As I Wait in Line (A Short Story)

As I Wait in Line

This boy holds a candy bar.

If you can say the word, you can have it, his mother says.

The boy looks to me, his face contorted by injustice. He brings the prize close and tries: Slicks. Sleakers. Sleams. He stops, eyes pleading with me--afraid he looks dumb.

I do not cheat, but smile.

What is the second letter? I ask.

N.

What sound does it make?

"In."

Okay, put it behind the S.

All his might and concentration accompany the second attempt: Ssss. Ssnnn. Sssnnnniiii. Snickers? Eyes back for approval.

Exactly. Good job. That's right.

His mother laughs, watching him admire the trophy.

He beams. I want to see if they have M&M's.