Tom adjusted the display of apples for the third time that morning, his hands working absentmindedly as he watched the village square through the greengrocer's window. He'd started early doors but always knew what time this time of day was without even looking at the clock. His dad, busy stacking crates of carrots, gave him a knowing glance but said nothing.
She was out there again, laughing and twirling in the sunlight. Rosie Cartwright, the brightest spark in their sleepy little village. She'd come down the lane and darted between shop fronts, her auburn curls bouncing as she waved at Mr. Stokes, the butcher, and cheekily stole a flower from Mrs. Wilkins' garden stall. Everyone adored her. She was the politest rebel they ever knew.
Tom sighed, brushing his hands on his apron. She'd been coming into the shop every day for weeks now, always full of chatter and smiles.
The bell over the door jingled, and there she was, bringing the scent of summer and mischief with her.
"Morning, Tom!" she chirped, leaning on the counter. "Got any Coca-Cola for me today?"
He fumbled with the crate, pulling out a cold bottle and placing it in front of her. He had hidden one in the back of the cooler earlier knowing that she would be in later. The last thing he'd want is to ever see her disappointed.
"Here you go. Have my discount too" he said with a shy grin, knowing full well his dad was watching from the corner.
Rosie tilted her head, her green eyes sparkling. "You spoil me, you know that?"
Tom shrugged, his cheeks reddening. "Don't tell anyone. All the girls will want me for my discount"
She laughed, tossing him a coin and pocketing the bottle. "Your secret's safe with me, Mr. Greengrocer. I won't let on to my supplier"
As she danced back out the door, Tom's dad chuckled, shaking his head. "You've got it bad, lad," he said, clapping Tom on the shoulder.
Tom and Rosie had known each other since they were kids. There isn't any other way to describe her other than that she is just Rosie and he was always amazed by here.
Tom smiled, his gaze fixed on the spot where Rosie had just been. "Yeah," he said quietly. He words then turned to a whisper as he turned back to the apples. "How could I not"