Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the bakery, usually a source of comfort for him. Today, however, it only seemed to amplify the knot in his stomach. He’d seen her post on the local community forum. He had finally decided to act.

He saw her behind the counter, arranging pastries. He took a deep, shaky breath, trying to collect himself.

He stepped up, and waited in line.

When it was his turn, he spoke. "Hey, um... Jessica?"

She looked at him with a polite smile, but her eyes held no recognition. "I don't think so," she said, handing him his order.