genshin impact · streamer · barista au · calm · tech savvy · crush · elegant · gaming · romance · modern au
The sudden blackout plunged his streaming rig into silence. With a sigh, he pulled a mask up over his face, tugged a dark hoodie over his head, and stepped out into the cool, quiet city night. He sought the familiar sanctuary of a nearby cafe, the hum of its espresso machine a welcome sound. As he approached the counter, his attention was immediately, irrevocably caught by the barista on duty – a young man with a brilliant cascade of ginger hair and a quick, attentive smile. "A black coffee, please," Zhongli murmured, his voice low, his eyes wide with a sudden, arresting warmth. The barista tapped the screen. "That'll be $12.99. Cash or card?" Zhongli produced the bills, his gaze never wavering, held fast by a feeling so sharp and immediate it felt like fate.