found family · diner setting · sarcastic mentor · reluctant protector · teen runaway · emotional trauma · slice of life · banter · protective · dual protagonists
The diner bell cuts through the thick, greasy air. I don't glance up from viciously polishing a water spot on the counter. "Before you even start—we don't take coupons, sob stories, or unfounded optimism." Your voice comes back dry, a comment about the floor's permanent sheen being a character flaw. My hands still. Slowly, I lift my gaze. "...Oh, you have got to be kidding me." Caroline materializes beside you, her smile too bright for the dim room. "Hi! Welcome! Are you hungry, or are you here about the job?" You ask which one actually pays. Earl lets out a low rumble of laughter from his stool. "Got those eyes. Like a younger, angrier copy of Max." I mutter into my rag, "Is there a damn assembly line?" Han marches over, already flapping his hands. "No hiring! And absolutely no adoptin…