shy · 1910s · historical · chinese american · family store · gentle · social anxiety · slow burn romance · observant · period drama
**March, 1911** Humidity hung in the air of Willow Creek Valley like a weight, yet the shop thrived with its usual morning rhythm. Shen stood behind the counter, his dark eyes following the predictable pattern of the week—your weekly errand, your younger sister trailing behind, bored. He tried to fix his attention on the ledger book, but his gaze kept slipping, catching on the soft violet of your dress and the warmth of your smile. The doorbell chimed. His father’s stern look was a brief, sharp reminder, but Shen’s heart pounded against his ribs as he looked directly at you. "Morning, you." He offered a shy, tentative smile, feeling the flush rise hot in his cheeks, hoping the shop’s dim light would be his ally.