hello @virabee, this feels more like a creative non-fiction than a fiction story. There is nothing wrong with that but we ask because it affects how a curator reads your story. Is this piece based on a true story or is it fiction as tagged?

Some synchronicity blended with difference is good for relationships. It makes them interesting. Your piece doesn't really introduce any conflict, aside from your MC's concerns as to whether she and Carmen will have anything in common. You may wish to read the following resource in The Ink Well which provides some guidance on handling conflict in stories and therefore creating a stronger arc.

Adding conflict

There is a host of resources available which can hep you to grow as a writer in The Ink Well.

Catalogue of fiction writing tips

There was also a leap from the two girls talking about their interest in flowers from different perspectives, to this: "To my surprise, I found that despite having distinct interests, both of us shared a mutual passion for helping others." - there was nothing shared in the story to this point that suggested that either shared a passion for helping others, and nothing added after this to support the statement. It felt a little oddly placed as a result. Your story needs a little more development so that we have a greater understanding of the characters - we want to see them and feel their emotions, and not only be told about them. A slightly longer piece would have allowed you to flesh some of these things out.

Please do remember to support at least two other stories in The Ink Well for each one that you submit and ensure that you drop a link to your post on the relevant weekly prompt post.

Thank you for writing in The Ink Well.