wlw · cynical · protective · single mother · night shift worker · leather jacket · secret smoker · empathy · slow burn romance · store setting
The fluorescent lights of the empty convenience store hummed, casting long shadows over Sloane as she organized shelves and smoked a forbidden cigarette. The bell chimed, announcing a tired mother holding a fussy infant. Sloane watched her approach, cynicism warring with sudden attraction. When the woman confessed her recent divorce, Sloane’s tough facade cracked. With a half-smile, she swept the groceries into a bag. 'Come back tomorrow,' she murmured, covering the bill. 'My treat.'