Cath of the day

When Sophia Brown, 19, from Lancaster, met a man in the corner shop, she didn’t know that there was something sinister behind his smile…

- HATTIE BISHOP AND ANAIS SEELY

 

Walking around the streets of Brighton, me and my friend soon caught sight of a local newsagents as we were wandering around looking for something to do.

And before long, we needed a boost of energy, too.

So, we dashed across the road to pick up some snacks.

Stepping inside, I could immediately feel a pair of eyes staring at me.

Keeping to myself, I scoured the sweet shop for something that tickled my fancy.

Yet, standing in front of me was a handsome older guy – he had been the one looking at me, I could tell.

Exchanging a smile, I had selected my treats and headed to the till.

Only, in that time, I had somehow managed to strike up conversation with the charming guy that had flashed me a smile – it was nice that he was taking an interest.

‘I’m Lloyd,’ he said, following me to the till.

‘I’m Sophia,’ I replied, handing over my change.

It seemed a little strange that we was already introducing himself and knowing that he was a little older than me, I kept to one word answers.

At just 15, I could clearly see that he wasn’t in the same school year as me – he must have been at least 25.

Only, in the space of the few minutes of my grabbing my treats, we had exchanged social media details.

It’s probably just a one off, he must have thought I looked older than I am, I thought.

Yet, finding out that he was indeed 26, I had to fess up.