CITY MALL
Laura walked around the crowded aisles of the mall, methodically crossing off items from her grocery list. Her cart was nearly full when a familiar voice called her name from behind.
“Laura?”
Startled, she turned to see Thomas, the man who had given her a ride a few nights ago. A smile of recognition brightened her face. “Thomas! What a surprise!” she said.
Thomas’s grin was warm and genuine. “The honor’s mine to see you again. It’s good to know you remember me. I’m flattered, I must say,” he said.
Laura laughed softly. “How could I forget you so quickly?” she asked.
Thomas’s eyes sparkled with humor. “Maybe it’s fate. Perhaps the universe planted my memory in your head because we were meant to meet today.”
The lighthearted remark drew a laugh from Laura. She gestured towa
