It’s one of those last day stories

Ralph wanted a typical day at the Best By Bakery. He told no one that the bakery was closing down forever today, after 26 years. Ralph was moving to Ohio and wouldn’t talk to these people again.

Ralph thought about doing it both ways. One option was the big sendoff, the tearful goodbyes and the tributes from the neighborhood. He also knew what came with that path.

Everyone would be unhappy. Ralph didn’t want the last time everyone came into his bakery to be a sad day. He wanted it to be a normal day.

As he always did at 10 AM every Sunday, Pete walked into the bakery with a smile inquiring about Ralph’s week. Pete always ordered a scone and a coffee. Pete was one of the reasons Ralph wanted a typical day at the bakery. In the beginning, Pete brought in his girlfriend Patty, who became his wife. Then Pete’s children arrived every week with him until they went off to college. A few weeks ago, the first grandchild visited the bakery.

In the last 26 years, Ralph had watched Pete’s whole life from behind the counter. He wanted Pete to have a good last day.

“Something feels different today,” Pete said at the counter. “I know I always get a scone with my coffee, but can I try the pumpkin bread today?”

The question shook Ralph. It was March. Almost no one ordered the pumpkin bread in March. Ralph imagined Pete coming to the bakery next Sunday and seeing the closed sign. Should Ralph tell Pete?

“You feelin’ ok?” Ralph finally asked, handing him his order.

“I just feel a change. Maybe it’s spring,” Pete said with a wave as he walked towards the door.

“Hey, Pete,” Ralph yelled, and Pete turned back. They looked at each other for a moment—for the last time.

“Take a scone too,” Ralph said, and he held out the bag.