ATEEZ Imagines

San ✦ Mall Elf

Word count: 2,633

DO NOT read or interact if you're under 14

You trudged up to the Baskin Robbins in the food court, your legs aching and feet burning from being on them all day. You didn't even take time to change out of your uniform, going from your job straight to the food court as soon as lunch break started.
You approached the ice cream joint, dropping your head on the counter.
"One (your favorite ice cream)." You said, holding an index finger up before dropping your hand back down onto the counter.
"Rough day?" Your friend San's voice came from above you.
Lifting your head, you gave him an expression that said "You think?"
"Let's see, some kid waiting in line wiped his boogers on my tights, another one cried... a lot, and it's always a jolly day when someone gets so excited to see Santa that they could just a throw up—and they do! You know who had to clean it up?"
"Let me guess? Santa's happy little helper?"
"Ding, ding, ding. Correct." You rolled your eyes. "So did I have a rough day? You tell me."
"I'll get that ice cream right away."
You watched as San got to work preparing your frozen treat, resting your elbows on the counter. As you were waiting, a little girl ran up, tugging on the bottom of your elf costume.
"Excuse me. When will Santa be back?" She asked.
You turned to the little girl, bending down to the her height, a warm smile on your face.
"He's eating lunch right now, but he'll be back very soon." You assured her.
Suddenly, a woman who you assumed was the girl's mother came hurrying over.
"Sweetie, what are you doing?" She asked, gently pulling the girl away from you. "I'm so sorry." She apologized, giving you a sympathetic look.
"It's totally fine. Don't worry about it." You waved it off.

San, who was watching the whole exchange couldn't help but smile as an overwhelming feeling of adoration took over. Just a moment ago you were complaining about kids and being tired, yet you put on a bright smile for the sweet little girl that just approached you. He watched with a fond gaze as you spoke to the girl, assuring her that Santa was eating lunch and would be back soon. The girl proceeded to ask you what he eats besides cookies because, "He can't eat cookies all the time."

When the girl and her mother walked away, San handed your ice cream to you. You began digging for money, but he stopped you.
"It's on the house."
"What? You have to let me pay you."
"Anybody who has to clean up puke deserves a free ice cream." He told you.
"You're too kind, San." You said, taking the frozen treat from him.
"You deserve it. I know you've had a tough day."
"You're the best."
"I know." He grinned, cutely. "It's almost time for my lunch break. I can see if I can take it early and we can hang out. Does that sound good?"
"I'd love that. I could use some company."
San disappeared in the back only to return a few seconds later.
"Manager says I can take an early lunch break." He beamed. "Let's go."

The two of you found an empty table nearby and took a seat.
"You in the mood for any real food?" San asked. "I'm sure ice cream isn't very filling."
"Maybe a slice of pizza. I'll have to eat something pretty quick. My break ends in about 20 minutes." You told him.
"You stay here and finish your ice cream and I'll order us something, okay?"
"Sounds good. Let me give you some money for my food."
"That's not necessary."
"Again?" You asked.
"Yes."
You opened your mouth to protest, but he stopped you.
"It's just a slice of pizza, Y/n."
You sighed, a reluctant smile playing at your lips. "Alright."