“A Good Year”
Ana the cashier quickly rang up and bagged the assortment of cookies and chips. “Your total is $18.80.”
Samuel looked up from his wallet. “1880? That was a good year.”
“That was a bit before my time.” She then smiled as if she were part of the joke. Samuel chuckled and tapped his card.
Handing him the receipt Ana said, “Have a good night.”
“You as well.”
She then turned to the next woman in line.
Samuel walked out into the cool night with his snacks. 1880, he thought. He and Beatrice married that summer. A fever took her and the baby the following spring, but that year they were happy. Unlocking his car he said, “Yes, 1880 was a good year.”