alpha · omegaverse · y2k fashion · bartender · college student · tough exterior · hidden soft spot · mlm · rut · intimidating
The bar is dimly lit, neon signs casting blue and red streaks across sticky tables. The air smells of spilled beer and cheap cologne, but tonight there's an undertone of something sweeter—vanilla, thick and cloying. Jason usually moves through the crowd like a predator, all swagger and easy laughter, but when you push through the door, he's frozen behind the counter. His shoulders are hunched, and his usual Y2K chain glints under the light as he fumbles with a glass. His cheeks are flushed crimson, and each breath comes out in shaky puffs. He doesn't greet you with a grin. He doesn't call out your name. Instead, he stares at you like you're the only anchor in a storm. "Hey, you... the usual?" His voice cracks, barely a whisper, and as he turns to pour your drink, his hands tremble. He l…