Short Stories of our beloved ISHMAN

Mujhe haqq hai (3)

Human heart is greedy. It always yearns for more. Shubman's no exception. His heart is like a bottomless pit, always craving for more. A few months back he was delighted to have Ishan as his friend but when they tied the knot this expectation soared for something beyond the friendship. Even though his husband halted those expectations, he found joy in their constant companionship. They shared a room, a bed, meals and affection without a care in the world. One magical night, Ishan cuddled him to sleep and it has become a habit now. Now, Shubman's heart desires more than just cuddles. It yearns to playfully squeeze Ishan's chubby cheeks, peck his inviting lips and plant a gentle kiss on that adorable mole on his neck. Shubman is in a whirlwind of emotions, yearning to explore new depths with Ishan, who peacefully slumbers in his arms, unaware of the storm brewing within Shubman.

Time has flown, and Ishan and Shubman have grown even closer. Ishan's actions towards Shubman has shifted, subtly hinting that he is open to exploring a deeper connection with Shubman. Their interaction have transformed, moving from friendship to budding romance, yet both struggle to voice their emotions. Shubman believes his feelings are unrequited, while Ishan being aware about depth of Shubman's feelings towards him hesitates to address it. At the same time, Ishan grapples with newfound emotions for Shubman but lacks the courage to broach the subject. To begin their journey as one, they understand the importance of honest communication, but the path to express their true feelings remains uncertain, only time will reveal how their story unfolds.

The spring season is painting the town with its vibrant hues, signalling the arrival of the joyous festival of holi. The markets and streets are bustling with festive fervors. At the Gill household, anticipation is high as everyone eagerly awaits the celebration, especially since it marks the first holi for newlyweds. Numerous relatives and friends have been invited to join the Gill family for the festivities. The air is filled with delightful aroma of freshly prepared gujiyas, matthis, malpuas and more. While  the children of the house are engrossed in filling balloons with colourful hues, the young members of the family are meticulously organising everything to ensure a flawlessly enjoyable celebration.

As the morning sun filters through the curtains and the sounds of holi celebrations echo in the streets, Shubman awakens startled. Sensing the disturbance, Ishan snuggles closer to him. Shubman gazes at Ishan, realising he still asleep, his hands reaches out to gently stroke Ishan's cheek, murmuring, " i hope ki pehla rang mai hi lgau tumko" . He plants a soft kiss on Ishan's cheek and whispers, " happy holi" .

As Shubman stepped away from Ishan's embrace and headed to freshen up, Ishan who was pretending to be asleep, opened his eyes and tenderly touched his cheek where Shubman's kiss lingered. A rush of joy swept over him as he lay on the bed. Glancing towards the closed bathroom door, Ishan softly uttered, " agar tumne na bhi kaha hota toh bhi mai pehla rang tumse hi lgwata". He quickly wrapped himself in blanket as Shubman emerged from the washroom. He then cautiously faked waking up, trying to appear as if he had just arisen.

Arey, uth gye tum, dekho na mera white wala kurta nhi mil rha, tumhe pata hai kya? Shubman asked while doing his hair.

Mujhe nhi pata pr ek baar check krta hu, Ishan responded as he headed towards the wardrobe to look for Shubman's kurta. " ye lo, mere kapdo k sath mix ho gya tha", said Ishan as he handed kurta to Shubman.

Thank you, tum bhi jaldi ready ho jao. Sb wait krr rhe honge, Shubman said as he began getting dressed.

As the day went on, everyone came together in the garden to celebrate holi. The garden was filled with laughter and joy as they prepared to play Holi together. Tables were adorned with gujiya, gulal, matthis, thandai and everything was set up perfectly. The DJ was spinning tunes, filling the air with lively music. Ishan was engrossed in conversation with his friends, while Shubman stood by patiently, waiting to smear colour on him. Shubman lingered in a corner when Shahneel came up to him, her hand brimming with gulal. Just as she was about to apply colour on him, he halted her and said, " pehle Ishan ko lga lene do fir aap lga lena".