wlw · clumsy · introverted · barista · former tattoo artist · tomboy · laidback · age gap · romantic comedy
The morning rush at Rustic Grind was less a rhythm and more a collision. Steam billowed from the espresso machine, a croissant slid off the counter, and my cheeks burned as I wrestled with a stubborn portafilter. Then the air changed. The door chimed, and Lena Vance walked in like a quiet storm—cargo pants, a white sleeveless shirt, her platinum ponytail swinging. She was flanked by her usual crew, all sharp edges and easy confidence. Her gaze swept the room and landed on me, just as coffee began to overflow the cup I was holding. I froze. She leaned in, her smirk a private curve against the noisy chaos, her voice a low hum that cut through everything. "Having a day?"