All At Sea

by Eileen Rolland

Anna stood outside the bank clutching her handbag to her chest. She looked at the building with its cold, grey walls and all the old feelings flooded back

In her mind she saw Mr Duncan’s office – the huge, imposing desk and him in his highbacked chair, looking down. She was weeping. It had taken some time to get all the finances sorted. She’d noticed a picture of a boat on the wall, a cruiser, out at sea. It seemed appropriate. She’d felt ‘all at sea’ herself, being tossed about by events she had no control over.

‘That was then, this is now.’ She took a deep breath and went inside. “I’d like to speak to the manager”.

The teller was cheery. “Do you have an appointment?”

“I would be grateful if he could spare a few minutes.”

Anna didn’t have to wait long till she was shown into the familiar office. He sat behind his imposing desk, his face stern, his hands clasped. “How can I help you?”

“I have a cheque to deposit.”

Mr Duncan pursed his lips. “Perhaps one of the tellers can be of assistance.” He went to stand up.

“Sit down, Mr Duncan.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Please. I would appreciate your advice.” Anna slid the cheque from the National Lottery across his desk.

It took a moment for him to realise what was happening. A smile crossed his face when he saw all those lovely zeros.

“Well, would you believe it?” He pressed a button on his phone. “Linda, could you bring in some investment brochures please, and a coffee for Mrs Sinclair.”

Anna looked at the picture of the boat and she knew it would be plain sailing from now on.

Eileen Rolland began learning Tai Chi and Qigong in 1997 and has taught classes in both disciplines since 2004. Now that she is retired, she uses her training and experience in her writing. Find out more about Eileen @: www.eileenrolland.com