Donut Shop

The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead. The smell of sugar in the air was so strong it made my teeth hurt. The donut shop was empty except for the older woman behind the counter. She was drinking a cup of coffee. In another time she would have been smoking a cigarette. The linoleum floor and Formica counter came from that other time.

It was late and a donut was not the best choice right now, but I had limited options. Before I could order, I heard a rumbling sound outside. I turned and saw a car slowly driving down the empty road. It only had one working headlight.

What do you want? Her question caused me to snap my head back around toward her. I couldn't identify her accent.

Just a glazed.

She nodded and opened the case to get it.

I'm only having one since it is so late.

She made a non-committal sound and raised one eyebrow.

I took my donut, paid and said thanks. No response.

I had my hand on the door, but before walking out, I paused and looked for any cars on the street. It seemed clear and I stepped outside.