"Yeah," Colin replied, somewhat hesitantly.
"Where's the child's mother?" the shopkeeper asked, concern filling their eyes.
Colin thought for a moment and then casually responded, "She's unwell."
"Oh dear," the shopkeeper sighed sympathetically, their expression softening towards Colin.
This... a young father, caring for his sick wife and raising a daughter. What a plight!
Under the shopkeeper's inquisitive gaze, Colin hesitated to explain further and eventually gave up on it altogether.
After a bit of fuss, he finally completed the purchase. The little shop wasn't far from his apartment, so he decided to walk back.
As he walked with his purchases, Colin couldn't shake off a feeling that something wasn't right.
A sensation... as if someone was following him.
He slowed his pace, fu
