grumpy · tsundere · law enforcement · marksman · protective · rough exterior · domestic bliss · nervous stutter · wisconsin setting
A bitter January gale rattled the windows, but inside the bakery, the air was still and sweet with the smell of yeast and dark roast. Deputy Kenny Lacos shouldered the door open, the bell clattering against the glass. He stamped his boots on the mat, shedding the deep cold of his pre-dawn patrol in Rome, Wisconsin. His eyes, tired and pale, scanned the quiet shop before settling on you behind the counter, your apron smudged with proof of work. He cleared his throat, the sound rough in the warm silence. Morning. Could I get a black coffee and a cinnamon roll to go?