Open Book

Untitled Part 2

Lacey opened the door to her favorite bookstore and smiled as memories came back to her. Unlike the rest of the shops on Fifth Street, Anderson's Books hadn't changed at all since she had left. Rows of bookshelves lined the store and leather chairs were placed along the wall. To her right, Mr. Anderson sat at his desk, just as he had six months before, when she left for Paris.

"Lacey, is that you?" He peered over the top of his glasses. "Do I dare trust my eyes?"

"Yes, it is me," Lacey laughed.

"I missed you, you know. The shop isn't the same without you taking up that leather chair in the corner."

"Well, I'll be sure to claim it as mine again as soon as possible."

"There's no need for you to claim it again, it was always yours," Mr. Anderson reassured her.

"I was glad to see that your shop is still in business. I was worried walking down Fifth Street."

"You've heard the news, then?"

"Only that the Kreugers had opened some new shops on Main Street. Ms. Nora told me that they are creating jobs and improving the city. She's come to terms with it, even though it cost her the business. She told me that they haven't opened any bookstores yet and that your business was still thriving. Is there more that she left out?"

"She is too kind for her own good, always quick to see the good in anyone. But yes, there is something she left out."

Lacey leaned forward, indicating that she was listening.

"There have been riots in the streets every weekend for the past couple months. The people are not happy with the Kreugers' decisions."

"That explains the broken glass in the shop windows. But why is there need for rioting? I do not think rebuilding in itself is so great a crime it incites riots," she speculated.

Mr. Anderson continued in a hushed voice, as if telling a secret, "There has been talk that Mr. Kreuger has a dark secret. Some say he is running from the government and that his motivation behind this renovation is to create a safe haven for him and his family. He plans to take over the town and build blockades as if we were living in some war. He's already started building on Second Street and I'm afraid Fifth Street will not be far behind."

"And you're sure about this? About his motivation, I mean."

"He hasn't given any evidence to the contrary."

The bell chimed and Lacey turned to see who had entered the store. There, at the door, stood a young man who looked to be about her age if not just a little older.

"Good afternoon, grandfather. I've brought your mail with me." He took off his hat and entered the store.

"Lawrence!" Mr. Anderson exclaimed, "What wonderful timing. Come, have you met Ms. Wells?"

"I can not say I have. I would have remembered meeting such a handsome young lady." He extended his hand, "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"And I you." Lacey shook his hand.

"Lacey has just come back from Paris," Mr. Anderson explained to Lawrence. "She's been on vacation for six months and has just returned."

"Ah, the city of love. And how did you like it?" He asked her.

"It was wonderful! I felt as if I had stepped into a painting, like an escape from reality. I had such a hard time leaving. Have you ever had the chance to visit Paris?"

"Lawrence has traveled the world," Mr. Anderson answered.

"Is that so?" she looked up at Lawrence, wonder in her eyes.

"I'm afraid my grandfather has exaggerated my travels to some extent," he laughed. "To answer your question, yes, I have visited Paris along with some other major cities. However, there is still much of the world I would love to see."

"And I'm sure you will. I would travel the world if only I had the funds to do so. As it is, I have traveled only once, but it is a trip I am sure I will never forget. Have you been in Oschta Valley long?"

"No, I moved here just over a week ago. My good friend lives here and I decided to follow his example. Now I am certain I have made the right decision." He grinned and winked at her.

Lacey felt her cheeks flush at his comment. "I can assure you that there are much more amusing things in this town than a common girl like me. Have you visited the Northgate Gardens since your arrival?"

"Unfortunately, I have not had much time for tourism, but my grandfather has told me all about its beauty. The Kreugers are hosting their charity ball at the gardens and I will be able to see it in all its glory when I attend."

"I can assure you, you will not be disappointed. I am afraid I must take my leave now. Perhaps I will see you at the ball." Lacey smiled.

"I look forward to it. Good day, Ms. Wells." Lawrence nodded his head in farewell.

"Good bye, Lacey." Mr. Anderson looked up from his books.

"Good bye, Mr. Anderson. I'll be sure to visit you later this week." Lacey waved and stepped out the door.

She looked around at her surroundings and, after determining that no one was in sight, a grin formed on her face. Bunching up her skirt with one hand and placing the other on her hat, she ran down the street. Buildings flew by and the wind blew through her hair as she made her way back home.