Byron's Secret (Slenderman Romance)

Chapter 14. Risk

After a warm shower, I hurriedly wore a simple pair of jeans and a plain long-sleeved shirt in a shade of blue, and, of course, my antique sling bag. I didn't bring much, just my phone, wallet and a bunch of ID's just in case, though I don't think this town is the type to need it.

It's what I like about it, a simple lifestyle, kind neighbors, the unity of the town. One problem though . . . The stupid stalking and disappearances. People might think I'm brave for being all happy-go-lucky about itーwhich I am notーbut personally, I'll say I'm just too dumb to care. Yep. I don't see the point in worrying too much, who knows? I might be able to overcome this like Rachel, I just need to stay positive.

I let out a sigh and went out the door, I checked to see it was locked properly, wouldn't want any weirdos going in my house now . . .

Now, where to go? On the matters of this part-time job, I'm up for anything, I just want one to get a little extra money and to keep myself busy. I might end up overthinking some things when I stay home alone for too much . . . Plus, it's safer to be around people, you are less likely to be targeted, mostly by stalkers.

Whatever. I'm gonna ask around the barーdiner. Seems like the best place for town information.

For some reason, I'm not feeling so joyful right now, no pun intended. Maybe it's because my morning started a bit too different than the usual.

Come to think of it, I'm sort of feeling a bit paranoid. I feel like someone is watching me. The town seems a little quiet today.

Walking, I gazed around, trying to spot anything that looked out-of-place. As expected, everything looked rather normal, yet the feeling of being watch is still there. I don't like this . . .

Sheesh.

Just ignore.

I rubbed my face and groaned as I stopped beside the bus stop, I don't feel like walking today.

I wonder what Byron does on the weekends . . . Doesn't he have anyone close to him? He can't possibly be workingーthen again, history is too different from art so I wouldn't know how hard it could be to manage.

History.

Never really liked the subject. But now that I thought about it, I really should research this place and the other things that happened here in the past. I know nothing about the stalking or that weird crossed-out circle symbol thingy, whatever that is.

My train of thoughts were disrupted when the bus pulled over. I hastily got inside and paid my fare. I sat on the front seat and stared at nothing as we drove.

"Good morning, lass." The same driver from before greeted me.

"Oh, morning." I smiled. Finally, someone to talk to who doesn't glare at you at every second that passes unlike somebody.

"Where ya headed to?" He asked as he drove away from the stop.

"Hmm . . . Just the barーI mean, diner." I mumbled, "I'm looking for a job."

"Job, ya say?" He glanced at me with a warm smile, "Ain't ya a teacher?"

"Yes, but it gets a little boring sometimes." I sighed, "A part-time job would do."

". . . Say, ya do any farm work?" He asked out of the blue.

"Not much but I have experience." I nodded, remembering mom's garden. Beautiful as hell.

"If ya want, I could use a little help with my farm." He offered with sincere eyes, "I'm not as young as I used to be, it gets a little tough."

I smiled, thankful, "I'll think about it."