Marion Heights, August 1952

Agnes smiled when Lover dropper her off and said he'd be around to pick her up at closing time. She'd heard that before. He laughed when Agnes took up the wagon and guaranteed she wouldn't need it.
     It was late August. The days were dry and warm. Around 4 cool winds came as the Sun lowered. At 5 Agnes stopped working and gathered up groceries to take home.
     The sky spread callous orange above the store's closing. Agnes stood out front waiting for Lover. The owner wished Agnes good evening and walked to his house across the street. She bowed her head a little and told him to have a nice evening.
     Lover was across town at the Tavern on his 5th round. Life's good when others buy long as he keeps singing "Old Shep".
     Agnes took her wagon down the road home. Cool wind stroked her graying black hair back. She was 35 with a youthful face, her body strong. Home's only 2 more miles, no better weather for a long walk.
     When Mr. Bell slowed to a stop beside Agnes and offered a ride, she turned her head, laughed, and said the exercise kept her young.
     Dusk gave to night as Agnes pulled her wagon into the door. Her sister had the kids. Lover wasn't home.