Mid‑morning brought a steady stream of regulars. Cole stayed at the register ringing up orders while Elara moved between aisles restocking and helping people find items. They kept their usual safe distance and spoke only about store work just like every day now.
Mrs. Hale came in like she did every Tuesday. She knew both of them well from years of shopping here. She stopped near the snack aisle where Elara was working and smiled in that friendly familiar way. She waited until no other customers stood close then leaned in a little.
“Hello dear,” she said softly. “I have a small favor to ask. Would you mind passing this quick note over to Cole later? It is just about a community event he helps with sometimes. Nothing complicated at all.”
She held out a folded slip of paper. In the past El
