Shaking, I checked my backpack and pockets, but nothing was missing.
“Why in the world would he do that?” asked one of my friends. “What purpose did it serve?”
I shrugged. “Search me.”
***
Later, I was working at my parents’ antique store. Sitting on a tall stool in the back with a view of the aisles, I did homework. At one point, I glanced up, and couldn’t believe it: there he was, the guy who’d knocked me over! Hiding from him, I saw him pocket something.
After a pair of elderly ladies left and he and I were alone, I triggered the front door’s automatic lock. I considered calling the police, but decided not to yet. But, should he try anything, this time I was confident that I’d lay him out with my Krav Maga moves.
Trying the door, he found it locked.
“Ha!” I yelled. “Got you!”
He turned, and his eyes widened. “Frankie?!”
I shook my head. “My name’s Francine. And only I know how to unlock that door.”
His mouth fell open. “Oh, no! I…have to leave within three minutes, or…”
I sat cross-legged on the floor. “Then I guess you’d better start talking. Why’d you jump me? What’d you just steal? This is my family’s store, you know. Are you targeting us? I should call the police on you. I might!”
“Oh…fine.” He sighed. “Normally, I’d prefer to ease you into this.” He paced, talking fast. “Thirty-five years in the future, I’m one of a select handful of operatives permitted to time travel for particular missions to subtly realign our present day. In that future, you’re a paraplegic.”
I gasped. “What?!”
“You would’ve been hit by a school bus if I hadn’t tackled you,” he said.
My mind spun. “I’m your mission?”
He shook his head. “I did my mission earlier. But, seeing as I’m here, I figured I could do a few side-errands. You see, I’m in love with future-you. You’re kind to everyone, all the time. I want a future with you…and to do something nice for you.”
Looking into his eyes, I believed him.
From his pocket, he produced a brass pocket watch. “This is what I took, for sentimental value. It was my great-great-grandfather’s. I honestly didn’t know this was your family’s store. Here, take it.”
I quickly unlocked the door. “Keep it! Run! Get back to when you’re from!”
“Thank you!” His eyes filled with tears, but he grinned. “See you again in time…Frankie.”
Then he was gone.