PARKER

The walk from my Apartment, to my new Cafe, was short, thank God!

I carried the box of the freshly baked Muffin's, made last night, and a plastic bag. It wasn't heavy, just awkward. I needed to dodge those tree roots that criss crossed the pathway, it wasn't in the best condition. The last thing I needed was to drop them, and waste a nights baking!

Placing the box down for a moment, I veered off the pathway, and onto the grass.

The Dumpster, wasn't far from the path. That was where I was headed.

Not for the Dumpster, but for the guy asleep behind it!

A dark shape, atop a blanket! No mattress, no pillow. Just a wadded up pile of clothing under his head.

How did he sleep like that?

Was he asleep? I couldn't really tell.

It was hard to tell anything about this guy! He was dressed all in black, even his worn out joggers were black.

His face was hidden by a black cap that was pulled down over his eyes. Only a nose, and a beard were visible.

How old was he?

I was curious. What made a guy end up like this?

I had walked past this guy, for the past week, going to and from, the Cafe.

I had gradually come to a decision. I would drop off some food for the guy, each day, when I walked past. I didn't need to say anything!

I would just drop a bag, nearby. The guy would find it! If he was hungry enough!

It was no skin off my nose! I worked in a Cafe after all. It wasn't too much trouble to make an extra sandwich or two. Or just drop off what was left at the end of the day!

It was a small gesture, and the best I could do.

I made toasted sandwiches for breakfast this morning, the plastic bag in my hand held two. I had also added a bottle of juice.

After all, what was a sandwich, without Juice? I hoped he liked Orange!

Taking another quick glance, I dumped the bag nearby and strode back to the path to pick up my box.

Happy to have that out of the way, I continued the short distance to the Cafe.

Time to start the day!

. . . . .

ALEX

I had been listening. I kept still, when I heard approaching footsteps. Feigned sleep!

My heart was pounding, was this person, friend or foe?

Then I heard the rustle of a plastic bag! Excitement grew! I had taken a peak then, just raised my cap slightly. Just enough to see a retreating back!

Was that the owner of the Cafe?

If so the food should be good!

I waited until, the Cafe guy was gone. Then got up and grabbed the bag, ducking quickly back behind the dumpster.

Oh wow! The toasted sandwiches looked and smelt amazing! My rumbling stomach, agreed! 

I sent up a silent thank you, to that stranger!

And ate!