Espresso in The Rain

Noah never knew that three simple words could change everything.

But the moment he told Elias he loved him, it was as if something inside him finally clicked into place.

It felt right.

For the first time in a long time, he wasn't running.

And Elias… Elias had pulled him close, held him like he was something precious, and whispered those same words back.

They had spent the rest of the night wrapped around each other, talking in hushed voices, exchanging slow kisses.

Noah hadn't left.

Not that night.

Not the next morning.

And now, three days later, he was still here.

---

Morning at The Roasted Heaven

Noah sat at the counter, nursing a cup of coffee while watching Elias work.

The café was bustling with its usual morning crowd, but his eyes were only on Elias.

The way he moved behind the counter—efficient, confident, completely in his element. The way he smiled at customers, always polite but never too personal.

And yet, every time their eyes met, Elias' expression softened in a way that was only meant for Noah.

It sent warmth curling in Noah's chest.

"Ugh."

Noah turned to see Santa sliding onto the stool next to him, looking thoroughly unimpressed.

"What?" Noah asked, raising an eyebrow.

Santa rested her chin on her hand and sighed dramatically. "You two are sickeningly cute."

Noah rolled his eyes, but he couldn't fight the smile tugging at his lips.

Santa grinned. "It's kinda nice, though."

Before Noah could respond, another voice cut in.

"Santa, stop harassing my customers."

Noah turned just in time to see Perth walking over, arms crossed, an exasperated look on his face.

Santa gasped. "Harassing? Excuse me, but I am an esteemed guest at this fine establishment."

Perth snorted. "More like a permanent nuisance."

Santa placed a hand on her chest, looking offended. "You wound me, Perth."

Perth ignored her and turned to Noah instead. "I see you're still hanging around."

Noah smirked. "Get used to it."

Perth just gave him a long look before nodding slightly. "Good."

Noah blinked. He hadn't expected that.

Santa noticed too. "Aww, are you finally approving of Noah and Elias?"

Perth huffed. "I never disapproved."

Santa gasped dramatically. "Lies! You were so skeptical about Noah."

Perth rolled his eyes. "I was just looking out for Elias."

Santa smirked. "And now?"

Perth exhaled, glancing at Noah before shrugging. "He makes Elias happy. That's enough for me."

Noah felt something warm settle in his chest.

Perth wasn't the easiest person to win over.

But this… this felt like acceptance.

---

Later That Evening

Noah stood in front of Elias' apartment window, looking out at the Bangkok skyline.

The city was alive—lights flickering, cars honking, the distant sound of laughter from the street below.

It felt so different from the life he had always imagined for himself.

He had spent years following a path laid out for him.

Being the perfect son. The perfect student.

But here, in this moment, with Elias standing behind him, arms wrapping around his waist—he finally felt like himself.

Elias rested his chin on Noah's shoulder. "You're quiet."

Noah leaned back into him. "Just thinking."

Elias hummed. "About?"

Noah turned in his arms, looking up at him. "Us."

Elias brushed his fingers along Noah's cheek. "Good things, I hope."

Noah smiled. "Yeah. Good things."

Elias studied him for a moment before asking, "Do you regret it?"

Noah frowned. "Regret what?"

"Coming back. Choosing this."

Noah didn't even hesitate. "Never."

Elias exhaled, relief evident in his expression.

Noah reached up, cupping his face. "I'm exactly where I want to be."

Elias kissed him—slow and deep, like he wanted to memorize the moment.

When they finally pulled apart, Noah whispered, "I love you."

Elias smiled against his lips. "I love you too."

And this time, there was no hesitation.

No more fear.

Just them.

Together.