It was night. Allen stood on the pavement, right at the bright gate of the theater. Above him, a giant Aladdin poster shone with its own light. People were coming out of a side door from the show, their voices filling the air. On his left, near the ticket window, a new line was already forming for the next movie.
The air felt wet and heavy, like rain was about to fall. Down the road, cars rushed by, their headlights flashing and horns echoing.
Just a short distance down the pavement to his right, a food stand sent out waves of delicious smells—maybe fresh fried snacks or something sweet. Two or three hungry people waited there.
Across the road, he could see the other sidewalk. People walked past one another—some couples holding hands, and a policeman stood with a coffee cup, hot steam rising into the air. Shops glowed brightly. A jewelry store sparkled with shiny pieces, a bookshop displayed tall stacks of new books, and other stores showed off their goods. Their bright windows seemed to call out to anyone passing by, inviting them to come in and spend money.
Ring... ring...
A phone chimed. Feeling the vibration in his front jeans pocket, Allen realized it was his. He pulled it out. On the screen, the name "Dean" appeared.
Allen picked up the phone.
"Hello?"
The caller's voice replied, "Allen, how are you, my child?"
"I'm fine, Director," Allen said. "How are you and the kids?"
Dean replied warmly, "We are doing great, thanks to your donation, child. The children have books to read, clothes to wear, good shoes. We're also able to cover the orphanage's daily needs. But, child, I'd suggest you not give so much. You also have to live your own life."
Allen smiled softly. "All I have is you and the orphanage, ever since I can remember. So I'm just doing what children do for their parents."
Dean's voice was kind. "Okay, child, take care. I called to let you know we received your donation today. Thank you, and don't forget to take care of yourself too. Before I forget—the children are waiting for your visit."
"I will," Allen said. "When I get some time."
Dean ended the call.
Allen slipped the phone back into his pocket and looked up at the sky. It was black-red, the air still a little humid. He sighed and muttered,
"I'm tired, Amy. It would have been great if you were here. I've gathered so much wealth. We could have lived the life we always dreamed of. Our adventures would have been amazing. Without you, all I have left is just paper. At least I can fulfill one of your wishes—the orphanage is still standing. The children will have what we never did.
"Well, today I watched Aladdin. I think it's the kind of story you would've liked. What I loved most was the wish-fulfilling genie. I hope there's a genie who'll let you meet me again in this life."
A small tear slipped from each eye. He took a deep breath and began walking along the pathway.
After some distance, a car stood parked in a marked spot on the road. A man in a driver's uniform waited beside the car door. As he saw Allen approaching, he asked,
"Sir, are we going back?"
Allen replied, "I'd like to walk to the park first. Meet me at Gate No. 4."
"Yes, sir," the driver nodded.
Allen continued walking toward the park, which lay just a little ahead of the theater.