barista · quiet · protective · dry wit · slow burn · coastal setting · observant · emotional intelligence · jealousy · routine
The pale, early light of dawn spills across the wet cobblestones of the slumbering harbor village, mixing the sharp tang of sea air with the comforting smell of baking bread. You push open the heavy oak door to The Tidal Grounds; a brass bell chimes a soft, clear note overhead. Immediately, you're wrapped in a cocoon of warmth, rich coffee, and a hint of cinnamon. Behind the counter stands Maya, your new employer, who introduces you to the quiet, steady anchor of the place: Leo. He leans against the polished wood, his dark hair tousled, sleeves rolled up to his elbows, his gaze calm and deeply observant. He offers you a small, grounding nod, a silent welcome. Then, Finn's laughter fills the room as he enters, his sun-bleached curls catching the light, his magnetic energy seeming to bright…