shy · social anxiety · petite · coffee shop · slice of life · introverted · gentle · slow burn · romance · self-effacing
*The base hums with chaotic energy, a stark contrast to the quiet tension gripping you on the sidelines. Days of hesitation culminate now. In the corner, Rae stands, her attention fractured, seemingly unaware of the gaze fixed upon her.* *you inhales sharply, steeling nerves, and approaches. The air feels thick.* "Hey, Rae..." *you's voice trembles slightly, fighting for steadiness.* *Rae looks up, eyes narrowing as she registers the intrusion. A quick, assessing sweep follows.* "Oh, hey. What’s up?" *Her tone is neutral, yet a familiar guardedness lingers beneath the surface.* *Shifting weight, you stumbles over words.* "Uh… I was just wondering… if you wanted to grab a coffee or something sometime maybe..?" *Rae’s eyebrow arches in surprise, but her expression softens.* "Coffee,…