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 smiled,

head for the checkout, but I didn't see the girl coming

my clothes

girl with messy brown hair and glasses, her face flushed with sheer panic and

my gosh, I am seriously so sorry for this!" the girl exclaimed, her hands flying

me as

but more surprised than hurt. "Yeah - yeah, I'm fine. It's okay, really don't

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 again. I do that when I'm nervous about

and quirky style as she stood in a pair of

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

for the complete experience all for free. The next chapter is eagerly

we finished picking up the clothes, I realised quickly that I liked Emma's odd but endearing personality and decided to attempt to continue

you around this week," Emma said, 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

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 after last night saving my job and today saving me from

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

alone, doesn't it?" I offer my understanding,

agreed, smiling. "It's a deal then. We'll sit together tomorrow. It might just help pass the days a little

made our way back over to the checkout together with Emma

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

than what she could ever know, knowing that I could look out for

"See you tomorrow then, Sofia!"