I'm Not Okay (VALERIA :D)

Supplies, something that I’m not all that comfortable to go get for my father, but it was part of the job. That’s what my father tells me every day. The last thing I want to do is go to such a public place. Half the time, I think my dad makes me go out in order to try and socialize. He knows I don’t have any friends at school, but that’s how I like it. I can do my studies and not be distracted from my homework. At least, that’s what I tell myself. I’m not lonely, right?

I approach one the usual booths and put my usual fake smile on my face. The man in the booth greets me with a bright friendly smile asking the usual questions about my father and if I have a boyfriend or not yet. ”No, I don’t have a boyfriend… not really into boys right now. They would distract me from my school work.” The man gives and understanding nod, and says that he’s proud of me, etc. I don’t know if it as great as all that, but every time I say that to someone they reply with the same thing. He hands me my father’s order and I quickly pay. “Thank you, have a nice day!” I say in my usual professional manner before leaving to go to the next booth.

It’s hot today, probably why I decided to wear something other than my school uniform or the scrubs I’m usually in at my father’s office. For once, I’m able to wear one of my bright blue tops and black skirts. For once, my long hair is pulled back to the side in a side-low-ponytail. It was a lot more comfortable than leaving it down all day. I rarely ever put it up, but when I do… its usually a very hot day, like today.

I make it to my next stop, and the same as before is repeated just by a woman this time around. Not much excitement, not that I want or need any. The Hunger Games was more excitement then I’d ever need. I just pray I’m not chosen during the District 6 Reaping. The thought of me being in the games… it unlocks fear, something I don’t like feeling. Quickly, I continue my shopping doing absolutely anything to distract myself.

Now there was a few things that I definitely couldn’t tolerate. Those were, someone who “accidently” bumps into you in order to talk to you, having the groceries – that had a few breakable objects inside – knocked out of her grasp, and… most importantly, having the person who did so oh so obviously mock an apology. I look at the spilled bag, my mouth slightly open probably due to the fact that I’m in utter shock and embarrassment. Luckily, it seemed as if nothing was broken, so as I ignore the pleas of apology in my direction, I get on my knees to start picking everything up.

Finally, my dark eyes rise to meet the face of a girl that I haven’t really seen before. A frown graces my features in utter confusion because I know nearly everyone in this side of the District. The fact that I met someone I don’t know is a bit astonishing. I had to admit, she wasn’t bad looking… I just wasn’t expecting to meet someone I’ve never met before. Shaking my mind back to the task at hand, I calm my inner confusion, anger, and annoyance replacing it with my usual feign smile. ”No no, it’s my own fault for not watching where I was going. Thank you for helping.” I quickly reply.

As I place the last jar of olives back into my shopping bag, I stand and started to dust off my black skirt. One thing I hate about black, you can see every bit of dirt and lint on it. It was better my skirt than the items my father told me to fetch. With the fake smile, I nod to the girl. Maybe it wouldn’t be such a bad idea to make small talk. Besides, this was a stranger… ”I don’t think I’ve seen you around here. Are you from another part of the District or…?” The open ended question game the girl an easy enough way to answer.

”Can we walk and talk, I need a few more things before I return to the hospital.” I say casually, or as casually as my professional nature will allow. I quickly make my way to the next booth my father wanted me to go to and my favorite by far, the herbal booth. I could spend all day in there… and all my money. I greet the store keeper before looking at the long list her father gave her. ”So sage, rosemarie, both fresh and dry lavender, rose petals, various oils…” I continue to read the list out loud to myself, before glancing to the girl. ”I apologize, I have introduced myself. I’m Valeria Rose.” I say with an extended hand in order to shake her hand.