A Gesture Life

Out for a drive through Bedley Run, an elderly Hata passes his old store and notices a for sale sign. He is shocked that Liv is the one selling it; she never mentioned it. Sunny Medical Supply going out of business disturbs Hata—he hoped the store would remain a humble legacy of “Doc Hata” and is troubled that his reputation will disappear, leaving nothing in his memory.

Liv sends meals to Hata regularly, and Renny calls to check up on him. When Renny visits, he closely observes Hata for any concerning changes. It is unusual that the house is unswept, dishes unwashed, and mail unsorted. Renny drinks a glass of wine and tells Hata Liv desires a permanent relationship. Though Renny desires the same, he fears she is simply settling for him. Renny helps Hata sort through the mail. They set up the dozens of get-well cards on the mantel, including one without a return address.

Hata wishes to thank the villagers for the get-well cards, but the collective memory of Doc Hata has disappeared. His reputation went from the nice old fellow to a random, ancient oriental. The day before, Hata called Lerner’s—the clothing store Sunny manages—and hung up after hearing her

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