raspberries and mocha | heejake ✔

22

Jake's eyes sparkled with excitement, and for the first time that day, Heeseung felt something other than stress. He felt...content. Even with the mess of his shift, Jake was the one constant that made everything feel worth it.

As Jake lingered by the counter, waiting for Heeseung to finish his work, Heeseung couldn't help but glance at him every now and then. He still couldn't believe how someone as effortlessly charming as Jake had found his way into his hectic life. But he had, and for that, Heeseung was grateful.

The rest of his shift went by faster than usual. And once it was over, Heeseung wasted no time in pulling Jake outside, their laughter filling the air as they walked into the cool evening.

"You really made today better," Heeseung said, his voice sincere.

Jake shrugged, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Well, that's my job, isn't it?"

And as they strolled down the street together, the weight of the world seemed to fall away. It was just the two of them, and for now, that was all Heeseung needed.

They walked side by side, the cool evening air wrapping around them like a comforting blanket. The streetlights flickered to life, casting a warm glow that illuminated their path. Jake was animatedly talking about his day, recounting funny moments with friends, and Heeseung couldn't help but smile at the way his eyes lit up with every story.

"And then Sunoo tripped over his own feet while trying to prank that girl! You should have seen it, he looked like a fucking coward!" Jake laughed, and Heeseung found himself laughing along, the sound of Jake's joy infectious.

"I can totally picture it," Heeseung replied, shaking his head. Seems like something he would do while trying to prank someone. "He never seems to learn, does he?"

"Not at all. Sunghoon supposedly filmed the entire thing." Jake added, trying to contain his laughter. "Now that's something I need to see."

As they reached a small outdoor eatery, the scent of grilled meats and spices wafted toward them. Jake's eyes widened with excitement. "Ooh! Let's get some food here! I've heard great things about their skewers."

"Sure, I'm down," Heeseung agreed, feeling a sudden pang of hunger in his stomach. They stepped up to the counter and ordered a couple of beef skewers along with spicy dipping sauce. As they waited, Jake turned to Heeseung, a mischievous grin forming on his lips.

"Okay, serious question," Jake said, leaning in slightly. "If you could only eat one type of food for the rest of your life, what would it be?"

Heeseung didn't even need to think for this question. "Too easy. Regular ramen anyday. Nothing will ever beat that shit for me. What about you?"

"Finally, somebody that gets me on the basic stuff." Jake proudly announced.

"Mm," Heeseung replied as their food was handed over. They found a small table under a string of twinkling lights and sat down, the atmosphere cozy and inviting. Heeseung took a bite of his skewer and closed his eyes, savoring the flavors.

"Holy fuck," Jake exclaimed, and he nodded vigorously, already devouring his own skewer.

After a few moments of comfortable silence, Heeseung glanced up at Jake, who was grinning at him with that boyish charm. "You know, I really like this. Just us, hanging out. It feels...nice."

Jake met his gaze, the warmth in his eyes softening into something more sincere. "Mm, it really does. I like seeing you outside of work, like, in a normal setting. You seem more free and a lot more human, you know?"

Heeseung felt a rush of warmth at Jake's words, a flutter in his chest. "Thanks, Jake. I'm glad you came to visit me today. You definitely brightened my shift."

Jake's playful demeanor shifted slightly, and he leaned closer, lowering his voice. "You know, I'd love to see more of you. Like, outside of work hours. 

Heeseung pondered. "Maybe a movie night or something?"

"Are you asking me out on a date, Heeseung?" Jake teased, raising an eyebrow.

"Maybe," Heeseung said with a playful smirk, leaning back in his chair as if to reclaim some nonchalance. "What if I am?"

"Well, if that's the case, I'd say it's a yes," Jake replied, unable to suppress a smile. "I'd love to spend more time with you."

Their eyes locked for a moment, and Heeseung felt a flutter in his stomach. The moment was electric, charged with possibilities that hung in the air between them.

"Great! It's a date then!" Jake said, breaking the tension as he reached for another skewer, but not before giving Heeseung a quick wink.

They continued their dinner, laughing and joking, feeding each other their skewers as they each tried to convince the other that theirs was better. With every passing moment, Heeseung found himself falling deeper for Jake—his laughter, his spirit, the way he effortlessly lit up the room.

As they finished their meal and stood to leave, Heeseung took Jake's hand, intertwining their fingers. The contact sent a rush of warmth through Heeseung, and he couldn't help but smile at Jake, who was looking up at him with that infectious grin.

"Where to next?" Heeseung asked, feeling giddy and free.

Jake shrugged, looking contemplative for a moment. "How about a walk? I know a nice park nearby."

"Anything you want," Heeseung replied, and they set off, fingers still intertwined, hearts racing with the thrill of the night.