Thanks To You

Chapter Twenty Two(Rian)

As the aroma of Rian's homemade dinner filled the air, Rian couldn't help but feel a subtle warmth that went beyond the delicious meal. He was warmed by the presence of Jack in his apartment. The cozy atmosphere of Rian's apartment, paired with the dim lighting, gave the evening a romantic touch that Rian was hoping that Jack would notice. Jack did notice but didn't want to read too much into it, in fear of scaring off Rian, in case he was wrong.

Ever since they kissed. Rian has not stopped thinking about Jack, and Rian didn't know it, but Jack felt the same.

Over the perfect plates of food that Rian had put together, both men were stuck in their own heads a bit. Both of them, wanting to tell how they feel to the other, but both of them being scared to do so.
They have not talked about it since the kiss. And frankly, neither of them really remembered what happened. They just knew that something did.

Jack, taking a bite of the perfectly cooked steak, moaned in delight as he couldn't help but express his admiration. "Rian, this steak is incredible. You've really outdone yourself tonight."

Rian try not to get too excited over the moaning sound that Jack made. Instead, he decided to flash a charming smile, with his perfect white teeth. "Well, I had to impress you, didn't I? A good meal is the key to anyone's heart."

Jack chuckled, savoring another bite. "You might just be onto something there, Rian. If this is your way of winning hearts, consider mine won."

Rian raised an eyebrow playfully. "Is that so? I might have to cook for you more often then."

Jack leaned in with a mischievous grin. "I wouldn't complain about that. But you know, it's not just about the food. Your company is pretty delightful too."

Rian's eyes sparkled as he returned the compliment. "Well, Jack, you're not so bad yourself. It's nice having someone who appreciates a good meal and good conversation."

Jack grinned, his tone teasing. "Are you saying I'm the full package?"

Rian smirked, a playful glint in his eyes. "I might be implying that, yes. But, let's focus on enjoying this amazing dinner for now."

As the evening unfolded, the banter continued, making the apartment filled with laughter, shared glances, and the undeniable chemistry between them. Making it hard for either one of them to deny how they felt about each other but still both of them deciding not to say anything about it. To an outsider it probably seemed insane.

Alex knew that Rian had feelings for Jack, so he was sure Zack already knows by now that Rian likes Jack. And Rian was confident that there's no way Zack kept that secret from Jack. Rian would almost be grateful if Zack said something to Jack about it. Giving him the assist.

Jack shared the struggles Zack was facing with his impending eviction. "It's been tough helping Zack pack after my shifts at the hospital," Jack admitted, exhaustion lining his words. "I really appreciate you letting me decompress here, Rian."

Rian nodded understandingly, his eyes reflecting concern. "I get it, Jack. It's not easy for Zack, and it must be taking a toll on you too."

As the conversation flowed, Rian mentioned a conversation with Alex. "Alex might ask Zack to move in, Alex brought up to me that Zack was really really worried about it. And Alex is worried that he might sound crazy but he really just wants Zack to feel safe." Rian confessed, a mix of relief and worry in his voice. Jack's expression shifted, relieved that Rian had a potential solution but worried about the stress it might bring to Alex and Zack.

"I'm relieved, but I don't want them under too much pressure," Jack admitted, concern furrowing his brow.

Rian sighed, his gaze sincere. "I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I know Zack and I might get on each other's nerves too quickly. I have started to care too much about him to let that happen."

After dinner, the duo settled on the movie Zoolander, a film they both enjoyed.

As the movie played, Jack and Rian found themselves slowly scooting towards each other on the couch, eventually they ended up, snuggled up. With Jack having his head on Rian's shoulder. And his legs draped over Rian's lap.

Jack didn't really ask for permission, but he didn't care. He wanted to be as close to Rian as possible without sparking suspicion. Rian knew that Jack was an affectionate person, and really comfortable with this close friends, Rian would be able to observe that as him and Zach cuddled all the time. So he didn't really think that Rian would think too much of it.

Rian didn't protest, but he did try to keep his breathing level as he was a little, overwhelmed with the closeness. Wanting to just kiss Jack. And tell him how he feels. His heart almost bursting at the cuddles. Rian liked the closeness so much, that in fact, he just draped his arm over the back of the couch to wrap it around Jack's shoulders, while his other arm draped over Jack's legs, placing his palm securely on Jack's thigh.

"Is this ok? Are you comfortable?" Rian asked.

Jack nodded and hummed, content.

Jack fought off fatigue, determined to share the laughter with Rian. As the movie began, Jack found himself succumbing to sleep, eliciting giggles from Rian who found the sight adorable.

"I swear I wanna watch the movie. There's something about the dark room and being snuggled up next to you that makes it impossible to stay awake."

Rian laughed lightly. " I get it. You've had a long week. Doing double time as a great best friend and your job."

They didn't say anything else as Jack just snuggled back in. As the movie continued, Rian kept noticing Jack kept struggling to stay awake, Rian couldn't help but admire the peaceful expression on his face. Eventually, Jack's eyes closed, and he drifted off with his head comfortably resting on Rian's lap. Rian watched him with a gentle smile, appreciating the quiet moment.

Rian sat on the couch with Jack a little while longer, just letting him sleep. Rian was subtly stroking his hand through Jack's hair, admiring the man, whose his head was in his lap, When Jack was sound asleep, Rian carefully lifted him, cradling him in his arms, and carried him to his bedroom. Gently laying Jack in bed, Rian lingered for a moment, watching him sleep. The soft glow from the bedside lamp highlighted Jack's features, and Rian couldn't help but feel a sense of connection and care.

Closing the door quietly, Rian climbed into bed next to Jack, wrapping his arms around him, Rian didn't even get phased when they shared a bed together anymore, it was somehow becoming a habit for them... Rian found himself cherishing the unexpected intimacy of the evening. Rian found himself falling asleep with a content smile on his face.