In Time (In Places Book 2)

#9.5 Teaser

I brought another tray of empty glasses and plates back to the counter and still, Do Kyungsoo is making a set of beverages while throwing Kim Jongin long, shy glances. The latter is standing behind the cashier, drawing lots and lots of customers because of his undying charm which nobody--- not even me --- could actually deny. Jongin isn't always around but I'm quite thankful whenever he is.

I sighed loudly and Kyungsoo looked at me, surprised. "You could ask him out, you know," I said, wiping my hands on my apron. "Jongin doesn't really know how to say 'no' to cute guys. I'm pretty sure about that."

Kyungsoo obviously blushed and I don't know if it's because I caught him staring or because I practically called him cute. "N-No," he muttered as he looked down. "Actually... He kind of asked me out again this morning but-- I don't know--" he stopped and threw me a glance. "I don't think I should be telling you this, sir Baek."

I frowned. "What? Why? We're friends."

"Yeah," he blushed again. "And you're friends with him, too."

"I know, I know," I rolled my eyes. "But it's like he's on Chanyeol's team and you're on mine! C'mon, tell me what it is." I raised both brows and leaned on the counter, looking at Kyungsoo dead on the eyes. This barista really looks like a cute, squishy penguin lost somewhere. He seemed uncomfortable for moment but his shoulders slowly drooped and a long sigh left his lips.

Kyungsoo gave Jongin another cautious glance. "I-It's like-- He's out of my league, you know?" he murmured. "And I am witness to so many girls and guys going here in the cafe mad and messed up and looking for him. I-I don't want to be one of those people. It was horrible."

I bit my lip, thinking, because Kyungsoo isn't a bit lying or overreacting. He isn't even wrong. Kim Jongin is not really the faithful or loyal type of guy and he kinda likes messing up with people's thoughts and feelings. But when he puts his heart into something, he gives it his all. And chases after it.

"Look, Kyungsoo," I started before giving him a kind smile. "I've seen Jongin with all his girlfriends and boyfriends and I was there whenever he rants about his trashy relationships that don't work out from the very start. But no matter what other people say or whatever you see, I still believes he likes you. Like, seriously likes you."

Kyungsoo gave me a confused look. "How can you be so sure?"

"Because Jongin never asked anyone out. Not even once," I said. "He's always the one being asked out. You're like a special case and what, he asked you out for five fcking times already. I know you have all the right the doubtful but... maybe not now."