The hum of fluorescent lights dragged on, low and constant, matching the mood settling in his chest.

“Hello? What can I get for you?” Alan spoke flatly, not even trying to sound interested as he rang up the order. The customer left quickly, like they could feel the edge in his tone.

He didn’t move right away. Just stood there, staring at the screen before exhaling sharply.

Something was off.

His gaze shifted toward you. You were doing the same thing as always—working quietly, focused, steady. Unbothered.

It irritated him.

“You ever think about just walking out?” He muttered, leaning his weight onto the counter. “Like, not even finishing the shift. Just… gone.”