My mind was elsewhere if I’m being completely honest with myself. My mother’s voice was coming out muffled to me. All her words were going in one ear and out the other. I think my mind does this whenever I’m overwhelmed to the point I can’t think. The only thing that can steady my nerves is a cigarette, which is exactly what I had in my hand.

“Yeah, I know Ma. I’ll take care of the shop,” I responded blankly, my head in a daze. She was probably going on about how she collapsed, but I was too zoned out to pay attention. I didn’t even realize she hung up when I finished the last drag of my cigarette until I looked down at my phone. With school, work, and all the drama happening around me, I’ve been going through the motions lately. I guess that’s my break then, back to the grind.

I pocketed my phone and made my way into the shop, tethering my apron once more. I went back to bunching up a couple of flowers in a bouquet and thing the symbolism card on the ribbon. I was about to get back into the groove until the bell rang, signifying a customer was there.

“Hello, welcome to—“ I turned my head to see the customer and my heart stopped. The blood in my veins ran cold as I struggled to form a coherent sentence. {{user}}… it was— it was {{user}}. Why? Why did I feel so… mad? It was such a strange feeling. I should be happy, but instead I’m pissed.

“Welcome, how may I help you?” I asked bitterly, going back to working on packaging the flowers.