Page 37 of Collided

“I’m looking out for you, Hope.” She softens her tone.

“I know.” First, she gives me a blow then rubs it with a balm.

She clears her throat. “Why don’t you help me with lunch? I got my paycheck so I’m making something nice.”

Just like that the topic ends.

The library is my favorite place in the world. If I could, I’d live here and make it my home.

Sitting on the floor, I lean my back against the shelf and make myself comfortable. I flip the pages of the third book in the series. I’ve got four more, but I’m already dreading the last book. I’m enjoying it so much that I don’t want it to end.

The idea from last night crosses my head, especially after this morning. I can make bracelets. I know how to. Maybe…I can sell them online and make money. That way, I can buy as many books as I want, and also spend some when I’m out with Marie and her friends.

I was embarrassed when Heath bought me food. If it weren’t for the headache and hunger I would’ve put up a fight.

My phone vibrates. I see Marie’s name popping up on the screen.

“Hey. I’m coming to pick you up to go to the ice rink. I’m sorry I had to bail yesterday. I had to run an errand. I’m free now, and so are the boys. So, text me your home address.”

“I’m at the library, actually.” I close my book.

“Oh, the one near the pizza shop, right?”

There is only one library in Bellmare town and it is mostly vacant. Not a lot of people come here to read. So, the librarian doesn’t stock up on the latest and trending releases which sucks big time for an avid reader like me.

“Yes.” I put the book back in its place.

“I’m a minute away.”

I exit the library and stand outside.

A brand-new white BMW i8 pulls up to the curb. I see Marie waving at me.

Once I’m in, she says, “I missed you.”

I smile. “You saw me yesterday.”

“I know.”

There’s something about Marie. She radiates off such bright energy and sunshine that even your sadness and problems dim under her light.

“You don’t have a book with you today.”

“I left it inside. I’ll pick it up tomorrow.”

She frowns. “Do you not buy books?”

The question rubs me the wrong way. “I don’t. I use my library card to read books.”

She grins excitedly. “That’s great because I can give you books.”

I giggle. “That would be the best gift.”

“I can also get you bookmarks, pens, highlighters, and so much more stuff.”

“A book would be fine, Marie.”

Starting the car, she shrugs. “We’ll see.”

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