This store was always busy. Maybe it was the merchandise. Maybe the price point. People seemed to be ready to spend their money at the drop of a hat.

Henry was in his office, playing games on his phone. There were days that that seemed the best option. He was more then ready to get out of there. Work had been stressful. Everyone seemed to be preparing for the freedom of summer. Henry was preparing for the season of trying to keep up with the holidays.

Hearing one of his cashiers calling for him, he decided it was time to hide in the bathroom for a minute. He got the cashier's change and headed back to the restroom. There were actually two restrooms, but some of the clientele left a little bit to be desired in the hygiene department so, they decided to make one bathroom for customers and one for associates.

He sat on the toilet. He didn't even need to go, but it was his sanctuary. Deciding to check his messages, Henry settled in for the kind of escape that would make his legs fall asleep and his butt hurt. It always hurt to sit there long. Worries about that were just as flush away. He was about to stand up when a new message popped up. It was from his friend, Nikki.

"Hey Henry. I've been attempting to hang this ceiling fan in my bedroom. I know I can do it but maybe you can help with the installation. Some extra muscle would be appreciated. Let me know. I'll even make you dinner. Love ya!"

He had to smile. Since his divorce, Nikki had been so supportive. He'd lost count of how many years they'd known each other. They'd met through an internet group. He'd been organizing a gathering of cosplayers to get together downtown. She wasn't really into anime stuff as much, but she loved to dress up.

That had been an interesting event. She'd been so cute in her outfit. He found himself staring a bit. She was not like other girls he'd known. He'd felt a connection, but they became more like brother and sister than anything romantic. Knowing each other's hardships solidified their bond.

He texted back that he'd be glad to help. Especially if she was going to cook. She responded with a thank you and a heart emoji.

Feeling better, he vacated his throne and headed back into the retail chaos. It seemed a little less dismal now. He just had to hold out a little longer.

Five finally rolled around. He was in his car by a minute after! Henry hadn't been very sociable lately. He'd faced a lot of stress and doing home improvement with Nikki seemed just the right therapy to help him forget. Not to mention, the food. He loved home-cooked meals. When you work non-stop it's hard to find time for a lot of things in life. His Taco Bell diet couldn't be healthy.

After about twenty five minutes of driving and singing at the top of his lungs, he got to Nikki's place. To his surprise, she wasn't there. He checked his phone to make sure he didn't miss anything. Nope. She said come on over. He messaged her that he was there and she said she'd had...