Sometime before
I’m late! This can’t be happening to me! The supermarket promotional sale starts in ten minutes, and I am going to be late for it. I looked down at the grocery shopping list that my granny had carefully prepared and sighed. If I miss the sale and they run out of stuff, we’re not going to be able to get everything within our budget.
I have to hurry. I ran at full speed along the sidewalk leading to the supermarket. I dodged around people, couples holding hands, children on their tricycles, an uncle walking his dog, and so many more. However, I had to come to a sudden halt when I almost ran into a slightly plump old man. He must be in his fifties and was dressed in fine clothes like he was from the big city. I mean, no one at his age dresses this well around here.
“I’m so sorry, sir. Did I run into you? Are you hurt?” I apologized and fired off my questions at him rapidly.
I think I stopped in time before running into him, but I had to ask to make sure. He seemed shocked to see me apologizing profusely to him. However, in the next instant, he started smiling at me.
“I’m fine, young miss. There’s no need for you to worry. I may look old and a little on the fat side, but I assure you that I am strong and very fit!” the old man replied in a booming voice before laughing loudly.
“Oh…I’m so glad to hear it. Well, then…” I replied happily as I smiled back at him. However, I was very aware of the fact that I was running late. I couldn’t stand here and chat with him forever even if I wanted to.
“Wait, miss!” the old man called out to me as I turned to leave.