Snippets and Stories: (WtI) Hot Cocoa

The wind roared its might, a howling gale that tore through the trees with an icy vengeance.

Yet in the dark night was a soft orange glow unhindered by the frost that crept in frigid crystals in the corners and ledge.

Tucked away on a large chaise couch within the cozy upstairs of the Tea Shop were a couple of friends, snuggled close against the chill of the night.

Neiro lay up against his tall companion's side, and drew the thick microfiber blanket up around them. Nestled against his flatmate he sighed and cozied up underneath a layer of warmth. But still, it seemed lacking in something.

The albino glanced around. There was his mug of hot cocoa, the soft lamplight, platter of snacks, the remote within reach, and... Of course, how could he forget?

Neiro slipped his arms around the brunette's midsection and pushed his face into the other's arm to hide the shy smile that crept onto his face. To his pleasant surprise, Silas glanced down briefly but said nothing, allowing him to cling and rest his head against him.

The two stayed like that, cozied up on a harsh winter night in a throw in front of the large screen, though nothing was playing.

There were other things to captivate them.

As if on queue, an enticing waft of cocoa drifted up to the albino as they sat there and relished in the warmth of one another.

Neiro hummed at the thought of the sweet creamy drink and untangled himself from Silas. He reached for the mug, only to be caught in a pair on long arms.

"Hey!" Neiro whined staring balefully at the mug sitting invitingly on the crochet coaster a mere fingertip away.

But Silas dragged the other to his chest and held him there, chuckling at the indignant huff as Neiro bristled before relenting and melting into the embrace.

It had been a few months since the two began living together. Amusingly enough Neiro was spending more time in the Tea Shop than he did anywhere else, and one day simply invited himself in.

It had been a rainy day, almost as dark and stormy as the day they met, when there was a knock. Silas knew who it was even before he got to the door. Only Neiro would have the audacity to come knocking before opening hours. And sure enough the albino was there on his doorstep, drenched to the bone and with duffle bag in hand. The short man proclaimed that he was moving in and made himself at home to the brunette's dismay.

Still, there were no doubts in his mind that the new accommodations and lodging was for the better. Neiro's presence was a blessing as his legs grew stiff and his back weaker. The other took to the Tea Shop well, tended to and fussing over him with an almost maternal care. A hilarious sight as the short man insistently ushered him into a chair, fretting over him. Neiro watched him like a hawk, chastising him should he try to do anything else and ensuring that the brunette remained seated.

Though truth be told it was a relief, and the brunette was deeply grateful, more so than he would ever let on. Besides Neiro seemed to just know anyway.

At last he loosened his grip, letting the albino up to drink deep of the sweet concoction, which he did so with glee.

His companion let out a contented sigh before snuggling back into his side.

It was warm, and he was starting to feel drowsy.

A nudge in his side brought his attention to the other. Neiro pushed his face against him, nuzzling him, "Silas."

"What is it?" He peered down at the other, but Neiro just giggled, "Silas!"

"What?"

But Neiro just repeated his name in a cheerful mumble, hugging the other closer.

With a sigh he leaned back into the chaise longue.

"I'm glad I met you."

He glanced down at the odd eyes, glowing with a merriment so simple but which was beyond him.

The brunette said nothing but Neiro felt the arm around his shoulder squeeze just a might tighter, and saw the light dust of pink that came not from the warmth of the heated room nor their cozy blanket, and grinned a knowing grin.

Silas shifted and cleared his throat, eyes closing and groaning to himself in embarrassment as Neiro tried, and failed, to stifle his laughter.

"I love you too Si!"

And the warmth in his cheeks which he attributed to the glowing hearth, grew warmer still.