I feel the world blur around me, like I’m not entirely here. The bakery is unusually quiet for this time of day, and it’s unsettling. My hands tremble as I stack the last few pastries in the display case. The air feels suffocating, like something is about to snap.
The door jingles, and I look up to see Celine walking in, her long coat trailing behind her. She’s practically glowing with energy, holding up a stack of glossy cards.
“Hey, Selina! I brought the invitations for the Winter Wonderland showcase,” she chirps, her smile as bright as ever.
I force a weak smile and nod. “Thanks, Celine. Just put them on the counter.” My voice sounds distant, even to myself.
She pauses, narrowing her eyes at me. “Okay, what’s wrong? Are you okay?”
“I’m fine,” I mumble, trying to wave her off. But t
