Page 5 of Bella and Her Beast
“That’s a pretty necklace, ma’am.”
“Thank you. This was a gift from my grandmother. She always told me to wear it to protect me from those who wish to do me harm.”
“I wish I had one. So the boys would stop being mean to me because I rather read than play.”
Hearing that breaks my heart. While I don’t have another necklace to give her, I do have a bracelet I picked up at the fashion store that I think she would enjoy. I reach into my purse and pull it from its plastic, protective sleeve.
“Well, here. You can have this. It will protect you from mean words that others may hurl at you.” I place the bracelet on her wrist and she returns to me the biggest smile with her two front teeth missing. Being able to make a difference to a child always brings me joy.
I complete the transaction, and she goes to her teacher proudly showing off her bracelet of protection.
“That was sweet of you,” Joy says.
“I know how it feels to be different. That was just my way of letting her know that everything will be okay.”
“Is that why Gigi gave you that necklace?”
“No. She gave me this on my sixteenth birthday.”
“You never told me why she said it is for protection.”
“Well, it’s an heirloom and each woman before me wore it and nothing bad ever happened to them. And if that woman was to have a child, the necklace would go to her. So mommy had me, gave it back to Gigi and then gave it to me.”
“Have you ever taken it off?”
“Only when bathing.”
“So, try it.”
“Try what, Joy?”
“Take off the necklace now and put it in your purse. Don’t wear it for a week and if nothing happens, then it would be just hearsay and a fancy heirloom.”
“And if something does happen?”
“Then I’ll work your shift for two weeks.”
I’m reluctant to take her bet, but she has a point. I know that it may be a bunch of hooey, but I’ve never tested the theory or boundaries. I roll my eyes and shake her hand. “Deal.”
She stands to her feet and unclasps my jewel. The weight of the charm falls in between my breasts and I turn away from the children to fish it out; only to find a pair of eyes engaged in my actions.
“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize that anyone would be standing on this side,” I sheepishly speak.
“I, uh, decided to take you up on your offer.”
I’m so distracted by my bauble, I lose his speak in translation. “I’m sorry what offer?”
“To check out the books.” He uses his hands to direct my attention to the four books in front of him.
“Oh, right. Sure. Let me have your library card, please.” I scan the identification and verify his information.
“You haven’t checked out any books in a while. Is the information on file still correct, Mr. Devereaux?”
“Yes. Nothing has changed, except my age.” He giggles and turns his head away when I smile at his attempt at humor.
“So, when can I read the stuff you’re working on?”
“Huh?” he replies.
