Chapter 22 - Kiss and Make up (3)

"Look, I'm sorry. No, let me finish," Aki said when Liam tried to protest. "I know it's unfair of me to ask you to pretend we don't know each other outside. But not because of you! It's me, I have a bad image. You even have a rumor because of me."

"The rumor is nothing. Don't mind it. I know I don't. Let people talk. I'm happy you don't hate me, that's all," Liam said and smiled, so warm, it radiated in the entire apartment. "And no, there's no need to be sorry. I understand your concern. So now, can we put this thing behind us?"

Aki nodded.

"Then, let's eat," Liam gestured at the foods in front of them.

He took his servings and had a bite… and another one… and one more. This guy's cooking skills were god level! Liam was a hero in his eyes right now.

"So. Good!" Aki said.

Liam blushed. Not just because of the compliment but with the way Aki looked right now, his sparkling eyes and bulging cheeks. He was just too cute! Oh, what he would not give to pinch those cheeks right now…

"You are a really good cook," Aki kept on fawning over Liam.

"I've always loved cooking ever since my grandmother taught me about it."

Aki included that new information on his mental list of Liam's profile -- had a grandmother. Hobbies: cooking.

"One of my childhood dreams was to have my own cafe," Liam confessed.

"Then I'll be your regular customer!" Aki blurted out.

Liam laughed and tried to hide his blush, but failed. The more he tried, the wider his flush spreads.

He's blushing. Hehe.

The embarrassed Liam in front of Aki made him want to tease the other guy some more. He was just so adorable, turning pink until the tips of his ears. It was not every day to see the school idol flustered.

Liam cleared his throat and gestured at the books scattered on the floor. "Are you studying for the exams?"

Aki nodded and acted like he did not notice the change of topic. "I really need the scholarship. But I've also been really sleepy lately. As you have seen," he added sheepishly.

There was no point in acting tough. Liam had probably seen him more drooling than studying.

Liam thought for a while. "Do you… want to study together? I need to study as well."

Then he added as if an afterthought, "and I can wake you up if you ever fall asleep."

Aki considered. It would be a lot helpful to have someone to study with. He kept on sleeping when he was alone. If he was with Liam, he would feel more pressured and accountable with someone to remind him. Besides, Liam was known for being a bright student in their department.

"I only wake up if there's food." Aki grinned.

They stared at each other. Then Liam grinned back. Soon, their laughter reverberated throughout the house.

That night, Aki slept soundly for the first time in weeks.