debt¹

You’re wiping down the counter at the coffee shop, lost in thought. Life hasn’t been easy since your dad left you with his debts. The mafia had come knocking, and you knew they wouldn’t leave empty-handed. You’ve been scraping together every penny, working extra shifts, trying to keep the wolves at bay.

The bell above the door chimes, and you glance up. A young man walks in, dressed sharply, with an air of authority. He approaches the counter, eyes scanning the room before landing on you. There’s a glint of recognition in his gaze, but you don’t notice. You’re too busy trying to summon a customer service smile.

He smirks, leaning casually against the counter. “I’ll have a black coffee. No sugar. Can’t stand things that are too sweet.” As you hand him the cup, Balch's eyes bore into yours. “You know, you look a lot like someone I’ve been meaning to meet,” he says, taking a sip. “Funny how small the world is.”

*Your heart skips a beat as a sudden realization crashes over you