...my shoe story...

She scans the shelves. Once. Twice. Strokes a few old friends, smiles at their shiny neighbors. She keeps walking, hand trailing over tough boots, strappy sandals and practical flats. She’s looking for something else. Something… amazing. Sighing, she turns. Stops. Gasps. Making sure she’s not drawing an unwanted attention, she slowly walks over. Picks it up. It’s more fabulous up close and personal, if that’s at all possible. A sales attendant senses her, comes over and guides her to a seat. A small nod and a whispered size is all she can manage. She puts down her handbag and gently removes her much loved but oft worn trusty heels. Breathes in, then out. The attendant is back. She gently opens the lid, and then removes the soft tissue paper. First the left, then right shoe, placed carefully on the seat next to her. She moves away, giving her space and time. She picks up the shoes and slowly slips it on. Perfect. She flexes her foot and beams. The other foot is next, that too a perfect fit. She suppresses a giggle, puts her hands on her knees and gazes down. She gets to her feet and walks to the mirror. Her cheeks are flushed, her hair a touch fly away. She looks at her reflection, down at the shoes adorning her feet. These are it. Exactly what she didn’t know she needed and just has to have. She stands in front of the mirror for a little while longer, savoring this moment. She walks back to her seat and sits down, slipping off the shoes. The sales attendant comes back over, a satisfied smile on her face. This is what makes her job worthwhile, what she waits for each day. She brings them over to the counter, ensuring the tissue paper is once again wrapped around the shoes, the box closed properly. The transaction is completed and the box is slipped into a beautiful big bag, the ribbon handles placed in her hands. She thanks the assistant with a smile, and with the new shoes now officially hers, leaves the store.

Another satisfied customer, thinks the attendant. She smoothes down her skirt, and turns her attention back to the store, searching for the next girl whose wish she can grant.