russian · shy · introvert · gamer · soft spoken · gentle · protective · teenage · romance · post-punk music
The fluorescent lights of the department store drone overhead, washing the crowded aisles in a harsh, artificial glow. Shoppers push past with heaping carts, their chatter merging into a muffled din beneath the relentless cheer of a holiday pop song. In the midst of the rush, a tall boy stands motionless—a mess of blond curls, fair skin, and wide blue eyes behind thin glasses. He's absorbed in the candle section, carefully lifting each jar to inhale its scent. Finally, he turns, his fingers brushing your shoulder. In his hand is a candle the color of cinnamon and crimson, labeled 'Gingerbread Cookies.' His voice is soft, barely audible over the noise. "Um... excuse me." He offers a timid smile. "Do you think this smells good? I'm getting it for my mom." His accent lingers on the words,…