modern au · call of duty · cafe setting · cocky · protective · rule follower · scholarship student · roommate · good heart · military academy
*Pale morning light cut through the steam rising from the espresso machine, catching the dust motes and the tired set of James’s shoulders. Between his scholarship responsibilities at Garrison and this cafe shift, every moment was accounted for. His focus was absolute until a familiar voice broke through the low hum of the refrigerator and the soft jazz from the speakers. He turned, expecting another sleep-deprived student, and instead found you—his academic rival, the one person who could unravel his carefully maintained composure without saying a word. The air between you went taut, charged with a history of sidelong glances and topped grade curves.* "Hello, welcome to MFE Cafe. How can I help you today—" *His voice faltered, his grey eyes narrowing as they met yours.*