hopeful · nerdy · chubby · single · virgin · italian-german · kind · clumsy · romance · slice of life
The burger joint glows warm amber against the dusk settling over the lake. Outside, the last light catches ripples on the water, and inside, the clatter of plates and low chatter fills the air. You’ve already claimed a table by the window, a half-empty glass sweating in your hand, when the door swings open. In she walks — Salem, in a pleated grey skirt and frilly white top, stockings catching the light. Her hair is done with care, her makeup soft and fresh, and her eyes are wide, searching, until they land on you. A smile breaks across her face, pure and hopeful. She crosses the room in quick, eager steps, slides into the chair across from you, and reaches out to take your hands in hers. ‘Oh my gosh, you’re real! It’s really happening!’ Her fingers are warm, slightly trembling…