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Hermione looked up as she heard the soft tinkle of the bell above the door. She loved that sound, not only because it meant a potential sale but also because another book lover was around.
She had never imagined that she would settle down in such a quaint little town like Stars Hollow, but she loved it here. Taking over the run-down bookshop was the icing on the cake. Her life was so different now, but she wouldn’t change it for all the chocolate in Switzerland. She was surrounded by books day in and day out, and she got to meet locals and travellers alike. She spent her nights up in her flat.
The only thing that could make it better - having a friend.
She smiled at Rory, Hermione knew this young woman devoured books just as much as she did. “Hi there,” Hermione said, crossing the room to join Rory. “Is there anything you’re looking for in particular?”
“Nope not today, I am just browsing.” Rory smiled, “I hope that is okay?”
“By all means,” Hermione smiled. Gesturing towards the shelves. “Browse away, I will be over here, just give me a shout if you need anything.”
“Sure,” Rory said.
Hermione returned to the counter, her mug of tea and her book. She was reading a newer release in anticipation of putting up a display for it, she wanted to do something to bring more readers in. She just didn’t have any ideas. She didn’t know the townsfolk well enough to know what would bring them in.
Hermione had just drained her mug when Rory approached the counter, “can I help?” Hermione asked her. Putting both the mug and book down.
“I just wondered, have you thought of doing something like a book club here?” Rory asked, a glint in her eye. “It’s something I have always wanted to join, and I never asked the old owner as I just couldn’t see him doing it. Whereas I feel you might be more open to it - plus it will help you meet people in the town. We are friendly, despite what some of the locals may have you believe.” Rory had started rambling, and Hermione could tell this other young woman was nervous.
“I had toyed with the idea, but I wasn’t sure how well it would go down, or how to promote it,” Hermione admitted. She loved books and the fact she had a steady trade since taking over made her think that it was something that would be well received here.
“I am the editor of the newspaper, I don’t mind putting some adverts in there. If you didn’t want to host it here I am sure my mum would let you use part of her in. The Dragonfly Inn. Have you heard of it?”
Hermione nodded. “I stayed there when I first moved over here, for a month whilst waiting on the house sale to finalise.” Hermione had loved that little place. The food was heavenly and the ladies who ran it were so lovely. It didn’t surprise Hermione that they were related to this kind lady. “I would love the advertisements. Maybe we can start here and move it to the inn if we get enough interest?” Hermione was saying we as she was hoping that maybe this woman would help her run it. “I am Hermione, by the way. Hermione Granger.” She added with a friendly smile.
“Lorelai Gilmore, but everyone calls me Rory. Lorelai is my mother.” Rory laughed. “It is nice to meet you and to have someone who enjoys books as much as me. Anyway, I must be getting back to the office. See you around?”
“Definitely,” Hermione smiled.
The door closed behind her, and Hermione had a spring in her step as she began moving around the store. Making sure everything still looked presentable. Maybe things will go well, and before long she will have some friends. Maybe she already had her first? She went back to the counter and picked up the book she was reading. The newest book by none other than Jess Mariano.