Time Is The Key To Everything

Chapter 30: Epilogue

The woman in charge of the store was surprised when the young couple came inside, instead of walking past like most people did. She was even more surprised when she saw what the man was wheeling in front of him.

"Excuse me," he said when they reached her, "you take donations here, don't you?"

She nodded. "Yes. We take gently used clothing, furniture, and other assortment of goods. All donations go to those victimized by the war."

"Do you take wheelchairs?"

"It depends on their condition, but yes we do. How long have you had this one?"

"About six years, but I only used it for two. It's just been sitting around the house. I was going to throw it out until my wife suggested that we bring it here."

The woman next to him, whom the store owner assumed was his wife, smiled. "I've seen your sign so many times when I come into town and I've been meaning to come in here, but haven't had the chance until now."

"So what do you think?" The man asked. "Will you be able to take it?"

The store owner gave the wheelchair a quick check over. It was in excellent shape. It had been nearly cleaned and polished, and even though the model was outdated, it was practically brand new.

"Yes, I do believe I will." she smiled. "This is wonderful. I just had another woman come in this morning asking if we had any available wheelchairs. Her husband was crippled from the war and has been unable to get around since. Thank you so much."

"It's the least we can do." the woman said. "May I ask you something?" The store owner nodded. "Is it just you that works here?"

"Yes. Monday through Saturday and Sunday mornings."

"Well I was just wondering if you were looking for any extra help."

Once more, the store owner was surprised. She was a very hardworking woman and was reluctant to ask for any sort of assistance, but it was true that it was difficult to run such a store by herself.

The woman continued, "I've been looking for a way to get involved in the post-war movement and I really like what you are doing here. I personally know how devastating the war was to some families." She reached over to lace her fingers with her husband's and even though the store owner was tempted to ask, she kept her questions to herself.

"Even if it's just a few hours a day, I would be glad to help."

"Can I have your name, Ma'am?"

"Cassidy Lee."

"Mrs. Lee, I very much appreciate your offer. If you can come in tomorrow morning—around nine or so—we can talk more then."

Cassidy smiled. "Thank you so much."

"No, thank you."

"That was unexpected." Paul said after they left the store. "I didn't know you wanted a job."

Cassidy shrugged, "I didn't know either. It was a spur of the moment decision. But I'm really excited about it now. Let's stop over at the post office before we go home. I'm expecting a letter from James."

When they arrived, Cassidy was surprised to find that not only did she have a letter from James, but a package as well. There was also a letter from Ama and another plain letter with no return address.

"I wonder who this could be from." Cassidy said as she glanced at the last letter when they arrived home. Paul held open the gate to the house for her and they both made their way inside.

Cassidy put the package and James' and Ama's letters on the kitchen table before opening the mysterious letter.

"It's a postcard." she said.