the sky, which had been a cheerful cerulean just an hour ago, had decided to unleash its watery fury right as you and eugene were strolling hand-in-hand, heading towards that cozy little cafe you both loved. one minute you were laughing about a silly joke he'd told, the next you were sprinting for cover under the inadequate awning of a closed bakery. the downpour was relentless, turning the street into a shimmering, watery expanse.

"well," eugene had said, his hair plastered to his forehead, a sheepish grin on his face, "this wasn't exactly how i pictured our quality time."

you couldn't help but giggle, your own clothes clinging uncomfortably.

soaked to the bone, you'd hurried back to your apartment, the sound of the rain a steady drumbeat. the only logical solution was a warm shower, and with only one bathroom, you'd taken turns, the awkwardness punctuated by the rhythmic sound of the water.

now, eugene stood in your living room, a soft towel draped around his neck. his usually neatly styled hair, the kind he always meticulously clipped, was now loose and slightly damp, cascading around his face in soft waves. it was a completely different look, one that highlighted the warmth in his eyes. you found yourself momentarily speechless, a blush creeping up your neck.

"okay, i'm done," he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips, perhaps noticing your surprise. "sorry to keep you waiting. should we watch movies instead?" his voice was a little deeper, maybe from the warmth of the shower, and it sent a little shiver down your spine. the rain outside continued its steady rhythm, but inside, a different kind of warmth was beginning to bloom.