Unrequited

18

The following day, Pavel and Pooh spent a lazy afternoon together, ensconced in the warmth of Pavel's living room. Sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a golden glow over the cozy space. They had decided to watch some movies, a perfect way to relax and enjoy each other's company.

Pavel's cat, a sleek and affectionate creature, was curled up in Pavel's lap, purring softly as Pavel gently stroked its fur. Pooh sat close beside him, leaning against Pavel's shoulder, feeling content and at peace.

"What movie should we watch next?" Pavel asked, flipping through the options on the screen.

"How about something light and funny?" Pooh suggested, glancing up at Pavel with a smile. "We've watched enough action movies."

Pavel chuckled. "Alright, a comedy it is," he agreed, selecting a lighthearted film.

As the movie started, Pooh snuggled closer, resting his head on Pavel's shoulder. Pavel wrapped an arm around Pooh, holding him gently. The cat shifted slightly but remained comfortably nestled in Pavel's lap.

Halfway through the movie, Pooh glanced up at Pavel, a mischievous glint in his eye. "You know, Captain, I think I like your cat now," he said, his voice teasing.

Pavel raised an eyebrow, a smile tugging at his lips. "Oh really? What changed your mind?"

"Well, I guess I was just jealous," Pooh admitted, reaching out to pet the cat. "But now I see how much you care for him. And I want to be part of that."

Pavel laughed softly. "You're part of it, Pooh. Don't worry," he reassured, giving Pooh's shoulder a gentle squeeze.

They continued watching the movie, sharing occasional comments and laughs. Pooh felt a warmth in his heart, a sense of belonging that he hadn't felt before. Being with Pavel, in this simple and intimate setting, made him feel cherished and valued.

As the credits rolled, Pavel stretched and yawned, causing the cat to stir and jump down from his lap. "That was a good choice," he said, turning to Pooh. "You have a knack for picking movies."

Pooh grinned. "Thanks, Captain. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

Pavel stood up, offering a hand to Pooh. "How about we take a break and make some popcorn for the next one?" he suggested.

Pooh took Pavel's hand and stood up, feeling a surge of happiness. "Sounds perfect," he replied.

They headed to the kitchen, working together to prepare the popcorn. As they waited for it to pop, Pooh leaned against the counter, watching Pavel with a fond smile.

"You know, Captain, these past few days have been the best of my life," Pooh said softly.

Pavel looked up, his expression tender. "I'm glad to hear that, Pooh. It's been nice having you here."

Pooh's heart swelled with emotion. "I wish this could last forever," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Pavel walked over and placed a hand on Pooh's shoulder. "We still have two more days," he said gently. "Let's make the most of them."

Pooh nodded, feeling a sense of contentment wash over him. Together, they returned to the living room with their bowl of popcorn, ready to continue their movie marathon. As they settled back on the couch, the cat jumped up and found a spot between them, completing their little family.

In that moment, everything felt perfect. Pooh leaned against Pavel, feeling safe and loved, knowing that these memories would stay with him forever.