It was a pitiful day.
Rain drearily drummed the high roof tops of London while grey clouds choked the sky. Colorful umbrellas dotted the busy crowds, adding a splash of much needed color to Main Street.
In the middle of all the commotion of London in the morning was as girl on her bicycle. She was in no hurry, for she was already late. Her lose golden curls hung limply around her face, drenched by the rain. Small streams of mascara rolled from her green eyes down her freckled head.
No one paid her much attention. It was normal for young people to be out and about, even in this weather.
The girl cursed herself for being such an idiot. She had an umbrella attachment for her bicycle, but had left it at home in a hurry.
Her morning hadn’t been the most pleasant. She had over slept, and came to a rude awakening when her dog bit her nose. She had only had 15 minutes to take a shower, get dressed and eat breakfast.
She might as well have brought some soap with her. In this down pour she’d be clean in minutes.
School had started half an hour ago. She was beginning to wonder if it was even worth it anymore. She’d be scolded for being late for the umpteenth time, and then given a detention.
The girl passed the drive to her school. She glanced uneasily down the road, debating whether or not to take it. She couldn’t face Mrs. Umpknote, today, or ever.
At the last minute, she swerved away and headed back towards the center of London. She decided to go to a little book store on the corner of Barkley and Kingston, Guallo’s bookshop. The owner, Missy Q, had become quite fond of her in recent months. She had even given the girl a job shelving books and cleaning up messes left by customers.
The little shop sat alone on the corner, a pop of pretty in the dreary day. Warm lights glowed from inside, yellow and inviting.
The girl parked her bike around back, and ran into the shop. This store held so many memories for her, and so many more to be created.
“Good morning, Becky. I didn’t expect to see you here today.” Missy Q greeted her.
“I know I’m not clocked in for today, but can I stay and help?” Becky asked.
“Dear, aren’t you supposed to be at school?”
“Yes but-”
“No buts,” Missy scolded. “I am taking you to school right now.
“Please Missy!” Becky begged. “I am already late. I don’t want to face Mrs. Umpknote.”
“I’ll talk to her, Becca. I won’t let her give you another detention.” Missy grabbed her keys off the bulletin board behind the desk. “Marco, you are in charge. Watch the store until I get back.”
Somewhere in the back of the room, someone shouted “Yes!” which was shortly followed by a loud crash.
“That was probably a mistake,” Missy laughed. “No matter. Let’s go Becky.”
