Help

This was what she had always wanted to do.

Moving into the flat near the university was a good move from the point of view of making progress with her studies. The course itself was going well, she had always been interested in social welfare issues and wanted to get a better understanding of matters that impact on both the community and society in general, particularly for the aging population. Going for a bachelor degree in Social Science was what she had always dreamed of doing.

On the other hand, she really needed to get some sort of part-time work. She had literally lost count of the number of resumes she had sent out. Most of them getting no reply at all.

In desperation she phoned home.

Her father was saying, “Something part-time you say… well, I did see in the obituaries a while back that old man Barns passed away. I used to play golf with him soon after I retired. Do you remember him?”

“Only vaguely, why?” she asked.

“He owned that auto parts shop, not far from you, in the high street. I’ve met his wife a few times, nice old lady; probably worth a fortune now. Anyway, they never had children so I assume she’s taken it over. She might give you a job. It’s worth a try.”

“Wow! That would be great Dad! How do I get in touch?”

“OK. I’ll give you the number, but let me get in touch first. I ought to anyway, since I knew her husband. I’m pretty sure she’ll remember me. I’ll say you are looking for something and give you a bit of a plug; can’t do any harm.”

“Oh! Thank you so much.”

“Not a problem sweetie. Glad I could be of help. I’ll give her a call today and you can follow up tomorrow.”

“Will do, and thanks again. Bye.”

This could be just the break she needed. So handy. So close.

Time dragged; but she finally made the call the next day.

“Hello, Mrs Barns?”

“Yes. Who is this?”

“My father suggested that I give you a call.”

“Oh! Yes. He said you might be in touch. He said you were looking for something.”

“Yes, I am.”

“He told me you are a keen worker. Is that right?”

She hesitated, “Well, yes, of course.”

“Oh! Bless you my dear. You can start on Monday, if you like. Of course, I can’t afford to pay you. This is so kind of you to volunteer.”

The student was shocked into silence. She started, “I… I haven’t…”

The woman went on, “It will be such a help. Trying to keep house since my husband died… well, it’s been very difficult. As for the business, I seem to be losing more money than I’m making.” There was a long pause, then she spoke again, sounding tearful. “I’m sorry my dear. You don’t want to be burdened with any of that, I’m sure.”

“No. That’s alright, not at all.”

“Lovely. See you Monday then.”

She dropped the phone. “Well. Here we go,” she murmured, “social welfare in action!”