Days at Teyvat University || Modern AU Xiao x Reader

Ch 4. Blossoms & Alchemy

After walking with Xiangling through Teyvat's campus for a bit, you spotted the familiar blue and teal haired duo standing on the sidewalk. Behind them you assumed was the cafe that Xiangling had mentioned earlier. It was at the corner of a street lined with other restaurants, looking a bit out of place with all of  the flora in pots along the wall as well as suspended from hanging planters by the entrance. You could see why it would be a big hit; compared to the chain coffee shops littered across campus that felt like its sole purpose was to help students  fuel up on caffeine, this one gave off a comforting and warm atmosphere. It looked like a nice spot to have a first date. You felt a small smile creep onto your face at the thought. Like you would be going on a date anytime soon, but it couldn't hurt to dream.

As the two of you came closer, Chongyun took notice and glanced up; nudging Xingqiu who had yet to notice the two of you, nose buried in his book. He looked up at and exchanged a few words  before quickly turning his head in your guys' direction, his energy noticeably higher. You gave a small wave as Xiangling began swinging her hand around wildly.

"Chongyun! Xingqiu!" She ran up to them, jumping up to wrestle them into a tight hug. You giggled at the sight, the boys looking like they were struggling to breathe.

"Hey um you might want to loosen your grip a bit?" You cautioned, slightly worried as you noticed Chongyun's body beginning to go limp. She obeyed, giving them one final big squeeze before letting them go.

"It's alright, y/n." Xinqiu choked out, readjusting his clothes while Chongyun had his hands on his knees, catching his breath. "It's to be expected at this point."

"Sorry! I just really missed you guys! It's been so long since we've all hung out together." Xiangling grinned sheepishly.

"It was only a couple days ago." Chongyun wheezed out.

"Still too long!"

"So this is the cafe you were talking about?" You questioned, stepping closer to gold lettering emblazoned on the glass door. "Blossoms & Alchemy." What a pretty name.

"Yep! Ooh, they have a special dish this week!." Xiangling exclaimed, gesturing towards the chalkboard sign to the left of the entrance. On it, the words "Woodland Dream" was written elaborated in chalk, featuring an impressive drawing of a tender fried salmon with assorted vegetables adorning the plate.

Peering into the wall length- glass panes lining the front, you could see that the place had some patrons, but luckily the four of you missed the after-class rush hour.

"Let's go let's go!" Xiangling held the door open, motioning you inside. You tentatively went in first, followed by Xinqiu and Chongyun. You were immediately hit with the light scent of jasmine contrasting with the more robust fragrance of coffee. You stood rooted to your spot for a few seconds, taking in everything. The inside was a lot larger than it looked from the outside, even expanding to a second floor. Light bulbs housed in wooden frames decorated the ceiling, illuminating the cafe as the natural lighting coming in through the glass had begun to wane. In the back was a wall lush with greenery, adorned with white and yellow hydrangeas. In front of it was an oak bench, and you could see a couple of girls taking pictures in front of it. Shelves on the wall showcased various coffee beans and ingredients in glass vials and beakers, as well as other beautiful brewing equipment.

"Welcome!" A gentle voice rang out, grabbing the group's attention to another familiar duo.

"Wow, I didn't know you guys worked here!" You exclaimed, walking closer to the counter Sucrose and Albedo were standing behind.

"Hi y/n, everyone." Albedo said, putting the bright-colored drink he was currently making on a tray with a slice of strawberry shortcake, before handing it off to Sucrose. "Table 4, be careful." Sucrose nodded, before carefully carrying it off, ponytail fluttering behind her.