Abandoned

It took forever

We've been looking for a job for Emma for hours, but nobody's hiring. Then, it finally happened.

• • •

I walk up to a book store. I see a sign in the window. "Hiring," it said.

We walk in. A man greets us with a smile.

"How may I help you?" He asks. His name tag said Blake.

"Yes," I say, "You're hiring?"

"Yes," He smiles. "I've been needing some help around here lately.

"Well," I gesture towards Emma, "She's looking for a job."

"How old are you?" He asks Emma.

"Sixteen." Her voice cracks.

"What's your name?" He asks.

"Emma." She sighs.

"You're hired." He says enthusiastically.

"Really?" She looks pretty shocked.

"I really need the help." He laughs.

"When do I start?" She asks.

"Tomorrow." He smiles.

• • •

We walk out of the store.

"That went well." I giggle.

"I know right!" She laughs.

• • •

We walk up to Ava and the twins.

"Did you get a job?" Ava asks.

"Yes!" She giggles in excitement.

"Yay!" Ava, Liam, and Noah all say at once. I smile at their enthusiasm.

• • •

The next day

I'm at work, stocking the shelves. Suddenly, a woman approaches me.

"Hey, do you know where I could find the dish soap?" She asks.

"Sure," I say happily. I turn around, "They're on-"

Suddenly, I'm speechless.

The woman is my mother.