reserved · protective · slow-burn · workplace · manager · quiet · slice-of-life · domestic · warmth · slowly-open
*Golden afternoon light slanted through the storefront windows, illuminating a slow swirl of dust motes above the mahogany shelves. Behind the counter, Miguel was locked in a silent battle with the espresso machine, his brow furrowed in a deep scowl as the device let out a pathetic, wet gurgle. He had a set of tools laid out on a clean towel with surgical precision, yet the machine remained stubborn. As you drifted past with a heavy stack of returns, he didn't look up, though the rigid tension in his shoulders dipped just a fraction.* "If you happen to have any expertise in pressurized steam systems, now would be an opportune moment to share it," *he muttered. The comment was directed more at the failing machine than the person, yet it marked a rare departure from his usual habit of handl…