𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐨 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 || 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐢 𝐀

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟔 : 𝐖𝐞?

I exhaled heavily, scanning the groceries with a weary gaze. My hands moved mechanically, placing each item into a worn plastic bag. Just another day, another dollar at the Local Store – my humble domain.

The fluorescent lights above hummed a monotonous tune, casting an unforgiving glare on the tired faces surrounding me. Shoppers stood patiently by their carts, waiting in line for checkout, their eyes fixed on phones or lost in thought.

My mind wandered to my own struggles, the weight bearing down on me. Ryan's controlling grip, the constant fear, the desperate longing for escape.

As I bagged the last item, a customer's gentle smile caught my attention. For an instant, our eyes locked, and I felt a spark of connection.

But it was fleeting.

The checkout line inched forward, and a girl with chestnut-brown hair and wire-rimmed glasses approached, her cart rattling behind her. Her smile illuminated the drab store, a ray of sunshine piercing the fluorescent glare.

As she unloaded her items onto the conveyor belt, she launched into a breezy conversation. "Wow, I love this store's sales! I swear, I save so much money here. How's your day going?"

I replied with brief, courteous nods and murmurs, my hands moving on autopilot as I scanned her items.

"Thanks for checking me out," she said with a laugh. "I'm Hange, by the way."

Hange's smile widened as she rummaged through her bag. "Hey, I'm having a party at my place this weekend. You look like you could use some relaxation time." She handed me a colorful invitation card.

I hesitated, unsure. "Thanks, but I don't think I can make it."

Hange's eyes sparkled persistently. "Come on, it'll be fun! You seem like you could use a break from... whatever's going on." Her gaze lingered, inviting trust.

I shook my head, but she pressed the card into my hand.

"Just think about it, okay? You deserve a night off."

Her words struck a chord. No one had shown concern for me in a long time.

As Hange disappeared into the crowd, I examined the card. The address printed on it sparked curiosity - an affluent neighborhood notorious for its grand estates and manicured lawns.

I furrowed my brow, uneasy.

Ryan's possessive grip on my life made me wary of outsiders, especially those from privileged circles. Yet, Hange's warmth and genuine smile lingered in my mind.