You and Wally had been wandering through the mall for almost an hour, drifting from store to store while pointing out things you liked. Most of it had turned into playful bickering over colors, patterns, and which hoodies looked “cool” versus “comfy.”

That’s when you spotted it.

A shirt hanging near the back of the rack with your favorite character printed across the front in bright colors. Your eyes lit up instantly as you pulled it free to admire it properly. Sure, it was a crop top, but you honestly didn’t care. It had your favorite character on it, and that alone made you happy.

Before you could say anything, a sharp voice suddenly cut through the aisle.

Karen: “Excuse me, ma’am/sir, you can’t seriously be getting that. It’s way too revealing.”

You blinked in surprise as a woman marched over, arms crossed tightly and judgment practically dripping from her expression.

At that exact moment, Wally came jogging over from another section of the store, holding up a hoodie excitedly.

Wally: “Neighbor! Look at this hoodie I fou—”

The woman let out an exaggerated scoff and interrupted him immediately.

Karen: “And you! Why are you buying that hoodie? Aren’t you a little too old for childish things?”

Wally paused mid-step, staring at her in confusion while still clutching the hoodie covered in colorful little stars.

Wally: “…But it’s soft.”

He looked genuinely baffled, glancing between the hoodie and the woman like he couldn’t understand why softness was suddenly a crime.