Demented

Chapter Eight

When I wake up, it's only five. Instead of going back to sleep, I change and walk to a twenty-four hour book store.

I search for the required novel while I spot a lady in black.

She walked nearer and nearer to me. Her eyes were bloodshot, her skin was wrinkly, and her hair was dying.

I could hear her heavy breathing from the distance between us. I could tell that I looked so frightened on her way here.

Finally she is only a half step near me. She rests her hands on the books displayed.

"How can I help you?" She asks me. Her voice was so raspy and tired.

Somehow, I felt relieved.

"I'm looking for 'The Time Keeper' written by Mitch Albom." I answer her.

"Oh, follow me."

I follow her to the section where there seems to be cobwebs almost everywhere. She ducks the webs and grabs the book and brushes the dust off.

"Here you go." She hands me the book.

I walk to the cashier and give the book to the tired young man. He grabs the book from my hand and scans it without even hesitating. I glance at his name tag that said: Johnny.

I had thoughts running through my mind as he slowly checks the book.

I realize he is already handing the book to me, waiting for me to have it. I look at his dark eyes stare into my soul.

I quickly walk out of the deserted book store. On the way to school, my workplace on weekends catches my attention.

It's only six-ten. I could stop by for a while and do a little work.

Warmth creeps in my body when I step inside. I was firstly greeted by Casper.

"Hey Ana!" My workmate greets.

"Hey Casper." I greet back.

Casper has always seemed to make my day of work better, he is so cheerful and bright.

"Are you here to take Nora's shift?" He asks me.

"No, I was just going to drop by. I also came here to tell you that I'll only be here half of my schedule on Saturday."

I inform him

"Why?"

"I'm going on a date." I hesitate

"Oh." His face lowers at my answer.

Before it could get any more awkward, I change the subject.

"So, how can I help you?" I offer.

"You can help me clean up the counter and a few tables." He smiles

I walk to the sink and grab the small rug with a cleaning spray. I start with the counter next to Casper, his face catches my attention in the corner of my eye as his eyes widen.

When I spot a tiny puddle of coffee on the counter I stretch my arm out to wipe it, Casper rests his hands on mine and kindly offered,

"I can take your shift on Saturday, you can take your time on that... date." He offered

I give him a warm smile and look straight to his eyes.

"Thank you so much."

He nods and removes his hand from mine as I continue to wipe the mess.

I glance at the clock, seven o'clock.

"Uh, Casper I need to go." I tell him.

"Sure, bye."