Thanksgiving

In the style of O Henry as well as in my own theme of drama in 1,400 characters or less, I’ve written a Thanksgiving story that appears at my fiction site: http://twivelist.com .  I’ve posted it here as well.

—————————————————————————————————————————————————–

John found a $20 bill on the sidewalk.

Soon he was counting receipts from the day’s sales at a clock store. He rechecked his work. The register total was $20 more than the amount counted.

“How are we doing?” asked Shipley, the owner

“We’re $20 short,” said John.

“Figures, Jamison worked the register—tomorrow he’s fired.”

“Maybe Jamison entered an item twice by mistake,” offered John. But Shipley walked away.

He fumbled for the $20 in his pocket. Maybe he could save Jamison’s job? If he didn’t, he’d be plagued by why he hadn’t helped–Jamison’s wife had given birth a few months ago.  Besides, Thanksgiving was in two days.

John pulled out the bill, unaware Shipley was watching.

“Decided to give it back?”

“I found…”

“Don’t bother—you’re done.” Shipley grabbed the bill.

John passed the storefront where he had found the money. A sign in the window read: “Lost $20 bill today—please return.”

He went inside where an old man greeted him. John told his tale.

“Didn’t expect anyone to return the money, let alone after it was gone,” said the old man.

The next day John went to work for the old man. Although upset by being unfairly fired, he appreciated that he would be earning twice his previous salary.

Right before closing Jamison entered the store and handed John $20 and said, “Thanks.”

John handed the money to his new boss but he pushed it away and with a tear in his eye, said, “Happy Thanksgiving!”