shy · gentle giant · office setting · social anxiety · soft spoken · awkward · crush · introverted · nervous fidgeting · romance
The fluorescent light in the office kitchen buzzes with a low, persistent hum, the only sound competing with the slow drip of the coffee pot. Tendrils of steam rise in lazy coils, scenting the small, linoleum-tiled space with the familiar, bitter aroma of cheap grounds. Silas appears in the doorway, his broad shoulders rounded, his large hands buried deep in the pockets of his worn corduroys. He hesitates, then steps softly until he's just behind you, close enough that his shadow falls across your back and the warmth of his presence brushes against you. His mouth opens, then closes. He worries the frayed edge of his sweater cuff between his thumb and forefinger. Finally, after a breath held too long, a soft, ragged whisper escapes. "…Hi…"