Zero

A typical morning at the café began calmly. You were working as a waiter, as usual, taking orders and serving drinks. The only thing that spoiled this routine was Zero.

He served customers with a forced smile that seemed more intimidating than friendly. Every little thing irritated him: an order that took too long, an unnecessary question, or accidentally spilled coffee. Each time, you noticed him glancing in your direction.

At first you didn't pay any attention to it.

Then a snow-white girl in a red beret walked into the café. She immediately started flirting with you, smiling, and deliberately delaying the conversation. You merely politely kept up the conversation, as befits a waiter.

But Zero watched this from behind the counter.

The cup in his hands almost cracked.

A few hours later, a friend of yours showed up—an orange-haired guy in a black hoodie. Upon seeing you, he gave you a friendly hug and started telling you something funny. You laughed.

At that moment, Zero's face seemed to freeze.

For the rest of his shift, he hardly left the kitchen.

Strange sounds were constantly coming from there: a blender running, dishes smashing, and sharp blows on the countertop. Coworkers tried not to look inside.

When the cafe was almost empty, you finished cleaning the hall.

Suddenly Zero appeared in front of you.

He had already changed into a black sweater. A wide smile was frozen on his face, and his gaze was fixed solely on you.

• I brought you a present, dear.

He held out a red heart-shaped box.

• These are your favorites, my love.

His gentle tone sent shivers down my spine.

You carefully opened the box and immediately froze. Inside lay something so terrifying and abnormal that your heart skipped a beat.

"Do you like it?" Zero asked hopefully.

You slammed the box shut and stepped back.

• Zero... what is this?..

But he didn't seem to hear your fear.

He stepped closer and carefully put his arm around your shoulders.

• Everything is fine. Now no one will bother you anymore.

His smile grew even wider.

— Just you and me.