today ╱ jeongchan

003.

A total lie.

What Chan told Jisung was a total lie, the former figure. As the older found himself standing at the entrance of Levanter Café for the next three consecutive days. Today is the fourth one. He doesn't know either. After all, the chicken salad he got from the previous days wasn't that exceptional compared to what he had from a five-star restaurant. But then again, it was the most decent thing he had in a while after relying on ramen for the past week, and it only cost a quarter of the price from the expensive places he frequented to.

"Yeah, I like it here because they only use organic ingredients," Chan mumbled, a futile attempt to convince himself that he is back for the food and not for a certain male who managed to pique his interest. "I'm here for the healthy food, hah."

Chan completely pushed back the idea of him crushing on the adorable crew, seeing how their exchange was only when he is ordering his foods. An interaction that doesn't last for more than ten minutes. It was quite frustrating, to say the least. He refuses to admit to himself that he is attracted to the younger, but at the same time, he can't help but want to strike even the smallest conversation with him. Just anything beyond the simple greeting, taking of orders and then thanking him.

And today, Chan is pretty determined to change that.

The sound of the bell chiming made Jeongin halt from wiping the countertop, immediately washing his hands before situating himself behind the counter. A male clad in his all-black outfit walked in, and upon closer inspection, Jeongin concluded that this person must have not been sleeping for days. 'The bags under his eyes sums it up.'

Albeit intimidated, Jeongin greeted the male with his usual cheerful smile, just like how he did with the previous customers.

"Welcome to Levanter Café! What can I get you?" Jeongin, greeted with his usual polite smile as he patiently waits for the male to choose.

Chan, much like his previous visits, was welcomed with the same aroma when he stepped inside the shop. The warm feeling spreading all over his tired body and bringing comfort to his chest. Weird. The last time he felt that way was when his mom visited him for his birthday, which was from last year.

He glanced at the expecting male behind the counter, the adorable smile not faltering as he stares up at Chan. The older returned a sheepish smile before mumbling, "For to-go. I'd like to have the Iced Green Tea Matcha Latte and uh..." Chan paused, letting his eyes scan the pastry display next to the counter with a troubled expression. "Do you reckon I should get the Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake or the Tiramisu one?"

Jeongin emitted a giggle, earning a confused look from the older. So, that's what troubles him? Adorable. Jeongin thought.

"This is a personal preference but the Lemon Raspberry one is the best." Jeongin beamed, and Chan did not miss the way the younger's eyes lit up. Twinkling, even. As if he took all the stars in the sky and placed them into his fox-like eyes.

Chan threw a sceptical look, the gesture being mischievous. And Jeongin fell into his trap as the younger hurriedly added, "I can vouch! If it is not good then your next drink is on me!"

"How about a dinner with me instead?" Chan countered, momentarily freezing on his spot once he realized what he just said. Either his mouth developed a new brain or it is working hard to embarrass him. He settled for the latter because it would be weird for his mouth to develop a brain.

He was about to take his words back when Jeongin answered with another round of giggles which sounds a lot like music to Chan's ears. "Deal. How does 7 pm tonight sounds?"