In the heart of a bustling town, where the sound of clattering shoes met the scent of fresh pastries, stood a quaint pharmacy. Behind the counter, Mary, a slender young woman with bewitching blue eyes and light brown hair, filled prescriptions and offered advice with a bright smile. Her charm was magnetic, drawing in customers like moths to a flame. Each day, she would greet the regulars, her laughter echoing through the aisles.
One afternoon, as Mary arranged the shelves, she noticed a familiar figure entering the pharmacy. Yoseph, a mature man with salt-and-pepper hair and an air of quiet confidence, stepped inside. His presence was almost commanding, though softened by his warm demeanor. He often visited for his medication, exchanging pleasantries with Mary, who enjoyed their banter.
“Hey there, Mary,” he said, leaning casually against the counter. “How’s the world treating you today?”
“Better now that you’re here, Yoseph,” she replied, a playful glint in her eyes. “But tell me, do you ever get tired of being so… old?”
Yoseph’s brow furrowed for a moment, taken aback by her sudden jab. “Old? I prefer ‘experienced,’” he retorted with a smile, masking any hint of insecurity. “Besides, age is just a number, right?”
Mary leaned closer, her voice teasing. “Sure, but for some of us, it’s a little more than just a number. You’re practically my dad’s age!”
Yoseph chuckled, the laughter easing the tension. “And how old do you think I am, Mary?”
“Old enough to know better,” she quipped, her tone light but her eyes searching for a reaction. She wanted to see if he would crumble under the weight of her words or rise to the challenge. Would he let her playful jab get to him?
Instead of faltering, Yoseph took a step back and smiled wider. “Well, I guess I have a lot of wisdom to share then. Want me to tell you my secrets?”
“I’d rather hear how you got those snow-white teeth,” Mary shot back, her laughter ringing through the pharmacy. There was an undeniable chemistry, a playful tension that hung in the air.
As the days passed, Mary and Yoseph continued their banter, each interaction layered with a mix of flirtation and challenge. However, unbeknownst to Mary, Yoseph had recently crossed paths with someone else Samson, a bald-headed man with a hunched back, who worked at a nearby printing enterprise. Samson was a gentle giant, known for his kind heart and boundless generosity, though he often felt overshadowed by others.
One day, Samson decided to visit the pharmacy to pick up some vitamins. As he entered, he noticed Mary at the counter, her blue eyes sparkling as she interacted with Yoseph. A pang of jealousy shot through him, but he quickly dismissed it. He was drawn to Mary’s vibrant spirit, and he wanted to know her better.
“Hi, Mary!” Samson said his voice warm but tinged with shyness. “I, uh, just need some vitamins. You know, for health!”
Mary turned, her smile brightening the room. “Samson! You’re just in time. I was about to tell Yoseph how to maintain his youthful glow. Care to join in?”
“Of course!” Samson replied, trying to sound enthusiastic despite his nerves. As they exchanged playful banter, he couldn’t help but admire Mary’s effortless charm.
Later that week, Mary found herself at the local coffee shop, where she often went to unwind after work. To her surprise, she spotted Samson sitting alone, a stack of printing proofs spread out on the table. Gathering her courage, she approached him.
“Mind if I join you?” she asked her voice light.
“Not at all,” Samson replied, a shy smile crossing his face. “I could use some company.”
As they talked, the initial awkwardness faded. Samson shared stories about his work, his passion for printing, and his love for the art of creating. Mary listened intently, captivated by his enthusiasm and sincerity. In contrast to the playful banter she had with Yoseph, her conversations with Samson felt deeper, more meaningful.
Days turned into weeks, and their friendship blossomed. Samson found himself looking forward to each encounter, and Mary discovered a sense of comfort in his presence. He was different from Yoseph more grounded, more real. Yet, there was still a part of her that felt drawn to the thrill of her playful exchanges with the older man.
One afternoon, while restocking shelves at the pharmacy, Mary overheard a conversation between Yoseph and a customer. They were discussing relationships and dating, and she couldn’t help but eavesdrop.
“I think confidence is key,” Yoseph said. “Age shouldn’t matter if you’re secure in who you are.”
Mary felt a twinge of guilt. She had tested Yoseph’s confidence with her teasing, but perhaps he was right. It wasn’t about age; it was about how one carried themselves.
Later that day, as she closed the pharmacy, she caught sight of Samson outside, waiting for her. “Hey, Mary! Want to grab a bite?” he asked, his eyes hopeful.
“Sure! I’d love to,” she replied, her heart fluttering. As they walked to a nearby diner, the conversation flowed effortlessly. They shared stories, laughter, and a sense of connection that felt rare and precious.
As they settled into a booth, Mary found herself gazing at Samson, studying the way his eyes lit up when he spoke. It was in that moment she realized how much she admired him not just for his kindness, but for his authenticity.
“Samson, can I ask you something?” she ventured, her tone serious.
“Anything,” he replied, leaning closer.
“Do you think age really matters in a relationship?” she asked, her heart racing.
Samson paused, considering her question. “I think it’s all about how you connect with someone. If you feel a spark, age is just a detail.”
Mary smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her. “You’re right. I’ve been so caught up in my own insecurities about it.”
“Don’t let that hold you back,” Samson said gently. “You deserve to be happy, no matter what anyone else thinks.”
His words resonated deeply with her. In that moment, she felt a shift within herself. Perhaps she had been too focused on age and societal expectations instead of what truly mattered connection and love.
As the weeks passed, Mary and Samson grew closer, their bond deepening with each shared experience. They explored the town together, attended local events, and enjoyed quiet evenings filled with laughter and conversation.
One evening, as they walked hand in hand under the stars, Mary turned to Samson. “You’ve really changed how I see things,” she confessed. “I didn’t realize how much I was holding back.”
Samson smiled softly. “I’m glad to hear that. I’ve enjoyed every moment with you.”
With a newfound sense of clarity, Mary leaned in and kissed him gently, a spark of magic igniting between them. It was a kiss that spoke volumes, solidifying their connection and marking the beginning of something beautiful.
Months later, in a cozy little church decorated with flowers and laughter, Mary and Samson stood before their friends and family, ready to tie the knot. As they exchanged vows, Mary felt a profound sense of joy. She had found love not in the thrill of age or the games of insecurity, but in the depth of connection and the strength of understanding.
As they walked down the aisle, hand in hand, Mary glanced back at Yoseph, who smiled warmly, his eyes filled with acceptance. He had taught her that confidence transcended age, and she had discovered it in the most unexpected place with Samson, her partner for life.
BY ALEM HAILU G/KRISTOS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 9 MAY 2025
