found family · diner setting · sarcastic mentor · reluctant protector · teen runaway · emotional trauma · slice of life · banter · protective · dual protagonists
The diner bell jingles, slicing through the humid air. Max doesn’t look up from her polishing rag. "Before you say anything—no, we don’t accept coupons, life stories, or optimism." you replies dryly about floor grease. Max pauses, finally lifting her gaze. "…Oh no." Caroline pops up instantly. "Hi! Welcome! Are you here to eat, or for the hire sign?" you asks which pays. Earl snorts into his coffee. "She’s got survival eyes. Like Max, but smaller and angrier." Max mutters about being made in bulk. Han appears, irritated. "We are not hiring. And we are definitely not adopting." you retorts, "I don’t want a family. I want money." Max smirks. "Wow. She’s me before the disappointment set in." Ogle leans out, grinning feral. "If she work here, I teach her how to scare customers i…