Yuvaan hadn't spoken to Aarav all day. Something felt off. Their last few texts had been short, and Aarav hadn't called like he usually did at night. Yuvaan tried to focus on his assignments but his thoughts kept drifting.
He couldn't stop thinking about the way Aarav had smiled at someone else during class. It was a small moment, but it stayed in Yuvaan's mind like a shadow.
Later that evening, Aarav showed up at Yuvaan's door. His hair was wet from the rain, and his shirt clung to his skin. He looked tired, but his eyes were full of emotion.
You didn't reply to my message, Aarav said softly.
Yuvaan stepped aside and let him in. I didn't know what to say.
They stood in silence for a moment. The rain outside tapped against the windows.
Are you angry with me, Aarav asked.
Yuvaan looked down. I just don't understand you sometimes. One moment you're close to me. The next, you're distant. It hurts.
Aarav walked closer. I didn't mean to hurt you. I've been scared. I didn't know how to handle all these feelings.
Yuvaan's voice was quiet. I need to know if I matter to you. Not just when it's easy.
Aarav reached out and touched Yuvaan's face. His hand was warm, even through the cold air.
You matter to me more than anyone, Aarav whispered. I think about you every morning. I miss you every night. I just didn't know how to say it.
Yuvaan's eyes softened. Then say it now.
Aarav leaned in and kissed him. It was slow at first, full of hesitation. Then it deepened, full of longing and emotion. Yuvaan's hands gripped Aarav's shirt, pulling him closer. Aarav's fingers slid into Yuvaan's hair, holding him gently.
They kissed like they had been waiting for this moment forever.
When they finally pulled apart, Aarav rested his forehead against Yuvaan's.
I'm sorry, Aarav said. I don't want to lose you.
Yuvaan nodded. Then stop hiding me. Stop hiding us.
Aarav smiled, a little sad, a little hopeful. I will. I promise.
He reached into his bag and pulled out a folded piece of
paper.
I wrote something for you, Aarav said. I didn't know how to say it out loud.
Yuvaan opened the paper. It was a poem.
The title read: Define Me
The words were soft, full of love and confusion and hope. Yuvaan read every line slowly, feeling each one in his chest.
He looked up, eyes shining.
You don't need to be perfect, Yuvaan said. You just need to be real with me.
Aarav nodded and pulled Yuvaan into another hug. This time, they didn't let go.
Outside, the rain kept falling. But inside, something had finally begun to heal.
To be continue soon.