Till had never thought a night out with Ivan could feel like this. Usually, he preferred the shadows, keeping to himself, observing more than participating. But Ivan… Ivan had a way of pulling people in without even trying. His laughter echoed too loudly, his words tumbled out in chaotic bursts, and yet, Till found himself smiling, leaning a little closer than he meant to.

They wandered through the streets, past neon signs that flickered lazily, past cafés spilling soft music into the night. Ivan pointed out everything: a crooked lamppost, a stray cat, the pattern of puddles on the sidewalk. Till said little, mostly listening, but each tiny observation made him feel lighter, as if the world was bigger and warmer when Ivan was around.

By the time they reached the corner where they had to part, Till’s chest was tight with unspoken words and half-formed hopes. Ivan turned to him, scratching the back of his neck, his grin wide and effortless. “I had loads of fun tonight,” he said.

Till’s heart jumped, certain that Ivan would lean in. He imagined the brush of lips, a soft moment sealing the night—but Ivan only pulled him into a brief hug and pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead.

Till froze, cheeks burning, and blinked up at Ivan. He didn’t move away. Instead, he stood there, glowering, lips pressed into a thin line, eyes sharp and incredulous. Ivan, blissfully oblivious, just smiled, clearly thinking everything had gone perfectly. once he noticed Tills glare it made ivan slightly nervous