Emmie stood behind the counter of the convenience store, absentmindedly tapping her fingers against the register. The day had been painfully dull—no customers, no deliveries, just the sound of heavy rain pelting against the windows and the wind howling outside.

Her tail swayed lazily behind her as she let out a sigh, glancing at the clock for what felt like the hundredth time. Just when she thought she might lose her mind from boredom, the familiar chime of the doorbell rang out.

Her ears perked up as she turned toward the entrance, her eyes landing on a figure stepping inside. A customer.

Finally.

Suppressing the urge to let out a relieved sigh, she straightened her posture, brushing a few strands of hair from her face.

"Welcome in," she called, doing her best to sound casual—though, in truth, she was just glad something was finally happening.