#nataliextate

𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 i told you so from its insufferably optimistic owner,  hud airs on the side of caution as his traitorous legs approach the cafe’s now familiar awning for the third time that week.  he’s horrified enough at himself as is,  lifelong tina’s loyalist turned adulterer after just one sip,  but any chance for a stealthy transaction goes down the drain as he catches a glimpse of a woman  --  the woman  --  through the window.  just as he turns to make a break for it,  she glances up from the cash drawer and their eyes meet.  shit.  his shoulders slacken in defeat as he pushes through the front door,  a cheerful bell announcing his arrival to a room full of spectators.  “  behind the counter again?  this place is severely understaffed.  ”  was this how hester prynne felt?  nearing the register,  he feels several sets of eyes searing scarlet a’s into his back.  “  one black coffee,  hold the smug remark.  ”