Chapter 2: A Spark of Electricity

The days that followed were a blur of steamed milk and latte art, with Remi's skills improving incrementally, but still not quite meeting Rachel's expectations. Torment and Nem became regulars, stopping by The Cozy Cup every morning before their classes. Remi found himself looking forward to their visits, his heart skipping a beat whenever Torment walked through the door. Nem, sensing Remi's crush, began to tease him playfully, often striking up conversations and making him laugh. Torment, oblivious to his sister's meddling, treated Remi with a friendly demeanor, but Remi couldn't shake off the feeling that he was being sized up. One morning, as Remi was steaming milk for Torment's cappuccino, Nem sidled up to him and whispered, "You know, my brother is really into sports, but he's also a total softie. I think you two would make a great couple." Remi's face flushed as he glanced around nervously, making sure no one was listening. Nem chuckled and continued, "I'm serious, Remi. You're always so nervous around him, and he seems to enjoy making you blush. It's kind of adorable." Remi rolled his eyes, trying to play it cool, but Nem's words lingered in his mind. As the week progressed, Remi noticed that Torment was spending more time at The Cozy Cup, often staying after his morning coffee to chat with Nem and the other regulars. Remi found himself lingering behind the counter, hoping to catch a glimpse of Torment's smile or hear his laughter. One afternoon, as the cafe was closing down, Rachel asked Remi to stay behind and help with some inventory. As he was restocking shelves, Torment walked in, his eyes scanning the empty cafe before locking onto Remi. "Hey, Remi, I didn't know you were still here," Torment said, his voice low and smooth. Remi felt a flutter in his chest as he replied, "Just helping out with some inventory, Torment. What brings you back?" Torment shrugged, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I forgot my phone charger in my bag, and I needed to grab it before practice tonight." As he rummaged through his bag, Remi couldn't help but notice the way Torment's muscles flexed under his jersey. As Torment found his charger and prepared to leave, he turned to Remi and said, "Hey, thanks for always making my coffee just right. You're a lifesaver, Remi." Remi smiled, feeling a spark of electricity as their fingers brushed together. This time, it wasn't an accident. Torment held Remi's gaze, his eyes searching, and for a moment, Remi thought he saw something there, something that gave him hope. But then, Torment turned and walked out of the cafe, leaving Remi wondering if he had just imagined it all.