By Lucia Andronache

I walked into the shop and saw a notice on the counter, so I walked over.

Taking one in hand, I scanned through it and a little notice caught my eye. As I read it, I knew that this was what I had been waiting for.

“Shepherd Needed Urgently!”

Over the past few weeks, there have been reports of sheep being stolen.

If you are needing work, come guard the town’s sheep!

To get the job, come to Farmer Lane and ask for Mr. Wilbur.

Protect the sheep!

Immediately, I turned around and ran out the door, heading to the alleyway.

As soon as I skidded into the alleyway, my mother looked up from her washing and stared in shock. I smiled because usually I didn’t come home this early with news.

“What’s happening, Daniel?” my mother asked, getting to her feet.

“I think I found a job! May I take it?” I asked, breathless with delight.

“Oh my, Daniel, just be back in time for vespers!” my mother said, smiling.

“Thank you so much!” I said and backpedaled out of the alleyway.

As I ran down the sidewalk, another boy came running at me quite sharply.

I dodged around him and his gang. Finally, after a few minutes, I turned onto Farmer Lane where they stopped and gaped.

“Hullo, Daniel! What do you want?” Mr. Wilbur asked as I skidded to a stop.

“I came about the job, sir.” I said, breathing hard from running.

“Oh! Of course. You’re the first one so, it’s yours.” Mr. Wilbur said.

“Thank you, sir! May I start now?” I asked excitedly.

“Right now? What about vespers?” Mr. Wilbur asked, curiously.

“I’ll only work till four today, sir. When I’m done, I’ll head to church.” I said.

“Alright then. If it’s only till four.” Mr. Wilbur said, and I thanked him politely.

As soon as the sheep saw me enter, they all came trotting over to me.

I laughed with good humor. I laughed again and knew that the sheep would be safe with me!