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My frustration mounts, making me feel like a caged animal desperate to break free. I pace the length of my apartment, cursing myself for being too weak to bridge the chasm that separates us. I long to touch her hand, to hear her laughter in a quiet moment shared just between us. But every time I see her, my courage crumbles.
Maybe if I just tried harder, I tell myself, repeating the mantra that has become my own personal hell.Maybe then she'd notice me.
Determined to change myself for the better, I throw myself into a rigorous workout routine. Every morning before the sun even rises, I'm out pounding the pavement, sweat pouring down my face as I push myself to run faster, harder. The burning in my lungs and the ache in my muscles become my penance, the price I pay for being so unworthy of Emily's attention.
In addition to the physical improvements, I focus on building my confidence. I practice speaking to strangers at the grocery store, striking up conversations with people who have no idea of the turmoil inside me. Each time I manage to get through an interaction without stammering or blushing, it feels like a small victory, a step closer to becoming the person Emily deserves.
Soon, my life revolves around the anticipation of seeing her, of orchestrating our encounters just right. I find solace in knowing her schedule, learning when she takes her breaks or has moments of free time. My heart races each time I walk by the candy shop, the smell of sugar and chocolate filling my nostrils, and the undeniable pull of her presence gripping me.
I stand outside the candy shop now, my heart pounding as I muster the courage to approach Emily. The vibrant colors of the treats on display seem to reflect her infectious cheerfulness. With each deep breath, I inhale the sweet scent that lingers around the store, a reminder of the alluring woman inside.
I take in a deep breath and force my legs into motion.
Entering the candy shop, I find Emily arranging jars filled with glistening jellybeans on the shelves. Her golden hair cascades down her back, as though it's spun from sunlight itself.
I walk up behind her and just as I'm finally getting ready to speak, a sudden commotion interrupts me. A young boy has knocked over an entire shelf of candy, sending it crashing to the floor in a cacophony of clattering glass and spilled sweets.
"Are you okay, sweetie?" Emily exclaims, rushing to the boy's side. My heart sinks, feeling like a deflated balloon, as I watch her tend to the child with the same compassion and grace that I so admire.
"Please be careful next time," she says gently, helping him up and brushing off the stray candies clinging to his clothes.
I glance at the fallen shelf, seeing my opportunity to speak with Emily slipping away like sand through my fingers. Desperation floods my chest like a tidal wave, threatening to drown me in its depths.
I retreat to a corner of the candy shop. My heart races like a wild stallion, each beat drumming against my chest, demanding to be heard. As the minutes tick by, anticipation coils within me like a serpent preparing to strike.
And then motherfucking Carter breezes through the doorway. My hands ball into fists and I storm out of the shop before I lose it completely.
CHAPTER6
Emily
The door chimes,announcing another customer's arrival. My gaze lifts from the glass counter filled with an assortment of chocolates and candies in every shape and size imaginable, their sweet aromas blending into a symphony that fills the air. A familiar face graces the entrance, and I smile at him politely.
"Good afternoon, Carter," I say cheerfully, my heart fluttering beneath my uniform as if it knows his intentions better than my mind does. But I keep my composure, treating him like any other customer who walks through the door.
"Emily," he greets me with a nod, his eyes twinkling as they always do when he sees me. "I could use some help selecting a treat for my niece."
"Of course!" I exclaim, stepping out from behind the counter to guide him through the colorful displays. "How old is she?"
"Seven," he replies, and I can't help but notice how he lingers beside me, perhaps closer than necessary.
"Ah, perfect! We just got in a new shipment of unicorn-shaped lollipops that would make her day," I suggest, maintaining my professional demeanor.
"Those sound delightful," Carter agrees, his voice like velvet draped over my ears. Carter is an attractive man, and I suspect he wants more from me, but I don't know. I'm just not into him that way, so instead of letting his words wrap around me, I focus on helping him choose the perfect treats.
As we complete the transaction, Carter's fingertips graze mine when I hand him the bag, but I refuse to let his touch send shivers down my spine. He's just another customer to me—no matter how charming he is.
"Have a great day, Carter," I say with a bright smile, pushing away any thoughts of what lies beneath his charming exterior.
"Thank you, Emily. You too," he replies, his gaze lingering on me for an extra beat before he leaves the shop.
"Emily, can I talk to you for a minute?" my boss calls from the back of the store.
"Of course," I reply, curiosity piqued. I follow him into his cramped office, where the scent of peppermint and old books fills the air.
"Emily, I've been thinking about retiring soon," he begins, his voice like worn leather. "And I wanted to ask if you'd be interested in taking over the business."
"Me?" My heart leaps with excitement, soaring on wings made of candy wrappers and sugar-coated dreams. Yet, buried beneath it is that hidden layer of caution, warning me not to get ahead of myself. "Are you sure?"
