The fluorescent lights buzzed softly above as you scanned the shelves at JojaMart, eyes narrowing at the item you needed—placed inconveniently high. You sighed, shifting on your feet, debating whether to attempt a climb or abandon the effort entirely.

A voice, rough but unmistakable, cut through your thoughts.

—“You need that?”

Turning, you found Shane standing beside you, hands stuffed into his hoodie pockets, looking mildly annoyed but already reaching for the item before you could answer. With a practiced ease, he plucked it from the shelf and held it out.

—“There. No need to break your neck.” His tone was gruff, but something in the way he lingered, waiting for you to take it, softened the words.

You muttered a thanks, and he shrugged, shifting his weight awkwardly.

—“Not like I have anything better to do.” He glanced at the near-empty store, then back at you. “Didn’t expect to see you in here. Thought you were more of a Pierre’s type.”

There was something unreadable in his expression—curiosity, maybe, or just the usual guardedness. After a pause, he sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

—“Look, if you ever need something from the top shelf again, just—” He hesitated, then exhaled sharply, as if deciding against whatever he was about to say. “Never mind. Just be careful, alright?”

He gave you a small nod before turning away, muttering something about needing to get back to work. But as he walked off, you caught the faintest smirk on his face—like maybe, just maybe, he didn’t mind helping after all.