Well, actually it was yesterday afternoon. I would have walked right past her if she hadn't talked to me, I didn't even realize it was her. She was about twelve years old this time, carrying a backpack, wearing a plaid skirt, tights and sneakers. She looked like everybody's kid sister from every tv series ever made.
She stopped and smiled at me, waved her hand eagerly to get my attention. "Hey Jim! How are you today?" she asked. I guess I did a double, or maybe triple, take, thinking, "Who is this kid? She doesn't look familiar. She's not the daughter of one of my tenants". Then I recognized the pony tail, the glasses. "Emily?" I asked.
"Sure,"she giggled, "if that's what you want to call me. But I'd really prefer it if you use my real name. I haven't heard it in so long I can hardly remember it."
I remember it. But I don't think I have the courage to speak it out loud.
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