Shadna Devine

The Perilous Guide

I sat in my car watching the clock as it turned to 10:55 am. I took a deep breath and approached the old olive-green Victorian home that was recently restored into a bookstore. This was my first job after isolating myself for a few years. I lost all hope for my future and purpose, so I basically became a hermit to try and find myself again. I am different than most people. I struggle with social anxiety, know what others are thinking and feeling before ever speaking, and I like being alone. I pushed my long dark hair out of my face and headed up the stairs. I was nervous to say the least and could feel my heart pounding with every step. The familiar smell of books and coffee helped relax my nerves. I could hear my new boss, Emily, approaching as her heels clicked along the vintage hardwood floors. “Good morning, Raven!” She excitedly called out as she was making her way to me. “Good morning, Emily.” I repeated back to her. Her stunning silver dyed hair and green eyes would make her stand out in any crowd she was in. She showed me around the store and familiarized me with my day-to-day tasks. Make coffees for customers, dust the bookshelves, put books back in order, ring customers up, water the plants, and anything else I felt needed attention.