THE VALENTINE
Beth Ann paused in front of The Olde Book Shoppe. The display of antique valentines caught her eye. She found them so lovely, she decided to go in for a closer look before catching her train home to Arlington Heights. She smiled as the little bell above the shop door tinkled its welcome. It reminded her of bygone days when friendly mom and pop stores were everywhere. The smell of old books, dust, and old wood engulfed her as she stepped farther into the shop. It was an unexpected aroma but, surprisingly, a welcomed one. She paused when she heard someone shuffling across floorboards in a back room. A gentle voice welcomed her before she saw who it was. “Good afternoon, my dear. May I help you?” She turned and saw an elderly man peering at her over gold-rimmed glasses perched on the end of his nose. His crystal blue eyes and friendly smile made her feel welcomed. “I saw those lovely old Valentines in the front window. I thought I’d come in and browse before catching m...