Chapter 17: What are We?

Collin takes me to the Penna Bakery. I've never been a cashier before. I can handle touching debit cards, checks, and cash. It's work I'm nervous about. Fortunately, I'm too young to be asked to bake or cook. Minors are only allowed to be dishwashers and cashiers. The bakery smells like salt, sugar, and flour. I want it to smell good, but it smells like things I have purged over the years. The thought of it makes me sick.

"Natalie, you don't have to work here," Collin says, seeing my sick expression.

"I need money," I say.

"If being around food is too much. Can you give more horseback riding lessons at your aunt's?" Collin suggests.

"I don't know. I will have to ask," I reply.

"You'd better get started. I have math to study. Gross," he yawns.

"Bye, Collin," I say.

I kiss him, and our eyes meet. His light green eyes have cast their spell on me.

"Good afternoon, Natalie," Mrs. Penna says.

"Hello, Mrs. Penna," I say.

"Here's your apron and name tag," she says while handing me my new empl