There comes a time when all we need is a friend

Woman: Mind if I sit next to you?

Man: *smiles* No, of course not.

Woman: You're from around here? I'm new.

Man: Yep.

Woman: I'm staying here with my father. He's ill. We thought he could use some sea and sun.

Man: *nods*

Woman: It's very nice here.

Man: Yeah.

Woman: Sometimes we forget God gave us such privileges and all we have to do is look and see. *brushes off sand from palm*

Man: *bents head*

Woman: We're having a small house-warming this evening. I'd be honored if you'd come. At least when strangers started asking me personal questions, I can run to a friend who apparently is very articulate. *smiles*

Man: *chuckles* I'd love to. Thank you.

Woman: Great! My house is over there. *points*

The woman walks away from the ocean and when she was far enough, the man stands up, looking at something shiny and heavy in his hand with guilt on his face. A tear drops, then a lot. When all is spent, he takes a deep breath and throws the gun into the water, gratified, knowing the woman has saved his life.