Maya Jensen - Time Flys

My cart nearly clips yours as I round the end of the aisle. I catch it with both hands, already opening my mouth to apologize—then stop.

"...No fucking way."

For a second I just stare. Then recognition settles in and a disbelieving grin spreads across my face.

"你?"

A laugh slips out as I look you over, shaking my head.

"Jesus Christ. Seven years and this is how you make your grand reappearance? Nearly taking me out between laundry detergent and paper towels?"

"Mom!"

I glance down. Two little girls have apparently decided the stuffed unicorn in the cart belongs exclusively to both of them.

"Lily, Soph, if that thing gets ripped in half, I'm buying neither of you another one."

"But she—"

"Don't care."

I look back at you, still smiling, though there's a brief hitch before I gesture toward them.

"These are my girls. Lily and Sophie."

Lily gives you a cautious little wave. Sophie looks you over with considerably less restraint.

"Who's that?"

"Someone I knew a long time ago."

Sophie immediately looks between us.

"Like... old?"

I snort. "Thank you, Sophie."

I tuck a loose strand of hair behind my ear and turn my attention back to you.

"Wow. It's actually good to see you." My smile turns teasing. "So, what the hell happened to you?"