LatinosUSA

The old man laid his thin arm across the cold, empty bed. Sometimes he could still smell the fresh scent of flowers in his dear departed wife’s shampoo. How he missed her terribly each day.

It was extremely hard for Jim Winthrop after Betty’s passing. But now his new part-time job at Memphis Kiddie Park gave him purpose. In fact, he even looked forward to waking up in the morning. Making sure his appearance was deserving when he worked at the amusement park. With his mechanical background and gentle demeanor, he was a definite asset. Management was pleased with his knowledge and willingness to fill any position in the children’s amusement park.

Jim enjoyed watching the kids and the excitement in their smiles and laughter as they rode the various kiddie rides. Planes, boats, carousel horses, and even a mini rollercoaster for those children who dared the hills and gullies of the ride.

Even though he had no children of his own, Jim carried the happiness inside him that overflowed within the kiddie park.

As Jim began his day by checking each ride, he noticed a strange man strolling about, eating a bag of popcorn. The park was not officially open, so he wondered how this person got in, and how he was able to buy a bag of popcorn.

Suddenly, a chill ran down his spine. Was this person up to no good? It wouldn’t be long before the gates were unlocked, and many children would be flooding in.

“Can I help you?” shouted Jim. The mystery man smiled as he chewed the mouthful of popcorn. Jim shuffled toward him.

“Just taking in the sights. Amazing park you have here. The kids must love it.” The middle-aged stranger shoved another handful into his mouth.

“The park doesn’t open for another hour, sir. I must ask you to leave. Liabilities and all.” Jim tried to straighten his arthritic spine. The pain soared into his head. He had to convince this stranger that his insistence was genuine.

Jim planted himself directly in the man’s path. “I’ll walk you out, sir.”However, the stranger continued to eat his popcorn.

“The name is Finis. It’s nice to meet you, Jim.” He held out his slim hand. Jim did not reciprocate.

“You need to leave the park, Mr. Finis.” Jim swallowed.

“Oh…it’s not Mr. Finis…just Finis.” He smiled.

“I gotta’ admit it’s different.” Jim scratched his head.

“Latin roots…finality…something of great significance coming to fruition. In other words, Jim, it means ‘end.’ It can’t get any simpler than that. Don’t you agree?”

“How do you know my name?” Jim shifted on his tired legs and swollen feet.

“It’s part of the job…to know your name.” Finished with the popcorn, he tossed the empty bag into the trash receptacle. He moved with ease. His blue jeans and black polo shirt fit snug against his lean physique. Jim guessed him to be in his early forties. This stranger would have no problem putting down an old man.

“And what job may that be, Finis?” Jim gnawed on his lower lip.

Unexpectedly, his heartbeat increased. A slight pain eased up his left arm, then disappeared as fast as it came.

“My job…well, let’s just say I help people to move on.” Finis shrugged his shoulders.

“Move on? From what or where?” Jim frowned.

“Hey Jim!” called a voice from behind.

Jim turned around. His supervisor, Harry Wilson, gave a slight wave before reaching him.

“Did you get a chance to check the motor on the carousel? Eddie thought he heard a squeaking noise yesterday.” Harry adjusted his cap.

“I will. I was just about to escort this…fellow out of the park.” Jim gestured behind him.

Harry leaned to the side. His eyebrows scrunched. “What fellow?”

Jim’s lips went taut. What was wrong with Harry? Did he not see they had an unwanted visitor?

It was then that Jim realized there were only the two of them. Finis was nowhere to be found. Jim swiveled back and forth.

“I’m telling you, Harry, the guy said his name was Finis. He had a bag of popcorn and was walking around the park. I told him it wasn’t open, and he needed to leave.” Jim rubbed his bristly chin.

“Well, I guess he took the hint and left. Anyway, I need you to take a gander at the carousel motor.” And with that said, Harry turned and left Jim alone.

“Nice, guy, Harry. His time is almost up, too,” said Finis. Jim turned slowly around to face the stranger once again.

“You were here the whole time?” whispered Jim. Finis gave a slight nod.

“Who are you, Finis? And what do you want with me?” The old man trembled.

Finis let out a sigh. A sad smile crept across his face. “I think you know, Jim. It’s time to move on.”

“I don’t…have a choice…do I?” A single tear slipped down the old man’s wrinkled cheek.

Jim glanced around at the empty amusement park once more. He loved working at the kiddie park. He would miss it for sure.

“Not with this, Jim. And…Betty’s waiting.” A huge smile spread across Jim’s aged face at the mention of his beloved wife.

“It’s time to go, Jim.” And then, without reservation, Jim and Finis sauntered out the Memphis Kiddie Park exit and disappeared into the swirling mist and bright sunshine.