My Word-of-the-Day Challenge

Directions: Use the Word of the Day from Merriam-Webster.com from the month of August in a scene; each day’s post must be a continuation of the previous day’s post.

Word count limit: 150 words

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August 20, 2021, Merriam-Webster Word of the Day: aghast (adj.)

Definition:

: struck with terror, amazement, or horror : shocked and upset

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Squinting in the morning sun, Bjorn shut the driver’s side door of his police issued truck. His duties for the day included personally disseminating upcoming meeting information to Jubar members of the Community Involvement Committee. 

With a fat envelope in hand, he walked toward his first stop—a health food store with a green roof.

Upon entering, soothing aromas greeted Bjorn as he inquired at the customer service counter about meeting the owner who, as a Class 2 Jubar, represented Jubar small business owners at committee meetings, and appeared instantly. The owner had expressive black eyes, inky hair, and a friendly demeanor. 

“Good morning!” The man shook Bjorn’s hand. “I’m Odo Lan. I understand you’re handing out meeting info.” Accepting the envelope, Mr. Lan smiled too brightly. “Wow, no Sergeant Glassman, huh?” 

“I’m his replacement, Sergeant Rackham.” Bjorn offered a business card. “If—.” 

The blood had left Mr. Lan’s aghast face. 

word count: 150