Archive of Our Own

“Welcome to Dream Cafe! How may I help you?” 

“I’d like a ‘Floating Dream’” 

“A fresh choice for a fresh spring day! Coming right up!”

With that Jisung collected the payment for the order and turned back to the counter to prepare the drink. 

A pinch of freshly picked cloud, a drop of pegasus feather solution (3%), a teaspoon of fine sunstone powder. Such were the ingredients at Dream Cafe, where the beverages had a magical twist to them. Whether a client wanted a burst of strength or speed, water breathing for a deep dive, a green thumb or a spontaneous hair color change, this was the place to get them in the convenient and tasty form of a cup of coffee. There was no place alike. 

Once Jisung finished preparing the drink, he turned back and handed it to the customer, who took a quick sip as soon as he received it. As the name ‘Floating Dream’ hinted, this beverage caused levitation and the effect was instant. Said customer was in the air within seconds, floating in the coffee shop like an astronaut through space. They cheerfully thanked Jisung for the delicious and effective beverage and gracefully swam out. 

As that was the last customer in line, Jisung turned to the other barista working with him, “Do you have any sunstone powder left? Everyone’s been in a light mood today so I already ran out,” 

“Not much, but help yourself to whatever you need,” Minho answered while finishing his last order as well.

Aside from a colleague, Minho was Jisung’s closest friend, who he had known since his freshman year in high school. The two were lucky enough to study in the same college and work in the same place. Despite their different personalities, they grew close quickly, shared the same sense of humor, love for mischief and many interests, among which was the art of potion making.

While Jisung was collecting the ingredients he needed, he heard Minho call him out from behind, “Sungie, you have a customer,” he winked.

Jisung was about to ask what that expression was for, but the words got stuck in his throat once he glanced at the figure in front of the counter. 

There stood a tall handsome blond haired man, dressed casually with a black jacket and a plain white shirt underneath. This person, apart from a frequent customer of Dream Cafe, was Jisung’s little crush. Or, well, that’s how he defined it. In reality, his presence made Jisung stutter, his palms sweaty and his knees weak. Minho had insisted before that the more accurate way to describe it was “whipped” rather than just “crushing”, but Jisung remained in strong denial. 

As he walked up to the register, he took in all the little details of the man in front. His blond hair was casually resting over his shoulders, looking so soft as if it was made of silk. Jisung couldn't lie his way out of denying he hadn't thought multiple times of how it would feel to the touch. He noticed the customer was wearing faint makeup that complemented his features and the shiny lip gloss covering his lips made it hard not to steal a glance of them.

Jisung rapidly blinked a few times to stop himself from staring and greeted, “Hello and welcome to Dream Cafe! How may I help you?” 

While usually he greeted all his customers with a bright expression and cheerful tone, when it came to this one, he would become more quiet and look distracted. It was a natural response to being nervous and becoming overly self-conscious and, of course, his best friend wouldn’t miss a chance to tease him for it. 

“I’m not in a hurry today, so I’ll have something different. What do you recommend?” the customer asked. He usually ordered a Swift Step, which he needed to get to work on time because he would always leave too late. This made it easy for Jisung to autopilot through the process of making and serving the drink, since his mind was going haywire. But the game of life had chosen a higher difficulty for him that day. 

“Well, I uhm, uh-” Jisung’s mind was blank and could in no way properly answer the question thrown at him, so he turned to Minho in hopes he could somehow save him. Without saying anything his friend put up three fingers. “ Okay, so third drink on the menu”, Jisung understood. 

“In that case I can recommend the ‘Alyssa in Dreamland’- Wait, no, I mean ‘Ashley in Disneyland’- No, no! It’s-”

“‘Alice in Wonderland’,” Minho cut in, seeing how much Jisung was struggling.

“Yes, yes! Alice in Wonderland! How does that sound?” 

Without giving much reaction to how Jisung couldn't get the name right, he agreed to get that drink and the barista went to work.

Once he had turned away back to the counter where the drinks were prepared, Jisung made an excruciatingly painful expression from the cringe he was overwhelmed with. “Who the fuck is Ashley and what is she doing in Disneyland?” he thought. He knew this would make it into the sequence of cringe memories that would flash before his eyes while trying to go to sleep for the next 20 years.

‘Alice in Wonderland’ was a drink based on a potion that gave whoever consumed it a vivid lucid dream. Because potions related to dreams used obscure ingredients and were rarely ordered, Jisung didn't remember the recipe offhand so he flipped through the grimoire on the counter to look for the recipe. However, as he was flipping through the book, before he reached the recipe he was looking for, he found another that caught his eye - ‘Love at First Sight’.

A thought struck him.

While it wasn't illegal to serve a love potion in a coffee shop, there were strict rules for doing so - it was only allowed to be given to people who were already in a relationship, both needed to be present and agree that this is what they wanted. It was essentially used to mend and flourish existing relationships. This made sure that people wouldn't force others into relationships they didn't want. 

Of course, Jisung wasn't about to do that. Well, not exactly. 

The customer he was head over heels over had been on Jisung’s mind for at least a few months until that point, yet he didn't have the courage to strike up a casual conversation, let alone ask him out. So he figured he could add very minuscule qualities of the ingredients required for a love potion, so that the handsome customer would be interested enough to ask Jisung out. It would be a very mild effect that would wear off quickly. So it would only be mildly illegal. If Jisung could land just one date, he could easily take it from there himself! He just needed some help to get the ball rolling. 

He skimmed through the page and mentally made some calculations for the ingredients required to weaken the effect. 

Love at First Sight 

Effect : instant

200ml spring water (base)

2 teaspoons Gloxinia extract 7% solution 

½ teaspoon Cupid’s elixir 

2 tablespoons Rose quartz powder

NB 1 : the object of attraction is strictly the first person the subject lays eyes upon

NB 2 : the effect overlaps existing attraction to other objects of attraction

Jisung carefully added only a fraction of the listed ingredients to make sure he would achieve the desired effect. However, his hands shaking from the stress were making the measuring more difficult for him and it took him longer than usual to prepare the final drink. Minho noticed and went to check up on him, “Hey, what’s wrong?”

Jisung was startled hearing his friend behind him. He hadn't even noticed him approaching. He quickly shut the grimoire closed to make sure Minho wouldn't notice what recipe he was following and stuttered, “I- Nothing’s wrong! I just finished making it!” 

“Oh, okay! I’ll serve this then, you can sit back here,” Minho took the cup with the potion and turned around to give it to the waiting customer. Jisung assumed it was out of consideration that he looked uneasy being the reason he did that, but he had to be the one serving this drink. He pulled at Minho’s sleeve and tried to argue, but his friend kept insisting he can take care of it instead. 

Before Jisung could argue any further Minho had already handed the customer the drink. The man across happily took a whiff and a quick sip of his ordered beverage. 

Jisung had glued himself next to Minho, his breath still and his entire body completely stiff, waiting for the outcome of his concoction. 

After what felt like an eternity, but was in reality a second, the customer raised his head from the cup and smiled at Jisung, “This is really good! Thank you!” 

Jisung’s heart skipped a beat. It worked! His potion actually-

Then the customer turned to Minho, “I’ll be back to see you tomorrow again, handsome,” and winked at him.

Jisung’s jaw dropped to the floor and he could feel Minho next to him turn as still as a statue. Neither of them could take their eyes off the customer in front, while he himself didn't seem to mind their reactions and turned to leave after casually flirting with Minho.

Once the two were alone in the shop Minho finally asked in a low voice, “Jisung… what did you do?” 

Jisung ran a hand through his hair and kept staring at the ground as if counting tiles, “I- I just-”

He knew he had screwed up big time. It took him a few moments to be able to overcome the shock and collect his thoughts before explaining what happened to Minho.

“You put WHAT in that drink!?” Minho was furious.

“Look, I was just trying to help myself, okay? If I had handed him the drink everything would’ve been alright!”

“Oh, so now it’s my fault? I keep helping you around this guy, cause I can see your only two brain cells shut down when he’s here, and now I’m the bad guy?” 

Jisung instantly felt bad once he realized how his words sounded, “No, it’s not your fault! I’m sorry, alright?”

“And this aside, you do know what you just did is against the law, right? You could end up in jail for this! And what’s worse I could too! Because I was here and didn't stop you, so I might as well be an accomplice!” 

As any good friends have, they had talked about who would bail who out of jail multiple times. They had both come to the conclusion that Jisung was likelier of the two to end up in jail first so Minho would be the one who would bail him out. But they had never thought so far ahead as to what they would do if they both got dragged down. 

“Well, I hope you’re mentally prepared to dig a tunnel with a spoon for us to get out,” Jisung joked, trying to ease both their pain.

“I will shove that spoon up your ass,” Minho threatened. 

“Okay, look, the potion has much less ingredients, so it probably won't last long and the effect isn't that strong to begin with. I just wanted to get asked out on one date, which means all that should happen is he’ll come back tomorrow and ask you out and when you reject him he’ll probably quickly forget about it! It’s not that bad!” Jisung explained.

“Did you dilute the Gloxinia extract?” Minho asked.

Jisung looked at him in confusion, “No? Did I have to?”

After hearing that Jisung could tell well enough that what was written across his friend’s face was pure murderous intent, “How did you even get this job in the first place!?” he yelled, “The concentration of the extract controls how strong the attraction is! Even if you reduced the ingredients, that'll just reduce the time of effect, not the strength. It won't stop at just one date!” 

“Can't you just reject him and be done with it?”

“Tell me you’ve never made these potions without telling me…” Minho sighed.

Jisung realized he had made the potion wrong from the get-go. In truth, he wouldn't have minded if the potion had helped him even a bit beyond just a date. But now that his best friend had to deal with the consequences of his stupid decisions, he felt bad and wondered how he can help, “What if I made a hate potion?” 

“Jisung, for fuck’s sake, stop making your own potions on a whim or I will make you an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ so strong you’ll be seeing the Cheshire cat for a month,” Minho threatened again.

“Okay, then what are you going to do?” Jisung asked.

“I don’t know yet. I’ll figure it out once this Hyunjae guy comes in again tomorrow so I can see his state.”

“Hyunjin,” Jisung corrected, “But you’re going to reject him right?” 

The corner of Minho’s lips curled into a smirk, “Yeah, sure. But I might have some fun first.”

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽∞☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Jisung quickly found that Minho’s definition of fun was just about as close to his own definition of hell as things could get.

Hyunjin came into the shop the next day as predicted, his lips curved up into a cocky grin. Jisung thought he just might die upon seeing his crush like this but his heart palpitations were stopped when he realized that Hyunjin wasn’t paying any attention to him, his gaze instead trained on the barista behind Jisung. 

With a sigh Jisung turned around and looked at Minho, who was busy working on a customer’s order and hadn’t even noticed the attention he was getting. He turned back to Hyunjin and plastered a smile on his lips, trying hard to ignore the sinking feeling in his chest at the attention that his best friend was receiving. “Welcome to Dream Cafe. What can I get for you today?”

Hyunjin pursed his lips, seemingly in thought, before shrugging. “I was actually hoping I could get another recommendation,” he said.

“O-oh, another recommendation?” Jisung stuttered. He mentally cursed himself for not being able to form a single sentence around his crush. “Well, what do you-”

“But from him,” Hyunjin said quickly, cutting Jisung off as he pointed at Minho. “I want to know what he would recommend.”

Jisung felt his happiness leaving him like air leaves a balloon, deflating slowly but surely. “Sure, of course,” he told him, hoping that he didn’t sound as dejected as he felt.

He turned to tap Minho on the shoulder but found that his friend was already beside him with a small smirk playing on his lips. He raised an eyebrow at his friend and Jisung rolled his eyes in response - he hated it when Minho silently gloated. “Hyunjin wants a recommendation from you,” he grumbled, unable to keep the irritation out of his voice since he was speaking low enough that only Minho would hear him.

“Of course he does,” Minho responded happily. “Who wouldn’t want a recommendation from me?” Before Jisung could respond with something less than nice Minho had already turned his attention to Hyunjin. “So, you want a recommendation from the best barista at Dream Cafe?” he asked, a small grin playing on his lips.

Hyunjin laughed in response and nodded. “Well of course,” he answered smoothly. “It would be an honor to get a recommendation from you.”

Jisung wanted to disappear. He wanted to escape from the disaster of a situation that he had accidentally caused.

Minho brought a finger to his bottom lip and tapped as if he was deep in thought - Jisung didn’t miss the way Hyunjin’s gaze followed the motion. “How about ‘Eternal Sunshine’?”

Hyunjin’s brown eyes widened in awe and he nodded enthusiastically. “Sure, that sounds good.” He paused for a moment, brow furrowing as he seemed to realize something, before looking back up at Minho. “Uh, what does that one do?”

Minho laughed in response. “Makes you glow,” Minho explained. “It makes it look like you’re radiating sunshine.”

Hyunjin smiled brightly and nodded. “Yes, that sounds perfect!”

Jisung sighed in the background - he wouldn’t admit it, but he thought that Hyunjin already looked like he radiated sunshine and he just knew that his heart wouldn’t be able to survive once Hyunjin drank the potion.

“Is this your idea of fun?” Jisung asked his friend, raising an eyebrow as he did so. The wicked grin that spread across Minho’s lips was enough of an answer for him.

“Oh, c’mon, Jisung. I’m practically doing this for you.”

“You’re a true saint,” Jisung said flatly. 

“You’re lucky to be graced by my presence,” Minho responded solemnly as he finished making Hyunjin’s drink. He paid no mind to the way that Jisung rolled his eyes in response, turning to Hyunjin instead and offering him a smile as he gently pushed his to-go cup across the top of the counter. 

Hyunjin smiled back and Jisung wasn’t sure which emotion was rippling through him stronger; adoration or jealousy - he had never caught Hyunjin smiling at him like that. “Does it work immediately?” he asked Minho, his brown eyes wide with curiosity.

Minho nodded in response. “The effects will happen almost immediately after your first drink - that’s part of what makes it so much fun.”

Hyunjin hummed in response - a happy sound that Jisung couldn’t deny made his heart flutter a bit - before taking a sip of his drink. True to Minho’s words, the effect was almost immediate. A soft glow enveloped the boy and made it look like he was radiating soft beams of golden light. 

What happened next was something that Jisung couldn’t quite explain. Hyunjin laughed and smiled brightly at Minho, thanking him for suggesting such a wonderful drink and Jisung watched as Minho chuckled in response, something in his gut twisting in pain as he looked on.

“I look forward to your recommendation tomorrow,” Hyunjin told Minho with a wink. He waved at the barista as he walked out of the shop and hardly spared Jisung a second glance. 

Jisung loved his best friend, he really did, but as Minho turned to face him with a grin playing on his lips Jisung wanted nothing more than to throttle him. “Having fun?” he asked his friend stiffly, doing a poor job of hiding his irritation.

“A bit,” Minho admitted shamelessly. “But today did teach me something valuable.”

“That Hyunjin is gorgeous and you should have noticed him sooner?”

“No,” Minho said flatly, rolling his eyes. “That your disaster of a love potion isn’t as strong as I was afraid it might be. He is definitely going to be flirtatious for the next few days, maybe even a week I don’t know, but he’s still relatively himself.” He waited a moment for Jisung to respond but was met with silence. Minho sighed and placed a hand on Jisung’s shoulder. “This is a good thing, you know.”

“Sure, it’s great,” Jisung grumbled. “I get to watch you flirt with him for the next week. Everything about this is perfect.”

Minho chuckled softly and dropped his hand from his friend’s shoulder. “I’ll tone it down a bit, okay?”

Jisung wasn’t proud of his jealousy, but it was just something that he couldn’t seem to help. Watching his best friend flirt with his well-established crush was not doing Jisung any favors - especially not when, if things had gone to plan, it would have been him who was able to flirt with his crush.

“I should have just made myself a confidence potion,” Jisung groaned, running a hand through his hair. If he had gone the easier and slightly less illegal route then he probably would have saved himself a lot of pain. Jisung’s problem was that when it came to matters of love he was slightly hopeless, and when it came to interacting with any of his crushes his only two brain cells seemed to disappear - it was a rough life.

“I’m considering banning you from making any potions ever again,” Minho joked. “Maybe just stick to making the coffee, hm?”

Jisung stuck his tongue out in response but otherwise said nothing - he was starting to think that Minho just might have a good point.

Though Minho had promised that he would tone it down with the flirting, Jisung wasn’t convinced that his friend was doing that in the slightest. He wasn’t sure if he was being dramatic or if four days of watching Hyunjin waltz into the shop and flirt with his friend was getting to be too much, but banging his head against a wall was starting to sound like an appealing option.

“Welcome to Dream Cafe. I’m guessing you want a recommendation from Minho?” If there was one thing that seeing Hyunjin flirting with his best friend had done for him, it was make it easier to talk to his crush. At least before the failed love potion attempt Jisung had thought that he might have a chance. Now, seeing Hyunjin barely give him a second glance, Jisung felt a lot more comfortable speaking to him.

Hyunjin’s cheeks colored at Jisung’s comment and he nodded sheepishly. “That predictable, am I?” he asked quietly. 

Jisung couldn’t help but chuckle and he shook his head. “I’m just observant,” he joked weakly. While talking to Hyunjin might have gotten easier, watching as he got shy and nervous still made Jisung’s heart flutter just a bit.

Hyunjin nodded in response, his gaze turning thoughtful for just a moment. “You are,” he agreed. He leaned in closer and Jisung froze, eyes widening for a moment before Hyunjin pulled away again. “Jisung. You are very observant.”

His name tag, of course. Jisung exhaled slowly and gave Hyunjin a small smile in response as he turned to get Minho. It was the first time that Hyunjin had ever said his name, and Jisung had to admit that he liked the way it sounded. 

“You look dazed, Jisung,” Minho snickered as he turned to help Hyunjin find yet another drink. 

Jisung had to admit that he did feel a little dazed. He leaned against the back counter as he watched Hyunjin and Minho talk and once again felt that little pang of jealousy as the two laughed. Hyunjin threw his head back as he laughed at something that Minho said, and while Jisung enjoyed the sound of it he was surprised to realize that he also liked the sound of Minho’s laugh.

Minho was a lot more subtle than Hyunjin in his expressions, but whatever Hyunjin said managed to pull a startled laugh from Minho, the sound loud and bright. It dawned on Jisung that Minho’s surprised laughs were his favorite. He wasn’t sure what to do with the knowledge that he even had a favorite Minho laugh, but he decided not to dwell on it.

Jisung was so caught up in his own thoughts that he didn’t notice Hyunjin leave. He also didn’t hear Minho call his name. His friend waved a hand in front of his face and the motion was enough to bring Jisung out of his daze.

“Earth to Jisung. Did you hear a single word I just said?”

Jisung raised an eyebrow as he looked back at his best friend. “Minho, you know me better than anyone else. What do you think?”

Minho rolled his eyes in annoyance but Jisung knew him better than that; he recognized the small curve of his lips as a smile that he was trying to repress. “I said,” Minho said slowly, “that I think just flirting and waiting for the potion to wear off is going to take too long.”

“It’s going to take longer than a week?” Jisung gasped.

“This is what happens when you tamper with potions that you’re not used to making,” Minho countered, narrowing his eyes at his friend and gently poking Jisung’s chest with his index finger. “But yes, I think so. Unless we do something drastic.”

“We means you, doesn’t it?”

“It kind of has to, but yes.”

Jisung sighed and tried to brace himself for the worst. “Okay. What are you planning on doing?”

“I’m going to take him on a date.”

Jisung felt like the floor was slipping out from under him. “You’re going to WHAT?” he shouted.

“Jisung, please shut up,” Minho hissed, looking around at the few startled customers who had turned to look at Jisung. “You’re making people stare.”

“You want to take my crush on a date,” Jisung hissed in response. “How did you think I would react?”

“I don’t want to,” Minho countered, exasperated. “I just think that maybe if we go on a date and I’m a horrible date then maybe the spell will be broken, you know? It’s technically possible. Just trust me, okay?”

Jisung did trust Minho. It wasn’t something he would admit out loud, but he trusted his best friend with his life. However, that did not mean that he wanted to see his best friend going on a date with his crush. Jisung cursed himself for what felt like the hundredth time that week - curse him and his bright ideas. Jisung sighed and nodded. “Sure,” he said weakly. “Go on a date and break that curse!” 

And maybe , Jisung thought rather dramatically, break my heart in the process .

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽∞☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

On the day of the date the two had arranged to meet near the arranged place beforehand. Initially, Jisung hadn't wanted to be there and watch his crush flirt with his best friend, though a part of him wanted to see the spell broken with his own eyes. And while Minho was skeptical whether Jisung might make a scene out of jealousy, he figured out a way to include him in the plan. 

The idea was simple - once Hyunjin’s spell was broken after being disappointed with Minho and he left, he would encounter Jisung “by chance” and would realize how much nicer he is instead. While it sounded simple enough on paper, just the thought made Jisung’s stomach knot. He hadn't been able to do so much as hold a proper conversation with his crush so far, yet now he had to find the courage to “comfort” him. 

Once Jisung approached where they had agreed to meet, he saw Minho was already there waiting for him. But once he was in front of him and took a close look at him from head to toe, he was stunned. 

“What’s with the getup? I thought you were supposed to be a bad date?” he asked.

Minho clicked his tongue, “Just because I’m about to act like a clown to fix your mess, doesn't mean I need to look like one.”

He had a point. After all, Hyunjin would likely still come to their coffee shop and would still see Minho. He had to save some face if they were going to keep encountering each other. 

Before Jisung could say anything, Minho reached into his pocket and took out a small vial, “Here, to give you some courage.”

Jisung took it and didn't need to look at it to know what it was. Minho’s words were clear enough. It was a confidence potion.

“I’ve diluted a lot, so it would last a few hours at best. It’s just to clear your head when it’s your turn to step in, nothing too strong,” Minho explained.

“Oh- Thank you…” Jisung said in a low voice, shocked that after his concoction, Minho was still willing to let him rely on potions to help with his crush.

Not only that, looking at the vial, he realized how much Minho had done for him in the past few days. He never had to do any of this, he could have just rejected Hyunjin or remained indifferent until the potion wore off itself. But here he was, still being a wingman and making more openings for him. And now, he wanted to make sure Jisung showed his best side. It was true that they were friends, but even then, he couldn't understand why Minho was going to such great lengths for him. Why was he helping him so much!?

However, he didn't voice any of those thoughts.

“Let’s go and find ourselves separate seats before he arrives. We don't want him to see us arriving together,” Minho said.

Jisung nodded and the two left.

The place of the date was a small and cozy brunch restaurant. It wasn’t too busy, but there were enough people to make sure Jisung could blend into the rest of the customers without Hyunjin noticing him. He had joked about coming in with a mustache as a disguise, but Minho had only given him a death glare, indicating he didn't want to be seen entering with Jisung in such a ridiculous costume.

Not long after the two found their separate tables, the date in question also arrived.

From where Jisung was sitting he was facing Hyunjin’s back, so he could clearly see what was happening and he could hear some of their conversation too.

“Hey, sorry, have you been waiting here for long?” Hyunjin asked with a smile as he sat across from Minho.

“Oh, no, no, don't worry! Frankly, I thought I would be late, I got caught up grooming my cats.”

“What the hell? He starts with the cats right off the bat!? How do you know he’s not a cat person, what if he ends up liking you more for that!?” Jisung thought, “Not just that, look at your getup! Styled hair, unbuttoned shirt, makeup. What did you have to come here looking all pretty and handsome and-” Jisung shook his head, realizing where the thoughts were going, and focused back on the conversation he was overhearing. 

“Aw, that’s sweet! How many do you have?” Hyunjin cooed.

“Twelve!” Minho said with a smile.

“See, I told you you spoke too soo- WAIT, TWELVE!?” Jisung could barely hold in his laugh from his seat. He was the one who had assumed too soon. Twelve cats was definitely not the most attractive date opener. Not only that, he knew Minho had exaggerated that number.

“That’s cute! I’m sure they make you happy!” Hyunjin didn't show a single sign of disgust.

Jisung’s eyes widened upon hearing that reaction. When he looked over, Minho gave him a quick glance, which clearly read “YOU made him like this!” 

The date continued as such. Minho would say some weird things that would usually be considered a turn-off, but Hyunjin didn't bat an eye at any of them. Jisung was witnessing the strength of a love potion from a front row seat and was terrified at what he made and put in Hyunjin’s drink. He knew he wouldn't be making a ‘Love at First Sight’ again anytime soon.

In fact, aside from the weird remarks from Minho, from the outside it looked like a normal date. Both of them were smiling, laughing and looked like they were enjoying themselves. It made Jisung think that if it were him in Minho’s place, Hyunjin wouldn't mind any of his quirks and insecurities either. 

The more time passed, the more it was obvious Minho’s plan wasn't working as intended. The potion gave no signs of wearing off and Hyunjin looked as if he was enjoying himself no matter what nonsense his date shared with him. And much to Jisung’s regret, at the sight of this very much not a disaster of a date, he could feel jealousy brewing inside him. That was exactly what Minho was afraid of. 

As time went on, he became more uneasy. He considered taking the confidence potion in his pocket, but figured it might lead to him acting out. Minho wouldn't appreciate that for sure. So the other option he had was to leave. Surely if this part of the plan to lift the effect wasn't working he wouldn't have an opening to talk to Hyunjin anyway. It was better to throw in the towel than to stay there and watch.

Just as he was about to get up and leave, he noticed Minho’s hand was placed on the table casually, he likely hadn't paid much attention. However, Hyunjin was reaching out with his and it was obvious what he was about to do. Watching his best friend and crush enjoy a date was one thing, but holding hands like a couple was something Jisung couldn't bear to watch. Without a second though he stood up, dashed over to their table and grabbed Minho by the wrist, pulling his hand back.

The two in front of him fell silent. Jisung was unable to face them, but was well aware they were staring at him in shock. 

“Jisung, what are you doing?” Minho said in a calm voice, “I mean here- What are you doing here?” He tried to mask the question in front of Hyunjin. 

Jisung didn't say anything and his gaze remained unmoving from his hand firmly wrapped around Minho’s wrist. He didn't dare move and felt like all words were stuck in his throat. Realizing the situation he was in and clueless on what the next step should be, his hand started trembling. Minho noticed that and let go of Jisung’s grip. 

Before Jisung could prepare for what was to follow, he heard Minho say, “Hyunjin, can you excuse us?” and without waiting for an actual response, he in turn grabbed Jisung by the wrist and led him outside the restaurant.

Once they were out and could talk without being heard by Hyunjin, Minho asked again, “What were you doing!?” 

“I- I just saw that he was going to- And-” Jisung stuttered.

“Oh, so you just got jealous that he was going to hold my hand, is that it?” 

Jisung didn't say anything, but he didn't have to since they both knew the answer. 

“And why did you have to step in? What made you think I’d let him do that? Didn't I say I’m here to help you?” 

“And why are you helping me so much!? Why, when you could have sat back and done nothing!?” Jisung voiced his thoughts from earlier.

“Because I care about you, you idiot!” 

Upon hearing that, Jisung fell silent. Of course he knew Minho cared about him, they were best friends after all! He never doubted that for a second. But what he didn't understand was why his heart skipped a beat upon hearing those words.

Jisung looked up at Minho, finally meeting his gaze, and was surprised by the intense look that Minho was giving him. Minho was exasperated, that much Jisung knew, but there was something else in his gaze too. There was too much emotion burning in Minho’s eyes to be just irritation, but Jisung wasn’t sure if he couldn’t name it or simply didn’t want to. He wouldn’t admit it to himself, but a similar emotion was burning in his own eyes. 

Jisung noticed that the entire time while they were out, Minho hadn't let go of his wrist. He wondered why he even noticed that, when it wasn’t an unusual gesture between them. His grip was firm, but in a gentler way that made it feel secure and grounding. How was he noticing these things only now…?

“I- I’m sorry…” Jisung managed to say after calming down.

Minho sighed, “I’ll try my best to explain this to Hyunjin and… you just stay somewhere nearby just in case. Maybe I’ll be able to break the spell or it will wear off on its own.” 

Jisung couldn't believe what he was hearing. With fuck up after fuck up, Minho still didn't hold anything against him and was still willing to help him. Jisung knew they were friends, but he felt like he had pushed way too many buttons for a normal person to still put up with him.

“Because I care about you, you idiot!” 

The words echoed through his mind and he considered how much weight they held after everything he had put his best friend through.

“I’ll go back now,” Minho said and finally let go of Jisung’s hand.

Jisung didn't say anything as he watched him go back into the restaurant, the touch of Minho’s hand still lingering over his wrist.

After being left alone, Jisung figured he had nothing better left to do than what he was told. So he sat down on a bench across the street, not far from the restaurant. The only thing he could do was wait.

While he did so, he took the time to assess everything that had just happened and what he could do from now on. If Hyunjin approached him, how would he explain himself to him? What would be the reason for being with them in the restaurant? Why did he intervene? He had to think of something!

Not only that, but he owed a huge apology to Minho. For involving him in this mess and getting in his way of fixing it, which was only out of his own good will. He couldn't begin to imagine what he could do to make it up to him. 

There were also some things he couldn't explain to himself, like why he was acting so strangely around Minho. Why did he notice so many small details out of a sudden? Ones he always knew were there, but suddenly stuck out? Was it just because he was so nervous? Or because he felt guilty?

A voice interrupted his chain of thoughts, “Jisung?”

He looked up and saw the last person he was expecting. Hyunjin.

“Oh, hey, Hyunjin!” Jisung tried to sound cheerful, pushing back his previous thoughts, “Look, about earlier, I was just-” 

“You don't need to explain, I understand everything now,” Hyunjin interrupted.

Jisung stiffened. Was he found out!? Did the potion wear off and make Hyunjin realize what had happened? Or did Minho already tell him that it was Jisung he was supposed to ask out? No, he wouldn't do that-

“After all, I’d probably act the same way, if not worse, if the guy I liked went out with someone else,” Hyunjin continued with a giggle.

Jisung’s eyes widened. He really was found out! He was done for! There was no way he could start on a clean slate with Hyunjin now, he had made such a fool of himself!

“But don't worry. Minho speaks very fondly of you, so I think you have a shot with him!” 

Pause. 

“Wait, what- No, I-”

“Oh, sorry if I’m mistaken! It’s just that… You two seem so close whenever I see you in the coffee shop. And now you were here, because you were worried about him. The way you jumped because I was going to hold his hand too! I know I wouldn't want to see that if I was in your place. Plus, I saw you two talk while you were outside and you were staring at him quite intently… almost like you were in a movie.”

Jisung gulped upon hearing all of this. Obviously that wasn't the case! At least, not all of it… He did that because of Hyunjin, not Minho! That’s why he came here and why he intervened…

But… the rest wasn't connected to Hyunjin at all. Noticing Minho’s laugh, the way he held his hand, how he looked, how he could get lost in his gaze… those had nothing to do with Hyunjin at all… 

But could that really be it!? He liked Hyunjin, not Minho! That was how it has been for months now! It didn’t make sense! And while the mention of Minho talking fondly of him did make his heart flutter, he obviously did that to give Hyunjin a better impression of him! There was nothing more to it! …Right?

Jisung sighed and decided to change the topic, “I just wanted to apologize for intervening. You were having a great time until that point and I feel bad for ruining the mood. I hope it all went well afterwards though.”

“I admit, it was fun. Minho’s a great guy. If you’re gonna shoot your shot, I suggest doing it before someone snatches him from you,” Hyunjin threw him a friendly wink. 

Yet again, Jisung’s mind was sent into a frenzy by what Hyunjin was implying. 

“I’d love to stay and chat more, but I have some errands to run in the afternoon,” he said after Jisung remained silent.

Right, Jisung was supposed to be making a good impression now. Not having an internal battle over whatever he was feeling and only because of what Hyunjin had suggested. He missed his chance once again. 

“Oh, okay, see you around,” Jisung tried not to sound as upset as he felt.

“You mean “see you tomorrow”.” Hyunjin smiled and waved off.

Jisung’s heart lightened as he heard that and returned the smile, “Yeah, see you tomorrow.”

After Hyunjin turned around and left, Jisung sat back down and let out a sigh. Whether it was one of relief or frustration or a bit of both, he didn't know. 

Unsure whether he was supposed to meet Minho afterwards, he fumbled through his pockets to find his phone. His fingers brushed by the vial Minho had given him before the date and that made Jisung realize something.

Just now when talking to Hyunjin, he hadn't stuttered, nor trembled. He hadn't said anything weird either.

He didn't need the potion. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽∞☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Watching Hyunjin step into the coffee shop the next day, his usual smile playing on his lips, Jisung found that his heart wasn’t beating as hard as it usually did. Hyunjin approached the counter and gave Jisung a bit of a shy smile.

“Good morning, Jisung.”

“Hi, Hyunjin,” Jisung said, feeling a little sheepish after the conversation they had yesterday. “Should I get Minho for you?” He was turning before he fully asked the question but didn’t miss the small chuckle that escaped Hyunjin - it was all the confirmation that Jisung needed. 

“Your favorite customer is here,” Jisung told Minho with a roll of his eyes.

Minho shook his head, his lips pulling up into an amused smile. “Stop projecting - he’s your favorite customer, not mine.”

“He inflates your ego,” Jisung countered. “He’s your favorite customer.”

Minho laughed and didn’t deny it. “For now,” he said simply, walking past Jisung and moving to help Hyunjin at the register. Jisung watched from his now usual spot against the back counter as his friend leaned forward towards Hyunjin and gave him a smile. “Another recommendation?”

“As always,” Hyunjin answered with a smile. “What do you have for me today?”

“I’ve been thinking a lot about what to suggest to you,” Minho hummed, placing his elbows on the counter and cupping his chin in his hand. “At this rate you’re going to run through the whole menu.”

Hyunjin’s cheeks flushed a pretty pink and Jisung couldn’t help but smile from his spot by the espresso machine. He noticed that Minho had seemed to drop the flirting and was talking to Hyunjin normally. He assumed that the older was simply waiting for the love potion to wear off - it didn’t seem like there was much else that could be done at that point.

“Maybe I should just get my usual order,” Hyunjin mumbled.

Minho laughed and shook his head. “Not quite yet. I’ve got one more drink that I really think you should try.”

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow in response, his brown eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Which one?”

“Maze of Memories,” Minho responded quickly, his lips pulling up into a grin. Jisung couldn’t see his friend’s face from where he stood, but he didn't have to see him to know that his eyes were sparkling with excitement. He was, however, surprised by his friend’s choice of drink.

“Maze of Memories?” Jisung piped up, cocking his head to the side in question.

Minho looked at him with a grin and nodded. 

“What does that one do?” Hyunjin asked curiously.

Jisung opened his mouth to answer but Minho shook his head, leveling him with a look so serious that Jisung immediately decided to shut up. “Trust me when I say this one is a lot more fun to experience without knowing,” Minho said, turning his attention back to Hyunjin. “You trust me, right?”

Hyunjin’s brows seemed to furrow in confusion for a moment, but they smoothed out so quickly that Jisung wasn’t sure if it had actually happened or if he had imagined it. 

“Yeah, I trust you,” Hyunjin confirmed with a smile. “You haven’t led me astray yet.”

Minho nodded in response and Jisung was sure he sent Hyunjin one last smile before turning away to work on the drink.

“Maze of memories,” Jisung repeated, lowering his voice so that only his friend would be able to hear him. “What plan do you have, Minho?”

“I don't know what you mean,” Minho sniffed, looking sideways at his friend. “I have no ulterior motives.”

Jisung narrowed his eyes. “I don't believe you.”

Minho laughed at this, and if the sound made Jisung’s heart flutter then that was his business and his alone. “I swear I don't have any,” his friend repeated. “I just think it's a really neat potion. You have to admit, it's more fun if you don't know what it's supposed to do.”

Jisung relented with a sigh, begrudgingly nodding his head at his friend - as always, Minho was right. “I suppose,” he drawled, trying not to smile as he saw Minho’s lips twitch with his own repressed smirk.

“I suppose,” Minho mimicked with a roll of his eyes. “Will you ever admit that I’m right, Jisung?”

“No,” Jisung said simply, unable to stop himself from grinning. 

Minho merely shook his head as he turned to give Hyunjin his drink, but Jisung didn’t miss the way that Minho’s lips twitched with another repressed smirk. “Okay, there’s one thing you have to do before you drink this,” Minho said seriously. 

Hyunjin’s brown eyes widened in both surprise and curiosity and he nodded his head as he looked on at Minho. “Okay. What is it?”

Minho’s tone softened and his features softened with it. “I want you to think of your favorite drink - your absolute favorite drink! Maybe something that makes you think of good memories. Keep it in mind while you drink.”

Hyunjin’s expression turned thoughtful and he nodded as he slowly grabbed the drink from the counter. He paused for a moment, staring down at his coffee in deep thought, before he finally raised the cup to his lips and took a drink - the effect was immediate. 

Hyunjin’s eyes widened in awe and he looked up at Minho in surprise, his gaze also flickering to Jisung. “How is this possible?” he whispered. 

Minho merely grinned while Jisung chuckled and stepped closer to the counter. “What did you think of?” he asked curiously. He leaned forward to rest his elbows on the counter and brushed Minho’s shoulder in the process - he tried to ignore how aware he was of the elder’s shoulder pressing against his own.

“Jasmine milk tea,” Hyunjin murmured, looking back down at his cup with a small smile. “My mom used to make it for me when I was sad or having a hard time. I’ve ordered Jasmine milk tea from just about everywhere but none of them have managed to taste the same. But this…”

Jisung nodded as Hyunjin trailed off - he understood completely. “It’s almost scary, isn’t it?”

“Almost,” Hyunjin agreed with a chuckle. “What is this potion, exactly? Does it make you taste what you love most?”

“It can,” Minho started, “but that’s not exactly what it does. The potion is actually a lot simpler than that - it’ll make your drink taste like whatever you are thinking of, so long as you have tasted it before.”

“So, if I was thinking of kimbap…”

“Then your drink would taste like kimbap,” Minho confirmed with a nod, seeming amused at how Hyunjin thought to process the information.

“Yeah, I’d much rather it didn’t,” Hyunjin said, wrinkling his nose.

“Just keep thinking of your mom’s tea,” Jisung teased with a smile. “If you stop thinking about anything it’ll just taste like water.”

“What do you think of when you drink it?” Hyunjin asked curiously, cocking his head to the side in question.

“Me?” Jisung asked, surprised to find Hyunjin nodding - wouldn’t he want to know what Minho thought of? 

“Cheesecake,” Minho answered easily. “Jisung is always thinking about cheesecake.”

Jisung scowled but didn’t protest - he couldn’t. Once again, Minho proved that he knew his best friend like the back of his hand. Jisung couldn’t help but feel warm inside at the fact that Minho was able to answer so easily, like he hadn’t even thought about it at all, but he couldn’t place why Minho answering made him feel that way. He knew that he could do the same for Minho - that’s what best friends did. But did everyone feel warm and fuzzy inside when their friend remembered small details about them?

Jisung’s internal monologue was interrupted by a giggle from Hyunjin. He brought a hand to his mouth as he giggled and his eyes curved up into the small crescents that Jisung had spent many an afternoon telling Minho about. “Cute.”

Jisung could feel his face heat at the comment as Minho laughed beside him. “Yeah, cute,” Minho agreed, ruffling his hair. 

Jisung didn’t want to think about why the casual touch made his heart beat faster. He playfully swatted away Minho’s hand, hoping that his friend didn’t notice the way his hand was shaking. “Yeah, adorable,” Jisung deadpanned with a roll of his eyes.

“I think I’m going to stay for a while today,” Hyunjin said, watching the two with a smile. “My professor canceled class and I’ve never actually sat in here.”

“Stay as long as you’d like,” Minho said with a casual wave of his hand. “We have pastries if you get hungry.”

With a smile and a wave Hyunjin walked off to sit at one of the tables in the shop.

Minho immediately turned to Jisung and raised an eyebrow at him. “Did you decide to take it today?”

Jisung’s eyes widened in confusion. “Take what?”

Minho pursed his lips together and peered at his best friend, noticing immediately that the confusion was real. “The confidence potion,” he said slowly. “The one I made for you that you never ended up taking.”

The potion. Truthfully, the vial that Minho had given him was still resting in his sweater pocket - his sweater, which was thrown haphazardly over the back of a chair in his room. “No, it’s back at my apartment,” Jisung told him. “Why?”

Minho blinked at him, staying silent for a moment before slowly responding. “I just watched you talk to Hyunjin like you two are friends. You didn’t stutter once.”

Jisung’s eyes widened slightly with the realization that Minho was right - he had managed to have a perfectly normal conversation with Hyunjin for the first time ever, all of his brain cells seemingly intact today. “M-maybe it’s a fluke?” Jisung stammered, shrugging helplessly at Minho. His heart started to beat faster but he tried to pay it no mind.

“If there’s one thing I can be certain of it’s that you’re always nervous when you’re around someone you have a crush on,” Minho countered, his eyes narrowing. “Something isn’t adding up.”

“Miracles can happen, Minho,” Jisung answered with a nervous chuckle; his palms were starting to get sweaty.

“Your ears are red.”

“Are you always this observant?” Jisung countered, trying to keep his voice light. “Maybe I’m about to pass out from a heat stroke. It is hot outside, you know.”

“Jisung, the air conditioning is on.”

“Well I can’t control my body!” Jisung answered, throwing his arms up in exasperation.

Minho let out a small huff of air as he shook his head but he raised his hands in surrender. “Fine, Mr. Heat Stroke,” he said with a roll of his eyes, taking mercy on Jisung and letting the subject drop. “Whatever you say.”

Jisung was only allowed a moment of relief before Hyunjin was walking nervously up to the counter, his brow furrowed in thought - this didn’t look good. “Hyunjin?” he asked hesitantly, stepping closer to the counter. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes,” Hyunjin said slowly, his gaze flicking between Jisung and Minho, “...and no.”

Jisung’s brows furrowed in confusion but Minho looked at Hyunjin with something akin to understanding in his eyes - as always, he seemed to be one step ahead of Jisung. “Your drink,” Minho started, raising an eyebrow. 

Hyunjin shook his head slightly. “It’s fine. I finished it, actually. It was very good. I appreciate the recommendation, but uh…”

“Why did I recommend it?”

“Why did I want you to recommend a drink?” Hyunjin clarified, looking between the two again.

Jisung couldn’t hold back a sigh - well, he knew this moment was bound to come eventually. “Why don’t we go sit back at your table?” Jisung asked, already untying his apron as he got ready to sit in the cafe. “I’ll explain everything.”

Minho looked sideways at him and Jisung could see the concern etched into every feature of his face. He raised his eyebrows slightly as if to ask Jisung if he wanted help but Jisung shook his head, sending a small smile Minho’s way before stepping around the counter; he had made this mess and so he would be the one to clean it up.

Explaining everything to Hyunjin was easier than Jisung expected, though no less embarrassing. Hyunjin sat back and listened patiently, watching Jisung with his lips pursed as he explained the situation that they now found themselves in. Contrary to Jisung’s fears, Hyunjin didn’t seem mad at the end of it. Instead, the boy laughed. 

Jisung was quiet for a moment, watching as Hyunjin laughed, before he launched into another apology. “I’m really sorry, Hyunjin,” he said. “I know what I did was wrong. Really wrong. Trust me when I say that I won’t do something like that ever again.”

Hyunjin continued to laugh and Jisung was getting worried that the laughter was a sign of madness, but then Hyunjin shook his head slightly and smiled at Jisung. “Jisung,” he sighed, his brown eyes bright with amusement, “if you had just asked me out like a normal person then I would have said yes.”

Jisung’s brain short-circuited. Had he heard Hyunjin correctly? “Y-you would have what?” he asked incredulously, his eyes growing wide.

Hyunjin laughed again. “Jisung, I don’t even like coffee that much,” he giggled. “I only keep coming back because you’re the cute barista.”

Jisung looked around as if there was someone else that Hyunjin could be talking to. There was no way that his long-time crush had been crushing on him as well. Jisung must have stepped into some alternate dimension. Or maybe he was stuck in some sort of fever dream - that felt like it could be possible. Just about anything other than the words coming out of Hyunjin’s mouth felt like a possibility. “You know we can put that potion in tea, right?” he said dumbly, focusing on the only part of Hyunjin’s answer that his brain could process.

Hyunjin’s smile disappeared for a second, something like confusion crossing his features. “Actually, no. I didn’t even think about that.” As quickly as the confusion was there, however, it passed with nothing more than a slight shrug from Hyunjin. “I don’t think that’s the important part of what I said, though.”

Jisung’s cheeks flushed. “N-no, you’re right. It’s not.” 

The two fell into a short silence, Jisung trying to absorb Hyunjin’s confession and Hyunjin sitting there patiently with a small smile on his face.

“So,” Hyunjin said slowly, his tone light and teasing. “What if we tried this again? But properly this time. We can go out for brunch if you want.”

Brunch. Memories of Hyunjin’s date with Minho crossed his mind, but suddenly he was seeing the entire situation in a different light. When he had watched Hyunjin accept all of Minho’s weird - and very much untrue - quirks, he had thought that maybe Hyunjin would accept his weird quirks too. When he had watched the two smile and laugh he had thought that he wanted to be the one making Hyunjin laugh, the one laughing with Hyunjin. When Hyunjin had moved to hold Minho’s hand, panic had filled his body - but suddenly he wasn’t sure why he had panicked. 

Suddenly he wasn’t sure if he had panicked because he wanted to hold Hyunjin’s hand or if he panicked because he wanted to be the one to hold Minho’s hand. He wasn’t sure if maybe he wanted to be on the receiving end of Minho’s startled laughs - the ones that made his face light up with the happiness that he couldn’t conceal. Jisung wanted someone who would accept all of his quirks without question, who would love him because of them and not despite them.

“I care about you, idiot!”

Of course Minho cared about him. Minho cared about him in the same way that Jisung cared about Minho - there was a bond between them that ran as deep as the Yellow Sea. But suddenly Jisung wondered if he wanted there to be more.

He looked up at Hyunjin nervously. “I-I don’t think I can,” he whispered.

Hyunjin’s face fell and Jisung thought he felt his heart break. “Why not?”

“Do you remember the conversation we had after your date with Minho?” Jisung asked quietly, letting his gaze fall to the table between them.

Hyunjin was silent for a moment before he let out a hum of understanding. “Minho,” he said softly.

“Yeah…I think so,” Jisung answered. He risked a glance up at Hyunjin and found the other looking at him fondly, his lips curved up into a small smile. 

“I thought that might be the case,” Hyunjin admitted. “That's why I never made a move, you know.”

“You what?” Jisung asked incredulously. How could Hyunjin have thought this for months when Jisung was just now realizing it himself?

Hyunjin laughed. “You really are dense, aren’t you Jisung?” he teased.

“A-ah….maybe,” Jisung conceded, trying to ignore the way his face flushed as he nervously rubbed a hand over the back of his neck. “Hyunjin I am really sor-”

“Ah, I know,” Hyunjin interrupted, waving a hand dismissively. “You basically drugged me just to reject me, I would hope you’re sorry.” He snickered at the way Jisung’s eyes widened at this and kept talking. “My broken heart will mend. I think the more important question is, what the hell are you going to do about falling for your best friend?”

Jisung sighed and risked a glance up at the front counter, where Minho was currently talking with a customer. He watched his best friend in a new light and felt his heart clench painfully. “I have no idea.”

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽∞☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

In the following days, Jisung felt the weight of the realization every time he laid eyes upon Minho. And while he expected to feel the same way towards his new crush as his previous one, he quickly proved himself wrong. The conclusion reached was that in some ways it was better, and in others, worse.

The nervous feeling that stiffened him every time Hyunjin walked into the coffee shop was unexpectedly countered by a sense of familiarity and comfort. Every brush of their arms against each other, which Jisung barely paid any mind to before, left him feeling tingly and giddy, just like the day of Minho and Hyunjin’s date. And while he didn't stutter, that certainly didn't mean his mind wasn't going haywire. 

Lost in thought, a sigh escaped his lips as he turned around to serve the next customer in line, and sure enough, it was Hyunjin. 

“So, what’s the recommendation today?” Hyunjin asked with a smirk.

Jisung returned with a similar attitude, “We’re still doing this?”

“Why wouldn't we? I think it’s tradition now.”

“It was with Minho. I’m not sure you want a recommendation from someone who drugged you.” Jisung argued, but the smile never left his lips.

“Hey, it’s an opportunity to start anew!” 

Jisung shook his head, as if the idea was ridiculous, but in reality he was grateful Hyunjin still even wanted anything to do with him after the incident. He tapped his chin and thought for a second, but an idea came to him the instant he looked outside, “On a rainy day like today, how about a ‘Weathering With You’?” 

Hyunjin’s eyebrows furrowed, confused, but also intrigued, so Jisung was quick to add, “After you drink it, when you go out, even when it’s pouring, you’ll be completely dry. And, yes, it means you can walk over the puddles, because you can walk on water.”

Hyunjin’s mouth opened in awe, “Now you’re straight up giving me superpowers.” 

“That’s the fun of it right?” 

With that, Jisung got to work on making the potion, this time without making any creative adjustments, and also remembering to put it in tea, rather than coffee. When he gave it to Hyunjin, he looked happy that Jisung had remembered this detail from their conversation the previous day. 

After he left and Jisung was left with no customers waiting for him, Minho approached him and teasingly nudged him with his elbow, “My, my, look at you. Who knew you could be such a flirt when your tongue isn't tied,” he teased.

Jisung rolled his eyes, but while he seemed indifferent, the close proximity between them was turning his stomach upside down, “I told you, things aren't like that anymore. We already cleared things up.”

The day before, when Jisung went back to the cafe after talking to Hyunjin, he’d told Minho that his feelings weren't reciprocated, but there were no hard feelings between them. He conveniently had omitted the part where Hyunjin had asked him out and Jisung had turned him down, since he naturally couldn't explain to Minho why he’d done that. That, and he’d probably be furious over this outcome after the mess Jisung had caused. 

“At least it’s nice to see you talking to him like a normal person. And you won't be making disastrous concoctions on a whim anymore.” Minho joked.

Jisung agreed with the first half of that statement, but with the second…

“I’ll go make myself something warm to drink while there’s no one waiting. This crazy weather came out of nowhere.” Jisung said and Minho just nodded in return, finding nothing weird about what he’d just heard.

Jisung went to the back counter and once he double checked that Minho wasn't close enough to notice what was about to happen.

He flipped through the potion recipe book, eagerly looking for something he’d come up with the previous night once he had been left alone with his thoughts. 

With Jisung acknowledging his newly discovered feelings for his best friend, he knew he couldn't make the same mistakes as he had with Hyunjin. He couldn't just drug Minho into liking him (not that it was possible, he would be able to recognize any potion he was given), but he didn't have the guts to be upfront about it either. 

Everyone knew confessing to your best friend was a recipe for awkwardness, disaster and truckloads of cringe! Not because of what the dramas teach you - how confessing to your best friend ruins the friendship you’ve built. But precisely because they politely reject you and stick around! How could Jisung ever live that down!? Minho was sure to tease him about this to his grave and then in the afterlife when they turned into ghosts. 

Jisung wanted to be honest with his feelings and not drag things out, seeing how months of gushing over a stranger caused him so much trouble. While confessing his feelings to Minho might’ve sounded easy one minute, since it was easy to be honest with his best friend, for the very same reason it became terrifying the next. But Jisung had sworn he wouldn't use potions…

…on others.

He never said he wouldn't use potions on himself.

All he needed was a little push! Something to force the words out for him, since they’d get stuck in his throat if he were to try by himself anyway. And there was only one potion that never failed to bring out the words out of the subject’s mouth.

Jisung finally found the recipe he was looking for.

Coffee of Candor

Effect : instant

200ml fresh spring water

1 tbsp Daffodil extract (1.4%)

2-3 grains Heart of Nobility 

50ml tbsp Pear juice

NB: The mixture must be boiled after all the ingredients are added

Jisung glanced over his shoulder again to make sure no one was watching and once he was certain he wouldn't get caught, he got to preparing the drink.

He took the 200ml of spring water. It was freshly boiled so he figured there would be no need to boil the whole thing afterwards again and went ahead and added the rest of the ingredients.

The daffodil extract was only 0.7% but surely he could just add double the amount and get the same effect. That’s how the math maths out right?

To his surprise, there was barely half the pear juice he needed left, but he couldn't get more, so he’d just have to make do with what was available. As long as it was close enough, it should work, right?

Once the drink was prepared, he was quick to chug down the whole thing. It was the quickest way to get rid of all the evidence. And it didn't taste too bad anyway.

To his surprise, Jisung wasn't feeling bursting at the seams to say everything on his mind. Maybe the effect would kick in only once he started speaking. He was going to look for Minho to test it out, but noticed a customer approaching and changed his plan. 

In typical Jisung fashion, he hadn't planned ahead how he would serve customers under the effect of an honesty potion and avoid saying something offensive. However, once he opened his mouth to greet them, a completely different problem arose. 

“Holla custom'r and welcometh to the Dreameth cafe! How may I holp thee?” 

Jisung covered his mouth with his hands the second he heard the words that escaped him.

Fuck.

The customer gave him an amused look, but still proceeded with an order, “Uuuuh, hi. A Demeter’s Blessing will do.”

Jisung simply nodded to avoid any more fancy words leaving his mouth and moved to the back counter to prepare the drink, mentally cursing every second.

What the hell is this!? How can a few drop of fucking pear juice make a different potion? Or was the water not the right one? Did I not do the math right?

“Jisung…” he heard a voice call next to him and jumped. He hadn't even noticed when Minho had come back, “What did you do…”

Jisung swallowed heavily, afraid to mutter a single word. But judging by Minho’s glare, he’d already been caught, so there was no point in hiding.

“I didn't doth aught! I just madeth myself a coffee! How wast I did suppose to knoweth I'd endeth up liketh this!?” Jisung argued in a panic, barely able to understand his own words. He wasn't sure if Minho was able to fully decipher them either.

“You said you were just going to make a warm drink, not a potion! What were you even making that you turned out like this!?”

Jisung’s eyes darted around, unable to look directly at Minho. The result of his concoction was clearly anything but an honesty potion, so he wasn't about to tell him what he’d been trying to make, even less so why. He pursed his lips, avoiding his best friend’s death glare. It was enough to show he wasn't going to spill the beans.

Minho sighed, “Fine, it doesn't matter. Just finish your drink and get back to work.”

Hearing that shocked Jisung enough to break his silence, “What? How am I did suppose to w'rk liketh this? Ev'ryone is gawking at me!” 

“Maybe you should've thought about that before making more potions on a whim!” Minho barked out, but seeing Jisung stiffen and his eyes overflow with guilt, he lowered his voice, “I’ll look for something to reverse this when I have a break. Just pretend this is part of the aesthetic of the place for now.” He squeezed Jisung’s shoulder for reassurance.

As usual, Jisung couldn't ignore how much he noticed the small gesture, but appreciated how soothing and grounding it was. Minho was clearly upset with him for causing trouble, yet again, but wasn't going to leave his friend in his misery. A warm feeling spread throughout his body at the thought.

Afterwards, he did just as he was told and kept on serving customers as if nothing was out of the ordinary. At first he wanted to crawl under the counter until Minho found a way to fix his mess, but as the day passed he got used to it. While some customers gave him weird looks, no one commented on his overly fancy speech. In fact, most acted as if they didn't notice, or maybe they just didn't care as long as they got their drinks. There were a few literary enthusiasts who even answered in a similar fashion. Whether they were mocking Jisung or just having fun, he couldn't guess.

By the end of the day, Minho had mixed up a potion to reverse the effect and returned Jisung back to his normal self. Of course, he got another warning from Minho to stop experimenting with modifying potion recipes. 

The following days were peaceful, since Jisung was planning on following that advice, but he was back at square one - he had feelings for his best friend and couldn't think of a way to express them properly. Being upfront felt like even worse of an idea, since he’d just recently messed up again and caused trouble for Minho. If Jisung somehow had the courage to be honest with him, he’d surely get rejected for being careless. There was nothing attractive about a clumsy boy like him.

Attractive…

Attractive! That’s it! 

Jisung’s head jerked up from the counter where he was leaning half-asleep during his break. Minho was nowhere to be seen, which meant there was no better time to act than now.

He flipped through the potion recipe book and quickly found the one he was looking for - Alluring Gaze. It was perfect, as long as this time he followed the recipe properly, without adjusting it on his own accord.

A potion to make him look attractive in the eyes of others was surely going to help fix Minho’s perception of him. In fact, if the outlook was positive, maybe Jisung would have the courage to be honest about his feelings. It’s easier to confess to someone who you know already finds you attractive after all.

Being careful to pick the right ingredients, measure them as close as possible to the recipe and add them in the right order, Jisung made himself another potion. He couldn't think of anything he could've done wrong while preparing it so he chugged it down in one go.

He wasn't sure if he was supposed to feel any change, which made him panic at first, but all his worries disappeared as soon as he saw Minho approach him with a glowing smile spread across his face.

“Jisungie!” Minho called, making Jisung unable to hide the smile caused by hearing the cute nickname, “I forgot to tell you earlier, but you look great today! I can't put my finger on it, but there’s just something different…” 

Jisung could barely sit still. It worked. The potion worked. He hadn't messed it up and the effect was just what he was looking for. After so much trial and error, he’d finally done something right. Not only did he feel proud of himself, but felt elated from being showered with attention from Minho.

Jisung would've stayed with him, enjoying the one moment in his potion-making career that had gone right, but he noticed a few customers enter the cafe, which meant they both had to get back to work.

Feeling recharged, he gave his most uplifting greeting, “Hello and welcome to the Dream cafe! How may I help you?”

“Hey there, cutie.” the customer winked at him, “How about you give me something as sweet as you?”

Jisung was taken aback by the flirtatious attitude, but a second later it hit him and his bright attitude faded instantly. 

The potion. It made others attracted to him. And that meant not just Minho, but everyone around him. 

But it was going to be alright as long as Minho was affected, right? A few flirty customers were nothing to be scared of. Jisung could handle it. The effect would wear off eventually too.

Despite the awkwardness, Jisung did his best to keep working as if nothing was out of the ordinary. Which progressively became more difficult than he’d anticipated.

He thought pick-up lines and cheesy openers was as bad as it would get, but he’d clearly underestimated how bold, and straight up intrusive some people could be. Many threw him intimate looks, a handful straight up asked him out and one was even bold enough to try and cup his cheek, but Jisung backed away quick enough before their hand could even graze his skin. Not to mention how persistent most of them were, dragging out their conversations and orders just to keep talking to Jisung. This also inevitably slowed down all the orders and the queue became longer than he’d ever seen since he’d worked in the cafe.

The pressure was building up, both from the discomfort of strangers hitting on him and the sight of the long line in front. Minho was doing his best to help and somehow, despite the potion, wasn't acting pushy at all, unlike the customers. Jisung made the millionth note in his mind how lucky he is to have someone as kind as Minho. But surely, once this effect wore off, he’d get another earful. 

“Minho…” Jisung muttered, “I don't feel too good. Can you take over for me for a bit?”

Minho’s eyes filled up with concern, “What’s wrong? Do you need to go home? Or to the hospital? Do I make you anything?”

“No, no, thank you, but I just… have a headache and feel dizzy. I’ll go to the staff room and get some rest and come back when I’m doing better.” Jisung whispered, avoiding Minho’s gaze. He hated lying to his best friend, especially when he was this worried. 

Minho nodded and reassured he could handle things after reminding Jisung to ask him if he needed anything. With that, Jisung left his best friend to deal with the hoard.

When Jisung went to the staff room, all he could do was find a comfortable place to wait out the storm. He’d messed up. Again. And Minho was the one cleaning up his mess. Again. He thought for a second things had been going right, but even that was taken away from him. 

The recipe book had mentioned the potion lasted for just a few hours and since Jisung had carefully followed it, it meant the effect would wear off not after long. He was overwhelmed with guilt that he’d left Minho alone, probably still under the effect of the potion and unsuspecting of the circumstances. Not that it would last long. Soon Minho would come to his senses and he’d be upset with Jisung. Again.

Jisung sighed and leaned back in his seat, waiting for doomsday to arrive. 

Minho came back to check up on him a few times, reassuring Jisung he can rest as long as he needs to. However, towards the end of the work day, when the potion had finally worn off, he came to Jisung with a completely different attitude.

“Do I even need to ask at this point? Or do I already know the answer?” Minho asked flatly when he came back to the staff room.

“I- I just-” Jisung stammered, trying to come up with an excuse, but his mind was blank.

“You just what? You’re so hung up on Hyunjin, but since you already drugged him once and it didn't work, now you’re drugging yourself?” Minho raised his voice, noticeably more than Jisung was used to.

Shit.

Jisung had never thought of using Hyunjin as an excuse in front of Minho. But clearly, his best friend thought this was all still about him. Jisung couldn't blame him for suspecting as much, since he’d lied about this too, among other things.

Minho continued after he didn't get an answer, “Jisung, I’m telling you this as a friend, because I care about you. If he’s not into you, stop pushing it. He’s not going to appreciate it and it’s better for you to move on.”

Jisung muttered a barely audible ‘Okay’ and didn't explain further, simply because he couldn't. Minho left without a word. 

He couldn't just tell him he was completely off. While the assumption that he was still going after Hyunjin was a good cover up for yet another one of Jisung’s fuck ups, it stung more than expected to hear that the guy he liked thought he was into someone else. He was getting entangled deeper into his mess of lies and potion disasters by the day.

Jisung didn't want to keep digging his own grave with more mishaps, since with each he made Minho more upset, which was the exact opposite of what he was trying to achieve.

The following day, Jisung couldn't help but notice that Minho was still upset. He didn't joke around as much and wasn't as lighthearted as usual. When Jisunb asked directly, he was met with denial, but he knew better. If he couldn't tell when his best friend was lying about being upset, what kind of friend was he? Even after apologising multiple times, Minho’s attitude didn't change. 

Jisung could tell Minho was upset with his careless attitude, not thinking ahead, causing messes and disregarding others’ feelings. He’d said that multiple times by now and looking back on it, Jisung felt stupid for taking so long to realise that. Overall, he wasn't the most sensible person.

Could it be that Minho had finally given up on him? That he thought Jisung was so much of a headache that he had become unbearable to be around? Jisung wouldn't blame him, since he always had to clean up after him and bear the consequences of the situations he put both of them in.

If that was the case, Jisung had to change something. And he had to do it fast. Maybe there’s a potion-

No! Jisung thought, Potions are what got you in this mess in the first place, you idiot! Haven't you learned your lesson already?

Putting an end to his potion experiments was surely the first step of becoming a more reliable person to Minho, but that was likely not the only thing that made his best friend upset. Even if he stuck only to potion orders, that didn't make him immune to other fuck ups. He was still a clutz, wasn't as precise as he should be, he made jokes in the worst moments, he couldn't work under pressure, the list went on. There were too many things Jisung needed to fix about himself, too many before Minho would give up on him for good. He had to make sure his best friend stayed his friend first, before even trying to become more than that to him.

Despite that it was the first thing he shouldn't have done, since there was no other way to improve in so many areas in an instant, he again opened the potion book.

Fool’s Antidote. That was the one.

A few minutes of eager, but careful preparation later, Jisung was already drowning the mix. This time, he could definitely feel the effect. And it was enough to give him a headache.

Suddenly he noticed every dirty spot on the counters and stain on his apron. How unprofessional! The containers with all the ingredients were scattered on the shelves in no particular order. What a mess! These need to be rearranged! He couldn't even stand his own hair anymore. In what world does anyone style their hair like this? I’m in dire need of a haircut.

The thoughts were his own, but not at the same time. There were so many things he was noticing that he previously paid little mind to. He recognized that he normally wouldn't, but now he did and it felt impossible not to act on them. It was like he was sharing a body with another version of him and he didn't have any control over it. To say it was terrifying was putting it lightly, but maybe all this was for the better and would build up to the image Jisung was trying to achieve.

Without trying to fight it, not that he had the control to, he started fixing all the problems he’d noticed around the cafe while there were no customers in line. He cleaned the counter spotless and changed his apron. Then he rearranged all the ingredients in alphabetical order, since it was the easiest way to find them. Lastly, he went to the bathroom to fix his hair. While before it was just let to fall loose, now he’d clipped it back to look more tidy. 

On his way back he passed by Minho, who gave him a confused look upon seeing his new appearance, “What’s with the hair? You look like a cranky lunch lady,” he joked for the first time that day.

Jisung thought it was funny, but instead of laughing he simply said, “Just to make sure no hair falls in the drinks. Plus, this looks more presentable for someone working at a cafe.”

Minho pulled his head back in confusion. He was more shocked to hear this, then when Jisung had started speaking in fancy, “Oooookay, you do you, I guess. Let’s see what comments you get today for that.”

The new sensible part of Jisung simply nodded and went back to the counter where a customer was approaching. Whatever was left of his normal self just thought that while Minho wasn't ecstatic about the encounter with the new sensible Jisung, he didn't seem disappointed either, which was probably a good thing.

“Welcome to the Dream cafe. Your order, please,” Jisung greeted, in a monotone voice rather than the usual cheerful one. Why that was the case, he didn't know. What was so bad about sounding uplifting? Did he look childish before? He never thought as much…

“I’ll have a ‘Butterfly Effect’”

How ironic , Jisung thought, “In coffee, tea, milk or smoothie?”

“Uh, just a coffee.”

“Any allergies?”

“No…?”

“Extra sugar?”

“No, thank you.”

“Whip cream?”

“No…”

“Extended effect?”

“No… how you normally make it is fine.”

“It’s my job to ask.” It was. But Jisung never asked all of these, customers always ordered any changes to the recipe themselves, not after being prompted with an entire questionnaire.

After sensible Jisung was done taking the order, he had to make it. But upon seeing the tools he had to work with, he couldn't help but think, “I need more precise tools! These are magical ingredients we’re working with here, not any ordinary coffee shop!” and stormed off in the back to look for whatever he needed. 

When he came back, he didn't care about the odd look he was getting from Minho, despite the fact that he was carrying droppers, a kitchen scale, a pinsette and… a volumetric pipette? Where the hell did he get that!? And why did they even have that!? 

Whatever was left of his usual sanity was thinking how ridiculous this is, but the potion made him think that it was absolutely necessary, despite that he dreaded what was about to come. 

All the ingredients were measured to the very last drop, until his eyes bulged out, making sure every liquid was exactly up to each measuring line. He double, triple, quadruple checked every measurement. Even he was starting to get annoyed with his own precision, he couldn't even imagine how much the person who’d ordered the drink was regretting his decision.

After three times longer than it usually took to prepare the potion, he gave it to the customer and paid no mind that he didn't look happy with how long he had to wait for it. Jisung thought this wasn't sensible at all, since he was clearly ruining customer satisfaction, but the damn potion kept reminding him that his lack of precision was what got him into this mess in the first place.

Every order that came after, Jisung completed the same way. He noticed the mumbling and grunting from some customers, but his hands wouldn't speed up the process at all. He didn't need anyone to scold him this time, he was already regretting the idea. 

When is this damn thing going to wear off!?

The line was growing, just like with his previous mishap. However, last time because so many people wanted to talk to Jisung, no one was complaining. This time, people who got sick of waiting straight up left. He felt horrible and wanted to stop, but he just couldn't. 

Minho noticed this and came over to Jisung, “Ji, I see you want to be precise and all, but you don't need to be that exact. The potions on the menu are harmless, just make them as you used to before.”

Jisung appreciated the words more than he could express, but under the effect of the potion all he could blurt out in the most monotonous tone was, “We work with unusual ingredients, so we must provide a safe experience for our customers.”

“You’ve always made your orders without all this fancy setup and you’ve never had accidents or complaints. I get that some… recent events might’ve scared you and I’m glad you’ve taken note, but this is a bit much.” 

Jisung noticed Minho didn't sound mad anymore. Maybe he was wrong and overexaggerated earlier when he thought he’d put an unfixable rift in their friendship. Maybe that was just his panicked and whipped mind clouding his judgment. Maybe he didn't need this stupid potion, which was slowly driving him crazy, rendering him unable to say and do what he wanted.

“I’ve taken your advice regarding… said recent events. That’s why I’m doing my best to not pass it onto our customers,” Jisung murmured. He was starting to sound straight up corporate. He hated it.

“I get it, but it’s not necessary!” Minho raised his voice, annoyed with how stubborn Jisung was being.

“Better safe than sorry!” Jisung argued.

“Jisung!” 

Even under the effect of the potion, he stiffened in shock. He didn't expect Minho to yell. Before his smart mouth could argue further, he was already being dragged by the wrist to the staff room, away from ears reach.

Once the door shut behind them, Jisung was about to argue he still had customers waiting for him, but Minho beat him to it.

“What the hell is wrong with you!?”

It hurt to hear Minho so angry with him, but he couldn't answer what he was really thinking, “I’m just doing my job. I don't see what the fuss is about.”

“You’ve either drugged yourself again with who knows what or you’ve actually lost your mind. I’m not sure I even want to know, because I don't know what’s worse.” 

Jisung could swear he felt his heart cracking at the words, he was close to breaking down, but the potion pushed back even his tears, “You call safety precautions ‘losing my mind’?”

“If you’re so damn scared to fuck up the potions why are you even still working here!?” 

Jisung’s face was as dry as a desert, but in his mind he was already sobbing uncontrollably. Minho had never been so fed up with him. He’d never gone as far as to tell Jisung to quit his job. If he’d assumed things were done earlier, he was certain now.

“I have no idea what the fuck has gotten into you the past few days,” Minho continued, his voice quieter this time, “but going to these major lengths all because some guy you barely knew rejected you, and rightfully so after what you pulled, are you this fucking desperate!?” 

“I’m not-”

“It’s not going to work Jisung! Get that through that thick skull of yours! He. Does. Not. Like. You.”

Jisung wanted to scream, that none of what he said was true, that this wasn’t about Hyunjin, but about Minho. The one time he was so desperate to shout out the truth, he couldn't. If the effect by some miracle wore off right this minute, he wouldn't hesitate to come clean. But no amount of sheer will could break the wall this potion had built between his thoughts and actions.

“Honestly, Jisung, this time you went too far. I put up with you and your stupid idea the first time, despite that what you did was straight up illegal. You’re really lucky he let this go, otherwise both of our potion brewing days would have been long done for.”

No, please stop.

“I thought that was plenty and you’d learned your lesson but I clearly overestimated you!” Minho’s voice was rising again, “You clearly never learned and had no intention to! Will you ever stop to think that your actions have consequences!? That you can't just go with the first stupid idea that pops into your head!? When are you going to understand it’s time to stop!?” 

Make it stop. I can't do this anymore. Please, stop.

“And who has to put up with all this bullshit? Me! I did, because I’m your friend and I’m supposed to help you! But you’ve crossed the line if you think you can keep causing messes and expecting me to clean up after you. If that was your plan, you have a very messed up idea of our friendship.” 

Please, no, I swear I’m going to stop. That’s not what I thought, not ever for even a second. You have no idea how much I cherish you and love you and frankly I’m surprised you stuck around for this long, but never have I thought of you that way. Please, just give me time and I will explain.

“Frankly, I don't know what’s worse in this situation, because it’s all horrendous when you look at it. That you stooped this low over a petty crush or that you think you have to drug yourself to this extent to be likeable out of desperation. Probably the worst is that I have to watch it all unfold in front of my eyes without you giving a shit.” 

“I’m-” Jisung croaked, “I’m sorry.”

“You say that every time, Jisung. But you never mean it. Because you keep doing the same thing over and over again. You’re not really sorry. At least, I don't believe that you are.”

Before Jisung could even attempt to say anything else, trying his best to hold back the wrong response the potion would force out of him, Minho turned his back and left.

Jisung was alone. 

This was it. Minho was done with him. He’d made it clear. Jisung had gone too far and he didn't know if there was any going back.

His back slid down against the wall, until he sat limp on the floor. A single tear escaped his eyes, trickling down his cheek. 

But it was too late. There was no one to see him like this. Not anymore.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽∞☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

The next day Jisung called in sick for the first time. It was cowardly of him, he could admit that, but he couldn't bring himself to face Minho. Not yet. And if you asked him, a broken heart was an acceptable reason to use a sick day.

Jisung might not have been physically sick, but that didn't stop his body from feeling like he was. It felt like there was a hole where his heart was, a black hole that was constantly on the brink of caving in on itself and pulling Jisung in with it. He spent the entire morning in bed, the hours bleeding into one another and passing without much awareness from Jisung. He only felt compelled to move when his stomach growled loudly enough to pull him out of his trance, forcing him to tear his eyes away from the wall in front of him. 

Jisung groaned as he rolled onto his back and stared up at the ceiling. His phone had remained quiet all morning and it hurt him to realize that Minho hadn’t reached out to make sure that he was okay - he supposed Minho was done caring. He couldn’t really blame his friend - former friend? He wasn’t sure.

With a sigh Jisung forced himself out of bed and shuffled out of his room and to the kitchen. As much as he wanted to stay in bed and grieve the loss of his friendship due to his own stupidity, his stomach had other ideas. He grabbed a cup of ramen and shoved it into the microwave, chewing on his bottom lip as he watched the cup spin around in the microwave - Jisung thought he could relate to the cup; he too felt like he was spinning aimlessly. 

“A happiness potion would be helpful right now,” he mumbled bitterly to himself as he slurped on his ramen. He could almost laugh at the absurdity of the thought. Potions were exactly what had gotten him into this mess, yet here he was still thinking that a potion would be able to solve his problems. Maybe Minho was right - maybe he really never did learn from his mistakes.  

“You clearly never learned and had no intention to! Will you ever stop to think that your actions have consequences!?”

Jisung wanted to scream. He wanted to shout from the rooftops that he had more than learned that his actions have consequences. Here he was, sitting alone in his apartment and dealing with just that. 

What was worse than Minho pointing out the obvious - that Jisung could be stupid, impulsive, and reckless - was the fact that Minho thought that Jisung didn’t care about him. That Jisung had been so in his own head that he hadn’t realized the strain he had been putting on their friendship this whole time.

“You’re not really sorry. At least, I don't believe that you are.”

That’s what hurt the most. Jisung had gone too far - he had pushed Minho too far - and he didn’t know how to fix it. He didn’t think that he could fix it.

Jisung called in sick for a second day in a row. His phone rang at noon, but the name on the caller ID wasn’t one he expected to see. 

“Hyunjin?”

“Dude, are you okay?” Hyunjin’s voice came through the speaker and Jisung’s eyes squeezed shut in a weird combination of pain and gratitude - Hyunjin sounded worried. “I have literally never seen you take a day off and today is the second day in a row that you’re not here.”

“I don’t feel good,” Jisung answered lamely. It wasn’t a lie.

“Bullshit,” Hyunjin answered quickly. “I’ve seen you look like you were on the brink of death and still show up. Minho had to force you into the break room one time because he was convinced you were going to collapse. Why aren’t you at work?”

“I don’t feel good,” Jisung repeated, but the words sounded hollow even to his own ears.

Hyunjin stayed quiet for a moment and sighed softly before speaking again. “Jisung, have you eaten today?”

“Huh?”

“Food. Have you eaten? It’s practically lunch time.”

Jisung looked at the alarm clock near his bed and was surprised to realize what time it was. “Uh, no,” he said slowly. “I haven’t.”

“I’m coming by with lunch. This isn’t up for debate,” he added before Jisung could protest. “I’ll see you in a bit.” He hung up before Jisung could say anything else. 

Jisung stared up at his ceiling for a moment before forcing himself to get out of bed. He looked at himself in the mirror and decided a change of clothes was in order - he had been wearing the same clothes since he first got in bed two days ago. He recognized that a shower would have been the better option but he couldn't bring himself to make that much of an effort, so a change of clothes would have to suffice.

A change of clothes did not suffice. He opened the door to let Hyunjin inside his apartment and the other stared at him for a long moment before finally entering.

“You look like shit,” Hyunjin said bluntly as he walked past Jisung and walked to the living room, dropping himself down on the floor in front of the small table. “What happened?”

“I don't wanna talk about it,” Jisung mumbled, following behind him.

Hyunjin leveled him with a glare that had Jisung gulping. “Jisung, what happened? Something's not right. You keep missing work and Minho looks like he's ready to kill someone.”

“Minho always looks like he's ready to kill someone.”

Hyunjin grinned at this but shook his head. “No, he looks like he might actually do it now. I haven't seen him smile once.” His grin faded and he looked up at Jisung again, his brows furrowed in concern. “He doesn’t look happy, Jisung. Something is wrong. And you seem to be avoiding work. So I’m going to ask you again…what happened?”

Jisung was silent for a moment. He kept his gaze trained on the table when he finally decided to talk, finding it easier to trace the patterns of the wood than to look Hyunjin in the eye. “I happened,” he said softly, trying to keep his voice steady. “I’m too much and I’m too dumb and I happened, Hyunjin.”

“Did you confess to him?” Hyunjin asked softly.

Jisung shook his head, biting his lower lip to try to stay grounded. He could feel his eyes begin to water but the last thing he wanted to do was breakdown with Hyunjin sitting right next to him. “I-I couldn’t,” he said softly. “I was too scared, Hyunjin. I wanted to tell him but… I couldn’t. Not when I’m me. Not when I’m like this.”

“What do you mean not when you’re you?” Hyunjin questioned, his eyebrows raising comically despite the fact that Jisung wasn’t looking at him. “That’s the reason Minho likes you, dummy. You just have to be yourself.”

Jisung shook his head, finally looking up at Hyunjin. “Minho deserves someone who’s good. Someone who’s smart, like him. He shouldn’t be with someone who just causes problems for him.”

“Jisung-”

“No, Hyunjin, you don’t get it,” Jisung interrupted. “I’m so stupid. I messed up again. I messed up big time. And there’s no fixing things, okay? Minho is finally done with me. And honestly, he should have walked away sooner. I can’t believe he stayed so long but he should have walked away sooner. I deserve this.”

Hyunjin frowned, taking in the way Jisung’s tears were close to spilling over and the way his voice shook as he talked. “Jisung,” he said softly. “Tell me what happened. Whatever happened, I know it can be fixed. Just tell me what happened.”

Jisung shook his head. “It can’t be fixed, Hyunjin,” he said softly, finally allowing his tears to fall. “After we talked I knew that I needed to confess to Minho but I just… couldn’t bring myself to do it. I was so scared. How could Minho - someone as level-headed, smart, and responsible as Minho - like someone as reckless as me? It doesn’t add up. I just…I wanted to be good for him, Hyunjin. So… I made another potion.”

“You didn’t,” Hyunjin gasped, his eyes wide.

“Not on him,” Jisung clarified with a humorless laugh. “There’s no way I could get away with that - there’s no way I would try something like that again. I thought I could use a potion on myself. Something to make myself…better, you know? Something that could give me a little confidence but also something that would make me more worthy of being with Minho. But naturally….I messed up. And every time I messed up, Minho was there to fix things. To clean up my mess. But…I pushed him too much and he exploded. He thought I was using the potions to get you to like me.”

Hyunjin wasn’t able to stop himself from barking out a laugh at that. “You didn’t tell him that I do like you, did you?”

“No,” Jisung admitted - he at least had the decency to feel bad about it. “I thought he would kill me if I told him that after everything I ended up turning you down.”

“Still not over that,” Hyunjin sniffed, pretending to wipe away a tear. “You know he doesn’t hate you though, right?”

“Yes he does,” Jisung moaned. “He made it very clear that he was tired of our friendship. He hasn’t reached out to me once.”

“Maybe not,” Hyunjin allowed. “But I’m telling you, he doesn’t look happy. He misses you, Jisung.”

“Doubtful,” Jisung replied bitterly. “He suggested I should quit my job and basically told me that our friendship was over.”

“He was mad,” Hyunjin said simply. “And rightfully so. You know people say things they don’t mean when they’re angry.”

“I’m a fuck-up, Hyunjin,” Jisung said softly. “What would someone perfect like him want a fuck-up like me for? He’s better off without me.”

“Talk to him,” Hyunjin said sternly, pushing the food he brought in front of Jisung. “Don’t assume you know what he’s thinking. Go and actually talk to him. You might have messed up, Jisung, but you’re not a fuck-up. And take this from someone who knows - Minho likes you.”

Jisung’s eyes widened in disbelief. “There’s no way you can know that.”

“It’s easy to know,” Hyunjin said with a shrug, turning his attention away from Jisung and towards the food in front of him. “Take it from someone who likes you - I know what it looks like.”

Jisung fell silent at this, grabbing his chopsticks and piling some food onto his plate. “Present tense?” he asked softly.

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow at this, his cheeks so stuffed full of food that it was almost impossible for him to speak. “Huh?”

“You said take it from someone who likes you. Present tense.”

Hyunjin just shrugged. He swallowed down the food in his mouth with a grimace. “Present tense,” he confirmed once his mouth wasn’t stuffed full of food. “Those feelings don’t vanish over night. You should know.”

Jisung’s cheeks heated at that and he looked down at his food, pushing it around on his plate. He felt a mixture of embarrassment and guilt - here was Hyunjin being a good friend, listening to him rant about his crush, while still having feelings of his own. Jisung felt like he just couldn’t get anything right.

“I don’t deserve you as a friend, either,” Jisung murmured.

Hyunjin groaned at this and punched Jisung in the arm. He ignored Jisung’s yelp of surprise and continued talking. “I'm going to need you to stop with the self hate now,” he said seriously. “You are amazing, Jisung, and people love you for a reason. We all make mistakes. What matters is what you do after those mistakes. What matters is how you learn from them. Making mistakes doesn't make you unworthy of friendship and it doesn't make you unloveable, okay? It makes you human.”

Jisung nodded, his eyes filling with tears again. “I don't know what I did to deserve you as a friend,” he said softly.

“Existed,” Hyunjin said simply, smiling at Jisung. “That's enough.”

Jisung wanted to believe him. He wanted to believe that simply existing was enough - that simply existing meant that he was enough. They fell into a comfortable silence as they ate and Jisung was surprised to realize that he felt a little bit better.

“Hey, Jisung?”

“Hm?”

“Have you ever considered the possibility that Minho made a mistake?”

Jisung looked up from his food, his brows furrowed in confusion. “What?”

“When he exploded on you,” Hyunjin said calmly. “Minho was mad, I know that. But did you ever think that maybe he didn't mean everything he said? Did you ever think that maybe he's just as scared of losing you as you are of losing him?”

No, Jisung had never thought anything of the sort. The thought seemed impossible to him. He shook his head in response and Hyunjin smiled at him.

“Maybe consider it,” he said.

Jisung didn't know if he could consider it, but he guessed he could try. Hyunjin left not too long after, but not before making Jisung promise him that he would go back to work and talk things out with Minho. The promise made him feel sick to his stomach but he did it anyway. Somehow, someway, Jisung was going to settle this once and for all. 

The next day Jisung walked into Dream Cafe with his letter of resignation in hand. He nervously walked up to the register and waited for Minho to turn around and notice he was there. Minho was currently bent over the back counter and though Jisung couldn’t see him, he knew that his friend was busy measuring out ingredients for a potion. He had worked alongside Minho long enough that he could imagine the focused look on Minho’s face. He could imagine the way Minho’s eyes narrowed as he focused and the way his lips pulled up into the barest whisper of a smile as he fingers danced across the ingredients - the art of potion making was one of the things that made Minho light up with happiness, and Jisung knew just how to spot that small, bright light within him.

Minho straightened up and slid the cup across the pick-up counter before turning to Jisung. 

“Hi, welcome…” Minho’s voice trailed off as he realized who was standing in front of the counter, his brown eyes widening just slightly. The difference in his gaze would have been impossible to spot by anyone else, but Jisung had spent years observing Minho.

“Hi Minho,” he said softly.

“You’re late,” Minho said simply, staring at Jisung as if he couldn’t believe he was actually there.

“What?”

“You’re late,” Minho responded slowly, crossing his arms over his chest. “Your shift starts at 7am and it’s 9am. You’re two hours late.”

Jisung raised an eyebrow at this. “Not really,” he answered just as slowly, raising the letter in his hand and waving it weakly. “I’m taking your advice.”

Minho’s brow furrowed in confusion for a moment as he tried to understand what Jisung was saying and then his eyes widened again. Minho wasn’t subtle with his expression this time, a change that Jisung wasn’t expecting. “Tell me that’s not what I think it is,” he growled. He leaned forward and plucked the letter out of Jisung’s hand before he could answer.

“Minho-”

“Back room,” Minho snapped, glaring at Jisung after his eyes had raked over the letter that he was now gripping tightly. “Now.”

Jisung knew better than to argue with Minho. He hunched his shoulders as if that could protect him from Minho’s anger and made his way to the break room. He could feel Minho’s presence behind him more than he could actually hear him walk - anger was radiating off of him in waves so strong that Jisung thought he might drown under the weight of them.

“What the hell is this, Jisung?” Minho snapped, throwing the letter down on the table. “Why are you quitting?”

Anger flashed in Jisung’s own eyes for a moment but the emotion faded quickly, replaced by a deep sadness that Jisung thought he could feel in his bones. “Because you’re right, Minho. You said it yourself. I shouldn’t work here.”

“That’s not what I said,” Minho countered.

“It’s what you implied.”

“You weren’t yourself!” Minho cried, exasperated. “Jisung, I don’t know who you’ve been the past week but you have not been the Jisung I knew, the Jisung I grew up with. I had to say something. I had to do something.”

“Then you know you were speaking the truth,” Jisung said with a shrug. “Let’s be real - I suck at making potions anyway. Potions are your thing. Clearly I can’t make one to save my life.”

“You fuck them up because you ignore the recipes and try to make your own shit,” Minho countered with a roll of his eyes. “You’re fine when you actually follow the recipes and do what you’re supposed to do. That’s a lame reason to quit and you know it. Cut the bullshit.”

“Then what am I supposed to do, Minho? Come work here knowing that my best friend - that my former best friend - hates me? I can’t do that. Especially not with how I feel. It’s easier if I leave.”

“Jisung, you are such an idiot,” Minho spat through grit teeth. “I don’t hate you. How could I ever hate you?” His voice broke on the last word and Jisung startled, his eyes widening.

“B-because I’m reckless,” Jisung whispered. “I’m reckless and impulsive and all I do is bring you trouble.”

“That may be true,” Minho sighed, his voice quieter now than it was in the beginning. “But that has been true since I met you and it was never enough for me to push you away.”

“I figured you hit your breaking point,” Jisung mumbled, dropping his gaze to the floor. 

“I hit my breaking point because you were drugging yourself,” Minho cried, his voice breaking again. “Jisung, do you know what it was like to watch you keep giving yourself potion after potion. And for what? Just to get Hyunjin to like you? You may be an idiot but you’ve never been that desperate, Jisung, and it was killing me! Imagine if you had watched me do that to myself. What the hell would you do if you were in my place, Jisung? If you had to watch as someone you love drugged themselves in an attempt to be likeable? As if they’re not already enough. As if they’re not already more than enough. I couldn’t take it anymore.”

Jisung’s heart clenched painfully in his chest and suddenly the room they were in felt too small - it felt too tight to contain the emotions coming from both himself and from Minho. The emotions coming from Minho were raw and painful. Jisung couldn’t remember the last time he had heard Minho hurt like that. He didn’t know if he had ever hurt Minho as bad as he did this time.

“Min, I’m sorry,” Jisung said. His voice sounded strange in his own ears, his throat tight as he tried desperately not to cry. “I-I didn’t think about how it looked. I didn’t think about what it must have done to you. A-and I know you might not believe me and I understand. I really do. But Minho, I am so sorry.” 

He chanced a look up at his best friend and what he saw broke his heart. Minho was staring back at him with tears in his eyes, biting down hard on his lower lip in what Jisung knew was an attempt to steady it.

Jisung broke. “None of it was ever about Hyunjin,” he admitted, unable to stop the tears that were falling down his cheeks. “A-after everything happened I realized… I realized that Hyunjin wasn’t the one I wanted. And I know how stupid that is Minho. I know how wrong it is, after I made that damn love potion and almost cost both of us our jobs. I know. But Minho…the potions afterwards… they were all for you,” he admitted. 

He sank into the chair next to him and ran his hands through his hair despite knowing he was just making a mess of it. “The first potion I fucked up was Coffee of Candor. I wanted to admit my feelings to you but I was scared…I thought that I just needed a little push, you know? Clearly I fucked that up. The second potion..” Jisung paused and laughed bitterly to himself as he thought about how dumb it was. “Well, you figured out the second one. It was a potion to make me more attractive. I’m a bit of a dumbass though… that potion was meant to make you more attracted to me, but obviously I can’t target it like that unless I give you a potion. So…everyone found me attractive. The third potion was something I was sure would work, Minho. I was so sure. Fool’s Antidote. Because I’m an idiot and…I just wanted not to be. Just for a minute. Just long enough for you to notice and think that wow, for once I was doing something right.”

Jisung fell quiet and Minho didn’t respond for a moment. Minho dragged out the chair across from Jisung and the sound rang out in the quiet room as he sat down. Jisung forced himself to look back up at Minho and was met with his friend’s intense gaze. For the first time in a long time, Jisung couldn’t tell what Minho was thinking. The tears that his friend had been trying to hold back were gone now and he was no longer biting his lower lip, but his brown eyes were clouded with so many emotions that Jisung couldn’t tell what was what.

“Why would you do that?” Minho asked softly.

Jisung furrowed his brows in confusion. “Isn’t it obvious?” he asked slowly.

“Say it.”

Jisung sighed but he didn’t argue - this was what he had come here to do, after all. “I like you, Minho,” he said. He was surprised that his voice didn’t waver. “I like you as more than a friend. I…I love you. And I know we’ve said that to each other before, because that’s what best friends do, right? They love each other. And I do love you. I love you so much…and so much more than a friend should. It scared me. I didn’t know what to do and I didn’t know how to tell you. I should have known that I could just…tell you. Just tell you like this. Because that’s what best friends do, right? They’re honest with each other. So here’s me, being open and honest with you. Finally. Like I should have been this entire time.”

Minho was silent throughout the entire admission, watching Jisung with sharp eyes and his mouth slightly agape. Jisung didn’t know what to expect from him when he spoke again, but he was scared. He was scared for the inevitable rejection. Scared that Minho would tell him that he really should leave. He couldn’t have predicted the whisper of a smile that played on his best friend’s lips.

“Jisung,” Minho said softly. “Have I ever told you that you’re an idiot? A complete and utter moron?”

“Once or twice,” Jisung mumbled, shifting uncomfortably in his seat and looking down at his hands.

“Have I ever told you that you’re my idiot?”

Jisung looked up to find Minho smiling fondy at him. He shook his head dumbly, unable to respond.

“Jisung, you’re an idiot, you really are. But you are my idiot. I don’t want you to be perfect. I don’t want you to get everything right all of the time - that’s my job. I have stood by your side for years and loved you just as you are. Why would that change?”

“Loving someone as a friend isn’t the same as loving them…you know,” Jisung mumbled. “I can’t believe you stayed by my side as a friend, I really can’t. There’s no way I can imagine you sticking around for anything more than that.”

Minho leaned forward and gently took Jisung’s hands in his own, shaking his head as he did so. “I care about you, you idiot.”

“I care about you, you idiot!”

They were the exact words that Minho had shouted at him outside of the cafe after Jisung had ruined his fake date with Hyunjin. They were the exact words that had shaken Jisung to his core and made him begin to question everything. They were Jisung’s undoing.

“But I care about you more,” he whispered shakily.

Minho laughed at this and shook his head, his lips pulling up into a smirk. “Jisung, you blind idiot. I have been in love with you for the past year.”

Jisung stared blankly at Minho, unable to comprehend the words that came out of his mouth. “I-I’m sorry. You what?”

Minho just smirked in response, letting Jisung take the time he needed to let the words sink in.

“Then why the hell would you help me try to date Hyunjin?” he all but screamed, pulling his hands out of Minho’s so that he could wave his hands aggressively. “It doesn’t make any sense. Lee Minho, this isn’t a joke. I’m being serious here.”

Minho leaned back in his seat and crossed his arms over his chest, his smirk never fading. “I already told you. I care about you. That’s why I helped you. It didn’t matter if I had feelings for you. What mattered was making you happy.”

Jisung let his hands drop into his lap and he stared back at Minho. He took in the sparkle in his brown eyes, the arrogant smirk that curled his lips, the way he felt like his Minho again. “Does that mean you care about me more?” he asked quietly.

“Infinitely,” Minho confirmed. “Does this mean you’ll shred that stupid resignation letter and come back?”

Minho was asking if Jisung would come back to the cafe, but Jisung knew him well enough to know what he was really asking. Will you come back to me?

Jisung smiled and nodded. “Yes. Yes, I’ll come back. I’m sorry I ever left.”

Jisung sat in the cafe cradling the mug of coffee that Minho had made him when they left the breakroom. He was given a free pass from Minho not to work and had been sent into the cafe with a small smile. Minho’s question was heard when he passed Jisung a coffee free of charge. Will you stay? And who was Jisung to say no.

Minho sat across from him on his break, looking at Jisung with a smile so impossibly fond that Jisung thought his heart might burst. 

“You never gave it back, you know,” Minho said suddenly, cocking his head as he looked at Jisung.

“What?”

“The confidence potion I gave you for Hyunjin,” Minho said nonchalantly, but his lips twitched as he tried not to smile. “I just couldn’t help but notice that you never gave it back.”

The implication was clear. Jisung decided that his heart no longer felt like it was going to burst. “I was going to give it back to you earlier, asshole,” Jisung grumbled, taking the potion vial out of his pocket and sliding it across the table to Minho. “I got distracted.”

Minho’s eyes widened as he grabbed the vial and found that it was still full. “You didn’t use it.” He sounded delighted.

“Of course not,” Jisung muttered. “I’m never using another potion again.”

Minho tipped his head back and laughed, the sound loud and full, and Jisung couldn’t help but smile in response. He leaned across the table to put his hand in Minho’s without thinking. Minho smiled at him and squeezed his hand in response, his eyes still dancing with laughter.

“I love you, Minho.”

Minho’s smile grew. “I love you too, Jisung.”

Somehow, despite every time he had messed up and every mess that Minho had had to clean up, Minho still didn’t hate him. Jisung didn’t know what he had done to deserve a love like this but he knew better than to ever let it go. He didn’t let go of Minho’s hand as he grabbed his coffee and took a drink - he could stay like this forever.

Neither Minho nor Jisung noticed the twinkling of the chime as the cafe door opened, but it was impossible to miss Hyunjin as he bellowed. “It’s about fucking time!”

Minho rolled his eyes and Jisung choked on his coffee as Hyunjin cackled in the background. He looked up to glare at his friend and found Hyunjin smiling back at him, his gaze incredibly fond, and his resolve broke. 

Hyunjin invited himself to their table and teased the both of them, announcing that them getting together took so long he thought he might die. This, Jisung thought as he looked between Minho and Hyunjin as they argued, was something he could get used to. This was something he never wanted to lose.