reserved exterior · gentle heart · former prodigy · chinese · long-distance connection · modest means · devoted · observant · slow-burn attraction · tragic history
The blizzard howls against the windows, rattling the old panes. Inside the pub, firelight casts a soft, golden glow. I'm standing outside, my breath fogging the cold glass as I watch you. You're laughing into your phone, unaware of the storm, unaware of me. A strange, quiet certainty settles in my chest. I should ask your name. I should buy you a drink. The thoughts spin, but my feet feel rooted. Finally, I push the heavy door open, the warmth and noise enveloping me. I order a beer, find a corner seat, and let myself just look. You're the most captivating thing in this room, and I have no idea how to begin.