#cafe fic

The rain pattered against the shop's window. Raindrops racing down to the ground, the water streaks glistening from the lights.

There you stood bored out of your mind. A graveyard shift was always a hit or miss especially with Gotham's long nights. Especially by yourself for the shift since your coworker had an emergency. You looked around from the counter, there were barely any customers. Around this time most people take their purchases to go. Honestly smart, Gotham has always been unpredictable.

Sighing, you grabbed your coffee that you had made earlier. The rain always seems to make you sleepy, and being on a never ending shift. You needed this booster. As soon as you were about to take a sip. Someone walked into the cafe,the door bell ringing announcing their presence. You put your drink on the counter “ hello welcome in”.

The person walked up to the counter. Then you recognized those winter sky eyes, with dark raven hair.Tim Drake, a recent regular that has been coming to the cafe recently. Though you don't think he even knew your name,he always looks like he's in a daze buried with work.

“Hello, just a large flat white please” his voice carried.

“Sure thing that's going to be $3.75, for here or to go?” you knew he always did a to go order. So you were about to click on the to go option, but he surprised you with “for here,this place is open for 24 hours right?”

“Yes this place is open for 24 hours” you smiled while clicking on the for here option.As soon the machine read the information, Tim handed you the payment for his beverage.“Take a seat wherever you would like” you smiled before turning towards the coffee machines.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

Tim was tired,but when wasn't he. Recently he's been slacking off at school work. So that leads to present time of cramming in missing assignments. He would've been doing it in his room. Though Alfred has suggested a change of scenery.

Tim knew that was bogus, he knew that Alfred knew that he would get distracted with crime files.He put a hand on his mouth while he yawned.While looking at the bright blue screen

Suddenly a mug was placed on the surface of the table he occupied.He looked up from the screen to thank the barista.

When suddenly he was pulled in by the most beautiful eyes he had seen. He must've been staring at the barista too long before he heard her beautiful symphony voice snap him back into reality.

*I will be right with you sir” her eyes glazed towards the front counter.Then her glaze went back to him.

“You're flat white, enjoy “

Tim quickly found his voice,” thank you”. She nodded and left to help the other customer.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

Already your guts were telling you something was off with this new customer. His whole body language was off, fidgeting and muttering to himself.

Also who wears sunglasses at 3:25 am?!?!

Perhaps the guy had a disability you tried hard to not judge.Until the conversation began,

“Hello, welcome,what can I get you this rainy morning?” you started with your scripted opening.

“Small black coffee” his voice was low and rough. You nodded “ anything else?” the man started to mutter, “I'm sorry?” You couldn't hear a thing this man said.

“I said you're very pretty” the man grumbled, you stalled for a second. Great it was one of those customers,just your luck that you were by yourself. Other than the Tim Drake that looks like he was burning from his laptop as screen.

You recovered quickly, “ so I take it that is all?” The man grumbled.

“Yes”

You told him his price and before you asked if he was to go or for here ,he interrupted.

“So pretty lady,when do you get off?”

You crossed your arms against your stomach. “I'm afraid I can't tell you that sir” your voice spoke with sternness.

“Well I just wanna keep you company*, he laughed “you're here by yourself aren't you?”

You could feel your body twist with nerves and your hair stand up. You can't show this man that he soaked nerves in your blood stream. “I see, though I am not alone so thanks but no thanks” you calmly said.

The man laughed again “ you're bluffing, now little lady clearly your alone”

You were about to respond but another voice interrupted. You were tired of being interrupted but this voice was familiar.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

“She actually got company already sir” Tim felt his voice announce his presence. Tim has been observing the whole interaction,ever since the night creep had walked in. He knew something was off with the guy.

“Yeah,and who are you?” The man turned to face Tim. His legs moved on their own, Tim didn't even realize he was standing in front of the man.He was sure he hadn't commanded whatever words came out of his mouth next.

“She's actually my girlfriend, so I would appreciate it if you leave now” his voice carried with a threatening feeling.The man just grumbled and walked out.

“Are you alright?” Tim asked once the man walked out of view. The barista still stood by the counter, though Tim noticed that she had inched a little closer to his side from behind the counter.

She nodded “ yeah” she coughed “ thanks for that” her voice was soft and delicate.

Tim smiled and glanced out the store windows.

That man was still lurking, definitely not safe at all. He would have to let anyone on patrol to come and get the guy. Though in the mean time,

“So you live close by?” Flowed out of his very own mouth. Great way to go Timothy ask the poor lady a creepy question after dealing with a creep. Tim mentally facepalmed.

“Are you asking where I live?” the barista raised a confused eyebrow “after that weirdo situation?” she deadpan.

Yeah not the smartest move for Tim. He rubbed the back of his neck,” it sounded way better in my head” he admitted sheepishly while looking away.

Suddenly he heard laughter from you.

“I'm sorry it's just this the first actual conversation between us” she tried to muffle her laughter. “And that's the first thing you come up with!” She bursted into laughter again.

Tim could only smile with embarrassment, because he totally made a fool out of himself. Eventually she calmed down. “So why do you want to know?”

Tim turned his gaze towards her again “I just want to make sure you're safe” her eyes narrowed a little. “Why?” Tim knew why,he just didn't want to give you more of a scare. His mouth once again spoke without thinking “well you're beautiful and I've been here plenty of times and I thought maybe we could be friends?”

Dammit his mouth really couldn't make anything easier can it.She just hummed, clearly she was facing her own thinking.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

You didn't know what to expect from Tim Drake. There is a high chance of you being more safe with him,even if he seems like a total dork right now.You thought to yourself the pros and cons. You sighed “I don't need a personal body guard”

In reality you hated being seen as valuable. Were you sensitive at times,yes. Though that doesn't mean you wouldn't do something back with tears in your eyes. “I know, just see this as a friend's meeting for the first time” he gave a half smile.”I've been to this cafe plenty of times and we could be friends?”

You knew that this was the best possibility, a creep from earlier just doesn't give up so easily. You smiled “I get off in one hour, you don't have anywhere to be ?” Tim just shook his head sideways.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

You grabbed your belongings from the staff room. Then you met Tim Drake at the front doors.”Ready?” you just lifted your bag,he nodded.” Alright lead the way captain” you couldn't help the small laugh that broke through.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

“So if a troll was under a bridge would you go around or answer its riddle? “ Tim suddenly asked, catching you off guard. It has only been two minutes since you both began walking. “What?” You questioned while making eye contact with him.

He just smiled and rubbed the back of his neck” what it's a serious question”. You could only smile and shake your head “ you know normal people ask others about their favorite color or favorite food” you could hear him huff in defense.

“Well it depends,” you answered anyway to his bizarre question. He hummed “how so?”

“Well if the troll is dumb, I would go around it” you thought carefully “and if the riddle is easy then I would answer it,you know” you felt your gaze moved towards Tim for approval. He nodded, “not bad I suppose” he muttered the last part.

“Hey you asked “ you defend yourself, suddenly he laughed “yeah but I didn't expect you to actually answer”. You could look away and nod your head.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

“Fine my turn for a random question” you declared. Tim nodded his head, his gaze set on you. “Ask away” he was prepared for this. Tim honestly had no idea that he would be enjoying his time with you. You were amazing and the stress once on his shoulders faded away when you spoke. How come he hadn't made conversation with you sooner, he regrets it dearly. That is why he's trying to make up for the last time for now.

“Favorite hero or vigilante?” Your voice questioned. That was easy for Tim,”easy Batman “ he replied smugly. Only he wasn't prepared for your response.

“Batman, that's so basic” your eyebrow raised. Tim tried not to be offended but apparently he didn't do a good job at it.

” I mean everyone in Gotham always says that,I mean he is a good guy and very amazing.” Tim noticed you were starting to ramble.” and he does so much ,but their is other vigilantes that deserve more spotlight to”

That piqued his interest “yeah like who?” you made direct eye contact “like Red Robin of course” you smiled. Tim coughed, caught off guard.

Your smile faltered “are you alright?” Tim could only nod, trying to stop coughing. “You sure?” you moved in closer to his space. “I- “ he covered his face “ yeah I'm okay” you stepped back a little, leaving Tim a little disappointed.

“Anyways this is my stop” you used a thumb gesture to an apartment building.

“Thank you Tim for walking me back,” you smiled.

“No need to thank me” Tim matched your smile.

Soon after Infinity you started walking towards the building. Before you turned back where Tim was still standing. “See you tomorrow?” Your voice was hesitant. Tim chuckled a little “you know it, gotta finish these papers”.

“Until tomorrow” you waved goodbye before walking into your building.

“Tomorrow” Tim whispered to himself before walking away with a warm feeling in his heart.

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁ㅤ ᵕ̈☕︎

Master-list

A/N: Thank you Radio by Bershy for giving me inspiration for this one-shot🤭 I recommend this song to everyone if it suits your taste.

At his question, your eyes slide up to the menu again. “Can I get an iced matcha with whipped cream?” The barista nods, inputting your order into the system as you slide your card in the slot to pay.

“A good choice, although not one I see this early in the morning usually,” he makes small talk. Usually, you dislike it, but somehow it feels natural with him.

“Not one I would usually make either, but I’ve been really into matcha lately.” There’s no one waiting behind you so you don’t really feel bad about continuing the conversation. The bari– Jaebeom, on his nametag, nods. “Matcha is delicious, although I am more of a coffee guy.”

“Sounds like you got a fitting job then,” you joke, pleased to see a wide grin split Jaebeom’s face.

“Believe it or not, I actually hate this job,” he laughs. “Sure I like coffee, but far too many people complain about the weirdest things. Here’s your drink.” As he slides your cup towards you, you thank him.

“I understand, I work in customer service as well, although not in food service for a while. Have a good day!” He nods in acknowledgement of your words and you make your way to a quiet table in the corner.

You came to the cafe to prepare for your finals and finish up a few projects, but you find that after barely two hours you’ve found yourself daydreaming about that barista. You blame the time of the day. If you came to the cafe in the evening, you would have had too much on your mind to care about how cute the barista is.

Yes, you are brilliant at focusing on one thing at a time.

You don’t really know how long you have been staring at your PDF with glossed over eyes, but when someone stands at your table and puts a plate down, you blink for the first time in a while and your eyes burn. You look up and to your right to see Jaebeom standing by your table, apron and all.

Jaebeom smiles down at you, eyes more gentle than before. “Lost in thought?” You can only nod, surprised at the “visit”. “I brought you a plate.”

You snort, looking at the plain, white, empty plate. “Thanks, but what is it for? I didn’t order anything.”

“I know. So what would you like to eat?” Jaebeom’s smile is lopsided and adorable. “I recommend the lemon pie.”

“I hate lemon pie. It’s a fucking disgrace.” You can’t help but laugh at how defeated Jaebeom looks.

“Please tell me you at least like mint choco?” You decide to refrain from hurting his feelings by saying that you have no strong opinion on it, and instead just nod.

“But seriously,” you quickly add, “I don’t need anything.”

Jaebeom snorts, an eyebrow (pierced, your heart screams) raised. “It has been three hours since you came in, and for the past hour, you have just been staring into space.”

Your mouth opens and closes, not unlike a very confused fish. He had been keeping an eye on you? “I–” You don’t even know what to say. Jaebeom laughs again.

“Tell you what,” Jaebeom starts, “I’ll surprise you with a dessert—not lemon pie, I promise—and if you don’t like it, I’ll pay for it.”

“Sure, sounds fair!” You feel like this might turn into a bad idea, but you never know, and you’re willing to take a chance with this cutie. Plus, there’s a chance for a free dessert! Jaebeom winks and turns and leaves to grab your surprise dessert. As you wait, you can’t help but let a smile creep up on your face. It definitely isn’t the usual start to your day, but you aren’t complaining. Jaebeom is cute.

When he returns, the dessert he chose is hidden in a bowl and a spatula covering it. “Close your eyes,” Jaebeom orders and you comply. You can hear clattering and your curiosity grows. “You can look now!”

The dessert in front of you looks absolutely divine. You can’t tell if it’s apple cobbler or apple cake, but you want to dig in immediately. A fork is procured by Jaebeom and you take it gratefully. “Thanks.” You remember your manners before you dig in. It’s a good thing that you did too, since as soon as the food enters your mouth you almost cry from how heavenly it tastes and all thoughts fly out of your head.

“Apple cinnamon cheesecake,” Jaebeom announces proudly. “Judging by the look on your face, you like it.”

You swear if you were in an anime, your eyes would be huge and sparkly. “I love it,” you emphasize, beaming up at him. “How much do I owe?”

Jaebeom laughs again, and you take a mental picture of the way his eyes scrunch up. “I’m glad,and there’s no need to pay,” he hums. You open your mouth to protest, but Jaebeom winks and all protests die on your tongue. Damn, he already winked before and yet you are still swooning. “I know it’s a little heavy for the morning, but it’s easily one of our best desserts…next to the lemon pie of course.”

You let your face morph into one of disgust. “Do not utter that evil dessert’s name in front of this heavenly one.” You know you sound a little silly, but it’s worth it, seeing Jaebeom’s adorable smile stay on his face.

“What is so bad about lemon pie anyway?” He sides into the seat opposite you and you try to refrain from letting your face show how pleased you are.

“Oh, my God, don’t get me started,” you roll your eyes hard enough that they could pop out of your head. “If I want toast with lemon marmalade, I can make that quick and easy. Lemon pie is just unnecessary, and much too bitter. Lemon is fine generally, but the numpty that puts it in the pie should be jailed. What even is the point of lemon pie? Who invented it? It looks amazing but it’s totally inedible. I’d much rather munch on lemon jello with ritz crackers than eat a lemon pie.”

Jaebeom laughs out loud, throwing his head back. “That was definitely an original way of describing your hatred. I, on the other hand, like lemon pie just fine. In fact, I make amazing lemon pie. I’ll have to make you some to convince you.”

You roll your eyes again. You are always serious about your lemon pie. “Sure you do. I will have to hold you to the highest standard when I judge your pies.” You don’t really know what else to say after that, but thankfully Jaebeom seems willing to keep this conversation going. You silently thank the gods that no other customer has entered the building yet.

“So, are you studying?” Jaebeom asks, nodding towards your laptop.

“Ah, unfortunately, yes,” you sigh dramatically. “As much as I wish I could just be watching cute cat videos, my finals are coming up and I have some projects to get done.”

Jaebeom hums. “That’s really neat, though. What is your field of focus?”

“Digital design,” you sigh, looking at your laptop screen. “I like it enough, but sometimes I just get so frustrated. But I’m almost finished with my degree, and I do enjoy it most of the time, so I will just stick through and see where it takes me.”

Jaebeom hums, tilting his head. “Well, that’s admirable. Digital design is super cool, lots of creativity goes into it. What made you pursue it?”

You hum, poking at your cake. “It’s basically a combination of all that I love. Art, computers, problem solving. All of that interests me. What about you?”

Jaebeom plants his elbows on the table. “Film and photography double major. A pain in the ass, but worth it.” He smiles again, still crooked. “Looks like we’re both focusing on the arts. So you’re in your last year? I graduate next year.”

“Yeah. Almost done with school.” You agree, and then the realisation hits you. “Oh, my God. I’m almost done with school.”

Jaebeom guffaws, head thrown back and teeth looking ready to pop out. “Well, good luck on your studies,” he winks, “and enjoy that cake. I need to go back to work or else my boss will kill me.”

You barely have time to nod and smile before he’s gone, back at the counter, and you have to go back to focusing on school. But, when another two hours have passed, your plates have been emptied and cleared (by a coworker, not Jaebeom you are sad to say), it is time for you to go. You cast one quick glance to the counter, but Jaebeom isn’t there, so you pack up and head out the door.

You don’t get very far, however, when you hear the door slam behind you again and footsteps run up to you. A hand on your shoulder spins you around and you come face to face with Jaebeom. “...Hi?” you stammer out.

“Canigiveyoumynumber?” Jaebeom rushes out, but he takes a deep breath and tries again. “Can I give you my number?” You gape like a fish.

“What? I mean, sure, but what?” Your speaking ability is astonishing right now, and Jaebeom smiles sheepishly.

“Yeah, sorry, it’s a little sudden. I meant to ask you before you left but I dropped a bunch of containers. I really owe my coworker the tips today.” Jaebeom laughs bashfully, rubbing the back of his neck, and you smile at his cute antics.

“Well, then, how could I let you return empty handed?” You say, pulling out your phone. “Plus, I’ll give you a chance to change my mind on lemon pie.”

Jaebeom beams, taking the phone you offered him and inputting his number. “I promise to do my best.” A pause. “I have to get back to work.” He looks so upset that you can’t help but to giggle.