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The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the scent of chocolate filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere inside the bustling cafe. Despite the chilly weather outside, the cozy interior provided comfort to its customers and staff.
However, the cafe's management office was a different story. The air conditioner blew cold air, causing goosebumps to rise on Jeongin's skin, even though he was dressed in warm winter clothes. Anxiety gripped him tightly, making his legs shake uncontrollably as he clutched onto his sweater's paws.
It had only been six days since he moved into Chris' mansion, and just two days since their shopping spree at the mall. Yet, it felt like his life had turned upside down in such a short span of time. One moment, Chris was sending his men to scout for suitable cafes for him to work in, and the next, they were already here, sitting in front of the cafe management office for a job opportunity. Everything was happening so fast, and Jeongin's mind was struggling to keep up.
Lost in his thoughts, he didn't notice Chris' hand gently wrapping around his shoulder. The comforting touch brought him back to the present, and he looked at Chris, who was sitting beside him with a concerned expression. Without even needing to say a word, Chris's warm eyes seemed to ask if Jeongin was alright.
"Hyung.. Can you.. Can I hold your hand?"
It was almost a whisper, as Jeongin was too nervous to speak properly. With a gentle smile, Chris nodded and offered his hand to Jeongin, taking it off his shoulder. The younger immediately held on to his hand, intertwining their fingers, and their hands fit perfectly together. Jeongin felt tingles over his hand from the warmth of Chris' palm against his cold one. A slight smile tugged at Jeongin's lips as he looked down at his lap, wondering how it would feel to cuddle with him.
No, he was asking for too much.
The peaceful silence in the room was interrupted by the creaking of the office door. A middle-aged man entered, and both Chris and Jeongin stood up to greet him with polite bows. The man took his seat, his expression reflecting a hint of concern, but he started the conversation anyway, "I wasn't expecting you here, Mr. Bang."
Chris raised an intrigued eyebrow, a soft chuckle escaping his lips as he replied in his usual calm demeanor, "Well, surprise, Mr. Park. It was something important that brought me here. I've been on the lookout for some good cafes for my... friend here to work, and this one seems to be the best option."
Mr. Park shifted his focus to Jeongin, who was visibly anxious and fidgeting. Feeling his nerves, Jeongin discreetly tugged at Chris's pinky finger with his own. Understanding the unspoken plea, Chris placed a reassuring hand on the younger boy's trembling leg, and in response, Jeongin gently intertwined their fingers again.
"Oh, is that so? Well, that's great 'cause we've been in need of some new staff here," Mr. Park inquired, visibly relieved that it wasn't a grave matter that brought Chris to his cafe. Whenever The Bang Christopher showed up, it usually meant something significant or trouble brewing.
Chris gave Jeongin's hand a gentle squeeze, silently encouraging him to speak up. Gathering his courage, Jeongin glanced at the older before finally opening his mouth, his voice trembling slightly, "Yes, Mr. Park. I do have some work experience. I used to work in a small cafe near my school."
Mr. Park nodded, "He seems hardworking. I think I'll arrange trial shifts for him starting tomorrow. If he performs well, the job will be his."
Jeongin was about to say something, but Chris smoothly interrupted him, "I don't believe there's any need for trial shifts. If necessary, then arrange them for next week," his tone assertive and unwavering.
Mr. Park was taken aback by the sudden change in Chris's demeanor. He gulped nervously, "It's completely okay, Mr. Bang. He can start his trial shifts from next week."
"Good, that settles it. Thank you for your time," Chris said as he gracefully got up from his chair, and Jeongin followed suit. They bid their goodbyes to the manager and took their leave from the office.
As they descended the stairs, Chris wrapped his arm around Jeongin's shoulder, giving him a ligh rub. "You did good in there, Jeongin!" he complimented, a warm smile gracing his lips.
Jeongin shyly smiled back and murmured a quiet "Thank you, Chan hyung." He continued, "It couldn't have happened without you, thank you for being there for me."
With a happy voice, Chris exclaimed, "Always, Inn-Jeongin, and you'll do great at work, believe me." His smile was so bright that it made his eyes disappear.
Jeongin couldn't help but wonder about the ever-changing facets of Chris's demeanor. One moment, he exuded an intimidating aura, and the next, he transformed into a literal fluff ball. Jeongin yearned to uncover the secrets that the older seemed to be concealing.
Suddenly, Chris came to a halt, realizing something. "Oh, shit, I think I forgot my phone there. Jeongin, go and wait for me in the car; I'll be there in a minute." Jeongin nodded, wearing a slight smile as he walked towards the car.
As Chris climbed back up the stairs, he couldn't help but feel his ears heating up. He realized he was dangerously close to calling Jeongin by an adorable nickname. God, the things this boy makes him feel, it's feels so wrong and right at the same time. Taking a deep breath, he reminded himself to be cautious with his words and actions around Jeongin. He didn't want to make the younger uncomfortable or rush into anything that might complicate their growing connection.
The manager stood up, his eyes widening in surprise as the door flung open, revealing Chris. "Y-you are here again, any problem, Mr. Bang?" he asked nervously.
Chris walked confidently towards him, hands in his pockets, and replied, "Well, I don't want to waste my time, so listen carefully. Jeongin is really important to me, and I expect each and every person here to treat him with respect and kindness."
The manager gulped audibly as Chris stood inches away, his intense gaze piercing through him like sharp daggers. Chris spoke in his ice-cold voice, "I hope I made myself abundantly clear, Mr. Park. If I ever find out something is wrong, you know me."
"I-I understand, I assure you, we'll treat him well," the manager stammered, nodding rapidly as panic surged through his veins.
"Good, because I'm always watching, and my bodyguards will be here," Chris's tone remained firm, a slight smirk playing on his lips. He turned on his heels and left the room, leaving behind a sweaty Mr. Park in the air-conditioned office and despite the chilly weather outside.
Chris quickened his steps towards the car, not wanting to keep the younger waiting any longer. Jeongin stood by the car, slightly pouting as he fidgeted with the coat Chris had left inside. The sight tugged at Chris's heartstrings. He didn't want Jeongin to work, but if it made him feel better, Chris was willing to support him. He understood that he couldn't keep Jeongin in a gilded cage, even though he wished he could. If it were up to him, he would keep Jeongin all to himself, but reality was much harsher.
The world they lived in was dangerous, very dangerous, and Chris knew it would be a risk for both of them.
As Chris's phone rang, he retrieved it from his pocket and noticed the call was from an unknown number. Annoyed but curious, he reluctantly answered the call, muttering a cautious, "Hello?"
The voice on the other end of the line sent chills down his spine as it cryptically said, "Guess who's back?"
