KWON CHAERIN

Ever since that day when he attempted suicide, things have been awkward between us. The struggles to build back our warm and loving relationship was tangible. Things that supposed to be normal for us ― skinship ― became really weird. Hugs from him used to be really warm and his embrace was my favourite place, yet nowadays, I feel rather empty and cold than warm; it was like a forced action. Even his signature smile had morphed into awkward ones.

I'm afraid things between us could not go back to normal, and the worst outcome of a relationship might finally dawned upon us ― an ending ― if things did not get any better.

Those events really damaged my health and mood, I've been stressing a lot lately which also affected my appetite. Even cleaning the shop window became a heavy task for me. I left stains here and there. The more they exist, the more life lessons I'd receive from Yoongi.

"Are you cleaning as a twenty-two years old Chaerin or maybe a soul of five years old had taken your body because I see no difference. Chaerin, you're not cleaning anything like that." Speaking of the devil. I turned to him just to see disapproving look evident on his face, hands were folded across his chest.

I put the cloth back into the bucket and looked down. "I ― I'm sorry," I apologized, twiddling with my fingers.

There was a brief silence laced in the atmosphere before a sigh was heard. "What happened? You know you can always tell me, don't push yourself too hard," Yoongi said as his footsteps were coming closer. He patted my shoulder which made my head shot up in disbelief, staring at how concerned his eyes were.

"N ― no! Everything is just fin ―"

"You're not a good liar, Chaerin. You stuttered a lot which does not suit the usually savage and chirpy you. Now, why don't we talk about your problems while drinking late afternoon tea? Since there are customers right now. Besides, that look of yours can shoo the customers, so it's the best for you to stop working for today," he suggested while rubbing dark circles under my eyes with his thumb. "You look pale and unattractive." He smirked.

The first few sentences really made me soft, yet when he uttered the last one, my hand reflexively gave a smack on arm. "You rude!" I laughed and he returned a chuckle.

Afterwards Yoongi went to prepare the tea while I randomly took a seat on a chair nearby, waiting him to serve the tea. It feels so weird, having my employer to serve me instead of the reversed version. But I guess that's just one of perks working with Yoongi.

He came with a tray and placed it on the table in between us, taking a seat opposite from me. I took the tea cup and blew the steam before taking a sip of it. "Taehyung attempted a suicide," I began as I placed the cup on my lap, staring sadly at my reflection.

I lifted my head and saw Yoongi tensed a little bit at the fact that I blurted. "Then what happened?" He asked after a few moments of probably trying to process his thoughts.

"I awoke in the right moment and failed the attempt. But Yoongi, I'm really scared. . . What if he repeat that again in future? What if I was not there for him? He could've died," I explained in murmurs, hands were trembling because of the way too deep topic. Just by mentioning it, the horrifying possible scenarios flashed in my head again.

Yoongi pushed the table with his arms to create a space for him to stand up. He went to my side and crouched beside me, holding my trembling hands as the other one patted my back. "It must be really hard for you. I'm in no position to say this, but I think in your situation, it's the best to not have negative thoughts. Don't you ever be so paranoid about what could've happened while in fact it did not happen, and that's the only you should think of. It did not happen because it's not supposed to happen, take a note of that," he advised which I gladly took in with my nods. My eyes were glistened by the water that almost fell from my eyes.

"Thank you so much, Yoongi," I spoke, a little bit shaky.

He just nodded and smiled at me. "No need. It's already an employer's job to take care of his worker. After all, your health condition is essential and can affect your job," he answered.

He told me to just chill and relax while enjoying the tea, so I did. Yoongi had left to take a nap at the staff room. Me here was enjoying the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with no customers lurking around the cafe.

But that moment was interrupted when the shop bells rang.

I stood up from my seat and peered to the entrance, getting ready to serve whoever just came into the cafe, plastering the brightest smile I could ever pull out.

"Welcome! How can I help y ― Taehyung?!"