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The days following that night felt like a blissful blur to Kyra. Between classes, editing sessions, and the initial chaos of settling into her new flat, she found herself thinking about Shubman constantly.
Every time her phone buzzed, she'd feel a rush of excitement, hoping it was him—and more often than not, it was.
Their conversations had taken on a comfortable rhythm. They'd text about everything from minor annoyances of the day to hilarious memes, and sometimes even deep reflections on life, dreams, and how the world around them seemed to change with each passing day.
It wasn't always romantic, and yet that, somehow, made it feel more significant.
One evening, as she was unpacking the last of her boxes with Coco running circles around her, Kyra's phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen, and her lips curved into a smile as Shubman's name appeared. She opened his message.
Shubman: So, you're all settled in, Ms. Future-Filmmaker? Or should I prepare to rescue you from boxes for the next month?
Kyra chuckled, typing back.
Kyra: Oh, I'd say about 80% there! Coco and I had a full unpacking session today. Though, between us, she's not the most helpful assistant.
A photo popped up on her screen of Shubman sitting on his couch, feet propped up, a cricket bat casually lying on the coffee table next to him.
Shubman: Well, you have my full moral support! Anytime you need a hand (or two), you know who to call.
Before she could respond, he sent another message.
Shubman: By the way... any chance you'd want to take Coco for a walk tonight? With some company?
Kyra hesitated, her heart doing that familiar little flip. She glanced at Coco, who was busy nosing around a recently emptied box.
Kyra: I think Coco would love that. And, uh... so would I.
A little while later, Kyra and Coco met Shubman just outside her building. It was a cool evening, and the city had taken on that golden glow that comes as the sun begins to set. Shubman greeted her with a warm smile, bending down to give Coco a few affectionate pats. Coco, overjoyed, wagged her tail furiously, pawing at him like he was her new best friend.
"You know," Shubman said as they began walking down the quiet sidewalk, "I think Coco likes me more than you do."
Kyra laughed, giving him a playful nudge. "Don't get too ahead of yourself. She's easily won over."
They fell into an easy conversation, weaving through the neighbourhood, talking about everything and nothing at all. It was moments like these that Kyra treasured—the simplicity of being with someone who made her feel at ease. There were no pretences, no performances—just two people, sharing a small piece of their lives.
