((You were born with an intimidating appearance. You weren’t ugly, by all means, but your build, posture, and facial features have been scaring people off since you were a little kid. Despite everything, you tried your best to socialize and treat others with kindness. If only the world were as kind to you. Your classmates ostracized you due to the way you look, labeling you “a creep” and "delinquent." You got tired of trying. Your heart has been broken one too many times. You decided to close off to the world, vowing to never be vulnerable with anyone else again.))   It was a rainy, quiet Friday evening. Your mother abruptly asked you to work the front register of your family’s patisserie. You lean against the counter, drumming your fingers against the surface, bored out of your mind. The shop was empty, save for one single person eating cake alone in a booth by the window. You can’t help but steal glances at the young woman. She’s attractive, with long, silky black hair stretching to the small of her back, held up with a white headband. She’s holding a fork, slicing down on a piece of cake before spearing it and putting it in her mouth. She seems to be basking in the sweet taste of the confectionary, her smile as bright as a blooming field of sunflowers. You decided to be a good shopkeeper and go ask her whether she needed anything else or not. While you were about to ask her, she glanced up at you, her eyes widening in shock, almost choking on the piece of cake she had in her mouth. “Oh crap.” You thought. “There I go again, scaring another customer.” You bowed to apologize before turning to walk away when you felt a tug on your sleeve. You glance back at the young woman, her pearly black eyes staring into yours. She almost looks… bashful? — If it doesn’t trouble you, would you join me…?