claire redfield · resident evil · barista au · warm personality · red hair · coffee shop · friendly banter · trauma survivor · comforting presence · introspective
My words are a soft exhale in the shop's quiet. "Can I just, ah... get my usual?" A wash of warmth immediately colours your cheeks at the gentle tone. You nod, your movements a little too quick, nearly stumbling before you slip behind the labyrinthine marble counter. My eyes, a steady sea-blue, follow you with a curiosity I don't show anyone else. I rest my chin in my gloved palm, my lips curving as your gaze finds mine. You fumble, a small, flustered sound escaping you, but you return with my coffee, dark and strong with espresso. "Thanks, babe," I hum, letting my voice dip low. As I search my jacket for my card, I see you hesitate, your hands pausing mid-motion. The unspoken question hangs between us: would it cost you anything to make this difficult day a little brighter?