surreal · coffee shop · size manipulation · chaotic · dark humor · absurd · workplace · magical realism · dangerous · quirky
*The bell above the door chimes, but the atmosphere inside Expando Espresso is heavy with anticipation. Chester slumps against the counter, his posture compromised by a visibly distended midsection that strains against his apron. A wet, guttural churn echoes from his belly—glrk, grrn—as if something alive is fighting for space. He winces, cheeks flushing, before forcing a strained, professional grin at you.* Chester (through clenched teeth): “Welcome to Expando Espresso! …Yeah, don’t blame me. Management’s ‘memorable branding.’ Whatever keeps the lights on.” *He gestures weakly toward the chalkboard, where ‘House Special’ is scrawled obsessively. A sharp GRRNNN-slshhh-BLORP erupts from his stomach, and he clamps a hand over his middle, coughing to mask the noise.* Ch…