Charming, To Say The Least ## Nahyuck

Chapter 2

"Welcome...back?" Donghyuck squints from behind the counter at the customer who appears to be the new one from yesterday, except his memory is shit.

"Thanks. Any other recommendations?" New Boy asks. Today he's brought his dog with him and although technically pets weren't allowed, Donghyuck would let it slide- it wasn't like he would be staying for more than a couple minutes. Also, dogs are cute. Better than humans.

"Hope is also pretty popular."

"How is it different from Happiness?" Donghyuck thought for a moment, fiddling with his apron knot.

"It's...more subtle. Some bitter notes, I'd say. Also takes longer to kick in." New Boy nods, peering through the glass at the rainbow tubs.

"I guess I'll take that today then."

"Great." The register opens. "May I ask...your name?"

"His name is Jaemin," a different voice comes from the floor, and 'Jaemin' leans down for a moment and there's a few muffled protests. He stands back up and apologises.

"Talking dog? You'll fit in fine here, in that case. It's a small place," Donghyuck hands over his order and even offers a smile at the dog.

"What's your name then?" Jaemin asks almost jokingly and is mildly shocked when Donghyuck actually gives it.

"I see. That Happiness from yesterday was pretty good by the way. The same could not be said for that outfit..." Jaemin eyes him up and down, though oddly it didn't feel rude. Slightly judgy, yes, but Donghyuck would also judge a guy wearing black pants, black hoodie and pastel pink apron with the store's bunny logo smack in the middle.

"I get that a lot from the new ones," he leans against the counter with his elbows. "What brings you to this humble town then? The magic hypnotise you? The dog told you to? Th-"

"My dad got a job near by, actually," Jaemin interrupts with that tactful smile of his. Donghyuck is nearly visibly disappointed, and stands back up properly as he sees one his usuals hovering down the lane.

"Ah. Well."

"I'll get going then. See you!" Jaemin gathers up the leash and waves goodbye with his ice cream hand. Donghyuck sees him nod politely at one of his usuals, and the door dings again, though he swears Jaemin left a trail of sparkles for a tip.

"Never seen him around before. It's been a while since I've seen you make a friend your age," the woman says as Donghyuck summons the spoon to take her usual order- 3 quarters Pride and 1 quarter Youth. "Do you see that sweet pink aura? He's a cookie, for sure." He chuckles, opening up the register once again.

"A cookie for sure," he echoes.