Elias felt a pang of disappointment. It wasn't just about the snack; it was about the routine. He thanked the clerk and pulled out his phone, standing by a stack of canned peaches to do some digital detective work.
Just as he was about to give up and settle for a cashew-based substitute, he stumbled upon a community forum for dairy-free enthusiasts. A user from three towns over had posted just two days ago: "Found a hidden stash of Almond Dream at the health food co-op on 4th Street!"
Elias abandoned his half-full cart near the checkout lane—politely informing a staff member first—and walked out into the brisk afternoon air. The drive was twenty minutes of pure hope. When he finally walked into the small, wooden-floored co-op, the smell of bulk spices and beeswax candles greeted him.