Shadows In Durango

Chapter 16

*****Sofia's POV*****

The final bell of the day rang, a merciful end to what had felt like the longest school day of my life.

I gathered my things, slung my worn-out backpack over my shoulder, and made my way out of the building, grateful to be free of the stifling atmosphere and the ever-watchful eyes of my tormentor in detention.

Although, I did have Vincent to thank since the tall girl chose to leave me alone for the remainder of the school day - barely looking at me with that.

The chilly breeze greeted me as I stepped outside, a reminder of the storm that was rumoured to be on its way.

I shivered and pulled my thin layer tighter around myself with a final thought in mind: I was a working woman now, and I could afford to spend some money on warmer clothes!

If the storm was coming, I needed to prepare for it...

With newfound determination, I headed into town, aiming for the thrift store where I could hopefully find some affordable, cheap bargains once again.

The bell above the thrift store door jingled as I entered, the familiar musty smell of second-hand goods greeting me.

I breathed in deeply, feeling a sense of purpose as I surveyed the room deciding on which area to start in.

I began my search, sifting through the many racks of clothes with practiced ease. My fingers grazed over an old but sturdy waterproof jacket, and I added it to my growing pile of finds. Next, I picked out a couple of thick sweaters, a pair of jeans that looked almost new, and some practical sneakers which didn't seem to have anything wrong with them other than a scuff or two.

a simple black gym set caught my eye. It had a tiny stain on the ankle, but it was barely noticeable and reduced to a price I could easily afford - four dollars. I smiled, relieved that I wouldn't have to face the embarrassment of

my arms full, I turned to head for the checkout, but I didn't see the girl coming around the corner due to the mountain pile I was carrying in

and my clothes scattered

and looked up to find a girl with messy brown hair and glasses, her face flushed

this!" the girl exclaimed, her hands

me as she continued to ramble on. "I wasn't looking where I was going. Are

yeah, I'm fine. It's okay, really don't worry about

a mile a minute. "I'm such a klutz. My mom always says I'm like a tornado in a china shop. I hope I didn't ruin anything. I'm just here to find some books for school, and I got distracted by that jacket over there. It's really nice, don't

fairytale novel with her big doe like eyes and quirky style as she stood

Really. I'm Sofia, by the way." I decide to introduce myself, finding her to be friendly enough for a conversation. The girl looked up, pushing her glasses up her nose with a shy smile. "I'm Emma. Nice to

is where the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience

but endearing personality and decided to attempt to continue conversing with her

folding a pair of jeans neatly before handing them back to me. "You're in my English class, I think? I saw Vincent Walker toss something at you the other day, I would die if he did that to me! He's utterly terrifying that one!" She babbles

when he can it seems." I breathe out a smile, unsure of my feelings towards him after last night saving my job and today

the row behind you near the window. I don't have many friends, so I tend to just keep to myself. But maybe we could sit together at lunch tomorrow? I mean, only if you would want to? I totally get it if you don't by the way - no pressure!" She shrugs and

lonely sitting alone, doesn't it?" I offer my understanding, as she seems grateful

a deal then. We'll sit together tomorrow. It might just

random friendship solidified at the thrift store, we made our way back over to the checkout together with Emma helping to carry my items for me

had I prepared for the upcoming storm, but I had also made a new friend- a small, but significant victory in my otherwise

what she could ever know, knowing that I

waved goodbye with a cheerful, "See you tomorrow