Caffeine || CHOI SOOBIN FF

ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝟜𝟚

~Wohooo quick update but another filler chapterrrrr.~

-Start of Chapter 42-

The dim lighting casts a cozy glow over the café. The doors are locked, chairs stacked, and the usual hustle of customers is replaced by the low chatter of familiar voices. We're all gathered here—me, Hana, Seojun, Seoha, Iseul, and Nari—celebrating after a long day. And by "celebrating," I mean unwinding with a few drinks now that the café is closed for the Saturday night.

Finallyyy a rest day tomorrowww!!!

I lean back in my chair, the cool can of beer in my hand as I watch Nari bounce in her seat, practically beaming with excitement. She's been overly bubbly all evening, but I can't help but smile at how excited she is to officially join our little group.

She and Seojun don't have beer because they don't like it. Instead they are just having Coca Cola... Oh well, I guess Seojun's not alone anymore.

"Cheers to Nari on her first week!" Iseul says, raising her glass. "You survived!"

We all laugh and clink cans, the sound echoing in the peaceful space. Nari giggles, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Thank you! It's been so fun working here. You guys are all so nice."

Seoha leans against the counter, taking a sip of his drink. "Well, if Y/N noon is training you, you're in good hands. She runs this place like a well-oiled machine."

I roll my eyes, setting my glass down. "Don't exaggerate. But I'm glad you're settling in, Nari. I know starting a new job can be a lot."

Nari nods enthusiastically. "Oh, definitely! But it helps that I already feel comfortable with everyone here. I mean, I go to the same university as Hana and Seojun, so it's nice having familiar faces."

I pause for a split second. Wait. No one mentioned anything about her going to the same university. But I quickly brush it off, sipping my drink. I must've forgotten if someone mentioned it.

Hana, completely unfazed, grins at Nari. "Oh, really? That's awesome! I guess you're one of my juniors then. How are you finding everything so far?"

"Oh, it's great!" Nari replies with her usual pep. "But there's so much to get used to! I mean, the campus is huge, and the classes are tough, but it's fun."

Seojun chuckles. "Yeah, get ready. It's only going to get harder from here."

Hana playfully nudges Seojun. "Don't scare her! She'll be fine." Turning back to Nari, she adds, "If you need anything, just let me know. I've been through all of it, so I can help."

"Thanks, Unnie!" Nari's eyes sparkle with gratitude, and I can't help but smile at how innocent and sweet she seems. "So, how long have you and Seojun-ssi been dating?" Nari suddenly asks, glancing between them with curious eyes.

Hana laughs, shaking her head. "A longggg time. So nothing new there."

Seojun grins, casually wrapping an arm around Hana. "Yup. She's stuck with me now."

The group bursts into laughter as Hana playfully shoves him, but the blush on her cheeks says she doesn't mind at all. Nari watches them with wide eyes, a dreamy look on her face, almost like she's witnessing her favourite romance drama in real life.

I take another sip, watching the scene unfold. It's moments like these that make me feel content—being surrounded by people I care about, just enjoying each other's company.