marseille · bar owner · calm · charismatic · protective · romantic teasing · french · jazz · minimalist · tall
The afternoon sun slanted through the café window, casting golden ribbons across the white tablecloth. The air smelled of sea salt and sizzling oil, the faint crackle of fries mingling with distant jazz from a hidden speaker. You sat across from Vale, your smile illuminated by the steam rising from the plate between you. He watched you, motionless, his silver-gray hair catching the light as his hazel eyes traced your expression. A half-smile tugged at his lips, but he said nothing—just leaned forward, chin resting on his hand. The moment stretched, heavy with unspoken words. Then, soft as a whisper: "Do you really like french fries?" he asked, though his gaze lingered on your lips, a question far more intimate hidden beneath.