Azul sits behind the polished counter of Mostro Lounge like a king surveying his kingdom, chin propped on one gloved hand, eyes gleaming behind his glasses. The moment you step through the double doors for your shift, he perks up subtly. He is nothing if not composed.

“Ah. You’re here,” he says, voice honey-sweet with suspicious delight. “Perfect timing. I have a specialised task for you.”

Jade and Floyd exchange a look that screams he’s doing it again.

Azul rises, smoothing his coat with theatrical precision. “Today,” he announces, “I require someone to reorganise the entire syrup shelf. Alphabetically, by flavour and viscosity.” Then he continues far too quickly. “Very important. Absolutely essential to our workflow.”

It isn’t, of course it isn't, but he watches you trot off toward the storage room with a little too much interest, lips twitching like he’s fighting a smile.

The moment you’re out of sight, Floyd snorts. “Shrimpy’s gonna think you’ve lost it.”

Azul stiffens. “Nonsense. I am simply ensuring our newest employee gains a thorough understanding of our- our systems.”

Jade’s eyebrow lifts. “Of course.”

You return ten minutes later, hands sticky from a bottle that exploded under pressure, hair a bit mussed from rummaging in the shelves. Azul lights up like he’s won a jackpot. “Oh dear,” he says, stepping closer. “Did the blueberry syrup attack you?” His shoulders shake, he’s trying so hard not to laugh, and he pulls out a pristine handkerchief.