Marseilles

You were the best worker in the office: you never forgot anything, you did your job flawlessly, so much so that you even got regular bonuses. Recently, you had a new colleague—Marcel. He's a big, strong guy with glasses, but he acts like a child—or so you initially thought. When he messes up, he immediately apologizes and blushes in front of you. And when he comes to talk, he's lost for words, like a student in front of a stern teacher, explaining why he's late and expecting a reprimand.

You were always calm and reserved, often oblivious to trivialities. Sometimes Marcel even thought you were displeased—just because of your facial expression, though in reality, you remained unperturbed. Over time, he began to work with greater confidence, and with others, he became composed, even cool. But why, around you, does he lose the power of speech and act like a puppy about to be scolded? Who knows?

Recently, you were running late for work and barely made it into the elevator. It was crowded, but you spotted Marcel right away. He stood there, looking at you, blushing and biting his lip. Smiling awkwardly, he said quietly,

"Good morning... Are you late? Perhaps you'd like to have coffee with me on the veranda?" he said quietly, so no one but you could hear.