The Astrophysicist

Dec 2, 2019

ECO

My next stop was at a creepy antiques shop, deep within Manhattan.

Upon arrival, I immediately noticed that this was unlike any other antiques store I had visited. It was full of some of the most obscure oddities I had ever seen. Everything from human skulls, to old medical devices, to weapons and grotesque artwork. It was wonderful.

It was here that I also discovered the solution to a question I had. Approximately 1 month ago, The Inventor teased me with a device, taunting, “maybe I’ll explain it to you some day.” It was here that I learned just what that device was.

I would purchase a few inexpensive pieces to give as Christmas gifts to my family. This year, I would be gifting them with things that meant something to me.

Turning to the counter, I would proceed to check-out.

“Interesting store you have here. I don’t think I’ve ever seen an antiques shop quite like this one.”

“Thank you!” she said. “Unfortunately, we’re closing down in about a month.”

“I’m so sorry to hear that. What happened?”

“It’s time for me to move onto something else. The antiques business just isn’t what it used to be.”

“That’s too bad. If it makes you feel any better, you just helped me confirm one of my theories.”

“A theory, huh? It’s not physics, is it?”

“Something like that,” I laughed.

“Interesting. I was an Astrophysicist for many years.”

“Oh, that’s really cool! I’m more of an amateur physicist, myself. Still, I think I’m onto some really unique ideas. Here - take a couple of business cards.”

I handed her my card. “If anyone comes looking for me, you can give them one. Tell ‘em Ink left it with you.”

“Ink?” she reflected.

“Ink.” I laughed.

She finished packing my items, and sent me on my way. It wouldn’t be until later that I noticed she had put a photograph into the package. It was an old-time style photo of her, and (presumably) her husband, posing in her shop.

I was immediately stricken; was that my birth mother?

CAT

data.stats.symptoms = [
    - confidence
]