14,9 WHEN WE WERE YOUNG

ELIZABETH’S POV

“As I walked into the cozy jewelry shop on Main Street, I browsed the various displays of sparkling gemstones and shining metals. I had been searching for the perfect gift for my husband Manuel’s birthday, which was just around the corner, and I had finally found it – a stunning diamond watch with intricate details and sleek lines.

Approaching the counter, I couldn’t help but notice the friendly smile of the shopkeeper, who greeted me warmly. ‘How can I help you today?‘ he asked, eyeing the watch in my hand.

‘I’m looking for a special gift for my husband,‘ I replied, feeling a little nervous about the high price tag of the watch. ‘This one caught my eye,‘ I said, holding up the watch for the shopkeeper to see.

The shopkeeper’s eyes widened as he took in the beauty of the watch. ‘Ah, yes. This is quite an impressive timepiece,‘ he said. ‘It’s definitely worth every penny.‘

I nodded eagerly, hoping that the shopkeeper would give me the best deal possible. ‘So, how much does it cost?‘ I asked, trying to hide my excitement.

The shopkeeper smiled kindly at me. ‘Well, this particular model is quite rare and valuable, so it comes with a bit of a hefty price tag. It’s $5000.‘

My eyes widened in surprise, but I tried not to show any disappointment. I knew that $5000 was a lot to spend on a watch, but I also knew that Manuel deserved something truly special for his birthday. ‘Is there anything you can do to make it more affordable?‘ I asked, crossing my fingers behind my back.

The shopkeeper chuckled sympathetically. ‘I understand that $5000 might be out of some people’s budget, but unfortunately, we can’t lower the price too much without compromising the quality of the watch. However, I could offer you a discount.‘

‘I understand,‘ I said, trying to hide my disappointment. ‘Is there anything else you can recommend that might be more affordable?‘

The shopkeeper nodded sympathetically. ‘Well, actually, we do have some other options that might fit your budget. Let me show you something.‘ He gestured for me to follow him and led me to a display case in the back of the store.

Inside the case were several beautiful watches with simpler designs but still high- quality materials. ‘These are all great options,‘ he said, holding up one of the watches. ‘They’re not as expensive as the diamond watch you saw earlier, but

lot of style and

one for Manuel. I was about to make my decision when I heard a

man said, approaching us from the back of the store. ‘Are you looking for something special for your husband’s birthday?

eyes and a kind smile. I felt

am the owner of this shop,‘ he said. ‘And I

eyes lighting up with hope. ‘What do you have in

smiled mischievously. ‘Well, I might have a

me to a small room at the back of

what kind of surprise he had in store for me. As we entered the small room, I saw a beautiful watch

the thing for your husband’s birthday.‘ He rummaged through a nearby cabinet and produced a stunning silver watch with delicate filigree and sparkling gemstones.

in delight as the shop owner placed it on a tray and handed it to me.‘ This is beautiful!‘ I exclaimed. ‘My husband

he said. ‘And the best part is, it’s only $200. Much more affordable than the diamond watch you were looking at earlier.‘

is incredible!‘ I reached out

like it,‘ he said. ‘Now, go enjoy this lovely watch and make sure to give your

owner, feeling grateful for his kindness and generosity. Thank you so much!‘ I said, hugging him tightly. “This

be to find the perfect gift for someone special. You go

me.‘

out of the store,

sense of peace wash over me. It

grateful

birthday. I wanted to get him a present, and all of those things happened. I was trying

Janice was the only one sitting in front of me. I widened my eyes incontinently. “Where’s

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