Made in the shade

It was a crappy day.

too hot for sales.

no one on the sunny side

wanted bone and turquoise earrings.

The season was nearly over,

dead til after all the turkey

and pumpkin pie put the millions

in their masses flat on their asses.

One woman pawed

the merchandise

pinned on the black velvet

covered board.

Try it on he said.

looks nice with your eyes he lied.

Not that the necklace didn't.

it was just his standard line.

I'll let you have it for five.

I don't know, she said.

Make it four, he replied.

Okay, I'll take it.

Will you fasten it for me?

Sure, turn around.

She smelled like sandalwood

and oranges.

She felt his breath on the fine hairs
on the back of her neck and shuddered.

His fingers slipped

and the necklace

fell on the sidewalk.

Sorry. sorry.

they exclaimed together.

He picked up the necklace,

held his breath this time.

There. Pointed to a small mirror

mounted on his board.

What do you think?

It's nice, she said without looking

in the mirror and handed him a five.

He pushed her hand away.

No charge today.

For once he told the truth.

It really did match her sightless eyes.

Thanks she said and turned

and tapped her way to the shade.