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.

barely noticeable and reduced to a price I could easily afford - four dollars. I

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

landed with a soft "oof" and looked up to find a girl with messy brown hair

the girl exclaimed, her hands flying

down to help gather the fallen clothes back up for me as she

more surprised than hurt. "Yeah - yeah, I'm fine. It's okay, really don't worry about it." I smile, pushing myself back up

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

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

the way." I decide to introduce myself, finding her to be friendly enough for a

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finished picking up 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 same school which was a

to me. "You're in my English class, I think? I saw Vincent Walker toss something at you the

my head down but yet, Vincent likes to test me when he can it seems." I breathe out a smile, unsure of my feelings towards him

window. I don't have many friends, so I tend to just keep to myself. But maybe we could

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

Emma agreed, smiling. "It's a deal then. We'll sit together tomorrow. It might just help

our way back over to the

felt a sense of accomplishment. Not only had I prepared for the upcoming storm, but I had

ever know, knowing that I could look out

left the thrift store, Emma waved goodbye with a cheerful, "See you tomorrow then, Sofia!" Before heading across the road to