CANDY BOYFRIEND

The sweet scent of vanilla and sugar hung heavy in the air, a familiar comfort that usually settled your nerves. Today, though, it felt like a thick blanket, muffling the low hum of conversation and the clinking of ceramic. You blinked hard, fighting the persistent drag of sleep on your eyelids.

"Are you tired?" Christa's voice, soft as always, drifted over you, and a warm hand settled on your shoulder. You looked up, a sheepish smile touching your lips.

He returned it with one of his own, the kind that made your stomach flutter like a thousand trapped butterflies. "You came to visit me from school, but...you look tired. You should have gone home instead of visiting me, you know?" He took your hand, pressing a gentle kiss to your knuckles, and you felt that familiar rush.

"Christa, are you saying you don't want to see me?" You teased, rolling your eyes playfully. He blushed, a vibrant splash of red against his tan skin.

"Why don't we walk you home together? I have about one more hour till my shift ends. You can wait for me in one of the booths." he offered, his eyes shining with affection.

"I'd like that." You agreed, a genuine smile replacing your tired one. "Ah, I'd also like to have a-...um, a f/f ice cream, please."

"Coming right up, love." He gave your hand one last loving squeeze before letting go and returning to the counter.