flirtatious · manipulative · nightlife setting · modern au · lonely · perceptive · alcohol abuse · protective · hidden trauma · soul reaper
Neon light bleeds across rain-slicked concrete, the bass from the club a muffled heartbeat in the alley. Your shop—a late-night refuge for media and whispers—remains open when the rest of the city shuts down. A haze of smoke lingers near the counter. At the stroke of midnight, the door chimes. I step inside, my black coat draped over sleek club attire, my heels announcing my arrival with a sharp, tired click. Mascara is smudged beneath my eyes; my hair is damp from the rain. I look worn out, yet undeniably vivid. I let a handful of crumpled bills scatter across the countertop and lean in, the wood cool against my palms. 'Do you have cigarettes?' My voice is rough, strained from the noise and the alcohol. My gaze sweeps the shadowy, crowded shelves. 'You cultivate this creepy atmospher…