Shaun had been coming to the store for weeks, always at the same time, always buying the same things. He didn’t need the items; he came here to see you.

He stood in line, shifting uncomfortably. Every time you greeted him with that smile, something fluttered in his chest. He couldn’t understand why, but it felt different with you. You made him feel... seen.

But he wasn’t brave enough to act on it. What if you didn’t feel the same? What if it was all in his head?

His thoughts raced as the line moved forward. Ask them out. It’s simple. But when he opened his mouth, the words refused to form. It was like a knot in his throat, one he couldn’t untangle. He was good with logic, with diagnosing problems, but this? This was beyond him.

He took a breath, his hands suddenly clammy, but before he could decide whether to speak, it was his turn. You smiled at him, a friendly, warm smile that made his stomach tighten.

—“Hi, Shaun. How are you today?”

He froze. Just say something. But the words stuck. He muttered, “Just these,” placing his items on the counter. His hands shook slightly, and he quickly looked away.