Dearest - truly flung out of space

31 - Reunion

The alarm clock wakes me up as I realize that it is the last day of the workshop. I haven't even thought about that at all. I quickly gather all my stuff and pack my bag. The classes will start at 9 AM today and will only take until 1 PM. I've already checked the trains and found one that will take off at 3 PM. That gives me around two hours of trying to find the perfect gift for Carol and Amelia.

As the last class starts, everyone seems to be quite sad about it. Thinking about it, I have to say I'm too. I've learned to appreciate the things I've learned during the past two weeks. Carol has made the right decision to sign me up for this again. Even though I was incredibly mad at her for making this decision and pushing me to this, I'm happy she did. I would have never been able to pull through with this if I would have done it by myself.

The last classes of the workshop go by slowly. Even though I haven't formed any form of connection with any of the other participants, the last class is quite emotional since we are asked to reflect on our experiences. It's very interesting to hear about the experiences of all the others and I am amazed at the impact of poetry on the minds and feelings of people.

At 1 PM sharp, everything is over and I get my suitcase. A very kind girl offers to take me to the shopping mall with her car. I happily accept her offer. The car ride is quiet but comfortable. While driving, I already think about a possible gift for my favorite blonde.

After dropping me off at the mall, I strive through the hallways and stop at a jewelry shop that advertises engraved bracelets. They are definitely not cheap. 150$ for one of them. I take a deep breath and enter the store. The cashier welcomes me with a very kind smile. While I look at the different options, I feel my throat get tighter and tighter. In no way, do I have enough money to pay for two of them. My mood drops and drops even further and I almost turn around to leave the store.

"Young lady, please, wait!" the cashier says and follows me to the exit before continuing, "I can tell you're interested in these bracelets, aren't you?"
"Yeah. But I can't afford them. I thought about getting one for my girlfriend as a present," I admit with shame. I hate that I can't buy something so special for Carol. She gives me everything I can think of and I can't even give her something so "simple".
"Please, come back. Let's have a talk. I'm sure we can do something about it," he smiles and leads me back to the consultation area. He brings me a cup of tea and then he starts to explain.
"I can understand that our offer is quite intense in the price range but we only offer premium quality. Our jewelry is handmade. Everything is made for perfection. But, I can understand that the price is daunting. However, I'm sure we can find a solution and get you a great deal. Why don't you tell me what you've been thinking off and then we can see how we adjust the price. Would that be something you'd be interested in?" he asks. He seems to understand my situation and he's determined to find a way to get me this bracelet.

It takes me around 20 minutes to finish picking out everything I want. At the end, I decide on a simple golden bracelet with the word "Dearest" engraved in a cursive font. I'm sure that a simple yet elegant design will be perfect for Carol.
"Alright. This would be 150$ for the bracelet but I'm sure you don't have that much money. How much money can you spend?" he asks and I shrug my shoulders.
"I don't know.. I have 100$," I whisper and take my bag.
"I can give you two for 100$," he states and reaches out his hand.
"What?" I ask in disbelief.
"Two bracelets for 100$. For you and your girlfriend. Our jewelry might be expensive but it is not unavailable. Deal?" he asks with a smile.
I can't believe what I'm hearing."Yes, Yes. Thank you so much!" I smile and take out my wallet. The cashier smiles at me.
"How much time do you have? Engraving the bracelets takes around 45 minutes," he explains and I nod.
"I have to catch a train at 3 PM but other than that, I have nothing planned," I answer, suddenly feeling a lot better.
"Why don't you have a coffee and I'll meet you here in 45 minutes?" he suggests and I nod. Shortly after, I leave his store.