I ran my hand frustratedly through my hair as I walked out of my apartment. It was supposedly a good Sunday morning. I already had my whole day planned but of course my boss just had to come and ruin it for me. Not only was I given a project that I did not design but have to complete, I also needed to finish my own blueprint because I have to get started on supervising the construction for another one of my colleague’s blueprints that was transferred to me after he quit. To make matters worse, I couldn’t even work in my room because there was an excavation that was happening right in front of my apartment building and the noise was just pure hell. So I decided it would probably best if I got out of there. I needed some fresh air anyways.

I decided to head for the cafe I would usually visit but upon seeing the entrance, the place was packed. I figured that given the situation, now is probably a good time to try out the newly opened cafe that was a few blocks away.

My first thought was that the place looked adorable. It had this 70s themed interior that gave it that cozy vibe. The music that was playing was smooth and mellow, perfect for people who sought out a perfect place to read or to study. I grabbed my caffein fix before heading for the solo table beside the glass window and immediately set to work.

I was too preoccupied with the things at hand that I had completely forgot that I was not at home and that I was not using my computer but rather I had with me my laptop that I had not charged sufficiently. Panic rushed through me as the screen on my laptop flashed the words “Low Battery”. I rummaged for my charger in my bag, worried that I might have forgotten it at home. I breathed a sigh of relief when my hand met with a cord which I hurriedly pulled it out. But then it hit me, there wasn’t any available socket I an plug my charger into. Frantically, I looked around in hopes of finding a power outlet I could hopefully plug my charger in. The only available one was beside a round table at the corner of the room, where another boy was sitting. I hesitated, unsure if it would be alright if I shared a table with him. I glanced at the corner of my laptop screen, 5%, I heaved a deep breath before walking towards the said boy. My laptop and charger on hand.

“H-hi, will it be ok if I sat here? My laptop is running out of battery soon and I have a deadline at 5pm, unfortunately this table is the only one near a power outlet.” I asked, slightly embarrassed.

The said boy looked up and I had to remind my heart to stay calm. He has probably one of the cutest single-lidded eyes I have ever seen. His skin is white as snow and he was looking at me with such a cute surprised expression that I had to bite my tongue to stop myself from squealing.

“Oh, sure. Please, feel free.” He responded with a gummy smile that I just can’t help but adore.

“Oh, thank you so much!” I exclaimed. “You’re a life-saver.”

He let out a soft chuckle that sounded like music to my ears. “It’s just me sharing a seat, no biggie. I mean it’s not like I’m waiting for someone or anything.”

“But still, I needed to get this done by then or else my boss will have my head.” I pouted as I sat down, I was about to turn to get something from my bag until I remembered that I left it by my original table.

I was about to stand to get it when I noticed him standing as well. 

“Do you need help moving your things here?” He asked, gesturing towards the original table I was sitting on.

I swear I might have just fallen in love right there and then.

Without saying another word, you walked towards my table and grabbed my bag before placing it on a chair next to me.

“T-thanks.” I stammered, internally slapping myself being so awkward.

“No worries, I wasn’t waiting for anyone anyways. I just don’t like people passing by my table. I find it rather distracting.”

Those were his last words before turning back his notebook. It reminded me that I too needed to get things done.

Silence once again took over but I couldn’t help but look up at him every once in a while, just to catch a glimpse of the way his eyebrows would furrow together as his pen danced across the paper; how he would bite his lips with each pause, unsure of what to write next; how he would ruffle his hair in displeasure with such a cute expression that it took everything I had not to reach out and ruffle it myself.

“So are you working on?” I asked, suddenly breaking the silence.

“Blueprints. I’m an architect for SM Industries.” I explained as I turned my laptop to show him the digitalized blueprints I have been working on.

His eyes and mouth went round in awe. “Wow, you were able to get into SM Industries? I heard it’s a tough company to get to.”

I could feel myself blush. “Well, it’s challenging, but I think people just exaggerated all that.” I smiled. “How about you?”

“I’m a writer.” He responded with a small smile.

Upon realization, I realized that he didn’t even know the other boy’s name.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t even think I’ve actually introduced myself. I’m Luhan” I smiled awkwardly. “You are?”

“Oh, It’s Minseok, but I go by the pen name Xiumin.” He smiled.

“You mean THE Xiumin? The author who wrote ‘The Divina Trilogy’?” I asked, dumbfounded.

His cheeks started turning pink and I couldn’t help but smile at how adorable he looked when he got shy.

“Yeah, I was surprised that the book was such a big hit. When I first read it, I had only planned on writing one book but somehow one book turned to three.” 

“Wow, I didn't know I’m in the presence of someone famous.” I stood up and pretended to bow. “Should I get your autograph or something?” I joked.

“Stop it Luhan, people are staring.” He muttered, looking around as people’s eyes began to trail towards our direction.

“All jokes aside, I think your books are just amazing. My sister loves you too.” I sat back down before smiling back at you with the utmost sincerity. “Are you writing a follow up book?”

You shook your head pouting. “My editor suggested I try writing a romance novel this time. It’s not really my forte but it’s worth a try.”

“So, how is it coming along?”

“Not so well.” You puffed out your cheeks in annoyance. “I keep getting stuck.”

“Well, how about another cup of coffee then. This one is on me.”

No words were exchanged after getting our drinks. This time, I made sure to keep my eyes on my laptop, adjusting measurements and finishing up computations. All was quiet on his end as well, the only thing that reminded me that I was still sitting across someone was the constant scratching of pen on paper. I was just about to finish up the details on my last report when my phone buzzed, signaling the arrival of a text message from my boss.

‘In the office now. Meeting with a client in 10mins.’

My eyes widened in shock. I barely had time to finish my coffee before I was making a quick grab at my things and shoving them inside my bag before bidding quick farewell to the Minseok. I didn’t even have the time to shake hands or to wait for his response before I was bolting out the door and hailing a cab. Five minutes into the ride, I realized that I didn’t even get his phone number.

 

To say that I was in a sour mood that afternoon was an understatement. It was already 1 in the afternoon and the only thing I had that morning was 3 cups of coffee and I was famished. But thankfully the meeting ended well and my boss had given me an extension for everything that I was supposed to accomplish that afternoon; allowing me to hand them in tomorrow afternoon. Deciding that I needed a breather, I decided to walk downtown and head over to this restaurant his sister had recommended me but for some reason, I never did get the chance to try.

As I was seated on the back seat of the cab, events from earlier flashed through my mind. I pulled out his phone, opened the web browser and searched for the person who has been on my mind the whole morning. ‘Xiumin’

It turned out, nothing was really known about Xiumin’s — or rather Minseok’s personal life. He’s rather quiet about his daily activities but reveals to enjoy soccer, dancing and making coffee. As I read on, several articles of Xiumin’s interviews and SNS accounts popped up. One in particular stood out. It was a video of his interview about his views on homouals.

“Xiumin, most of your readers are in their early 20s and a lot of them have expressed their love for your book after one of the characters was hinted to be in a romantic relationship with another of the same gender. What do you think about that?” One of the reporters asked

Xiumin smiled in response. “I firmly believe that we are currently in a world where we should be free to love whoever we want; regardless of gender and uality.’

“Would you say that you’re currently in a relationship with someone of the same now? Is that where you got your inspiration from?”

He let out a soft chuckle. “I am currently not in a relationship now to be honest, but I did get the inspiration from someone I know.”

I didn’t bother finishing the interview; partially because I was already at my stop but mainly because I didn’t know if I wanted to hear what follows. Even though Minseok wasn’t seeing anybody, it was clear to me that he was interested in somebody. I was too focused on scrolling through the different articles, hoping to get a idea if he was currently dating, that I didn’t notice someone standing in front of me which causing me to collide with him.

“Luhan? Fancy seeing you here.”

I eyes widened, the voice, despite the fact that I had only just met the owner, sounded so familiar.

“Minseok? What are you doing here?” I asked in disbelief. Mentally thanking the divine power that brought Minseok and I together again.

“I was getting tired of drinking coffee and thought that maybe a change of scenery would be good for me.” He let out a soft laugh. “How about you? You went out in such a rush that I didn’t even got to ask what happened.”

“Oh that. A client came in and my boss wanted me to talk to them, it all ended well though. In fact my boss moved my deadline so I decided that it’s time I take a short break. I also just realized that I haven’t even eaten anything since this morning.” I laughed nervously. “I’ve always wanted to eat here after my sister recommended it.”

“She has good taste, I always enjoy going here for lunch.” He smiled as he gestured towards the door. “Shall we head inside?”

The restaurant was quaint, with a 50s diner theme. A waitress dressed in a red and white dress approached them with a menu in hand.

“Table for 2?” She asked.

Panic started rising. It was only natural for her to assume that Minseok and I are together, after all, we did arrive at this place together, but I didn’t want him to think I was forcing myself on him. I was about to disagree saying that we came separately but Minseok beat me to it.

“Yes please.” He nodded towards the lady who directed us towards our table for that afternoon.

“You didn’t have to do that, she might assume you and I are together.” I whispered under my breath the moment we sat down.

“I don’t mind. I don’t like eating alone anyways.” He responded with a pout. “And besides, take it as my thank you for the coffee and the company earlier.”

“Well then, if you don’t mind.”

He flashed his gummy smile and I swear I could feel butterflies in my stomach.

“Great, so what do you want to eat?” He asked as he browsed through the menu we were handed earlier.

“Well, since this is your treat, why don’t you decide. I’m not particularly picky when it comes to food and you know this place better than I do so you pick for me.”

He pursed his lips in thought. It took a while before calling over the waitress and placing our orders before handing her back the menu.

“I got us their supreme hamburgers and fries along with a milkshake. Is that good?” He asked.

I nodded. “Sounds good to me.” I wasn’t lying. Just hearing the word hamburger made my stomach rumble and at this rate, I would eat anything that was served to me.

“I still can’t get over how we somehow ended up in the same place once again. Talk about a small world.” He smiled in disbelief.

“Yeah.” I chuckled. “So, any progress in your book?” I asked.

He pursed his lips in thought. “well, I’m doing better that how I was earlier this morning. I’m not exactly used to writing love stories to be honest but I’ve always wanted to give it a try.”

“I’m sure it will turn out great.” I smiled encouragingly.

“I sure hope so, I was actually planning on dedicating this to a certain someone to be honest, I really hope he likes it.” He responded with a shy smile.

“Oh.” I tried my best not to look disappointed. “So, you’re seeing someone at the moment?”

The sudden question took him by surprise, cheeks turning slightly pink in embarrassment. “Well, no, not really, but he actually inspired me in writing this book.”

“Well, I’m sure he’ll like it no matter what.” I smiled.

Silence took over as we both ran out of things to say. Luckily, our food arrived just in time to save us from an awkward moment.

“This is what I would always order here. Their hamburgers are the greatest.” He smiled as he handed me my meal.

I was afraid to open my mouth, in case I start drooling, so instead I chose to keep my mouth closed, smiling politely before saying thanks. The moment I took a bite, I understood why my sister had been pestering me to visit.

“It’s really good.” I exclaimed.

He chuckled. I guess I was a little too enthusiastic about it, but it really was good. “That’s why I kept going here to be honest. I think I might have gained a little bit of weight because of it.”

“I think you look perfect the way you are.” I suddenly blurted out. I glanced up to see him gaping at me. Noticing that I must have made the atmosphere awkward I quickly apologized. “I mean like — your weight seems healthy now. I doesn’t even look like you gained weight.”

He let out a soft laugh as he popped a couple of fries in his mouth. “It’s fine. I guess I just don’t really know how to handle these kinds of conversations.”

“Should we talk about something else then?” I proposed.

Our conversation continued to stay light, talking about work and how it felt like working in a well known corporation. He shared about what it was like being famous and the likes. They shared stories about work and about life; exchanging pleasant stories about their families and other personal details. However, they were once again interrupted by a phone ringing. This time it was Minseok’s.

“Excuse me, I have to take this.” He smiled before grabbing his phone and walking away.

I took this opportunity to finish my meal and bring out my phone, in case he received any messages from my boss, thankfully there were none. Now, I  can continue enjoying my food and just as I was finishing my milkshake, Minseok came back looking mildly annoyed.

“What’s wrong?” I asked

He scrunched up his nose in displeasure. “My editor Jongdae wants me to meet up with another potential publisher. I’m thinking of having my romance book published under a different publishing company you see.”

“Why?”

He shrugged. “I’m widening my options.” He sat down and finished his meal.

“I wanted my romance book to have a different appeal from my other books. It’s my first time to have a romance book published and most of my readers are used to my usual science fiction books. I’m thinking of a way they will be able to enjoy this new book as well.” He replied with a smile.

“Well, I wish you luck with that. I will be looking forward to your new book.” I smiled with utmost sincerity.

“Thank you.” He smiled back. “I guess I better get going then. It’s good seeing you Luhan.” He smiled as he stood up once again, walked over the waitress and paid the bill. “This one is on me.” He called out with a wave before exiting the diner.

For the second time that day, Luhan almost slapped himself for not getting his number.

Luhan walked out of the restaurant slightly dejected but he knew that he shouldn’t be dwelling on that right now. Even if his deadlines have been postponed, it doesn’t mean that he could go slacking off. Deciding that it would be best to keep on working on his blueprints, he decided to visit his usual cafe, hoping that a sense of familiarity will be able to bring me back to my usual work pace. 

 

“Hey Lu! How’s it going?”

A familiar voice greeted me the moment I entered the cafe.

“Hey Jongdae, how is it going?” I smiled as I headed over to the counter to order my usual. Jongdae, who was currently manning the cash register smiled back.

“You’re looking cheerful.” He noted. “Something good happened at work today?”

I looked at him in surprise. “Is it that obvious?”

He let out a hearty laugh. “Well, normally your expression could usually cut glass but somehow your steps seems lighter today.”

“Well, it’s not really at work. I just happened to bump into the author Xiumin on my way for lunch earlier today.” I explained.

I didn’t want to reveal too much of what had happened earlier that day, and there was no way I was going to tell anyone that I had somehow found myself falling in love with said author. That secret, I’m going to carry with me to the grave.

“Wow, lucky you. Though, I never thought you were a fan.” Jongdae smiled as he prepared to punch my order. “The usual I assume?”

I nodded. “I’m not, I just thought it’s something I can rub on my sister’s face.” 

We both chuckled.

“She’ll probably strangle you for not getting at least an autograph or a picture.”

‘And here I am, already feeling bad for not getting his number.’

“Well, I didn’t want to trouble the guy. I already felt embarrassed from knocking him over, I don’t need to make it worse.” I muttered lowly as I sat down at my usual spot facing the window.

I took out my laptop and started working on the project that was just handed to me earlier that morning. I plugged in my headphones and clicked on my working playlist and started to work.

I was completely unaware of what was happening around me until Jongdae poked me on my shoulder. I looked up and saw him holding out my order. I pulled out my earphones accepted the drink gratefully.

“Alright, spill.” Jongdae ordered as he sat down beside me.

I took a sip from my coffee. “Spill what?” I asked feigning innocence.

“Don’t mess with me Luhan, I know something happened earlier so don’t try hiding anything from me. Did you get laid or something?”

I nearly choked on my drink.

“What the—. You don’t ask things like that out of the blue dude.”

“So tell me what has made you all giddy and bright today. You’re practically glowing bro.”

I heaved a sigh. “Do you believe in love at first sight?”

The look on Jongdae’s face just screamed ‘What the hell?’

 

“Seriously bro, you’re sounding like this is a cheesy romance novel or something. It’s gross.” Jongdae scowled.

I shrugged at him. “You asked me to spill and so I did.”

“Well, I’m glad that you feel that way but please don’t be too disappointed if things doesn’t work out the way you want them to.” Jongdae stood up and headed back to work. “That’s how life is. Once you feel that things are finally going your way, it suddenly goes crazy and messes up everything.”

I didn't miss the bitterness in his voice. I wanted to ask what happened; why he meant what he said, but I felt that this might not be the best time to do so. Instead I went back to work, pushing the thought at the back of my mind and focused on accomplishing something that afternoon.

I was pleasantly surprised at the progress of my work. By 5pm, I was able to tick of 2 of the things on my to-do list despite the fact that I still had until tomorrow to finish it. I began fixing my things with a smile; feeling proud of my accomplishments for that afternoon and went to bid Jongdae a goodbye.

“You’re done?” He asked, mildly surprised.

I nodded. “I’ll just have to submit it to the office in case there are revisions needed to be done.”

“Wow, looks like being in love does improve your work.” he teased.

I stuck my tongue at him. “I’m leaving now.”

“See you.”

 

My boss was so impressed that I was able to finish 2 of my assignments that day that he told me I could take the day off tomorrow as long as I send in the rest of my work via email. I was happy that I was able to finish early but I was also glad that I would be able to leave work tomorrow considering that I didn’t even had to go to work today but because it’s my boss, I couldn’t say no, I began packing my things and prepared to leave when I heard one of my co-workers call my name,

“Luhan, someone’s at the lobby looking for you.”

I looked up, confused. “Who?”

The caller just shrugged. “I dunno. If I were you I’d just head downstairs to check it out.”

I grabbed my things quickly before rushing downstairs. I was hoping that the person who was waiting for me was who I think it was but I didn’t want to get my hopes up. Upon reaching the lobby, I my heart might have skipped a beat or two when familiar figure came into view.

“Minseok?” I asked in disbelief.

He looked up, his usual lopsided smile on his face. “Luhan!” I could hear the excitement on his voice.

“What are you doing here?”

He rubbed his neck shyly. “I guess there’s no point in beating around the bush anymore. I wanted to see you again but I didn’t know where you live or where to even start looking for you. And then I remembered you said you work at SM Industries to I decided to try my luck.” His cheeks were turning pink from embarrassment from his confession. “I wasn’t even sure if you were still here but I was hoping.”

“Well, now that you’re here, how about dinner then. My treat this time.” I offered.

“I would like that very much.”

 

“I’m guessing work went well?” He asked.

We were currently having dinner at this fast food chain across the office. I wanted to take him somewhere a little less frugal but he insisted that he hasn’t had the chance to try the food here.

I nodded. “I got more work done that I had anticipated.” I smiled. “Even the boss was impressed.”

“That's good to hear.” He smiled once again. A sight that was starting to become a permanent part of my memory.

“How about you? How’s the writing going?”

“It’s going better than I had anticipated, probably because I have been so inspired lately.” He flashed a knowing smile.

There it is again, the butterflies in my stomach.

“What’s the plot.”

“I read somewhere that people who meet at least 3 different times within a 24-hour period are 98% more likely to fall for each other.” Minseok said as a matter-of-factly. “So I decided to write about 2 people who unexpectedly met at a cafe. One of the characters was looking for a power outlet while the other just happened to be sitting on a table next to one.”

I couldn’t help but smile. “And then?”

“Well, they became friends and one of them just couldn’t keep his mind of the other. He wanted to ask for their phone number but was worried about being too forward. So after meeting a second time, he decided he’d find a way for them to meet a third time and see if theory was true.” He narrated, eyes never leaving mine.

“So, did they really fall for each other?” I asked, a smile finding it’s way to my face.

“Why don’t you stick around to find out.” He chuckled.

“I would love to.”

 

 

 

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