Weeks later...
My hand had finally healed. My boss offered me the cashier spot full-time now that she hired extra help, but I asked to be reassigned as a barista. I'd rather brew coffee than deal with creeps.
While steaming milk for a customer, the cashier leaned in and whispered, "Isn't that guy from The Trinity?"
I glanced over and immediately recognized Jungkook, casually masked, waiting in line.
"Hey," I greeted. "Come over here so no one sees you."
He stepped to the counter, lowering his voice. "Jin Hyung's outside. We've got a shoot soon—he asked me to pick up some pastries and coffee."
"Give me the list. I'll bring it to the car so you won't wait around."
"You sure? I can wait."
"It's fine. I know which car is Jin's."
He handed over the cash with a shy bow. "Thank you, noona."
I passed the order to the cashier, but she was still gawking. "Do you know him?"
"No," I lied. "Just remember—three Iced Americanos, two cookies, and a biscotti."
She packed the sweets extra carefully, even adding a cheerful sticky note.
I finished the drinks, then motioned her to follow me. Outside, I spotted Jin's car and walked over. The back window lowered, and there he was.
"Didn't know you were inside, Suga." I smiled, handing him the drinks.
"We've got a full day of filming," he said, taking the cups.
"Busy day. Hey, everyone." I gave a quick wave. "Alright, off you go before someone blames me for a delay."
"If you keep talking, we might," Yoon-gi teased.
"Okay, smarty pants. Shoo. Drive safe."
I turned away, pulling the staff member with me. She was frozen, eyes wide.
"You know them?" she gasped. "You were so casual—are you close?"
"They're regulars," I said flatly, shutting down the conversation.
The rest of my shift passed in silence. I hated questions that might put them at risk.
What I had with Yoon-gi—if anything—had to stay in the shadows. Our friendship felt easy, laced with teasing and comfort. But that night, when I saw him walking out of that high-rise with a smile on his pale face, I felt something dangerous stir in me.
It was subtle. A flutter. A quiet ache.
And I knew—this can't happen.
Falling for him? It would be reckless. Risky. Maybe even ruinous.