Kindness Wins

Kindness Wins

“What’s that you got in your hand? Show me!” John’s mom demanded.

“I shoulda put it in pants pocket, then she would never have seen it,” he muttered.

“Tell me this instant where you got it. Did you steal it?”

“No, Mr. James at the corner store gave it to me.”

“Why would he do that? What you been doing over there?”

“I bin helping. I sweep the floors, neaten up the shelves and take out the garbage,” he told her.

“Be better if he paid you,” his mama announced.

“I’m on a trial, he’s gonna start paying me next week. He says I’m a good worker. The car is just a gift.”

“We’ll see about that!” His mama grabbed her purse, keys and John. They stormed out the door headed for the corner store.

Once they got there, his mama hauled him inside while she talked to Mr. James.

“Why, hello Mrs. Temple. Hello John, long time no see!”

“Listen mister, my John needs money to help me out, not toys!”

“I have hired him Missus, we even have an agreement.”

“My son is too young to sign a contract.”

“Not a contract, a gentleman’s agreement. When he works for me, he will get paid five dollars each time. A small gift of his choice now and then.

“He’s an excellent worker, polite to customers and thorough. A pleasure to have around.”

John’s mama looked stunned.

“Don’t worry missus, it’s just after school and Saturdays for now. I’m considering having him come six days a week in the summer though, with your permission of course.”

“I’m much obliged Mr. James. You sure you need him?”

“I thought I’d let him give out the frozen treats and scoop ice cream cones for the summer, so yes I do.”