Page 27 - The Last Gift
P. 27

“Hello, young lady. You know what? I usually
have something in my pocket for good little
children.”

      He reached in his pocket and pulled out a
Tootsie Roll, holding it out toward her. She
looked up at her mother. Rachel nodded her
permission, so Emily moved slightly toward him.
He continued to speak softly. “I always wanted a
pretty little daughter of my own. I have five
sons, but never got a girl.”

      She inched slowly, cautiously toward him.
Rachel was afraid Emily would grab the Tootsie
Roll and then scamper back, but Jacob
encouraged her with his calm voice and steady
gaze. As she took the candy from him, his kind
smile seemed to take away her timidness. She
looked directly at him and spoke calmly. “You

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