Work Text:
Jimin doesn’t mind the opening shift–not really.
It’s fairly quiet from four to six, the only sounds the steady drip of percolating coffee; the ice machine coming to life; the oven beeping, signaling it’s ready to use. Quiet, calming, predictable–it’s relaxing after a night spent practicing new dance routines or writing term papers. And Jimin is naturally an early-riser, no matter how late he stays up or how much sleep he gets. Even the first wave of customers isn’t enough to put a damper on his mood.
Though he personally doesn’t understand how someone could want a venti Frappuccino at six-thirty in the morning, Jimin actually likes making the drinks, keeping busy as a stream of ten, fifteen people come in. His manager, Jin, comes in at seven to take inventory of their stock, often bringing in homemade snacks or lunch for Jimin; Jimin would honestly consider asking him out, if only his manager didn’t have a seventy-foot tall, accident-prone boyfriend already.
Today is a slow day, only a few customers braving the heavy rain. Those that do come in are ordering hot teas and cocoa, with snacks like coffee cake and breakfast sandwiches; humming as he takes his fifth order for a caramel macchiato today, Jimin pouts as he tries to squeeze the last bits of caramel from the bottle.
“Shit,” he murmurs, brows furrowing as he looks around the counter for another tube of caramel; not finding any, he turns towards the customer, a small smile on his face.
“Give me just a minute–have to grab some more caramel.”
Steeling himself, Jimin turns around, looking up at the sandwich board cabinets. Lifting the bottom, he tries to see if Jin or Jungkook had placed a tube on the lowest shelf. Not finding one, he cranes his neck to see if there’s one on the top; sighing in frustration, he checks the next cabinet, pursing his lips when he sees one pushed towards the back. Huffing in preparation, he jumps to grab it, fingers brushing the edge of it slightly. He jumps again, small fingers snagging the corner of the tube. Letting out a cheer, he pulls it from the cabinet, holding it above his head in triumph. The customer at the counter claps for him, jolting Jimin back to himself; grinning in embarrassment, he proceeds to grab a new squeeze bottle for the caramel, pouring it in quickly so he can finish the drink.
“Sorry about the wait, here you are,” he says, handing the drink off.
The young woman gives him a small ‘thanks’ and a smile, settling into one of the armchairs near the windows. Sighing, Jimin starts to clean the counter, pouting as Jin comes in moments later.
“If only you were a minute or two early,” he says, crossing his arms.
Jin gives him a questioning smile, pulling his raincoat off and exchanging it for an apron. Pouting harder, Jimin points towards the cabinets, foot stomping slightly.
“You and Kookie are always putting stuff on the top shelf!”
Laughing, Jin ruffles Jimin’s hair, easily opening the cabinets to grab a box of cup sleeves; Jimin shoves at him gently, stomping away angrily.
“Sorry, Jimin-ah. I’ll try to be better about it, but you know space is limited.”
Sighing, Jimin nods, smiling after a moment.
“It’s okay, hyung. I get it.”
Jimin is scheduled to open again, the weather just as bad as the day before.
Everything starts out the same, Jimin yawning slightly as he unlocks the front door. He flicks on the first set of lights, illuminating the bar and machinery while the seating area is still dimmed. He shuffles towards the counter, lifting the flip-top door to get to the cash register. He sets about prepping the register, turning towards the brewing station to get the first pots of coffee going when he bumps into something.
At first, it doesn’t register what he’s looking at.
But then.
It’s a two-step stool, clearly meant for children with its shape and design. However, unlike the typical loud and bright paint jobs done on children’s furniture, the images painted on the wooden surface are delicate and soft. The actual steps are painted pale yellow, the sides natural and free of paint. There are small flowers clustered at the corners of the steps, white and pink. Small leaves and vines are painted trailing from the clusters, cute little bees painted alongside them. And in the center of the top step is his name, painted in a crisp rouge color, a few small hearts surrounding it.
It’s beautiful and incredibly thoughtful, and Jimin is as infatuated with it as he is angry. He knows he’s short–he’s well aware, especially when he works with Jin and Jungkook at the same time. And he’s grateful, really, that Jin or someone else was kind enough to get it for him, but really. A personalized step stool. The nerve. Stewing, Jimin goes about his morning routine, pout loud and massive. He gently moves it towards the corner, out of the way; though he’s annoyed about it, he wouldn’t want to damage it or stain it so soon after getting it. Just as with the day before, there aren’t many customers; a few of the regulars, maybe one or two new ones. Wiping down the display case, Jimin almost doesn’t notice the customer that comes to stand next to him.
“Excuse me.”
The voice is deep and rich, Jimin yelping as he’s started. The customer chuckles, stepping back a bit as Jimin turns around. Oh. It’s him, venti hot chocolate with extra whip cream and mocha drizzle. He comes in almost every day, sitting in the corner armchair with a different textbook in his lap. He’s always so nice and kind, a smile almost always on his face; Jimin really likes him, if he’s being honest. Certainly one of the more enjoyable customers, and cute, too.
“Ah, I’m sorry,” he says, grinning sheepishly, “I didn’t mean to startle you.”
“It’s alright,” Jimin smiles, irritation about the step stool momentarily forgotten, “was there something I could do for you, Taehyung-ssi?”
Taehyung bites his lip, a shy smile taking over his face. Jimin coos internally, tips of his ears turning pink as he stares at the taller man.
“Well, I was just wondering if I could get another hot chocolate?”
Nodding quickly, Jimin hurries around the counter, pulling a fresh cup towards him. He rings up the order, smiling gently as Taehyung hands him a few thousand won. Taehyung goes to wait at the other end of the counter, watching as Jimin goes about making his drink.
“How have you been?” he asks, expression curious.
Jimin smiles, making the drink a tad slower just to prolong the conversation.
“Pretty good, actually! I got the results back from my last exam, and I did pretty well.”
“That’s great, Jimin-ssi,” Taehyung grins, face lighting up.
Jimin can feel his cheeks heating up, a small smile tugging at his lips. He pipes the whip cream on the drink, drizzling it with chocolate sauce. Putting the lid on as carefully as possible, Jimin’s smile growing shyer when their fingertips brush.
“Thank you!” Taehyung chirps, waving as he goes back to his seat.
Jimin watches him fondly as Taehyung hurries back to his seat, pulling out a pair of headphones and slipping them over his ears. Grinning to himself, Jimin finishes cleaning behind the counter as Jungkook comes in.
“Morning, hyung,” Jungkook yawns, scratching at his head.
Jimin nods at him, running the rinse cycle for the espresso machine; Jungkook joins him behind the counter, slowly pulling his apron ties around his front to slip inside his pockets. Leaning towards his dongsaeng, Jimin fixes his apron knot for him, letting out a put-upon sigh.
“Really, Kook, don’t you know how to knot a knot?” he mutters, whacking him on the arm.
“Sorry, sorry,” Jungkook grins, dodging out of the way.
“Oh, by the way,” Jimin says, gesturing towards the step stool, “do you know who left that for me?”
Jungkook goes over to inspect the step stool, lifting it to look at it from every angle. Jimin can feel the curious glances of their customers, the back of his neck heating up slightly as Jungkook lifts it up to face-level, inspecting it in the light. Lips thinning, Jimin walks overs to join him, thumb rubbing over a small cluster of flowers.
“Any idea?” he asks, a small smile on his face as he takes in the painting again.
Jungkook hums, placing it down after a moment. He shrugs, moving towards the espresso machine to make himself a drink.
“Nope. Maybe Jin-hyung? Seems like his style.”
Jimin hums, opting to ask the man once he comes in. Jin does come in, eventually, arm-in-arm with his boyfriend, Namjoon. Disconnecting their arms, Jin murmurs something to Namjoon before walking up to the counter, leaning against it to grin at his employees. Jungkook raises an eyebrow at him from behind the espresso machine, Jimin crossing his arms.
“Good morning,” Jin practically sings, grin wide and obnoxious, “how are my favorite sons?”
“Hyung,” Jimin deadpans, biting his lips to keep from smiling.
Sighing dramatically, Jin straightens, expression brightening when he catches sight of the step stool.
“Oh, good! You found your present!”
“So you left it!” Jimin exclaims, pout reappearing.
Jin laughs, shaking his head.
“I wish I did, but no–Yoongi texted me, saying someone left it for you last night.”
Jungkook snorts, moving around Jimin to grab a cup, a smirk on his face. Glancing between the two in suspicion, Jimin can feel his eye twitching.
“Wait, wait, wait. Do you know? Did you lie to me earlier, Jungkookie?”
Smirk growing, Jungkook’s eyes flit from Jimin to the windows and back, “Sorry, hyung.”
Jin laughs as Jimin smacks Jungkook’s arm, whining to both of them.
“Tell me who! It’s not fair–I just want to know so I can thank them and also yell at them a little bit.”
Shaking his head, Jin leans forward to gently pinch Jimin’s nose, eyes twinkling with mischief.
“They’ll let you know eventually, yeah? Just be patient, Jimin-ah. Maybe they’re shy.”
Pouting, Jimin practically stomps away as both Jin and Jungkook laugh at him. Pulling his apron over his head, Jimin abandons the counter to go towards Namjoon, the older man smiling softly at him. Jimin apologizes as he knocks into Taheyung’s foot, the man seated at the table in front of Namjoon’s; Taehyung waves him off, a small smile on his face.
“Hey there, Jimin-ah. Rough day?”
Jimin sighs as he slumps into the chair opposite Namjoon, a large frown on his face.
“Jin-hyung and Kookie are being mean, hyung.”
Grinning, Namjoon leans forward to ruffle Jimin’s hair, despite the younger’s protests.
“It’s about the step stool, right? Jin-hyung told me about it last night. It’s sweet, isn’t it?”
“How exactly is it sweet, hyung? Someone’s making fun of me for being short!”
Namjoon hums, crossing his leg over his lap in thought. Jimin glances back towards the counter, sticking his tongue out at Jungkook as the younger makes a face at him.
“I don’t think that was their intention,” Namjoon states softly, expression patient.
Jimin remains silent, petulant.
“Really, Jimin-ah. I think whoever got it for you meant it with good intentions. It’s not exactly a secret that you or Yoongi-hyung are the shortest employees here,” Namjoon states, mentioning one of the café’s closers, “they probably wanted to make your life easier, you know?”
Jimin’s frown lessens, arms relaxing slightly.
“…I guess it does help,” Jimin admits, glancing towards the floor.
Namjoon nods, smiling encouragingly at his friend, “And they probably decorated it themselves. Jin showed me a picture of it last night. It must have taken them a while, which means they put a lot of effort into it, right?”
Jimin nods timidly, sucking in his lips.
“So I don’t think it was meant maliciously. I think someone wanted to show you how much they appreciate you,” Namjoon finishes, leaning back to allow Jin to settle in his lap.
Jimin scrunches his face up at the two, expression smoothing out after a moment as he thinks over Namjoon’s words. Jin presses a small kiss to Namjoon’s temple, whispering something in his ear. Namjoon looks up at him sharply, raising an eyebrow; Jin smirks, nodding minutely.
“…Yeah, okay. You’re right, hyung. I just wish I could thank them.”
Jin, looking at something over Namjoon’s shoulder, turns to smile softly at Jimin.
“Patience, Jimin-ah. They’ll let you know when they’re ready.”
Over the course of two weeks, Jimin finds small paintings waiting for him every time he opens the café. They’re addressed to him, name written in the same flowing script as the step stool, with no indication of who left them. They’re always of flowers, delicate and beautiful and familiar to Jimin. He’s no florist, but he can tell a daisy from a sunflower, thank you. He always finds them propped up against the register, tucked away from any prying customer eyes. Jimin ends up texting Yoongi after the second one, not wholly convinced he isn’t the one behind them; when he gets a barf emoji in response, he summarily crosses Yoongi off the list of potential gift-givers.
Jungkook is also off the table, the boy a blushy, stuttery mess whenever Jimin’s dancing sunbae, Hoseok, pops in after practice–which also crosses him off, too, since Hoseok is not much better. Momentarily stumped, Jimin opts to just admire the paintings whenever he receives them, face warm and heart thumping erratically. Most of them he brings home to his apartment, framing them and decorating the space. The others, he gets Jin to hang in the café, decorating the walls instead of the generic art Jin had up originally. He’s only mildly insulted when Jimin says that. Mildly.
Curious about the flower choices, Jimin ends up googling flower meanings one day during his break. Yellow acacia–secret love; pink camellia–longing; coreopsis arkansa–love at first sight; daisy–innocence; hibiscus–delicate beauty; yellow jasmine–grace and elegance; ranunculus–charm and attractiveness; dwarf sunflower–adoration. Each meaning is like a punch to Jimin’s heart, squeezing it tighter and tighter; he ends up writing little cards with the flowers’ meanings and names, placing them under the paintings–both in the café and back at his apartment. A few of the more regular customers come up to congratulate him, his cheeks in a near constant state of pink. Even Taehyung comes up to congratulate him, a wide smile on his face any time he catches sight of them; Jimin ducks his head each time, smile pleased and gentle.
Jin and Jungkook live to tease him, always poking and prodding once he’s looked into the flower meanings to see what his admirer said this time. Jungkook in particular likes to antagonize him, smirking whenever he sees Jimin staring at one with a dreamy expression; he’ll often loudly start complaining about Jimin daydreaming, laughing as the older man whacks him on the shoulder or back or head.
“I just wish I knew who it was,” Jimin complains for the umpteenth time a week later, stretching himself over the counter.
Jungkook glances up at him, smirk on his face; he’s changing the banner that hangs in front of the register, Jimin supposedly helping him keep it level. Taping the sides, Jungkook quickly stands up, eyes scanning the café for something.
“Ah! Taehyung-hyung!” he calls, beckoning over the older man.
Jimin straightens up slightly, patting his shirt down as the other man slowly approaches the counter, apprehension obvious on his face.
“Jungkook-ah, what’s up?” he says, glancing between the two.
Jimin gives him a small smile, hoping to calm him down. It seems to work, as Taehyung gives him a boxy smile in return, eyes crinkling cutely at the corners. Jungkook is downright giggly, eyes darting between the two at record speed.
“Hyung, d’you think this is level?” he asks, turning to Taehyung expectantly.
Taehyung blinks at the youngest, staring at him incredulously; Jimin, not fazed by Jungkook’s question, slowly starts to wipe the counter. Jungkook looks at Taehung expectantly, gaze piercing. Taehyung swallows after a moment, eyes darting to Jimin for a split second.
“…Yes?”
Grinning in satisfaction, Jungkook says, “Perfect. Excellent. Just what I wanted.”
“What the fuck is wrong with you?” Jimin says, tone flat.
Jungkook rolls his eyes, smirking as he pulls his apron off, phone in hand. The two older men simply watch as he makes his way towards the manager’s office, his expression downright gleeful as he starts texting someone.
“…Is he okay?” Taehyung asks, confusion heavy in his voice.
Jimin just stares after him, expression blank; after a moment he shrugs.
“I don’t know, honestly. Maybe he’s just excited since Hoseok-hyung asked him out yesterday?”
Taehyung smiles at that, posture relaxing slightly. The two end up standing there, smiling at each other in silence, startling when they hear a loud bang from the manager’s office. Jimin holds up a finger, scurrying over to the door; opening it a crack, he stares unimpressed at Jungkook and Jin, the two tangled together on the floor.
“Really? You two are fighting, again?” Jimin says voice loud enough to carry back towards the counter.
Jimin can feel his cheeks flushing as Taehyung laughs, eyes staying pointedly on the two men in front of him. Jin grins at him sheepishly, arm still locked tight around Jungkook’s head. The younger barista has his legs wrapped around Jin’s; his hand gripping Jin’s hair. A warmth materializes at Jimin’s back, causing him to stiffen in surprise. A hand settles on his upper back, hot and gentle and very large.
“What are you doing?” Taehyung asks, voice cheerful as he peers around Jimin to stare into the room.
Jimin stands stock-still, hands clenched in his apron as he stares, unseeing, into the room. Jin and Jungkook share a glance, slowly detangling their limbs as they stand up. They’re wearing matching grins, something that would be disturbing if Jimin saw it; as it is, he’s currently trying not to breathe, lungs burning as Taehyung practically plasters his front to Jimin’s back.
“Just having a friendly conversation,” Jin says, slapping Jungkook hard on the back, “what’s wrestling between brothers?”
Taehyung perks up at this, moving away from Jimin slightly. It’s enough for him to let out a shuddering breath, body slumping slightly.
“I always forget you guys are related. Kook acts so different than you, Jin-hyung.”
Jungkook grins at him, holding up a finger heart mockingly. Brain catching up with the past five minutes, Jimin turns to stare at Taehyung, scandalized.
“Wait, you’re friends with Jungkook? This little shithead who lives to make my life miserable?”
Taehyung grins sheepishly, nodding. Jungkook laughs, pushing past Jimin to sling an arm around Taehyung’s shoulders, a wide smile on his face.
“Yeah, hyung! Taehyung–hyung and I are in a lot of the same classes at school. He’s an art major, like me.”
Taehyung’s smile is strained, his eyes widening slightly as he freezes against Jungkook’s side. Jin is looking between all of them in anticipation, disappointment flooding his face as he murmurs something about manning the counter, brushing past the three young men. Jimin is looking between the two, eyes wide in surprise.
“Taehyung-ssi, I didn’t know that!”
Taehyung gives an awkward smile, elbowing Jungkook sharply in the side. The barista wheezes, grin strained as he clutches his stomach. Jimin fiddles with his apron’s pockets, suddenly at a loss.
“I paint,” Taehyung blurts out, eyes immediately slamming shut as he says it, “I mean, my major’s fashion, but I do it. In my spare time.”
“That’s so cool,” Jimin says, smile small, “is that why you’re always looking at the paintings?”
“P-paintings?” Taehyung gulps, face flushing pink.
Jimin nods, gesturing towards the nearest wall.
“Yeah, I always see you looking at my paintings, smiling. Do you like them?”
A smile starts to appear on Taehyung’s face as Jimin talks, cheeks steadily growing pinker. Neither pay much attention as Jungkook slips away, shit-eating grin on his face.
“Ah, yeah,” he says, rubbing the back of his head, “something like that, Jimin-ssi.”
Pouting suddenly, Jimin gently shoves at Taehyung’s shoulder.
“Hey, if you’re friends with Kookie, you’re friends with me.”
Taehyung smiles, slow and small. Jimin can feel his breath catch in his throat, sweat beading the back of his neck slightly.
“Okay, Jimin-ah?”
Nodding, Jimin rocks back on his heels, hands in his pockets. Taehyung glances away after a moment, expression pleased.
“Yah, Jiminie! I could use your help over here!”
Startled, Jimin bows in apology to Taehyung, face burning as he scurries towards the counter. Taehyung follows behind him, making a beeline for his things. He offers the café workers a small wave before hurrying out the door, shoulders hunched. Jimin frowns, eyebrows drawing together.
“Jimin-hyung? You okay?”
Jimin turns to face the others, nodding after a moment.
“C’mon, hyung! We haven’t gone out in ages!”
Jimin shakes his head, arms crossed as he listens to Jungkook’s pleading. The younger barista has been pestering him to go dancing with him and Hoseok for the past hour, pulling out his doe eyes and pouty mouth. Lips pursed, Jimin tries to stay strong.
“Kook, I have to open tomorrow. And I have that dance routine review on Thursday–I have to practice, I don’t have time to go out.”
Scoffing, Jungkook crosses his arms, glaring at his coworker. Jimin glares back, the two staring intently at each other even as a customer lines up. A loud throat clearing breaks the contest, both baristas varying degrees of embarrassed. Yoongi is standing in front of them, swathed in all black with a bag slung over his shoulder.
“God, the fuckin’ service here,” he complains, arms crossed as he stares at them, unimpressed.
Grinning sheepishly, Jimin replies, “Sorry, hyung. What do you want?”
Yoongi sniffs, looking around for a second before dropping the act, collapsing against the counter with a groan.
“Death. I just pulled two all-nighters, have mercy on me, Jimin-ah.”
Snickering, Jungkook starts to prep a drink for their hyung while Jimin coos at him, running a gentle hand through his hair. Yoongi groans, forehead thumping against the counter.
“I hate college,” he moans, lifting his head to stare up at Jimin, “remind me again why the fuck I’m doing this?”
“So you can get hired at a music company, produce the next bit hit, and get rich?”
Groaning in agreement, Yoongi stands up, rubbing his hands across his face after a few moments. Jungkook hands him his drink, leaning a hip against the counter as he and Jimin stare at their hyung.
“How many shots?” Yoongi asks, eyes unfocused.
“Five,” Jungkook says immediately, licking his lips.
Nodding, Yoongi looks up at both of them, eyes drooping slightly.
“If I wasn’t best friends with your brother, I’d kiss you, Jungkook-ah.”
Jungkook clutches his heart, face an expression of mock-hurt. Jimin snorts, crossing his arms at the display. Yoongi turns to face him, shaking his head slightly.
“Don’t think you’re off the hook, Park. I know you’re single right now. Pucker up.”
Laughing, Jimin leans forward, fake gagging as Yoongi presses a wet, smacking kiss to his forehead. Wiping a hand across his forehead, Jimin shakes his head as Yoongi gives them a peace sign, walking towards the door.
“Later, losers.”
“See you tonight for your shift, hyung!” Jungkook calls, grinning as his remark makes Yoongi stumble.
“He forgot he was scheduled, didn’t he,” Jimin says gleefully, turning to look at Jungkook.
Snorting, Jungkook nods, expression smoothing out as someone else approaches the counter. Jimin turns, breath catching in his throat as he takes in the customer. It’s Taehyung, though his usual smile is gone. Instead, there’s a peculiar expression on his face, gaze sharp and intense. Jungkook gives him a cheeky smile, arm suddenly winding around Jimin’s shoulders.
“Hey, hyung! Here for another hot chocolate?”
Taehyung’s frown deepens, head turning to glance towards the café doors before he looks back at the baristas.
“I’ll take a venti hot Americano, no milk.”
Jimin, shocked, can only stare at Taehyung as Jungkook rings him up, smug grin on his face.
“Taehyung-ah? Are you okay?”
Taehyung’s eyes snap up to Jimin’s, his gaze heavy; it’s unlike anything Jimin’s ever experienced from the man, and it startles him. He feels like Taehyng is staring into his soul, reading his deepest, darkest, most intimate secrets and thoughts.
“…Yeah, Jimin-ah. I’m fine.”
Jungkook hands the drink over, glancing between the two delightedly. He reaches across the counter to tap the drink, watching as Taehyung snatches it up and starts to down it. Jimin can feel his knees go slightly weak as Taehyung’s stare intensifies, eyes never straying from his; it’s a strange, weird energy between them, and Jimin can’t look away.
“You know,” Jungkook says, tone up to no good, “Yoongi-hyung and Jimin used to date.”
Jimin shrieks, slapping at Jungkook as Taehyung chokes on his drink. Face a dark red, Jimin continues to hit Jungkook even as he laughs, handing a fistful of napkins to coughing, sputtering Taehyung.
“You absolute fuck! Why would you say that?!” Jimin yells, punching Jungkook in the chest.
“What? You used to have the biggest crush–”
“Yeah, for like the first week I worked here!” Jimin yells, “I don’t like him like that anymore!”
Taehyung coughs, glaring at Jungkook as the younger barista continues to laugh. Reaching across the counter, he flicks Jungkook on the forehead, scowling. Jimin turns to Taehyung, cheeks bright red.
“I’m so sorry, are you okay, Taehyung-ah?” Jimin says, voice soft with worry.
Grimacing, Taehyung lets out a long exhale, hand rubbing his throat, “All good.”
Smacking Jungkook again, Jimin hurries to grab a cup of ice water, passing it over to Taehyung as he continues to rub his throat. The café is deadly silent, the other patrons having watched the startling display; a few even seem to have recorded it on their phones, whispers starting. The three lapse into an awkward, uncomfortable silence, the volume of the café returning to normal. Jimin can see the customers still glancing at them, obviously talking about the incident; mortified, he pushes past Jungkook, ripping his apron off. Noticing Jimin’s genuine embarrassment, Jungkook grimaces in apology, his eyes growing wide.
“H-hey, hyung, wait, I’m sorry–”
“Fuck you, Jungkook,” Jimin bites out, eyes watery, “and leave me the fuck alone.”
Storming towards the manager’s room for his things, Jimin grabs his gym bag, hurrying out the front door. He lets it slam behind him, tears burning in his eyes.
Jimin sighs to himself, staring at his reflection in the mirror; he’s covered in sweat, chest heaving after his latest run-through. The music for his routine is still pulsing in the empty room, fast and pounding through his body. Glancing away, he walks towards the speaker, turning the music off; the silence is deafening, oppressing and physically painful. The practice room is dim, the main lights turned off due to the late hour. Slumping against the far wall, Jimin draws his knees to his chest, head throbbing with a migraine that’s lingered since the Incident™. A gentle knocking startles him, head whipping up to look at the door. Jungkook is standing there, shifting on his feet anxiously.
“Hyung, can…can I come in?”
Nodding, Jimin stretches his legs out, hands in his lap. Jungkook settles down next to him, keeping a foot or so of distance between them; he looks at Jungkook through the mirrors across from them, lips pursed.
“Are…do you hate at me?”
“God, Kookie, no,” Jimin whispers, not trusting himself to speak louder without his voice breaking.
Jungkook all but collapses in relief, hand latching onto Jimin’s arm; he swipes his other hand across his eyes, sniffling.
“I’m so glad, I’m so glad. I never meant to hurt you, hyung,” he says, voice small and broken.
Jimin yanks his closer, arms wrapping around his dongsaeng; Jungkook clings to him, tears soaking into the collar of Jimin’s shirt. He doesn’t seem to care about how sweaty Jimin is, digging his face farther into the other’s neck.
“I’m so sorry, Kook-ah. It’s just…it really bothered me, you joking about that–especially at work, in front of customers,” Jungkook nods, a low whine in his throat, “but I nevershould have said what I did. I’m supposed to be your hyung, and I hurt you instead.”
Jungkook lets out a loud sniffle, shaking his head. The two fall quiet, the occasional hiccup or sniff echoing into the room. Ten minutes pass, Jimin rubbing a comforting hand across Jungkook’s back before the younger leans away, eyes red-rimmed and damp. Jimin coos at him softly, reaching towards his bag for a water bottle. Rubbing an arm across his face, Jungkook lets out a loud huff, patting his cheeks roughly before accepting the water.
“Was it bad, after I left?” Jimin asks, timid.
Shaking his head, Jungkook swallows before answering, “You mean work? No, it was really dead. But I was kind of a mess, since I was upset you left. Taehyung-hyung was kind of upset, too, but I think it was because I made you cry.”
Warmth fills Jimin at that, lips quirking up at the corners, “He’s a sweetheart.”
“Your sweetheart,” Jungkook jokes, hands clamping over his mouth a second later.
Jimin can feel his cheeks warming, smile freezing on his face.
“What.”
Jungkook clambers to his feet, a fake laugh spilling from his mouth, “Haha, look at the time, gotta go!”
“Wait, no, come back, Kookie!”
Jungkook runs towards the door, squawking as Jimin lunges for his legs. They crash to the floor, Jimin yelping as Jungkook tries to elbow him away; letting out a loud cry of indignation, Jungkook licks at Jimin’s arm, grinning when he scurries away with a yelp.
“Yah, Kookie! Come back or I’ll tell Hobi-hyung about the time you teared up looking at his ass!”
Letting out a scandalized gasp, Jungkook narrows his eyes.
“You wouldn’t dare.”
Crossing his arms, Jimin nods to the floor beside him. Grumbling, Jungkook settles down next to him. Glaring at the smug look on Jimin’s face, Jungkook pouts, kicking at the other’s leg. Jimin smirks, kicking back.
“Please, Jungkook, what did you mean,” he ends up saying, expression softening with hope.
Jungkook sighs, rubbing a hand through his hair, “Well, it was supposed to be a secret, but…”
Heart pounding in his chest, Jimin watches as Jungkook comes to a decision, resolve flitting across his face.
“He’s the one who made you the stool and the paintings,” he admits, eyes serious, “he talks about you all the time when we hang out. And he’s always watching you at the café with this dumb look on his face. He really likes you, hyung, like–so much.”
Jimin looks down at the floor, a slow smile spreading across his face. Jungkook peeks at him, giggling as Jimin covers his face with his hands.
“I like him too,” Jimin murmurs.
Jungkook grins.
“You should come out with us sometime,” Jungkook says quietly, nudging the other, “him, me, and Hobi-hyung go out all the time, since someone is always too busy with work and dancing.”
To say he’s nervous is an understatement.
It’s a few days later, his dance review over and done and no longer consuming all his free time; he finally agrees to going out with Jungkook and Hoseok, agreeing only after he hears Taehyung’s also going. He spends almost an hour trying to pick out the right outfit, finally settling on skinny jeans, t-shirt, and flannel over-shirt. Jungkook comes over halfway through, lying on his bed as he texts Hoseok, infatuated smile on his face. If he wasn’t so preoccupied, Jimin might have made fun of him for it. Placing his phone face down, Jungkook links his hands together over his stomach, judgmental expression on his face.
“Could you hurry up? We’re supposed to meet my boyfriend in twenty minutes.”
Shooting a glare at the younger, Jimin snatches up his phone and keys, shoving them in his pocket. Clapping his hands, Jungkook slides off the bed; he slings an arm around Jimin’s shoulders, steering him out of the apartment. They make their way downtown, Hoseok joining them two streets over. Jimin gags slightly as the two boyfriends greet each other, grinning once he hears Hoseok’s laughter.
“I’m so happy you’re coming with us, Jimin-ah!” Hoseok screeches, arms wrapping around both men.
Slinging an arm around him in return, Jimin gives the older man a small smile; he’s incredibly nervous, knowing that Taehyung will be there too. A group of college students pass by them, a few turning to look back at the three, interested; Jungkook leans into Hoseok’s side, hand drifting down to hold his hip possessively as he glares. Rolling his eyes, Jimin pulls the two towards the club entrance, Hoseok paying and giving a small nod to the bouncer as he lets them through. The music is loud, bass pulsing through the floor into Jimin’s feet; the lights flicker, highlighting the mass of bodies littering the dance floor. Hoseok lets out a loud cheer, immediately dragging Jungkook towards the dance floor; Jimin watches, bemused, as Jungkook shoots him a panicked look.
“Taehyung said he’d be by the bar!” Jungkook yells, disappearing into the mass of people.
Slipping through the sea of bodies, Jimin makes it to the bar, slipping onto an open stool; he ignores the people sitting next to him, flagging the bartender down for a much-needed confidence boost.
“A mimosa, please,” Jimin calls, lips pursing as the person next to him bumps into him.
Jimin snatches his drink up, flashing the bartender a smile in thanks. He turns in his seat to people watch, eyes darting across the wall of people trying to find his friends; he spots them, Jungkook and Hoseok closer to the stage. He smiles as he watches them, matching grins on their faces; they’re cute together, he admits, laughing under his breath as he watches Hoseok smack a kiss to Jungkook’s cheek.
“Jimin-ah!”
Jimin turns, breath leaving him suddenly. Taehyung is standing next to him, a wide smile on his face. He’s wearing a pair of ripped jeans, a loose pullover sweater, and a backwards snapback. It’s a good look, fitting him well; Jimin can feel his cheeks turning pink. He gives the other a small smile, blush burning darker as Taehyung steps closer, only a few inches separating them.
“I’m really glad to see you,” he admits, scratching at the back of his neck, “I was so excited when Kookie told me you were coming.”
“You look nice,” Jimin shyly admits, giving the other an obvious once-over.
Taehyung smirks at him, leaning into his space; face hot, Jimin presses his legs together, hands sweating slightly as he downs his drink. Taehyung watches the movement of his throat, eyes hooded and intense; gulping, Jimin places the glass down gently, reaching out to grip Taehyung’s wrist.
“Want to dance?”
Taehyung grins, twisting his arm to link their hands together. He tugs at their hands, pulling the other towards the dance floor excitedly; Jimin laughs, a wide grin on his face as Taehyung plasters their fronts together, limbs flailing slightly as they dance. It’s nothing like his usual club dancing, but Jimin is having fun; it’s cute, watching Taehyung bounce around to the energetic music. Giggling, Jimin places his hands on Taehyung’s shoulders; grinning, Taehyung slings his arms around the other’s waist, pulling them infinitely closer together.
They continue to bounce together, giggling as Hoseok and Jungkook catch sight of them; the four gravitate together, Jungkook breaking Taehyung and Jimin apart to theatrically waltz with the shorter man, the other two laughing. Gesturing towards the bathroom, Hoseok breaks away to grab a drink, a light sheen of sweat decorating his skin. Jungkook stares after him, smitten, prompting Taehyung to ruffle his hair playfully. Jimin giggles as Jungkook scowls at them, face pink; the younger man turns away, faux ignoring them before scampering towards the bar.
“I’m going to get a drink, too,” Taehyung yells, leaning in so Jimin can hear him.
Nodding, Jimin shouts back, “Okay! I’m going to keep dancing for a bit.”
Giving him a smile, Taehyung slips away, Jimin looking after him fondly. Closing his eyes, Jimin starts swaying to the music, the vibrations thrumming through the floor. It’s freeing, being able to dance like this again, just letting his body move; he can feel people pressing in a bit closer, filling in the space left from his friends. Losing track of time, Jimin startles slightly as he feels a familiar warmth press against his back, hands on his hips. Slowing, Jimin glances over his shoulder, sucking in a breath; Taehyung is standing behind him, chest only inches from his back. His eyes are dark and intense, boring into Jimin’s. Carefully, Jimin turns back around, continuing to dance as Taehyung starts to move.
Chest brushing back, Jimin’s hands slowly grabbing Taehyung’s arms to pull them further around his waist. The other presses Jimin completely to his chest, forehead dropping to Jimin’s shoulder. The tempo of the music is at complete odds with their movements, Taehyung swaying slowly; shuddering, Jimin presses further into Taehyung, lungs stuttering as the taller man presses a little kiss to his neck. He cranes his head to the side, a quiet whimper leaving him as Taehyung nips lightly at the salty skin. It’s like he seems to hear it over the pounding music–Taehyung kisses up the column of Jimin’s neck, flicking his tongue against the other’s earlobe.
Abruptly, Jimin grabs his hand, pulling Taehyung through the crowd. The other laces their fingers together, grinning brightly at the flush that paints Jimin’s skin. They quickly make it out of the club, the quietness of the sidewalk a drastic change from the almost deafening music. They stumble slightly at the change, though it doesn’t stop Jimin; yanking Taehyung along, he pulls him down the street. Chuckling, Taehyung tugs at their hands, getting the shorter man to stop; turning around, Jimin pouts at the other.
“I’m not misreading this, right?” Jimin asks, taking a step closer to Taehyung, “what we were doing back there?”
Shaking his head, Taehyung closes the distance between them; lifting his free hand, he cups Jimin’s cheek, thumb running under his eye.
“Good,” Jimin purrs, yanking the taller man down to kiss him.
Immediately, Taehyung wraps his arms around the other, bringing him closer as their lips slide together. Tilting his head, Jimin pushes his hand into Taehyung’s hair, knocking his hat to the ground; Taehyung lets out a small groan, lifting the other up onto his toes. He parts his lips, the tip of his tongue darting out to tease; Jimin lets out a small moan, lips falling open. The two part for a moment before Taehyung darts back in, tongue running along the seam of Jimin’s lips. Jimin nips at him, lips quirking up as Taehyung lets out a tiny whimper; parting his lips, Jimin shudders as Taehyung deepens the kiss, hands pressing hot against his back.
A loud catcall breaks them apart, a group of rowdy, drunken college students passing them by. Embarrassed, the two separate slightly, Taehyung quickly bending down to grab his hat. The two share a glance before breaking out in giggles, their hands gravitating towards each other. Fingers lacing together, Jimin rests his forehead against Taehyung’s collarbone, a large smile on his face.
“I really like you,” he murmurs, plucking at the waistband of Taehyung’s sweater.
“I really like you, too,” Taehyung murmurs back, glancing away, coyly, “like, so much, you have no idea. You’re so pretty, it’s insane.”
“You’re the pretty one,” Jimin shoots back, starting to walk again.
Taehyung follows after him, swinging their joined hands between them; they wander through town, stopping at one point for hotteok. Jimin offers his to Taehyung, the younger man taking a large bite; squawking, Jimin shoves at the other, pouting at his chipmunk grin. They continue to walk as they finish their snacks, Jimin unconsciously leading them towards his apartment. He stops outside the building, his earlier confidence waning slightly. He bites his lip, hesitating
“I, um…did you want to come upstairs?” he asks, playing with his fingers.
Taehyung takes his hand, expression earnest.
“Jimin-ah. I really, really like you, and I would love to. But I don’t want to do anything you’re uncomfortable with.”
“You’re sweet,” Jimin murmurs, “like, the sweetest person I’ve ever met? But I’d really, really like to finish what we started earlier.”
Flushing, Taehyung nods enthusiastically; giggling, Jimin pulls him down for another kiss, heart beating fast.
“…Should’ve brought my step stool so I can kiss you more,” Jimin jokes, pressing kisses all over Taehyung’s face as he laughs.
“Did you ever find out who got it for you?” Taehyung asks, eyes warm and fond.
Jimin shakes his head, playing with the hair on the nape of his neck, “Why should I when you’re right here?”
The two men stumble into Jimin’s apartment, the door barely closing before Jimin’s pressed against it, Taehyung’s thigh pressed between his. Their lips are locked furiously, Jimin biting at the other’s lower lip; groaning, Taehyung bucks his hips involuntarily, hands heavy against Jimin’s ribs. He quickly shifts to grip the other’s thighs, lifting him higher against the door; Jimin wraps his legs around him, whining high in his throat.
“Fuck,” Taehyung mutters, breaking the kiss to mouth at Jimin’s throat, teeth nipping sharp along his Adam’s apple, “so fuckin’ hot.”
Grinding his hips down, Jimin tugs at Taehyung’s hair, yanking it as the other leaves a hickey against his throat. Moaning, Taehyung pulls them away from the door, hands tight on Jimin’s ass; whimpering, Jimin tries to steer them towards the bedroom, breathing the directions out as he gyrates his hips.
“Baby,” Taehyung grits out, hands flexing on Jimin’s cheeks, “c’mon, baby, cut it out.”
“Tae, please,” Jimin groans, reaching behind his back to fumble for the doorknob.
He opens the door, Taehyung quickly stepping in; he lowers Jimin to the bed, eyes dark and hot and entirely focused on him. Whining, Jimin grinds his hips up in the air, hands reaching out to Taehyung.
“Baby, please, I need you.”
Moaning, Taehyung falls forward, hands bracketing Jimin on the bed. He hovers over the other, watching with hooded eyes as Jimin stretches below him, knees coming up to frame Taehyung’s hips. He grinds their hips together, whimpering at the friction; Taehyung runs a large hand across Jimin’s stomach, palm ghosting over his erection.
“Fuck, c’mon, Tae, touch me,” Jimin whines, wiggling to remove his shirt.
Leaning away to give him space, Taehyung lets out a low groan as Jimin’s chest is exposed to the air, nipples hardening slightly; without warming, he leans down, mouthing at the one on the left. Jimin arches up, hands digging into his hair. Taehyung sucks at the bud, tugging it with his teeth until it’s red and sensitive; Jimin is whimpering, hips rubbing against the other’s. He continues to press kisses and bites to Jimin’s torso, fingers trailing from his sides down to his hips; shivering, Jimin grips Taehyung’s neck, a particularly sharp thrust of his hips making them both keen.
Kneeling, Taehyung rips his sweater off, tossing it carelessly behind him; Jimin runs a hand along Taehyung’s chest, fingers toying with the button of his jeans.
“Off,” he commands, tugging at a belt loop, “want these off.”
Grinning, Taehyung stands, hissing slightly as he brushes against his erection. Jimin licks his lips, watching as tight boxer briefs are exposed, straining at the front. Fumbling with his own jeans, Jimin arches his body as he pulls his pants down, smirking at Taehyung’s sharp inhale. Warm hands thumb at his hips, pulling his thighs apart to get a better view.
“Fuck, Jimin,” Taehyung whines, head dropping to Jimin’s chest, “really?”
“Did you see how tight those pants were? No way I can wear anything under them,” he says, sighing in satisfaction as Taehyung grinds their cocks together.
Growling, Taehyung thrusts urgently against him, the thin fabric of his boxers doing little to mask the sensation. Spreading his hips wider, Jimin mouths at Taehyung’s collarbones, sucking a large hickey in the hollow of his throat. He jolts as Taehyung’s hand wraps around him, nice and warm against him; he groans, hips twitching as the other thumbs at his slit, nail pressing in slightly.
“Wanna ride you,” Jimin gasps out, hands digging into Taehyung’s shoulders.
Emitting a punched out noise, Taehyung quickly clambers off the other, hands steadying Jimin as he crawls into his lap. He lines their crotches up, grinding his ass along Taehyung’s cock. Whining high in his throat, Jimin places his hands on Taehyung’s chest, fingers playing with the other’s nipples; Taehyung’s hands are like vices on Jimin’s ass, palms cupping him completely.
“Fuck, you’re big,” Jimin grinds out, teasing the head of Taehyung’s dick against his hole.
“Shit, Jimin,” Taehyung gasps out, hips bucking up, “you gotta slow down, I’m close already.”
Nodding, Jimin slows his hips, Taehyung’s cock nestled between his cheeks. The other wheezes out a loud breath, fingers flexing against Jimin’s ass; trying to hold in a moan, Jimin pets at Taehyung’s stomach, rubbing the soft skin with his thumb. Catching his breath, Taehyung looks up at Jimin in awe, expression smitten. He grabs Jimin’s neck, bringing him down for a soft kiss. They stay like that for a while, kissing each other as Taehyung calms down; once he’s not so wound up, he grinds his hips up, cock catching on the underside of Jimin’s balls. The shorter man lets out a loud groan, eyes hazy with arousal.
“Want you to open me up,” he mutters, looking towards his bedside table, “got such long fingers, gonna feel amazing stretching me open.”
Whimpering, Taehyung tries to stay still as Jimin leans over him to root around in the drawer; yet he can’t resist licking up Jimin’s sternum, lips latching around a mole under Jimin’s collarbone. Swearing, Jimin fumbles to grab the bottle of lube and a couple of condoms, dropping them next to Taehyung’s shoulder.
The taller of the two pats Jimin on the butt, voice soft as he asks, “How d’you wanna do this?”
Jimin settles on Taehyung’s thighs, running a finger along the noticeable shape of Taehyung’s cock. He shudders, dick twitching under Jimin’s touch.
“Still wanna ride you when we fuck,” Jimin says, licking his lips at the sight, “open me like this?”
Eyes falling shut, Taehyung gives him a small nod before sitting up. Winding his arms around Taehyung’s shoulders, Jimin lifts himself to his knees as the other starts lubing his fingers. Watching with hooded eyes, Jimin shivers at the initial touch of Taehyung’s finger to his hole; he sighs out as Taehyung rubs along his rim, the muscle fluttering slightly as he inserts the tip. He lets Jimin get used to the feeling before pushing deeper, finger reaching deep inside; groaning in bliss, Jimin rocks his hips down, licking his lips.
“Another.”
Taehyung looks up at him from under his eyelashes, teasing the tip of his index finger in alongside his other; Jimin moans as it breaches the ring of muscle, body getting used to the stretch. Once he’s used to the feeling he nods to the other, whining as Taehyung starts to thrust; he spreads his fingers apart, stopping every so often to add more lube to his fingers. He sticks to two fingers for a couple of moments, eyes glued to the space between Jimin’s legs; Jimin whines, pushing at Taehyung’s shoulder.
“More, I can take more,” Jimin pants out, entire body flushed pink, “Tae, please.”
Breathing heavily, Taehyung presses a third finger to his rim, the digit slipping in easily. Jimin rocks down on them, hips stuttering as Taehyung brushes his prostate.
“Oh fuck,” he whines, head dropping, “love your fingers–god, so good, so good. Reaching so deep, shit.”
Taehyung quickly adds another finger, spreading them inside Jimin; he’s panting, thighs trembling every so often as the other’s fingers brush against the bundle of nerves. He fingers Jimin for a while longer, the other whining above him; Jimin grips his wrist, stopping him when it becomes too much.
“Give me a minute,” he pants out, lungs heaving, “wanna come on your dick. You can finger me ‘till I cry next time.”
“Fuck, yeah, next time,” Taehyung promises, nipping at Jimin’s chest.
Taehyung stills his fingers, biting his lip as the other’s hole sporadically clenches around him. They’re both panting, Jimin trembling above him; he taps on Taehyung’s arm, letting out an involuntary whine as Taehyung slips his fingers out. Jimin collapses next to Taehyung, watching as he shimmies out of his underwear; he passes over a condom once Taehyung’s naked, watching with baited breath as he rolls it on.
“C’mere,” Taehyung murmurs, voice incredibly deep.
Jimin settles in the other’s lap, running his hand along Taehyung’s shaft. The younger man swears, hands finding their way back to Jimin’s ass, kneading the soft flesh. Grabbing the bottle of lube, Jimin pours some onto Taehyung’s dick, spreading it around. Capping the bottle, he gently guides the tip of Taehyung’s dick to his hole, slowly lowering himself. The two men groan, Jimin’s hole fluttering around him; Taehyung squeezes his eyes shut, jaw clenching.
“Holy fuck,” Taehyung grits out, voice hoarse, “baby–baby, oh my god.”
“So good,” Jimin babbles, bottoming out, “god, you’re so good.”
Quivering slightly, Taehyung rubs a hand along Jimin’s side; Jimin laces their fingers together, holding them against his hips. Taehyung is looking at him with soft eyes, smile on his face. Jimin leans down, pressing a kiss to Taehyung’s lips; he deepens it immediately, tongue licking into Jimin’s mouth. Muffling a whine, Jimin rocks his hips. Taehyung’s hands tighten around his, his hips bucking up.
Raising himself up, Jimin shudders at the hot drag of Taehyung’s cock against his walls; he pulls off until just the tip remains, lowering himself quickly. Taehyung groans out, detangling their hands to grip Jimin’s hips–he helps the smaller man build a quick rhythm, hips snapping up as Jimin’s lower. Moaning loudly, Jimin swivels his hips, almost shouting as Taehyung brushes his prostate.
“F-fuck, right there, right th-there,” he stutters out, sweat beading at his temples.
Adjusting his angle, Taehyung continues to thrust into him, groaning as Jimin clenches around him. He grips Jimin’s cock, stroking it in time with his thrusts. Jimin sobs above him, rhythm faltering slightly as the pleasure builds in him. Rubbing his thumb under the head, Taehyung keens as Jimin clenches tightly around him, hips pumping quickly.
“I’m not gonna last much longer,” he gets out, speeding his hand up.
Jimin nods frantically, chest heaving. He lets out a sharp cry as Taehyung nails his prostate dead-on, falling forward as his orgasm rocks through him. Taehyung moans, Jimin’s hole a vice around him; he comes a few thrusts later, groaning deep from his chest. The two lay there, panting as they calm down, Jimin shivering slightly. Taehyung rubs his hands up and down the man’s back, holding him close. Pressing kisses to Taehyung’s collarbones, he lets out a soft moan as Taehyung slips out of him, the man rubbing a soothing hand along his lower back. He gently moves Jimin to the side, kissing him tenderly when he lets out a whine.
“Lemme just clean us up, then we can cuddle,” he says, hand running down Jimin’s side.
“…Bathroom’s through that door,” Jimin pouts, pointing towards the half-open door.
Taehyung smiles at him before getting up, making a small sound as he pulls the used condom off. Snuggling into the blanket a bit, Jimin watches as Taehyung wets a washcloth, wiping it down his stomach. He comes back a moment later, running it lightly over Jimin’s groin, thighs, and hole. Carefully, he prods Jimin open again, running his finger along his walls to clean him out. Jimin lets out a small sound, the lingering tingle of arousal making him twitch.
“Shh, sorry. Just wanna make sure you’re okay,” Taehyung murmurs, wiping his finger off on the cloth.
Looking around for Jimin’s hamper, Taehyung drops the washcloth in before patting Jimin’s thigh. Grumbling, Jimin shimmies his body, letting Taehyung pull the slightly soiled blanket off the bed. He bundles it up before depositing it in the hamper as well, hurrying back to Jimin as the smaller man whines louder.
“I’m back, sorry,” Taehyung snickers, wrapping his arms around Jimin.
Sighing happily, Jimin yanks his other blanket over them, nose rubbing against Taehyung’s throat. They curl into each other, Taehyung’s hand splayed against the small of Jimin’s back; Jimin throws a leg over his hip, fingers drawing random shapes over Taehyung’s chest.
“I’m in love with you,” Taehyung says quietly, eyes focused on the line of paintings Jimin’s hung up on the wall, “that’s what the flowers mean. I love you. Even the ones on the stool.”
Gripping him tighter, Jimin nods, pressing a small kiss to the hickey he made.
“I looked up their meanings every time you left one,” he says, smiling against Taehyung’s chest, “and I think I fell a little bit in love with you every time.”
Arms tightening around him, Taehyung buries his face in Jimin’s hair. He smiles, rolling them until he’s on his back, Jimin lying half on top of him. Humming, Jimin leans in, scattering little pecks across his face. He giggles, eyes closed in happiness. They settle after a bit, whispering to each other as they lie there cuddling.
Jimin doesn’t mind the opening shift–not really.
It’s fairly quiet from four to six, the only sounds the steady drip of percolating coffee; the ice machine coming to life; the oven beeping, signaling it’s ready to use. Quiet, calming, predictable–it’s relaxing after a night spent practicing new dance routines or writing term papers. And Jimin is naturally an early-riser, no matter how late he stays up or how much sleep he gets. Even the first wave of customers isn’t enough to put a damper on his mood.
He goes about his morning routine: setting up the display case, refilling the condiment bar, wiping down the tables and counters. He inhales deeply, taking in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries. He turns on the register, opening the drawer to double-check everything’s stocked; satisfied, he moves out from behind the counter, turning the lights on and flipping the lock on the door. Soon enough, customers start coming in, most getting their drinks to go, though the café starts to fill, as well.
Jimin’s taking care of a large to go order when Jin comes in, waving at him enthusiastically. Smiling at his manager, Jimin hands off the carrier of drinks, letting out a small sigh as it finally starts to slow down.
“Busy morning?” Jin asks, leaning against the counter.
“No, just waiting for the highlight of my day, the light of my life,” Jimin says, grinning slightly.
Shaking his head, Jin ruffles his hair, entering his office a few moments later. Jimin returns to the register, wiping the system down before moving on to the counter; he can see someone in his peripheral, quickly trying to finish his cleaning.
“A venti hot chocolate, please, with extra whip cream and mocha drizzle,” a warm voice says, Jimin’s insides erupting in butterflies.
He whips his head up, beaming smile on his face; Taehyung is staring at him affectionately, leaning against the counter. Jimin hurries to the corner of the bar area, pulling his step stool forward; he places it in front of the register, quickly stepping onto the lowest step before leaning over the counter. Grabbing Taehyung’s shirt, Jimin presses a long kiss to his lips. They pull apart a few moments later, a dazed, dreamy expression on Taehyung’s face; Jimin licks his lips, smiling at the other.
“Hey good-looking,” Jimin says, thumbing Taehyung’s lower lip, “how’s the prettiest boy in the world?”
“I don’t know, how are you?” Taehyung fires back, voice only a little breathless.
Jimin shoves at him playfully, giggling as the other waggles his eyebrows. Taehyung catches his hand, pressing a kiss to his knuckles, his palm, his wrist; a bolt of heat runs through Jimin, sucking his lower lip between his teeth. He leans forward slightly, Taehyung’s eyes locked on his lips.
“Really? I am a minor, this is illegal.”
Jimin startles, turning sharply to see Jungkook standing there, expression unimpressed. Grinning sheepishly, Taehyung backs away from the counter, hands clasped behind his back.
“Yah, you’re twenty, you little brat,” Jimin says, face bright pink.
Rolling his eyes, Jungkook wraps an arm around Taehyung’s shoulders, pulling him away from the counter.
“Don’t let him corrupt you, hyung! Be strong, resist the devil’s charms!”
“What the hell, Jungkook,” Jimin yelps, throwing his cleaning cloth at the younger; Jungkook cackles, using Taehyung as a human shield.
Grinning, Taehyung spreads his arms wide, Jungkook ducking under one to stick his tongue out at Jimin; pinching the bridge of his nose, he scrunches his face he steps off the step stool. He pushes it back between the fridge and ice machine, the space specifically cleared out just for the stool. It even has a sign saying, ‘reserved for Jiminie’s (and Yoongi, if he’s nice) stool.’ Jungkook shakes his head in mock disgust, finally coming behind the counter, apron in hand.
“I hate you,” Jimin mutters in jest, swatting at the younger’s head.
Laughing, Jungkook snatches a cup for Taehyung’s order, winking at the two of them. Taehyung steps back to the counter, smile on his face. He reaches for Jimin’s cheeks, tenderly cupping them.
“I love you,” Jimin says, words slightly distorted as Taehyung squeezes his cheeks together.
“I love you too, my sweet little tuberose, my peach blossom, my mignonette.”
The rest of the staff and some customers teasing him about the stool is nothing, Jimin thinks, if this is what he gets in the end.