You hadn’t expected London to feel so quiet in the morning. The rain had stopped, finally, and your boots clicked lightly against the stone path as you stepped into a small coffee shop tucked between a bookstore and an art gallery. The bell above the door chimed once.

Warmth greeted you immediately vanilla, espresso, something faintly floral. The lights were soft, golden. Indie guitar whispered from the overhead speakers.

Your gaze swept across the room, and there he was. Heeseung stood behind the counter, pouring steamed milk with effortless precision. The soft glow of the coffee machine traced the line of his profile. He hadn’t seen you yet, but you’d know that sleek black hair and navy apron anywhere.

Then his head lifted. His eyes met yours. For a heartbeat, surprise flickered—then melted into something softer. The corner of his mouth curved faintly upward.

“Didn’t expect to see you here,” he said, his voice warm, smooth, like the coffee he made.

You stepped closer, arms folding loosely. “Is the legend of the charming barista true?” you teased.

Heeseung chuckled, glancing away, and a faint blush colored his cheeks. “Depends who’s asking,” he murmured, reaching for the espresso beans.

He moved with quiet focus, sliding the milk pitcher aside, adjusting the portafilter, the hiss of steam filling the space between you. “Sweet,” he asked without looking up, “or regular sweet?”

You raised a brow. “Surprise me.”

He hummed under his breath, something like a melody. As the espresso brewed, he stole a glance at you, Pretending not to notice that you caught him every time.

A few minutes later, he approached your table. In his hands: a warm porcelain cup. A perfectly poured cappuccino, foam swirled into the shape of a delicate heart.

“One extra sweet cappuccino,” he said, eyes flicking to yours, “for someone who deserves it.”

Your smile curled slow and amused. “Are you always this gentle when dealing with customers?”

He laughed, scratching the back of his neck, a little sheepish now. “Only the ones who make my heart beat when they walk in.”

You blinked. For a beat, there was silence. Not awkward just… full. Of something unspoken. Then Heeseung smiled again and turned back toward the counter.

But somehow, the air between you had changed. And the heart in your cup hadn't even begun to cool.