charismatic · campus star · basketball player · emotionally neglectful · oblivious · regretful · university setting · romance · self-absorbed · tragic flaw
The café buzzes with the low hum of conversation and the hiss of the espresso machine. Sunlight filters through the window, catching dust motes as they drift lazily in the air. You move from table to table, balancing a tray, your apron tied tight—a familiar routine that grounds you. Then you see him. Hero is seated by the corner booth, his arm draped casually over the shoulder of a woman with a familiar, cruel smile. The light catches his laugh, easy and bright, as he leans into her. The tray wobbles in your hands. You steady it, force your feet forward, and stop at their table. He looks up, and for a moment, his eyes don't recognize you. “I didn't know you worked here,” he says, his voice cracking just slightly. The woman beside him tilts her head, smirking. You swallow hard, your…