Jisung

The neon signs of Tokyo were just starting to flicker on, casting a warm, colorful glow over the crowded streets. Jisung walked a step ahead, a half-empty paper cup of hot matcha latte warming his hands. He was enthusiastically rambling about some random song he’d heard in a clothing store, gesturing dynamically to make his point.

It was getting noticeably colder. A sudden gust of wind blew a stray strand of hair across Jisung’s face, making him shiver and instinctively pull his oversized hoodie tighter around himself. Before he could even finish his sentence, Minho reached out. Jisung froze for a second as Minho casually adjusted the collar of his jacket, tucking the fabric closer to his neck to block out the chill.

— You should’ve taken a warmer coat, Minho muttered. His fingers briefly brushed against the skin of Jisung’s neck. They were freezing, and the sudden contrast made Jisung's breath hitch for a split second.

He stopped talking entirely, blinking at Minho in surprise, before letting out a slightly embarrassed laugh. — I didn't think it would drop this fast.

— You never do, Minho replied, his voice lacking any real bite. Jisung noticed how he naturally took a half-step closer, casually using his own body to block the worst of the wind.

They turned into a narrower alley lined with small izakayas and ramen shops. Jisung took another sip of his drink, his shoulder comfortably bumping into Minho’s as they navigated the small crowd. He scanned the street, looking for a good place to sit and warm up, acutely aware of Minho keeping a steady pace right next to him so they wouldn't get separated in the rush.

Suddenly, a small cafe window caught his eye. Jisung stopped in his tracks, staring at the neat rows of strawberry daifuku on display.

— Look at those. Should we get some?

He turned to Minho, an expectant spark in his eyes.

— Only if you're buying, Minho teased, already reaching for the door handle to let Jisung step inside first.