One evening, sun cast long shadows in the bakery, the bell above the door jingled softly. My breath caught in my throat as I turned to see her – the woman I had convinced myself was stalking me for weeks now. She walked in with an air of familiarity, as if she belonged there, but her intent gaze pierced through me, sending a shiver down my spine.

"Can I help you with something?"

Summoning all my courage, I managed to ask her, my voice a mere whisper.