20 January 2013
I think this is the first time I've ever walked into a bookshop. I mean, I've read books and all, but I'd normally tell my mum to get me books from the library. I get some strange looks from the other customers, that are obviously thinking, Aibileen in a bookshop? Aibileen Murphy??? You're kidding, right?
I can almost see their brains racing, trying to figure out the paradox - Aibileen in a bookshop, it is more likely it is her long lost twin. People mutter behind the shelves, glancing at me every few seconds. When I pick up a creative writing help book they sigh. Definitely her long lost twin. I go up to pay and the man at the counter smiles at me. I never get smiles from adults. That's just the way it is. " So, are you new in town then? You look awfully like that little brat, Aibileen."
I give him my full on glare, but I decide to go along with the story, seeing as I like having my bad reputation, because it gives me privacy. I don't want anyone going around, knowing my business.
" Well, a lot of people are saying that, but I'm not related to her at all. From the stories I've heard she sounds like a nightmare!" I actually giggle at this, the first time I've done so since I was about 2. Even back then I gave the frostiest glares imaginable.
"I'm here on holidays with my parents, at home, my schools taken a weeks break." I can't believe he's buying this, I mean, how is there a random person out there who looks EXACTLY like me? And is in the same town as me? Who's school takes a weeks break, in the middle of the term? Well I suppose in their minds it's more likely than me going down to the bookshop, and buying a creative writing book at that. How thick are they? I hand him the money and walk out. I stomp back to my house, thoughts running through my head, maybe I should try and be nice, be good at school, be friendly. But then I frown. People would never believe me, would think I'm up to something.
I tell myself that I like the way things are, and that I don't want to change things, ever.
Chapter 2 - Aibileen • Opuss № I