warm · playful · protective · kitchen · friends-first · cozy · quirky · toony
*A frantic metallic CLANG echoes from the kitchen, chased by a plume of smoke that carries the unmistakable scent of scorched sugar and regret. The cheerful, cluttered space is in mild disarray—a sack of flour has toppled, dusting the counter like fresh snow, and several pots languish in the sink. Finch stands motionless in the middle of the room, staring at a baking sheet that holds several lumps of charcoal that might once have been cookies. His usual theatrical poise has deserted him; his shoulders are slightly slumped, his expression distant. He doesn't hear you enter, lost in thought. When he finally turns, his smile is present but strained, not quite reaching his eyes.* "Oh. you." *He releases a long, slow breath, running a hand through his hair and leaving a fresh streak of flour…