The sweet, cedar scent swirled in harmony with the smell of roasted coffee beans, wafted around the cafe full of festive decorations. Mistletoe hanging right by the entrance, wrapped presents lined up underneath the giant Christmas tree and not to mention the workers’ cute Christmas costume to match the holiday mood. Both Minseok and Baekhyun donned matching uniforms after Mr Kim had convinced them it was good for the sales. They had no choice but to comply.

 

After handing out a customer’s order, Baekhyun looked out the large window and onto the streets, all full of red, green and twinkling lights. A couple of people passed by their humble little cafe, linking arms as they laughed and giggled at whatever joke their partner had said. Their gazes were always full of love and affection, their eyes glistening with happiness. Baekhyun continued to stare on in wonder as a young family passed by; the child had the widest smile stretched on her face with both her parents holding her hands. The man couldn’t help but smile.

 

Baekhyun was so lost in his own world, he missed the bell sound slowly approaching him, unaware of his mischievous colleague's intention to play him. “What are you thinking about?” The man breathed on Baekhyun’s ear, causing the latter to jump out of his skin.

 

“Kim Minseok!” Baekhyun exclaimed as he elbowed his best friend in the stomach. He turned around and was ready to throw hands at Minseok, “What was that for?!”

 

Minseok gave Baekhyun a hearty laugh as he jogged around the counter, escaping from the latter’s playful punches. “Just because… You look so out of it. What’s up? You feel a little lonely this Christmas? How is it? Want me to introduce you to someone I know? There’s this frequent customer I’ve been talking to...” Minseok jerked his eyebrows mischievously, the corner of his lips curled in a way that made him look like a kitten.

 

Baekhyun scoffed, “Thank you so much for the offer but no. I’m kinda busy right now.”

 

“One is never too busy for romance, Byun Baekhyun. Or is it because you already have found one?” Minseok didn’t believe his best friend one bit. He knows how much of a romanticist Baekhyun is so when the latter denied his offer to new chances, that could only mean one thing; the man had gotten himself a new interest.

 

After hearing Minseok’s last sentence, Chanyeol’s face immediately popped up in Baekhyun’s mind, causing the latter’s cheeks to be tainted in pink.

 

Minseok's eyes blew wide open after noticing the crimson tint on Baekhyun’s cheeks. Baekhyun should have known better, after being friends for years, it was easy for Minseok to spot the littlest reaction the former would conjure. That’s what being best friends is like. “You DO have someone you like!” Minseok was giddy, happy to know this fact.

 

“I do not!” Baekhyun didn’t know whether he was trying to deny what Minseok was saying or was he denying his feelings for Chanyeol.

 

Minseok ignored Baekhyun’s denials, arms propping his head on the counter, eyes sparkling with excitement - happy for his friend’s new found love. “Have you confessed? Does he like you back?”

 

The last question had taken Baekhyun aback. The man had been nothing but nice to him all this while but Baekhyun knew better than to take his kindness as a sign of attraction. Does Chanyeol like him? As a friend, maybe. Yeah but romantically? Baekhyun didn’t dare to put any hope on that. “I-I don’t know…” Baekhyun hung his head low, playing with the hem of his Christmas costume. Half of him wanted to be more than just friends with the tall man but something was holding him back.

 

Minseok saw the gloom on Baekhyun’s face and a pang of guilt stabbed him. Minseok patted Baekhyun’s shoulder, “It’s okay, man. I know for sure he likes you back.”

 

“How would you know that?” Baekhyun’s tone of voice was not of disbelief or doubt. His voice was genuine almost as if he was asking for reassurance.

 

“You are Byun Baekhyun. Anyone that doesn’t fall for you is either blind or just really stupid.” Minseok gave his friend an encouraging squeeze on the shoulder, letting Baekhyun know he meant what he said, earning him a small smile in return.

 

“Thanks man.” Baekhyun squeezed his hand in. Baekhyun believed him.

 

Whenever Baekhyun is in low spirits, trust Minseok to lift them up. Baekhyun began telling Minseok everything that had happened; how he met Jiyong and his so-called attempted kidnapping - Baekhyun still feels bad about that - his encounter with Jongdae at the nursery and how beautiful and angelic Jiyong is.

 

That night after their shift ended, Minseok had offered to take him home again and this time, Baekhyun didn’t decline. “We’re here, Baek.” Minseok lifted his shoulder slightly, gently waking Baekhyun up as the man dozed off along the way.

 

“Hmm…” The man hummed his reply, climbing off Minseok’s Vespa and handed back his borrowed helmet. Baekhyun rubbed his sleepy eyes and took his earphones off. Loey’s voice was really soothing and pleasant to hear. “A cup of tea before you go?” The barista offered Minseok.

 

“Actually, can you let me crash in your place?”

 

“Fought with Jongdae again?”

 

“We did not fight.”

 

“And I’m Beyonce. Come on. I’m dead tired.”

 

+

 

That morning, Chanyeol got up as usual to get ready for work, cooked breakfast and packed Jiyong’s bag. He had dressed the boy up prim and proper, all set for an awesome day at the nursery while Chanyeol wore his usual oversized hoodie and jogger pants. Chanyeol made sure the door to his unit was locked shut, hearing it beep before knocking on Baekhyun’s door.

 

Suddenly, a man walked out from Baekhyun’s unit. The man came out so abruptly, hitting Chanyeol straight on his head with the door.

 

“I am so sorry! Are you okay?” The man apologized, bowing his head a few times to Chanyeol. The stranger strongly reminded Chanyeol of a cat, with big, sharp eyes and curled lips like that, anyone would relate him to a cat. The man turned around before slamming the door shut, “Baekhyun, I’ll wait for you at the elevator!”

 

Minutes later, another man had bursted out from the door. This time it was Baekhyun. “What, wait!” Baekhyun tried to catch up with Minseok, “Can’t you just wait for 5 freaking oh- good morning Chanyeol.”

 

“Morning Baekhyun.” Chanyeol returned the greeting. He wanted to ask Baekhyun about the man before but didn't know how to do so. ‘Who was that?’ ‘Your friend?’ ‘I saw someone walking out from your apartment just now. Is he your friend?’ Would the question bother Baekhyun?

 

Baekhyun crouched down, patting Jiyong’s well-styled hair. “Hey Jiyong.”

 

“Good morning Baekhyun-ie hyung. Who was that?”

 

Chanyeol's head snapped towards Jiyong so fast, you can’t just ask him directly like that, Jiyong-ah. Oh, the privilege of an innocent child.

 

“Oh, him?” Baekhyun pointed to Minseok who was busy scrolling his phone, waiting for the elevator to come. “That’s hyung’s best friend. He stayed for a night in hyung’s house.”

 

Jiyong turned around and bowed at Minseok, to which Minseok returned the gesture. Jiyong let Baekhyun pat his head, feeling proud as Baekhyun showered him with compliments. “Baekhyun-ie hyung, you have something in your box.”

 

Baekhyun glanced at his letterbox, “Oh you’re right.” The barista took it and put it inside his bag before peppering Jiyong’s cheeks with kisses, tickling the little boy as he hugged the little bean tightly. Baekhyun looked up at Chanyeol, flashing him the most dazzling smile Chanyeol had ever seen. The elevator ride was so quiet, none of them spoke a word. “Be careful with the traffic, Minseok. See you at the cafe later.”

 

“You too.” Minseok replied as he sped off on his Vespa, leaving Baekhyun, Chanyeol and Jiyong to take the bus. Chanyeol had so many questions for Baekhyun but he couldn’t seem to ask any of it.

 

Even after he had clocked in, his mind was still on the cat-like dude walking out of Baekhyun’s apartment.

 

Is he a friend? Normally friends wouldn’t stay one night unless it was the weekend or they had been drinking the night before but Baekhyun didn’t seem hungover at all. Logically speaking, no sane worker would drink on weeknights. Was he really just a friend? Chanyeol didn’t dare to think about it. Chanyeol let out an exasperated grunt, tousling his hair.

 

Unbeknown to Chanyeol, his cousin was looking at him this whole time with bored eyes. He contemplated going over to Chanyeol however knowing that night would be their broadcast and he as the producer slash board operator needs to make sure the RJ is ready and well prepared. Although, he believes Chanyeol wouldn’t have any problem hosting as he knows how professional his cousin is. Kyungsoo waddled over anyways to Chanyeol’s desk, “Meeting in 5.” He said and continued, “Are you okay?”

 

Chanyeol hadn't noticed Kyungsoo coming over to him until the latter were hovering next to him. Kyungsoo! Maybe by asking his cousin, he could understand Baekhyun and his friend’s situation better. “Kyungsoo,” he said, “would you let me stay at your place for just one night?”

 

Kyungsoo thought the man was sincerely asking and the last thing he wanted was for Chanyeol to crash at his place. “I shouldn’t have asked.”

 

“Right. That’s definitely the normal reaction. No best friend is kind enough to invite another best friend to stay the night. Unless… They are not best friends.”

 

“No, Chanyeol. Best friends do let best friends crash at their place. It’s just me that doesn’t want you at my place. What are you on about anyways?”

 

Chanyeol was too caught up on his own thoughts, he missed the first three sentences Kyungsoo said. “Nothing. Just some things.” Chanyeol got up from his seat, scooping the files and script needed for the meeting as he continued to mumble to himself. He walked off, passing by a smiling Jongin who greeted him but was ignored before taking a seat on the big table suited in the centre of their office. “I don’t get it. It’s not like they are roommates.”

 

Jongin gasped, holding up his hand over his mouth in a mocking manner. “They are not roommates?”

 

Kyungsoo eyed Jongin like he’s ready to slap the man. “The big table. Now.”

 

During the meeting, Chanyeol could barely keep up with Kyungsoo saying he needs to decide on the radio’s next guests, song requests from listeners that were already stated in their script, etc. It was annoying how Kyungsoo would do these briefs before a broadcast all the time. They’ve already gone through the script so many times, Chanyeol could host the show with his eyes closed.

 

Bored out of his mind, Chanyeol moved his attention towards Jongin. The intern was listening to Kyungsoo intently, watching him with admiration, diligently scribbling notes on his worn out notebook. Jongin’s eyes were shining. Chanyeol swore if he squinted hard enough, he could make out a tail behind Jongin. The intern should just confess to Kyungsoo again already. The man’s affection was so annoyingly obvious at this point, Kyungsoo would be a fool to reject him again.

 

Chanyeol let out an exasperated sigh. Confession… Cat Man and Baekhyun are friends, right? Or are they... Chanyeol wondered if Cat Man had confessed to Baekhyun… If Baekhyun had accepted him. He could have, seeing how he let Cat Man stay at his house last night. Baekhyun’s sweet, angelic smile popped in his mind but it wasn’t for him. It was for Cat Man. Damn it! Chanyeol slammed his fist on the meeting table. Annoyed. Why was he so bothered by this? He had no idea. “Where’s my coffee!?”

 

Kyungsoo sighed, “Jongin, where’s his coffee?”

 

“I uh- I woke up kinda late today…” Jongin fidgeted in his seat.

 

“So?”

 

Kyungsoo sounded annoyed and Jongin didn’t like it when that happened. “So I uh- I know you guys like your coffee in the morning but I umm I didn’t have the time to… buy them...” Jongin hung his head low. He felt like he had let the producer down.. “I’m so sorry. I’ll order it right away!” Jongin quickly collected his stuff but was stopped by Kyungsoo.

 

“You don’t have to.” Kyungsoo said, his head turned towards his radio jockey, his eyes bore into Chanyeol’s. “Chanyeol will go.”

 

“What?”

 

“You weren’t listening to the briefing anyways and it was you who demanded your coffee.” Kyungsoo emphasized more on ‘you’. “You go. Caramel Macchiato for me. With lots of whipped cream. Thanks.” Kyungsoo said, never once did he break his eye contact with Chanyeol.

 

Chanyeol had no intention to do so either. With gritted teeth, he asked “And you Jongin?”

 

“Umm, Choco Frappe, please.” Jongin squeaked.

 

“One Choco Frappe and one Caramel Macchiato coming right up.” Chanyeol stressed as he backed out of the office, refusing to lose the stare off. It was not until he slammed the door shut did he look elsewhere.

 

He huffed and stomped all the way to a cafe, grumbling something petty about Kyungsoo to himself. The bell hanging by the door jingled, alerting the baristas of their incoming customers. Fearing he would unfairly burst out at an employee, Chanyeol focused on the phone in his hand, not sparing even a glance for the barista over the counter. “Americano, Choco Frappe and Caramel Macchiato please. All grande. All cold. Extra whipped cream for the macchiato.”

 

“Is that you, Chanyeol?” The barista called his name.

 

Surprised, Chanyeol looked up and was met with the dazzling smile that had lingered in his mind for days. All his anger and annoyance? Gone. “B-Baekhyun?” Chanyeol couldn’t help but coo at how adorable Baekhyun was. The smile was a killer but the costume had killed him. The barista donned an all white attire - white short-sleeved button down shirt tucked in a white short pants and a cute little top hat fixed on the crown of his head. Chanyeol couldn’t help but stare.

 

Baekhyun could feel his cheeks getting hotter under Chanyeol’s intense stare. Chanyeol probably thinks the costume didn’t suit him. “I-It’s weird, isn’t it? This concept doesn’t s-suit me, does it? I-I had wanted to pick the elf costume but Minseok called dibs on that.”

 

“No no no no. No!” Chanyeol didn’t notice he was shouting. “It’s cute! You look adorable. Being an angel suits you! I mean, you look so much like an angel right now! Very angelic. There are no angels cuter than you. I thought wings were about to grow from your back! It’s cute, yes!” Chanyeol puffed like he had just run a marathon. The man wasn’t aware that his little speech had caused heads to turn and Baekhyun’s heart to flutter.

 

“I uh,” Baekhyun’s cheeks were tinted pink, eyes looking everywhere but at Chanyeol. “I’m actually a snowman... See my little top hat.” Baekhyun meekly tilted his head.

 

Now both of them were blushing.

 

“I-I have never seen you here before.” Baekhyun tried to change the topic.

 

“Jongin is the one who usually buys our coffees so that's probably why.”

 

“Jongin?”

 

“He’s an intern at my work.”

 

Just then, Chanyeol’s phone dinged. His lock screen lit up and a message from Kyungsoo popped up. ‘You have 3 minutes’ was all that was written. Chanyeol cursed under his breath, great timing Kyungsoo. Chanyeol sighed, handing Baekhyun his debit card. “I’d love to stay and chat but duty calls.” Chanyeol swore he saw Baekhyun pouted for a minute there.

 

+

 

Baekhyun had finished his work and was walking home after finally surviving a double shift. The barista was humming harmonious tunes all the way to his apartment, giddily skipping in his walks and a happy smile stretched on his puppy-like face. His accidental meeting with Chanyeol this morning had him smiling all day.

 

Baekhyun was tuning in on Blooming Day, listening to Loey’s soothing voice. Tonight’s line-up of songs are a mix of different genres as the RJ had accepted song requests from listeners. So far, the songs requested had been Baekhyun’s favorites as well. He sighed as he listened to Loey bidding the listeners good night.

 

“There are so many things we can be thankful for. Whether getting a gift from someone, receiving smiles from passersby, or even getting complimented by your special one. Did we say thank you today? The kind words you share, can make a big difference in someone’s life.”

 

A name popped up in Baekhyun’s mind and he couldn’t help but remember what had happened earlier today.

 

“There are no angels cuter than you.”

 

A blush threatened to crawl up his face but the thought of getting that same yellow envelope beat it back. Baekhyun let out a sigh. It was a drawing with the same three stick figure. He had a hunch that those drawings were from Jiyong but the barista wasn’t sure himself. He continued to stare at the drawing that was now in his hand. With his phone in his other hand, he tapped on Kakao Talk app and opened a chat room under Chanyeol’s ID.

 

Me

Is Jiyong home?

 

Baekhyun locked his phone but a reply came soon after.

 

Jiyong’s Chanyeol

Yeah, he’s probably with Jongdae

Why?

 

Me

Nothing

I kinda miss Jiyong

Can I spend time with him?

 

Jiyong’s Chanyeol

Sure, but he’s probably asleep by now

Jongdae is at my house rn

Tell Jongdae he can go

I’m on my way home anyways

 

Me

Okay

Be careful on your way home

 

Jiyong’s Chanyeol

I’ll call you as soon as I get home

 

For a second there, Baekhyun's heart skipped a beat. This feels so domestic, he thought. He could feel himself slowly falling for Chanyeol and he definitely wants to get to know the man more. What are his favorites and least-liked things to do, his habits and all. Baekhyun wants to take Chanyeol on dates and spend more time together and hold his hands and share cuddles with him and kiss-

 

Wait, what?

 

Baekhyun’s cheeks were suddenly beet red and he thought his face was on fire. He felt incredibly awkward for having those thoughts for Chanyeol. The barista wished the floor would eat him up as he attempted to hide his embarrassment behind his slim fingers. “Damn it… How am I supposed to face him later?” He cursed himself. All of a sudden, the door to Chanyeol’s unit opened up, causing the man to jump.

 

“Are you coming in or not?”

 

“You almost gave me a heart attack, I swear to god!” Baekhyun screamed. “How’d you know I was here?”

 

“Chanyeol told me you were coming and I was bored so I waited for you,” Jongdae paused, chuckling, “through the intercom.”

 

“Is Jiyong asleep?” Baekhyun pushed Jongdae to the side, allowing himself into Chanyeol’s apartment.

 

“Yeah, he is. So what’s your relationship with Chanyeol?”

 

“Right off the bat?”
 

“You know I’m not one to beat around the bush. Did your relationship progress after that day?”

 

“I uh… We are hmmm… We are there… You know, somewhere there.” Baekhyun paused, his eyes seemed to be glistening under the light. “Say, Jongdae. Can I ask you about Jiyong? You’re with him most of the day right? Have you ever seen him draw anything, like you know, stick figures or some sort.”

 

Jongdae looked at his best friend in disbelief. “How did you know? The kid always draws this same drawing everyday. Three stick figures and nothing else.” He could now guess why Baekhyun was acting this way. “Wait, is this relationship really about Chanyeol or is this because of the ‘Meet My Family’ corner at the nursery?”

 

“Uhh… Not entirely...?” Baekhyun replied meekly.

 

“You’re not answering me. Are you trying to do what I think you are trying to do?” Jongdae sighed. He knows his best friend all too well for the man to hide anything from him.

 

“Shut up, Jongdae.” Baekhyun almost raised his voice, a little hurt hearing the accusing tone from Jongdae.

 

“There’s a limit in what you can do, Baekhyun. If you’re not serious, you should stop.” Jongdae was firm and absolute in delivering his opinion. The man had seen one too many situations of people trying to help kids like Jiyong only to end up leaving them behind. He knew how painful it was to feel loved one day and to be ignored the next. He was once like that before.

 

“I said shut up Jongdae!”

 

“Baekhyun-ie hyung?” Jiyong walked out of his room, rubbing his sleepy eyes. “Is that you Baekhyun-ie hyung?”

 

“Jiyong, we’re sorry… Did we wake you up?”

 

Jiyong trotted to Baekhyun, climbing onto his lap and settling in the man’s arms. “Was Baekhyun-ie hyung and Teacher Kim fighting? Please don’t fight…”

 

“W-We’re not, Jiyong. We just…”

 

“Teacher Kim and hyung were just playing a game, right Teacher Kim? And now he is about to go home.” Baekhyun looked at Jongdae, his determined eyes as if telling the latter they’ll continue this some other time.

 

“Y-Yeah, Jiyong. We were just playing a game. Teacher is going home now. Baekhyun will stay with you until your Dad gets home, is that okay?”

 

“Okay,” Jiyong climbed down from Baekhyun’s lap and toddled his way to Jongdae. Jongdae bent down to Jiyong, letting the little boy kiss him on the cheek. “Be careful on your way home, Teacher,” he said before making his way back to Baekhyun.

 

“I’m not gonna see you out.”

 

“You don’t need to.” Jongdae picked up his stuff and left.

 

“Finally, that tactless guy is gone.” Baekhyun sighed, hugging the now sleeping Jiyong tighter in his arms. The barista wasn’t mad at his friend for guessing on what he had wished to do but the accusing tone from the latter was just so hurtful and irritating.It felt as if Jongdae was condemning his intention and overlooking his effort to help Jiyong.

 

If he only knew the absence of Jiyong’s family photo in that damn corner, he would have not reacted the way he did. Getting those mystery drawings of stick figures for days which he suspected were from Jiyong, how could he just ignore it?

 

“Jiyong,” he called softly, “did you… did you draw those pictures and give them to hyung?” The barista hummed as he played with the boy’s little strand of hair.

 

Barely opening his eyes, Jiyong groggily replied, “How did hyung know it was from Yong-ie?”

 

Baekhyun held back a sob, “Of course hyung would know. Only Yong-ie could draw those pretty pictures. Thank you, Yong-ie. Hyung loves it.” The barista slowly patted Jiyong’s bum rhythmically. “Jiyong, why did you give it to me? At that time we hadn’t met yet…”

 

No reply. Baekhyun looked over Jiyong's sleeping face and wondered what had happened to this angel’s family. Even so, the boy grew up so nicely because of Chanyeol. The man had done a wonderful job. Baekhyun made a mental note to compliment him later.

 

He wasn’t sure when he had fallen asleep but Baekhyun remembered he dreamt of Chanyeol that night. In his dream, Baekhyun had complimented him, praised him and thanked him for taking care of Jiyong so well. “You’ve done so well, Chanyeol. I am so proud of you,” he said as he patted the man’s head. “It hasn’t been that long since we know each other but I know you have done your best.” Baekhyun wrapped his arms around Chanyeol and kissed the man on his cheek, “A gift for you,” he beamed.

 

+

 

Baekhyun’s eyes fluttered open and he blinked as the morning light streamed through the window - the curtain added a white glow to it - blinded him. He rolled onto his left side and was greeted with a breath-taking view of the beautiful man sleeping beside him. Ah, this must be another dream, he thought to himself as his digits danced around the angel’s face, brushing back his messy bangs, tracing his eyes to the mole on his nose bridge, following down to his philtrum. Baekhyun stopped himself before his touches took him further. Chanyeol’s face scrunched up, ticklish from Baekhyun’s butterfly touches before scooting closer to the man. This feels nice, Baekhyun thought to himself as he drifted back to sleep.

 

Baekhyun opened his eyes again and Chanyeol was gone. The barista froze as his eyes scanned the unfamiliar room. This is not my room. He got up and made his way to the kitchen and saw Chanyeol there with Jiyong, preparing breakfast. The sight of Chanyeol in the kitchen, wearing an oversized t-shirt and a bed head made Baekhyun fall for Chanyeol more than he did before.

 

“Morning, Baekhyun. I’ve made breakfast.” Chanyeol greeted as he laid the dishes down on the counter.

 

“Oh,” he turned around, “good morning Chanyeol. Morning Jiyong.” Wait, that wasn’t a dream? “I’m sorry, Chanyeol. I must have fallen asleep last night.”

 

“It’s okay. I don’t mind. Eat before you go.”

 

“O-Okay…” Baekhyun still had a few more questions in mind. He sat down and took a whiff of the breakfast Chanyeol made, “Smells delicious!” He looked at Jiyong and pulled the little boy to sit on his lap. “Yong-ie let’s eat!”

 

Chanyeol couldn’t help but smile at the both of them. Baekhyun probably wouldn’t remember the stuff he said to him last night but Chanyeol will remember them forever. “Baekhyun, do you want to drop Jiyong off together?”

 

Baekhyun’s heart beat increased after hearing the suggestion from the man. “S-Sure,” he breathed out, his voice slightly trembling from being nervous.

 

After breakfast and a quick change, Baekhyun and Chanyeol made their way to Jiyong’s nursery. The little boy was overjoyed to have both men sending him off to school. His little giggles and smiles filled their entire trip. Baekhyun and Chanyeol couldn’t help but coo at him, playing along by pulling the boy up together by his hands.

 

“Jiyong-ie.” Jongdae called out.

 

“Teacher!” Jiyong replied as he skipped to the nursery teacher. “Good morning!”

 

Jongdae smiled, “You seem to be in a good mood today.”

 

“Of course! Daddy and Hyung are with me today.” Jiyong turned around and gave both Chanyeol and Baekhyun a kiss.

 

“Be good, okay Yong-ie. Listen to the teachers well and be kind to your classmates.”

 

“Okay, Hyung!” Jiyong turned to Chanyeol, a pout formed on his lips. “Daddy, take care of Hyung okay. Make sure to protect him, okay! If not, Yong-ie will be really mad.”

 

“Don’t worry, Jiyong. Baekhyun is in safe hands. Daddy will protect him with everything that I have.” The tall man patted Jiyong’s head as a smile bloomed on his face. Jiyong is definitely a sweetheart. “Jiyong is so kind. Such a sweetheart,” Chanyeol cooed, “give Daddy one more kiss.”

 

Giggling, Jiyong gave Chanyeol another peck on the cheek and soon after he ran inside his classroom.

 

Baekhyun looked over the both of them with hearts in his eyes. When Jiyong ran away, his eyes trailed along lovingly, before he met with Jongdae’s. The barista was ready to fight off Jongdae if he ever said anything remotely hurtful like last night but the latter’s gaze softened and a sad smile decorated his face.

 

“Just don’t get hurt. The three of you,” he said and nothing else.

 

“We won’t.”

 

“What are you guys on about?”

 

Both Jongdae and Baekhyun shrugged, “Nothing,” and went off in opposite ways.

 

Baekhyun and Chanyeol walked for the rest of the way, taking their sweet little time together, making small talks for a little while before they went silent and just let the comfortable silence sink in. They matched their pace well, walking shoulder to shoulder with their hands brushing against one another. If this was a drama, there would be cute music playing in the background and the viewers most definitely grinning from ear to ear.

 

“Baekhyun.” Chanyeol called out, his breath hitched after his eyes met with a pair of angelic ones. “Are you free on the night of Christmas eve?” Chanyeol asked after a while of them just staring at each other.

 

Baekhyun blinked, I am not dreaming right? He is asking me out right now, right? “I uh, I think so…. Yeah I am free.”

 

“Would you like to go out with me for dinner?” Chanyeol was definitely nervous but he needed to make it clear to Baekhyun this invitation was not platonic at all. “And after dinner, we could catch those street performances near Yeouido Han River Park.”

 

Baekhyun thanked the heavens for his quick wittiness in picking up hints. The barista maintained his gaze and said, “I would love that.”

 

“Baekhyun?”

 

Baekhyun recognized the voice. “Oh, Minseok,” he said as he briefly turned around. “Have a good day at work, Chanyeol.”

 

“You too, Baekhyun.” Chanyeol couldn’t contain his happiness. He almost skipped in his step as he made his way to his office. Just then, the man’s phone buzzed and it was a message from Jongin.

 

Jonginnie

It’s just you and me in the office today

Want me to fetch your coffee later?

 

Me

No need

Hey jongin

I need your help

Can you babysit Jiyong

On xmas eve

 

Jonginnie

What do I get?

 

Me

A limited edition

Kyungsoo selfie

 

Jonginnie

If it’s another forehead picture

I don’t want it

 

Me

It’s not

This is a genuine selfie

Wait for it…

In his school uniform

 

Jonginnie

Deal.

 

Thank god for Kyungsoo’s selfie.

 

Jonginnie

A date?

 

Me

…

Maybe…

 

Jonginnie

Throw in kyungsoo’s childhood photo

And I’ll make a model out of you

 

Me

Deal.

 

+

 

After a busy night, both Baekhyun and Minseok finished cleaning up their stations and the whole cafe as there were very few customers left. Baekhyun's enthusiasm in cleaning up the place left Minseok with so many questions because the former was never keen on doing this tedious job. The man was even humming along to the tunes played on Blooming Day and giving reactions to everything Loey said as if they were having a conversation. Minseok was dying to ask his friend why he was in such a good mood but witnessing Baekhyun happy and giddy, dancing around with a mop in his hand halted Minseok from asking. I’ll ask later, he thought, an amused smile stretched on his face as the man joined Baekhyun in his sing along.

 

Both of them prepared to leave for their respective homes and as usual, Minseok would offer Baekhyun a ride home.

 

“I have some other plans.” Baekhyun smiled as the words left his mouth, remembering the other morning when Chanyeol had invited him for dinner. The man was over the moon.

 

“Other plans? You usually don’t have plans for Christmas eve? Wait a minute…” Minseok squinted his eyes playfully as he leaned nearer to Baekhyun. “Looks like you’ve seriously started seeing someone, huh? Who is it? Can’t you introduce me to him?” Minseok began to tease..

 

“I will if you’d stop teasing me.” He could feel his cheeks became hotter by the second. Baekhyun didn’t see the need to hide the truth so without a second thought, he blurted, “I uh- Remember the time you teased me about having a crush? That crush asked me out for dinner… His name is Chanyeol.”

 

“Chanyeol? Why do I feel like I’ve heard of him somewhere…?” Minseok eyebrows furrowed, puzzled, “He was the guy who dropped you off the other morning, right?”

 

“Uh yeah, he was. He is also my neighbour. I think you’ve met him once before too...” Baekhyun peeked at his phone, pushing the power button once to light the screen up. The time showed a little past 10. He tapped on the Kakaotalk app and his last conversation with Chanyeol popped up. They exchanged several messages after that day. The man had promised to pick Baekhyun up around 10. Chanyeol should be here anytime now. I wonder if Jiyong is coming too...

 

“Is that him?” Minseok, who was sitting on his Vespa, pointed to a figure behind Baekhyun. Minseok was one to recognize someone even if they only met once and the man was proud of his skill but tonight, he doubted himself. “He looks different from before though.”

 

A tall man in a long, brown trench coat had just stepped off of the bus and was fast approaching them. As Baekhyun’s eyes met Chanyeol’s, he could feel his heart skip a beat. He is definitely Chanyeol but he looked different. The man had his hair slicked back, revealing the undercut beneath his long bangs and the big, hideous glasses were gone. Chanyeol didn’t wear his usual hoodie and sweatpants, instead the man donned a black turtleneck matched with a pair of black slim fitted jeans - emphasizing his long, slender body. If someone were to see him now, their jaws would have dropped on the ground. That someone was Baekhyun.

 

“Sorry I’m late.” The man halted in his tracks, towering over both of them. He was unaware of the silent awe they have for him as he only had one worry in mind. “Did I make you wait, Baekhyun?”

 

“I uh- uh… I… I uh…” Baekhyun stuttered, still speechless on how Chanyeol looked tonight. His best friend had to pinch his back to get Baekhyun out of the light trance. “You’re here.”

 

Minseok nudged Baekhyun and whispered in his friend’s ear, “Aren’t you going to introduce me?”

 

“Ah, yeah. Chanyeol, this is Minseok. Minseok, this is Chanyeol.”

 

Minseok immediately took Chanyeol’s hands in his, eyes gleaming under the night light. The man truly reminds Chanyeol of a cat. “I can see why Baekhyun likes you!” Minseok blurted out, “but don’t let your guard down. These days, he has been crushing on this one radio dj.”

 

Chanyeol was intrigued, “Radio dj? Which dj?”

 

“Minseok!” Baekhyun tried to warn his friend to shut it but there’s no stopping Minseok when he is excited.

 

“That Loey guy. Was it called Blooming Day? Every night he listens to the man talk and sometimes he would talk back to him, looking like a highschool boy in love.”

 

“Minseok!”

 

“Okay, okay. I won’t say more,” Minseok put up both his hands before leaning back to Chanyeol to whisper, “but I think he likes you more.” Minseok gave his friend a thumbs up and a wink and scurried away on his Vespa.

 

A sweet smile bloomed on Chanyeol’s face as a blush threatened to tint his cheeks pink.

 

“Please ignore him,” the barista laughed nervously. “He’s a tease, always such a tease. W-We should go now. Let’s go.”

 

Soon after, Minseok was forgotten and their focus scattered, giddy and excited they couldn’t even hold a conversation together. Their hearts hammering in their chests, palms sweaty, voice cracking. Chanyeol looked like he had it all together, all composed and calm. Unlike Baekhyun, who would fill every pause with chatter and laugh at everything even when it wasn’t that funny. Dinner was even worse. Baekhyun would fidget in his seat, chugging down his drink and brushing his already tousled hair back.

 

Baekhyun refused to let their first date end in a disaster. He mentally slapped himself to get his head straight. The last course of this date would be his last chance to make up for being a fool to himself.

 

“The night air is so refreshing, right Chanyeol?” What was that Byun Baekhyun?? Do you want to make this date more awkward than it is? Baekhyun lowered his face into his hand, cursing himself for that embarrassing remark.

 

“I hope I didn’t make you uncomfortable with this invitation.” Chanyeol’s gaze downcast as he spoke.

 

Baekhyun felt sorry for the man, “I wasn’t uncomfortable at all! It’s just that,” he paused, playing with the hem of his shirt. “I am really nervous right now. My heart is beating like crazy and my hands are shaking and I can’t think properly.”

 

“Am I making you nervous?” The tall man asked innocently.

 

“Who else is there?” If it weren’t because Baekhyun found the man adorable, he would have smack him.

 

Chanyeol chuckled, “So was Minseok telling the truth earlier?”

 

“So Chanyeol, what do you do for a living?” Baekhyun tried to change the topic. He was self-conscious enough for Chanyeol to start teasing him. He ought to give Minseok an earful after this was over.

 

“I’m actually a writer for a broadcasting station.”

 

“Wow! Really?”

 

“Yeah, and I’m also a radio dj.” Chanyeol smirked, “I go by a different name as radio dj. Guess what it is.”

 

“So like a stage name, right? Wait, let me think.” The barista’s eyebrows furrowed as he tried hard to come up with clever names. Is it Chan Park? Yeol Park? Yeol Chan? Wait… “Are you Loey?! Are you saying you are Loey an-and that Loey is you?!”

 

Chanyeol just nodded, a playful smile plastered on his face. The both of them busting a belly laugh, feeling the situation they were in as funny. The world works in such a mysterious way as it brought wonders to their lives. They couldn’t help but fall for each other and each time was harder than before.

 

“Baekhyun,” the radio jockey hesitated but he continued on confidently, “You probably don’t remember this but your sweet words have given me strength... I am interested in you. I like you. A lot.”

Chanyeol had made his intentions clear. He wants to be with me… And the feelings were mutual. Baekhyun too craved to stay by the man’s side for as long as he could. No more hesitating, no more holding back. The barista took Chanyeol’s hands in his, their gaze met under the moonlight. Chanyeol likes him and Baekhyun likes the man too. “I would love that.”