Chapter 36: Dreams do come true [M]

The stairwell felt like a dreamy landscape, one made of confessions, flushed faces, trembling hands, and the lingering sweetness of a tender kiss. It was hard for Athan to break that moment, but approaching footsteps forced him to. 

Now, back in Shawn's unit, reality returned in quiet shuffles. The door clicked shut behind them, the soft thud of the lock seeming louder in the hush that followed. Shawn gently set the bouquet of roses on the counter, but before he could turn around, he felt himself pulled back by the wrist.

"Young master—"

"Athan." 

Shawn rubbed his nape. "Sorry. It was a habit."

"Try to call my name more from now on, so you can get used to it. Say it even if you're just going to ask me which day it is, or what time it is, or if you just need to speak so your breath won't stink, speak my name instead."