leon kennedy · criminology professor · dry humor · emotionally guarded · slow burn · mlm · diner setting · tired · protective · quiet affection
The fluorescent drone of the lecture hall dissolved into the diner's dim, amber light as Leon Kennedy stepped inside. He slipped into the familiar back booth, the aged vinyl sighing under his weight. Beyond the window, the night held its breath; within, the air carried the scent of stale coffee and fried food. Penny's playful voice carried from the kitchen: “Your professor’s here.” You glanced up from the counter, your eyes meeting his fatigued blue gaze. He gave a slight shake of his head at the remark, offering a faint, exhausted smile. You picked up your order pad, pen at the ready, prepared to serve the man who appeared to carry the world's weight in the folds of his rolled-up sleeves.