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"Got yourself a fancy bracelet there?"
The customer's voice cut through Jeongin's thoughts, making him look up with wide eyes. He quickly tugs his sleeves down, hiding the glint of the silver bracelet on his wrist. "Uh, yeah," he replied, trying to sound nonchalant.
"So, what can I get for you, sir?" He shifted the pen in his hand, a nervous habit creeping in.
"Espresso for today," Seungmin answered, his gaze lingering on the barista.
"No Americano today?" He raised an eyebrow, glancing at the order slip. He remembered that every time Evelyn was here, he always went for an iced Americano. Nonetheless, he dutifully wrote down the order for espresso.
The older chuckled softly and shook his head. "Just needed a bit of bitterness," he replied with a wry smile, "work's been piling up lately, you know?"
The corner barista's lips curled downwards slightly, and he hummed softly. "Understandable," he mumbled as he continued to prepare the coffee.
"Can I ask where you got that bracelet?" Seungmin pointed at Jeongin's wrist, his curiosity piqued. "The charm is beautiful and... shiny," he added, unable to hide his surprise. That looks expensive, he thought, and a barista has it? It caught him off guard, not because a barista shouldn't have such things, but it was unexpected.
Pausing for a moment, the barista's hand halted at the machine's lever. He chuckled nervously, "Just a gift," he replied softly as the coffee poured into the cup. "...from a friend."
"Or a special friend, huh?" Prompted the older, with a knowing look. What kind of friend gifts such an expensive bracelet? He knew he was delving into personal territory, but he's unable to resist his curiosity.
The barista hand paused mid-air, the steam wand hovering over the milk pitcher. He could feel Seungmin's gaze on him, and a slight flush crept up his neck. How do I answer this without giving too much away? he thought, trying to maintain a casual demeanor.
"Something like that," he finally replied with a small smile, trying to keep his tone light and nonchalant. He continued to steam the milk, his mind racing with thoughts. Special friend... protector... hyung...
Ting Ting.
The bell chimed, signaling someone's arrival. He looked up to see a familiar face, and a smile spread across his lips at the sight.
Chan walked in, his eyes immediately searching for his petal. Upon spotting him, he approached with purpose, his demeanor calm. Jeongin couldn't help but notice the change in his attire; the mafia leader now sported a beige turtleneck and a dark brown coat.
What's so special? he thought, but he didn't get much time to dwell on it as the older was already in front of him. "Hi, hyung..." he greeted.
"Hey, petal," the older responded. "Having a good day?"
