Time kept them apart for what

seemed like years before

Max's hand finally

reached Liesel's

shoulder.

Turning with a startled jerk, Liesel's came face to face with feathers and a bashful grin. Max took his hand off her shoulder while muttering an apology. The two continued to stare into the eyes of the past and present.

Young people.

They never know how much

time they have so they waste it

in wordless wonder.

"Max," Liesel whispered, still staring in disbelief.

"I've finally found you, Liesel Meminger."

. . .

I'm in most places at once, and in 1953, I was in most places at once. Once I have taken a soul, I try to move on. However, Max and Liesel Vandenburg continued to haunt me until it was time. I took Liesel after a long, fulfilling lifetime. Once I had taken her, I made sure to treat her with extra care.

I had followed most of her life, and in that time I saw her fall in love, raise her children, and enjoy the last years of her life, floating in bliss with feathers.

After a while, there was no need

for me to follow her every day.

Once a year, I made my rounds. Each year was more special than the last.

The book thief continued to be a

word shaker, even beyond the grave.