Teachers Pet

Books

We pulled into a small town, in front of an old store that was tucked away in a corner. I helped Luce off my bike, and placed her helmet on my seat. As she slid off she glanced around with a soft smile. "What is this place?" "It's just a small town I stumbled across a few years ago when I wanted to get away and clear my head. Though this is the first time I've brought anyone with me." I looked away feeling the heat on my cheeks. "It's so beautiful and peaceful here, I can see why it's become your sanctuary. Can we take a peek inside?" She pointed cautiously towards the old store. I took her hand in mine interlacing our fingers and walked inside. Almost nothing had changed. There were several clothing racks to the left just as you entered, though they were mostly full of vintage outfits and costumes. On the right upon entering was a glass case that led to the register. It was full of old jewelry and a few other high value items. As you progressed further into the store, there were shelves on either side stuffed with random items that people had once sold to the old store owner, and finally in the back were several shelves filled to the brim with books, and even more in piles next to the shelves. Next to the bookshelves were a few old leather couches and chairs, with mismatched tables that also had books stacked on them. I turned to Lucy and saw that her eyes were full of excitement. "Go, pick as many as you want." I chuckled. I released her hand and nudged her forward. She gave me a big toothy smile and disappeared into the isles of books. I took this opportunity to sneak back to the front of the store. I approached the glass case eyeing the jewelry inside carefully. Then I saw it, it was perfect. I got the old shop keepers attention and pointed to an antique ring I'd noticed a few weeks back. I handed him the money then slipped the ring into my pocket. I'll use this as a promise ring, it'll be perfect. I looked around and saw that Lucy was still in the aisles with several books in her arms as well as a growing pile next to her. I walked up to her and picked up the pile of books. "Need more time?" I chuckled. Her face flushed when she realized how many many books she had picked out. "It's fine Luce, why don't we go pay for these and then get some lunch? We can put them in the saddlebags." She nodded excitedly and wrapped her arm around mine and we walked up to the counter where the old man was still standing. I set the books on the counter and put my finger to mouth hinting to keep the ring a secret. The man winked acknowledging my signal and began to ring up the books. "What a healthy hunger for knowledge." He laughed as bagged the last of the books. "I love books, every one is a new adventure." She laughed. he handed me the bag as I handed him the money. "It's always nice to see the young people using their imaginations and eager to learn. I hope you have a good day young lady." She smiled happily and followed me back out of the shop.