The Magic Mala: A Story That Changes Lives by Bob Olson

Author:Bob Olson [Olson, Bob]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Building Bridges Press
Published: 2017-05-03T07:00:00+00:00

DAVE ARRIVED to pick up Mary for her lunch break. He walked into Jankowitz Jewelers and was immediately surprised at how elegant it appeared inside. It was an unexpected contrast to the unadorned brick exterior.

A lush Oriental rug lay over an oak floor in the customer area. Pairs of plush upholstered chairs waited in the far corners opposite the counters. The display cases were framed in cherry wood that had been polished to perfection, and the glass above the jewelry was spotless, covered only with crystal bowls filled with pink foil-covered chocolates that beckoned to be eaten.

Mary stood behind the counter waiting on a customer. “You were here last week with your niece, right? Eva helped you.”

The woman smiled. “Yes. I live in New York City but visit my sister every summer. My niece and I come here every year to add a charm to her bracelet. I think this was her seventh. This year she chose a tennis racket charm. She recently won a tournament.”

“Did you get to watch the winning match?” asked Mary.

“I did. It was a nail-biter. I’m very proud of her.”

“I’ll bet you are. And this pearl necklace, is this for you?”

“Yes. I’m being presented with an award back home this fall, and I like to buy my jewelry here when I can.”

“An award, huh?”

“Yes, it’s no big deal, but it gives me a reason to dress up.”

Mary laughed softly. “Well, congratulations.”

“Thank you. I think I’ll go with this necklace here.” The woman pointed to one of the necklaces Mary had laid out on the display case.

Mary pulled a pair of earrings from the case. “I’ll tell you what … if you’d like to get these matching earrings, I can give you twenty percent off their price.”

The woman hesitated in thought.

Mary added, “The necklace and earrings came in together last week. Can you see how the color differs from these pearls over here? It might be difficult to match the set later. And, besides, you should treat yourself. This sounds like a special occasion.”

The woman waved her hand. “Oh, wrap them both up. You’re right; I deserve it.”

Mary placed the necklace and earrings in boxes, processed the sale, and handed the woman her bag of items. “Thank you, Ms. Horowitz. Have fun at the awards ceremony.”

“I will, dear. Thanks for your assistance.”

As the woman left the store, Dave took notice. He walked up to Mary and said while still watching the woman walk out the door, “Wow! Who is that?”

Mary giggled. “That’s Ruth Horowitz. Eva told me last week when she was in with her niece that she’s been coming here for years.”

“She’s a classy lady,” said Dave. “Any idea what her award is for?”

“No, she didn’t seem anxious to say, and I didn’t want to pry.” Mary walked around the counter and gave Dave a hug. “Thanks for coming.”

“Of course, sweetheart. What a beautiful store. Give me the tour.”

Mary proudly escorted Dave around the store while he ate some of the pink-foiled chocolates. Since Mary had been with Robby for fifteen years, Dave was like a father to her.

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