Almost Perfect

A wave of disappointment washed over her as she joined in the applause.

She had hoped, yes - she felt guilty admitting it to herself. When the man with the funny tie came on stage to announce the winner, she had expected to hear her name. It felt unfair. She had worked so very hard - and all she had ended up with was disappointment, coupled with a twinge of jealousy, every time she saw the blonde haired guy who had won.

Well, this should teach you not to underestimate others, she told herself, as she slowly trudged towards the exit. You just didn't work hard enough.

Suddenly, she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned around and found herself face-to-face with a middle-aged man smartly dressed in a brown suit.

"You are participant number 6, aren't you?"

Surprised, she said,"Yes, sir."

"Well, young lady, I was one of the judges for the competition."

As she remained silent, he continued,"As a matter of fact, your entry was a country mile better than any other. The other judges were pretty much impressed with it, too. Frankly, it was the best."

"But __", she didn't understand what he was saying,"But, then__"

He smiled sadly.

"Your entry," he hesitated," was disqualified. I'm afraid it had only 99 words. I thought you should know."

She found her voice at last, and whispered," Thank you, sir."

***

A single word...

***