its complicated-- {MALUM}

epilogue

As they sat across from each other in the dimly lit, charming coffee shop with exposed brick walls and vintage decor, Michael couldn't help but be captivated by Calum's tousled, chestnut hair and the way he nervously drummed his long, slender fingers on the worn, wooden tabletop. Calum's deep, hazel eyes flitted around the room, avoiding Michael's intense gaze, while Michael fidgeted with the cuff of his crisp, white shirt, searching for the perfect words to break the uncomfortable silence.

"Um, so, do you come here often?" Michael finally managed to ask, wincing at the awkwardness of his own words.

Calum chuckled nervously, the corners of his plush, rosy lips turning upward. "Not really. I'm not much of a coffee person, but I thought this place seemed quaint for us to meet."

Michael nodded, feeling a sense of relief that Calum shared his unease. They both took tentative sips of their expertly crafted lattes, the rich, robust flavors lingering on their palates.

"I hope this isn't too strange," Calum said, his cheeks tinted with a faint blush. "I haven't really done this before."

Michael offered a warm, reassuring smile, feeling a sense of kinship with Calum. "It's alright. First dates have never been my forte either. But I'm glad we're both here."

Their conversation gradually flowed more naturally, and the initial awkwardness gave way to genuine laughter and easy banter. The scent of freshly ground coffee beans and the faint hint of burnt toast, initially overwhelming, became a comforting, familiar backdrop to their blossoming connection. 

As they spent more time together, Michael started to feel more comfortable around Calum. One evening, after a long day, Michael realized he had accidentally locked himself out of his apartment and couldn't get back in. Feeling flustered, he called Calum for help. "Hey, Calum, I hate to ask, but I managed to lock myself out of my apartment. I won't be able to get back in until I get a new key. Is it okay if I crash at your place for a bit?" Michael asked, feeling a bit embarrassed.

 "Of course, no problem at all! I've got a spare room you can use. Don't worry about it," Calum replied warmly.

 During that week, as they shared a space, their interactions became more relaxed and natural. They cooked meals together, watched movies, and had deep conversations late into the night. The initial awkwardness melted away, replaced by a genuine connection. 

 "You know, I'm starting to think you locked yourself out on purpose just to spend more time with me," Calum teased one evening, a playful glint in his eyes. Michael laughed, feeling lighthearted and content. "You caught me! Who wouldn't want to spend more time with you?" 

As they prepared dinner one evening, Michael accidentally spilled some flour on the counter, earning a playful smirk from Calum. "Wow, I didn't realize we were having a flour fight for dinner," Calum teased, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. 

 Michael chuckled and grabbed a handful of flour, pretending to throw it at Calum. "Oh, you want to start a flour war, do you? You asked for it!" he retorted, as they both dissolved into laughter. 

 Their easy rapport made even the most mundane moments feel special. Whether it was playfully arguing over movie choices or exchanging lighthearted teasing about each other's quirks, their time together was filled with warmth and laughter. 

 As the days passed, Michael found himself feeling more at home in Calum's space, and their initial discomfort had transformed into a deep sense of ease and familiarity. Their shared experiences had brought them even closer, and it was clear to both of them that something beautiful was blossoming between them.

As they lounged on the couch one evening, Calum playfully nudged Michael with his elbow. "So, do you always take this long to pick a movie, or are you just trying to test my patience?" he teased, a playful glint in his eye. 

 Michael feigned offense, putting a hand over his heart dramatically. "Hey, I take my movie choices very seriously! I just want to make sure we pick the perfect one," he replied with a grin. 

 Their light-hearted banter continued as they debated movie options, each trying to sway the other toward their preferred genre. Eventually, they settled on a classic comedy, and as they watched, their laughter filled the room, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

 Later that night, as they prepared for bed, Calum jokingly remarked, "You know, you've been staying here for a week now. I think it's time to start paying rent, don't you think?"Michael feigned surprise. "Rent? I thought my payment was providing you with my charming company!" he retorted, a playful sparkle in his eyes. 

 Their playful teasing and easy camaraderie had become an integral part of their time together, solidifying the bond that was growing between them.