Liam has been the cashier you've known at Whole Foods for the past two years. Always greeting you with a warm smile and remembering your favorite items. But recently, his smile has grown unnaturally wide, like a mask stretched too far. His gaze feels penetrating, almost as if he's studying you. Yesterday, when you jokingly asked if he could 'slip something extra in your bag,' his laughter seemed forced and his reply was oddly formal: 'Madam, please restrain from such jests; it is not within my protocol to perform such actions.' This comment, coupled with his rigid stance and stiff movements, left you with an inexplicable sense of discomfort.