The Garden – Where Gnomes Live in Peace.

     “Greetings, Reginald,” Derrick said, picking up Jack and petting him on his head, “what do you need today?”
    “Another fishing net. Last catch tore a hole clean through it.”
    “Ah. Sorry to hear that. Well, you know where they are. Help yourself. Got some really nice ones in a few days ago.”
    “Good, I’ll take one of those.” Reginald said, picking up a very fine fishing net from one of the many shelves in the store.
    “Those normally cost around 10 gold,” he said, setting Jack down on the floor, “but I’ll sell it to you for 5. Sound good?”
    “Sounds good to me, Derrick.” Reginald replied with satisfaction, setting the net down on the counter, and pulling out the money
    While counting the money, Derrick said, “I take it you’re getting paid well for the fish?”
    “Oh, yes, definitely. They pay a lot for ‘em up in the city. That reminds me; I meant to ask ye, how’s business been going for ye?”
    “Not very good, I’m afraid.” Derrick replied with a sigh, “Not many people have been coming through here as of late. And if anyone is coming, it’s those big heroes who have no time to stop by here. Can barely afford to pay upkeep and buy food for me and Jack here.”
    “Ah, sorry to hear that…” Reginald looked over his shoulder, and then turned around and said, “Here, take this,” Reginald said with a smile, sliding 5 more coins across the counter, “Keep it. I have no need for it. I get all the food I need from fishing.”
    “Thanks, Reginald. You’re very kind.” Derrick said, pocketing the 5 gold coins.
    “Well,” Reginald said, picking up the fishing net, “I better get back to the lake. The fish be calling. Farewell, Derrick.” He started to walk out the door.
    “See you when you come back here again.” Derrick called after him.
    “I reckon you will.” Reginald said, as he walked off into the woods.
    The rest of the day when by just like any other day, with an occasional traveler here and there, maybe a farmer, but not much in the way of customers. Soon, night approached, and Derrick began to lock up the store. He slid the shutters shut on the windows and he locked the door. He doused the candle in the front room, and went upstairs to his bedroom. He opened the door, and then promptly turned around and locked it. He yawned, took off his shirt, sat down on the bed, and moved to douse the bedside candle, when he suddenly heard frantic scratching at the door. He unlocked the door, and let Jack in. Jack hopped up on the bed, and quickly found his favorite spot, which was right at the end of the bed, right by Derrick’s feet. He walked around “his” spot a couple of times, and then plopped down, and curled up into a ball. Derrick doused the candle and he lie down in bed. He was soon lulled into a deep sleep by the crickets and nightingales.