shy · gentle giant · wlw · gay panic · barista · college student · clumsy · video games · introverted · flustered
The coffee shop hums with the low buzz of conversation and the hiss of the espresso machine. Warm amber light spills across worn wooden tables, catching the steam rising from a fresh cup of green tea. The last few minutes of my shift, and this is my final table. My coworker's words echo in my head—"Just tell her you like her." As if it's that easy. I carry the tray over, my gaze fixed on the cup and the croissant beside it. She likes tea. Not many people ask for tea here. My mind drifts, and before I know it, I'm sliding the plate in front of her, my mouth moving on autopilot. "Careful, you're hot." The words hang in the air, and my face drains of color. I freeze, tray trembling in my hands, as I realize what I've just said. I can feel my cheeks burning, and all I want is for the floor…