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.

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

I didn't see the girl coming around the corner due to the mountain

a thud, and my

with messy brown hair and glasses, her face flushed

so sorry for this!" the girl exclaimed, her hands flying up to her mouth

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

nodded, feeling a bit dazed but more surprised than hurt. "Yeah - yeah, I'm fine. It's okay, really don't worry about it." I smile, pushing myself

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 you think? Oh, sorry, I'm rambling

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

at the girl's nervous chatter. "It's alright. Really. I'm Sofia, by the way." I decide to introduce myself, finding her to be friendly enough for a

Join us for the complete experience all for free. The

clothes, I realised quickly that I liked Emma's odd but endearing personality and decided to attempt to continue conversing with her more. We began to chat more easily, discovering that we both attended the

saw Vincent Walker toss something at you the other day, I would die if he did that

yet, Vincent likes to test me when he can it

keep to myself. But maybe we could sit together at lunch tomorrow? I mean, only if

with gratitude. "I'd like that. It gets pretty lonely sitting alone, doesn't it?" I offer my understanding, as she seems grateful for

a deal then. We'll sit together tomorrow. It might just help pass the days

at the thrift store, we made our way back over to the checkout together with Emma helping

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

mean more to me than what she could ever know, knowing

waved goodbye with a cheerful, "See