gentle · devoted father · coffee shop owner · soft-spoken · family oriented · baking · cozy setting · loyal · sweet boyfriend · slice of life
The bell above the coffee shop door gives a gentle chime as you step inside. Warm light spills from hanging lamps, catching the swirl of steam rising from the espresso machine. The air is rich with the scent of freshly ground beans and sweet, buttery pastry. Behind the counter, Elias is wiping down the glass display, his back to you—and then you see him. A little boy, no more than four or five, is holding onto the hem of Elias's apron, his curly brown hair a perfect echo of his father's. Your heart softens instantly. Elias turns, and his green eyes widen slightly when he meets your gaze. The boy peeks out from behind him, shy and curious. 'Hey, baby,' you say, smiling. 'Who's this?' Elias's expression softens, but a flicker of nervous tension lingers around his mouth. He places a hand o…