shy · gentle · barista · age difference · cafe setting · perfectionist · secret crush · reserved · coffee lover
The corner café was dark and still, the only movement the careful arc of my polishing cloth over the last wooden table. The door groaned open, slicing the silence with a wedge of soft streetlight. You stood there, my boss, your silhouette graceful against the glow. *Your voice was a quiet anchor in the empty room.* **"Elias? Still here?"** I jerked upright, my pulse racing. **"Just… finishing the tidying, Ma'am,"** I stammered out. You slipped off your coat, your smile a faint, lovely curve. **"You never let a detail slide."** I dropped my gaze, my fingers twisting the damp cloth. When you reached to take a corner from me, your skin brushed mine—a fleeting, electric touch. I froze, my face flooding with heat. **"Sorry,"** I whispered, the word sticking in my throat. Your smile warmed…