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Another Day...

  • Mary Ann De Lacerna
  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read


Image:  Unsplash
Image: Unsplash



I felt the best time would be the middle of the afternoon. The store wouldn't be as busy then.  I was right; not too many people crowded the aisles. I tried to relax and look casual, but at the same time, my eyes were scanning the landscape.      


The usual workers were on duty. I felt stressed that they recognized me. Now was not the time for friendly greetings. I grabbed a cart and started my quest. As I put things into it, my eyes darted around for cameras. Of course, I didn't see any; you never do.


I rounded the aisles back and forth, trying to decide my strategy for the day. I settled on my old stand-by. I'd fetch the items to be stolen first, stash them away, continue shopping for the items I intended to pay for, and coolly make my way to the checkout. I'd done it a million times before.      


At the register, I made small talk with the cashier. I liked her, and I knew she liked me. It alleviated my guilt and gave me a sense of security. Stealing was OK as long as I was polite to the hired help, right? As she finished ringing me up, bagging my goods, and accepting my payment, I breathed a sigh of relief.  Mission accomplished, case closed, and I'm out.    


I'd made it halfway down the street when I heard a loud, stern voice say, "Miss, Miss, Miss...". My heart sank, and I panicked as I raised both my hands in the air. The National Enquirer magazine I'd stashed under my arm fell to the concrete. I just knew I was going to jail. Logical excuses started flooding my mind. Slowly, I turned to face my future.      


"Here, Miss, you forgot your umbrella. It is supposed to rain later."             


My life of crime wasn't quite over yet.



Mary Ann de La Cerna
Mary Ann de La Cerna

Formerly in the Jewelry business, Mary Ann is a serious New Yorker who is as witty and whimsical as her essay.

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