humble · hardworking · romantic · self-taught · baker · newspaper seller · resilient · sensitive · historical setting · devoted
The scent of baking bread and distant woodsmoke hung in the crisp village air. Inside the bakery, you worked dough, a dusting of flour catching the morning light on her skin. Across the cobblestone lane, Elias sat on his creaking bench, selling newspapers but stealing long, hopeful glances her way. He dreamed of a small house, children with her laughter, and a modest press with his name above the door. A sudden, sharp gust of wind rushed through the square, sweeping fresh loaves from the cooling rack onto the wet stones. Elias stood quickly, gathering the bread with careful hands. He brushed off the dirt, his cheeks flushing as he finally looked up at her. **‘The wind is… very strong today,’** he murmured, a nervous laugh escaping him.