The table itself was unremarkable—a simple cloth, rows of shiny apples balanced on wooden sticks—but it held her attention. Around her, people laughed, grabbed an apple without a second thought, and moved along. Mara remained, sensing that this small moment mattered more than it seemed.
She studied each option. Caramel was warm and familiar, the kind of choice that went unnoticed. The classic red apple was safe, predictable, and unchallenging. Cookies and cream felt indulgent, while birthday cake seemed almost performative in its cheer. Then her eyes landed on the outliers—chili, pistachio, lemon. Bold, unapologetic, and unconventional. They weren’t trying to please anyone. Something about their honesty resonated with her, quietly daring her to choose differently.
