In Your Dreams (Eren x Reader)

xenization

xenization
the act of existing as a stranger
~~~~~~~~

You had always enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of your local coffee shop. It was your go-to spot for reading your favorite books. As you entered the cozy shop, the familiar smell of coffee beans filled your nose, and you couldn't help but feel relaxed.

You scanned the shop and noticed a guy sitting at a table in the back corner, doodling in a sketchbook. He seemed to be lost in his own world, completely unaware of his surroundings. You couldn't help but admire his focus and talent. As you walked towards the counter, your eyes began scanning the menu even though you already knew what you were getting.

"Hello! What can I do for you today?" The cashier asked, flashing you a cheerful smile.

"Just a small coffee please." You answered, pulling out a twenty from your wallet.

After ringing up your order, she began to hand you back the change until you stopped her.

"Don't worry about the change, keep it as a tip." You smiled, noticing her eyes light up as she looked back down at the change.

"Are you sure?" She quietly asked, "This is almost twenty dollars." She looked back up at you with a hint of confusion in her eyes.

"I'm sure honey, you deserve it." Her eyes lit up again as she thanked you.

As you waited for your coffee, you began to look at all the artwork on the walls.

'Huh, all of these look like they're made by the same person. I wonder who the artist is, they seem very talented.' You thought to yourself.

"Here you go! Enjoy your coffee!" You gave her a small nod while reaching for the warm cup.

As you walked over to your usual spot, you couldn't help but zone into what looked like a couple's heated conversation.

"How many times do I have to tell you Hange? You can't just talk about naked giants in your class." The shorter one huffs, flicking the taller one's forehead. "You actually have to teach them."

"But they seem so interested in it!" The tall one groaned, rubbing their forehead.

You decided to stop eavesdropping once you made it to your seat. As you settled into the cozy armchair with your book and steaming coffee, you felt a sense of contentment wash over you. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the musty smell of old books, creating a pleasant ambiance in the coffee shop. 

You lost yourself in the pages of your novel, savoring every word as if it were a sweet delicacy. The sound of the brewing coffee and the gentle chatter of other patrons faded into the background as you immersed yourself in the story.

But as you turned the page, you suddenly felt a strange sensation as if someone was watching you. You looked up and your eyes met those of a boy sitting at the opposite end of the coffee shop, the same boy from earlier. His eyes were fixed on you, and you felt a jolt of surprise shoot through you.

You quickly averted your gaze, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up your neck. You had seen him when you walked in but didn't pay much attention to him. He was tall, with long messy brown hair and what looked to be green eyes. He had looked up briefly, his eyes scanning the room until they rested on you. Now, he was staring at you again, and you couldn't help but wonder why.

You tried to go back to your book, but you couldn't shake off the feeling that you were being watched. You stole a quick glance at him, and found that his gaze was still fixed on you. You looked away again, feeling flustered.