This story also contains an excellent example of audience manipulation. Just as the name says. The instructor said the assignment was to teach us that the rising action requires much more time than the rest of the story. I, of course, had to try to prove her wrong. I think I was somewhat successful.
Astronauts prepare to take off.
May have been inspired by memories of the Challenger explosion, but by no means based on it. Reflection Contest entry. Just what the name says. One of my first stories. The first one to be read in front of class.