The Hideout // Petekey AU

vii.

Pete.

I smiled down at Mikey as he glanced up from his notebook.

"Here you go; one mean americano. I threw in an apple scone, I don't know if you like apple or not, but they're my favorite and I thought you'd wanna try it." I began rambling.

"Thanks Pete, I'm sure I'll love it." Mikey responded confidently. He proceeded to sip his coffee, delicately closing his eyes. He lowered the cup with a subconscious smile and deeply sighed, "Mmm, Petethisissogood."

I couldn't help but form a small smirk. "I told you I had skills."

"Honey, I never doubted you." Mikey responded. My heart skipped a beat when he called me honey. I struggled to remain breathing calmly and Mikey bit into the scone, unfazed. How is he always so smooth and confident? "Holy shit Pete, this is amazing."

I did my best to maintain a cool facade. "What can I say, I know my pastries... and my drinks," I forced a small laugh, "anyway, I probably need to get back to the counter, but if you need anything you know where to find me." I sent Mikey a wink. That was so dumb. Why would you do that? You look like an idiot when you wink.

"I'll let you know." Mikey smiled in response, undoubtedly pretending not to judge me.

I walked back behind the counter and began fulfilling drink orders. Patrick walked out from the back room, wiping his hands with a rag.

"Tall blonde and handsome is back," Patrick stated with an almost bitter tone.

I glanced over my shoulder at Mikey. We briefly made eye contact; he provided a shy smile, which I happily returned.

I looked back to Patrick. "Yep, looks like it."

"You guys seem to be friends now."

I flipped the lid on the coffee creamer. "I think we are. I mean, I guess. Why?"

Patrick shrugged as he turned away from me, "Just starting a conversation."

I huffed quietly as he moved to assist a customer. What is his problem? He's really been getting on my nerves lately. And I have to go out with him.

After a good chunk of time, and several avoided conversations with Patrick, I walked toward the dark blonde on the worn leather couch.

"Can I get you a refill or anything?" I asked.

Mikey's light brown eyes met mine. I detected almost a sort of... fondness in them? "I'd love a refill, as long as it tastes as mean as the first one did."

"Oh of course," I beamed. I turned to leave but Mikey stopped me.

"Hey Pete, could you answer something for me?"

"Uh, yeah sure." Ominous.

"Who's he, and why is he staring at me like I'm prey?" Mikey motioned to Patrick. I felt my body tense. Why did Patrick have to come up?

"Oh him? He's, uh, my... coworker. Yup, coworker, Patrick what a good... coworker." My words tumbled out.

"Well, obviously he's your coworker, I mean I doubt those are matching friendship aprons," Mikey drolled, "I'm just confused as to why he has a problem with me... if he does."

"I- uh, I have no idea," I scratched my head awkwardly, "Well let me go make you that refill."

After bringing Mikey his drink, with few words exchanged, we didn't converse much. The Hideout became packed, and with the way I was rushing around, I was certainly earning my paycheck. Before I knew it, Mikey was confidently strolling towards the door.