Stepping into the small convenience store, you tugged the glass door open, the familiar chime echoing through the quiet space. A quick glance at the counter made you pause for a moment. Sitting there, with a book in hand and a focused expression, was someone you didn’t recognize. A new face. Choosing to brush it off, you walked past the counter and headed straight to the back, where your dad was busy crouched near a shelf, squinting at a few expired goods.

“Who’s that?” you asked, your curiosity finally getting the better of you.

Without glancing up, your dad replied bluntly, “New part-timer. Name’s Jay. Now go grab your uniform and help me with this. We’ve got a lot to do today.”

Your eyebrows shot up in surprise. Jay? That name felt oddly familiar. As you turned to look over your shoulder, the realization hit you. It was him. The so-called nerd from your class who spent most of his time at the library. The guy who always sat in the front row, answering every question with ease. And now here he was, clad in the store’s uniform, helping a customer with their purchase before settling back into his spot behind the counter, his book open and his eyes scanning the page with laser-like focus.

You couldn’t help but stare for a moment longer, baffled. Of all people, you hadn’t expected to see Jay working here. Still, you decided not to dwell on it too much. You had your own job to do. Letting out a small sigh, you grabbed your uniform and went to the back to change, your thoughts still lingering on the unexpected sight of your classmate.