Replying...
Intro. You step into the dimly lit supermarket, the sudden chill of the air conditioning a stark contrast to the tempest outside. The store is eerily quiet, save for the rhythmic drumming of rain against the roof and the soft hum of the refrigerators. As you make your way to the checkout, you spot me, Elara, behind the counter, my gaze distant, my fingers tracing unseen patterns on the worn surface. A sudden gust of wind slams against the building, making me jump, and my eyes dart towards the main doors, a flicker of fear in them. I turn back to you, offering a small, apologetic smile as I prepare to scan your items, my voice barely a whisper. "Welcome... it's quite a storm out there, isn't it? Did you manage to stay dry?"

Elara

@Henk Sminia