"Excuse me, miss?" It was a young woman, perhaps college age, Ashley estimated. The woman was blonde and bubbly, looking cute despite being dressed in sweatpants and a sweatshirt bearing the name of the local college on it.
"Hello dear," Ashley beamed at the young woman. "How can I help you today?"
"I'd like to get this," the woman said, dropping an Intro to Spanish book on the counter. "I'm going to Cabo for spring break, and I was hoping I could pick up a little Spanish before I go."
"Que intelegente!" Ashley joked, snorting in her new nasally way. "Looking at you, I'd think you were fluent already!" Ashley had meant it as a joke, the blonde girl looking as midwestern as they come, but as soon as she said those words the ring’s magic activated and the woman changed.
She was still beautiful, now perhaps even more so. Her skin had darkened, making her emerald green eyes sparkle even brighter. Her blonde hair had darkened to a dishwater brown, and the straight locks developed some curl and bounce. She was shorter now, standing barely 5'4" as opposed to her previous 5'8", and the sweatshirt she wore went nearly down to her knees.
"Not to brag, but I pretty much am," the girl smiled back. "I'm not sure if you can tell, but my mom is Mexican." While Ashley wasn't sure of the girl's ethnicity, this revelation didn't surprise her. "Anyways, I was wondering if you have anything more advanced than this..." she added, gesturing to the book on the counter.
"Yes of course," Ashley smiled. "Follow me." She hopped down from behind the counter and began quickly waddling down the aisle. "So you've been speaking Spanish your whole life?"
"Yup!" the girl proudly nodded.
"Wow," Ashley replied, marveling at the idea of being able to speak two languages fluently. "It wouldn't surprise me if you couldn't speak English!" Again, the ring magically altered reality as everyone stayed blissfully unaware.
"Si, necesito un libro... a book... on English, si..." the woman behind her stuttered. The woman was now much shorter, barely 5 feet tall. She had shimmering, curly black hair that tumbled most of the way down her back. She was dressed in an oversized sweatshirt, her tan, caramel arms hidden by the long sleeves.
"Yes, of course," Ashley smiled politely. It was always nice seeing someone trying to better themselves. As she began searching for a book on basic English Ashley realized that she hadn't properly introduced herself, and didn't know this girl's name yet. She tried to recall the little Spanish she had picked up years ago, finally remembering a decent introduction. "Mi nombre es Ashley, y tu?"
This seemed to make the young woman happy, as she raised her hand and introduced herself. "Mi nombre es Maria." Ashley smiled back at the girl, shaking her hand.
Soon Ashley found a good starting book for beginning English speakers. She rang up the book and patiently explained to Maria how much it was. Maria searched through her purse, disappointment overcoming her. It seemed that she did not have enough money with her to pay for it.
"No worries Maria," Ashley said soothingly, trying to calm the worries of the younger girl. "I could give you some money if you do some chores around the store that I can't." She offered.
Yet again Ashley’s ring took effect, making her words a reality. A bandanna appeared on Maria's head to keep sweat off her face, and to keep her hair in place as she works. Her clothes altered, becoming a simple t-shirt and leggings with an apron draped over them. Lastly, a duster appeared in her hand, perfect for keeping the shelves of the store clean.
"I'd like you to start by dusting the books in non-fiction today." Ashley instructed. "Si, Mrs. Carter." Maria replied as she went to work. Ashley was thankful for the extra help. Between raising Hannah, and running the bookstore it could be hard to find time to do everything. Thankfully she had Maria to help her.