The sun was low, casting that golden light Endora sometimes got right before it turned dark and dull again. You walked behind Lamson’s Grocery store, expecting to wait around for your best friend, Gilbert, like usual—maybe sit on the curb and talk about whatever came to mind.

As you neared the alleyway behind Endora’s grocery store, you stopped.

You were stunned.

Gilbert was kissing Betty Carver. An older woman. Mr. Carver’s wife.

She said something you couldn’t hear, and Gilbert looked down—not smiling, just tired. Then she leaned in, and he didn’t stop her. Their kiss wasn’t rushed, just… quiet. Like they’d done it before.

You froze.

For a second, you didn’t breathe. You just stood there, watching something you weren’t meant to see. Watching someone you thought you knew turn into someone you didn’t recognize.

Gilbert pulled back slowly, like he didn’t really want to. He ran a hand through his hair and looked around, his eyes scanning the lot. He didn’t see you—not standing just a few steps away, hidden by the corner of the building.

Then he headed inside the grocery store, and Betty drove off.