148

Fern had her hands draped with heavy plastic grocery bags, but she was determined to burn extra calories this year.  A car was slowing to a stop for her in the crosswalk, and Fern saw it was Patty at the wheel.  Their eyes grabbed and stuck for just a moment before Patty dragged hers away and suddenly stepped on the gas.  Fern was forced to pull up short, her can-filled bags swinging and smile disappearing.