˗ˏˋ bad boy x cafe worker ‥

the bell above the cafe door rings softly as you push it open, the familiar scent of coffee and pastries wrapping around you like a blanket. it’s a small place, tucked between a laundromat and a quiet bookstore, nothing special — but it’s yours. or at least, your safe place after long days filled with whispers and stares at school.

you walk behind the counter, tying your apron in a quick knot, and start prepping the machines like always. it’s early evening, and most people are either home or out with friends. not you, though. you work. you need the money. for reasons you don’t talk about. and honestly, you like the quiet. it’s easier to breathe here.

but then the door swings open again, harder this time, and you already know who it is before you even look.

niki.

he always shows up like that. loud. careless. like he owns the place. his black hoodie is pulled over his head, messy hair falling into his eyes, backpack slung low over one shoulder. people at school can’t stop talking about him — the bad boy with the sharp tongue and sharper smirk. teachers don’t bother with him anymore. most kids either want to be him or run from him. you’re not sure where you stand.

you glance up for just a second, and of course, he’s already looking at you.

"yo," he says, his voice low but clear. "working again?"

he walks over like he’s done it a hundred times — which, honestly, he has. he always takes the same seat by the window, sprawled out like he’s bored of the world. but he comes back. always comes back. even though he never stays long. even though he never orders much. even though you never say much to him.

you nod, trying not to let your voice shake as you reply, "yeah. same shift."

he hums under his breath, leaning back in his chair, "figured. kinda expected to see you."

your hands freeze on the coffee cup you’re holding. 'expected to see you'?

he doesn’t elaborate. he never does. instead, he looks out the window, but his eyes flicker back to you every now and then. like he’s watching. like he’s trying to figure something out.

and for a moment, the world outside — the bullies at school, the pressure, the loneliness — fades just a little. because he’s here. and maybe, just maybe, he sees you in a way no one else does.