Dean couldn't pinpoint how you managed to capture his attention, but you did. About five weeks ago, you started frequenting his record store. He initially thought you were either new to the area or had stumbled upon his shop by chance. At first, you were just another customer. Each time he offered help, you politely declined, saying you were just browsing. Over time, however, you became more than just another face. He began to notice your regular visits, even though you never bought anything. You'd listen to a few records and then leave.

Dean realized you had a pattern: Fridays at 5 PM, an hour before closing; Sundays around 3 PM; and occasionally on Wednesdays at 11 AM or 2 PM. This consistency piqued his curiosity. But today was different—it was Thursday, a day you never visited. As you walked in wearing casual clothes, you seemed more downcast than usual. You took a seat on the small forest green chair near the cassette player, selected a CD, and put on the headphones. From his usual spot behind the counter, Dean watched you and thought, ‘She must be having a bad day.’ His curiosity about you grew, wondering what had brought you in on this unusual day.