Falling for Midnight

Chapter Eleven

"There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in."
— Leonard Cohen

It was finally Monday and I could finally go back to school. Aaron had left on Saturday to manage some company matters and I took the time to reply to all pending messages. The old lady and I haven't spoken since our little argument except for a few casual greetings.

I was currently in the car on my way to school when we drove past a cute little bakery.

''Sir, Could you please stop here? I need to get something.'' I called out to the chauffeur.

''Sure thing ma'am.'' He replied and pulled over. The name of the bakery was Suzy's Corner and it was a cottage-like building with a cute baby blue brick wall design and glass double doors.

I pushed it open and walked in and the interior was so warm and cozy, it felt like a safe haven. There were cream-coloured couches and beautiful wooden tables. There sat a counter in the middle of the place.

I walked over and saw a dark-haired girl with brown eyes and a soft smile.

''Welcome to Suzy's Corner where your tastebuds find delight! How can I help you?'' She said with a blinding smile. I smiled softly before replying.

''Thank you.'' I quickly scanned the show glass. ''Do you have a blueberry muffin?'' I asked.

''Yes, we do. Would you like anything with your muffin?'' She asked, grabbing a small notepad and a pen.

''A hot cup of latte with cream to go please,'' I replied.

''Alright! I'll get your order prepared as soon as possible!'' She chirped. I smiled and nodded. She went to work while i scanned the area for a good place to sit.

I settled on a seat close to the counter and made myself comfortable while I waited. I glanced around the place and it was relatively empty save for the middle-aged group of people who sat a few feet from me.

They consisted of a lady and three men. I quietly observed them as I waited for my order.

''The annual ritual is coming up next week.'' The 1st man said grimly.

'' I know right? Guess we're gonna have to close up for a week after. Don't wanna be caught on the street when shit goes down.'' The second man replied.

''I wonder who the unlucky child would be this time.'' The lady said.

Child? Does that mean there's an age bracket for this?

''Here's your order!'' The girl said startling me out of my thoughts.

''Oh...thank you,'' I answered. I stared at her. Certainly, she knew...

''Excuse me, Do you happen to know anything about the ritual coming up?'' I asked as innocently as possible.

She kept the smile on her face but her eyes betrayed her as I saw the fear and apprehension in them. She laughed.

''Don't be silly. Nothing of that sort happens here. Don't let yourself be carried away by rumors.'' she brushed off.

Liar...

'' Oh okay,'' I asked softly.

''Hope to see you soon!'' She chirped.

''Sure.'' I replied. I stood up and walked towards the door to exit the shop. As I pulled the door open to walk through, I bumped into someone. I've really got to stop doing this shit! I'll break my nose at this point.