An Innocent Criminal [Chanyeol X Reader]

27

As confusion filled Chanyeol's mind, he couldn't help but ask, "Who is she?" His gaze shifted between Jieun and Taeyeon, searching for answers. However, Jieun remained silent, tightly gripping Chanyeol's hand as she led him away. "Bye, oppa," she uttered, completely ignoring Taeyeon. The sudden dismissal left Taeyeon feeling disheartened, and tears welled up in her eyes. Baekhyun, unsure of how to console her, simply placed a comforting hand on her back, offering his support.

Inside the cafe, Baekhyun tried to lighten the mood, knowing well that laughter could be a potent remedy for sorrow. He nudged Taeyeon playfully and said, "You know, they say laughter is the best medicine. Let's make sure we overdose on it today!" He flashed her a mischievous grin, hoping to coax a smile out of her troubled face.

Taeyeon, touched by his attempt to lift her spirits, chuckled softly. "You always have a way of making me smile, Baekhyun. Thank you," she said sincerely, wiping away the last traces of tears. Baekhyun, pleased with her reaction, replied, "Well, what are friends for if not to make each other laugh, right?" He nudged her once again, this time almost toppling her coffee cup. They burst into laughter, their infectious giggles drawing the attention of other customers in the cafe.

As they sat at a cosy corner table, Baekhyun continued his mission to brighten Taeyeon's mood. He pulled funny faces, imitating various expressions and characters, eliciting genuine laughter from Taeyeon. "Oh my goodness, Baekhyun, you're ridiculous!" she exclaimed between fits of laughter, holding onto her sides. "I'm glad I can be your personal court jester," Baekhyun replied with a mock bow.

Their laughter echoed through the cafe, momentarily banishing their worries and sorrows. The surrounding patrons couldn't help but smile at the sight of these two friends, finding solace and joy in each other's company.

With each passing moment, Baekhyun's comedic antics grew bolder. He mimicked exaggerated dance moves, making Taeyeon giggle uncontrollably. The cafe atmosphere became filled with the sound of their laughter, as if their joy had infused the very air around them.

As the laughter subsided, Baekhyun gazed at Taeyeon with genuine affection. "You know, Taeyeon, your smile is like a ray of sunshine. It brightens up the dullest of days," he said, his eyes sparkling with warmth. Taeyeon blushed, feeling a surge of gratitude for Baekhyun's unwavering support and lightheartedness.

Together, they savoured their coffee, engaged in light-hearted banter, and shared stories that brought smiles to their faces. In that moment, Baekhyun's presence served as a gentle reminder that, no matter the challenges they faced, they would always find solace and laughter in each other's company.

And so, within the confines of that cafe, amidst their shared laughter and heartfelt conversations, Taeyeon found a glimmer of hope, and Baekhyun found fulfilment in knowing that he could bring a smile to her face even in the darkest of times.

~

Amidst their distressing encounter, Jieun's emotions overwhelmed her. Tears streamed down her face as she spoke, her voice choked with sadness. "I'm sorry. She is my sister. As much as I love her, it hurts that my family didn't come to see me. And now, after all the chaos, they're searching for me," she confessed, her words punctuated by sobs. "I wanted to be with my family, but it seems like they don't need me anymore."

Chanyeol, feeling a surge of empathy, pulled her into a warm embrace, seeking to provide solace. "Jieun, I understand that you may be upset, but please listen to me," he implored gently, sighing before continuing. "My true family is no longer with me. I have no one except for you. But your family is searching for you. There must be reasons why they haven't been able to meet you. Try to understand their perspective. You should hear Taeyeon out too." Tenderly, he brushed his fingers across her tear-streaked cheeks, his touch offering comfort and reassurance.

Jieun, nodding through her sobs, found solace in Chanyeol's words. If they weren't entangled in this complicated situation, Chanyeol would have undoubtedly remarked on how adorable she looked, even while crying. Deep inside, he realised he had fallen head over heels for her.

"I'm grateful to have you by my side," Jieun murmured, clinging tightly to him. The warmth of his embrace enveloped her, providing a sense of security amidst the chaos of her emotions. "I'll give it a try," she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of gratitude and determination. In that moment, they stayed locked in each other's arms, finding solace and strength in their shared embrace.

Chanyeol couldn't help but steal glances at Jieun as she drifted into a peaceful slumber in the comfort of his car. Her serene beauty captivated him, and he couldn't deny the overwhelming feelings that had blossomed within him. Gently, he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, his gaze tracing the contours of her face. He found himself admiring her eyes, then her nose, and finally, his eyes lingered on her lips. A whirlwind of emotions surged within him, and a desperate whisper escaped his lips, "I love you."

However, even in the midst of his affection, Chanyeol knew that it was wrong to act upon his desires. He vigorously shook his head, attempting to dispel those thoughts. "No," he whispered to himself, battling against his own longing. But despite his internal struggle, he couldn't entirely resist the temptation. Nervously, he bit his own lip, transfixed by the image of Jieun's lips, silently yearning for a moment that he knew he couldn't indulge in.

The atmosphere inside the car grew heavy with unspoken desires and a silent confession of love, yet Chanyeol found the strength to respect the boundaries and protect their connection until the timing was right.