THEM 'Ishman'

Love Out Loud

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the sprawling campus of Maplewood University. 

The sounds of laughter and chatter filled the air as students bustled between classes, the energy palpable as another semester took full swing. 

In the heart of it all, Ishan and Shubman navigated the hallways, their fingers brushing against each other, a silent promise of their secret relationship.

They were an odd pairing in the eyes of their friends. Ishan was the epitome of sweetness—innocent, with wide doe eyes that sparkled with curiosity and a cute pout that made everyone want to protect him. 

Shubman, on the other hand, was the enigmatic cold cricketer, a person of few words but with a heart that beat fervently for Ishan. 

They had spent months navigating the complexities of their relationship, from stolen glances in crowded rooms to late-night confessions beneath the stars. 

And now, they were determined to keep their romance under wraps for a while longer, much to the dismay of their ever-curious friends.

As they made their way to the cafeteria, they were met by their boisterous friend group—Abhishek, Rishab, and Hardik—who were deep in discussion about their latest plan to set up their two favorite people.

"I'm telling you, they're perfect for each other. Ishan needs someone like Shubman to bring out his adventurous side. We should totally get them together!"  Abhishek declared, his hands animatedly gesturing as he spoke.

"Are you kidding? Ishan is too innocent for someone like Shubman. Shubman will break his heart before he even knows it!" Rishab replied, a teasing smirk dancing on his lips.

"I say we do a little matchmaking! A surprise date! What do you think, guys?" Hardik chimed in, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

Ishan and Shubman exchanged knowing glances, Ishan's cheeks flushing at the thought of their friends trying to play matchmaker. 

He felt a flutter in his stomach—excitement mixed with the adrenaline of keeping their secret safe. 

Shubman, meanwhile, felt a wave of possessiveness wash over him. He had no intention of letting anyone else near Ishan, especially if they were clueless about their relationship.

"Let's just keep it chill." Shubman interjected coolly, trying to sound indifferent while his heart raced. "Ishan's got a lot on his plate with classes and cricket practice. A surprise date sounds... unnecessary."

"Oh, come on! It's just a little fun! We'll make it a group thing. What's the worst that could happen?" Abhishek rolled his eyes.

As they reached the cafeteria, Ishan felt a soft nudge against his side. 

Shubman had discreetly wrapped his fingers around Ishan's wrist, grounding him amidst the chaos. "Just act normal, okay?" he whispered, his voice low but firm.

Inside, the cafeteria was bustling with students, the aroma of various cuisines wafting through the air. 

They found a table in the corner, and as the group settled in, the playful banter resumed. Abhishek leaned forward, a conspiratorial glint in his eye. "So, what if we set up a game? Something fun to get Ishan and Shubman to... you know, connect?"

Ishan bit his lip, trying to suppress a giggle. "What kind of game?"

"A 'Truth or Dare' challenge! It'll be perfect! We'll dare you guys to do the most ridiculous things, and by the end, maybe you'll realize how perfect you are for each other!" Abhishek declared, slapping the table excitedly.