The Secrets in Magnolia

Chapter 1: Heavy Heart

The town was bustling, as the sun rose higher and higher over head, casting its blue light onto the city. People were rushing to work, or setting up the farmers market, or they were like me. I was on my way to the Magnolia Venue, which is the gate that leads to the open world. I was getting ready to go on an adventure, though I didn't really have an objective of any sort. Magnolia was seeming smaller every passing day, and it began to feel like I was trapped in a little bubble.
I walked through the busy streets and almost got knocked over more than a few times. I don't have many friends here either, so there wasn't much reason to stay.
What if I can never come back?
I was already headed straight towards the gate as the rainbow dawn had left and our sunrise faded into deep blue skies.
"Heading off already?"
"Yes Mr. Brookhaven. I'm beginning to feel a little claustrophobic here, though your bakery never ceases to bring me into a whole world," I say to Mr. Brookhaven. It's true that his bakery seems to turn a small shop corner into a paradise, with decorated cookies and cakes, and the little oak tables with cushiony chairs, facing towards the large windows, making it feel like the busy streets were in another plane.
"I still don't get why I'm Mr.Brookhaven. I'm only 2 years senior to you;please, just call me Lynn. Oh, and one more thing before you leave," he says as he puts a set of cookies into wax paper, then into a small wooden box. He seems to pause before slipping a piece of paper from the pocket on his shirt into the box and clasping it shut. "I thought you might be leaving soon, but I want you to have something to remember me by for the road," he says, sliding the box across the counter.
"Oh how sweet, thankyou, but I can't take this," I say pulling my messenger bag further up my shoulder. "These are cookies, from your shop! If I have one then I'll never be able to leave! I'll just keep coming back for more," I say, and he gives a flustered smile, his hand scratching the back of his head.
"I'm flattered, but I insist. If what I'm hearing is correct you don't plan on coming back anytime soon, do you?" He says, his smile almost unnoticeably faltering before he presses the box towards me.
I go to Lynn Brookhaven's shop weekly, and over time we've become acquainted. He's been a good friend to me ever since I got here, he even gave me a free cupcake the first time I came in, and completely welcomed me, which is a little surprising, considering how odd a down-pointed eared, freckle faced, dark haired girl might seem to a city who's main population consists of brightly colored haired people, with tan skin and ears that always perk up. A few people gave me odd stares the first time they saw me, and I wouldn't blame them! I practically look like a zombie compared to them, but Lynn... He didn't give it a second thought. He's been a wonderful friend this whole time, and I'll miss him when I leave. This small shop holds a banquette of happy memories for me.
What if the next town is worse? How much will you regret leaving after the gate closes?
"It's true. I really don't plan on coming back, as with every other city. I guess my thirst for adventure will never be satisfied. I will, truly, miss you though. I really hope we meet again someday," I say, but my voice is hoarse, and the words are quiet. I take the box, and am about to say goodbye before I remember what's in my pocket. I pull out the watch and give the intricate silver engravings one last look, taking in every detail, before pressing it into his hand. He always fawned over how delicate and detailed it was, when we chatted every dew covered morning. I've had it for at least half of my life, when I got it from my birthplace, but I want him to remember me too. I want him to remember me if I see him, though in my heart I know this is probably the last time I'll ever talk to him, in the little cafe, on the corner of Blossom Street, ever again.
His eyes widen before his hand closes over it, and he holds it close.
"I have no doubt that every time I see it I'll think of all the weekends you spent here," he almost whispers. I have to blink away tears. I said I didn't have any friends here. We give each other one last goodbye, and at the last second I'm surprised when he walks out from behind the counter and gives me a hug. I hug him back and try to remember the few seconds. My dearest acquaintance , and the best baker I've ever met.
"I'm always here in the morning. Please travel safe" he whispers, almost innaudibly. I nod, and leave the shop, trying my hardest not to look back.
I don't have friends,

I only have one.

Hello my precious pineapples! Sorry for breaking the atmosphere but while I'm finishing my first full story, I decided to make a little tale on the side, which I probably won't update consistently unless you want me to. If you want me to write more chapters and continue the story, just be sure to comment, and feel free to leave suggestions for the story, as the concept is very laid back and open right now.
-Captain🍍