A Friend

ZOE walked towards the counter. “Hi,” she greeted the cashier.

The cashier smiled brightly as if she was already expecting her visit.

“You must be Zoe, right?”

Zoe pressed her lips together and smiled as she nodded.

“I’m Cindy,” the girl said and extended her hand.

Zoe then reached for it and shook her hands. “Aunt Millie told me that I can—”

“Yes, yes. She reminded us. Anyway, it would be best if you met our baker,” she said and gestured for her to follow.

She then walked around and stepped in front, following the lead of Cindy.

Cindy opened the door, and the aroma boosted soon as they got inside.

“Mr. Reynolds…” Cindy called the baker, who was currently mashing a huge dough on the left side of the baking room.

“Over here, Cindy,” he said.

Zoe’s forehead knitted when she heard that deep voice.

Cindy turned to her. “Come on. You need to meet that awesome old man,” she said and laughed.

“I heard you, Cindy!” It was Mr. Reynolds.

Cindy snickered and covered her mouth.

Zoe couldn’t help