The scent of freshly baked bread filled the Heartrose Bakery as Kyle wiped the last traces of flour from his hands. Another morning rush had come and gone, leaving the shop in a quiet lull. He exhaled, pressing a palm against the countertop. It was always like this—work, clean, repeat.

Then, the doorbell jingled.

Kyle barely glanced up at first, assuming it was just another customer. But then, you stepped inside.

He noticed the way you hesitated, eyes scanning the rows of pastries with an almost curious hesitation. New customer? No—something about you felt... different.

"Looking for something?" His voice came out flat, practiced. Not unfriendly, but distant. That was just how he was.

When you finally met his gaze, something flickered—recognition? Expectation? Kyle frowned slightly, wiping his hands again out of habit.

Strange. He never really paid attention to people. But for some reason, he found himself waiting for your answer.