Punchline

Chapter 2: Doesn't Matter

Making my way to the counter I took a moment to really look around my shop. I never knew how small it was, maybe we need a bigger sign? The inside looked so dull with the brown walls and shelves. Maybe customers confused this place to be an antique store instead of a pet shop. The name of the shop doesn't help either. I mean who calls a pet shop "The Tree's Shop" anyway? What was going through my great great great great...grandfather's mind when he created this I don't know, his store might of been popular then but now the only customers we have are dust bunnies and people who ask to use the restroom.

As I finally made it to the register there was a tall man standing there patiently. I unlocked the register and smiled at him.

"What can I do for you?" I said as sweet as I possibly could.

"Can I use your bathroom," he says taking no beat to reply back.

I kept my smile even though I was irritated at the fact.

"Of course you can."

I gave him the key to open the door and he basically ran on the way there.

See what I mean; bathrooms and dust bunnies.

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After Hayli left I closed the shop, took the money out of the cash register, and locked up. I started walking home and looked at my watch, it was currently 7 o'clock. By the time I make it home it will be around 7:45, would Steve still be awake?

I'll just text him to make sure.

As I was waited for his reply I quickened my usual pace home, to my apartment. It was getting darker and Steve's sleep schedule isn't the best, as soon as the sun goes down so does he.

As I got closer I ended up arriving earlier like I expected. I hurried up the stairs, unlocked my door, and walked inside.

I was welcomed to silence. My brother Pine was most likely still out studying at the library, he should be here by the time I make it back since the library closes at eight. I knew my mother was out because she never comes home till late at night, God knows doing what.

I went to my room and stuffed the cash into a little box that had most of my earnings in it. Instead of putting it in a bank that gets robbed I have everything I need right in front of me. I counted everything and nodded, not one penny missing. Once I put the money box back in hiding I quickly got changed and grabbed the notes he needed.

There's no point in describing what I'm wearing; a nice top, pants, and shoes, that's basically it.

I stepped outside and pulled the keys out of my pocket to securely lock the door.

I left and hurried down the stairs beginning my journey to Steve's dorm.

Since I don't have a car nor can drive I either take a bus or walk. Walking isn't an option so taking the bus it is.

I shivered feeling the night cool breeze against my skin. Knew I should've brought a jacket. I started jogging hopefully getting warmer along the way.

What felt like years, I finally made it...to the bus stop. As if on cue it arrived right on time and I didn't hesitate to climb in.

I sat comfortably in an open seat and slumped down.

I grinned a little.