The Art of Attraction

Chapter 13: Building a Life Together

Ayan's life had taken a turn he never expected, but he couldn't deny how much he was enjoying his new life. Being with Yok had brought a sense of excitement and joy but also stability that he hadn't felt in a long time. It was as though their relationship had slipped into place naturally, filling the void left after Akk suddenly abandoned him.

The days they spent together became a sanctuary from the outside world. Ayan marveled at how easily they fit into each other's lives, despite the differences in their backgrounds and routines. Yok was still deeply involved with the ROL gang, his loyalty to his friends unwavering, while Ayan continued to navigate the complexities of his academic career and rebuild the friendship that got a little strained with Akk's exit from his life. After all, Khan and Wat are Akk's best friends.

They also had differences but they didn't drive them apart; if anything, they drew closer as they slowly learned how to deal with the hurdles. They found common ground in the little things—shared meals, quiet evenings, and simple acts of affection that spoke volumes. It was in these moments that Ayan realized how much Yok had come to mean to him and even if they had to be a little more private than he was used to, he was happy with how they are.

Their relationship wasn't just about the passionate kisses and the intense emotions they shared although those encounters are nothing if not amazing. It was about the quiet moments, too. The way Yok would gently tease him when he was deep in thought, or how Ayan would instinctively reach out to smooth a lock of hair from Yok's forehead. These gestures had become second nature, a testament to how deeply they had grown to care for each other.

One Saturday morning, they decided to spend the day together without any particular agenda. It was a rare break from their busy schedules, and Ayan suggested they go to the supermarket to pick up some fresh ingredients for dinner. Yok agreed with a grin, slipping his hand into Ayan's as they headed out the door.

The supermarket was bustling with people, but Ayan barely noticed. His attention was on Yok, who was scanning the produce section with a critical eye. They debated over the ripeness of tomatoes and the quality of the greens, their playful banter drawing a few amused glances from other shoppers. Ayan didn't mind. He was just happy to be there with Yok, sharing a slice of normal life.

At one point, Yok reached out and took Ayan's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. Ayan looked up in surprise, but the warmth in Yok's eyes made him smile. It was a small gesture, but it meant the world to him. They continued shopping, completely unaware that someone nearby was watching them more closely than they realized.

As they made their way to the checkout, Ayan noticed a few people glancing their way, but he dismissed it as nothing out of the ordinary, after all wherever he went Yok has the look that garnered immediate attention. In his mind, he thought they were just two people shopping together. What harm could there be in that?

Later that evening, they returned to Ayan's place, their bags filled with ingredients for the dinner they planned to cook together. The kitchen quickly filled with the sounds of chopping, sizzling, and laughter. Yok was in charge of the main course, while Ayan focused on preparing a salad. They worked in tandem, moving around the small space with a familiarity that spoke of how well they had come to know each other.

As they sat down to eat, Ayan couldn't help but feel a deep sense of contentment. The food was delicious, but it was the company that made the meal special. Yok was telling him a story about one of his friends from the ROL gang, his eyes sparkling with amusement. Ayan listened, captivated by the way Yok's face lit up when he talked about the people he cared about.

The evening passed in a blur of conversation and laughter, and by the time they finished cleaning up, it was late. Ayan suggested they watch a movie, and Yok readily agreed. They settled on the couch, Ayan leaning against Yok's shoulder as the movie played in the background. But neither of them paid much attention to the screen. Their focus was on each other, the comfort of being together more important than anything else.

When it was time for Yok to leave, Ayan walked him to the door, feeling a pang of reluctance. He didn't want the night to end. As if sensing his thoughts, Yok leaned in and kissed him softly, a promise that this wasn't goodbye, just a pause until they could be together again.

"I'll see you tomorrow, Mom would be worried if I continue not to go home, I've been here with you the past few days" Yok murmured, his lips brushing against Ayan's.

Ayan nodded, his heart swelling with affection. "I understand. Be safe, okay?"

"Always," Yok replied with a smile before slipping out the door.

Ayan watched him go, feeling a sense of warmth and belonging.