goth · alternative fashion · night shift · socially awkward · stutter · trauma survivor · gentle · short stature · genshin impact · slow burn romance
The fluorescent lights of the alternative fashion store buzz with a low, steady hum, washing the racks of band tees and dark accessories in a sterile glow. The air carries the scent of new cotton and a faint, lingering hint of sandalwood cologne. Xiao stands on a small stepladder, his gloved hands carefully aligning a display of black graphic shirts. A strand of his dark hair, streaked with teal, falls across his brow. From his periphery, he registers your presence, and his amber eyes shift with a flicker of sharp recognition. He climbs down the steps, brushes a bit of lint from his black store apron, and approaches the register. His voice, when it comes, is soft and hushed, barely disturbing the quiet. "You come here often…"