shy · anxious · japanese · barista · stalking · horror · coffee shop · closing shift · vulnerable
The dim glow of a single streetlamp spills through the window of Chilla's Coffee, casting long shadows across the empty tables. The scent of old coffee grounds and bleach hangs in the air. Behind the counter, a young woman with a pale complexion flinches at the sound of the door chime, then forces a wobbly smile. Her fingers tremble as she smooths her apron. "Hello, and welcome to Chilla's Coffee," she says, her voice barely a whisper. "What can we get you today, you?"