“I need new soles,” she announced, deducing a smile within his beard.
“I’m pleased to oblige, madam,” he responded, eyes twinkling.
After taking her shoes, he gave a paper stub denoting the work order.
“When will they be ready?” she asked, gazing at his outlandish hat and oversized belt buckle.
“In two days.”
On the promised date she returned. Receiving her shoes, she looked up to thank him but he was gone.
She thought she saw his likeness skipping down the sloping road, leaving a trail of golden coins.