Page 44 of Bookworm

He did look more sullen than usual. It would take a whole cheer squad to lift that guy's spirits, I thought. With a nod, I added another item to the list.

Cheer Boup. Go to games.

I didn't stay for the whole practice. I had to get home and drop off my things beforedriving to the libraryearly. There was something I needed to do before my shift started. Having watched Bo today, it struck me that possibly the best way I could help him was at the flower shop. I knew next to nothing about gardening. I wasn't a green thumb by any means. But I could learn.

And I would.

I just had to get hired first.

Instead of going straight to the library, after I parked, I got out of my carand walked across the street.Mrs. Lee's Flower Shophad a sign featuring pink cursive font set against a white background along with apink and green awning.Beneath that, there was a shaded space with two chairs.The store window had original painted artwork every few weeks. Honestly, the whole setup was inviting, welcoming. As I stepped through the door, a chime sounded, and I was immediately surrounded by the smell of fresh flowers.

My eyes closed involuntarily to breathe it in.

The air was so fresh.

So pure.

As I exhaled, I felt my shoulders relax.

I opened my eyes and looked around, noting the colorful flower displays, walls painted a calming shade of light mint green, cream tiled floor, several mismatched yet somehow complementary chairslining the small seating area. The curved archway behind the counter was lined with flowers as well. It was charming and gorgeous, and I regretted not having come here sooner.

"Be with you in a minute," a voice said from the back.

I was still taking it all in when a woman appeared.

Her lips had been tipped up at the corners, not quite a smile, but not a frown either.

Until she saw me.

"Oh," Bo's grandmother said, her lips turning down. "It's you."

I was thrown. I definitely hadn't expected to see her here,but there was nothing to do but smile and brazen it out.

"Hello again," I said.

"You want to buy some flowers?"

Walking up to the counter, I shook my head. "Not today but thank you. This is a beautiful shop."

She nodded.

"It's been here all this time," I said. "I see it when I go to work at the library butnever come in. It's like a whole other world here, a magical one. I half expect to see fairies and sprites flying around."

Bo's grandmother simply stared me down.

Obviously not a fantasy lover then.

"Um…if it wouldn't be too much trouble, can I please talk to the owner?" I asked.

Her face didn't budge. "I am the owner."

Of course.

"That's awesome," I said with a nervous chuckle. "Women owned businesses rock."

"Yes," she said and crossed her arms. "Did you need something, Charlotte, Lottie, Lotte?"

I gave her a nod. "I was hoping you might hire me."

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