MAHATAB

SOME LAUGHTER AND GOOD FOOD

YUVIKA

I've never truly enjoyed any man's company the way I do with Dhananjay. There's something different about him; he makes me feel safe and understood, as if I can let my guard down without fear of judgment. Each laugh we share, each story we exchange, feels like a breath of fresh air, a break from the weight I've been carrying for so long.

Just then, Coco jumps up onto the table, his tail wagging enthusiastically, and I can't help but laugh. "Coco! No, not on the table!" I gently shoo him away, but he seems unfazed, looking up at Dhananjay with his big, pleading eyes.

Dhananjay chuckles, reaching down to pet Coco. "Looks like he's trying to get in on the action. You know, he never likes anyone the first time he meets them. You must be special," he teases.

I roll my eyes, a smile still tugging at my lips. "Oh, please. He just likes food. If you drop a piece of pasta, I can guarantee he'll be your best friend in seconds."

"Is that a challenge?" Dhananjay grins, glancing at me with that familiar spark in his eyes.

Coco sits expectantly, as if he knows the conversation is about him, and I feel warmth spread through my chest. In this moment, surrounded by laughter and the comforting presence of Dhananjay, I realize how much I've craved this connection. It's like I'm rediscovering parts of myself that had been lost beneath layers of hurt and disappointment.

As we enjoy our lunch, the lightness in the air between us contrasts sharply with the heaviness that had weighed me down earlier. Maybe it's the pasta or the warmth of Dhananjay's presence, but I feel a flicker of hope. Perhaps this is the beginning of something meaningful, a friendship that could blossom into more.

Coco nudges my hand, and I reach down to scratch behind his ears. "You're a good boy, Coco," I say softly, and Dhananjay watches, a hint of admiration in his gaze.

"Looks like he's claiming you as his own," he remarks, and I can't help but laugh again, the sound lifting the tension in the room.

I glance at Dhananjay, and for a moment, our eyes meet, and I see something in his expression-a depth that pulls me in. I realize that I want to know more about him, to peel back the layers and understand the man behind that reserved exterior.

"Thank you for being here, Dhananjay," I say, my voice soft but sincere. "I really appreciate it."

His smile widens, and for the first time, I can see that he genuinely enjoys this as much as I do. "I'm glad I came," he replies, his tone earnest. "I think we both needed this."

And in that moment, with Coco curled up beside us and laughter filling the air, I feel a sense of peace that I haven't experienced in a long time.

As we finish our lunch, the conversation flows effortlessly, the laughter and lighthearted banter creating a cocoon of comfort around us. I find myself losing track of time, reveling in this rare moment of connection.

As he rises from his chair, I can't help but feel a twinge of disappointment. I've enjoyed our time together far too much, and the thought of him leaving sends a small pang through my heart. "Are you sure you can't stay a little longer?" I ask, almost shyly.

He pauses, contemplating my words, and I catch a glimpse of hope flickering in his eyes. "I wish I could, but I should let you get back to your day," he replies gently, his voice tinged with regret.