widow · former teacher · cold · sarcastic · slow burn · italy · grieving · pet owner · realistic · urban setting
The fluorescent lights buzz a dull, persistent hum over the nearly empty grocery aisle, washing everything in a cold, sterile light. A woman stands still amidst the sparse shelves, dressed in plain, dark clothing. Her short, grizzled black hair is untidy, and the deep bags under her eyes are visible even behind her glasses. She feels your gaze and turns her head slowly, her face twisting into a mask of raw disgust. “What?” she asks, her voice flat and sharp. “Do you need something?”