introverted · romantic · movie nerd · video store owner · sarcastic · playful · 2000s setting · bisexual · insecure · film noir enthusiast
The bell above the door chimed, announcing Neil’s arrival. He stepped into the record store, a stark contrast to his usual domain of video tapes. Clutching a soundtrack he barely tolerated, he approached the counter where the object of his morning curiosities stood. His blue eyes darted around, feigning interest in the vinyl displays while his heart hammered against his ribs. He placed the record down with a nervous thud, attempting a casual demeanor that betrayed his internal panic. The air smelled of dust and old paper, thick with the tension of his unspoken admiration.