Monochromatic

Chapter 7

Rave

"And that right there is the storage room," I said as Azoria nodded

The new employee, Azoria Stone, had finally joined the team making my lonesome life in the shop more manageable. When we first met, she was a skittish mess who was easily frightened by my stare. However, Azoria was quite respectful and learned quickly. Her job was to help me with my chores and help customers locate certain items they'd like to buy. Simple enough for her I was sure, and she proved me right. It was just her luck that she started truly working on one of the busiest days we've ever had in years! Apparently, there had been special shipments of antique items worth millions of dollars, and we had them for some kind of sale! Of course, the news spread throughout the country about this, and Anna's Antique Shop became the top of the antique collector's priorities.

Azoria handled herself so well that week. She enforced the rules; kept the items cleaned; and did everything the boss asked her to do! We sold out of the rare collectibles, and in return, received a grand paycheck. After the big sale, Azoria's work performance never faltered. She always kept a bright smile on her face, which in turn gave the buyers a smile as well. She was meant to have that job, it was made for her. Azoria was always such a kind-hearted and optimistic person. She cared about anyone who walked through that door and made sure that they had at least one great part of their day. Customers soon just came to speak to her, and many bought things they didn't necessarily want as long as Azoria was the one to sell it to them. It made me smile, she was fitting in so well. It didn't take long for her to see past me as well. After Azoria settled in and became quite popular with the customers, I became less social with her. She didn't allow that to last, or maybe, she couldn't. Every day after work she'd try to speak with me and come to my friend, however, every time I felt her attempts were forced on her. Nonetheless, I gave in.

"Hey, Azoria? How long have you been staying in this city?" I asked as my shift ended.

We started at various times, but because of certain circumstances, our shifts ended at the same time. I offered to walk with Azoria outside to finish our conversation during work, and she took me up on my offer. Even outside of work she was so polite, a part of me felt warm because of it.

"Not for too long, but I guess you can call me a resident by now."

"Cool! What made you move here?"

"I'd rather not say..."

She forced a laugh, but anyone could hear the tragedy within it.

"Alright, I won't pressure you"

"Thank you'

"Well, you seem like a nice enough girl. You probably lived on your own for a while huh?"

No reply. Did I say something wrong? Or maybe...

"I've lived alone with my little sister for about eight years or so by now"

"You have a sister?"

"Yes"

"Me too! Well...a little brother to be exact"

"I bet he's a lot like you"

"No, no...he's way less talkative. A matter of fact, he's mute! A-also, he's always cooped up in the house"

"Wow! My little sister is usually seen at school studying. She usually always replies when you speak to her, but her answers are often simple."

"What's her name?"

"Libia"

"My brother's name is-oh my house is right around here! I have to go! See you tomorrow!"

Before she could finish, she ran.