The front of the card showed a picture of the grounds of Puget Sound State University in the autumn, specifically the quad in the middle of campus where the huge water fountain sprayed mist into the air. In the background stood the old, brown-brick George Herbert Mead psychology building where Sheila had worked for the past fifteen years.
She smiled to herself; she hadn’t even known that PSSU had postcards. It was sweet of her colleagues to think of her. Dean Simmons, especially, had been very understanding. Her job would be waiting for her whenever she was ready to return.
She wasn’t sure if she wanted to go back. But it was nice to have the option.
The sound of snow crunching under tires made her look up. A big, black Cadillac was making its way up the long driveway toward the ranch house.
She waved happily to Morris, who grinned and waved back. Turning the postcard over in her gloved hands, she smiled in anticipation of the kind words.
Her hands began to shake and it wasn’t from the cold. This note wasn’t from anyone at the university-at least not from anyone there now.
Dear Professor Tao,
Saw you the other day. You seem to be doing well.
Enjoy it while it lasts.
Best,
Abby Maddox
Sheila heard the roar of a motorcycle from somewhere behind Morris.
Looking up, she caught a glimpse of tight jeans on a Triumph before it sped away.
Jennifer Hillier
