Friendly Idol

Band Members

**Chapter Three**

The next few days at the café carried a different energy. The memory of my conversation with Ni-ki lingered in my thoughts, and I found myself looking forward to each shift with a sense of anticipation. The small, familiar café had turned into a place of potential and possibilities.

One afternoon, just as the sun was beginning to dip, casting long shadows across the floor, the door chimed and Ni-ki walked in. My heart skipped a beat. He wasn't alone this time. A small group of people accompanied him, some of whom I recognized as fellow band members. They were all dressed casually, trying to keep a low profile, but their presence still turned a few heads.

"Hey," Ni-ki greeted me with a smile as he approached the counter. "I brought some friends today."

I returned his smile, trying to keep my composure. "Welcome! What can I get for you all?"

As they placed their orders, I couldn't help but notice how seamlessly Ni-ki interacted with his friends. Despite their fame, they seemed like any other group of young people, joking and chatting comfortably. It made me appreciate the normalcy they craved amidst their hectic lives.

With their orders ready, I carried the tray over to their table. Ni-ki had chosen the same corner spot, a place that now felt like it held a special significance.

"Here you go," I said, setting down their drinks. "Enjoy!"

"Thanks," one of his bandmates said, offering me a friendly smile. "You work here often?"

I nodded. "Yeah, most days. It's a nice place to be."

Ni-ki looked up at me, his eyes twinkling. "Do you have a break soon? Maybe you could join us for a bit?"

I hesitated, glancing around the café. It was a bit busier than usual, but my curiosity and the chance to get to know Ni-ki's friends won out. "Sure, I'll be free in about ten minutes."

"Great, we'll be here," he said, his smile making my heart flutter.

After finishing a few more tasks, I finally took my break and approached their table. Ni-ki scooted over, making room for me to sit beside him.

"So," one of the members started, "how did you and Ni-ki meet?"

I recounted the story of the rainy afternoon, the umbrella, and the unexpected ride home. They listened with interest, their laughter and teasing making the tale even more enjoyable to tell.

"It sounds like a scene out of a drama," one of them commented, grinning.

Ni-ki chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, but real life is often stranger than fiction."

Our conversation flowed effortlessly. They were all warm and engaging, sharing stories from their tours, their training days, and the moments that grounded them. It was easy to forget their celebrity status and see them as just a group of friends who loved music and cherished their bond.

As my break came to an end, I felt that familiar pang of disappointment. "I should get back to work," I said reluctantly.

"Thanks for joining us," Ni-ki said, his smile genuine. "It was nice having you here."

"Anytime," I replied, standing up. "It was great meeting all of you."

They waved and thanked me as I walked back to the counter, a warm feeling spreading through me. The café, once a backdrop for my routine, had become a place of connection and unexpected friendships.

The rest of my shift flew by, the memory of our conversation and laughter buoying me through the busiest moments. As I closed up the café that evening, I felt a sense of contentment and excitement for what might come next. The days ahead seemed brighter, filled with the promise of more shared moments and the unfolding of a story I was eager to continue.