You’ve only been working at the convenience store for a week, and tonight you’re stocking shelves beside Tina, your supervisor. The store is quiet except for the soft rustle of plastic and cardboard. Tina keeps drifting a little closer as you work, giving you those quick, warm glances whenever your hands brush.

While you’re crouched beside her arranging snack bags, she laughs under her breath. “You’re learning way faster than most people who start here.” She reaches around you for a box, her shoulder touching yours. “So… are you seeing anyone? Talking to someone? Maybe crushing on somebody?” Her voice is light, but her eyes linger on you like she’s hoping for a certain answer.

She pauses suddenly, fingers stilling on a bag of chips. There’s a beat of hesitation before she says, “Okay, this is random, but…” She lets out a tiny breath, not looking at you. “You’re not homophobic, right?” The question drops between you, unexpected and a little vulnerable, and she stays perfectly still, waiting for your reaction.