Del Ponte’s Bakery, Bradley Beach. July, 2019. Paul Goldfinger photograph. ©

By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger

Scene:  Morning at the Del Ponte’s Bakery in B. Beach. We wanted some coffee cake to go.   There was a small line when we arrived.  Eileen got on the queue while I stayed back, observing the activity.  In front of me was a young man waiting his turn. He wore a backpack and white rimmed sunglasses.

Instead of eyes front, he kept repetitively turning to the left, looking out the window.  Del Ponte’s is located across from the BB train station. Before I struck up a conversation with the man, a woman walked in and stood behind me.

Me (to him:)  What are you looking for?

He: I’m looking for the train.

Me:  Oh.  I thought you were looking for a certain pastry.

He:   No, it’s just drinks.  (The man was clutching two bottles of ice tea, and he seemed nervous about missing the train.)   I have to meet my brother in New York.  He’s leaving for Indiana, and I want to say good bye.

Me:  Oh. (I’m feeling nervous for him.)

He:  He’s going to Notre Dame for graduate school.

She  (the woman who was in line, but eavesdropping on our conversation):    Why don’t you get going now and I’ll get the drinks.

He: Thanks, but I’ll pay. (At that point he puts money on the counter and then runs out the door, across the street and through the park to the train station–he made it.)

Me:  (to the woman) That was so gracious of you…..(She smiled)

BILLY SWAN  “I Can Help.”