-Cora
A sassy girl indeed. Resealing the top of the bag, I decide to let it be my treat for later. Setting it on the seat next to me, I pull out onto the street, and for once, I don’t fight the smile that spreads across my face. Now, how do I go about finding my girl?
Chapter Three
Cora
By the time I arrive at work, I’ve pushed the incident this morning out of my mind. Sure, the man overreacted by shouting at me, but I never expectedhimto intervene. I didn’t even notice anyone at the back booth where I usually sit. That’s what I get for talking to Mara and not paying attention.
He wedged himself between us as if it were a natural thing to do. He never hesitated, and I don’t know which part I find more shocking: the ease at which he hit him, or the fact that anyone came to my defense.
I thought for sure Mara was about to hop over the counter, but he beat her to it. I feel better knowing I was able to replace his coffee and muffin.
Heading toward the circulation desk, I smile at a few patrons in passing. Although I’m the youngest person on staff, I thoroughly enjoy my job. As the children’s librarian, I get to share my passion for books with the community. On Mondays, we have service dogs come in, and kids sign up to read to them. Between the little kids and the sweet dogs, it’s my favorite activity we offer.
Turning on my computer, I go through my emails andschedule for the day. There’s a staff meeting, someone hittingreply allinstead of justreply,and a few spam emails. A huge smile splits my face when I see that Rex, everyone’s favorite corgi, will be here for the Reading with Dogs event tonight. That should bring in a few extra patrons.
“Did you see the meeting scheduled for today?” Annie asks as she approaches the desk. I like her. She’s a sweet, older woman whom I consider my work mom. Her dark hair is partially gray, but she refuses to admit to having gray hair. “It’s just tinsel,” she reminds all of us.
“I did. But we just had one the other day. I can’t imagine what else they need to go over again.” I shrug.
“Who knows? Probably something to do with our funding, or programs, or someone complained because the homeless guy down the street was in here again washing his face.”
I let out a small hum at her response. I guess it’s going to be one of those days.
Leaving the library a few hours later, I head to the school to pick up Noah. Unfortunately, they don’t have any after-school clubs, unlike his previous school. Moving to a better neighborhood meant a school change, and as much as it can put a damper on things, I’ll keep that trade-off. I love reading hour and leading activities at the library, but to teach kids real subjects, no thank you.
Pulling into the school, I park and give myself a minute to enjoy the warmth of my car. The seasons are quickly changing, and it’ll bewinter before too long. I really need to start bringing a coat with me when I pick him up.
Grabbing my sweater, I pull it tighter as I walk to stand with the other parents waiting for their kids. Scrolling through my phone, I find a new message from Mara. She’s not usually a big texter, but then I remember the incident from this morning. Usually, I abhor violence, but the gorgeous stranger with tattoos didn’t really beat the guy up. Yeah, he hit the man, but it was more like a way of getting him to stop.
Mara:
I still can’t believe you sat with that guy.
Me:
Well, I knew you were about two minutes away from hopping over that counter. Prison orange is not your color.
Mara:
… I’d make it work.
Me:
Whatever you say.
Mara:
Dinner tonight?
Me:
No can do. I’ve got Reading with Dogs at the library followed by laundry and the store. You should come.
Mara:
Lame. Later.
