28

304 22 3
                                    

Neel was engrossed in a captivating book when the door to his apartment burst open,

Neel was engrossed in a captivating book when the door to his apartment burst open,

Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.

and in walked Malang. By now, it felt like Malang's presence had become a regular part of Neel's living space, with some of Malang's belongings scattered around, blending seamlessly with Neel's.

Neel looked up from his book, meeting Malang's bored expression.

Neel: What's up?

Malang's face wore an unmistakable expression of boredom. Without missing a beat, Neel questioned Malang about his current state.

Malang: (sighs) Just bored, that's all.

Neel couldn't help but chuckle at Malang's straightforwardness and sometimes childlike behavior.

Neel: (smirking) You know, not everyone has the luxury of being as entertained as you are.

Malang responded by questioning Neel about his activities.

Malang: What are you doing, old man?

Neel raised an eyebrow, feigning offense.

Neel: I read, and I'm not old, you brat.

A mischievous smile played on Malang's lips.

Malang: (teasing) Fine, fine. What are you reading?

Neel explained that he had found a book with an intriguing storyline.

Neel: The story is pretty good. Want me to explain it to you?

Malang, not one to turn down an opportunity to tease Neel, made a face, poking fun at Neel's reading habits.

Malang: (smirking) Neel, you're so old-fashioned. Who reads books these days?

Undeterred, Neel invited Malang to join him, making space on the couch.

Neel: (playful) Come here. I'll tell you about it.

Malang, finding no room beside Neel, cheekily pushed Neel's arm, making himself comfortable on Neel's lap.

Malang: (grinning) Alright, go on then.

Neel began narrating the plot, and as the story unfolded, both of them got lost in the pages of the book. It wasn't just the plot that captivated Malang; it was the way Neel's eyes lit up with excitement, the soothing cadence of his voice that painted a vivid picture of the story.

Malang: (interrupting) Hold on, what happens next?

Undeterred, Neel continued, their proximity creating a unique space where the boundaries between reader and listener blurred. Together, they found solace in the shared moments, where a simple story became a backdrop to strengthen their growing bond.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
As the final pages of the book turned, Malang couldn't help but be swept away by the story's conclusion. His eyes were bright with admiration as he looked up at Neel, who had effortlessly transported them both into the world of the novel.

Rhythms of the HeartWhere stories live. Discover now