Faking It

9. The beginning

"You know you can't clean the tables forever," Chaeyoung looked up from the register, "and spoil Hank."

Jisoo was exactly doing that.

Chaeyoung had her working again at the cafe, cleaning the tables, making sure everything was organized, and even dressing up Hank.

"Well He's a handsome boy" Jisoo says fixing Hanks little shirt, "Besides the cafe isn't even open, what are we doing here early?" She looked up at the blonde.

"I got some packages sent here," Chaeyoung responded, "and we have to discuss what happened at breakfast." She crossed her arms.

"Very well." Jisoo sighs, "so what's up?"

"What's up is your mom, why did she shoot you down like that?" Chaeyoung frowns,

Chaeyoung leaned against the counter, her arms still crossed, her eyes full of concern. Jisoo could feel the weight of Chaeyoung's gaze as she finished adjusting Hank's tiny shirt, the dog oblivious to the tension between the two women.

Jisoo stood up slowly, brushing her hands against her jeans as if that would help her avoid the conversation. "It's nothing new, really," she finally said, trying to sound nonchalant. "My mom... well, she's always been like that. She has this image in her head of who I should be and what I should do."

Chaeyoung raised an eyebrow. "That doesn't make it right, Jisoo. You deserve to be supported."Jisoo sighed, leaning back against the nearest table. "I know that. I do. It's just... easier to let her think she's in control sometimes. If I push back too hard, it becomes a warzone in the house. And I don't want to deal with that. Not yet, at least."

Chaeyoung frowned, her eyes softening as she walked over to Jisoo. She gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "I get it. But, you know, I don't think you should have to keep doing that. You shouldn't have to play by their rules just because they can't see how incredible you are."

Jisoo's heart skipped a beat at Chaeyoung's words, and she found herself smiling despite the heavy topic. "I didn't think you'd be the one giving me pep talks."

"Why not?" Chaeyoung grinned. "I'm full of surprises."

Jisoo rolled her eyes playfully. "Maybe. But seriously, thank you for standing up for me at breakfast. You didn't have to, but it means a lot."

Chaeyoung shrugged like it was no big deal, but Jisoo could tell that it was. "I'll always have your back. Just remember that, okay?"

"Okay," Jisoo said softly, the sincerity of Chaeyoung's words lingering in the air between them.There was a knock on the door, interrupting the moment. Chaeyoung stepped away, heading to the front to unlock the door. A delivery man stood outside, holding a couple of large boxes.

"Perfect timing," Chaeyoung muttered as she signed for the packages. She dragged them inside, setting them down by the counter.

"What's in them?" Jisoo asked, curious now.

"New uniforms," Chaeyoung said, peeling back the tape on one of the boxes. "I've been thinking about a rebrand for the cafe. Something fresh, something that matches our vibe better."

Jisoo's eyes lit up. "That sounds exciting!"

Chaeyoung chuckled. "Yeah, I figured it's time for a change. Plus, I want you to have a say in it. You're becoming a big part of this place."

Jisoo smiled, feeling a sense of pride swell inside her. "I'd love that."

Chaeyoung opened the box fully, pulling out the uniforms. They were sleek, modern, and had just the right amount of personality to match the cafe's atmosphere. Jisoo reached out to touch the fabric, nodding in approval.

"This is perfect," Jisoo said. "It's simple but stylish."

"Just like you," Chaeyoung teased, smirking.

Jisoo laughed, shaking her head. "You really are full of surprises, huh?"

"Maybe I am." Chaeyoung winked, handing Jisoo a uniform. "Now, let's see how it looks on you."

Jisoo took the uniform with a playful roll of her eyes and headed to the back to change, leaving Chaeyoung behind with Hank, who was happily rolling around in his little shirt.As Jisoo changed, her mind wandered back to the breakfast and the dynamic of her family. Chaeyoung was right, she shouldn't have to keep bending to her family's expectations. Maybe it was time to really start standing up for herself-just like Chaeyoung had done for her.She stepped out of the back in her new uniform, catching Chaeyoung's attention immediately. The blonde turned around and smiled, her eyes lighting up at the sight of Jisoo.

"You look amazing," Chaeyoung said, her voice soft with admiration.Jisoo smiled back, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "Thanks, Chaeyoung. For everything."

Chaeyoung nodded, her expression serious for just a moment before breaking into a playful grin. "Now, let's get this place ready to open. We've got a cafe to run, and I think we're going to make a great team."

Jisoo couldn't help but laugh as she grabbed a broom and started sweeping. "Yeah, we are. And I'm ready for whatever comes next."

"Good," Chaeyoung replied, "because this is just The Beginning."