(For example, for the letter A it was the 26th word on the list, for Z it was the 1st word on the list)
He rounded the corner and slowed in front of the former jewelry store. Sixty years ago, he had scrimped for a wedding ring. Forty years ago, he had bought her a new set with a beautiful diamond engagement ring for their 20th anniversary. Ten years ago, he returned to get an infinity ring for their 50th celebration.
He studied the new store now converted to a stained glass shop. The colorful bits of glass flashed sunlight back at him through the front window. He hesitated, then walked inside. The ancient bell over the door pealed out a welcome. The display cases now held different items but not much else had changed. The floor still creaked and the air still smelled of lemon oil.
A young man emerged from the back room, wiping his hands. “May I help you? I’m Gavin, the owner.”
“Oh, I’m just browsing. I used to buy from the jewelry store that was here.” He held out his hand, “Mr. Bradshaw.”
“By any chance, you wouldn’t happen to be Jacob Bradshaw, would you?”
“Yes. Why do you ask?”
“Hold on. I need to get something.” He returned with a package covered with tissue paper, setting it on the counter. “My grandfather commissioned this about five years ago. He said you would eventually stop by and I was to give it to you as a final gift from him.”
The old man hand shook as he unwrapped the gift. “Your grandfather, he owned the jewelry store?”
“He did. He left it to me with the provision the name would remain.”
Jacob thought he’d never seen anything so beautiful. A large stained glass box with the silhouette of a couple along with the words Until We Meet Again on the lid.
Jacob brushed away a tear. “For her ashes, thank you.”
Thank you.