Everytime I See You (2/3)
☆☆☆
Jongdae wakes up in the morning with excitement and nervousness in his every move. It may be Tuesday, but today is the day Jongdae will finally take the initiative and talk to his non-crush after class.
He has to look cute for this and tells Baekhyun as much when he notices Baekhyun standing in his doorway looking amused.
Jongdae is rummaging through his dresser and closet,trying to find a good enough outfit but also not wanting to be late for class. “This is going to be his first impression of me and I can't look like a loser.”
Baekhyun hums, he can't really tease Jongdae about this seeing as he was doing the same thing last Friday. “Just wear what you usually wear, Dae. Your personality is cute enough and you usually have a good sense of style.”
Jongdae pauses in his hunt to look at Baekhyun in confusion. “Did you just compliment me? Like a genuine nice thing without snark?”
Baekhyun scoffs, shifts to fold his arms across his chest, completely avoids Jongdae’s eyes. “Maybe. Don't get used to it.”
Jongdae chuckles, “Thanks, Baek.”
Jongdae settles on a simple jeans and tee combination. It's comfortable enough and won't look like he's trying too hard.
He makes it to class on time, thankfully. Though, it's practically useless, because he can't focus on anything the professor is saying. He’s glad he picked a seat in the back, less of a chance for him to be called on. He checks his phone, an attempt to distract himself from his own thoughts, and sees a KakaoTalk notification.
[Soo]: So I heard from Baekhyun that you finally grew a pair.
Jongdae swallows the groan threatening to spill out, doesn't want to draw attention to himself.
[Dae]: i’m kicking him out
[Soo]: Do you want emotional support later?
Jongdae frowns.
[Dae]: do you doubt my social skills?
[Soo]: Of course not. I'll see you later, Dae.
Jongdae sends Kyungsoo a few stickers in retaliation, doesn't know whether he's being mocked or cared for. Either way, he’ll just be happy to get this day over with.
His next and last class of the day goes about the same way as the first. Completely distracted, not absorbing anything. Jongdae swears he's going to study extra hard tomorrow to make up for it, but for now he's making his way to the cafe.
The regular barista, Chanyeol, is there today. Tall, lanky, ears that stick out, and a goofy smile almost permanently on his face, Chanyeol greets him as usual. Jongdae catches Chanyeol before he puts in his normal order.
“Hey, Chanyeol, just a cappuccino today.”
Chanyeol looks dumbstruck and looks at the barista next to him who is also looking confused. Jongdae just smiles and Chanyeol nods his head. “Uh, okay. Yeah, sure.” Chanyeol punches in the order and takes Jongdae’s payment. “So any reason for the change?”
Jongdae, cheeks heated, shrugs. “Decided to try something new today.”
He knows it's going to be obvious once he sits down. Tries not to feel embarrassed about it, knowing the baristas will probably gossip. For right now, Sad Cafe Dude’s table is empty and Jongdae slides in the seat that Sad Cafe Dude usually sits in. He figures if he's going to be this bold, might as well go all the way and disrupt the whole routine.
His name is called and Chanyeol gives him the cappuccino with a knowing smile. Jongdae tries his hardest not to blush, needs not to blush, he wants to look confident. He goes back to sitting at the table and looks down at the cup of cappuccino. His whole plan was to sit here and wait for Sad Cafe Dude to come in. Once Sad Cafe Dude comes over to the table, Jongdae will introduce himself, compliment the guy’s choice in drinks, and go from there. It's not a super solid plan, but Jongdae thinks he can wing it.
Taking a sip of the cappuccino, Jongdae’s eyes widen in amazement. The drink is actually really good and he can see why Sad Cafe Dude likes it so much. Jongdae almost melts in the seat, the warm liquid making him feel like a puddle of goo. It's a weird mixture of feelings, because while the drink is almost relaxing, Jongdae is still anxious, excited, wired.
People come and go out of the main entrance, none of them Sad Cafe Dude, and Jongdae continues to watch and wait. His drink is almost halfway gone, his attempt to savour it failed. Glancing at his phone, Jongdae checks the time and can't help but frown. Sad Cafe Dude should've been here about a half hour ago, but Jongdae hasn't seen him at all.
Biting down on his lower lip, Jongdae decides to message Kyungsoo for advice.
[Dae]: Soo, he's not here. what do I do??? he should've been here like half an hour ago (;ω;)
[Soo]: He's a regular, right? Ask one of the baristas if they've seen him.
Jongdae groans, as if ordering the cappuccino and sitting at this table wasn't embarrassing enough.
[Dae]: yeah, but that's super embarrassing
[Soo]: You asked me for advice and I gave it to you. What's more embarrassing, sitting there waiting for someone who already left or asking to make sure he hasn't been there?
[Dae]: Fine… ‾︿‾
Jongdae knows Kyungsoo is right, breathes in deeply to prepare for what he's about to do, and slides out of his seat. Jongdae waits until Chanyeol isn't busy to grab his attention, holding up his hand in some kind of awkward wave.
Chanyeol comes over with his usual goofy smile, an eyebrow raised in question. “What can I do for you, Jongdae?”
Jongdae grimaces because this is not how he imagined his afternoon to be like. He gathers the rest of his courage and tries to ask as nonchalantly as he can. “Hey, did the guy who usually sits at that table come in already?”
Chanyeol peers over his shoulder to look at the table and the cappuccino Jongdae had left behind. Pursing his lips, he took his time to respond. Finally, “Hm, no, I don't think I've seen Minseok at all today. Why?”
Jongdae just nods his head, thanks Chanyeol, not even bothering to answer the guy’s question, because Minseok. Minseok. Minseok. Minseok.
Jongdae finally has a name to put to the face, can finally stop calling him Sad Cafe Dude. He finds some more resolve to stay and wait, determined to introduce himself, excited to get to know Minseok.
Jongdae’s resolve wavers once again when his cup is empty and there is still no Minseok. Chanyeol keeps looking at him thoughtfully and it's, honestly, starting to creep Jongdae out. He fiddles with his cup, turning it this way and that way, not wanting to touch his phone because he's too afraid to see how much time has passed.
It's nearing closing time, Jongdae can tell by the way there's less people and the baristas have started to wipe the machines down. Jongdae gives up, feeling unsettled, he takes his cup back to the counter for a barista to pick up. He leaves the cafe, his shoulders slumped the whole way to his apartment, messaging Kyungsoo the details or lack thereof.
He should be happy right now, he's learned the guy’s name afterall. Kyungsoo tells him as much when he whines in his messages, tells him that maybe Minseok was busy, didn't have time. Kyungsoo is probably right, usually is, but Jongdae can't help but feel uneasy. This routine that’s been going on for the past couple of weeks has been completely disrupted. It's just so unlike Minseok not to show up, as far as Jongdae knows.
Jongdae doesn't even bother with scrounging for dinner when he gets home, just goes to his room and flops down on his bed with a groan. Baekhyun, once again, had messaged him and said not to wait up. Jongdae is glad at least one of them is making some progress, assuming that Jongin is the reason his roommate is missing.
Lazily unbuttoning and wiggling out of his pants, Jongdae climbs under his covers and vows to try again tomorrow.
☆☆☆
He did try tomorrow, and the next day and the next. The same thing that happened on Tuesday happened for the rest of the week and Jongdae is tired. He's not sure what to do. Why, out of the last couple of weeks, Minseok chose this week to be a no-show. Jongdae doesn't blame Minseok, isn't allowed to, because it's Jongdae’s fault for not trying sooner.
He mopes to Kyungsoo through the phone and, for once, Kyungsoo admits he could be wrong, apologizes to Jongdae even though he doesn't need to.
Baekhyun picks up his mood too and vows to make it better. He invites Kyungsoo and Junmyeon over, an attempt to throw a party and make Jongdae happy. Unfortunately, neither of them can come, so Baekhyun shyly asks if it's okay if he invites Jongin. Jongdae doesn't mind, tells him to go ahead even though he's not entirely in the mood to play third wheel.
Jongin makes it better Saturday night, though, because he brings takeout and beer along with his company. Baekhyun practically beams like sunshine when he lets Jongin into the apartment and Jongdae is happy for his friend.
It takes little to no time for them to all pile into the living room, surrounding the coffee table where the takeout is spread out on. They put the TV on a random channel, some cop show is playing, and they make guesses at who the bad guy is.
Jongdae is feeling good for the first time in the last few days. Jongin is funny and can keep up with Baekhyun’s snark, which Jongdae knows Baekhyun absolutely loves. They’re getting along well and Jongdae is feeling all warm and mushy with the aide of beer and food.
“Baek,” Jongdae whines, maybe just a little bit tipsy. “What if Minseok never comes back to the cafe?”
Baekhyun slaps him on the back, a shitty attempt at comforting, “It's okay, Jongdae. If he does come back, you'll know. Just don't worry about it.”
Jongin perks up, leaning forward then. “Did you say Minseok?”
“Yeah,” Jongdae says, wondering why Jongin is all of the sudden interested.
“Kim Minseok?”
Jongdae frowns, “I don't know his family name. Just Minseok. Short like me, black hair, gummy smile, reminds me of a hamster almost. He's really cute.” Jongdae ends his description with a pout.
Jongin is grinning, nodding his head. “Kim Minseok. He's my best friend’s boyfriend’s friend. How do you know him?”
Baekhyun is smirking while Jongdae is temporarily in shock at this new information. “Jongdae has a total crush on him, sees Minseok at his favorite cafe after classes, but never worked up the courage to say hi.”
Jongin’s lips form an ‘o’ and Jongdae is mortified. “Please don't say anything to him. It's embarrassing enough that the baristas now know about it.”
Jongin nods his head, raising his pinkie finger in indication of a promise. “I won't. Why do you think he won't show up at the cafe again?”
Jongdae rests his head on the coffee table, letting the surface cool him down. “He didn't show up at all this week. I was going to finally say hi.”
“Oh, that's strange. Minseok isn't usually one to change up his schedule like that.”
Jongdae can't even find it in himself to feel victorious on calling it. He knew something was up.
“Here, I'll call my best friend and see what's up.” Jongin pulls out his phone and calls.
Jongdae stays put and tries not to seem too eager, too obvious. Jongin talks for a few minutes, bickers a little with whoever is on the other side, before he ends the call.
“So, according to Tao, Minseok kinda just buried himself in school work this week and barely left the apartment.” Jongin sighs.
Jongdae wonders if that means Minseok will come back to the cafe and tries not to get his hopes up.
The subject of Minseok is dropped, even though Jongdae is curious about him. He thinks it's better this way, Jongdae wants to learn about Minseok the right way.
Jongin doesn't leave after all the beer and food is consumed, instead helping Jongdae pick up the trash before Baekhyun drags him into his room with a quick “goodnight” called out.
Jongdae goes to his room, hoping to pass out before he can possibly hear any noises from across the apartment. His last thoughts, before slipping into sleep, are different scenarios of meeting Minseok for the first time.
Sunday felt like molasses and Jongdae has never been so grateful that it's finally Monday. That gratefulness doesn't last long as he stares at the time on his phone every few minutes during class. He knows that watching the time is completely counterproductive, but he can't help the impulse to unlock his phone and look.
Once the teacher dismisses the class, Jongdae is out the door to go do his work requirement hours before his next class. Jongdae is on a work scholarship program, where his tuition is paid for, including a small stipend, as long as he works a certain amount of hours around the university during the semester. Jongdae enjoys it a lot more than just some random minimum wage job. Most of his semesters he stayed in his own department, helping clean instruments or practice rooms. Some semesters, he's helped in the library or the computer room.
This semester he's helping the library out, nice and quiet work. It only takes Jongdae a few minutes to get there, signing in at the front desk before he's shown to a cart of books to reshelve.
It's not exciting work, but it's work Jongdae usually enjoys. Usually. Right now, it's the exact opposite of what Jongdae wants to do. It leaves him with too much quiet, too much alone time, not enough stimulation to keep Jongdae from getting lost in his thoughts. He can't help but feel antsy while he shelves books in the right place. He has six hours until his next class, which feels like an eternity in library assistant time.
When it's finally time for him to leave, he signs out with a whispered goodbye to his current co workers and makes his way to his last class.
This class goes about the same as his first class. He can't sit still, shifting in his seat periodically, checking his phone, waiting for the class to be over. His inattention must have been noticed, because when the professor dismisses the class, he pulls Jongdae to the side and asks if he's okay. Jongdae reassures him, apologizes for his lack of focus, and leaves the class feeling embarrassed and mortified with his own behavior.
The embarrassment is quickly set on the back burner when he leaves the university and heads to the cafe. Nervous, worried, ready for disappointment, Jongdae steels himself for the worst when he enters the cafe.
Minseok is already there and Chanyeol is standing at the cash register, looking at Jongdae expectantly. Jongdae takes in a deep breath, letting it out slowly, before stepping up to the counter.
“What will it be today, Jongdae?”
“Chai latte, please.”
Chanyeol looks confused, if not a little disappointed, but rings Jongdae’s order up anyway. “Back to the usual, I guess?”
Jongdae hands over his payment and nods. “For now, anyway.”
Chanyeol looks even more confused, but doesn't pry, probably doesn't think it's his business. Jongdae steps away from the counter and waits.
Usually he would sit down until his drink was made, but he wants to have his drink with him when he finally talks to Minseok. Jongdae doesn't have a solid excuse as to why. Kyungsoo would probably say that he's using the drink as a crutch or shield in case things get awkward.
When Chanyeol finally comes to the side counter with Jongdae’s drink, Jongdae feels bad for how confused Chanyeol looks. He swears the guy is gonna get a headache just from trying to figure it out. He takes the drink with a quiet thanks and makes his way to Minseok’s table.
Jongdae feels like his heart is going to pound out of his chest and hopes that his smile won't look like he's ten seconds from having an anxiety attack. Minseok doesn't seem to be paying attention, his gaze focused on the screen of his phone.
Jongdae clears his throat before saying, “Do you mind if I sit here?”
Minseok looks up at him and looks as thoroughly confused as Chanyeol did a minute ago. Afterall there's plenty of tables and seats empty, even the table next to this one is unoccupied.
After a few more seconds of silence, Minseok gives him an answer. “Go ahead.”
Jongdae smiles more, sitting down and setting his drink on the table. “Hi, I'm Jongdae.”
“Minseok.” Minseok goes back to his phone, probably an attempt to cut off the conversation.
Jongdae, however, is not going to give up. He's determined to, at least, be friends with Minseok. “So, I don't think you've probably noticed, but I'm also a regular here. I noticed that you always buy cappuccinos, so I tried one last week and I was surprised that it tastes so good.”
“Surprised?” It seems Jongdae has caught Minseok’s attention, though he's not sure if it's positive.
Jongdae chuckles nervously, ‘Yeah, I don't like coffee usually.”
Minseok is staring at him like he's grown three heads and a tail. “You don't like coffee?”
All he can do is nod, it's too late to take back what he said. Minseok obviously heard him clearly. “Yeah, the taste is usually too bitter for me. I like tea more.”
Jongdae takes a sip of his drink, trying to occupy his mouth so that he doesn't slip and say something stupid. This plan to befriend Minseok is clearly not going as smoothly as he had originally wanted it to.
Minseok is also taking a sip of his drink, looking at Jongdae in curiosity. He sets his drink down before Jongdae and hums. “That's fine. Not everyone can like coffee. I personally love it. Some days I wish I could open up a cafe like this and serve coffee for the rest of my life.”
Jongdae sets his drink down too, leaning forward, captivated that Minseok is talking to him like this. “That sounds cool! Why not do that?”
“I'm a poor college student. How am I going to start a cafe with no money?” Minseok deadpans.
“True.” Jongdae laughs. He really should've thought of that, but of course his big mouth is making him look like an idiot.
“So, Jongdae, was it?”
“Yeah.”
“Why are you sitting at my table?” Minseok tilts his head, looking at him curiously. Jongdae thinks he looks like a cat.
“Uh, well, I wanted to tell you how I liked the cappuccino.” Jongdae fiddles with his cup, unable to meet Minseok’s gaze.
“And?”
Jongdae sighs. There's no way he can get out of this without spilling the beans. “Well, I noticed you always look sad when you come in here and I wanted to maybe be your friend?” Jongdae looks at Minseok sheepishly, hoping that it doesn't come off too creepy.
“Ah.” Minseok nods his head in what Jongdae hopes is understanding. He's avoiding Jongdae’s eyes and fiddling with his cup now.
Jongdae is starting to regret this, Minseok’s body language is screaming that he's uncomfortable. “If I'm making you uncomfortable, I'm sorry. I'll leave you alone.”
Jongdae goes to stand up, but Minseok grabs onto his wrist and shakes his head. ‘No, it's not you. I just-my friend and I used to come here a lot and he left so every time I come here, I get a little depressed.” Minseok lets go of his wrist as soon as Jongdae sits back down, leaving a trail of heat behind.
Jongdae feels bad for even bringing it up, though he's relieved that the reason isn't as dramatic as the scenarios Jongdae used to come up with. “I'm sorry for making you talk about it.”
Minseok gives him a small smile. “It's not your fault. I, honestly, should be over it. It's been a few months already, anyway.”
“Oh, you've been a regular here for a long time?”
“Yeah, my apartment is near here, so when I started college a couple of years ago, me and my friend would come here after class.”
Jongdae nods, sipping his tea while absorbing this information. He shouldn't be surprised that Minseok has been a regular for so long. “Do you ever change your order?”
“Eh, not usually. Sometimes during winter I'll get hot chocolate. During the summer an iced Americano.”
Jongdae grins, “That's cool. I'm kind of the same way. I drink Chai usually, but I like it iced when it's hot outside.”
Minseok returns Jongdae’s grin with his own gummy one and Jongdae has to stop himself from melting in his seat. “Chai is pretty good. One of my friends likes it a lot, so I've tried it before.”
Jongdae swears his mouth is going to start hurting from how much he's smiling right now. It's not like he can stop it now. “What’s your major?”
“Business.” Minseok grimaces. “What about you?”
“Music, it's been my passion since I was a kid. So why Business? I actually started out with that major, because of my parents, but switched after two years.” Jongdae grimaces when he remembers the boring subjects with no real room for creativity like music.
Minseok gives him a small smile. “Well, I figured that's the best major if I want to start up my own business.”
Jongdae nods in understanding. “So, once you graduate, are you going to open up your own cafe?”
Minseok shrugs, fiddling with his cup’s handle. “Hopefully, but I'm not expecting it to be that easy.”
Taking a sip of his tea, Jongdae silently admires Minseok’s determination to achieve his dreams. He, also, is soaking up the fact that Minseok is being so open and friendly with him. If Kyungsoo or Baekhyun was here, they would probably have smacked his head for doubting his own abilities to make friends. Both of them have told him repeatedly that his personality is hard to ignore, hard to feel uncomfortable with.
Minseok is drinking his own drink and an odd yet comfortable silence has enveloped them. Jongdae unlocks his phone to send a message in his group chat with Baekhyun and Kyungsoo.
[Dae]: i’m talking to Minseok 〜(^∇ ^〜）
[Soo]: Good.
[Baek]: bring him home!
[Soo]: Why is sex the only thing you ever think about, Baekhyun?
[Baek]: who said anything about sex? :P
Jongdae chuckles quietly and puts his phone down. When he looks up, Minseok is looking at him, clearly amused.
“My friends are being stupid.” Jongdae gestures at his phone, trying to keep the heat of being observed from reaching his cheeks.
Minseok grins. “I get it. My friends can be pretty stupid too.”
Jongdae taps his fingers against the tabletop, trying to think of what else to say to move this conversation forward. “So, what other interests do you have besides coffee?”
Minseok leans forward on his elbows, looking down at the slowly dwindling cappuccino. “Hm, I really like soccer.” Minseok bites down on his lip before grinning again. “Drinking.” Jongdae laughs. “And… exercising. I'm kind of boring.” Minseok chuckles.
Jongdae tries not to think about Minseok exercising, tries not to imagine what he looks like naked. He's pretty sure popping a boner in the cafe is not a good way to go about this befriending thing, so he focuses on the first answer. “Soccer? What team? Do you play or just watch?”
“Barcelona and both! I like to play just as much as I like to watch. I used to play a lot before my friend left.” Minseok’s big gummy smile is back and it's clear to Jongdae how much Minseok likes soccer. “What about you?”
“I don't play soccer, but I like to watch it when it's on. Mostly, my interests lie with music, singing and playing the piano. I like outdoor stuff too, like to try new things like wakeboarding.” Jongdae shrugs, smiling shyly.
Minseok had been listening intently, causing Jongdae to feel a little nervous, but then he's returning Jongdae’s smile. “I bet you're a really good singer, you look like one.”
Jongdae rubs the back of his neck, trying to stop blushing. “Ah, I think I'm pretty good, but there's always room for improvement, you know?”
Minseok dips his head, the tips of his lips lifting. It's the type of smile Jongdae would usually do when he finds something cute and is trying not to laugh. He's kind of hoping it's the same for Minseok. “Of course.”
Their conversation goes on for another twenty minutes, sharing tidbits of information with each other. It's not until Jongdae looks at the time that he realizes that Minseok should be leaving soon. Minseok usually only stays for an hour and that is quickly approaching. Minseok notices what Jongdae is looking at and says a soft “Ah”. Jongdae can't help but feel panic, he's not sure if he can ask for Minseok’s number or maybe for him to stay a little longer. He's reluctant to let the conversation end when it's been going so well.
Minseok beats him to the punch, however. “Hey, I've gotta go. I've got work to get to in half an hour.”
Jongdae swallows down his nerves and nods his head. “Yeah, of course. It was nice talking to you.” He smiles softly at Minseok.
Minseok nods his head too and pulls his phone out of his pocket. “Hey, you wanna exchange numbers? I mean, if you don't mind. I enjoyed talking to you today, it was a nice change from my usual stop here.”
“Yeah, of course!” Jongdae tries not to fumble and drop his phone when he goes to exchange numbers. His excitement feels palpable in the air and he just hopes he's not coming off overly eager.
When Minseok leaves the cafe with a final wave, Jongdae all but collapses on the table. He swears his heart is beating so fast that it's just going to stop and he'll die right here looking like a puddle of mess on the cafe table. He's pretty sure it wouldn’t be fair to Chanyeol and the other baristas to deal with that, so Jongdae closes his eyes and takes in deep breaths. A couple of minutes later and he's starting to feel more grounded, even though his phone feels like it's burning a hole in his pocket.
Jongdae waits a few minutes before leaving, as well. He's practically bouncing down the street to his apartment and he can't wait to tell Baekhyun the good news. Noting Baekhyun’s car in the parking lot, Jongdae bounds up the stairs foregoing the elevator altogether, he has too much energy right now to stand still.
Jongdae busts through the apartment door trilling, “Baekhyun~”. Only to stop in his tracks at the sight in front of him.
Jongdae is almost a hundred and ten percent sure that Jongin was in the middle of giving Baekhyun a blow job on the couch. Jongin, of course, looks absolutely mortified and is trying to discreetly wipe spit and precum off his bruised lips. Baekhyun, however, just gives Jongdae a lazy grin, his hand still entangled in Jongin’s hair.
“Okaaaaay. So, I'm just gonna go walking. Message me when I can come back. Bye!” Jongdae steps back out of the apartment and promptly closes the door.
It's not the first time he's walked in on Baekhyun doing some kind of sexual activity and it most likely won't be the last. Jongdae would just really appreciate some warning, just a “Hey, don't come home for another hour” would suffice.
Jongdae decides to head to the little park nearby. It's late enough that it'll be pretty deserted and no one will give him a second glance. It only takes about five minutes to walk there and Jongdae snags a swing when he arrives. He barely puts any effort in pushing himself, just kind of rocks in it while he looks at his phone.
He wonders if it's too soon to message Minseok or if he should wait until Minseok messages him first. He did approach Minseok first, after all. Either way, this is mostly unknown territory for Jongdae. He's not even sure if Minseok is gay. All Jongdae knows, right now, is the tidbits Minseok told him and the fact that he's super cute and hot.
He messages Kyungsoo instead, hoping Baekhyun doesn't take too long. He'd like to figure out what they're doing for dinner.
[Dae]: baek is getting a bj in the living room, I'm stuck outside (╥_╥)
[Soo]: I did not need to know that, Dae.
[Dae]: i didn't want to be alone in my suffering
[Dae]: so, I got Sad Cafe Dude aka Minseok’s number (*^﹏^*)
[Soo]: I hate you.
[Soo]: And congrats, you finally did it. :)
[Dae]: you were right. I just needed to get a backbone.
[Soo]: Of course I'm right. So what's he like?
[Dae]: dreamy. (っ˘ڡ˘ς) he likes coffee, soccer, and he's really cute but also really hot. he likes to exercise, i can only imagine what his body looks like. he's also a business major and wants to open his own cafe!
[Soo]: Sounds like someone has a crush on him.
[Dae]: shhhhhh.
Jongdae spams Kyungsoo with stickers, knowing it'll piss his best friend off. He doesn't want to admit that he might totally have a huge, embarrassing crush on Minseok. He barely knows him. It's another twenty minutes before Baekhyun finally messages him.
[Baek]: yo, come back. Jongin is buying takeout as an apology
[Dae]: you should be the one buying, you ass. you knew I was coming home soon
[Baek]: Jongin has more money than me and also it's too boring if I'm not living on the edge
[Dae]: you're such a dick. i feel bad for Jongin, he doesn't know what he got himself into
[Baek]: (-‿◦)
Jongdae shakes his head and locks his phone. Jongdae almost can't believe Baekhyun’s shamelessness sometimes. However, he's spent too much time with Baekhyun to really be surprised. He makes his way back to the apartment, in no rush and just enjoying the almost empty streets and dying sunlight. The neighborhood is fairly nice, a lot nicer than other areas that most college students stay in. Baekhyun and him scored in that department. The old tenant of their apartment had just moved out when they had went to see if there were any available apartments in the complex. They started to move in a few days later.
When Jongdae gets inside the apartment, Jongin is gone and Baekhyun is sprawled out on the couch, looking mighty pleased with himself.
“I hope you didn't get any cum on my couch.” Jongdae sits on Baekhyun’s legs, completely disregarding the pained grunt.
Baekhyun smirks at him with his eyes closed.“Jongin swallowed it all.”
Jongdae frowns and smacks his hand down on Baekhyun’s stomach. “Gross, Baek. I didn't need to know that. Keep that stuff to yourself.”
Baekhyun whines, rubbing at his stomach. “I don't know why you're complaining when you’ve been in his spot before.”
Jongdae leans back to put the rest of his bodyweight on the legs under him, pinching Baekhyun’s sensitive inner thigh in the process. “Don't remind me. You shouldn’t be talking about your private sex life like that without your partner's consent. Geez, I thought I taught you better.”
Baekhyun groans, slapping at Jongdae’s leg in an attempt to tap out. “Okay, okay. I'm sorry. I'll stop, just please get off my legs.”
He gladly does, walking to the loveseat and plopping his happy butt down. “So where's Jongin?”
Baekhyun pouts at his legs, rubbing them a little. “He's picking up the food.”
Sure enough two minutes later, Jongin is walking through the door with a bag of food and an embarrassed smile. He’s barely closed the door before he's apologizing. “Sorry, Jongdae. You shouldn't have had to leave your own apartment, because of us.”
Jongdae gets up to help with the food. “It's okay, Jongin. It's not your fault, it's that asshole on the couch who knew better.”
“I can hear you.” Baekhyun mutters.
Jongin and Jongdae share a grin, making their way to the living room to place the food on the coffee table. Jongdae kicks at Baekhyun as he passes by on the way to the kitchen to grab drinks.
He can hear Baekhyun teasing Jongin and getting an earful in return. He can't help but shake his head, they're cute and Jongdae hopes Baekhyun keeps Jongin around. They seem really compatible and Baekhyun hasn't had a steady boyfriend in a while.
Jongdae comes back, with beers in hand, to Jongin with Baekhyun in a headlock. Jongdae laughs at the sight causing Jongin to let go and pat Baekhyun’s head.
“I'm glad Baekhyun has someone that can put him in his place.” Jongdae gives the two their beers with a smirk. Baekhyun sticks out his tongue in retaliation and Jongin giggles.
They get quiet once they start chowing down on the fried chicken. It's obvious they're all starving and conversation isn't nearly as important as stuffing their faces at this point. The juiciness of the chicken has Jongdae and Jongin all but moaning, the spices mixed in are heaven. Jongdae is almost glad he's usually too broke to afford this because he would probably eat it so often it'd be unhealthy.
It's another twenty minutes of them eating and watching TV when Baekhyun looks over at Jongdae with furrowed brows. “Hey, Dae?”
Jongdae has to swallow the chicken in his mouth before he can reply. “Yeah?”
“Was there something you needed to tell me earlier when you first came home?”
Something clicks in Jongdae’s head and he puts his chicken down in favor of picking up his phone,waving it around. “I got Minseok’s number! We talked and he gave me his number!”
Both Jongin and Baekhyun are grinning at him, but it's Baekhyun who says, “Congrats! I knew you had it in you, Dae. See? Worried for nothing.”
Jongdae gladly admits that he worried a bit too much about the whole thing. He's just glad it worked out in the end and hopes to see Minseok tomorrow.
Jongin stays the night again and Jongdae retires early to his room. He definitely does not want another accidental private show to happen. Jongdae hops in the shower, silently thanking the designers of this apartment for giving both rooms their own bathrooms. The hot water spraying down his back feels like it's washing all his recent built up anxiety and he bites back a groan at how good that release of tension feels. Inbetween shampooing his hair and washing it out, he thinks about the conversation he had with Minseok. Can't help but smile as he replays certain interactions during the whole thing, especially when Minseok rewarded him with a big smile. These thoughts run loops through his head for the rest of the shower and continue when he slides into bed with a quiet sigh of contentment.
It's not until Jongdae is checking to make sure his alarms are on that he sees a message.
[Minseok]: It was really nice meeting you today. I hope you can join me again tomorrow?
Jongdae pumps his fist in the air, hollering. His cheeks are starting to hurt with how hard he's smiling down at his phone.
[Dae]: It was nice meeting you too. I'm glad you talked with me. And of course! ヽ(´▽｀)/
[Minseok]: Lol, cute. Goodnight!
[Dae]: Night!
Jongdae flings his arms out with a dreamy sigh. Cute. Minseok called him cute or the way he types cute, Jongdae isn't entirely sure. Either way Minseok said cute in reference to Jongdae and Jongdae is totally not, maybe not, crushing hard. His phone gets another notification and brings him out of his revere. He hoped it was Minseok again, but it's just Baekhyun.
[Baek]: why are you so loud?
[Dae]: payback. i hope it killed your boner (ﾉ´ヮ´)ﾉ
[Baek]: i hate you ‾︿‾
[Dae]: love you too. night!
Jongdae burrows under his blankets after he puts his phone on the charger. He only has a thin sheet and a blanket, but they make a nice, warm cocoon that he loves. After a couple of minute adjustments and a content sigh, Jongdae drops into a peaceful, dreamless sleep.
Jongdae is thrumming with energy the next day, whistling and humming as he goes from class to his library job and then to his last class. Luckily he paid enough attention during his classes that he didn't have a professor pull him aside.
As he's leaving the university, he wonders how many classes Minseok is taking and if he has breaks in between. It would be nice if they could meet up between classes too, whenever Jongdae isn't working. Minseok told him earlier today that he works as a bartender at a club, the same club Baekhyun and Jongdae had went to last time. Jongdae isn't surprised he didn't know, he rarely goes to that club and when he does Baekhyun is usually the one to get the drinks. Jongdae figures it was Minseok’s day off the day he saw him there.
Jongdae gets to the cafe before Minseok, which is usually the case. Chanyeol is at the register again and grinning at him.
“Hey, Jongdae, everything go well yesterday?”
Jongdae knows Chanyeol saw what happened and is pretty sure Chanyeol knows the answer to his own question. “I don't know. Guess you'll have to see.” Jongdae says with a shrug. “I'd like a Chai, please.”
Chanyeol is pouting when he rings up Jongdae’s order and accepts his payment. Jongdae laughs quietly and makes his way to Minseok’s table to wait. He thought about throwing Chanyeol for a loop and sitting somewhere else, but figures Minseok’s comfort is more important than messing with a nosy barista. Minseok always sits at this table and Jongdae doesn't want to disrupt that routine anymore than he has.
Minseok comes in ten minutes later, spotting Jongdae as soon as he walks through the door and giving him a little wave. Jongdae is so happy at this point that he's pretty sure he's emitting sunlight. Minseok joins him after ordering his drink and gives Jongdae a shy smile. “How was your last class? You get out sooner than me.”
Jongdae nods, “Yeah, I usually do. Yesterday I got held back because my professor needed to talk. And it was okay, I need to catch up on my reading, I was a little lost.”
“Ah, I'm in the same boat with my Market Research class.” Minseok frowns and Jongdae tries not to coo at how cute Minseok is.
Minseok’s name is called and he leaves to go get his cappuccino. Jongdae has barely even touched his Chai, too enraptured by Minseok, so he takes a sip or two before Minseok gets back.
Minseok is smiling when he gets back to the table and Jongdae can't help but do the same. It's such a nice change from seeing Minseok sad and Jongdae is glad he's part of, if not the whole, reason for this change.
“So any plans for tonight?” Minseok prompts, blowing on his drink to cool it down before taking a sip.
“Besides study? No.” Jongdae hadn't planned on doing anything this whole week except study, because he was already behind and the semester barely started. “You?”
“Work and study, that's about it.” Minseok sighs heavily.
“Well work must be cool, right? Bartending at a club and all. I figure it must be exciting.” Jongdae is attempting to pick up the mood. He doesn't want Minseok to feel anything but happiness right now.
Minseok shrugs a little. “I don't know. Sometimes it's really shitty, because we have to deal with drunk people who can't walk or even piss in the toilet.” Jongdae snorts which makes Minseok smile a little. “Other times, though, it's cool. You get to hear a lot of stories and see a lot of people be happy. A lot people who can be themselves without worrying about anyone condemning them or treating them like they don't deserve happiness too, you know?”
Jongdae knows all too well how being condemned feels and knows how the club makes him feel like he belongs. Jongdae swallows around a lump in his throat, nodding his head in agreement. “Honestly, that sounds like a pretty interesting job. Way better than shelving books at the library.”
Minseok chuckles and, in turn, Jongdae’s mood brightens. They keep going back and forth in conversation for another thirty minutes before Minseok has to leave for work. Minseok promises to text him later and leaves Jongdae alone in the cafe once again.
Jongdae slumps in his chair, disappointed with how fast time goes by when he's talking with Minseok. He's only really known Minseok for two days now, he shouldn't be feeling so smitten. At least, that's what he keeps telling himself.
Jongdae decides to head out too. His books aren't going to read themselves and his essays aren't going to write themselves either. He just hopes that Baekhyun isn't trying to put on a repeat show at the apartment, because Jongdae would really enjoy some drama-free time tonight.
Luckily, when Jongdae gets home, Baekhyun is already gone. Jongdae grabs himself a water bottle before plopping down on the floor by the coffee table and spreading out his studying materials. He sets to work on his Music Theory notes first, his main problem area at the moment.
Jongdae is so immersed in his studying that he doesn't realize how late it's gotten until Baekhyun walks through the door, yawning.
The contagiousness of the yawn gets to Jongdae and he makes a sound of protest in the middle of his. “God damnit, Baek. I was fine until you came home.”
Baekhyun sniffs, clearly affronted. “And here I was, being considerate and bringing you food.” He lifts up the bag in his hand high enough for Jongdae to see over the couch.
Jongdae’s stomach takes that as its cue to growl and he puts on his best apologetic face once Baekhyun comes around the couch. “Baek~ You know I love you, bestest roommate ever.”
Baekhyun huffs, lifting his chin in mock annoyance, before grinning and dropping the bag of food on the table in front him. “You're right, I am the bestest roommate ever. Also, Jongin paid for it so thank him when you see him next.”
Jongdae snorts. “Jongin is gonna realize how much of a leech you are and leave you in the dust. Also can't you just tell him I said thanks?”
Baekhyun looks offended and sticks out his tongue in defiance, making a move to take away the food. “Not now, I won't! You called me a leech.”
Jongdae wraps his arms around the bag, effectively barring Baekhyun from taking it ,and sticks his own tongue out. “The truth hurts, doesn't it?” Jongdae says as he opens the food container to go ahead and dig in before Baekhyun tries to take it again.
“You're such an ass, Dae.” Baekhyun sighs in exasperation. “Anyway, I'm going to bed. Long day tomorrow.”
“Night and thank you~” Jongdae singsongs as Baekhyun escapes to his room.
Jongdae gorges himself on the greasy food, his stomach thanking and cursing him at the same time. He's sure if his stomach could, it would have quit and vacated Jongdae’s body due to how poorly he treats it. Thankfully he hasn't had that happen yet and he rubs at his stomach in an attempt to placate it.
Checking the time, Jongdae decides he's studied enough today and retires to his room in hopes that he can sleep decently tonight.
His phone goes off with his message tone and he lazily grabs for it.
[Minseok]: Hey, you better not be studying right now. You know studying too late doesn't help at all.
Jongdae smiles at the message and quickly types a reply.
[Dae]: I'm actually going to sleep right now. Don't work too hard! Goodnight~ =￣ω￣=
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