watermelon mojito

part 4: boyfriend

A week had passed since that tense evening, and to Rich's relief, things between him and Troy had settled into a comfortable rhythm. They had agreed to take things slow, and while the uncertainty of that night still lingered in the back of Rich's mind, their connection had only grown stronger. The awkwardness that had threatened to pull them apart seemed to have dissipated, replaced by a deepening bond that made Rich's heart race every time he saw Troy.

As the days went by, Rich found himself thinking more and more about Troy-about how much he wanted to be with him, not just as a friend, but as something more. He knew that taking things slow was important, but the more time they spent together, the more certain Rich became that he didn't want to wait any longer. He wanted to make it official, to take that leap and ask Troy to be his boyfriend.

So, Rich decided to plan something special-something that would show Troy just how much he meant to him. He spent the week meticulously putting together the perfect gesture, one that was thoughtful, meaningful, and uniquely theirs.

It was Friday evening again, and Rich had arranged to meet Troy after work. But instead of going to their usual spot or hanging out at Rich's place, Rich had something different in mind. He had told Troy to meet him at the smoothie shop after it closed, promising that he had a surprise in store.

Troy arrived just as the last rays of the setting sun cast a golden glow over the shop. He looked curious but relaxed, a smile playing on his lips as he approached Rich, who was waiting for him by the entrance.

"So, what's this all about?" Troy asked, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Rich grinned, his nerves bubbling under the surface but not enough to deter him. "You'll see," he said, taking Troy's hand and leading him inside.

The shop was quiet, the usual hustle and bustle of the day replaced by a peaceful stillness. But what caught Troy's attention immediately was the setup in the corner where they usually worked. Rich had arranged a small table, covered with a simple but elegant tablecloth, and on it sat two glasses filled with a familiar pink drink.

"The watermelon mojito," Troy said, a slow smile spreading across his face as he recognized the drink that had sparked the beginning of something special between them.

"Yeah," Rich replied, feeling his heart pound in his chest. "It seemed fitting."

They sat down at the table, the quiet of the shop creating an intimate atmosphere that felt both familiar and new. Rich poured them each a glass, the bright pink liquid sparkling under the soft lights he had strung up around the shop.

"I know we agreed to take things slow," Rich began, his voice steady but laced with emotion. "But this past week... it's made me realize just how much you mean to me, Troy. I don't want to keep dancing around this. I want us to be more than just friends who are figuring things out. I want us to be together. Officially."

Troy looked at him, his expression softening, the uncertainty that had clouded his eyes a week ago now replaced with something that looked a lot like happiness. "Rich," he said, his voice barely above a whisper, "I've been thinking the same thing. This week... it's been amazing, and I don't want to lose what we have. I want to be with you too."

Rich felt a surge of relief and joy at Troy's words, his heart swelling with emotion. He reached across the table, taking Troy's hand in his, his thumb gently brushing against Troy's knuckles.

"So, what do you say?" Rich asked, his voice filled with hope. "Will you be my boyfriend?"

Troy didn't hesitate. "Yes," he replied, his smile lighting up the room. "I'd love to be your boyfriend."

Rich's grin widened, and he stood up, pulling Troy into a tight embrace. They stood there, holding each other in the middle of the empty smoothie shop, the lingering scent of fresh fruit and the warmth of their connection wrapping around them like a cocoon.

"I'm so glad you said yes," Rich murmured into Troy's ear, his voice thick with emotion.

Troy pulled back slightly, just enough to look into Rich's eyes. "I couldn't have said anything else," he replied softly. "You've become so important to me, Rich. I'm ready for this-ready for us."

They kissed then, a soft, lingering kiss that spoke of all the things they had felt but hadn't yet said. It was a kiss that promised a future together, one filled with laughter, love, and the occasional watermelon mojito.

When they finally pulled apart, Troy rested his forehead against Rich's, a contented sigh escaping his lips. "So... how about we toast to us?" he suggested, nodding toward the glasses on the table.

Rich smiled, feeling a sense of rightness settle over him. "To us," he agreed.

They clinked their glasses together, the sound ringing softly in the quiet shop, and took a sip of the sweet, refreshing drink that had brought them together. As they sat down again, hands still intertwined, Rich felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be-with Troy, his boyfriend, by his side.