Don't Hesitate

Chapter XII

Twelve

"You can just put the cart next to the counter when you're done!" Uncle Rick calls out from the entrance. He was going to ask something from the owner next door.

"Got it!" I call back, humming happily while I put books on the cart and some on the science fiction shelves. These books aren't half bad at all. I finish quickly, not wanting to leave the front counter vacant when someone comes in. I just had five more books to put on the shelf when a boy comes in.

He was wearing a soccer sweatshirt and looked about thirteen, with long dark hair. I didn't know what to do so I put my books down on the counter and follow him, who has heading to look at the science fiction aisle.

"Uh, how can I help you?" I manage. This was the first time I'm talking to a customer by myself, but I know Uncle Rick always asks questions.

The boy seems surprised, and then looked questionable. "You're not the man who works here."

I laugh in surprise. "No, that's my uncle. He's over at the other shop for something. Uh.. Is there anything I can help you with?"

He looks at me questioningly. "Do you like science fiction?"

I nod enthusiastically.

"We have Hunger Ga-"

"Read it." He says blatantly, which took me by surprise. I blink my eyes and try to think of more books we had.

"The Maze Runne-"

"Yup."

"Legend?"

He nods, looking bored. I suddenly turn my attention to the new copies of books we had on the cart.

"Well, this one is really good. I used to read it all the time when I was little, with my cousin." I smile as I make my way over to get a copy of Ender's Game.

He eagerly takes it, flips some pages and looks at the back of the book. I look expectantly.

"I'll take it!" He beams. I smile back and make my way behind the counter, taking his bills and giving him his change.

"I won't need a bag," He says, taking his receipt and change and shoving it in his pocket. I watch him go, sighing. I've yet to find a guy my age who loves to read. I smile at the thought. That would be amazing! I would always have to force Jesse to read things with me, but I knew he secretly liked reading to me when I used to get sick when we were little. 

 The boy makes his way out the door, but then collides with Uncle Rick, who's making his way inside.

"Hey, Rick!" The kid waves.

"Hey, Chris! Want a muffin?" Uncle Rick shoves a yummy looking carrot cake muffin in the boy's face. Chris takes it and thanks him enthusiastically. He makes his way down the block, munching on the muffin with his book in hand.

Rick gives the other muffin to me.

"It smells heavenly," I sigh, cupping the warmness with both my hands. Uncle Rick nods.

"Yeah, i got it from the bakeshop next door. She's always giving me all sorts of things. He rolls his eyes, suppressing a smile.

"This is amazing!" I exclaim, bits of muffin crumbs flying out of my lips. It's so soft and warm and delicious!

"I'm glad. Think of it as a little reward for helping me out today." He says, giving a wink and a playful nudge.

"No problem," I muffle out, after I take another a bite off of the muffin.