Epilogue

A few days later, some miles away—a little over a thousand, to be exact—a yellow van pulled into a real estate office. Warren Groober was delighted to see a customer, any customer, even one so young. Times were hard, and he hadn’t had a sale for months. He was disappointed that the young man wanted only a rental property, but perked up when he saw three months’ rent in advance.

“Yes, sir. That’s a fine location you’ve picked out, young man. What business did you say you were in? Altman, you said your name was?” Beat-up van, but at least he wasn’t dressed like the vagrants that usually drove those things. His curly hair was cut short and his glasses made him look serious.

“Yes, sir. David Altman. I’m a photographer.”

Funny little smile. Quiet feller, but polite. “Well, you’ve come to the right state. We have some of the most beautiful women in the South right here.”

“Yes, sir. I saw the sign. Miss America.”

“Sign? Oh, yeah. I remember seeing on the TV that they put that billboard up last year. Home of Miss America. We’re right proud of that. Yes sirree, if you want to photograph Southern beauties, you’ve come to the right place. My daughter’s a cheerleader. She’s as pretty as a picture, if I do say so myself.”

“I’m sure she is.”

“She’ll be needing a picture for the annual soon. Lots of the best-looking girls last year went clear to Little Rock to get a good photograph. If you’re any good, they won’t have to do that this year, Mr. Altman.”

“My photos are very professional, Mr. Groober. I’m sure they’ll be happy with them. And as a favor to you, I’ll give your daughter a free sitting.”

“Well, that’s right nice of you. I’m sure SueAnne will be plumb tickled. She does love getting her picture taken. You know how pretty girls are.” Warren Groober laughed and winked at the young man.

“Yes, I know, Mr. Groober. I know. Makes my work easy. Tell her I’ll be open by Saturday and to bring her friends.”

“I’ll do that. Now you take care, you hear?” Warren Groober watched the young man leave. Young feller, but serious. Not at all smart-alecky like some his age. He looked at the flier announcing the new business and thought of the free picture-taking session. SueAnne would be plumb tickled all right. Warren knew she would. Ever since she was little she had dearly loved having her picture taken.