Trash Can Guide by Daldare

14-15

14

If Hayan hadn't hurriedly held Nabin close and blocked his view with the coat he was wearing, Nabin might have had a seizure in the crowded place. Fortunately, once his vision was obscured and he was enveloped in warmth, his irregular breathing began to calm down.

" I should've rented the whole place", Hayan murmured to himself.

Renting out the entire department store outside of business hours was definitely doable. Hayan had opted out of the services offered by the store, because he wanted to browse with Nabin like a regular customer, but he overlooked the fact that Nabin might be afraid of crowds. It was Hayan's mistake.

"It's okay..."

Nabin felt guilty because he was constantly putting Hayan in difficult situations. Even though it wasn't his fault, hearing Hayan apologize made him feel even worse. The comfort he had felt moments ago in Hayan's embrace was replaced by guilt.

Nabin began to fidget slightly, signalling that he wanted to be unshielded again. Hayan gently patted his back and quietly asked,

"Is it less scary if I hold you?"

Nabin's movements suddenly halted. Despite feeling embarrassed and guilty for being held like a child, the large fear seemed to consume him, vanished when he was in Hayan's arms. Nabin nodded slightly.

"Then let's stay like this. Is that okay?"

"...Yes."

It felt even more inconsiderate to insist on being put down after Hayan had gone out of his way to make him feel safe. Nabin stopped his fidgeting and leaned into Hayan.

Although the Esper could place orders for the furniture he wanted for the mansion later, he first wanted to buy clothes for Nabin. Since he didn't know Nabin's preferences, he planned to observe the clothes Nabin chose and fill his wardrobe accordingly.

Hayan had taken Nabin out because he thought staying cooped up in the mansion would be stifling. Judging by Nabin's reaction, it seemed like a rash decision. However, seeing him find solace in his arms filled Hayan with a strange, satisfying feeling.

"Welcome, Mr. Lee Hayan Esper."

They had walked into a brand store he frequently patronized. The manager approached with a well-practiced smile.

It had been a while since Hayan had visited the department store due to his busy missions, but he conversed with the manager effortlessly.

"I'd like to see the new arrivals."

"Right this way."

This brand was among the most expensive in the department store. Hayan was the kind of customer who could clear a month's worth of sales in a single visit. The manager led him to the VIP room in the back of the store.

Though curious about the person Hayan was carrying, the manager knew better than to pry. Drawing from years of experience, he hid his curiosity behind a practiced smile.

"What kind of beverages would you like, Nabin?", he asked, before turning to the manager. "Do you have fresh fruit juice?"

"Yes, we have orange juice and strawberry juice."

"One of each, please."

"Understood."

In the past, Hayan would either drink nothing or request a single espresso. Today's choice seemed to be for the person he was carrying, rather than himself. Following the manager's instructions, an employee brought two glasses of freshly made juice.

"Shall I start by showing you the new arrivals?"

"Yes, please bring them one by one in the smallest size and have the staff leave us."