From the moment I bought the lottery ticket, it didn't feel right.

I never spent money on lottery tickets and thought they were a waste of money.

But a sign on the street corner caught my eye when I was walking home from work one day.

Community lottery. Money raised goes to a good cause.

Current jackpot, $2,234,423.

I was intrigued for some reason.

It was a lot of money and I didn't imagine a lot of people were playing,

since it looked like a small operation.

I went inside and a small old man with a fine mustache stood behind the counter.

The store looked a little rough inside.

The paint was peeling from the walls and the shelves were half bare.

It smelled a bit like mildew and spoiled meat.

The shopkeeper smiled at me warmly as I walked up to the counter.

The light dancing in his eyes behind his round spectacles.

He wore a distinctive black suit with gold cuffs and collar.

Welcome, welcome. What can I do for you?

He said in a friendly tone.

I saw your sign outside and wanted to buy a few tickets for the lottery.

Of course, of course. All money raised goes to a good cause.

$2 for one. $5 for three.

$10 gets you seven tickets.

How many you want?

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