Clap - 4

The amount listed on the part-time job site was 10,000 won per hour. But 20,000 won! Just for cleaning! Maybe it was because he was well-off. Or maybe he had OCD and couldn’t tolerate a speck of dust.

Whatever the reason, Jaemin vowed to dedicate his pitiful self entirely. The hourly wage was 20,000 won. It was not bad compared to some mid-sized companies.

“Is it too much? I called you in generously because I thought you would do well.”

Ihyun chuckled, flashing a mischievous smile.

“I’ll do well. I’ll work hard at anything. Just tell me what to do. Really.”

Jaemin promised earnestly. Ihyun chuckled softly. Jaemin’s eager eyes made him seem cute.

“When can you start working? We’re a bit… in a hurry. We’ve been waiting for a while.”

It was a strange thing to say. The hospital was spotless even now. Why were they in such a hurry, and why would they wait so long for a cleaner? But Jaemin didn’t mind.

“I can start right away today.”

“Oh, really? But I want to introduce you to my colleague. Is it okay to start from tomorrow?”

Jaemin’s fingertips trembled. A colleague? Was there another person? Then, if the boss was two people, that was a bit uncomfortable. You had to please everyone. He could do well like a dog, but his lack of tact was the problem. No matter how much he nodded and bowed, once he let his guard down, he became an ill-mannered kid.

But if the person was similar to Ihyun, it might be okay.

As Jaemin was about to nod, Ihyun cleared his throat.

“He’s the person I work with. He’s not here today because of a seminar. Don’t be too nervous… No, maybe you should be nervous…”

“…Yes?”

“Hmm… If Jaemin is nervous, what will change? Just come casually.”

Ihyun pondered alone and came to a conclusion. Jaemin nodded briefly.

“What time should I come tomorrow?”

“Come at seven.”

“In the evening?”

“Yes.”

It was an odd time. But Ihyun didn’t delve further. Perhaps they didn’t want to clean when there were patients around. Ihyun checked the time, crumpled the paper cup, and stood up. Jaemin stood up as well.

Ihyun extended his hand, offering a handshake.

“See you tomorrow, Jaemin. Definitely.”

“Yes. See you tomorrow. Definitely.”

Jaemin clasped Ihyun’s hand with both of his. His large, firm hand was cold. The temperature made Jaemin’s fingertips quickly cool down.

The handshake lasted a long time. Ihyun didn’t let go. So Jaemin had no choice but to hold on. After a few seconds, Ihyun finally released his hand. Their fingers intertwined deeply before unraveling.

Jaemin hid his hand behind his back and wiped his palm on his clothes. The lingering warmth of Ihyun’s hand gave him a strange feeling.

“Goodbye then.”

Ihyun waved with a smile. Jaemin awkwardly bowed twice and left the hospital. He walked down the corridor and pressed the elevator button.

His hand still tingled.

The next day, Jaemin arrived at the hospital ten minutes before seven. The hospital, now done with appointments, was quiet like the day before. The only difference was two dental hygienists tidying up and Ihyun, wearing glasses, standing crookedly while looking at charts.

“Hello.”

Jaemin greeted them with a deep bow. The three pairs of eyes naturally turned towards Jaemin.

“Our appointments are over.”

One of the dental hygienists said. Jaemin took a step back unknowingly.