The next morning, Min opened the shop early. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of dew clinging to the petals. He arranged roses at the counter, humming softly as he worked.
Kei entered a little later, carrying a tray with two cups of tea. He placed one near Min without a word.
Min looked up, surprised. "You made tea?"
Kei shrugged. "You forget to drink water when you're busy. Tea is better."
A small laugh escaped Min's lips. "You're starting to sound like you know me too well."
"I do," Kei replied simply, taking a sip from his own cup.
Min's heart skipped, though he hid it by focusing on the roses. Still, the warmth of the tea seeped into his fingers, and he couldn't stop the quiet smile tugging at his lips.
The calm morning was interrupted when Airi burst through the door, panting slightly.
"Hey—did you two see anyone outside just now?" she asked, her eyes scanning the shop.
Min blinked. "No, why?"
"I thought I saw someone standing across the street, staring this way," she said, frowning. "But when I looked again, they were gone."
Kei's expression darkened instantly. He set down his cup, his shoulders tensing.
"You think it was him?" Min asked, his voice a little shaky.
"I don't think," Kei said flatly. "I know."
Airi crossed her arms. "Creepy guy or not, Min, you should be careful. Don't go out alone."
Min's chest tightened. The idea of someone watching the shop unsettled him more than he wanted to admit.
Seeing his unease, Kei stepped closer, his presence steadying like an anchor. "He won't touch you," Kei said firmly. "Not while I'm here."
Min's gaze flickered to him, catching the seriousness in his eyes. For a moment, the fear dulled, replaced by something warmer—a quiet reassurance that wrapped around him like a blanket.
"Thank you," Min whispered.
Kei's lips curved faintly. "You don't have to thank me. Just… trust me."
The three of them lingered in the shop, the silence heavy but not unbearable. Outside, the street looked empty, yet a shadow seemed to cling to the edges of their peace.
To be continued...