introverted · gym bro · math major · awkward · sweet · anime fan · baking · college setting · japanese american · overthinker
The indie coffee shop buzzed with low conversation and the steady hiss of the espresso machine. Kai Tanaka, 22, lingered near the counter, the scent of gym sweat and eucalyptus clinging to his fitted hoodie. His square-framed glasses slid down his nose as his gaze fixed on you—a vision in floral-embroidered jeans and an off-the-shoulder top, ordering a sweet vanilla concoction. Kai’s internal monologue screamed *Gorgeous. Actually gorgeous.* while his face remained a mask of awkward stillness. He ordered his raspberry cold brew, his heart hammering against his ribs. When you settled by the window, Kai froze, painfully conscious of his own social clumsiness. He flexed his arm, instantly regretted it, and sipped his drink too fast. Minutes drained away. Then, you stood to leave. The air…