Attraction (18+)

The Encounter

Milo Garner, with his striking blue eyes, fluffy brown hair, and creamy white complexion, stood at five feet three inches tall. He was dressed in a white button-up shirt, a black zip-up jacket, denim shorts, black Vans, clean white socks, and a white hat. Milo worked as a bakery clerk alongside his best friend, Cora Collins, whose long orange curls, freckles, light blue eyes, and pale skin made her a vibrant presence. Cora wore a white button-up shirt, black dress pants, brown shoes, and hidden black socks. Although they were usually required to wear uniforms, their attire was somewhat improvised today due to the insecurity of their storage lockers.

"Milo, that hot guy is staring at you," Cora whispered, startling him.

Milo glanced around and spotted a tall man with hazel eyes, blonde hair, and a muscular build. He was dressed in a black tank top, baggy blue shorts, and New Balance shoes. Milo shrugged, unfazed. "Again, Cora. I can't feel physical attraction."

"That must be boring," she giggled, giving him a friendly pat. "You should talk to him. He seems interested."

"He's probably just looking because I work here," Milo said, rolling his eyes and moving to attend to other customers.

"You're no fun. I'll introduce you. Be back soon." Cora started to leave, but Milo grabbed her shoulder.

"Please don't," he whispered, his anxiety evident.

"We can leave if you're uncomfortable," Cora said gently, before heading over to George. Milo turned back to his tasks, trying to focus on the bakery's bustling activity.

Cora approached George with a bright smile. "Hi, I'm Cora Collins. Looking for something, or someone?" She winked playfully.

George chuckled. "Just browsing. The cupcakes look delicious."

"They taste as good as they look," Cora assured him.

"Oh, sorry. I'm George Smith," he said, flashing a friendly grin.

"Nice to meet you, George. This is my friend Milo Garner." Cora gestured towards Milo, who was preoccupied with adjusting a ceiling light. "Milo?"

Milo snapped out of his distraction. "Sorry. Hi, George. What can we get for you today?"

"Just browsing, but I might try one of those cupcakes," George said, eyeing the display with interest.

"Good choice," Milo said. "We have a popular peanut butter swirl."

George's eyes brightened. "Peanut butter swirl sounds great. I'll take one."

Milo nodded. "One peanut butter swirl coming right up."

As Milo handed over the cupcake, George said, "Thanks, Milo. I'm sure I'll enjoy it."

"Definitely," Cora added. "Have a great day, George."

As George left, Cora turned to Milo with a playful grin. "See? That wasn't so bad."

Milo sighed in relief. "Thanks for pushing me."

"No problem," Cora said. "I'm always here for a nudge."

Milo chuckled. "Yeah, I know. Thanks."

"Back to work?" Cora suggested, and Milo nodded, feeling more at ease.

Later that evening, Milo drove home under the soft glow of the moonlight. His apartment, a blend of contemporary and classic styles with large, floor-to-ceiling windows reflecting the moon, came into view. He parked and exited with his dinner bag, but as he approached the front door, a woman stormed out, clearly upset.

The woman, Claire, had dark hair in a messy bun, a fitted black leather jacket, and dark jeans with frayed cuffs. She stomped away, her boots making sharp clacking sounds on the pavement.