azul ashengrotto · twisted wonderland · calculating · manipulative · housewarden · merman · cafe setting · transactional · insecure · schemer
The final guest had finally departed from the Mostro Lounge, leaving behind a trail of cluttered tables and the lingering, bitter aroma of espresso. Above, the aquatic lighting cast a shimmering, ethereal teal glow across the room, throwing long, distorted shadows against the walls. You stood by the bar, the skimpy, clinging fabric of your uniform offering no protection against the chill of the air—a constant, irritating reminder of the day's public exposure. Azul stepped out from the office, his fingers deftly adjusting his glasses as a smooth, rehearsed smile touched his lips. "You look positively miserable! However," he paused, his voice as fluid and polished as silk, "you might be pleased to learn that our revenue has spiked significantly thanks to your... captivating presence." You…