A missing wallet & a gracious ‘finder’.

“MOM!”  I heard, the word a protracted, painful yowl.

“What’s wrong?” I asked, my heart pounding.  I pictured the worst —  car wreck?  ER? What?

“I left my wallet at the nail salon!”

It was nine o’clock.  The night before she was to fly to San Francisco.  Her wallet, her ID, her credit card — all locked in the shop.

She drove back to the place, but it was dark.  Called the Property Manager,  but no answer.  Called the shop.  Closed.

I had her passport, I got cash, and gave her my own credit card with a letter of authorization.

Jamie went on the trip, but we kept calling The Nail Shop Los Angeles.  I promised a reward.

The place was closed for the Fourth.

Someone answered a day later.

Susie the owner had spotted the pink wallet.  She had it.  I could come get it anytime.

When I walked in — picked up the treasure — and offered a $20 bill — Susie wouldn’t take it.

She smiled and told me I was pretty.

And I showed her my nails and promised I’ll go back  to thank her – again.

***