SHADOWS OF DECEIT

Chapter 3

Joshua trailed behind Samuel, occasionally chiming in as the younger enthusiastically rambled on about the local area. Samuel pointed out nearby convenience stores and shops for daily necessities, often lighting up when they passed his favourite fast-food spots, speaking with the kind of excitement only youth could muster.

The streets were bustling with energy, crowded with a sea of young, wild souls. The kind of people who seemed to live for the moment, unburdened by the weight of the future. Just as Samuel had said—they lived solely for themselves, untethered by responsibility or concern for anyone else. The world beyond their immediate desires seemed distant and irrelevant. Joshua could see it in their carefree expressions, their laughter ringing through the air. Nothing mattered, and no one mattered—except themselves.

He chuckled softly at the thought, an amused but weary smile tugging at the corners of his lips. It was a culture shock, in a way. These kids were quick to move forward quick to abandon others in pursuit of their own path. It wasn't personal, it was just how they were. Samuel was proof of that—he'd been left behind before. Ditched, as Joshua had come to understand. It was just how things worked around here.

Still, Joshua couldn't help but feel out of place. He'd witnessed scenes that disturbed him—some heart breaking, others downright troubling. Despite being in his early twenties, there was a distinct sense of age that clung to him, as though he'd lived a thousand lives in contrast to the reckless abandon of the youth around him.

He couldn't shake the feeling that he didn't quite belong here. Too old for this world, and yet... still young enough to be caught up in it.

Samuel swaggered into the bar, which was far too lively for an afternoon. Though the crowd wasn't packed, it was still more than expected for this time of day. With a casual swing in his step, Samuel greeted familiar faces with ease, exchanging hollers with those who called out to him. He made his way directly to the counter, exuding the kind of effortless confidence that seemed to come naturally to him.

Joshua followed a few steps behind, unsure why he was there. He knew he was here for a job—that much was clear—but beyond that, the rest was a blur. The chaotic energy of the place felt disorienting.

As Samuel leaned casually against the bar, Joshua stood a bit awkwardly, still trying to make sense of it all. He was barely paying attention until the bartender addressed Samuel from behind the counter. The man was a bit older than Samuel, perhaps around Joshua's age, though he appeared more mature. He was tall and impressively built, his neatly slicked-back hair framing a chiseled jaw that tensed slightly as he worked, expertly mixing drinks. His sharp eyes focused on Samuel, and even Joshua couldn't deny the man's striking looks.

"What brings you here at this hour, Sam?" the bartender asked, his voice calm but curious.

Samuel grinned, his response immediate and bold. "Well, to worship a godlike body, any time is the right time, Joon hyung."

Joshua nearly choked on air at the younger's blatant flirting, eyes widening in disbelief. The casual way Samuel threw out compliments like that was nothing short of audacious, and it left Joshua both stunned and amused.

Joon, the bartender, raised an eyebrow, but there was a faint smirk on his lips as he continued arranging the drinks without missing a beat.

Namjoon chuckled, his deep voice a low rumble that resonated as he expertly mixed drinks, the muscles in his forearms flexing beneath his rolled-up sleeves. His large hands moved with practiced ease, veins prominent, making it hard not to notice just how attractive he was. Joshua caught himself staring, then mentally scolded himself for letting his thoughts wander.

"Well, SamSam, you know if Jin catches you, those tiny ears of yours are going to get tortured," Namjoon teased, flicking Samuel's forehead. Samuel rubbed the spot with a pout, much to the amusement of those nearby.