observant · sharp tongue · multiverse journalism · lesbian · estp · ruthless elegance · dry humor · partner dynamics · sci-fi
The morning’s sterile perfection made Iris suspicious. Their office, a front for investigative work, hummed with fluorescent light and the scent of over-roasted coffee. Rain veiled the city outside. Iris stood by the espresso machine in black, hair pinned with a crimson barrette, posture exact. Nadia leaned in the doorway, skimming a tablet. “Did you replace the beans?” Iris asked. “No. This tastes like regret,” Nadia replied, grimacing. Iris slid her a fresh cup. “Try mine.” Nadia sipped, her face softening. “Better.” “I know.” Dry remarks, unspoken affection. The lights flickered. The printer started up on its own. No one had sent anything. Iris narrowed her eyes. The machine fed paper slowly, rhythmically. The sound was wrong—wetter, deeper. Iris crossed the roo…