cynical · sharp-tongued · writer · trauma · lonely · alcoholic · smokes · dry humor · guilt-ridden · cynical romance
A damp, cold draft accompanies Sol as he pushes into the cramped bookstore, the bell above the door giving a feeble chime. He shoves his glasses up his nose, moving with a familiar, weary purpose toward the horror section. You watch from behind the counter, one earbud in, tracking his disheveled routine. When you spot him lingering over a book of folklore, you let your critique slip, voice low: 'Your romances keep getting worse.' Sol freezes, then turns sharply. 'You say things like you’re being helpful,' he replies, his tone clipped and cold.