Sparks

Chapter 30

I step quietly into the candy shop. It takes the girl behind the counter a few seconds to see me and when she does, she is startled.

"Oh, I didn't see you come in!" I chuckle.

"That's fine, I'm a pretty quiet person." The girl gives me a strange look but doesn't respond. I walk over to the candy wall and pick out a few chocolates and gummies and such, then go to the counter.

"Will that be all?"

"Yes, thank you." I hand her the money, grab the candy, and leave.

I take an orange chocolate out of the bag and put the rest away before I continue to walk. Before I can take ten steps, my phone rings. I huff a sigh and fish it out of my bag, glancing at the caller ID.

"Hello, Delores. What's the occasion?"

"Well, dear, I'd forgotten that you had asked me to call when the girl shows up. But she just showed up again. About the same time as she does every day." I sigh.

"Is there any point in rushing?"

"I don't see why there would be. Shall I try to keep her here?" I debate for a few seconds internally.

"No. Let... her leave if she wants to. We don't want to let her know something's amiss."

Delores chuckles nervously. "I already told her to keep an eye out for creepy men. Is that a problem?"

"Um, no, I don't think so. What did she do?"

"She kind of smirked and nodded, like she already knew."

"Odd. Anyway, I'll be right over."

"See you in a minute, dear." I end the call and groan. Another Sparky sighting and I'm probably not going to get there in time. Oh well, at least I'll get to chat with Delores again. Much more interesting than just patrolling.

The walk back is quiet, as usual. I find myself looking into dark alleys more than usual. I guess my experiences have made me more vigilant, which is arguably a good thing. However, no men lurk in the shadows.

"Hello, Aryn!" Delores calls out from her rocking chair. I'm still several houses away so I wait until I get a bit closer before replying.

"Hello, Delores! I missed her again?"

"Unfortunately, yes, she left just a minute ago. Right before I caught sight of you." I make a face and groan.

"Ugh. It's uncanny how well she avoids me, considering I'm actively looking for her."

"I know. It's almost like she's realized you're looking for her."

I freeze.

Is that it? Have I not been subtle enough? Did it realize what I'm doing?

"You alright, dear? You look like you've seen a ghost." Delores's voice is amused, but her face shows concern. I give myself a mental shake before responding.

"I - I'm fine. Just thinking about what you just said. You might well be right."

"I'm always right." I laugh.

"But, see, if she has noticed me looking for her then that could be bad."

"Why? I see no reason that we can't just arrange a meeting of some sort for you two. Perhaps a play-date?"

"Delores, I'm eighteen," I remind the old lady patiently.

"Ah, then whatever you do with your friends. The hang out? I don't know. One of those."