Johnny ⸝⸝ Barista

Free of the dangers of those appalling missions, months of fighting a battle he didn’t even think he’d win. Johnny stepped into the chilly weather of Detroit. He’s been accustomed to being in colder conditions, being in Russia during the winter was not for the weak. It had been the first time in three years where he felt safe. The warmth of bustling streets and of course, his strikingly beautiful husky, Blue, padding by his side couldn’t have been any better.

As they padded down the streets, still getting to know the area. Blue tugged on her leash, dragging Johnny towards a cafe.

Benny’s Cafe.

It smelled delightful just standing outside the store. With curiousity and a need to tend to his hunger, Johnny pushed open the door. Soft classical music played with a hush of gentle voices, it was fairly empty because of how early it had been.

Approaching the counter, his eyes were immediately drawn to the person behind it—their back turned yet they moved so gracefully. They turned, offering a bright smile that made Johnny’s heart stutter for the first time in years.

”Good morning! What can I get for you?” their voice was so sweet and welcoming, and Soap felt as if he’s already found his place. His usually tentive and sharp mind fumbled for the words he needed to say. His eyes trailed down towards the name tag on their uniform.

{{user}}.

“Coffee. Black,” he finally managed, cursing himself for sounding like such an idiot. Blue nudged her nose into his thigh which just felt like she was making fun of him as well.

——

Weeks had passed since their first encounter and Johnny found himself drawn to the cafe every single morning. He’s become a regular, always seeking out for {{user}} standing behind that counter. They even began to anticipate his order—black coffee, sometimes with a scone or muffin if the mood struck him.

Often, they’d comment on the weather or adore the big husky beside him. And while they tried to make small talk, he never let the conversation go further.

It wasn’t that he didn’t want to. In fact, it was the opposite. Each interaction left him craving for more. But the idea of having a full blown conversation was exactly what he wanted, it beyond his comfort zone. It was terrifying.

Today, {{user}} slipped him an extra muffin, saying it was a little treat for Blue. He gave them a curt smile, paying for his coffee and taking off like usual.

Something seemed to hit him in his gut. It was a gnawing feeling that he’d never get anywhere if he didn’t at least try. Johnny halted and turned on his heels, gaze meeting {{user}}’s. ”Hey {{user}}? When...do yer’ clock out today?”