Our Place || Muke ✔️

35

Luke and Michael had started their relationship just a few weeks before Christmas but it felt like they had been together for a lifetime. The holiday season had been magical, filled with cozy moments by the fireplace and heartfelt exchanges of gifts. With each passing day, their obsession for each other had grown stronger and more wild.

As winter turned to spring, the world around them seemed to bloom. The trees, once bare and shivering, now burst with vibrant green leaves, mirroring the vibrancy of their emotions. Their relationship was no longer hidden behind closed doors, it was out in the open, shining brightly for all to see.

Yet, there was one curious aspect of their relationship that continued to puzzle their friends and acquaintances. Even Michael was sometimes confused. Luke and Michael didn't really hold hands in public or kiss. It wasn't because they were afraid or ashamed. Michael guessed that it was simply because their friendship had always been the cornerstone of their connection. They weren't used to holding hands in public so it kind of became second nature to them to continue acting like friends. Nobody really seemed to catch on.

They reveled in the dynamics of their everyday life. Walking to class together, they would playfully exchange dirty jokes, teasing each other mercilessly. Their banter was like music to their ears, a reminder of the bond they had formed long before they became more than friends.

Ever since that night they had arrived back on campus after their road trip, their night time activity became somewhat of a nightly ritual. The pair would often find themselves underneath the warm blankets of Michael's bed, stark naked. Luke was becoming much more comfortable with his body and more open to trying new things. Michael was a great teacher. Luke couldn't get enough of the black haired boy.

One sunny Saturday towards the end of January, Luke and Michael decided to plan a get-together with Ashton and his usual little band of friends Nia, Jack and Alex. It was a perfect day for a day at the local park where they could relax, enjoy good food and bask in each other's company. Luke had grown to love Ashton's friends but was always too awkward to call them his own friends. He was too reserved like that. Michael however, classed the three bubbly individuals as his own friends. He absolutely loved them and the happiness and laughter they would bring with them constantly.

The morning sun bathed the park in a warm glow as Luke and Michael arrived early to set up their little picnic spot, much to Luke's command. Michael would do anything for the boy so he happily agreed. They spread out a large cozy blanket and arranged a delightful spread of sandwiches, snacks, and refreshing drinks, which again, was all down to Luke. He wanted to make today fun for everyone and had sneakily gone grocery shopping without Michael to buy all of this stuff. Michael had scolded him and told him not to spend his money on his friends but Luke was having none of it. He'd always been a people pleaser and he wanted to make everyone happy.

Laughter soon filled the air as their friends joined them, excited for a day of fun and relaxation amid the constant stress of assignments and work. Sierra was also here because apparently she doesn't leave Ashton's side at all. Luke offered her a quick hug and compliment. She grinned at him and fluffed his hair a little in a playful manner.

Ashton's eyes lit up at the endless snacks. "Thanks, mommy!" He said, aiming his words at Luke who flushed a deep shade of red.

"Shut up." He muttered, leaning closer to Michael. It felt good to know that everyone in this little group knew about his relationship. He didn't have to hide anymore.

Sierra was sat on Ashton's crossed legged lap, his arms wrapped around her and his chin on her shoulder. He pressed occasional kisses to the girls caramel skinned neck and she batted her eyelashes at him every so often. They looked happy. Jack and Alex were also sat close to each other. Luke watched them both silently as they joked around with each other, their fingers intertwined. Luke pursed his lips and looked down at his own hands. They were empty but they should have been in Michael's. He glanced over at his boyfriend who was engaged in a full blown conversation with Nia. He sighed to himself and picked at the snacks in front of him.