Archive of Our Own

Picturing a happy place. A place where a person feels most at peace. Where they can be themselves. 

Those are all Kevin’s words. Jacob never entirely understood the philosophy of having a happy place. He’d much rather be in the moment, rather than daydreaming about a place that doesn’t exist. What good is it going to do when he can’t even step foot there?

“Come on, just close your eyes,” His best friend whines, leaning over the counter. He rests his elbows on the counter, batting his eyes. “Think of where you feel most happy. Where would it be?”

Jacob sighs, shaking his head. “Kev, move.” He shoves each of his elbows forcefully with the towel that’s used to absorb coffee spills. “I’m supposed to be doing my job. I have rent to pay.”

“C’mon, just once?” Kevin pleads, his voice lilting up. “Manager isn’t even around. Just close them and think.”

Jacob knows that it’s literally impossible to try to convince Kevin otherwise. One time, he literally had to wrestle an overpriced notebook out of his hands because it had a cat pattern on it. He didn’t talk to him the whole rest of the day. Well, up until Jacob was woken up by Kevin’s desperate apologies over his bad money-spending choices through a muffled phone call.

With an exaggerated heave of breath, he sets each of his hands on the counter, avoiding the sticky coffee splatters that he should be wiping off. And then he closes his eyes, letting the dark bliss take over his vision. He waits a few seconds. And then he juts his chin toward Kevin.

“Nothing?” He asks.

Jacob nods his head.

“Just think about it.” He hears the shuffle of his clothes. “There’s no one else around. Focus.”

He squeezes his eyes tighter, so tight that his eyebrows furrow. An image begins to appear, though too blurry to fully explain in detail. He waits, breath held long for anything comprehensible to the eye to appear.

And then,

“A bouquet of flowers.”

“Oooooo-kay.” His best friend’s voice rings in front of him. Much louder than he expected, He must have leaned forward in anticipation. “That’s not a place but it’s a start?”

“No, no.” Jacob insists, forcing his eyes open. “It is.”

Kevin’s face contorts in confusion. And then he opens his mouth wide in acknowledgment. 

“So you’re like– a mini fairy? Living in a bouquet of flowers?”

Jacob snorts. “No, I’m already in that place. It’s just that…” He gestures to the empty area next to the cash register. “There’s a bouquet of flowers on this very counter.”

Kevin winces and places a hand on his shoulder with an obnoxious amount of pity. “I think you’re simply bad at imagining your happy place. You just added an element to the place that you’re already in.”

Jacob glances behind him. It can’t be that impossible for this coffee shop to be someone’s happy place. It has a cozy atmosphere with its warm lighting, dark wooden chairs, snake plants as decorations, and beige paintings that Jacob tried to decipher but they still don’t make sense. It’s all wrapped like a present, small in a box among other larger ones. The bigger boxes–mostly corporate buildings.

“What if I’m already happy here?” He pouts.

Kevin shakes his head. “Not when you complain to me every morning that you don’t want to be here.”

“I do not,” Jacob refutes defensively, abruptly grabbing the towel and finally wiping those stubborn stains.

“Would your happy place be in a flower shop?”

Jacob stiffens. Being best friends with Kevin means that nothing flies past him. He hangs his head low and mumbles a small, “yes.”

Kevin snaps his fingers. “See, that would be your thing! It’s just that they’re never hiring for some reason...”

Jacob sighs, bitterness overtaking him for just a second. “Get out,” He grumbles. “I’m busy. Manager’s coming anyway.”

The younger’s eyes soften and he takes Jacob’s hand in his. “Hey, you’ll get that job. One day, okay? I know how much you love flowers. Hence your nickname, flower boy.”

Jacob nods sulkily and he turns around after waving him goodbye.

Jacob’s always been fond of flowers and plants. He’s sure that his small obsession started back when he was just a young child. When it was time to go outdoors and play with a ball, he’d slip away and sit under a tree. He would try to make his own garden, in hopes of growing beautiful, colorful daisies and tulips. Poor young Jacob had no idea he was planting dandelions instead.

He’s dreamed of working at a florist shop for as long as he can remember. He was too busy in high school because of those excessive clubs that he joined only to get into a mediocre college. And during his college years, he was stuck studying for pointless exams. And now, the nearby florist shop would never hire him, no matter how many times he asked. He likes being a barista, but he would much rather be with pretty flowers all day long. 

He sighs. Life is full of disappointments.

Not being hired at said florist shop, doesn’t mean Jacob doesn’t visit there during his free time. He has a vase back at his apartment that he always fills with his own personalized bouquet. He chooses each flower, creating a combination that he likes to take a picture of and keep in an album that he never shares with anybody.

The door rings as he opens it and steps out into the busy street. It’s early in the morning, meaning the sidewalks are bustling with adults rushing to work and children off to school. He weaves past each of them, exactly like he’s used to.

Once he’s sure that the crowd’s died down, he slows to a steady pace. He twirls the bouquet in his hands, admiring the colors of it. There are white roses and blue hydrangeas arranged neatly and tied in a pretty ribbon. He smiles to himself.

But apparently, flowers can be so distracting to Jacob that he doesn’t quite pay attention to oncoming passersby.

“Ah–” He chokes as he feels an arm knock straight into his side. It’s so firm, that Jacob feels his whole existence shift. The pain resides quickly, but that’s when he notices that his bouquet has gotten knocked straight out of his hands. He watches blankly as it falls to the floor. 

He huffs and turns around to find the culprit. But, he can only catch a glimpse. He’s a man. A tall, broad-shouldered man. He’s dressed in a simple black and white suit and he has his phone brought up to his ear, probably talking about something business-y and urgent. Jacob notes the blonde hair that blows gracefully through the wind. 

But what really makes Jacob gulp, is the fact that he glares at him. He glares straight at him, right into his pupils. Jacob stands there frozen, processing the furrowed eyebrows, narrowed eyes, and slight sneer on the man’s lips.

Oh god, he despises me already. But Jacob can’t even bring himself to apologize nonetheless say anything at all.

With a scoff, the man’s gaze travels from Jacob to the flowers on the floor. It lingers there with slight surprise before he swiftly turns around and walks away in a hurry. Jacob follows his brief stare and much to his horror, there are dirty bicycle tracks on each of the petals. 

Jacob’s shoulders deflate. Life is all a disappointment.

“You poor thing,” Jacob whispers pitifully, his fingers gently prodding at the blue and white petals as if that will magically heal the crushed mess that they’ve become.

After that whole… incident with that grumpy man, Jacob had no time to go back and buy a replacement bouquet. He was already late for work so he hurried off and set the mangled flowers on the counter as he tended to the coffee-deprived customers.

It’s pretty ironic comparing this to the happy place that he imagined the other day.

He’s just about to leave for his lunch break when the bell of the door rings. He looks up and he holds his breath.

A man approaches him, dressed in a suit. He’s probably on his own lunch break as he quickly surveys the menu. Jacob watches him with intrigue. Something about the way he carries himself has the barista leaning a bit closer over the counter. Scary, yes, with how he walks in as if he’s short on time like he has an urgent meeting to attend to, but there’s also… gentleness. Jacob can see the way his hands fidget nervously almost as if he’s never gotten entirely used to ordering at a coffee shop. 

He has a very charming yet intimidating aura. His hair is a light blonde, swept up perfectly. His eyes are stern, yet resemble that of a deer’s. His nose is high and sharp and his lips are a pretty pink. There’s something… familiar about him. But Jacob can’t quite put his finger on it.

“Can I get you something?” Jacob smiles politely. 

The man only stares at him, his lips parted as if he’s realized something. With wide eyes, his gaze shifts from the crushed flowers on the counter to Jacob, himself. And then a sense of horror just fills his expression leaving Jacob utterly confused.

“Sir?” He tilts his head.

The man juts a finger at the bouquet. “That’s quite unfortunate.”

Jacob freezes and he glances at the bouquet. He nods slowly.

“It is...” He frowns. “A man bumped into me earlier today.”

“Oh, is that so?” He takes a step back. Jacob eyes him weirdly. Why’s he acting so scared? He reaches for the bouquet and observes the flowers. 

“Flowers are pretty either way.” He smiles. “I can just buy another one.”

“Oh,” The man chokes. “Yeah… yeah, definitely. But it costs money, I couldn’t possibly–” He stops himself.

Jacob raises his eyebrows and studies his face. “Sir, are you okay? This bouquet shouldn’t concern you so much…” And that’s when something dawns on him.

“Yes!” He blurts. “Yes, I’m fine. I’ll have an iced americano please.”

As Jacob prepares his order, he can’t shake off the feeling that something— someone’s watching him from behind. He glances back briefly, only to meet the man’s eyes again. Jacob takes back what he thought of him being intimidating. Now, he just thinks that he’s the scared one.

Jacob isn’t dumb. He now knows that this is the same man who bumped into him and contributed to the ruining of his flowers, hence why he keeps ogling at them and even wincing at the sight. 

Will Jacob say something about it? No, not yet. In some immature way, Jacob enjoys the sight of a seemingly high-positioned businessman going through a crisis over a silly group of roses and hydrangeas. Kevin would tell him that he’s an absolute menace for not saying anything, but Jacob just wants to know where this is going.

He walks back up to the man and hands him his drink.

“Have a nice day.” He pauses. “Jaehyun.”

The man inhales sharply, the tips of his ears turning bright red.

“Y-you know my name?”

Jacob grins and he points to the ID card that’s clipped to his suit.

“Of course I do.”

Jaehyun stares at him, utterly speechless before he stutters into many, many incomprehensible rambles.

“Oh! Right. Yes! Of course, I— I have this.” He pulls at it harshly. “Hah, I completely forgot. I should get going.” He painfully smiles. Jacob stifles a laugh. This being the same man that glared at him in the morning truly baffles him.

“Jaehyun?” He calls out as he’s just about to walk away. The man turns around, giving him a charming quirk on his lip.

“Yeah?”

Jacob smiles with amusement as he rests his hands on the counter. “Don’t worry about the flowers too much. I should have looked where I was going anyway.”

Jaehyun stares at him, his mouth agape as he processes his words, one letter at a time. 

“What?” He manages to strangle out of his throat.

Jacob laughs quietly, finding this man to be shockingly endearing.

“I said, don’t worry about the flowers too much.” He unconsciously scrunches his nose which only makes the man spiral even more.

Jaehyun gives him a curt nod, his ears burning significantly redder than before. And then he’s walking—stumbling—out the door, leaving Jacob to subtly smile to himself.

“Was he hot?”

Jacob almost drops the frappuccino in his hand. He whips his head to glare with as much force as he can. Kevin stares at him unabashedly. He’s always said that he was too “adorable” to be mad. 

“Could you not be so crude?” He hisses.

“What? It’s a genuine question!” Kevin replies. “Was he like hot? Like—“ He leans in and whispers, “Fuckable?”

Jacob chokes. That’s even more crude. His mind flashes back to that man again, just like it has for the past day or two since he’s met him. His wide, almost innocent eyes and his lips that constantly pouted with confusion definitely didn’t point to any of that. Sure, he may have handsome features, a sharp jawline, and broad shoulders that could pertain to being— Jacob shakes his head abruptly.

“No, he’s not fuc—“ He stops himself. Kevin raises an eyebrow, knowing very well that the only time he curses is when he’s really into something. Or someone. “But.” He shuts his eyes with slight embarrassment. “He’s not horrible looking, I guess.”

Kevin grins wider.

Jacob groans. “He looks rich. There are many warning signs about that.”

“Not every businessman is rich. Besides, what’s wrong with being rich? He could buy you all the things you want.”

He scowls. “You’re getting ahead of yourself.”

Kevin shrugs. “He seems like a sweetheart though. Getting worked up over flowers? Don’t scare him too much, Cob.”

Jacob snickers as he nods at a young woman and her child who’re ready to order. “It’s funny though. And stop bothering me Kev, I have customers.”

“It’s funny.” He mocks. “You are so mean sometimes. He seems so nice!” Kevin backs up, letting them pass.

“Could be a one-time thing.” Jacob rolls his eyes.

It isn’t a one-time thing. Jaehyun really is just nice.

Two hours later and he’s gawking at the bouquet of flowers shoved in his face.

“Jaehyun?” He peeks around the red and pink roses. It’s common knowledge that roses typically mean love and passion. But it seems that hasn’t crossed Jaehyun’s mind just yet.

“Jacob.” He enunciates every syllable after glancing at his name tag.

“What’s this?” Jacob questions.

There’s a moment of silence. And then the man only pushes the bouquet of roses further into his face. Jacob feels like he’s going to suffocate so he gently pushes it down. Now, he can get a full view of Jaehyun. His head is hung low and his eyes are guilty.

“I’m sorry,” He mutters. “It… it was me.”

The corners of Jacob’s lips lift up. Jaehyun looks up at him briefly with puppy-like eyes before his cheeks begin to turn pink.

“I really didn’t mean to, I swear,” He pleads. Jacob can only struggle to constrain a giggle. He finds it hilarious actually, how there’s a man, dressed in an expensive suit and perfectly styled hair, shoving an accidental love confession in his face.

“Roses,” He breathes out. “Very romantic of you.”

That remark gets Jaehyun to jolt. “Wait– what?”

“You do know that every flower has a meaning, right?” Jacob recalls the long nights that he’s spent researching them. “Roses. Love.”

Jaehyun’s cheeks flush and he garbles out noises. “I didn’t know. Should have researched more…” He scratches the back of his neck.

Jacob only laughs, finding this man more and more endearing by the minute.

“But seriously.” He straightens his back. “I really would like to apologize. Work is… stressful and I didn’t mean to look so rude back there.”

Jacob smiles wider. He gestures to the growing line of customers behind him, witnessing the whole thing.

“If you don’t mind, Jaehyun. Can we talk after?”

Jaehyun widens his eyes and he whips around. When he meets the eyes of the many angry, impatient customers, he winces and grasps the bouquet close to his chest. With an ashamed nod, he walks to sit at one of the tables.

(It’s then that Jaehyun realizes exactly what it looked like to the other customers. It looked exactly like his love confession was just rejected.

“Stupid, stupid,” He mumbles to himself, his face feeling like it’s on fire. Jaehyun cringes at the memory being replayed in his head, over and over again, and he feels like he can just run and hide from the world. With an exasperated sigh, he runs his hand through his hair, not caring at all that he’s messed up his slicked-up look.

A cute barista and you make a fool of yourself?

He clutches the flowers tighter. But, when he remembers what they resemble, he squeezes his eyes shut in mortification, wishing nothing except to disappear.)

After dealing with the customers, Jacob’s shift is over. The whole time that he was making the orders, he could see Jaehyun in the background, hiding his face and his leg shifting up and down nervously. Jacob has to hide his smile every time.

He takes a seat right in front of the man. At the sound of the chair squeaking, he looks up. And then he looks back down, furrowing his eyebrows.

“If you would please forget this happened… it would be great,” He whispers.

Jacob chuckles. “Why? I think it was sweet. You didn’t have to buy the flowers for me.”

“But I really am sorry.” The man pouts.

“I wasn’t mad at you to begin with.” Jacob takes the bouquet from his hands. The paper is slightly damp. This man was really sweating over a barista in a mediocre coffee shop. 

“If you’re so sure.” Jaehyun gives him a shy smile. “Who are the flowers for anyway?”

Jacob’s eyebrows raise. “Oh, no one in particular.”

Jaehyun stares at him, baffled. “I thought I had ruined your date or something.”

“No, I–” It’s Jacob’s turn to blush now. “It’s for me.”

Jaehyun only studies him with confusion. The sun is setting, the orange lighting illuminating each of his features. Jacob finds it quite unfair how good-looking he is.

“Do you like flowers?” Jaehyun finally asks.

Jacob nods slowly.

“Interesting.”

Jacob stares in horror. “You think it’s weird don’t you?”

“No!” Jaehyun shakes his head. “I genuinely think it’s interesting.” Then, he rests his elbows on the table, gazing at Jacob with his undivided attention. “Tell me then, what was your previous bouquet about?”

“I don’t actually get it for the meaning,” Jacob playfully responds. “Sometimes, I just find them pretty.” He pauses, searching his internal encyclopedia of flowers. “Though the blue flowers…”

“Yes?” Jaehyun searches his face with excitement. Jacob can only huff with embarrassment. This man is very shameless.

“The hydrangeas. They actually are related to apologies and forgiveness.”

“Oh,” Jaehyun breathes out. And then he grimaces as if he’s stung by a bee, his shoulders shooting up. “I’m sorry again.”

Jacob laughs, his eyes twinkling. “I’m still not mad.”

“Still…” Jaehyun frowns. He thinks for a moment. As if a lightbulb goes off in his head, he looks at Jacob with eagerness. “Next time, maybe I’ll buy you that exact bouquet to make up for it. Hydrangeas and…? The white flowers are?”

“Jaehyun, I’m not telling you.”

“Why?” His frown deepens.

“You have to stop buying me flowers.” Jacob lifts an eyebrow. He toys with one of the roses coyly as he looks right into Jaehyun’s eyes. “A man might get the wrong idea.”

Jaehyun freezes. “Oh, I–” And then his ears are red again. Jacob stifles another laugh. Teasing this man is incredibly entertaining.

“If you really want to make it up to me…” He trails off. “Maybe just visit this place more often? We can talk more. I can–” Jacob stops himself. Is it weird? Would this make him an absolute loser if he said this?

“You can?” Jaehyun looks at him expectantly.

“I can teach you more about flowers?” Jacob finally says, his voice becoming incredibly small. “The meanings and everything. So that you can make a better bouquet and–” God, he’s rambling. When he glances at Jaehyun, he’s surprised to see him staring back with fond eyes, a soft smile on his lips. 

“I would love to learn more, Jacob.”

Jacob bites his lip, trying to contain his excitement. Of course, he’s always had Kevin to talk to. But this… this is different. 

He’s about to respond but the ring of a phone interrupts them. Jaehyun tiredly sighs and pulls out his phone. 

“I’m sorry, Jacob. I have to go now. Work stuff. Meetings,” He groans. “Can I see you soon?”

Jacob smiles and nods. “You know where to find me.” He watches as Jaehyun stands up, stretching slightly. He looks a bit tired. He wonders what his workplace is like.

“Wait.” Jacob stops him, just before he walks out the door.

“Hm?”

Slowly, he reaches a hand up to Jaehyun’s hair. Jaehyun gulps as he stares down at Jacob, studying each of his pretty features. With nimble fingers, Jacob sets a piece of hair back in its place. It has looked very out of place for a while, almost like he had run a hand through his hair previously. 

“You can’t be going to a meeting with your hair sticking up now can you?” Jacob gives him an amused look.

Jaehyun just stands there, stiff and speechless. He ogles at Jacob, his lips quivering to say something.

“Jaehyun?” He stares up at him with soft eyes.

“You’re very cute,” He suddenly blurts out.

“Oh,” Jacob laughs bashfully. “Thank you. But you should go now. You’ll be late.”

Jaehyun can only nod, seeming to be stuck in a trance. And again, he stumbles out the door. Jacob shakes his head, his lips curling up as he watches through the window as he trips on every single crack in the sidewalk.

“He is not fuckable, he is a complete fool.”

Kevin gasps. “You cursed! You must really be into him.” He wiggles his eyebrows, making Jacob scowl and threaten to throw a pitcher at him.

“I just said–”

“You think he’s cute don’t you?” Kevin cuts him off.

Jacob sighs and puts down the metal cup. “No, I don’t. I’m just… happy that he wants to hear about my stupid flowers.” He shrugs, turning around to wipe down the counters. It seems that he does this more than making actual orders.

“First of all, your interest is not stupid. Second of all, he wants to hear about your flowers?” Kevin circles the counter, brewing with excitement.

Jacob’s shoulders square. He shouldn’t have told him that. “Yes. But maybe he’s just being polite.”

“Last time you said it was a one-time thing, he gave you a whole bouquet of roses.”

He goes quiet at that. “...we’ll just see what happens.”

The door rings again. They both look up, expecting to find a tired college student who’s just pulled an all-nighter. But instead, Jacob’s surprised to see that it’s Jaehyun. He never comes to the shop early in the morning.

Kevin gapes at him, watching as he walks up to the counter, this time with no bouquet in his hands. And then he slowly turns to Jacob, his eye practically twitching.

“You have to be kidding, Cob.”

Jacob glances at him urgently, as if to tell Kevin to leave now. “What? I did say he wasn’t horrible looking.”

“No!” He slaps Jacob’s shoulder harshly before pulling him close, whispering into his ear frantically, “Did you really just woo the CEO of that one huge real estate company?”

“What huge real estate company?” Jacob mutters back. “CEO? What?”

“I forgot the name.” Kevin smiles sheepishly. “But he’s on the news a lot. But of course, you don’t use social media. No wonder you mentioned that he looked rich. And you’re wrong, he is very fucka–”

Jacob slaps a hand over his mouth, giving an awkward laugh in the direction of Jaehyun who’s staring at them oddly.

“Hi, Jaehyun.” He forces a smile.

He gives him a cute wave back.

“Would you like something?” Jacob breathes out after finally shooing his best friend off. “I’m sorry about… that.”

Jaehyun laughs. Jacob widens his eyes slightly. His laugh is oddly attractive. His teeth gleam brightly and there are small wrinkles that appear under his eyes.

“It’s all okay. I’m not here for a drink though,” He explains. He then pulls out his phone and shows him a picture. “But on my way to work…”

Jacob’s train of thought trails off. He bites his lip, staring at Jaehyun with perplexion. CEO? Of a supposed giant company? And he’s here–showing up at a small coffee shop and asking about flowers? Jacob’s life can not get any more unusual.

“What does this flower mean? I saw it in a nearby garden.” Jaehyun looks up at him with a glint in his eye. Though, it isn’t the type that’s mischievous. It’s the type that’s alluring, filled with genuine interest. 

Jacob’s mouth stutters over a breath. “Did you… come here to ask this?”

Jaehyun grins. “Well, I did say that I would come here more often so that you can talk about flowers. Or was that just a dream?”

Jacob shakes his head, laughing shyly. “I didn’t– I didn’t mean that you actually had to. If you’re busy you could have just said so.” His hands begin to toy with the hem of his apron.

Jaehyun frowns. “I’m not.” He pauses and he shifts on his feet anxiously. “Okay, maybe I am. But I enjoy my breaks with you. It’s much better than sitting in my office chewing on a pen. It exploded once.” He sticks his tongue out to show just how bad it tasted.

Jacob stifles a laugh. “Okay.” He peers at the phone in his hand. It’s a picture of a beautiful flower, adorned with white petals. “A white camellia.”

Jaehyun looks at him, nodding enthusiastically. “What does it mean?” Jacob can’t help but think that Jaehyun is much like a golden retriever. 

“You’re adorable.”

Jaehyun visibly blushes at that. He shoves his phone back into his pocket and clears his throat. “Jacob, you’re too kind.” 

He smiles wider. “That’s what a white camellia means. Adorable.”

“Oh,” He whispers. And he’s blushing ten times more. “Flower meanings always backfire on me… I thought that you were saying that I was adorabl–”

“Well, I meant that too.”

Jaehyun chokes, practically falling across the counter. Shakily, he brings his hand up to his face, covering his reddening cheeks. Jacob laughs loudly at that. This man is an absolute fool. 

“Jacob, you can’t keep doing this. I am in a high position of my job and you’re… making me blush.”

Jacob stares in bewilderment. There’s no way this man just openly admitted his flusteredness.

“CEO.” He squints his eyes. “I made the CEO blush. Do I deserve an award?”

Jaehyun groans. “Maybe you do. So you know me already? From all those articles.” Jacob can see a sort of anxiousness flit across his expression. 

“No, I don’t. I just heard about it today actually.” Jacob narrows his eyes. “You are a very intimidating person to be asking a mere barista about flowers.”

Jaehyun gives him a mischievous smile. “Am I too intimidating to ask for your number then?”

Jacob stiffens. “Are you flirting?”

“I definitely try.”

Jacob gives him a sweet smile. “I acknowledge your failed attempts.”

Jaehyun whines, “Can I really have your number though?”

Jacob exaggerates his thinking for a good minute, making Jaehyun shuffle nervously. “If you really want to.” He hands him his phone. He can’t help but notice the huge difference in their phone models. Everything about them is just so obviously different: Jacob with his loose, tousled hair and Jaehyun with his bangs swept up prettily; Jacob’s simple t-shirt with a tan apron over it and Jaehyun’s tailored suit. The only things that they seem to have in common are the bright smiles worn on each of their lips.

With an adorable sparkle in his eyes, Jaehyun puts in his number. When he hands it back, Jacob smirks at the contact name.

Jaehyunie ❤️

“I have to go now. But text me exactly after the next person you serve or else I will ditch my meeting to visit you again.” He gives him a quick wink. “You can’t forget me, Jacob.”

Jacob grins back. “What if I didn’t text on purpose? I can just encourage you to ditch work.”

Jaehyun pouts. “Oh, don’t do that.”

He chuckles. “Fine, I won’t. It’s been a few days and you’re already getting clingy, Jaehyun-ah.”

Jaehyun breathes out a laugh. “Only because you are a very cute barista.”

Jacob bites back a smile. “Go, Jaehyun. You can’t keep being late.”

Jaehyun stares at him longingly. “I’ll see you soon then.”

“Don’t get too clingy!”

“No guarantees.” He beams.

order done :)

Wow, I haven’t even reached the building yet

Hold on

Jacob jolts when the calling screen appears on his phone. This man really is clingy. He picks up, balancing the phone on his shoulder as he simultaneously dries some of the cups set out on the counter. 

“Hello?” 

“Jacob,” Jaehyun says breathlessly. “Can I really see you soon?”

Jacob laughs, unable to conceal his smile anymore. “By soon, how soon do you mean?”

Jaehyun immediately replies, his voice laced with an adorable eagerness, “Tomorrow.” Jacob can hear the sound of an elevator opening in the background. Again, Jacob’s reminded of how different they are. Through his left ear, he can hear the hissing of the coffee machine behind him and the chatter of customers. But, in his right ear, he can hear the sound of expensive glass doors opening and the conversations of stocks and investments. 

Yet Jaehyun wants to see him tomorrow? Jacob is in utter disbelief but he can’t help but feel a little bit giddy.

“Unfortunately, I’m not working tomorrow.”

“Then, allow me to take you out,” Jaehyun replies earnestly.

Jacob places a hand on his hip. “Aren’t you the CEO of a company? Shouldn’t you be busy?”

“I can take the day off.”

“Slacking off work for me,” Jacob mutters. “I feel honored.”

Jaehyun huffs out a low laugh. “I do mean it. You’re the reason that I’m smiling for once in a while. Work makes me unhappy sometimes. I should feel honored for meeting you, Jacob.”

Jacob’s breath hitches and he has to pull the phone away from his ear for a second to compose himself. Then, he brings it back to his ear with a fond smile.

“I’m glad that I’m a suitable breather for you, Jaehyun. And yes, you can take me out on a date.”

“A– date?” Jaehyun mutters in surprise. Jacob can hear his polite hello to an employee who replies back with a tremor in her voice. Jacob wonders what Jaehyun’s like when working. Scary? Intimidating? Or exactly like how he is now?

“Yes, a date.”

“Okay,” Jaehyun breathes out a shaky sigh. “Okay. I’ll see you later?”

“Mhm.” Jacob constrains a smile. 

“Bye.” His response is oddly short and forced as if he’s playing off his excitement.

And just before he hangs up, Jacob’s suspicions are confirmed when he can catch the celebratory, “I’m going on a date!” exclamation to all of the employees who work under him. Jacob huffs out an amused laugh. This man is an absolute fool and now he’s very sure of it.

Jacob whistles to himself nervously, balancing on the heels of his shoes. He wonders if he should have dressed up a bit more. He does wear the nicer-looking clothes that sit untouched in the back of his closet, but he knows that Jaehyun’s wardrobe is going to make his outfit look like nothing.

He stands under the white garden arch–the entrance to a botanical garden. One would think that this is Jacob’s idea for a first date, but in reality, it’s Jaehyun’s. It seems that he’s very hooked on the fact that Jacob likes flowers and Jacob can’t find himself to complain about it. The view before him is nothing short of a painting. It’s a sunny, clear day, the sky’s colored a pretty baby blue, and few fluffy clouds in sight. 

What really takes Jacob’s breath away though, are the seemingly endless trails of beautiful and lovely blooms. The bushes and flowers are laid across the area, woven in neat patterns like a colorful crochet design. 

Jacob fights back an excited smile that threatens to unfold on his lips. He admits that he absolutely adores Jaehyun’s choice of a first date.

“Jacob!” Jaehyun calls from behind him, turning Jacob’s attention away from the stunning flowers to an equally gorgeous sight. When Jacob meets his eyes, he can’t help them from immediately wandering down to the rest of his body. It’s the first time that he’s seen Jaehyun out of work attire. The man has on a flowy, white shirt that further accentuates his broad shoulders. The first two buttons are undone, revealing pretty collarbones. Jacob takes a deep breath. Unfairly attractive.

“Jaehyun.” Jacob smiles, walking forward. 

“You look amazing.” Jaehyun smiles back. “Especially with the flowers behind you. They compliment you perfectly.”

Jacob’s shoulders stiffen as he tears his eyes away. “Thank you. You too.”

“You have to look at me when you compliment me,” Jaehyun playfully says.

Jacob rolls his eyes and immediately makes eye contact, surprising Jaehyun slightly. “You look very handsome, Jaehyun.”

The corner of his lips curl up knowingly. “Good to know. Should we start walking?” Jacob nods, trying his best to contain his enthusiasm. Jaehyun holds a hand out, inviting him to step through the arch first. 

As they walk, it’s a bit silent. It seems that both of them are still trying to figure out how to talk to each other. But, it’s not very awkward. In fact, Jacob feels very content, admiring the various flowers and plants as Jaehyun occasionally takes a glance at him before smiling softly to himself.

Finally, though, one of them speaks up.

“You really didn’t have to take us to a garden,” Jacob starts. “I know that you know that I like flowers but…” He flushes slightly under the sunlight, the warmth already flooding his cheeks. “We could just do something you’d enjoy instead.” He begins to play with his hands nervously.

Jaehyun’s quiet for a moment.

“Who said that I don’t enjoy being here too?” He replies, looking down at Jacob with a proud simper. “I like this atmosphere. I like being with you too.”

“Oh.”

“Being stuck in a building only lit with fluorescent lights isn’t always ideal,” Jaehyun jokes lightheartedly. “You’re a nice change of pace.”

“Thank you,” Jacob dumbly replies, completely at a loss for words. He looks up at Jaehyun and gives him a small smile. “You’re also a nice change of pace.”

Jaehyun shakes his head, giving him a disbelieving expression. “I don’t think so. I’m just a workaholic.”

“No,” Jacob refutes. “I don’t know much about you but I’m sure you’re more than that.”

Jaehyun shrugs, letting his fingers run across some of the flowers that are sticking up through the bushes. Jacob can’t help but be reminded of a prince that’s waiting for his love interest.

“Tell me more about yourself.”

“Like what?”

“Anything. Dog or cat person?” 

Jaehyun laughs. “Classic question. Dogs.”

Jacob nods, shifting just a step closer so that their shoulders brush. Jaehyun stiffens for a moment but he easily relaxes against his touch. “I figured. You remind me of a golden retriever.”

“Is it the blonde?” Jaehyun raises an eyebrow.

Jacob shakes his head no. “You’re personality. Very eager and cute.”

Jaehyun’s ears tint a slight red. “That’s also… good to know.”

Jacob laughs in response. “Do you have any hobbies?”

Jaehyun’s smile falls. “Work.”

Jacob frowns. His eyes search his, finding a hint of a burnt-out flame residing underneath. “Nothing else?”

Jaehyun quickly tries to return the light mood, forcing a half-hearted smile. “I don’t have that much time. Every day when I get home, I sort of just… fall asleep.”

Jacob nods in acknowledgment, his eyes softening. “Do you eat all of your meals?”

Jaehyun gazes at him silently, studying him so intently that it makes Jacob stutter over a breath. He notices Jaehyun’s dull eyes start to twinkle again. Genuinely and… affectionately. 

“Something on my face?” Jacob tilts his head, looking at him confused. 

Jaehyun breathes out a laugh with a slight tone of disbelief. “No. I’m just– you’re worrying about me already?”

Jacob clicks his tongue, grumbling as he breaks the heart-quickening eye contact. “I wasn’t. I was just asking a question. You get too ahead of yourself, Jaehyun.”

“I don’t know,” Jaehyun sings, nudging him by the shoulder. “Sounded like you were worrying about me. Don’t worry, Jacob. I take great care of myself.”

Jacob eyes him skeptically. “If you say so.”

“Hey, don’t doubt m–” Jaehyun’s cut off by his phone ringing. The tune of it has slowly started to become more and more familiar to Jacob himself. 

Jacob watches as he turns on his phone, reads the contact name, and promptly declines the call. His eyes widen.

“Why did you decline it? It seemed important.”

Jaehyun grins. “You are much more important in my opinion.”

“But– your work?”

“Don’t you worry your pretty brain about it. Like I said, I can take care of myself.” They turn a corner, onto a new section, adorned with tulips and a fountain in the center.

Jacob huffs. “I’ve never met someone who calls my brain pretty.”

The man turns to him. “Attractive. Your brain is also very attractive.”

“What?” Jacob chokes out. 

Jaehyun chuckles. “I mean it! You know so much about flowers. Your knowledge is very attractive.”

Jacob groans. “You’re flirting.”

Jaehyun gazes at him with an unreadable expression. “Maybe I am.” And before Jacob can respond, he’s pointing at one of the tulips. “What does that specific color mean then?”

“The pink tulip?”

Jaehyun nods.

“Good wishes.” Jacob smiles fondly. The petals sparkle prettily, probably from yesterday’s rain. “They’re one of my favorite flowers.”

“Really?” Jaehyun looks at him with utmost interest. “How many do you have in total?”

“Three.”

“What are they?”

Jacob pauses, glaring at him with playful suspicion. “Are you trying to make another bouquet for me, Jaehyun-ah?”

He widens his eyes as he places a hand over his chest, feigning hurt. “You’ve caught me.”

Jacob bursts out into laughter, making Jaehyun stare at him so softly that it causes Jacob to abruptly stop out of pure embarrassment. He looks down at his shoes as if it’s the most interesting thing.

“You’ll have to go on a few more dates to find out,” He finally says.

Jaehyun’s eyes brighten. “More dates? ” 

Jacob nods bashfully.

“I’ll gladly take you up on that offer,” Jaehyun grins. “In fact, I’m very happy right now.” 

Jacob can’t help but let out a breath of relief at that statement. He can’t quite get used to the uptight Jaehyun that occasionally appears when the topic of work is brought up. He likes to see the Jaehyun that claims so truthfully that he’s happy with a serene expression on his face.

“If you’re so happy,” Jacob starts. “Let me take a picture of you.”

Jaehyun’s eyes widen with shock. “Me?”

Jacob snorts. “Who else? I did say that you look handsome today.”

Jaehyun bites back a smile. “Okay. Make sure I look good.” Jacob nods with a small laugh. Jaehyun stands in front of a group of tulips. Specifically, the pink ones. Jacob can’t help but adore his attention to detail. 

He pulls out a small digital camera that he likes to carry around. He brings it up to his eye and Jacob’s pleasantly surprised to see Jaehyun pose so naturally. His shoulders are relaxed, his hips tilted slightly as he stares at the lens with a charming, subtle smile and a slight tilt of his head.

“Perfect. You look like a prince,” Jacob says with complete honesty, the words spilling out of his mouth without him thinking. Jaehyun chuckles bashfully at his sudden comment.

Then he walks back up to him. He takes the camera from Jacob with a nod for permission. Both of them briefly hold their breath when their hands brush, a feeling of electricity sparking between them. 

“Oh, you do make me look good,” Jaehyun marvels. “Is this how you see me in your eyes?”

Jacob huffs out a laugh. “Mayhaps.”

“Good to know,” Jaehyun repeats, smiling widely. Jacob’s eyes sparkle as he studies Jaehyun once again. Now he’s sure that he very much enjoys this version of him: the always smiling one with a relaxed frame. His favorite version. Jacob wonders just how taxing his work is to suddenly take that version away so quickly.

As they walk back, they talk almost nonstop this time. The silence is long gone. Occasionally, Jaehyun will stop to ask about a flower, hoping that it’s one of those three favorite ones that Jacob’s mentioned. He never guesses it right, but at least Jaehyun knows more about daisies and orchids. 

“Jacob, I’ll miss you,” Jaehyun truthfully says as they reach the gate. His hair blows in the wind, the setting sun illuminating his face beautifully.

“You can see me anytime I’m working. Or when we go on…” Jacob finds himself stumbling over his words suddenly. It seems that Jaehyun’s started to make him feel a bit nervous. “Dates. Whenever you’re free.”

Jaehyun smiles. He visibly hesitates for a moment, his arms twitching. And then he walks forward, pulling Jacob into a comfortable hug. Jacob breathes out a small “oh,” as he wraps his arms around him, resting his chin on his shoulder. He can’t help but notice that Jaehyun smells like sweet, sweet flowers. 

Oh, Jacob’s going a bit off the rails.

“I don’t mean that. Of course, I’d love the dates and to see you at work,” Jaehyun whispers. “But I’ll miss you tonight. Whenever we are apart, I think I’ll miss you.”

Jacob squeezes his eyes shut, feeling extremely glad that they’re hugging so that Jaehyun won’t notice his cheeks flushing pink.

“Jaehyun, you’re awfully…” Jacob sighs, at a loss for words. He shakes his head in disbelief, his chin digging into Jaehyun’s firm shoulder. “Clingy.”

“So I’ve heard,” Jaehyun laughs, pulling away.

“And sweet,” Jacob continues. “You’re a sweet person and I’ve learned that today.”

Jaehyun beams. “Have I won you over, Jacob?”

“I think you have from way before. When you shoved roses in my face.”

Jaehyun grumbles, a blush rising on his cheeks at the memory. “I told you to forget about that.”

“Never.” 

“He said what? ” Kevin gawks at him. Jacob sighs. He needs to stop telling him things. Even if they’re best friends and they are technically vowed to tell every single secret, Jacob cannot help but be embarrassed.

He’s not the best at picking up hints. So, whenever he tells Kevin what Jaehyun says and he interprets it for him, that’s when he realizes just how romantic and saccharine Jaehyun’s words are. Jacob isn’t sure what to feel about it. It puts a funny feeling in his stomach that doesn’t leave until he falls asleep.

“Nevermind.” Jacob feels a blush begin to rise as he abruptly turns around to act like he’s busy making an order. Unfortunately, it’s too early in the morning for there to be any customers.

“No, no, repeat that,” His friend breathes out.

Jacob holds back a frustrated groan. “He said,” He starts, his voice evidently louder. “That whenever we’re apart, he’ll miss me.”

Kevin widens his eyes as if it’s his first time hearing it. He brings a shaky hand up to his mouth in utter disbelief. “Oh, my god.”

“What is it?” Jacob looks at him cautiously.

“I think– I think he really likes you.”

Jacob chokes on his spit, which quickly goes dry in his suddenly parched mouth. “What? That’s too fast. Now that I think about it, you both are so alike. Always getting ahead of yourselves.”

“Okay, you may be right about me.” Kevin nods his head sheepishly. “But him? He can’t be ahead of himself. I’m so sure that he’s fallen for you Jaehyun. This isn’t some– flirting game. Jacob, this is real.”

Jacob shakes his head, closing his eyes. “That can’t be true, Kev. You haven’t witnessed how we interact.”

“Then tell me.” Kevin smiles slyly. “How do you guys interact?”

Jacob grows quiet. He thinks back to all the times that they’ve talked and accidentally touched. Every time their hands accidentally brush or their shoulders bump, there’s a shock that sparks between them. It isn’t the type that a person gets when they rub their feet on the carpet and get static electricity. It’s the type of shock that seems to jump-start Jacob’s heartbeat. Their conversations seem to have the same effects. It isn’t just the playful flirting. It’s the genuine compliments and soft looks in between.

“I…” Jacob whispers, completely stumped on what to say. “It’s nice, I guess. I like to talk to him.”

“See? What’s stopping you then?”

Jacob sighs, looking down at the dirty towel in his hand. “We’re just so different. I can’t help but feel like… I don’t really suit being the guy to go on dates with someone like him.”

Kevin frowns. “Because he’s a CEO?”

Jacob nods, embarrassed.

“That doesn’t seem to bother him though,” Kevin says. “In fact, I think that you are the exact person he needs.”

Jacob only eyes him sheepishly. “I don’t know.”

“Just give it a thought. Talk to him about it.” Kevin winks. “Communication is key.”

Jacob huffs with a small smile, nodding as he rolls his eyes. 

After Kevin leaves, Jacob continues doing what he’s not being paid enough for. There are barely any customers so he focuses on cleaning. He wipes down all the machines, even mopping the sticky floor for once. 

A particular song comes on, courtesy of the customers’ ability to queue up music. He enjoys paying attention to their different tastes. Sometimes, he gets startled by a loud rock song and other times, he finds himself falling asleep over someone’s preference for soft ballads. This song though, is actually one of his favorites. Jacob adores the song so much that while he’s drying the cups, he can’t help his hips from moving to the melody.

He mouths the lyrics as he continues to dance subtly to the music, his back turned to the cash register. But then, his ears register a quiet laugh from behind. Jacob turns around and he almost drops the cup in his hand. He scrambles to grip it though. He can’t afford to clean up another mess.

“Jaehyun,” He breathes out. He gulps, willing his cheeks to stop heating up. He’s so sure that they’ve tinted pink already.

Jaehyun gives him a soft smile, leaning forward to rest both of his forearms on the counter. “Cute dance,” He remarks, looking at him endearingly.

Jacob blushes more at that, abruptly turning away to hide his face.

“Sorry,” He mutters. “Should have paid more attention to my fellow customer.”

Jaehyun pouts. “Am I just a mere customer to you?” Jacob looks at him with surprise, about to reply when Jaehyun cuts him off. “Or am I a man that you go on dates with?”

Jacob inhales sharply at that. “The latter…” He mumbles shyly.

Jaehyun nods, accomplished. 

“Your order?”

Jaehyun shakes his head. “I came here to give you this.” That’s when Jacob realizes that there’s a single pink tulip in one of his hands. Jacob widens his eyes and he hesitantly takes it from Jaehyun’s exceptionally pretty and slender hands.

He twirls the stem of it, admiring the beautiful color. He turns to Jaehyun, his eyes glittering.

“Where did you get this?”

Jaehyun laughs bashfully, adjusting his tie slightly. “Just… the nearby flower shop.”

“You bought more flowers for me,” Jacob deadpans. 

Jaehyun nods, completely unabashed. “I definitely did. And what will you do about it, Jacob?” He leans forward, his smile so attractive that it forces Jacob to tear his eyes away.

“Nothing!” He stammers. “Just… surprised that they still have these in stock. I usually buy from there all the time.”

“Oh, do you?”

Jacob nods and in a hushed voice, he mentions something else. “I want a job there too.”

Jaehyun frowns slightly. “Why don’t you work there then?”

“They won’t hire me,” Jacob sighs, defeated. “It’s fine though.’

“It’s not fine,” Jaehyun insists. “Trust me. You deserve to work at a place you enjoy.”

Jacob eyes him with amusement. “Well, do you?”

Jaehyun stutters. “I– under circumstances… no, I don’t either.” Jacob laughs. It seems that both of them have their own career woes. He sets the tulip down, giving Jaehyun his utmost attention.

“Tell me about your work then. Are you scary? Should I be worried?”

Jaehyun straightens at that. “Do you take me for one of those super mean CEOs in dramas that become soft and cringy for the main character?”

Jacob pauses. “Oddly specific. But yes, I was wondering that.”

Jaehyun laughs fondly. “Take away the mean part. I will always be soft and cringy for you.”

Jacob’s lips quirk up. “Are you implying that I am the main character in your world?”

“I most definitely am.” Jaehyun smiles. Jacob’s come to adore that smile. Of course, it’s always been cute. But these days, he can’t help but let his gaze linger on his expression for a moment longer.

He huffs out a laugh. “So I’m assuming you’re nice at work?”

Jaehyun nods. “Even if it’s tiring, I really do try. Lightening up the mood and everything. It’s an extra task on me but you know… it’s just my duty.”

“Don’t be too hard on yourself,” Jacob tells him with a soft voice. “Being burnt out is only going to cause worse things.”

Jaehyun gives him a half-hearted smile. “I don’t know how to help it. I only have you to keep me from… you know, spiraling.”

Jacob breathes out a shaky sigh. Jaehyun’s words have always done that to him.

“Then lean on me. I’ll be there when you need me.”

“Oh, Jacob,” Jaehyun sings, the mood lightening again. “You’re making me fall.”

Jacob squints one eye, looking him up and down. “You’re still standing.”

And right on cue, Jaehyun stumbles on a wet puddle on the floor, almost falling face first if he hadn’t held on to the counter. Ah, Jacob forgot to clean that up.

“Are you— okay?” Jacob winces.

But Jaehyun only replies with a foolish smile.

“See that?” He says. “I physically and romantically fell for you.”

Jacob rolls his eyes, setting the pink tulip aside to find a place for it. Except he knows precisely where he’s going to put it. He has it all planned out: in the small vase right on his bedside table, the one that’s the first thing he sees when he wakes up. But he would never admit that to Jaehyun.

“Do you have one of those… business cards?”

Jaehyun widens his eyes, his hands immediately falling into his pocket as if on instinct. He must really be a successful businessman. 

“What for?” He pauses, looking at Jacob with suspicion. “I don’t want you to worry about my work. It’ll be too much.”

Jacob sucks in a breath as he frantically tries to come up with an excuse. “I just–” He exhales slowly, shaking his head with defeat. He’s never been good at lying. But then, he decides to motion Jaehyun closer.

“I need to tell you something,” He says with a sly look.

Jaehyun’s eyebrows rise but he leans in anyway–like the oblivious man he is–over the counter so that Jacob can position himself right next to his ear. He tries to ignore the sweet, sweet scent of his cologne and how pretty his neck looks at the moment. These details seem to show up more frequently and Jacob doesn’t really know what to do with them. He’ll probably use them in one of his dreams. One time, he had a dream about Jaehyun where they were cuddling in bed. He can never quite shake that one.

“You look good today,” He finally whispers, making sure to tilt in just a bit closer. Unintentionally, Jacob’s lips brush against his earlobe and Jaehyun visibly shivers at that. Jaehyun seems to be frozen in place until Jacob pulls away with a small smile, tucking something into his pocket. 

Jaehyun stares at him with a stunned expression. His hands wipe on the fabric of his pants. Jacob can assume it’s from sweat.

Jacob chuckles. “Are you okay? Jaehyun?”

“Yes!” He blurts out. “I’m great. Amazing, actually. And I think I have a– work thing to go to. I mean a conference. Right.”

Jacob clenches his jaw to hold back the laugh that threatens to escape him. He’s even forgotten a whole word. “Okay.” He reaches up to brush through his hair. “Have fun, Jaehyun.”

“Mhm,” He manages. “And thank you. For fixing my hair again.”

“What would you do without me?” Jacob jokes.

“I really don’t know.” Jaehyun gives him a shy smile, as he gazes at Jacob softly. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Jacob’s heart jumps. When Jaehyun’s out the door, Jacob reaches into the pocket of his apron. He pulls out a small, white piece of cardboard. Printed on it is the company that Jaehyun works in, along with his contact information. He smiles proudly to himself. He’s a successful thief… of a business card.

Though Jacob could have simply searched up Jaehyun’s full name and found what company that he works at, he didn’t swipe the business card for that specifically. He needs the number that a person’s supposed to call when they want a personal appointment to talk with the CEO. Which is the reason why he’s holding a bag in his hand and currently standing in front of the building.

He’s underestimated just how… esteemed this building is. It’s tall, covered in windows, and polished to perfection. When he faces the entrance, there are workers or customers, dressed in pencil skirts or three-piece suits bustling in and out through the revolving doors. Jacob feels small here. He’s just a coffee shop barista who’s supposed to meet the CEO of this huge company for an appointment.

He wonders why he was even accepted so easily. They didn’t even do a background check.

With a deep breath that seems to resonate throughout his whole body, he steps through the doors and walks to the main desk, fidgeting with the handles of the plastic bag. There’s a lady working there with her hair slicked back into a bun and a stern quirk on her eyebrow. She looks up at him from her computer with a bored expression.

“Can I help you?”

“I uh– have an appointment with Lee Jaehyun?” Jacob nervously taps on the marble counter.

“You?” She frowns, clicking away with her mouse as she turns to the screen skeptically. “He doesn’t usually accept any sort of appointments…” She mumbles to herself.

Jacob gulps.

But then, her eyes light up at something appearing on the monitor. She looks up at him with surprise as if this has never happened before. “Jacob?”

“Hm?” He widens his eyes, forgetting his name for a second. “Oh. Yes, that’s me.”

She gives him a tight smile, motioning to the elevator. “You’re right on time. Twenty-fifth floor.”

Jacob nods, picking up the bag. He truly prays that the food doesn’t spill or get any more crushed than they already are. Jacob may have bumped into someone on the way there. 

The night before, Jacob had set aside his personal time for binge-watching shows and instead, he spent a good two hours making sandwiches and cookies. The sandwiches… could be better. They’re barely holding on, but it should taste alright. He truly hopes. Jacob should really join Kevin on those cooking classes. The cookies though, Jacob actually prides himself in them. They look nice, decorated with delicious-looking chocolate chunks, and when he had taken them out of the oven, he had to stop himself from taking a bite himself.

He glances around the elevator. Apparently, no one needs to go to the twenty-fifth floor because, by the twenty-third floor, he’s all alone. He shifts from his right foot to his left foot as he watches the number climb up, one by one. He also tries not to look behind him because he’s sure that he’s going to see the whole city below him and he might feel sick. Finally, the elevator dings, shaking Jacob out of his little trance. The doors open and he’s met with a very demeaning hallway. And by demeaning, he means it.

It seems to never end. Though he’s glad it isn’t dark or eerie like those scary movies with the hall that leads to ghost twin girls. It’s lit with, as Jaehyun mentioned before, fluorescent lights, as well as the natural glare from the large windows. 

Jacob again, fiddles with the plastic of the bag. Standing here, Jacob begins to even wonder if he should have brought a fancier bag. A bag of all things, he worries about. Maybe a leather? Or would silk be better? Jacob sighs. He is very out of place here. But he steps through, walking through the hallway that smells very oddly like gardenia flowers. He had expected a more… pencil-shaving type of scent.

On either side, there are doors that lead to meeting rooms. Some are empty while some are filled with important-looking people who seem to be very stressed over a screen with bar graphs and pie charts. Jacob purses his lips and tries to ignore them.

After who knows how long, Jacob finally reaches the door. He is aware that Jaehyun isn’t the full-on owner of the company, but he still thinks that the plate on the wall next to it that reads “CEO” puts a heavy pounding in his heart. He stands there for a moment, contemplating if he should just take the elevator back to the main floor. But, he’s reminded of his main purpose, so he sets aside the racing thoughts and he knocks on the door lightly.

“Yes?” A voice rings out from the other side. Jaehyun’s voice.

With a large gulp of air, Jacob turns the doorknob. There, he’s met with the sight of Jaehyun, sitting at his large, glass desk, organizing papers. He looks up and he widens his eyes.

“Jacob,” He breathes out.

“Hi, Jaehyun.” Jacob’s voice lilts up unsurely.

“Are you– my appointment?” He stands up, looking at him with a completely stunned expression. He puts down the pen in his hand and circles the desk to approach Jacob. Immediately, he’s encompassed in Jaehyun’s cologne. Jacob’s come to adore the smell of it.

Jacob gives a small nod, suddenly feeling miniature even though Jaehyun’s only a few inches taller. 

Jaehyun gives him a soft smile. Though, Jacob can tell he’s tired with the way his eyelids droop and his lips struggle to hold that same smile. “Sit here.” He walks over and pats the couch. Of course. It’s leather. 

Jacob takes a look around. For a CEO, it’s quite a comfortable room. It isn’t like those gigantic penthouse-looking ones. Sure, it’s much bigger than an average office, but it’s full of warm colors. It seems that Jaehyun especially hates fluorescent lighting as every lamp here is warm-toned as well. And there’s something… that makes the room look much more lovely. Jacob can’t quite put his finger on it just yet.

“So.” Jaehyun sits beside him. Jacob fears he might look angry, but instead, he’s met with Jaehyun’s gentle expression that always leaves him slightly breathless. “I have questions, Mr. Bae.” He raises an eyebrow, making Jacob stifle a laugh. He’s glad that Jaehyun’s still the exact same here.

“What’s up?” Jacob responds casually.

“How did you even manage to get an appointment here?”

Jacob thinks back to his exquisite plan. Well, he did most of it. But, he also wonders how he was even permitted in. That lady had said that Jaehyun never does appointments after all.

“I… stole your business card. From your pocket,” Jacob sheepishly admits.

Jaehyun gapes at him. “You what?”

“I’m sorry,” Jacob mutters. But his lips curl up into a smile.

“You’re definitely not sorry.” Jaehyun eyes him with an adorable, fake expression of anger. “So you flirted with me to get a business card.”

“I did. And also because I think your reaction is quite endearing to me,” Jacob replies casually.

Jaehyun blushes. “Flustering me in the workplace now?”

Jacob nods proudly. But then, his face contorts into confusion. “The lady downstairs mentioned that you don’t take appointments. Did you already know it was me? Is that why I was let in?”

Jaehyun stares back in perplexion. He shakes his head slowly, but something in his eyes implies that he’s figured something out.

“I don’t… I don’t control appointments,” Jaehyun replies. “My assistant manages that. Eric. He’s a rascal by the way. I don’t even know why I chose him.”

Jacob laughs at that. That must be the excited voice on the other side of the line when he had called. Jaehyun grins back as he stands up and walks over to his desk. He rests a hand on the edge of it as he leans in to use the mouse of the computer. 

“So no.” He glances at Jacob briefly. “I really didn’t know it was you. I was wondering why he told me that I had one today when I specifically told him to reject all of them. But now I know.” Jacob can see his ears start to turn red.

Jacob tilts his head. “What is it?”

Jaehyun sighs and he presses on something on his computer.

“Because he knows you.”

Jacob swallows thickly. “Is that… bad?”

“No, I–” Jaehyun hangs his head low, taking a peek at Jacob with an adorably shy look. “He sent me an email which I didn’t read. He said that…” He trails off, his voice stuttering. Instead, he motions Jacob over gently. Jacob follows. “You can read it yourself. It’s a bit–”

Subject: New Appointment

Hyung! Mr. Lee. Blah, blah, if you would stop ridiculing me for just trying to be casual. Let me call you hyung. But anyways, I got a call from someone for an appointment. His name is Jacob. Jacob Bae, he said. 

I accepted it. It’s tomorrow at 11 am. 

And I know you told me not to accept any whatsoever since you’re busy and all. But isn’t this the same guy who you always talk about? The cute barista? The one who has the prettiest brown eyes and gorgeous laugh and the most kissable li–

“You can stop reading,” Jaehyun whispers, planting his hand on the bottom of the screen.

Jacob turns to him, his eyes wide and his lips parted. “Jaehyun.”

“Yes?” He winces.

“Do you… talk about me?” 

Jaehyun gulps. Jacob can see him contemplating denying it. But then he sighs in defeat, his cheeks still red. “Of course, I would talk about you. You’re so…” He lets out a pathetic sound that sounds almost like a whine.. “Hence why my assistant knows you. I may have…” Another pathetic sound. “I may have rambled to him. About you. A lot. Like a fool.”

Jacob feels his heart practically bloom like a flower in spring. And that’s when he realizes what makes Jaehyun’s office so lovely. It’s the flowers that are scattered around. And they’re all the ones that Jacob has talked about so far.

Blue hydrangeas on the windowsill. White camellias on his desk. Pink tulips on one of the tables in front of the leather couch. 

In a place where Jacob’s sure he doesn’t belong, Jaehyun makes it so that there’s a part of him here anyway.

“You flatter me,” He whispers, looking down at his hands that have suddenly gotten sweaty. 

Jaehyun smiles. “I’m just telling the mere truth.” Jacob nods quietly and he goes back to where he had set the bag down on the couch. He fiddles with it, deciding whether or not he should bring up the contents. He’s unexpectedly having a sudden bout of embarrassment right now. But of course, Jaehyun notices. “What’s in there?”

Jacob laughs nervously. “Oh, it’s nothing. I–”

Jaehyun frowns cutely. “Don’t be nervous, Jacob. I know you came here for a reason.”

“It’s hard not to,” Jacob mutters to himself.

“And why’s that?” He leans both of his hands on the desk this time, showing off his broad shoulders and his slim waist

“Everything here is so… elegant. I feel out of place.”

Jaehyun’s frown deepens. “I’m sorry.” 

Immediately, Jacob’s filled to the brim with guilt. “No, don’t apologize. This is just different.” He motions to his clothes. “The least I could have done is dress up more.”

Jaehyun shakes his head fondly. “Never think that. You look perfect all the time. If you prefer, I can dress down instead?”

Jacob stares at him with puzzlement. He eyes what Jaehyun has on. Of course, it’s another one of his expensive suits. It hugs his shoulders and waistline in all of the right ways. The tie is pulled tightly, portraying Jaehyun’s neatness and responsibility at work.

“Dress down?” He questions with a small voice.

“Dress down,” Jaehyun confirms with a pretty smile. “To make you feel more comfortable.”

Jacob has no idea what he means by dress down. But he’s always rolled with Jaehyun’s objectively weird mannerisms. “...Okay. Thank you.” He doesn’t even know what he’s thanking him for. 

He sits back down on the couch. When he looks up, Jacob’s throat constricts at the sight. Jaehyun, behind the desk, is pulling the suit jacket off his shoulders. Jacob wonders if he’s trying to seduce him right now because why is he taking it off so slowly? He watches as he sets the jacket on the chair. His eyes travel to the waistcoat that hugs his torso perfectly. He takes that off too, his pretty, long fingers working the buttons. Now, he’s only left with the dress shirt underneath and the tie on top. The dress shirt just looks obscene on him. It accentuates his broad shoulders and chest, making him look like he came straight out of one of those Sexiest Man Alive magazine covers.

Jacob must be going insane because his cheeks feel like they’re on fire right now. Yet he can’t take his eyes off the scene like a teenager watching porn for the first time. Jaehyun’s hand comes up to grasp the tie and he tugs at it harshly, loosening it. Jacob thinks that’s the last of his impromptu strip show. Well, up until Jaehyun undoes the cuffs of his sleeves and unbuttons the top two buttons of his shirt, revealing golden skin that leads to– who knows–Jacob knows basic human male anatomy. 

He swallows harshly since his mouth had gotten concerningly dry. In the very back corner of his mind, the corner that’s reserved for thoughts that are to be dealt with late at night, he wonders what it would be like if Jaehyun removed just one more layer. 

He coughs.

“Jacob?” He looks at him innocently. 

“I’m– fine.” Jacob quite literally feels like a Victorian man who has experienced his first strip tease of the century.

“Ta-da!” He has the audacity to do the stupid jazz hands. “I’m all dressed down.”

Jacob shoots him a shaky smile. He cannot do this anymore.

Jaehyun approaches him with his new look that makes Jacob want to cry and fall to the floor. In a good way. Jaehyun’s so handsome like this. This much be what he looks like when he gets home. Jacob’s mind wanders. His hair tousled, tie still loose, and his eyes resting as he leans against the couch with his hips shifting ever so slightly, sensually, to get comfortable. Jacob desperately bats the daydream out of the way.

“So what’s in the bag?” 

Jacob freezes. He forgot. “It’s really nothing much,” He insists. 

“Show me,” Jaehyun softly replies, looking at him like he’s the sole person in the whole universe.

“It’s just that… when you talk about work, I always feel horrible. You seem so worn out and I–”

“I can take care of myself, you know.”

“Well, let me take care of you just for today then,” Jacob snaps with furrowed eyebrows as he reaches into the bag.

Jaehyun gapes at him. “Oh, wow.”

Jacob pauses after realizing his tone. He stutters profusely, “I– I’m sorry.”

“Jacob.” He gives him a small smirk. “You’re awfully attractive when mad. Did you know that?” He leans just an inch closer but that’s enough to leave Jacob stuttering even more. 

A weak “shut up” is all Jacob can manage.

“As I was saying,” He huffs. He pulls out the sandwiches, neatly wrapped in plastic wrap and the cookies placed in plastic tupperware. “I figured I could make you a little something. You know, so that you aren’t feeling too tired and all.” His voice gradually becomes quieter in the last sentence when he notices the way Jaehyun’s staring at everything in awe.

Jaehyun looks back up at him, a pretty sparkle accompanying his doe-like eyes. “Jacob,” He breathes out. “This is…”

Jacob flushes. “It’s not much but–”

“No,” He cuts him off. “This is just enough. This is enough for me and it always will be.” He looks him in the eye with a pleading look. “Jacob, I’m really falling.”

Jacob’s about to remark again, that he’s still standing. But Jaehyun seems to actually fall. Into his arms. He scrambles to balance the cookies and sandwiches in his hand as he returns the hug. Jaehyun holds him closely, tightening him up against his chest. 

“Thank you,” He mumbles into his shoulder. “You don’t know how much this means to me. To have someone make food and take care of me.”

“I thought you said that you can take care of yourself,” Jacob whispers.

“I can,” He utters. “But when you’re doing it, I feel so… I can’t say it right now.”

Jacob chuckles softly and he pulls away. He’s met with Jaehyun’s bright, bright smile.

“Do you want to eat now?” He asks.

“Yes, I’m starving. For your affection and for your food.”

Jacob snorts in response.

“You–” Jaehyun almost chokes on the sandwich that was being voluntarily shoved down his throat. On his own behalf. “You made this?”

Jacob winces. “I did. I know it’s not great but–”

“No this is delicious,” He groans. He takes the last bite and then he shoves his fingers into his mouth, licking them in a vulgar way. Jacob’s mind wanders for the nth time that day. “And the cookies?”

Jacob flushes red this time. “I tried my best with them.”

“Let’s see.” He grins, picking one up and taking a bite. And then he licks his lips with his tongue slowly. Jacob gulps, his eyes wandering to where his bottom lip is slick with spit. Oh, is he going crazy? He can’t even tell Kevin about his thoughts anymore.

But again, Jaehyun only stares at him with an adorably innocent face. Jacob’s glad he doesn’t have the ability to read minds because he might as well shrivel up on the couch.

“This is very, very good, Cobie.” 

“Cobie?”

Jaehyun widens his eyes. “Do you not like the name? I was thinking about it in the middle of a meeting. I was wondering if–”

Jacob laughs. “No, I– I like it. It’s cute.”

“I’m glad. Cute like you.” Jaehyun smiles softly. “But really, Jacob. Thank you so much. I can’t say it enough.”

Jacob shakes his head bashfully, clutching the bag in his lap closer to his chest. “It was nothing. I just wanted to do something nice.”

“And not because you have also fallen for me?” Jaehyun raises an eyebrow attractively. His eyes rake over Jacob’s body for some odd reason. All Jacob knows is that it leaves him feeling hot and heavy.

“Hey.” Jacob bats him away. “Shouldn’t you be working right now?”

Jaehyun continues to stare. “You didn't answer my question.”

Jacob turns away. In a quiet voice, avoiding Jaehyun’s watchful eyes, he says, “I guess I may have taken a small attachment to you.”

“Did I hear that right?” Jaehyun grins cheekily. He leans forward in anticipation. “Repeat that.” His voice drops to a low register that sets off a fluttering feeling in Jacob’s stomach.

“Why do I have to?” Jacob whispers, tilting backward.

Jaehyun grows silent at that, almost as if he’s figuring out an understanding for himself. His eyes search Jacob’s with something that makes every limb of his body go weak. Finally, Jaehyun says a few quiet words, the teasing grin becoming a soft pull of his lips.

“Because you make me happy,” Jaehyun whispers. His eyes soften as he gazes at Jacob with his utmost sincerity. “You… being here. You’re my happy place.”

Jacob bites his lip. He knows that his cheeks are going to become sore if he smiles much more. His heart is also pounding in his chest both at Jaehyun’s words and at the way he’s looking at him like he's a sweet piece of candy in a bag of sour ones.

It takes Jacob a few seconds to realize that Jaehyun’s never stopped once in leaning closer. His eyes are glossed over in some kind of daze, his cheeks tinted pink and his eyelashes fluttering.  It’s not that Jacob doesn’t want this. He just doesn’t understand the general timeline of romance. Should they be kissing now? Or is it too early? Too late?

“Jaehyun,” He whispers helplessly. But, it’s too late, as Jaehyun’s already trapping him between his strong arms, his hands on either side of his body. Jacob gulps thickly, as he slowly falls against the handrest of the couch. Jaehyun only approaches him further, his eyes heavy as he gazes at Jacob with so much tenderness and affection that it leaves him gasping for air.

Jacob closes his eyes, expecting a soft pair of lips on his. But instead, he feels those same arms being wrapped around his torso and a nose being buried into his neck.

“I’m taking this slow,” Jaehyun whispers against his skin. “I’m waiting for you.”

Jacob stays silent. He’s never been good at feelings. He should ask Kevin, right? But he stops thinking of his best friend at that moment. Instead, he relishes in the feeling of Jaehyun hugging him warmly as he hides his face in the crook of his neck.

“You’re so affectionate,” Jacob laughs shakily. He really hopes that Jaehyun can’t hear or feel how fast his heart is beating.

“So I’ve heard that too,” Jaehyun chuckles. He doesn’t make a move to get off just yet. Instead, he relaxes in his hold when Jacob slowly returns the hug, his hand coming up to his upper back to rub the muscles soothingly. “I’ve missed you, Jacob.”

“As you’ve mentioned,” Jacob whispers.

“I like hugging you, Jacob.”

“As I’ve observed.”

It goes quiet. And then Jaehyun whispers something else. The words are quiet, whispered straight into his neck but it resonates perfectly through Jacob’s ear.

“I… really like you, Jacob.” 

“Oh,” Jacob breathes out. “That’s different.”

“You dont have to respond right now. Like I said–” He pulls away, smiling up at Jacob with an adorable grin and flushed cheeks. “I take it slow.”

Jacob smiles back. “Thank you.”

“Mhm,” He hums with a crinkle of his eyes. He dives back in, snuggling back into Jacob’s body. This time around, his hands begin to caress his waist slowly. “Best day of my life actually. I was stressed over these new projects today but your hugs make me feel… like I can conquer the world.”

Jacob snorts. “You’re such a flirt.”

“Heard that too.” 

Suddenly, the door swings open. Jacob should have thought the most sensible action would be to scramble to get Jaehyun off him to avoid anyone getting the wrong idea. But to be completely honest, he can’t quite let go of Jaehyun’s comfortable warmth that easily. So instead, he just looks up.

Jaehyun does the same, merely picking his head up with a raised eyebrow, his arms still around Jacob. In Jacob’s upside-down view, he can see a man with brown hair, of course, dressed in a suit. What makes him different from many others though, is that his eyes are unusually bright and happy. His mouth is also gaping at the sight.

“Hyung,” He whispers in astonishment.

Oh shit. That’s when it truly registers in Jacob’s mind how wrong this position seems. Jaehyun on top of him, his legs tangled with his, just mere inches from his lips. Not to mention, Jaehyun’s completely disheveled clothes. Anyone could assume they were doing the deed in the office. The CEO’s office of all.

His hands fly to Jaehyun’s firm chest and he pushes him off. Now is the time that he scrambles to get off, as he abruptly sits up in his seat, breathing heavily and cheeks flushing.

“How many times do I have to tell you not to call me hyung in the building?” Jaehyun groans. His hands adjust the tie that’s been loosened and then it brushes through his messed-up hair. God, Jacob squeezes his eyes shut. It really looks like they just had the time of their life. In the completely wrong, crude way.

“How about you tell me what’s going on here?” The man wiggles his eyebrows, leaning against the doorway with crossed arms.

Jacob now realizes this is the assistant. Eric. Well, he’s glad he at least already knows him.

“Nothing that you’re thinking of in that pesky brain of yours right now,” Jaehyun snaps.

Eric pouts. “Anyone who witnesses this would sensibly believe that you guys were just making out. Or even having se—“

Jacob squeaks, bringing his hand up to his face. 

Jaehyun sighs. “You’re making my guest uncomfortable.”

“Sorry!” Eric exclaims. He walks over to where Jacob’s sitting and he bows. Ninety-degree angle and all. “Jacob, right?”

He slowly nods.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you!” He grins excitedly. “You have no idea how much Jaehyun talks about you.”

Jacob glances at Jaehyun for a second, catching the way he grumbles and starts blushing. “How often, exactly?” He smirks.

“Oh, I like you,” Eric laughs. He takes a seat on the coffee table, setting his elbows against his knees. He also ignores the small “get off the table” remark from his boss. “Everyday really. For the past few weeks he’s been rambling on and on.”

“Eric,” Jaehyun warns with a weak voice.

“I mean usually, the whole time I’ve been his assistant, he’s been really quiet and brooding. But now, you must be so special to him because he’s constantly smiling and just… mentioning you whenever he can.” Eric smiles fondly. “It’s kind of terrifying actually.”

Jacob chuckles, looking at Jaehyun whose shoulders are stiff with a small pout on his lips.

“And that one time! Last week!”

Jaehyun chokes, slamming his hand on any surface he can find. “Don’t—“

“He showed up in my office. And he—“

“I’m going to fire you,” Jaehyun growls.

“You would never,” Eric retorts, waving his hand dismissively. 

“What did he do?” Jacob asks gently. He’s on the edge of his seat both figuratively and literally.

“Eric please,” Jaehyun whispers pleadingly. Unknowingly, his hand flies to hold onto Jacob’s thigh, gripping it tightly. Jacob gulps, his gaze lingering there for a moment.

“He walked into my office and closed the door behind him.” Eric snickers. “He then leaned against it, slid down it like an absolute fool, and d’you want to know what he said?”

“Eric.” Jaehyun gives him a warning glance that falls upon blind eyes. 

Eric turns to Jacob with a sly smile. “God, I think I’m in love. No, is that too fast? But Eric, I really, really, really, god— I just like him so much.”

“Oh my god,” Jaehyun mutters, covering his face with his hands. “I didn’t say that many reallys.”

Eric raises an eyebrow, leaning forward. “But you said that you were in love, didn’t you?”

“Well–” He abruptly stands up. “I also said that I was going too fast. Don’t confuse him, please.”

Jacob can only stare up at him in a daze. He silently ponders to himself as he tries to process every word but they only get more and more jumbled. He’s in love? But he doesn’t want to go too fast? He did mention that he takes things slowly. 

Jaehyun notices his silence and so he holds his hand out. Jacob tentatively takes it and stands up with him.

“Jacob, I think I need to get work done now, so…” He trails off, looking at him sheepishly.

“Oh.” Jacob’s eyes widen. “Oh, of course. I’ll go.”

“Let me walk you out.”

Jacob misses the glare that Jaehyun shoots his assistant as they walk out of the office. Once they’re out of Eric’s earshot, Jaehyun faces him with red cheeks.

“About today…” He winces. “I’m sorry about that.”

Jacob gives him a reassuring smile. “Sorry about what?”

Jaehyun frowns. “Because I think I may have puzzled you.” His hand takes hold of Jacob’s for a brief second, giving it a tight squeeze. “I did mean it when I said I would take things slow. Please don’t feel pressured.”

Jacob’s eyes only soften more. “Was what Eric said true?”

Jaehyun freezes, breaking the intense eye contact. “He may have exaggerated a bit but, yes. I did say those things. But you don’t need to respond or think too much about it.” He laughs awkwardly. “I sometimes don’t have a filter over my words.”

“Well,” Jacob laughs gently. “If you meant it then that’s all that matters.”

“Really?” Jaehyun’s eyes light up adorably.

“Mhm.” Jacob smiles. “And thank you, Jaehyun. For not rushing me. I promise that I’ll give you an answer soon enough.”

Jaehyun grins. “Great. So would you be more prepared for my affections? Physical touch is my thing, you know.”

Jacob laughs. And this time, it’s him who pulls Jaehyun into a tight hug. He hooks his chin over his shoulder, breathing in his familiar scent. Jaehyun breathes out a shaky sigh but he’s quick to return it, his strong arms wrapping around his body.

“I don’t want to go back to work,” Jaehyun whines quietly. “Let me stay here, please.”

“You have to,” Jacob whispers. “People might walk in on us. We’re in the middle of the hallway.”

“So let them,” He grumbles. But he pulls away nonetheless, studying Jacob’s face with concern. “Unless you’re not comfortable then–”

“I’m okay.” Jacob gives him a smile. “Just another minute then.”

“Okay,” Jaehyun smiles back giddily. “Another minute.” And he plunges back into his arms like a dolphin into the water, giving him an adorable hum into his neck.

Jacob won’t say it out loud but he swears that his heart skips a beat. But he estimates that that’s happened about ninety-nine times already today.

Kevin stares off into space, dreamily. His chin is in the palm of his hands, a goofy smile on his lips. Jacob only eyes him weirdly.

“Are you going to help or not?” He whines.

“No, no.” Kevin shakes out of it, grinning up at him over the counter. “I’m just wondering how the fuck you got such a perfect man wrapped around your finger. Like a ribbon, he’s so… ugh– he likes you so much, Jacob.”

Jacob breathes out a curse under his breath. “I know that now.”

“No, but you don’t understand.” He straightens up. “He says that he’s in love with you–not just to you! But to his closest assistant. He talks to people about you, Cobie.”

“Yeah, but he said that he went too fast and took his words back.”

“And that’s what does it for me.” Kevin snaps his fingers. “He’s so–respectful? He claims that he likes you but never wants you to rush with an answer. He says he’s in love but is quick to take it back to not pressure you.”

Jacob swallows the thick spit that’s accumulated in his throat suddenly.

“I– I don’t know.”

“About what?” Kevin asks gently. “You’re feelings?”

Jacob nods slowly as he spins the tip jar around, over and over, watching the coins inside jingle around, creating a song that resembles how his heart feels right now.

“He said there was no rush.”

Jacob sighs with frustration. “But I– I think I like him back.”

Kevin’s eyes brighten at that. “You do?”

Jacob flushes.

“Oh my god, you’re even blushing.”

Jacob can’t even deny that either. He is blushing and he doesn’t know what to do with himself. Every day, he started to think of Jaehyun. His stupid, stupidly charming smile and his pretty eyes that are always soft on his, Jacob just wants to lose his mind and kick around in his bed. Maybe he’s done so already.

“Tell me,” Kevin starts. “What do you like about him? It’ll help you be less unsure.”

Jacob thinks for a moment. “Physical or personality wise?”

“Physical first.”

“Well he’s…” God, Jacob’s face feels so hot right now. “He’s attractive I guess. His facial features? They’re pretty.”

Kevin’s smile continues to grow. Jacob chooses to ignore him.

“And he’s somehow very muscular,” He mutters to himself.

“What.” His best friend gapes at him. “You saw him without clothes on?”

“No!” Jacob blurts. “Just– when he hugs me I can feel his…”

“Dick?”

“What?” 

“Sorry, sorry.” Kevin snorts. “His arms, back, and shoulders are muscular then?”

Jacob nods shyly.

“I knew it. You even have a hunk being head over heels for you.”

“Shut up, Kev.” Jacob reaches to pick up a cup. For a second, Kevin even flinches thinking that he would throw it at him. One day, Jacob might as well do so.

“Personality wise?” Kevin grins.

Jacob freezes. There’s a lot to like about Jaehyun’s personality really. He loves his stupid little jokes and the way he contributes to Jacob’s interests, igniting a flame that’s been dying for a while. But if he were to choose one word to describe it, it would be,

“Sweet. Like candy.”

“Wow, he even has you making similes.” Kevin gazes with wonder. “I thought you hated literature class.”

Jacob groans. He did hate literature class. Kevin knows that he despised stepping into that high school classroom every day. Yet, here he is, comparing Jaehyun to anything that he can think of. Sweet like candy, pretty like a lotus flower…

“What do I do?” Jacob puts his head in his hands. “I think I like him.”

Kevin smiles. “Then tell him.”

“I can’t. I’m too nervous.”

“Then… we’ll figure out something.” Kevin leans over the counter and that’s when his hand bumps into something. The empty coffee cup that Jacob had previously picked up. He narrows his eyes, seeming deep in thought. “Working in a coffee shop… but loves flowers.”

“Are you describing me?” Jacob asks.

“Yes and I have a great idea. If you’re too shy, you can… indirectly tell him.”

Jacob tilts his head, slightly in fear of Kevin’s proposal.

Kevin looks at him with a bright sparkle in his eye. “Have you ever tried origami?”

Jaehyun grumbles to himself. It’s only ten in the morning yet these graphs already aren’t making sense. They’re starting to look more like a child’s scribbles, rather than lines that are supposed to show sales trends. He resists the urge to slam his forehead down on his keyboard.

But then his mind wanders to him. He thinks of his beautiful smile, his somehow completely perfect teeth, and his kind, kind eyes. He also lets his thoughts travel to what he would do if he saw Jacob again. It hasn’t even been that long but oh, the things he would do. He would first pull him into a hug… maybe nuzzle his nose in his fluffy hair, and then he would stare at his lips and admire the shape of them like he’s done countless times.

And just like that, Jaehyun’s smiling to himself like an absolute moron, as he tugs at his collar hotly.

But his smile falters when there’s a knock on his door. He looks up from his computer, expecting an employee here to deliver more papers to sign or reject. But instead, it’s his assistant. Jaehyun will never admit it but he feels a sense of relief when he sees the young man. He’s like a breath of fresh air. Still obnoxious though.

“Coffee order?” He peeks his head through the door. Jaehyun stands up at that and he wonders if maybe the graphs have made him lose his mind because he does not recall ordering a single cup of coffee.

“For me?” Jaehyun mutters, watching as Eric walks over to his desk, setting down the cardboard cup carrier. In two out of four of the slots, there are in fact, coffee cups. 

Eric stands back with a sigh, putting his hands on his hips as if those cups were the heaviest thing ever.

“That sleep deprived?” He glances at Jaehyun with slight concern.

“Huh?” Jaehyun replies dumbly. 

“Two coffee cups for Lee Jaehyun,” Eric leans down to double-check the sticker on each cup. He nods as if to confirm that his name is strangely on there. “You know, reliance on coffee is never good, boss.”

Jaehyun stares at it blankly. “Yes. I know. And I–”

The younger glances at his watch and he widens his eyes. “Shit, I have to greet these new investors. Snappy old men. Like crabs, honestly.” And he’s rushing out the door with a small wave.

Jaehyun breathes out a sigh and he sits back down in his chair. His butt sort of slips on it, embarrassingly. Do all chairs here have to be leather? He reaches forward, pulling the carrier closer. He takes out the first cup, turning it around in his hand. And just as usual, it’s warm and smells delicious. Taking a sip, Jaehyun’s delighted to find that this is his exact order. Well, other than the refreshing iced americano, he also gets the caramel macchiato when he wants to act like he’s part of a painting where a person sits in front of a fireplace.

But then he forgets to swallow when he realizes that there’s a small napkin under where the cup was. Indented with a circular mark, there’s someone’s handwriting on it. It’s cute and neat. With furrowed eyebrows, Jaehyun reaches to take it out.

good luck at work :) -Cobie

Jaehyun practically feels his heart explode. He leans back in his chair, clutching his hand over his heart. He might as well treasure this napkin. Frame it under a gold trim. Stare at it forever and forget his responsibilities.

And the fact that Jacob had prepared coffee for him and had it delivered? Jaehyun wants to crumple in his chair and cry happy tears. But he sits up when he remembers that there’s another cup.

Maybe this one’s for Eric. But it’s a pity as Eric’s probably dealing with those crabby old men right now.

When his hands grasp around the lid of the cup to pick it up, he almost accidentally flings it behind him. And it’s not because Jaehyun’s hands are clumsy. They are, but only around Jacob. Oh, how he wishes Jacob was here right now. He might as well press a fat kiss on his head at this point.

But he almost flings it because it’s oddly light. It’s as if a scientist had decided to invent coffee that weighs a single ounce. He peers at it curiously. And then he shakes it up to his ear like a child does with a Christmas present. 

There’s something inside. It sounds like a small piece of paper. Maybe it’s another napkin with an adorable note? Jaehyun pulls off the lid and squints. Taking in a small inhale, he’s instantly shaking the item into his hand. 

“What is this…” He mumbles to himself. When he turns it over, he realizes it’s a flower. Well, not an actual flower. But it’s a small, white piece of paper that’s been folded into a flower. It looks so intricately made, the petals sharp and perfect. Jaehyun finds himself smiling to himself for the third time today as he twirls it in between his fingers, taking extra care not to accidentally bend it.

“Cute,” He mutters. “Like him.” With a giddy beam, he sets the origami flower next to his computer, in the perfect spot where he can stare at it whenever the graphs start to look like a child’s scribbles again. Speaking of, he glances at his computer screen and he’s surprised to find that the graph looks completely sensible now.

Jaehyun sighs foolishly to himself. He likes Jacob so much. He’s even cleared his mind.

“I’m sad that you didn’t come visit yourself.” Jaehyun pouts, standing in front of Jacob at the counter. It’s the next day and Jacob’s stifling a laugh at his dopey, sulky expression.

“I can’t keep interrupting your work, Mr. CEO.” 

“I really don’t mind,” Jaehyun rushes to say. He reaches forward and takes Jacob’s hand in his. “You made me smile yesterday.”

Jacob grins, intertwining their fingers which Jaehyun widens his eyes adorably at. “I’m glad, Jaehyun.”

“Oh, and the little flower? Beautiful.” Jaehyun smiles back. “How come you never mentioned that you can do origami?”

“That,” Jacob breathes, his cheeks reddening. “I learned recently. For you.”

Jaehyun gazes at him like he’s the light of the darkest room. “Did you really?”

Jacob nods silently.

Jaehyun laughs. “Because when I saw…”

And Jacob’s practically leaning all the way over the counter, anticipating what he’s going to say. He wonders if Jaehyun’s noticed the… extra component in the flower. He wonders what he’ll say or what he’ll do–

“The petals? They were so well done.”

Jacob’s shoulders sink slightly at that. But he also brightens at Jaehyun’s heartfelt compliment.

“It’s a magnolia,” He blurts out. 

“Magnolia?”

“Mhm,” Jacob hums, his eyes beginning to sparkle now. “My second favorite flower. White magnolias means stability.”

Jaehyun smiles at that. “So I find out the second one. When will I get the third?”

Jacob chuckles. “Soon?”

Jaehyun raises his eyebrows. And then a smirk grows on his lips. “Want to know what else is stable? Other than magnolias?”

Jacob eyes him suspiciously. “What?”

“My admiration for you, Cobie.”

“Oh my. You flatter me,” Jacob replies in a monotone voice.

Jaehyun whines. “At least show more enthusiasm.”

Jacob shakes his head with a laugh. It takes them a while for their hands to break apart. It also takes them a while to say goodbye to each other because Jaehyun has another meeting. And finally, it takes a while for Jacob to stop smiling to himself even after he leaves.

It occurs to Jacob in the middle of the night.

“Oh my god,” He groans, hitting himself with his pillow. “He didn’t open the flower. That fool. Of course he wouldn’t want to ruin it.”

When he calls his manager that morning, saying that he wants to do a delivery, she’s pleasantly surprised. She’s always observed how Jacob’s more of an introvert, choosing to stay in one place.

“So who’s the lucky gal? Or guy?” She grins, leaning an elbow on the counter, only for her to abruptly pull back because there’s a huge water puddle on it.

Jacob flushes. “What?”

“Delivering to…?”

Jacob hangs his head low. He takes the coffee carrier in his hand and heads for the door.

“Just… someone.”

And as he’s walking out into the street, he hears her voice call out with a sing-songy tone.

“You had better kiss them soon!”

Jacob rolls his eyes with a shy smile. He’s had a few dreams of doing so.

Jacob doesn’t make an appointment this time. Well, he tries to, but as soon as Eric hears his voice through the phone, he’s immediately telling him to come over at any time. If Cupid was a human man with a puppy-like energy that follows him around, it would be Eric.

So now he finds himself in front of Jaehyun’s office once again. Balancing the carrier in his left hand, he knocks on the door. Jaehyun immediately swings the door open with a frustrated frown.

“I already told you that the project is postpon–”

“Hi.” Jacob’s voice is oddly shy.

“Jacob.” Jaehyun smiles, his eyes immediately brightening. “What brings you here?” He steps aside so that Jacob can enter. Then his eyes travel to the two coffee cups. “Ah.”

Jacob gives him a shy tilt of his lips. “You said you wanted me to deliver them, didn’t you?” They walk over to Jaehyun’s desk so that he can set them down. His eyes catch on to the small, magnolia that’s still sitting on his desk. 

If only… he would open it.

“Yes,” Jaehyun breathes out. “I just didn’t expect you at this moment.”

“Did Eric not tell you?”

Jaehyun shakes his head with a fond smile. “I enjoy this aspect of surprise though.” Stepping forward, he reaches for one of the cups. Jacob immediately panics and he shoves his hand to the other one. Jaehyun widens his eyes cutely.

“You can open that one after I leave,” He mutters.

Jaehyun stares at him for a moment. And then he easily complies, taking the other cup. When he takes a sip, he grins at Jacob.

“You know me so well.”

Jacob laughs, “I just memorized your order.”

“Still,” Jaehyun says. “I like when you remember things about me.”

Jacob’s eyes soften at that. “Why wouldn’t I? You’re special.”

“Am I?” Jaehyun’s eyes glint. He sets the cup down, now taking a step in Jacob’s direction. They’re close. So close right now that Jacob’s faced with the sight of Jaehyun’s tie. He wonders what it would be like if he tugged it off himself. If his fingers closed around it, pulling it harshly with the tips of his fingers brushing against his chest briefly, sending shudders down Jaehyun’s spine.

“Mhm,” Jacob hums quietly, avoiding his eyes.

“Look at me.” A finger under his chin is pulling his eyes away from the tie and right into Jaehyun’s dark brown eyes. Jacob gulps.

“Jaehyun.”

“Jacob.” Jaehyun’s eyes darken. He shuffles ever so closer so that their chests are against each other. “Jacob, I like you so much.”

Jacob feels his heart skip a beat. He’s said it already but it never fails to make Jacob feel like he’s been electrified. He takes in deep breath after deep breath as he stares up at him–the CEO who has apparently fallen for him simply because they had accidentally bumped into each other on the sidewalk. His eyes wander down to his lips. Jacob wonders what would happen if he just–

With a shaky exhale, instead, Jacob leans his head forward. He presses his forehead against Jaehyun’s chest, reveling in the warmth and firmness of it. He knows that his ears must be burning bright red and that if he looked up, Jaehyun could see his pink cheeks. And so he hides his face in said man’s chest, his hands loose on his sides.

He feels Jaehyun inhale for a moment but he easily slackens. Jacob can hear an endeared “hm?” resound through his chest and he bites his lip with growing embarrassment. Maybe he should move. He should step away, maybe run out the door–take the elevator back down. 

What is he doing? He doesn’t know, yet he still doesn’t move.

But then he feels Jaehyun’s hand come to where his lower back is and he pushes him even closer to his body so that now their hips are pressed together.

“You okay?” Jaehyun whispers.

Jacob nods. 

“I don’t mean to overwhelm you,” He mutters. “It’s just that when I see you, I can’t help but tell you over and over again my feelings. Rest assured, I’m not rushing you, okay?”

Jacob smiles to himself as he buries his forehead further into the midsection of his chest.

“I don’t feel rushed,” He answers. “I’m just feeling… shy.”

“Oh,” Jaehyun breathes out stupidly. And then he chuckles. “Okay. Then you can hide all you want.” The other hand that’s not holding onto the small of his back, is placed on top of Jacob’s head, carding through the strands gently. Jacob bites back another widening smile at the sensation.

“You’re so perfect,” Jaehyun whispers.

Jacob feels his cheeks flush even more. “Thank you. You too.” God, he’s horrible at accepting compliments.

“I’m not perfect,” Jaehyun replies. “It’s only you. You’re like an angel.”

Jacob laughs, pulling away briefly to make a joke, but when he meets Jaehyun’s tender eyes and the amount of love in his pupils, he pauses in his tracks. And then he thumps his head back into his chest with a grumble.

Jaehyun only laughs adorably, his hands returning to his lower back and to the top of his head.

When Jacob leaves even though Jaehyun had practically pleaded with him to stay, he turns to the unopened coffee cup. He doesn’t even bother to shake it as he eagerly pries it open and lets it fall into his hand.

This time, it’s a pink, folded piece of paper. And Jaehyun recognizes the shape. It’s a tulip. Jacob’s first favorite flower that he’s mentioned before.

He smiles at it and he sets it right next to the magnolia. 

Two out of three.

Jacob can’t help but confess that he’s getting a little bit agitated. He’s told Kevin about it and now he’s being encouraged by him to just tell Jaehyun straight up. But he just… can’t. It’s a lot for Jacob and he’s not sure if he can even manage out the right words to describe his feelings.

He sighs to himself, letting his finger trail through the several straws, clumped together in a rickety metal container.

The door rings and he looks up.

When he said that he was agitated, Jacob completely takes that back now. The moment his eyes simply land on Jaehyun’s frame, it’s like all of his problems have completely dissipated. Even though Jaehyun may or may not be the problem himself, something about the way he slightly trips adorably on the welcome mat of the coffee shop, makes Jacob completely forget everything and anything negative. He finds himself smiling dearly at him. 

But much to Jacob’s horrifying surprise, Jaehyun doesn’t smile back. He approaches the counter, his phone in hand with what looks like important agendas that he should be attending to.

But instead, he’s here.

“Busy?” Jaehyun tilts his head. His eyes flicker around almost with a sense of anxiousness.

Jacob looks around. There literally is no other human being here other than the two of them.

“No,” Jacob laughs casually. “Why?”

Jaehyun shakes his head, his eyes falling to Jacob’s hands as if trying to motion him over. His eyes glance up at Jacob briefly before he looks back down, his fingers fidgeting. Jacob’s amused smile drops at his body language. Something about it is worrying: his restlessness, his darting gaze…

“Are you okay?” Jacob asks with a frown.

Jaehyun doesn’t answer at first, seeming to be distracted by his own thoughts.

“Jaehyun?” He asks again.

Jaehyun finally looks up with surprise. His bottom lip juts out slightly. “Oh, yes. I was just wondering if…”

Jacob waits patiently, studying him with perplexity. Jaehyun’s always been the more forward one. Yet here he is, struggling to finish his sentence with a tint of pink on his cheeks. And then Jaehyun lets out an embarrassed sigh.

“If you could maybe hold me for a minute?”

Jacob’s eyes widen at that. He straightens up, letting his hands fall to his sides rather than resting on the counter. And then his gaze softens at the way Jaehyun blushes further, refusing to make eye contact.

“Is everything alright today?” He speaks softly.

Jaehyun laughs sourly. He shakes his head and that’s when Jacob can see the dark circles under his eyes. “I’m just tired. I’m supposed to be doing all these CEO things but I just… can’t. So I came here. To see you.”

Jacob feels his mind go numb for a moment. But then it comes back to him in both a heartwarming yet sorrowful cloud of thoughts. 

“Okay.” He takes a breath. “Do you want a hug?”

Jaehyun nods almost immediately and it’s odd to Jacob how he suddenly seems so small. Physically, maybe not. But his timid body language makes Jacob truly want to wrap his arms around him. His shoulders twitch and his eyes blink nervously. And so Jacob does so. Lifting the gate of the counter, he steps out, circles the perimeter, and stands before Jaehyun.

He half-expects Jaehyun to hug him himself, but he just stands there, looking at Jacob wordlessly. Jacob gives him a soft smile and he steps forward, letting his arms snake around Jaehyun. His pace is slow, giving him time to maybe back out if he wants to. When he’s sure that he’s okay, Jacob’s hand comes to his upper back, his other around his waist.

He feels Jaehyun exhale slowly, his stiff muscles finally contracting. His arms come around Jacob’s lower back and around his neck. He hides his face into the slope of Jacob’s shoulder as he’s always loved to. He can feel the way he takes deep breaths against his skin. It makes Jacob shudder a bit but he remains still.

When Jacob’s nails scratch against Jaehyun’s back slowly, Jacob widens his eyes slightly to hear a whine escape Jaehyun’s lips. It’s quiet and soft but Jacob hears it perfectly as he feels Jaehyun lean even further into his embrace.

They stay like that for a few moments. There are no words spoken as Jaehyun practically melts into his hold, holding him tightly, his fingers slightly digging into his back as if to ask him to just stay.

“Okay?” Jacob finally whispers. 

Jaehyun nods slowly, his hair tickling the side of his neck.

Jacob smiles to himself, beginning to rub in up-and-down motions, all over his back. “I’ve got you. You’re okay.” Jaehyun hums into his neck. 

After a few more–minutes? or seconds–of them simply holding onto each other, Jaehyun pulls away. His eyes are still slightly dim, but Jacob’s glad to see the familiar sight of his pretty, pretty smile.

“Thank you,” He whispers. “I’m sorry if that was an odd request but–”

Jacob’s immediately denying his words. “It’s okay. Like I said previously, you can always have me to lean on.”

Jaehyun’s smile grows at that. He searches Jacob’s eyes silently, filled with so much fondness and affection. “God, I like you so much.”

Jacob laughs. This time, he doesn’t have the urge to hide in his chest anymore. But he does want to do something else. But he holds it off for a moment.

Jaehyun’s hand trails down his arm to entwine his fingers with Jacob’s. 

“You’ve made me feel so much better just from your touch. Are you aware of what you do to me?”

Jacob bites back a giddy smile. “I would love to learn more,” He replies.

Jaehyun chuckles. “I’ll tell you all about it one day. Oh, while I’m here…” He glances at the menu. “I should order a drink. I’ve got some exhausting paperwork to do after this.”

Jacob’s about to wholeheartedly agree because this is his job after all, but that’s when he remembers the half-completed flower origami, sitting and hidden behind one of the coffee machines.

“No!” He blurts out.

Jaehyun jumps slightly. “Why?”

“I– I’ll deliver it soon.”

Jaehyun observes him for a moment. And then he grins, completely oblivious. “Then I’ll be waiting. Don’t you forget.”

“I won’t.” Jacob laughs. When he looks up, he’s noticed that yet again–Jaehyun’s hair is messed up again. Though, it’s not as bad as the other times, some pieces still stick up like a puppy’s. “C’mere.”

Jaehyun immediately catches on and he leans down this time so that he doesn’t have to reach his arm up. Jacob chuckles and his fingers come to his hair to smooth down the strands. And just like that, the sudden urge to do that thing comes back. Jaehyun’s so close. So near and he smells so sweet and–

Jacob suddenly turns his head and presses his lips to his cheek. It’s a soft, fleeting kiss. It’s so light that if Jaehyun wasn’t paying attention, he wouldn’t have even noticed. But he does, and Jacob can see the way his cheeks start to turn red. He pulls away and clears his throat.

Jacob swallows thickly as he looks away, his hands starting to grow clammy.

“Did you just–” Jaehyun stares at him in a complete daze.

“I didn’t,” Jacob instantly replies, his voice wavering with a huge lie.

“I could’ve sworn…” He gives him a small smirk, which only makes Jacob flush even more. 

“Go.” He pushes Jaehyun by the chest weakly. “Forget it.”

The man only gazes at him with hearts in his eyes. “You can’t expect me to forget this,” He mutters. And he’s out the door. Or he’s stumbling again. Jacob sighs, resisting the need to hide his face in his hands.

“What am I doing?” He whispers to himself as the feeling of Jaehyun’s cheek against his lips comes rushing back all over again.

“Knock, knock.” A voice sings from outside the door. Jaehyun looks up to see it opening and Eric walking in with a coffee carrier in his hands. Again, there are two cups placed. “Seriously, two cups of coffee at once is not healthy.”

Jaehyun stares at them wordlessly. “I was expecting Jacob.”

Eric feigns hurt. “Ow?” He places a hand over his chest. “It’s been delivered . Not delivered by him.”

Jaehyun sighs, resisting the urge to pout. He knows that if he does, Eric will never let him live it down. When he sets the coffee down, Jaehyun immediately feels both of them. One is hot, his typical order, and the other… his most favorite.

Eric leans the back of his thighs against the edge of the desk as he plays with the ID card around his neck. Silently, he does so, ignoring Jaehyun’s odd noises of opening the coffee cup. And then he groans, turning his head to face him.

“You will not believe those old men. They aren’t even crabs. They’re like sharks. Like how am I supposed to explain to them that our policy is– what’s that?”

Jaehyun freezes in the midst of shaking the small origami flower into his hand. With widening eyes, he looks up at Eric with an awkward smile.

“Nothing.”

Eric stares in awe. And also a hint of jealousy. Jaehyun’s always known that he’s a big fan of romance. He once walked in on him crying over a romance movie when he should’ve been creating his agenda.

“He makes you little flowers?” He gawks.

Jaehyun nods slowly. His hand cages around it protectively.

“He’s made two already.” He gestures to the white magnolia and the pink tulip on his desk. He studies the one in his hand. It’s yellow and the petals are round like the sun.

Eric nods with acknowledgment. And then he leans closer. Jaehyun looks at him cautiously simply because he’s made it his mission to protect these little paper flowers with all his life. Well up until Eric speaks up again, his voice laced with surprise.

“There’s writing in it.”

Jaehyun stiffens and eyes Eric to make sure he’s not joking. But he’s really staring at the flower intently. 

“What?”

“Look closely under it,” His assistant replies. Jaehyun turns it over and he’s surprised to see that there really is handwriting on it. It’s two words that seem to trail off into another sentence. And that’s when it dawns on him. He’s supposed to unfold them. There’s a note inside.

“Shit,” Eric curses again. He glances at his phone. “The investors are back. I might as well dig my grave. I think they hate me. What if they murder me instead? Shi–” And he’s rushing out the door just like time.

Jaehyun only spares him a glance as he’s now studying the flower. That must mean that the other two have notes in them. Holding his breath, he reaches for the white magnolia. And as if it were made of glass, his fingers cautiously pry the intricate folds of the paper apart. Just as he’s suspected, there’s writing in it. And it isn’t just a single sentence. There are multiple, all in Jacob’s adorable handwriting.

Once the flower is all unfolded into a flat piece of paper, he peers closer to read the words.

I’m not sure how much I can fit in this tiny piece of paper. But, Jaehyun, if you’re reading this, I want you to know that I love your smile and laugh. Your smile is so bright like the sun in the sky. Your laugh is adorable and loud but that’s why I adore it (the customers of this quiet cafe probably don’t >_<). I also love how you make me smile and laugh. 

– Jacob

Jaehyun sort of wants to cry now. After all this time of these flowers sitting here, there was a small note on them and he had no idea. He finds himself reading the words over and over again, a foolish smile on his face. Immediately, he’s reaching for the next flower, almost knocking down his glass pen holder.

Just like before, he unwraps it like a cute present. The pink paper also reveals more writing.

Everyone has secrets. But, I’ll tell you five. 

1. I secretly love when you buy me flowers. 
2. I secretly love when you take me out on those flower dates. 
3. I secretly love your hugs. 
4. I secretly love your constant "I like you"s.
5. I secretly love everything about you.

– Jacob

Now Jaehyun’s resisting the need to squeal to himself.

“Everything about me?” He mutters to himself. And then he finds himself leaning his elbows on his desk, trying his best not to burst out into little giggles. He’s never taken Jacob to be such a flatterer. That’s when he realizes that there’s one more note.

Reaching for the yellow flower this time, he unwraps it. He’s still cautious with it, no matter how excited he is.

A yellow daffodil means new beginnings. This is my third favorite flower if you were wondering. And I'm sure that you haven’t been reading these since you're a little dense… which means I may have to tell you myself. Which I’m too shy to do but I guess I’ll manage. 

But, if you do finally figure it out Jaehyun, I want you to know that I like you too. 

You’ve become so important to me over time and I would love to talk this over with you soon.

– Jacob

Jaehyun runs over the words again and again, “I like you too” over and over again, his eyes scanning them throughout, wondering if maybe they’ll morph into a joke or disappear altogether. But those words stay there for as long as Jaehyun’s sitting there. 

Every single cliche expression in books just occurs to him at that moment. Butterflies fill his stomach. He’s head over heels. Completely smitten. His breath was entirely taken away.

And then he’s standing up and rushing out the door without notifying Eric of his whereabouts.

Jacob says goodbye to yet another customer. And again, the cafe is empty again. Oddly enough, it’s always empty with the occasional customer or… love interest dropping by. But Jacob can’t find himself to complain. Sometimes, he just likes to be left alone with his thoughts.

Up until he hears the doorbell ring. 

He looks up, about to repeat his usual mantra (accompanied by a completely faked smile) of, “Good afternoon! What would you like to–”

But it’s like a scratch of a CD. 

Right there in front of him, is an out-of-breath Jaehyun. He’s dressed in his usual suit, the tailored fit, making him look charming as usual. But Jacob notices his disheveled appearance by the way his hair is tousled and his cheeks red from the biting wind. He glances outside. It’s a perfectly sunny, non-windy day. Almost as if he’s run all the way here.

His eyes travel from his slightly undone tie to the bouquet of flowers grasped in his hands. Wrapped in white paper and tied by a pink ribbon, there are three varieties of flowers but he can’t quite tell what they are right now.

Jaehyun walks towards the counter. Beautiful as ever, handsome as ever, he gives Jacob the sweetest look. It isn’t a smile, per se, but it’s the softening of his eyes and the fluttering of his eyelashes as he prepares to say something.

Jacob looks at him in slight confusion. And then he’s looking down at the bouquet again.

The three flower types are… ah. White magnolias, pink tulips, and yellow daffodils.

He’s never verbally told Jaehyun that his third favorite flower is yellow daffodils. The only time that he’s mentioned them is on the– It suddenly dawns on him like a detective solving a case. 

“Did you… read them?” Jacob stares at Jaehyun hopefully. He truly hopes because it would be weird if Jaehyun just randomly guessed yellow daffodils when ordering this bouquet.

Jaehyun breathes out a “yes,” a shy smile growing on his lips. “I did.” 

Jacob finds his breath to be caught in his throat at the sheer way that Jaehyun looks at him. His eyebrows are soft, as opposed to the constant furrow of them when he’s in his office. And his eyes, his pretty, deer-like eyes, are looking right into Jacob’s, full of affection, realization, love, warmness, endearment–every synonym that he can think of.

“Oh good,” Jacob sighs in relief, setting the palms of his hands on the edge of the counter. His shoulders relax as he smiles up at Jaehyun. He doesn’t seem to notice the way Jaehyun’s gaze shifts from his eyes down to his lips. “Finally,” He laughs. “I was wondering when you would–”

He lets out a small yelp when he feels something grasp his collar. Jaehyun’s hand. And he’s being pulled across the counter where his lips meet something warm. Jaehyun’s lips. He’s incredibly delighted to find out just how warm and soft they are. Jacob scrambles to balance on the counter, one of his legs lifting up.

Jaehyun lets out a small “mmph” as he tilts his head. He also leans over the counter, his hands accidentally knocking down something metal that creates a loud clatter. But that seems to be drowned out in the way both of their eyes shut in contentment. Jacob’s hand comes up to Jaehyun’s jaw, cupping it softly as he starts to move his lips.

Jaehyun breathes deeply as his own lips move in unison.

Yes, yes, is all Jacob can think at the moment. He focuses on just how softly Jaehyun kisses him. There’s no force–well other than when he pulled him into the kiss in the first place–his movements are so gentle, as if he’s listening to what Jacob wants. If Jacob tugs at his bottom lip then he lets him. If he tilts his head further, Jaehyun follows. Everything about this is so perfect. The way they both are leaning over the counter, one of Jacob’s hands still holding onto Jaehyun’s jaw. His other hand is resting on the surface for balance but he can feel Jaehyun’s own hand curl around it warmly.

They kiss and kiss, forgetting each of their surroundings. Jacob begins to tilt his head up and Jaehyun easily complies, pressing his lips further whilst parting them slightly. Jacob manages to slip his tongue inside which makes Jaehyun groan with satisfaction, even parting his lips even more. Jacob feels his heart beat erratically and he finds that Jaehyun tastes sweet like caramel. Much to his liking. 

After a few more moments of tugging on each other’s lips and small, smacking sounds, they pull away. Their teeth bump with how they’ve started to smile fondly. Jaehyun hesitantly distances them, well not before he leans in to press another peck to his swollen lips.

Jacob feels like his heart just might explode. They’ve just kissed. A simple coffee shop barista and a high-end CEO. It’s such a different dynamic but Jacob’s come to love it all the same. 

His eyes travel from Jaehyun’s lips down to the counter where their hands had previously rested. It seems that Jaehyun’s put down the bouquet of flowers on the counter before pulling him into that kiss. Jacob’s brought back to that one day when Kevin had urged him to think of his happy place.

It’s almost identical. The flowers sitting, slightly tilted, on the counter in the very place where he works.

“So you’re my happy place,” He finally says, looking back up to Jaehyun who’s staring at him fondly. His chest is heaving up and down slightly like he’s still catching his breath.

“Am I?” Jaehyun replies, smiling beautifully. He looks so pretty like this with his cheeks red like roses and his eyes glossy like buttercup petals. Jacob needs to stop thinking about his lips which is impossible with how they look right now, bitten red and plush from the biting. And the fact that he’s had the chance to even feel them against his own.

Jacob nods with a shy expression.

“I’m glad,” Jaehyun whispers. “Those notes… I’m sorry that I took so long to realize.”

“It’s okay,” Jacob laughs. “I understand.”

“But I could’ve done this earlier,” Jaehyun groans. “God, you’re kissing is so– I feel weak right now.”

Jacob stifles a laugh.

“Your words were so sweet,” He says in wonder, looking at Jacob with stars in his eyes. “And I haven’t said this straight up to you yet but… I think I love you, Jacob.”

He widens his eyes slightly. Warmth blossoms from the deepest crevice in his heart, all the way to his cheeks and to the tips of his fingertips. He feels tingly all over, trying to bite back the smile that threatens to overspill on his lips.

“I know that all I’ve said are like, like, and like. But I’ve been in love with you for a long while,” Jaehyun continues. He looks at him with so much… love –Jacob can say that now–and it leaves him feeling like a sunflower in the brightest rays of sunlight.

Jacob feels like he might just melt into a puddle. But he doesn’t. It’s not humanely possible. But his mind turns to putty instead–also not humanely possible. The only four words that he can manage out are,

“I love you too.” 

It gets the message perfectly across. Jaehyun gazes at him like he’s personally designed the moon, hung it in the sky, and decorated the sky with beautiful stars.

“Jacob, you’re so perfect,” He says again. Jacob smiles, shaking his head. 

“We’re so different and…”

“Please don’t think that our difference bothers me.” Jaehyun’s eyes soften.

“No, I–” Jacob sighs. “Initially, I did. But now, I realize that it’s perfect. Just perfect. That we compliment each other well.” It’s taken him a while to realize so, but the more he’s spent time with Jaehyun, the more easily it’s come to him. Jaehyun who’s constantly burnt out from work, needs someone like him to rekindle the flame. Jaehyun’s always needed him, even implementing parts of Jacob in every corner of his life: the flowers in his office, the vase that Jaehyun once mentioned that he bought for his decoration-less home, and the constant texts asking him what tie looks better.

Jaehyun smiles warmly. “Of course. If you ever feel out of place, just tell me. I would do anything for you.”

Jacob chuckles, his cheeks flaming pink. Jaehyun watches silently. And then he–

“Can I kiss you again?”

Jacob holds his breath for a second, observing the endearing way that Jaehyun gazes at him with so much want and love –Jacob cannot believe he can actually say this now–in his eyes. Jaehyun leans over the counter, his lips slightly pouted as if to silently tell him to just kiss me.

“Yes,” He finally breathes out, answering both his question and his puppy-like eyes. “Kiss me.”

But Jaehyun doesn’t. Instead, he looks down at the counter with a scowl.

“This is in the way,” He grumbles. “I want to hold you.”

Jacob’s eyes crinkle at that. “Then I’ll go to you.” He turns on his heel, about to head to the gate so that he can meet him outside the cash register. 

“No,” Jaehyun interrupts. “I’ll come to you.” Jacob’s met with an adorably determined expression. With fast-paced movements, Jaehyun makes his way around the counter. The gate’s always been quite heavy for Jacob so he marvels at the way Jaehyun lifts it up like it weighs nothing. 

He approaches Jacob–in the midst of espresso machines and milk frothers–and his hand comes around his waist, pulling him in. Every line of their body is touching now, their shoes bumping together, chests brushing against each other.

Jacob gives him a shy laugh as he looks up to Jaehyun who’s gazing back with dark, needy eyes. His smile falters, an intense embarrassment just overtaking the barista’s whole body at the way Jaehyun’s pretty hand splays across his waist so easily, holding him steady and right up against his body.

“Jaehyun…” He whispers.

“Jacob.” He glances at his name tag just like had done on the second day they’d interacted. “I love you so much,” Jaehyun utters before leaning in to kiss him once again. 

And this one is not heated or in other words— sexy— but it’s different. Without a counter to lean over, they can just touch, touch, and touch. Jacob’s hand wanders back to cup Jaehyun’s jaw, reveling in the warmth and the movement–tightening and rotation–of it as his lips move fervently. With the small wet sounds and the biting of each other’s bottom lip, Jaehyun moans silently as his hand blindly finds Jacob’s other hand, intertwining the fingers and holding it close to his chest, letting him feel his pounding heartbeat that mirrors Jacob’s own.

Kissing like they mean it, Jaehyun constantly tightens his hold around his waist and on his hand. Even though every single area of their body is already touching, Jaehyun seems to want more as he tilts his head and pulls him so close that their hips are brushing against each other.

At some point, Jacob’s lips start to feel sore so he pulls away briefly. He leans his forehead against Jaehyun’s, his breath heaving and eyes closed with being so overwhelmed. In a good way, of course. 

But it seems that Jaehyun’s isn’t easily satiated as he’s quickly leaning in with even more ardor. He kisses Jacob so hard that he’s walking backward until his back hits the edge of the counter. The wood of it juts into his lower back as he tilts his head upwards so that Jaehyun can slip his tongue in. Now that Jacob’s thinking about it, this counter’s seen a lot over the past few months.

Jaehyun’s hands begin to wander, rubbing all over his waist and his back. Jacob doesn’t even realize that he’s practically whining into his touch, trying to catch up with the intense movement of his lips. Okay, so maybe the kiss did turn sexy. Jacob comes to that conclusion when Jaehyun mouths down the side of his face, all along his jawline, and then to the side of his neck. It baffles him just how easily he finds the sensitive spot that Jacob’s only dreamed of Jaehyun kissing.

And now he is, pressing kiss after kiss, his tongue lapping at the skin repeatedly. Jacob whines again. Since when was he a whiner? 

“I love you,” Jaehyun whispers against his skin, his voice raspy and low.

Jacob only tilts his head more, biting his lip, his hands gripping somewhere onto Jaehyun’s arm–he’s not sure where. The sensation of his lips on his neck sends shivers all the way down his spine as he bites back another whine. 

When he peeks his eye open that’s when it registers to him that they are doing this, in a coffee shop, right in front of the menu and behind the cash register. With a gasp, Jacob’s grip on his bicep–he now realizes–tightens and he gently urges Jaehyun away.

When he looks down to where Jaehyun’s lips are red, slicked, and swollen, and then up to his eyebrows which are furrowed adorably with concentration, Jacob can’t help but let out a laugh. And his eyes, bright and sparkly, their gaze focused on that spot on his neck that’s probably turning red right now.

Jacob’s heartbeat is racing, pounding in his chest as he watches Jaehyun straighten up and adjust his tie. He clears his throat and Jacob smiles when he sees that he’s blushing endearingly as if he didn’t just kiss the living daylights out of him.

“I’m sorry.” Jaehyun leans in to press just one simple kiss to the top of his forehead. “I think I got a bit carried away.”

Jacob snorts. “You’re lucky we didn’t get caught by my manager. Or anyone really.”

Jaehyun flushes even more. “It’s just that you’re so perfect. You smell amazing and your lips and skin are so… soft.”

“I probably smell like coffee beans.”

“All the same.” Jaehyun grins. 

Jacob’s eyes crinkle and he leans forward to pull him into a hug. “You’re so corny.” Jaehyun laughs, leaning into the embrace that they’ve grown to make a daily habit at this point.

“Did you like it?”

“Like what?” He pulls away.

Jaehyun looks at him nervously. “The neck… kissing. It’s my first time doing so.”

Jacob gawks at him. “First time?” Not when it left him feeling a little bit… weird down there.

Jaehyun nods, with complete innocence.

Jacob’s cheeks feel hot now. “It– It felt nice, I guess.”

Jaehyun’s smile grows, leaning in to press another kiss on that same spot that’s starting to feel a little bit tender. When Jacob gasps quietly, Jaehyun chuckles against his skin. 

“You liked it.”

“Shut up,” Jacob grumbles, surging forward to hide his face in his chest again. 

Jaehyun laughs loudly at that, wrapping his arms around him warmly. In a coffee shop, there’s a simple barista who loves flowers and a not-so-simple CEO of an honorable company. Maybe they’ve fallen in love over time. It doesn’t matter where it's done or who stumbled first. Instead, they just embrace each other with the accompanying fleeting kisses in between.

“You’re my happy place too, Jacob.”

“It’s free,” Jacob states, shoving the bouquet of flowers in his best friend’s hands. The flowers are bright, much like his personality.

Kevin stares at him with suspicion. “Why’s it free?”

Jacob eyes him, trying to conceal the urgency behind his expression. He gives him a pained smile. “Because you’re my best friend, obviously.” He wipes his hands on his apron. It’s a different apron this time. It’s a light beige this time, as opposed to the darker tan because yes, he did get the job. Eventually.

After a few months of dating Jaehyun, he had suddenly gotten a call from the florist shop that they were hiring. Simply put, he took the job as fast as a bird would fly in the summer sky. Jacob had never been happier. And it seems that Jaehyun was equally happy for him. They spent the rest of the day cuddling and kissing until Jacob complained that he was getting too warm. Jaehyun’s body has always been warm. It’s almost strangely so much that Jacob has to constantly question if he’s running a fever. 

Though now that it’s winter, Jaehyun serves as a great heater. They live separately, but it’s often that Jaehyun crashes at his place, especially after a hard day at work. Jacob’s learned to cook better and Jaehyun always praises him, even through his struggling, burnt attempts. 

Jaehyun has clothes at his place and a toothbrush. He has his own pillow on the bed where they sleep and sometimes– always– kiss in the morning. It’s often that Jaehyun rolls on top of him at seven in the morning, caging him under his arms with his messy, fluffy hair falling over his forehead as he leans in to crash his lips against Jacob even though he’s barely woken up. Jaehyun’s a great alarm. Almost too good of an alarm. An alarm that leaves his lips so swollen and red that his manager even noticed.

Jaehyun’s still the CEO, meaning that work is still demanding. But Jacob often visits during his breaks to cheer him up, bringing him a coffee that he has to buy now rather than deliver. And whenever they’re truly alone in their office, sometimes they do press up against each other on the couch and kiss and kiss and kiss. Jaehyun often walks into meetings with a loose tie and crumpled collar.

Eric’s been promoted from assistant to chief operating officer and Jacob frequently walks in on him constantly complaining about those “damn investors.” He says that there’s one that he particularly hates: Sunwoo. Apparently, he’s not old or “crabby” like the others. They’re the same age and they once got stuck in a closet together. Eric claims that he hates him, but Jacob can see otherwise with how he’s always blushing over his name.

“Bullshit.” Kevin gives him a glare, breaking Jacob out of his thoughts. But his scowl easily grows into a knowing smile. “You just want to get me out as soon as possible, don’t you?”

“What?” Jacob gulps.

“You’re expecting someone.”

“I am not. But you should leave. It’s free. Take the opportunity,” Jacob places his hand on his hip.

Kevin laughs and shrugs. He does take the opportunity as he bounds out the door. Jacob sighs, looking around the place. It’s beautiful, with flowers everywhere which he can just play around with. Well, mostly his job is to sell or arrange them, but he’s come to adore each of them, taking care of them like it’s his life duty.

When he looks out the window, he sees a man crossing the street. It’s snowing and he worries that he might catch a cold. The flurries fall from the sky like powdered sugar on cookies. Jacob’s the best at making cookies. Jaehyun’s still dressed in those tailored suits, but Jacob’s proud to see beyond that. He’s seen him in other tops. Simple t-shirts that hug his shoulders and chest obscenely, the pretty buttoned shirts he would wear when they go on dates, and… the particular one where he doesn’t wear anything at all.

Once. Only once he witnessed it. It was a fun evening. He coughs.

So maybe Jacob is expecting someone. He watches with fond eyes at the way he jogs over to the door, opening it with the bell that rings a pretty tune.

“Cobie,” He breathes out. He approaches the counter. This one is lower than the coffee shop’s. Sometimes it’s a little too low for Jacob’s back. But at least it makes it easier to kiss him over it. Jacob can see small white specks in his hair, more visible now that his hair is a pretty, dark brunette, rather than the golden blonde from before. Jacob loves the color of it, often telling him he looks like a prince which Jaehyun always blushes endearingly in response.

“How’s work?” Jacob asks, noticing the way Jaehyun gazes at him with so much love. That’s never changed for the many months that they’ve known each other.

“Same old,” Jaehyun sighs. “I couldn’t wait to see you. I have an extended break today.”

“Oh, do you? And what do you plan to do with it?” Jacob smiles. His hand inches down the counter so that Jaehyun can grab hold of it and swing it around with a shy smile. It’s been months yet they still get all giggly around each other.

“Kiss you.”

“Then what’re you waiting for?” Jacob grins. 

And just like he’s done a few months ago, his hands grasp onto Jacob’s collar and he pulls him in. The both of them lean over the counter, kissing so, so sweet that Jacob’s sure that his mouth is going to taste like candy after this. Both of their eyes are shut, a content tug on their lips that grows into a full-blown, love-filled smile.

When they pull away, Jaehyun laughs shyly. 

“Jacob, this is never enough.”

“Then come here.”

And right before he passes through the gate, Jacob sees him grab hold of a few flowers that are on display. Hurriedly, he approaches Jacob with a smug smile, hooking an arm around his waist. Jacob stares back at him in confusion.

That’s when Jacob notices that the flowers he’s holding are… pink tulips. Pink tulips are the most special of all. Jacob’s first mentioned favorite flower and the ones that Jaehyun had posed in front of on their first date. The picture that he’s taken is pinned up somewhere on the bulletin board of this flower shop. He remembers the one time that Jaehyun had confessed his own favorite flower. White lilacs. 

“What are the flowers for?”

“A customer’s coming.”

“Oh.” Jacob begins to panic. “Then we can’t kiss right no–”

“Yes we can,” He cheekily replies. And then he’s pulling Jacob against his lips. And in the corner of his eye, Jacob can see Jaehyun holding up the flowers, covering their faces from any peering eyes.

“You’re crazy,” He whispers against his bottom lip.

“Shhh, my love.” 

And then he brings the flowers closer to their faces so that they can kiss again. And that’s when Jacob recalls the reason for Jaehyun’s favorite flower being white lilacs.

He said that they’re his favorite not for the meaning, but simply because it compliments well with pink tulips.

Jacob’s heart thumps and thumps.