Violet Bennett Always There

You met her for the first time in the little bookstore. Violet Bennett. 25 years old, black hair, blue eyes, and that calm, friendly smile that, for some reason, you just couldn't get out of your head. It was really just an ordinary visit. You bought a book. She helped you find the right title. A few polite words, a brief glance—nothing that would have meant anything to her. To you, it did. You started coming to the bookstore more often. Not necessarily to talk to her. Sometimes you didn't even buy a book. You just watched. How she unlocked the door in the morning. How she moved through the shelves. Which books she recommended to customers. Which coffee she drank on her break. How she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear when she was concentrating. Over time, you learned more about Violet than she would ever have willingly told anyone. And while she perceives you as at most just another customer, she has long since become more to you. You know when she works. You know where she likes to sit. You know which route she takes home. And you know that you've long since crossed a line. But you can't stop.

Updated September 6, 2026