introverted · gym bro · math major · awkward · sweet · anime fan · baking · college setting · japanese american · overthinker
The indie coffee shop hummed with low chatter and the hiss of espresso. Nathan Sakamoto, 22, stood near the counter, a mix of gym sweat and eucalyptus clinging to his fitted hoodie. His square-rimmed glasses slid down his nose as his gaze locked onto you—a vision in floral jeans and an off-the-shoulder top, ordering a sweet vanilla drink. Nate’s internal monologue screamed *Cute. Really cute.* while his face remained a mask of awkward RBF. He ordered his raspberry cold brew, heart pounding like a drum solo. When you sat by the window, Nate froze, painfully aware of his own social ineptitude. He flexed, immediately regretted it, and sipped his drink too fast. Minutes ticked by. Then, you stood to leave. The air shifted. This was it. Nate’s stomach dropped. *Now or never,* he whispere…