Claimed novel Chapter 2

Ophelia

As I followed my GPS toward the store I noticed just how small this town was. Most of the stores were located in the town square. It looked almost like something out of a fairytale. I laughed a little at myself for thinking that. I have always been an avid reader and sometimes I think it is to my detriment. I try to stay in reality because my life is certainly not a fairytale. It is without a doubt as boring and unhopeful as you can get in some opinions. I still have hope though, that I will get into a good college and will escape my family. I don't think my parents hate me, I just think they are easily influenced by my sister.

I get out of my car and start to walk around looking at all the different shops. There is a small house goods store, a book store, grocery, and even a clothing store. They all have the name Henson in the title. I am guessing that a rich family started this little town and that is why the names are all the same. I notice that the book store has a help wanted sign in the window. I need a job to keep my parents from wondering where I am getting all the money from. I don't completely trust them. As unreal as it may sound I have made enough money in my short amount of time that I have been trading stocks that I would never have to work again. I have worked hard to keep that a secret from my parents because I have the fear that they will take it. My parents have always been terrible with money and I do not want my future at risk because of their incompetence.

As I make my way into the bookstore I see that is a good size without being too much. The shelves look immaculate and I find myself falling in the love with the store. A man around my father's age walks up to me and smiles. I can tell this store is his life and he loves every second of it.

"May I help you find anything, Miss?" His smile is gentle and I can't help but smile back.

"Well yes and no. I saw that you were looking for help and also where is your classics section?" The man began to chuckle no doubt at my bluntness about it all.

"The classics are along the back left wall, and I am Gregory Henson owner of this fine establishment. Are you looking for a job miss?" He holds his hand out and I take it smiling. For some reason, this man has a very calming effect on me.

"Ophelia Harris. Yes, I am looking for a part time job for while I finish high school." He smiles again. I see a bubbly looking blonde come walking from the back and makes her way over to us.

"This is my niece Maggie who works at the weekends. I'm looking for someone to work Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from four to eight. Do you have any experience?" Both people stand there and stare at me like I am the answer to their collective prayers.