Grandfather's Pocket Watch by Robert Lee Frazier

Jack strolled down the same dirty back street he had walked seven times in the past four days, twice today alone. Stepping up to the plate-glass window he thought, Oh thank God, it wasn’t sold yet. Then stiffened as someone strolled by, they didn't turn and open the front door to the pawnshop, so Jack relaxed and continued staring thought the window at the silver pocket watch laid out in the display case.

Whispering he said, "I know it's the one." Jack stepped quickly into the shop. Two minutes later and twenty dollars poorer he was the owner of that watch.

"Even if it isn't my Grandfathers watch it looks just like it," He reasoned to himself trying hard to justify the expense he really couldn't afford.

Jack had it rough, first losing his job then his girlfriend and now was on the verge of being evicted from his apartment, but at that moment Jake was happy. He spoke to himself as he strolled, "Now maybe my luck will change?"

Returning to his apartment Jack reflected back on his Grandfather and the stories he had told. How he had come to this country with a single suit and his silver pocket watch and working his way up from an entry-level position, he became the top salesman for a large corporation.

Looking at the watch Jack thought, now that I have this, it's right to the top for me too.

Later that same day he made his way to the offices of Fuller, Barring and Tackle the company where his Grandfather had worked. He asked to speak to the President and when told he was not available wrote a quick note and left it with the receptionist.

 It read, my family has a long history with this company - I'll be working here in no time.

Stepping out into the bright sunshine, he had a doubt, then, while walking, a concern and finally a trouble.

“What am I doing? Am I deranged? I’m acting foolish on account of a pocket watch that happened to remind me of my Grandfather. It’s not like it’s going to help.” He said.

He turned to go back. He didn't see the fist that knocked him to the ground. Jack did notice the small caliber pistol that was thrust in his face and he definitely heard the command to hand over his wallet. Jack struggled back up onto his feet and tried to explain his financial position then he heard and felt the shot.

Looking at him in amazement his assailant turned to run. Thinking fast Jack reached out to grab the guy but was only able to grip the backpack he was wearing. They struggled; the shooter released the bag and fled. Jack stood panting. He gently probed for the bullet wound, instead pulled out the now broken pocket watch. He smiled, realizing he had moved the watch into his shirt pocket as he stepped out onto the street. Looking into the backpack, he was surprised to find fistfuls of cash. Jack then closed his eyes and softly said, “Thanks Grandfather.” 

Author bio: 

Robert Lee Frazier is a published author, poet, and essayist who lives in Hagerstown Maryland with his wife, four children, two in-laws, and a set of lazy pugs. Robert swears all of his stories are some-what true. You can follow his authorial trials and tribulations at www.robertleefrazier.com

 Look for Robert Lee Frazier's author interview coming up on Jan. 14th!