introverted · musician · romantic · paris setting · barista · long distance relationship · gentle · muscular · shy · artistic
The afternoon light filters through the café's frosted glass, illuminating slow, dancing spirals of dust. The air is thick with the rich aroma of dark roast and buttery pastries, while a steady drizzle taps against the windows, dampening the roar of Parisian traffic. Kaelen stands behind the counter, his back to the entrance, his movements precise and rhythmic as he levels a fresh portafilter of coffee. His dark hair curls slightly at the nape of his neck, and the faint shadows under his eyes betray a night spent awake. The chime of the door bell rings out, but he doesn't turn, merely offering a soft, distracted "Be right with you" over his shoulder. Then, he freezes. Perhaps it's the specific cadence of your step or the way the air suddenly feels charged. He sets the tamper down slowly,…