THEM 'Ishman'

Midnight Confessions

The rain pattered gently against the window, creating a soothing symphony that harmonized perfectly with the warmth of the cozy living room. 

Ishan sat curled up on the couch, a blanket draped over his legs, cradling a mug of steaming hot chocolate. 

Despite the comforting atmosphere, his mind kept wandering to Shubman. 

They had planned to spend the night together, and the anticipation of their movie marathon had made him giddy with excitement. 

But now, with each tick of the clock, Ishan found himself feeling a familiar twinge of longing.

Just as he was about to give in to his disappointment, the door creaked open, and in stepped Shubman, looking like a scene straight out of a rom-com. 

He was drenched from head to toe, his clothes clinging to him like a second skin. Water dripped from his hair, forming a small puddle at his feet.

"I'm home!" Shubman announced, dramatically shaking his head like a wet dog, sending droplets flying in every direction. "And I brought the rain with me!"

Ishan jumped up, relief flooding through him. "Shub! You're soaked!" he exclaimed, rushing toward him, towel in hand.

"Yeah, I know! I was going for a swim, but I got distracted by the thought of you!" Shubman winked, trying to lighten the mood.

"Right, because nothing says romance like a downpour!" Ishan replied, rolling his eyes but unable to suppress his smile. "Let's get you dried off before you catch a cold."

As he began to dry Shubman's hair, their closeness sent butterflies fluttering in Ishan's stomach. "You should have texted me," he murmured, focusing on the task at hand, loving the way the towel felt against Shubman's soft hair.

"I didn't want to ruin your movie night." Shubman said, his voice low but tinged with gratitude. "But I missed you."

Ishan felt his heart skip a beat. "You're never a bother, you know that. I was just about to start worrying. I thought maybe you'd gotten swept away by a flash flood!"

"Ha! Well, I was tempted to call for a lifeguard. But then I remembered how much I enjoy being rescued by you." Shubman teased, leaning into Ishan's touch.

Once Shubman had changed into a pair of comfy sweatpants and a soft T-shirt, Ishan prepared the couch for their movie marathon, fluffing pillows and spreading blankets to create a cozy nest. 

When Shubman finally joined him, the air felt charged with an unspoken tension.

As they settled in, Ishan handed Shubman a steaming cup of hot chocolate, their fingers brushing together. "Here, drink this before you turn into an icicle." he said, grinning.

"Thanks, I was feeling a bit chilly." Shubman replied, taking a sip. "But I guess I'd warm up faster if I cuddled with you."

Ishan laughed, feeling a warmth spread through him. "You know, if you keep flirting with me like this, I might just start thinking you actually like me."

"Just might?" Shubman raised an eyebrow, feigning hurt. "I was hoping for a 'definitely' at the very least!"

"Okay, okay! Definitely!" Ishan chuckled, shaking his head. "How about you stop making me blush and focus on the movie?"

"Deal!" Shubman said, snuggling closer, their shoulders touching as the film began to play.

Halfway through the movie, Shubman turned to Ishan, his expression suddenly serious. "Hey, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, what's up?" Ishan replied, pausing the movie and turning to face him.

"I've been thinking... about us." Shubman began, his voice steady but low.