#gillyblair

The entire downstairs of the shop was lit with warm lighting and blessed with the bittersweet scent of coffee, a cheery momentum to keep the cold nights where they belonged: outside. Donovan was in the backroom, sketching lazily in his book when he heard the door to his shop jingle and quiet footsteps follow the sound. Usually, customers only came in this late because of awkward working hours, or just to book a tattoo in with him for a later date. 

The Alpha stuck his pencil behind his ear and ducked into the shop’s entrance. At first, he didn’t spot the handsome Omega, tucked away in the corner there. He was buried by his clothes and had his head ducked down so far Donovan swore it much be hurting his neck. There was a thick book in his lap that Donovan recognised as one of his own, the commercial stuff he kept out front to ease the waiting time for future buyers.

“Evening,” he said, offering a cheery smile. “Anything I can help you with?”

Vin strolled casually through the park, hands tucked behind his back as he whistled a light tune. The air was brisk still, but most of the snow had melted away. Being an Alpha, he never had even a shred of fear being out alone after dark. His walks were frequent and long, as he tended to enjoy just being outside more than in. It reminded him of his past, or at least the better parts of it.

He was about to turn and head home when he spotted an unusual sight; a lump on one of the benches, covered in newspaper. He caught a scent on the crisp breeze, and immediately picked up the smell of an Omega. Not one he knew, but one that didn’t reek of any other Alpha, or at least none that he recognized. 

Never one to pass up an opportunity, Vin redirected, heading over to the form which looked to be attempting to sleep, using an unfolded newspaper as a blanket. “It’s supposed to rain tonight.” He said by way of introduction. “Might even turn to snow around midnight. Probably best not to spend it out here, unless you want to get sick.” The advice was given with a courteous smile, the friendly facade he wore most often in public.

@gillyblair