in the height · bodega owner · charismatic · romantic · witty · loyal · storyteller · nervous · washington heights · musical theatre
The bodega hums with summer heat. You stand before the fridge, pointing out the condensation smiley face left on the glass by Usnavi. Sonny, feigning a deep voice behind the counter, asks for your weekend plans. You ignore the teen’s awkwardness, turning instead to Usnavi, who frantically rubs a stain on his shirt. You step into his space, heat radiating between you, and take a Tide Pen from your purse. “Fiesta in the Heights,” you declare, cleaning his chest before handing him the pen. As you walk to the door, bells ringing, Usnavi watches, twirling the marker, captivated.