Espresso in The Rain

Noah wasn't sure how he got here.

One minute, he was convinced he'd avoid Perth's invitation, that he'd conveniently forget about the so-called night out. But then, Elias had texted him the address. No pressure. No expectation. Just a simple message:

"If you don't want to, don't come. But if you do… I'll be there."

And that had done it.

That was how Noah now found himself in a dimly lit, upscale bar, nursing a drink and watching Perth laugh loudly with a group of friends at a nearby booth. The place was a mix of class and chaos—low-hanging lights, smooth jazz playing over the speakers, and people either drowning in conversation or lost in the music.

Noah tugged at the sleeves of his fitted black shirt, slightly uncomfortable. He wasn't used to this—the social atmosphere, the buzz of people, the subtle flirtations in the air. It wasn't his scene.

But then there was Elias.

Standing behind the bar, effortlessly mixing drinks, his dark hair slightly tousled, sleeves rolled up to reveal his toned forearms. He looked different here—more at ease, more in his element.

And the worst part?

He kept looking at Noah.

Every now and then, in between serving customers, Elias's gaze would flicker to him—brief but deliberate.

It was infuriating.

And yet, Noah found himself holding onto those stolen glances like they meant something.

"Regretting it already?"

Noah barely had time to react before Perth plopped down beside him, draping an arm over the back of the seat.

"I could've been at home," Noah muttered.

Perth snorted. "And miss all this?" He gestured dramatically to the bar, then leaned in. "Or are you just distracted by a certain someone?"

Noah stiffened. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Perth smirked. "Sure you don't."

Before Noah could retort, Elias appeared, placing a fresh drink in front of him.

"You looked like you needed a refill," Elias said smoothly.

Noah frowned. "I didn't order anything."

Elias shrugged. "On the house."

Perth whistled under his breath. "Damn. Free drinks? Elias must really like you."

Elias shot Perth a warning look, but the damage was already done.

Noah could feel the heat creeping up his neck, unsure whether it was from the alcohol or the way Elias's fingers lingered on the glass before pulling away.

"Enjoy," Elias murmured, before walking off to tend to another customer.

Perth grinned. "You have to see it now."

Noah exhaled sharply, grabbing his drink.

He had no idea what game Elias was playing.

But whatever it was, Noah was already losing.