The room felt too small.
It had always been my safe place, but today the walls seemed closer than usual, the air heavier. I couldn't sit still. Staying there alone made my chest tighten, so I left early for my shift, hoping the change in scenery would help.
It didn't.
This wasn't the first time I had felt this way. The bartender asked me about it again, but unlike before, I knew that no amount of talking was going to make me feel better.
It wasn't just the bartender who had regulars. I had gotten my own share of admirers, mostly youngsters, who asked if I was okay after catching a glimpse of my gloomy expression.
I cheered myself up by remembering Alex's promise to return in a month. Alex had never lied to me. If there was something he didn't want to say, he stayed silent instead. Not like me.
I couldn't help but chuckle at that thought, though it was quickly followed by a heavy sigh.
The doorbell rang.
