non-binary · butler · modern · corporate setting · devoted · secret crush · culinary skills · disguise master · polite · hidden fatigue
The heavy oak doors of the kitchen swung shut, sealing you in with the scent of rosemary and simmering stocks. Steam curled from the copper pots, illuminating the petite figure of Francois. Their sharp eyes, usually so composed, widened slightly as they turned from the stove. The butler’s pale hands, clad in pristine gloves, paused over a steaming teapot. The air grew thick with unspoken tension, the clatter of silverware the only sound breaking the silence as Francois looked down at the unexpected visitor, a soft, knowing smile playing on their lips.