Peraya Delight - Chapter 78: Chapter 78

Kongpob excitedly ran to his best friend's room. A wide and thrilled smile on his lips as he saw the other dancing to the blasting music from the speaker.
"Weir!"
"Gosh! You scared me!" Weir turned the speaker off, Kongpob's voice was louder than the music and it almost made him trip on his steps.
Kongpob gave an apologetic smile before he excitedly reached to hold his best friend's hands. "I have some happy news!"
Weir blinked, raising his eyebrows in question. "What?"
"He's coming back." Kongpob smiled wider if that was possible, he was practically on his toes in excitement.
"Who?"
Kongpob rolled his eyes, "Arthit, he's coming back!"
Weir's eyebrows furrowed as he stared at his best friend. Kongpob was being oddly hyper as he told the 'happy news' he claims it to be but Weir wasn't seeing it. Heck he doesn't even understand why Kongpob was being soo excited.
With confusion in his mind, Weir asked, "Who's Arthit?"
Kongpob could only gasp, his hold on Weir's hands dropped and he stared at the latter with wide eyes.
"What do you mean who's Arthit?! Did you forget him?" Kongpob couldn't believe what he was hearing.
"I don't remember any Arthit, why are you making such a big deal out of it?" Weir shrugged his shoulders, nonchalant on the matter.
Kongpob facepalmed, "I can't believe you forgot our childhood friend! We promised that we'll remember eachother."
"Well, I don't remember him. Problem solved." Weir flopped on his bed, laying on his side as he watched a frustrated Kongpob.
Kongpob took a deep breath, calming himself. He can't believe what he just heard but for now, he has to make Weir remember Arthit or else he's gonna be doomed.
Walking towards the bed and sitting on it he turned to face his best friend with a pout on his lips.
"Don't you remember him at all? He's Uncle David and Aunt Achara's son. We promised to never break our friendship."
Weir's eyes widened when it finally registered in his mind. "Uncle David and Aunty Achara! Arthit is their son? Damn! I forgot! Good that you reminded me."
A sigh of relief left Kongpob's lips. He smiled wide at Weir making the other male suspiciously eye him.
"What is it Kong? Are you hiding something from me?" Weir raised an eyebrow, he had known Kongpob his whole life and he can see if the latter's demeanour changes. He knows what lies behind each stare and smile of the other.
"Well, I need your help." Kongpob scratched the back of his neck, slightly embarrassed.
Weir eyed the latter suspiciously, "What?"
Kongpob gulped, "Remember how you promised Arthit that you'll send him emails every day?"
Weir remained silent for a minute. Searching deep into his memory lane to think of such a promise. Blinking he finally remembered the silly promise he had made to the childish boy.
"Oh yeah, I remember. Such a silly promise that I had made. I don't even remember why I said yes in the first place! Who's gonna do that anyway?" Weir scoffed. Laying on his back on the bed, hands under his head, chuckling.
"Well, I did." Kongpob rolled her eyes when Weir snapped his gaze at him and started to laugh. "I wrote it by your name."
Weir's eyes widened as he shot up, facing the latter. "What the- Kong!"
"Weir!" Kongpob gave his puppy eyes to the latter, taking his hands in his.
Weir could only gasp as the information replayed in his mind, "What have you done, Kong?! Why did you write emails in my name!?"
Kongpob pouted, "I know it's stupid of me, and I'm sorry but you have to help me now. He'll only be here for two weeks. Just two weeks, Weir."
Weir stared at Kongpob, indirectly asking him through his eyes to speak out what the latter has in his mind.
With a pout and pleading gaze Kongpob moved closer to his best friend, "Just pretend for two weeks that you wrote those letters, that's all. It's as simple as that!
"This is soo stupid, Kong!" Weir gasped, he couldn't understand why Kong was being soo silly.
"Weir, please! After all that I've done for you, I'm just asking you this in favour of that! The only reason you've passed every year is because I did your homework! And now when I ask you, you can't even do this much for me?" Kongpob whined.
Weir groaned at the latter who was now clinging to him. It's not his problem that Kongpob is smarter than him in his studies thus he had to beg for his help, and Kong had always been willing to do that. But now the latter was clearly blackmailing him.
"Please, Weir! Na~Na! It's only two weeks."
Weir let out a huge sigh, feeling his body being shaken by Kongpob. "Ok-Ok! Stop trying to get my sympathy. Just leave it to me now, Weir is gonna handle this."
"You're the best!" Kongpob launched himself on the other, hugging the other tightly. Though he felt a pull in his heart, with what he was doing it didn't matter now. He knows what matters and that's what he's doing right now.
"Fine-fine," Weir rolled his eyes as they pulled away, he next looked at Kongpob with curiosity in his eyes. "So, tell me. What does this Arthit look like?"
Kongpob's face bloomed with excitement. "He's very handsome. Almost six feet, dark hazel eyes and -"
"Enough-Enough!" Weir stopped the latter, a smirk forming on his lips. "Let him come. Let us see what this Arthit is all about."
"Don't scare him away," Kongpob warned, pointing at his dear friend.
Weir stood up, shrugging his shoulders. "Yeah, we'll think about that. For now please leave my room so I can practice my dance moves."
"Of course, Michael Jackson." Kongpob laughed when Weir glared at him.
"Kong!"
Giggling Kongpob left the room, closing the door behind him as he wished him good luck. Weir was a fantastic dancer, unlike him who loves the privacy of his room, books and music was his world. He and Weir are complete opposites, but in the end, they get along soo well and understand eachother like no other. Kongpob is thankful to have someone like him in his life who he can call his best friend.
On the way to his room he could hear chaos going on downstairs, he could only giggle listening to the hurried preparations his parents and Weir's father was doing downstairs because their dear best friend is coming home soon.
Sitting on his bed Kongpob's eyes fell on his computer, a small smile playing on his lips. That computer had been the only source through which he could communicate to that one person, who he had dreamed of, day and night. He didn't know how to express what he was feeling inside, or rather he didn't want to acknowledge it.
But the promise he had made to Arthit, to their friendship before the latter left is still fresh in his mind.
"I still don't understand why you have to go to London. You're the scion of one of the richest families in here."
Kongpob watched Chaow, Weir's father, question his best friend. Making the other chuckle.
"He's not going for the money, Chaow," Kerkkrai smirked at them.
"Have you seen all the beautiful babes out there in England?"
The statement made them laugh, Kongpob on the other hand didn't understand what they were trying to say but seeing his parents, Weir's father and Arthit's parents laugh and play around before Arthit, David and Achara leave is a good sight to be seen.
David chuckled his hands on Achara's waist who was laughing along with the other. "It is not about that or money. This is about computers. Someday, computer technology will be a huge industry. And that's where my ideas can best be put to use."
"Why else would I leave home? A bitter smile played on David's lips and Achara sensing how her husband is feeling caressed his arms. She herself was feeling down deep inside, after getting married to David the other two couples had been a part of her family too. David adored his two best friends and their families too. Even through the hardships he and Kerkkrai had to watch their friend Chaow go through after his wife's death, they stick along well. Lived as a family.
"Will you forget us once you're there?" Kerkkrai couldn't help but ask. All these years they had been together but now David is leaving with his family, they won't be seeing him in another decade or so.
David gasped, shaking his head he stepped towards Kerkkrai and Chaow, pulling the two for a hug. The sound of the trains in the background reminds him again that they're really leaving.
"How can you say that, Kerkkrai? How can I forget all of you?"
Achara stepped in to hug Rin who shed silent tears in her arms. "We could never forget this friendship. Ever."
Witnessing the scene in front of him, Kongpob felt a pull inside him. In the little boy's heart, he could feel the pain of separation as he turned to face the pale boy beside him, watching him eyeing Weir who was nonchalantly standing between them. He's gonna miss Arthit.
"Weir, come with me!" The whisper yell from Arthit caught Kongpob's attention. As he pulled Weir with him to a more secluded place in the train station, not too far away from their parents, Kongpob joined them too.
"If our parents' friendship isn't going to end why would our friendship end right? We should keep this friendship strong. Ok?" Arthit's chubby cheeks puffed up as he pouted, sadness in his eyes and Kongpob didn't like the sight.
"Our friendship will never end, Arthit. I promise you." Kongpob smiled wide as he patted Arthit's shoulder making the latter turn his attention from Weir to him as he smiled wide.
"Thank you, Kong. No matter what we'll keep this promise."
"Yes, sure." Weir shrugged his shoulders.
Excitedly turning towards Weir Arthit softly stared at him. "Weir, you will write to me, won't you?"
Kongpob nudged Weir's shoulder when the latter didn't reply making Weir eye his close friend before turning to face Arthit's beaming face. "Yeah-Yeah, I'll write."
"I'll email you regularly!" Arthit informed excitedly but his smile dropped at what Weir said next.
"But I don't have a computer, Arthit," Weir stated, obviously not interested in the interactions of the hyperactive boy in front of him. He just wants to go home and sleep. They had to wake up early so they could accompany Arthit and his family to the train station. They'll be heading to the capital city and then take the plane from the airport there to London.
"That's right," Arthit nervously rubbed his hands. "You don't own a computer, what will we do now? I don't want to lose you."
Kongpob smiled sensing the genuine worry of Arthit. The way his cheeks puffed, his pale skin turned red with the cold wind, how his lips dropped in worry. Kongpob is gonna miss it a lot.
"But, I have a computer at home, right? So, don't worry." Kongpob immediately voiced out, solving the conflict.
"Excellent!" Arthit's lips bloomed with a wide smile, showing off his dimples "I'll email you on Kong's computer, Weir."
Arthit then turned to face Kongpob, taking his hand in his he clung onto them."Kong, you always help me out! You're such a good friend. Thank you."
Before Kongpob could reply they heard Achara calling out for Arthit.
"Arthit! It's time to leave! The train is about to start!"
Though sadness took over Arthit's features he immediately masked his expression, but the slight change of emotion didn't leave Kongpob's eyes as he was constantly staring at the latter.
"Bye, Kong. By Weir." Arthit waved at the two and before he ran towards his mother he faced Weir and pulled him for a short hug before dashing away leaving Weir to gasp at the action and Kongpob to giggle at his best friend's reaction.
Kongpob watched as Achara helped Arthit to get inside the train, later getting in herself and David followed them. He didn't see Arthit after that, he only saw Achara and David waving goodbye to Kerkkrai, Rin and Chaow, shedding their share of tears as the train started to move.
With a bitter smile on his lips Kongpob whispered, "Bye Arthit, I'll miss you."
Dear Weir,
London is such a big city. Such tall buildings and lots of cars and buses. And The Big Ben is so much bigger than any other clock tower we have ever seen.
We live in Hampstead here and we're the only Indian family here. Everyone else is British. It's kind of lonely since others aren't the same as you but I'm adjusting pretty well here. I guess.
The best part about school here is, that you don't have to wear uniforms. Everything's straight out of an Archie comic, London is-"
"I'm soo bored." Weir groaned as he stopped reading Arthit's e-mail on Kongpob's computer. Laying on the bed he rolled his eyes when he saw Kongpob enthusiastically sitting on the chair he previously sat on and continued to read.
"London is such a big and beautiful city. But I miss home, Thailand and you."
Kongpob coughed giving a teasing glance at Weir who brushed it off.
"I'm waiting to hear from you. Do write.
Love, Arthit"
Kongpob smiled warmly, his eyes glancing over the letters displayed on the screen once again.
"Arthit has turned into a big bore." Weir couldn't help but complain. It was boring to read letters and reply to them. It was not his thing.
"Do I have to email him back now? God! No way!" Weir groaned into his hands.
Kongpob's eyebrows furrowed, "But Weir, you promised him you'd write."
Weir rolled his eyes, "Sure."
"Weir," Kongpob warned.
"Kong," Weir replied in the same tune, hands on hip making Kongpob sigh.
"You're soo mean while Arthit is soo sweet. You always make Arthit miserable. This is not fair,Weir." Kongpob tried to reason. He doesn't want Arthit to get hurt and their friendship to break. He knows how much Arthit adores Weir, he had seen it with his own eyes and he doesn't want to hurt Arthit because Weir wasn't writing him a letter even after the latter asked him to write him one.
"So now I have to email him?" Weir scoffed, standing up from the bed. "If you're soo keen, why don't you write to him?"
Kongpob gasped and Weir took the chance to leave the room.
"Bye, Kong." Weir sheepishly waved goodbye to the latter.
"Bye," Kongpob replied dazed, still thinking about what Weir had just said. Before he could overthink he turned towards his computer and started writing even before he knew he was.
Dear Arthit,
London sounds soo exciting. I thought about you at lunch today. I ate your favourite Pad Thai noodles, it was a bit spicy for me though but I drank your favourite PinkMilk with it. Do you have those in London? I know you can't survive without your PinkMilk.
Bye for now, Arthit. I have to do my homework.
Lots of love, Kong.
Kongpob stopped himself from pressing the send icon, his eyes plastered on his own name. After a minute of silence, he sighed. "Uh-no."
"Lots of love, Weir," Kongpob mumbled to himself, changing the name. And with a smile on his face, he sends his first email to Arthit.
"What are you gonna look like, Arthit?" Kongpob closed his eyes, their childhood memories weren't crystal clear in his mind. More than a decade has passed since then. But he still remembered them vaguely, while some incidents were plastered in his mind.
He gulped, feeling the same pull in his chest as if something or someone was suffocating him in there.
"W-Will you recognise me, Arthit?"
"David!" Kerkkrai and Chaow were brought into a bone-crushing hug as soon as David stepped out of the train. Eyes whelmed with tears of happiness as the three men hugged.
Achara who stepped out of the train was greeted with the pleasant sight, overwhelming seeing the three best friends reunite after a long time. She turned to Rin who smiled wide at her, stepping forward she hugged the latter.
"We missed you guys soo much," Achara whispered, feeling Rin pat her back.
Rin chuckled through her tears, "We're soo happy to have you guys back finally. We missed you all too."
Once the family gathered themselves, smiling brightly at eachother Kerkkrai couldn't help but notice the absence of a person who he turned towards David and asked.
"Where is Arthit?"
Before David could call out for his son thinking he might have not gotten down from the train yet a voice was heard behind them making them turn their gazes.
"I'm here, uncle!" The pale man, leaning tall against the train, smiling brightly with dimples on both of his cheeks. Hair styled to the side, wearing a black leather jacket over the white t-shirt, in blue jeans waved at the others, happily jogging towards them.
"Oh my, Arthit! You've grown up!" Kerkkrai gasped seeing the boy who he used to carry around in his arms turned to be an adult now, even taller than him. He pulled the younger for a hug.
"Arthit, son! You have grown to be a handsome man!" Chaow couldn't help but exclaim when it was his turn to engulf the latter making Arthit laugh. Happy to have returned to the warm family he had missed soo much.
"Wow! that's Arthit?" Weir couldn't help but gasp, seeing the handsome man that was now hugging his father.
Kongpob glanced at Weir and then back at Arthit, his mind going blank. He was thankful that they stood a little further from the others or else he would have made a fool out of himself if he was to greet Arthit. The man was way beyond his imagination, he couldn't take his eyes off him.
"Not bad at all. I have to deal with him for two weeks, right? Don't worry about it Kong, I will handle it." Weir smirked, crossing his arms in front of his chest. "If not me, who's gonna help you?"
Kongpob wasn't hearing anything, his eyes were glued on the man who was happily laughing and conversing with others. He could feel the excitement bubbling inside him, making tremours run down his skin. Butterflies in his stomach. Years later he was finally seeing the man of his dreams, the man who had turned to be a part of him, a part of his life. Seeing Arthit in person was making his heartbeat raise.
A gasp left Kongpob's lips when Arthit turned towards their direction. He doesn't know if the latter was looking at him or Weir but he didn't care, the man looked as if he was contemplating something before the smile on his lips widened as he excused himself and walked towards them. To Kongpob, Arthit looked as if he was right out of a magazine.
But the next second Kongpob's heart drops, and the smile on his lips vanished as Arthit walked past him.
"You must be Weir, am I right?"
Kongpob heard Arthit talk to Weir. A dry chuckle left his lips. He bit his trembling lips, trying to suppress the hurt he was feeling. It wasn't Arthit's fault that he didn't recognise him, after all for Arthit it has always been Weir. It was him who was wrong, for keeping even the slightest hope. It was his fault.
"Very well, you found me." Weir giggled, shaking his head when he heard Arthit laugh. He was aware of the intensity of Arthit's gaze on him and somehow he could feel something stirring inside him.
A soft smile graced Arthit's lips, his focus on Weir. Taking in the handsome features of the male he hadn't seen for years. His skin pale pink, jade eyes, and dark silky brown hair. Just like he remembered.
"I told you that I'll recognise you the instant I see you, didn't I? Your image is plastered in my heart."
Weir could feel his cheeks blushing but he tried to mask it with his laughter. He could see the other smiling softly at him.
Kongpob gulps the lump that formed in his throat as he heard Arthit's words. The memories of the last messages they had shared through the e-mails flashed in his mind.
Do you know something? The only photo of you and Kong that I have is 15 years old. I've asked you so many times to send me a photo.
Kongpob couldn't help but chuckle as he stared at his computer, reading Arthit's message. He could imagine the pouting face of the little boy that was in his memories.
Considering what you say, that you know me soo well, I want to see if you'll recognize me when we're face to face.
Kongpob giggled as he typed. Deep down he knows he isn't playing fair, but they have come a long way. And there's no use going back to what they were in the beginning.
Come on! I don't need a picture to recognise you. I'll recognise you the instant I see you. Your image is in my heart. You know that right?
You're a liar.
Kongpob giggled but the next message that popped on the screen made his eyes go wide and his fingers freeze on the keyboard.
We'll see who the liar is soon, I have some good news! I'm coming home! I'm coming back to Thailand and I'm going to see you again! After so long, It'll be like I'll be seeing you for the first time.
Gosh, I can't wait to see you, Weir. You must be soo beautiful, handsome. I'm sure. Still the charming guy, still the most handsome.
Kongpob gulped. He closed his eyes, clutching his fingers into a tight fist.
"You're even more charming than I had imagined." Arthit just couldn't take his eyes off of Weir that he didn't notice the person who stepped forward to stand beside Weir.
"Sure I'm!" A proud smile plastered on Weir's face.
"But you're not so bad yourself uhh..." Weir looked as if he was thinking making Arthit raise his eyebrows. "-Mr.America!"
Kongpob internally cursed at what Weir called Arthit.
Arthit's eyebrows furrowed as he stared down at Weir, "Mr America? But I'm from London."
Though Weir panicked hearing what the latter said he masked it with his signature smirk," London or America, who cares? Once I have said it, it's final. Understand, Mr America?"
Arthit laughed, hearing the cheeky reply of the other. "God, you're too much."
Weir laughed as he turned towards Kongpob and nudged his shoulders, wiggling his eyebrows making Kongpob laugh. And that caught Arthit's attention, his eyes widened when he spotted the other male.
"Hey, Kong!"
Kongpob smiled, "So you do recognise me."
Arthit chuckled nodding his head, "Of course, I do! Wow! You're all grown up too!"
Arthit leaned towards Kongpob next, acting as if he was whispering, his eyes on Weir. "But I never thought Weir would grow up to look like this."
Weir raised his eyebrows, "What did you think I'll turn into?"
Kongpob chuckled as he watched the two interact. At least Weir wasn't making a fuss about it.
Arthit straightened his posture. A sly smile on his lips as he pocketed his hands, "How can I tell you what I've thought about you?"
Their eyes locked for a moment making Weir shift in his place, when he saw Kerkkrai walking towards them from he quickly walked past Arthit.
"Uncle!"
Kerkkrai smiled wide at the three, wrapping each of his arms around Weir and Arthit. "What are you three doing here? Come on, let's go home. And let's celebrate your dear friend's arrival!"
Kongpob smiled wide watching his father hugging the other two. They look soo perfect.
Kongpob raised his eyebrows at his best friend who fidgeted with his question as they sat on the bench in the garden of their house.
"It's not that I don't like him," Weir shrugged his shoulders with a pout on his lips. "He's good looking. But handsome guys tend to have their noses up in the air. They need to be brought down to earth."
"Like you?" Kongpob teased making Weir punch his shoulder.
"Kong!"
He chuckled, Kongpob then made sure that his friend was looking at him, "Weir, listen, Arthit isn't like that. He is a nice guy, he's understanding and respects you."
"Really?" Weir raised his eyebrow, eyeing his friend suspiciously when the other nodded his head with a smile on his face.
"You seem to be really into Arthit. While writing all those letters, I hope you didn't fall in love with him."
Kongpob's eyes widened, "Weir!"
Weir raised his arms, laughing at the other's shocked face. "Sorry-sorry! How stupid of me to think that you'll fall in love? You're not going to fall in love, you only have time for your books and computer. And you're a good son, the perfect student. You'll most probably marry the person your parents choose for you."
"Weir, stop it already," Kongpob laughed, hiding away what he was actually feeling."And what kind of marriage are you going to have?"
"I'm definitely going to have a love marriage!"
Kongpob gulped, "Are you...in love with Arthit?"
Weir scoffed, folding his arms against his chest as he leaned on the bench, "Weir doesn't fall in love with guys. Guys fall in love with Weir."
"If you're talking about love, then you must be talking about me."
The two best friends were startled at the sudden voice behind them. Kongpob and Weir turned to see Arthit resting his arms on the backrest of the bench, smiling wide at them, showing his dimple.
Weir giggled, "You wish."
The reply made Arthit laugh.
"Had a good sleep, Arthit?" Kongpob asked, smiling softly at the latter. After the Arthit came back home they had spent a lot of time talking and after lunch they let the newcomers take a nap, especially after long hours of the journey they knew the three would be tired.
"Yup! Definitely a good sleep!" Arthit took a deep breath, smiling. "It's soo refreshing to come back home."
"And we're happy to have you back." Kongpob smiled wide when Arthit turned towards him.
"Thank you, Kong."
"Hey, you guys remember? When we were kids we used to come here in the name of studying but I and Arthit would play around while our poor Kong would do our homework!" Weir couldn't help but laugh at the memory.
"Remember we used to race around here?" Arthit smiled wide, his attention on Weir, watching how the other's expressions and gestures changed.
"And you always used to lose!" Weir laughed, pointing at Arthit.
"Well, what can I say? I've already lost my heart to a handsome man, that's all that matters for me." Arthit winked at Weir who chuckled, shaking his head.
"Oh well, I don't talk with losers. So sorry, Mr America."
With that said Weir stood up and walked away leaving Arthit pouting while Kongpob shook his head with a small laugh.
"Where are you going?!" Arthit shouted.
Weir turned around and winked at the latter before he jogged away towards the house.
"He's crazy," Arthit chuckled and he walked around to sit on the bench."And I'm crazy about him."
"You indeed are." Kongpob smiled bitterly, staring at the latter.
"What happened? Are you ok, Kong?"
"Huh?" Kongpob blinked.
Arthit had a concerned look on his face, his next action surprised Kongpob. The other felt a shiver run down his spine when he felt the other's hand on his forehead. The warmth from the other's soft hand melted his insides.
"There's no fever, are you sure you're ok, Kong?"
"Yeah, I'm good." Kongpob tried to laugh it off, even though the contact was just for a few seconds he started to miss it already. "What made you think so?"
Arthit furrowed his eyebrows at the other, "I don't know, you looked a little off. Are you really ok?"
Kongpob chuckled, "I'm fine, Arthit."
"If you say so."
"Let's go inside. Everyone might be looking for you, Weir's Mr America." Kongpob stood up, winking at the latter when he spotted the other's cheeks turn red while he smiled at the way Kongpob addressed him.
"Why are you in soo much hurry to get inside? The weather soo nice today." Arthit pouted, though he wanted to spend time with Weir at the moment it felt nice sitting outside in the garden.
Kongpob only laughed hearing the other whine, as soon as he turned his face away from Arthit he bit the inside of his cheek. Repeating in his mind that he should be happy for Arthit and stop being vulnerable inside.
The evening went by fast for everyone. Laughter and reminiscing memories throughout the evening. Teasing and joking around. Eating delicious meals they had cooked together. It was a beautiful day, staying together with everyone made them realise how much they had missed it. Even though they missed everyone from the day they had parted, getting back together made them realise how much they had missed eachother, their moments together, the intensity of it was unexplainable.
They were glad that they were staying in the house. Before David went away with his family, they used to live under the same roof. A wish the three best friends had from the beginning and were able to make it come true. And when one of them had to leave, it always felt that a part of their home was silent. And it was. Now, with David and his family returning, it felt complete.
With dinner done and everyone wishing eachother goodnight, they spit up to their rooms. Kongpob watched Arthit and Weir standing at the side of the stairs, talking to eachother, with a soft smile on his face. Chuckling at the couple he silently took the stairs, walking towards his room. He had some final work to do before going to bed. And he didn't want to stay longer downstairs and witness Arthit professing his undying love to his best friend. And he could see how Weir was getting comfortable with Arthit's presence, seeing him smile and laugh even though he tries to ignore and brush it off when he asks, made him realise things were going well between them.
Sitting in front of his computer Kongpob sighed, staring blankly at the device for a minute before turning it on. Pushing away from the mundane thoughts inside him he started to do his work.
Kongpob didn't realise how much time had gone by until he heard the voice of the man who could send tremors down him.
"Hey."
Turning towards his open door he smiled seeing the male who was leaning on his door frame."Hi, Arthit."
"I'm sorry, am I disturbing you?" Arthit pointed at the other's computer.
Kongpob chuckled, shaking his head. "Not at all, come in."
He watched as Arthit stepped into his room, a soft smile playing on his lips as he looked around. And Kongpob couldn't help but smile too, seeing the look of curiousness on Arthit.
"This is the same room, isn't it?" Arthit asked making Kongpob confusedly gaze at him.
Turning to face him, Arthit smiled excitedly."This is the room from where Weir used to write to me, right?"
"Yeah, it's." Kongpob smiled, nodding his head."The same room and same computer,"and same me.
Arthit took a deep breath, "Wow, 15 years of waiting. Everything is exactly how I imagined it."
Walking over to sit on the chair beside Kongpob, Arthit rested his head on the table. Staring at the other.
"Are you still working?" Arthit glanced at the computer.
Kongpob nodded his head with a wide smile, thrilled to answer the question."Yeah, I'm applying to some London universities for higher studies."
Arthit's eyes widened in surprise and so did his smile, showing off his beautiful dimples. "London!? You're coming to London and I didn't know?!"
Kongpob laughed at the other's comical face.
"I wanted to surprise you."
"Ok, so what are you going to study?"
"Art."
Arthit gasped, "Art? Wow, Weir loves art too!"
Kongpob smiled slyly, he felt bad that he was doing this to Arthit but he didn't wanna stop it. At least, it felt nice hearing Arthit speaking about his likes and dislikes even though it's in the name of Weir.
"Which university are you applying to?"
With a knowing look on his face, Kongpob replied, "London university."
"Hey! That's my university too!" Arthit raised his hands for a fist bump making Kongpob giggle at the action.
"Yeah, I know. Weir had told me." Kongpob smiled.
Arthit stared at the other for a moment, smiling softly. Their eyes locked and Kongpob felt himself drown in those hazel eyes, feeling as if he was getting pulled inside him.
"Kong, why didn't you ever e-mail me?" Arthit asked suddenly, a confused look on his face. He had always thought about how Kongpob might be all these years, he used to check up on the latter through his e-mails with Weir.
Kongpob sighed, his eyes gliding over Arthit's face, taking in all his features."If I had, would you have replied to me as you replied to Weir?"
Arthit blinked, "Huh? What's that supposed to mean?"
"That's the point, Arthit." Kongpob chuckled, turning his face away from the other, focusing on his computer screen." Anyway, forget it. So, you really like Weir, don't you?"
Kongpob could see how Arthit's smile widened, how his face glowed at the question from the corner of his eyes.
"You're his best friend so I can tell you," A tender smile played on his lips as he rested his face on the table, on top of his hands. Gazing randomly at the wall.
"You know, Kong? Without meeting eachother, without having seen eachother we-"
"Know everything about eachother." Kongpob completed the other's sentence, making the other smile, still not turning to face the other.
Arthit shook his head"Not just that, perhaps we started falling in love-"
"Even without meeting for once," Kongpob smiled, completing the other's words once again. His dark orbs fixed on Arthit's side face, he could hear the loud pounding of his heart.
Arthit nodded his head, a tender look on his face," Without having seen eachother-"
"A beautiful bond had formed." Kongpob's heart skipped a beat as those words escaped his lips.
"And what makes it soo perfect is that Weir is soo handsome, beautiful! Soo perfect!" Arthit sat up straight, a dreamy look on his face as he turned to face Kongpob, smiling broadly.
Kongpob smiled back, "Yeah, he is."
"It feels soo refreshing to talk to you, Kong." Arthit suddenly uttered making Kongpob gasp.
"I feel like I can talk about anything and everything to you and I know you won't judge me! You're a great support to me and Weir too."
Kongpob smiled wide, the small compliment from the other whelmed his heart, "I'm happy to be there for you."
Arthit nodded his head excitedly, "You know, Kong? I never had any best friends so I think you can be mine!"
Kongpob laughed at the innocent remark from the other, the way Arthit was excitedly staring at him like a baby wanting his candy, he suppress the urge to pinch those cheeks.
"So, friends?" Arthit stretched his hand out, his dimples on display, his wide smile unflattering.
Kongpob giggled as he nodded his head, taking Arthit's hand in his, "Friends."
A week passed by in a blink. The three families toured around the country, spending as much time together, and enjoying the time with eachother. The three childhood friends found themselves playing and laughing, teasing and pranking their parents, like they used to, back in the old days.
Though Kongpob found himself third-wheeling between the 'lovely' couple, Kongpob was glad Arthit and Weir didn't completely ignore him. Arthit even found time to talk with him and spend time with him in Weir's absence or if the other is busy talking with the family members. Kongpob would just smile, being himself as Arthit excitedly told stories about London, which most of them Kongpob had already known from the e-mails the other used to tell.
Now looking back at the time, Kongpob missed those e-mails. Even though Arthit was there with him, in person, he seemed soo far, soo distant. But while messages were being passed Kongpob felt close to Arthit, even though the latter was miles away. Words and sentences were what brought them close, Kong treasured every one of them.
Kongpob stretched in his bed, yawning softly. Clutching onto his blanket as he blinked his eyes open. As soon as he opened his eyes and his vision cleared he found Arthit staring right at him, smiling teasingly. Kongpob smiled back, dazed, thinking it was a fragment of his dreams. His eyes softened as he continued to smile at the other until he heard a small chuckle from the said man his eyes widened.
Blinking a few more times Kongpob realised Arthit was actually in his room.
"Good morning, Kong." Arthit giggled when he saw the other's eyes widening.
Gasping Kongpob sat up straight, fixing his hair and clothes."Arthit!? Why are you here early in the morning?"
"What? Can't I come to your room?" Arthit pouted playfully, crossing his arms against his chest.
"Yes, you can, but not without my permission!" Kongpob shook his head.
"But your door wasn't closed, that's your fault."
Kongpob groaned, rolling his eyes when he heard Arthit laughing at him.
"So, what do you want now?" He very well knows that Arthit won't be here unless he wants something from him.
Arthit smiled wide, "Are you going to be busy? What are you doing today?"
"Why?" Kongpob raised his eyebrows suspiciously.
"Well, have lunch with me and Weir today."
Kongpob shook his head immediately, "No, Arthit, not today. I have to go to the library and then-"
Arthit shook his head as he turned around, "No excuses! You're coming with us and that's final!"
"Arthit! Wait!"
Kongpob sighed as he watched Arthit walk out of his room while covering his ears.
"This is such a romantic place, there must be a special reason to bring me here. Isn't it?" Arthit have a reading glance at Weir as he excitedly looked around, there were at an open restaurant, facing a river, cold breeze surrounding the place. It was beautiful.
Weir shook his head, chuckling as he went through the menu. "Yes, there is."
"What?" Arthit turned to face the other, adoration in his eyes.
"Because I'm hungry." Weir nonchalantly replied, laughing silently when he heard the other whine. Well, he didn't have any idea where to take the latter when Arthit asked him to choose a place, but thanks to Kongpob (who he secretly asked for a suggestion) they'll have a good lunch and Arthit will be pleased too.
Pouting at his love interest Arthit proceeded to look around the place. Different couples and families were there, making him smile softly, watching their interactions. And that's when his eyes fell on something.
"Weir, look!" Arthit excitedly nudged the other's shoulder, pointing at a distance.
Weir groaned from being distracted from looking at the menu, he was starving. Turning his face to the direction Arthit was pointing he could only see a man who was reading a book on one of the tables. He gasped playfully as he turned to face Arthit.
"Arthit, you're looking at other boys when I'm with you?"
The latter's eyes widened, "Hey! No! Don't you see what he's reading?"
Weir checked ones again before confusingly asking, "That's 'Love story' right? So?"
"Weir, it's 'Love story'," Arthit emphasised the words, trying to hint Weir what he meant.
Weir shrugged his shoulders, going back to reading the menu."Love stories are soo boring, I find no interest in them."
Arthit pursed his lips, confusion taking over him seeing now nonchalant the other was. Wasn't it Weir himself who had introduced him to that book and now he's behaving like he doesn't know anything?
Have you read 'Love Story'? If not, you should. It's such a nice story. Beautifully written, read it if you can get the book.
Arthit chuckled, Weir's love for books was something that always fascinated him. The last time he had been there with him, during their childhood, Weir wasn't fond of books, not even their school books. But well, a decade has passed already, and people change. Right?
I haven't read it, will surely do after I buy it. If we can connect through books, then so be it.
Stop being such a flirt.
Arthit laughed, leaning on his chair as he stared at the computer screen. The image of the childhood Weir with his eyebrows furrowed and arms crossing his chest, sulking at him, rushed into his mind.
"You-You don't remember?" Arthit asked once again, trying to check if Weir was playing with him.
Weir shrugged his shoulders, "If you hang on to old memories, how will you create new ones, Arthit?"
Arthit stayed silent for a minute before nodding his head, "Okay, if you say so."
Glancing at the latter from time to Arthit doesn't know why but something wasn't sitting well. He doesn't know why he's feeling distant with Weir, even though they had been communicating for the past 15 years over everything and anything.
Deciding to test the latter for the last time Arthit took a deep breath before he started to sing a soft tune. A smile on his lips as he glanced at Weir who still had his eyes on the menu, contemplating what to choose from the variety of options.
"Arthit?"
When Weir finally turned his attention to Arthit the latter perched up, his features expectant of what the other was going to say.
"What will we have? There are soo many amazing options in here!" Weir pouted as he pointed at the menu making Arthit's smile drop.
Picking up his mood Arthit smiled teasingly at the other, "You know what I like."
Weir panicked for a second, his lips parted in surprise with the other's remark. Smiling sheepishly at him, before Arthit could ask anything further a familiar voice interrupted them.
"Pad thai and pink milk!" Kongpob smiled wide as he stood behind Weir, wrapping his arms around his best friend's shoulder.
"Hi, Kong!" Arthit waved at the latter excitedly.
Weir let out a sigh of relief, he should thank Kongpob for saving him from the confusion he was facing.
"I thought you won't be coming," Arthit wiggled his eyebrows.
"Well, he can't ditch his two friends like that. He'll be lonely without us, right Kong?" Weir nudged his shoulders giggling when the other glared at him.
"You're not the only friend that I have."
Weir and Arthit glanced at eachother, stopping themselves from laughing at their friend. Weir turned towards his best friend, "Oh really? Tell me who are your other friends, you introvert!"
Kongpob rolled his eyes making the other two laugh out loud. He couldn't help but pout as the two continued to laugh at him until their moment was interrupted by the ringing of Weir's phone.
Excusing himself Weir took the call, "Hello?"
"Oh, I forgot! I will be there soon!" Weir exclaimed before he hung up on the call and stood up, packing his side bag.
"Arthit, I'm sorry but I have to go." He apologetically glanced at Arthit who pouted at him.
"The college festival is coming up and as usual my dance performance will be the best!" Weir exclaimed with dreamy eyes, confusing Arthit while Kongpob could only chuckle at his best friend's excitement.
Weir patted Arthit's shoulder, "You should definitely come to watch me! Ok? Gotta go now, bye guys!"
"But you said you're hungry?" Arthit stopped the latter making the other chuckle.
"I'll eat from the canteen!"
Weir leaned in towards Kongpob who stood by his side, whispering to him."Thank god you came, you really saved me!"
Kongpob laughed, playfully shaking his head at him. As Weir jogged away Kongpob took the seat beside Arthit which was previously occupied by Weir.
Arthit stares in the direction Weir had gone until the latter disappeared from his sight. The fact that Weir didn't recognise the tune he had sung haunted his mind. That soft music, it was theirs, a tune Arthit had shared with Weir over a recorded mail after only a few months of him landing in London as a child. A piece of music that was a mix of his imagination and a tune he randomly heard at a church in London. The only people who knew about it were him and Weir, but the latter doesn't seem to remember it.
Arthit used to read from the e-mails how much Weir loved to go to church every day, and how he used to hum that tune in the silence of the place. And that it had become a habit of him. But the Weir who was in front of him doesn't seem to portray any of those habits.
"What happened, Arthit?"
Arthit turned to face Kongpob who was staring at him with concern.
"It's nothing," he forced a smile.
Kongpob raised his eyebrow, "Really, Arthit? I can see that something is bothering you."
With a sigh Arthit placed his hands on the table, clutching his palms. "I just...Weir never mentioned having an interest in dance or having dance performances every year in our e-mails. This is the first time he had ever talked about it to me."
"And..." Arthit stopped himself from saying the next thing on his mind. Whatever it was that was something only he and Weir knew and he doesn't want a third person to know about it.
"I can't figure out why Weir seems soo different in person. I thought I knew him very well, everything about him but he seems soo distant from all of those. I thought everything will go as I imagined but slowly I started to realise that it isn't like how I thought it would be."
Kongpob could feel his heart shattering hearing the other's worries. He could see the confusion in the latter's eyes, the whole situation was messed up and only Kong knew that. And he doesn't want anyone else to know about it too, even if it was Arthit or Weir.
"Look at me, Arthit," Kongpob gave a soft smile when the other raised his gaze to meet his. "You both just met for the first time, it has only been a week, give him some time. You know how he is, Weir might not show it but he's just playing hard to get."
Arthit chuckled when Weir winked at him.
"And you know that Weir is a bit forgetful too. So don't mind it," Kongpob waved his hand in dismissal. "Know that writing to someone and meeting them face to face is different, Arthit. When feelings are people are brought in front of eachother, in person, some things change."
Arthit nodded his head, thankful that Kongpob was there to talk with him.
"I would just die to be with him, Kong. When I'm not with him, I imagine what it will be like when we're together, but when we're actually together, it's soo different."
Kongpob smiled when the other pouted, before he could talk further a waiter approached their table.
Arthit's eyes widened when he saw two of his favourite foods on the plate. He excitedly grabbed the plate and bottle.
"Pad thai and Pink milk! Who ordered it?" He started to move his chopsticks inside the noodle bowl, eyes filled with child-like excitement as he stared at his food making Kongpob giggle.
"Me."
Arthit turned to him, surprised at the answer, "How did you know?"
"Uh-Weir told me." Kongpob immediately covered up making Arthit beam.
"Really?" He felt butterflies in his stomach just knowing the fact that Weir knew about his favourite food.
Kongpob nodded his head. He watched fondly as Arthit dug into his food. Stuffing his mouth with hot noodles before Kongpob could warn him.
"Oh-oh! It's soo hot!" Arthit covered his mouth, somehow managing to swallow the food in his mouth.
Kongpob facepalmed, "Arthit, you're such a kid."
Taking the bottle of pink milk on the table Kongpob stretched it towards Arthit, intending for the other to take it from. But instead, Arthit leaned forward, taking the mouth of the straw between his lips, startling the other. Kongpob felt like he would lose his grip on the bottle but somehow Arthit gripped the bottle, over his hand, trying to bring the bottle closer. But the action completely left Kongpob dumbfounded. A shiver ran down his spine at the contact.
"It's more fun when someone feeds you," Arthit innocently stated after the act he pulled, completely unaware of what that did to Kongpob.
Leaning back on the chair Arthit took another bite of the noodles, this time only after blowing them for a few seconds. He moaned at the taste of spices that rushed to his tastebuds. He had missed it.
"By the way, when will Weir be done with his rehearsals?"
"By evening," Kongpob replied dazedly.
Once they both had lunch (with Arthit ordering lunch for Kongpob even though the other dismissed it) they roamed around the place with Kongpob showing off the places and both of them reminiscing memories they had during their childhood.
Kongpob found himself getting more attached to Arthit and even though he had been teaching his mind to not get too close with the latter the situations didn't help. Arthit looked soo happy talking and sharing ideas with him that he didn't have the heart to leave the latter. He couldn't even refuse when the other asks him to join him every time.
Though he knows that he will get hurt in the end Kongpob is at least glad that he could spend time with Arthit and make memories that only he might be cherishing in the end. It didn't matter, after all, it was his choice. He would make the best out of the time he has with Arthit and will walk away when the time comes.
"Your college is really awesome," Arthit exclaimed as he looks around the campus.
It's already evening and since Weir's rehearsal was going to end soon, Arthit insisted Kongpob to take him to the campus.
"You can look around if you want to but I have to go to the library before it closes. I have to return some books." Kongpob said as he took out the books from his bag.
"Oh well! I'll come with you." Arthit shrugged his shoulders making Kongpob chuckle.
"Wow, you read a lot of romantic books I see." Arthit pointed at the books in the other's hands as they stepped into the library.
Kongpob chuckled, walking towards the librarian at the desk.
"Well, it's interesting. Do you read books?" Kongpob asked, knowing very well the answer to his own question.
Arthit nodded his head immediately, "I do! Weir was the one who suggested me to start reading and I just fell in love with it. It's an amazing feeling. I like reading romantic books too."
"Yeah, sometimes we feel like it's us in there. Our heart breaks when the characters experience heartbreaks, and we smile when they smile. We put ourselves in their position sometimes. I-" Kongpob stopped himself from talking further, knowing he might lose it if he continues.
Arthit smiled at the other's words, he perfectly understood what Kongpob tried to express. Books, and words, they're the best way to bring out the emotions in you even if they won't fully pen down what you really feel inside, deep inside. They can at least bring out a fragment of it. And a lot more than that at times. Words held those power. To destroy and to build.
"I don't know why Kong but I feel like you know me well." Arthit suddenly voiced out after they stepped out of the library startling the other.
"W-What do you mean? It's been only a week since you came back." Kongpob laughed it off even though his heart was pounding inside him.
"I know, but I just feel so. You understand me soo well, listen to me better than Weir does. I find that we can talk about anything and everything, a feeling I used to have when I used to send emails with Weir. You give me a much better response. I know it sounds weird but it just feels like you understand me better than Weir does."
Kongpob raised his head, looking up at Arthit. Their gazes meet and Kongpob finds himself admiring the man in front of him. The evening rays were falling on the latter, laying orange hues on his snow-like skin. Arthit looked like a literal angel. He just never fails to captivate him, inside out.
Pulling himself out of his thoughts Kongpob softly smiled at the other, nudging his shoulders. "You're wrong, Arthit. Weir knows you better than I do. You guys have been in touch from the beginning. I just came into the picture now. Just give him time, Weir is the sweetest."
Arthit nodded his head, a tight smile on his lips."Yeah, I know."
"Come on! Let's go see Weir, if you've luck then you'll be able to see him dance." Kongpob winked at him making the latter laugh.
As they walked into the rehearsal room they could see a lot of students were present there. But anyone could point out Weir, even from a crowd. He always stood out, with his looks and personality. Weir always attracted attention, wherever he was. Kongpob would agree to the statement without a bat of an eyelid.
"Oh, seems like he's done. Better luck next time, lover boy." Kongpob gave a sympathetic look to the other after noticing that Weir was packing up his stuff. He called out for the latter next making Weir turn his attention from his friends to who he was talking to.
His eyes widened as he spotted his two friends, waving excitedly at him. He was more surprised to see Arthit with Kongpob and he could already hear the other students murmuring about the new face.
Weir jogged up to them, his face sweaty from all the practice."Hey! You guys came to pick me up?!"
"Of course yes, my prince." Arthit winked at the latter, crossing his arms against his chest. The action made Weir giggle while Kongpob chuckled at the two.
"Ok then! I'll finish things up quickly and bring my bags. I did a little shopping with others for my costume, so I have to take it too!" Weir winked back at Arthit before jogging away to pack his things.
"I really doubt whether you went to practice or to buy a mall," Arthit looked at the paper bags in his hand that Weir had given him to hold as they walked towards their house.
Weir shrugged his shoulders, "Well, I have to have the perfect look for the dance!"
The other could only gasp while Kongpob laughed, "And all this shopping is just for that?"
"I couldn't make up my mind." Weir pouted.
"So you decided to buy the whole store, I see," Kongpob stated as a matter of fact making Weir step forward and playfully glare at his best friend.
"Kong!"
Kongpob stuck his tongue out at the other.
"Stop fighting you two, we're here already." Arthit nudged Kongpob's shoulder, pointing at their house.
Weir giggled before he stepped towards Arthit, taking the paper bags from him. "Ok then, good night."
He proceeded to walk in first, they were already late. Thankfully their parents allowed them to have dinner outside. But before Weir could step further Arthit caught his hand. The action took Kongpob's focus on the joined hands.
"Don't you have something to say to me?" Arthit gave the latter a sly smile, a knowing look on his face.
Weir blinked, feigning innocence."What?"
"Do I have to tell you?" The other's eyebrows furrowed.
Weir laughed, shaking his head."Not soo fast, Mr America."
Arthit's lips dropped, "I have been professing my love to you from the time I landed here. But here, you can't even say those three words to me? Why are you making me wait?"
"Don't be in a hurry, young man." Weir patted his shoulders encouragingly.
"15 years is a long time!"
"Kong! Don't you think 15 years is a long time?" Arthit turned towards the other, pleading with his eyes to help him.
Kongpob bit the inside of his cheeks as he shrugged his shoulder. Smiling softly he walked past Arthit and Weir, taking the initiative to walk into their house first.
"Kong! Come on! Help me please!"
Kongpob stopped in his tracks, hearing Arthit's adorable pleading voice, it made him chuckle. A bitter smile on his face.
"15 years wasn't long enough."
Arthit blinked in confusion as he watched Kongpob walk away. Reminding the two to not stay outside for long so they won't catch a cold.
"Why can't he just give a simple answer to a simple question?" Arthit couldn't help but wonder and he was replied with the beautiful laughter of his love.
"Keep thinking. I'm off, good night!" Weir waved his two hands full of bags.
Arthit smirked, his gaze preventing Weir from moving away.
"That's not how we say good night in London, Weir."
Weir raised an eyebrow, a sly smile on his lips."Then tell me, Mr America, how do you say good night in London?"
A breathy chuckle left Arthit's lips. His eyes danced over the other's features as he stepped closer. "First you need to step a little closer."
Weir could feel himself gulping at the other's proximity. His heartbeat raised as his eyes landed on the other's rosy lips which were parted softly.
"Next, your eyes need to be closed." Weir held his breath in when slender fingers glided over his eyes, closing them.
He could feel the other's fingers caressing over his cheeks, sending chills down him. Slowly feeling the other's breath on his face, getting closer and warmer. He opened his eyes next, staring right into the hazel pair. He broke their gaze, a shy smile on his lips as he turned around. His back to the other.
Arthit chuckled, finally being able to see a reaction from the other. They didn't say anything. Arthit just watched Weir walk away, stopping when he was about to open the door.
Weir turned around, smiling at the other. "Good night, Arthit."
Arthit couldn't help the wide smile that took over his lips. Weir had already stepped inside the house while he was still outside. Arthit didn't feel like getting in yet, he was just soo happy. His excitement was evident on his face. Pocketing his hands he giggled to himself. Weir is finally with him, he could see the other was coming in terms with his presence and it was making him soo happy. But what was this nagging sensation inside him?
Kongpob covered his mouth, stopping his sobs from escaping his lips as he watched Arthit, from his room's window. He saw everything, the almost kiss, the moment that Weir and Arthit shared. He tried to smile through his tears but it wasn't helping.
He's not your Kong, you have no right to cry over him. Kongpob tried to teach his mind. But he knew that it was of no use.
Kongpob walked into the store, sighing when he spotted Arthit inside, looking at something in his hand.
"Arthit, what are you doing here?" Kongpob asked as he stepped towards the latter, looking around the jewellery shop.
Arthit smiled wide, he took Kongpob's hand and pulled him towards the mirror stand. "Come here."
Kongpob gave the latter a confused stare as he made him stand in front of the mirror. Before he could ask Arthit's hands were in front of him and before he knew there was a pendant being placed on his neck.
"Arthit..." Kongpob gasped, reaching up to caress the accessory on his neck. A silver heart pendant at that.
"How will this look on Weir?" Arthit asked excitedly, his hands holding the pendant around the other's neck, he expectantly looked at Kongpob through the mirror.
Kongpob's face fell at the question, feeling a suffocating squeeze inside him. But he covered it up with his signature smile.
"It would look beautiful on anyone, Arthit."
Arthit chuckled nodding his head, he removed the pendant from Kongpob and placed it in his hand. Nudging the other, asking him to look at the pendant.
"This is not an ordinary pendant, Kong. Look here..." As soon as Arthit exerted pressure on the pendent the heart broke into two.
"Ouch!" Kongpob hissed, "You really know how to break hearts."
Arthit looked up sceptically at the other who was smiling teasingly at him."No, I'm not. I'm reuniting hearts here."
Kongpob laughed it off, nodding his head. His eyes on the broken pendant.
"One half of this will stay with me and the other with Weir. Isn't it amazing?"
Kongpob could feel the nervousness and excitement in the other's voice, he could only smile hearing him. He nodded his head at the expectant gaze of the other making Arthit beam.
"I wanted to show you before I brought it." Arthit quickly hugged the latter, even though the action didn't mean anything to him, for Kongpob it meant a lot.
"I want to give this to him before he gets on the stage today."
"Marking your territory, I see." Kongpob jokingly responded even though he could feel himself shattering.
"Well, what can I say?" Arthit shrugged his shoulders, laughing along with the other. Their shoulders brushed against eachother.
"I don't know if I'll be able to give it before he goes on stage but I'll definitely give this to him today."
"I'll buy this then, right?" Arthit raised the pendant, showing it to Kongpob after attaching the hearts back to one.
Kongpob nodded his head smiling warmly at the other.
Arthit gave him a thumbs up before he turned around, stepping toward the salesperson, he handed the pendant to the latter. "I'll have one of these please, thank you."
"Sure sir."
Arthit glanced at Kongpob who was looking around the place now, a small smile graced his lips as an idea popped in his head.
"Actually, give me one more of that." Arthit's request to the salesperson brought Kongpob's attention to him, the latter raised an eyebrow.
"One more? For who?"
"For you." Arthit winked at him.
Kongpob blinked, "Me?"
"When you find someone special, you can gift it to him. Isn't that nice?" Arthit smiled wide.
Kongpob pursed his lips, a bitter smile on his lips as he stared back at Arthit. Into those captivating hazel orbs.
"Finding someone special isn't easy, Arthit."
Arthit's eyebrows furrowed at the other's response, he could see that Kongpob got disturbed suddenly but he doesn't know why. He doesn't think there's anything wrong with what he said, he didn't do anything that would make the other sulk so the look on Kongpob's face confused him.
"I'll wait outside, let's go to college, we don't wanna be late for his performance." Before Arthit could speak Kongpob walked out of the store, leaving him confused.
And he found himself forgetting about it after he got into the taxi Kongpob came in, driving towards the other's college the very next second. It was the college festival that day and as he promised Weir, he was attending the function too.To see his love, his Weir, dance on the stage for the first time in his life. It's already past 5 in the evening, he hopes that they won't be late.
And in his excitement, he completely failed to notice the slightly shaking form of his friend who sat beside him.
When they reached campus they already knew the program had started. They were thankfully able to stand in front of the stage, among the crowd that has formed, when they stepped into the program hall. They had to wait until two programmes were over to hear Weir's name being called on the stage.
Kongpob and Arthit found themselves screaming Weir's name at the top of their lungs along with the others when Weir entered the stage with his team, his signature smirk on his lips as he eyed the crowd.
"Damn he's soo handsome!"
Kongpob could only chuckle when he heard Arthit gasping beside him.
As the music started Arthit was surprised at how loud the crowd was cheering for Weir, the latter was indeed very famous among them. And he found himself gaping as he watched Weir start his dance. He never knew the other could dance soo well, the way he bends his body and how flexible he was with his moves stunned him.
You lift my heart up
When the rest of me is down
You, you enchant me, even when you're not around
If there are boundaries, I will try to knock them down
I'm latching on babe
Now I know what I have found
Arthit gasped when Weir turned towards him, their eyes locked and he grinned wide when the other winked at him. Continuing to dance.
I feel we're close enough
I wanna lock in your love
I think we're close enough
Could I lock in your love, baby?
Kongpob glanced at Arthit when he found Weir pointing at the crowd, especially towards Arthit's direction. It was easy to find them even in the crowd as they were at the front of the stage. He found Arthit smiling wide towards the stage, giving Weir a flying kiss.
Now I got you in my space
I won't let go of you
Got you shackled in my embrace
I'm latching on to you
Now I got you in my space
I won't let go of you
Got you shackled in my embrace
I'm latching on to you
I'm so encaptured,
got me wrapped up in your touch.
Feel so enamoured,
hold me tight within your clutch.
How do you do it?
You got me losing every breath
What did you give me to make my heart beat out my chest?
Kongpob continued to cheer for Weir along with the crowd but his attention was robbed by Arthit who was beside him. Singing the song along with the music. And though Kongpob couldn't hear him clearly due to the cheering crowd, he loved it when Arthit sang. And he wished he could have a chance to hear him sing in a quiet place.
Now I got you in my space
I won't let go of you
Got you shackled in my embrace
I'm latching on to you
I'm latching on to you
I won't let go of you
I'm latching on to you
I won't let go of you
Kongpob looked up at Arthit, among the crowd that surrounded them. He watched as Arthit happily stared at the stage, and he could see Weir staring back at Arthit too as he stopped dancing. Breathing heavily.
The smiles on both of his friends' faces made him smile too.
"Congratulations to Weir!"
Everyone raised their wine glasses as Kerkkrai raised the toast. Laughing and cheering as the glasses made noise.
"As always, our Weir has won again!" Kerkkrai wrapped his hand over Weir, hugging him, making the younger giggle.
"Whose son am I?" Weir wiggled his eyebrows with a proud smirk on his lips as he glanced at Chaow.
Chaow could only chuckle, smiling proudly at his son as the others cheered at what Weir said.
"We're soo happy that you guys are here to celebrate this with us this year." Chaow smiled at David who patted his back.
"We surely missed a lot of things but hey! We're gonna relive it, make better memories!" David glanced at everyone who smiled wide at him, cheering.
"Weir."
Weir blinked, turning his attention to Arthit who whispered his name, "What?"
"Come with me."
Before Weir could react he was pulled away from the living room, towards the front yard. Away from everyone.
"Hey! Why are we here?" Weir asked confused, checking from time to time if others were looking for them.
"I wanted to give you something." Arthit smiled widely confusing Weir further but when the latter pulled something out of his pocket he couldn't help but gasp.
Arthit smiled softly when he spotted the other staring at the pendant dangling in his grip with his lips parted in surprise. He raised the pendant, showing it properly to Weir. "I wanted to give you this."
"One half of this heart will be with me," Weir gulped when Arthit turned the pendant into two halves. "And the other half with you."
Weir was too stunned to speak, a surprised smile on his face. "That's beautiful, Arthit."
Arthit smiled wide, his heart beating fast as he stepped closer. Looking down at Weir he slowly took one of the halves and placed it around the other's neck, locking it in place.
"Now, that looks beautiful." The other's compliment made Weir giggle.
"You're such a romantic, Arthit." Weir shook his head, laughing in delight.
"You only got to find that out now?" Arthit raised his eyebrows to which the other shook his head, giggling.
"Pulling such a stunt, what are you planning to do?" Weir smirked, and his hand reached up to caress the pendant on his neck.
"Well..." Arthit licked his lips, "Confess to me again, properly."
"Again?"
Weir blinked when the other nodded, confused as to what the other was speaking about until he realised what Arthit was referring to, making him laugh as he playfully hit the other's shoulder.
"Hey, Mr America, that was just a song! Did you really believe it?"
"Don't be shy, Weir. Say it already, that you love me."
Weir playfully rolled his eyes, not yet ready to give in to the other.
"Come on, just on-"
"Arthit! Weir! Why are you guys standing there?"
The two watched as Kongpob stepped out of the house, raising an eyebrow at the two as he walked closer to the.
"Nothing, just talking." Arthit side-eyed Weir, the action caught Kongpob's attention. He looked at his best friend, immediately spotting the solvent chain around his neck that wasn't there before. Kongpob understood what had transpired between them, making him take a deep breath.
Kongpob turned around, his back facing the two as he started walking. "We're taking photos, come inside. I don't think you guys wanna be left out."
"Of course not! Come, Weir." Arthit took Weir's hand in his, pulling him with him.
When David spotted the three walking back inside he clapped his hands, gaining the attention of the rest.
"Ok, the kids are here! Photo time!"
Kerkkrai immediately set up the camera on the tripod, while Chaow guided the rest to take their positions. Once everyone was ready, setting the timer, Kerkkrai rushed to stand beside his wife.
Numerous photos were taken, capturing the happiest moments, filled with smiles and laughter.
"Now all the adults move aside! Let the kids pose now!" Kerkkrai called out.
"Yes! Finally, a photo that isn't 15 years old!" Arthit breathed in relief making Kongpob laugh at the other's reaction, knowing very well what the other was thinking while Weir gave a weird glance at Arthit.
Standing between Kongpob and Weir, Arthit wrapped his arms around the two, smiling brightly at the camera as pictures were taken. He glanced at Weir who was posing beside him, with a teasing smile on his lips Arthit leaned over to the other.
"Say it, Weir," Arthit whispered making Weir pause. "Say that you love me."
Kongpob clenched his jaw, hearing Arthit talk soo softly at the other. Asking Weir to declare his love. He knows he shouldn't be feeling this way but at that point, he didn't care, he just wanted to stay away. The whole evening Arthit's attention was on Weir and he doesn't blame him, after all, who was he to Arthit?
Pulling away from Arthit's arms he signalled to Kerkkrai that he was going to bed.
"Where are you going?" Arthit asked when he realised Kongpob wasn't beside him.
the other gave a tight smile, "It's late, I'm going to bed. Good night."
"Good night, Kong!" Weir waved at his best friend who waved back.
Arthit turned his attention back to Weir, "Why are you making me wait? Don't I have the right to hear an 'I love you' from you?"
Weir stepped forward to stand in front of Arthit, smirking at the latter but before he could open his mouth he spotted David looking right at them with a sly smirk on his lips, making him gasp.
Arthit's eyebrows furrowed seeing the other's shocked face, he turned around. Gasping when he came face to face with his father.
"Huh Papa," Arthit nervously laughed when David wiggled his eyebrows.
"Uh-That- I-" He rubbed the back of his neck, getting an idea he pointed at his clothes. "It's bedtime. I should better go and change."
David could only laugh when his son ran away, taking the stairs. He glanced at Weir who was still standing in the same spot, he smiled dearly at the latter who suddenly blushed.
Weir cleared his throat, he excuse himself before rushing to his room, upstairs. David chuckles at the younger, already making a decision in his mind.
As soon as Weir stepped into his room he rushed to the corner, where he had kept his mother's photo. Kneeling in front of it he rested his head on the table.
"Nothing ever seemed to make me shy. I've never felt anything in my heart for anyone before, but now, whenever Arthit...." Weir closed his eyes sighing before opening his eyes, pouting at his mother's photo. "You know what I mean right?"
"But I don't know what you're trying to say."
Weir gasped hearing the voice. Turning around, standing absurdly he narrowed his gaze at the intruder.
"Arthit!"
"It's the first time I'm seeing you talk to Aunty," Arthit smiled, glancing at the photo. Walking closer to Weir.
Weir smiled softly, "I talk to her every day, it's a habit."
Arthit's face went blank, pouting the next second as he faced Weir. "I didn't know that you talk to Aunty every day. I thought I knew everything about you."
"You have hidden quite a lot from me." He smirked, making Weir roll his eyes.
"Arthit, it's not good to eavesdrop."
"But you were talking about me."
Weir shook his head, "Don't be soo full of yourself. What did you think? That I think about you all the time?"
Arthit shrugged his shoulders, "Not all the time, maybe just all day."
"Well, I could dream of you when I'm asleep too." Weir teased back, giggling seeing Arthit blush a little.
"Well, looks like that's where we'll meet next."
Weir gave the other a confused look, it surprised him seeing him sigh.
"Why so?"
Arthit bit his lips, "I have to go back, Weir. Tomorrow."
"Tomorrow?! Why soo soon?" The latter couldn't help but gasp.
"I did write to you that I was only coming for two weeks, didn't I?"
"Wrote?" Weir blinked, his lips forming an 'O' when the realisation hit him, making Arthit raise his eyebrows at him. "Oh, your e-mail!."
He continued to pout, "Arthit, can't you stay for a few more days?"
Arthit chuckled, reaching up to hold Weir's hand, "Nope, not possible. We're launching a website for a British company-"
Arthit frowned when Weir removed his hand from his and turned his back on him. "Hey, what happened?"
"You're the one who is leaving and you're asking me what happened?" Weir grumbled making Arthit chuckle.
"Come on, I'm going away but I'll be back. I promise."
Stepping forward, smiling at the pouting male in front of him, still sulking. "But I still haven't heard what I've been waiting to hear. Won't you say it once before I leave?"
Weir shook his head immediately, "Go away, I won't say it till you're back."
Arthit sighed. Shaking his head in defeat.
"Now I will definitely have to come back."
"Yeah, now leave me alone." Weir crossed his arms against his chest. He gasped the next second when a pair of lips landed on his cheek.
When he turned around he found Arthit already out of his room. Weir could only giggle, feeling butterflies in the pit of his stomach.
Smiling to himself Arthit walked out of his lover's room. When he walked past Kongpob's room, to reach his, he found the lights turned on and Kongpob leaning on his bed, reading a book.
Smiling widely he decided to talk with the latter.
"Hey! You're still awake?" Arthit asked as he stepped into the room, gaining Kongpob's attention from the book.
"Well, you're too." Kongpob chuckled, watching the other flop on the bed beside him. Laying his head on his lap, making the other gasp.
"I was saying goodbye to Weir." Arthit sighed, staring at the ceiling.
"Bye?" Kongpob's lips parted when he realised. "Oh yeah! You're leaving tomorrow. You have to launch that website, right?"
Arthit turned his head to face Kongpob, "You remember everything and Weir didn't even remember that I was leaving today."
Kongpob bit the inside of his cheek, setting his book aside he scolded himself in his head for not being careful with what he had talked about.
"Maybe he doesn't want to remember." Kongpob tried to cover up.
"Makes sense." Arthit nodded his head but Kongpob could see that the other was still bothered, he doesn't know if it was about what he said or anything else.
"He still hasn't told me he loves me."
Arthit's sudden revelation made Kongpob snap his gaze at the other. He couldn't read what the other was thinking but he sure knows the other is overthinking.
"Did you tell him?"
Arthit shook his head, sitting up. Kongpob sighed in relief, he had been controlling his emotions from the time the other laid on laps, though he miss the feeling now he was half the other moved away.
"Do I need to? It should just be understood." Arthit shrugged his shoulders.
Kongpob chuckled at the other's childish behaviour."Maybe you didn't understand what matters to the heart."
Arthit turned to face Kongpob, blinking, the other's words sinking in him. He chuckled when Kongpob wiggled his eyebrows playfully.
"How do you do this, Kong? How do you understand me soo well? You give the best talks!"
Kong laughed even though he could feel his heart breaking inside, knowing he wouldn't be able to do anything more for Arthit.
"If you take you for a friend, I have to live up to that. right?" Kongpob had a proud smile as he stared at the other.
Arthit laughed, nodding his head. They went silent the next second, a comfortable silence. Kongpob watched as Arthit looked around his room, he could only smile as he observed the latter. He's only going to see Arthit now, after that he doesn't know when the other will return from London.
"Hey!" Arthit gasped, standing up from the bed he rushed towards the bookshelf in Kongpob's room.
Kongpob gasped, eyes widening when he saw the book that Arthit took from the shelf. He immediately removed the blanket that covered his legs and stood up, stumbling when the blanket tangled his legs. He almost thought he was going to fall when a pair of strong arms wrapped around his waist.
Kongpob looked up, breathing heavily, his heartbeat racing inside his chest. Gulping as he stared right into his favourite pair of hazel orbs that held concern for him, he found himself melting in his gaze.
"You ok, Kong?"
Arthit's voice broke Kongpob from his stupor. Clearing his throat Kongpob nodded, standing up straight.
"Y-yeah, I'm fine. Thank you."
Arthit smiled, he then reached down to take the book that fell from his grip when he saw Kongpob tripping.
"Well, what were you looking for?" Kongpob gulped as he asked.
The other smiled widely, raising the book in his hand at Kongpob.
"Love story, is this book yours?" Arthit tilted his head, his dimples on display.
Kongpob's toes curled in, his fingers fidgeted nervously. "Yeah, it's- I mean, no. I just got it from the library."
Arthit nodded his head, looking down at the book he smiled softly, caressing it before he kept it back on the shelf. "You should definitely read it. It's such a wonderful book."
"Yeah, I will." Kongpob tried to smile.
Facing the other Arthit observed him for a few seconds.
"Are you hiding something from me?"
Kongpob gulped, stopping himself from reacting to the question. To not show any emotion.
"What? No! What made you say that?"
Though the other suspiciously raised his eyebrows at him Arthit let it slip, nodding his head. "Nothing you looked suspicious."
"You're seeing things." Kongpob dismissed it, chuckling.
When Kongpob thought he wasn't gonna get any more heart attacks for the night he was very wrong. He almost felt like his heart will burst out of his chest when Arthit unexpectedly pulled him in for a hug. A tight hug, almost making him feel breathless.
But he tried to compose himself, hugging the other back. If this was the only way he had a chance to hold the other close to him, then he will take it.
"I'll miss you, Kong," Arthit murmured before he pulled away with a pout on his lips.
"Why don't you come with me, Kong? You have to do your interview for admission at some point, so why not come now?"
Kongpob chuckled at the other's childish request, he ruffled the other's hair making Arthit pout more.
"How can I go before I hear from them, Arthit?"
Arthit sighed defeatedly, "It'd be nice if you were there. I won't feel far away from Weir."
Kongpob crossed his arms against his chest, pointing playfully at Arthit.
"Oh, so that's why you want me there? Not because you truly miss me."
"Come on, Kong!" Arthit laughed, "You know that's not it."
"You've become such a good friend of mine in these few days. So what if I need my friend close to me? Is it too much to ask?"
Kongpob shook his head, though Arthit only saw him as a friend and it hurts him, hearing Arthit say that made him feel overwhelmed.
"I give you my word. When you close your eyes and think of me, I'll be there." Kongpob smiled warmly, tilting his head when Arthit stared at him, surprised.
"Promise?" Arthit lifted his little finger.
Kongpob laughed as he joined his little finger with the other. "Promise."
"I'll take you on that!" Arthit fist-bumped, turning around to leave. "Bye then, goodnight!"
Kongpob waved at the latter, staring at Arthit until he was out of his sight. A bitter smile played on his lips as he wrapped his arms around himself. "I'll miss you, Arthit."
Sighing he walked back to his bed, taking his book on the bed and closing it. Keeping it on the nightstand, he wasn't in the mood to read anymore.
When he was about to drink some water from his bottle he found it empty. Sighing he took the empty bottle and decided to fill it. When he went down the stairs, he could hear their parents' voices in the living room. When he was about to walk into the kitchen David's words caught his attention.
"I like Weir, I have seen him from when he was a baby. We'll be happy to have him as our Arthit's spouse."
Kongpob gasped, his eyes widened. He pressed his back against the wall, making sure the others didn't see him.
"What do you say, Achara?" David excitedly asked his wife.
Achara smiled wide, glancing at Rin who was beside her. "I've been hoping to have a son-in-law and Weir is like our own son. What more should we think about it?"
Kongpob covered his mouth, his eyes blurry, shaking as he tried to compose himself.
"I can't believe this. You're such a successful man and you want my Weir as your son-in-law. I just don't know-"
"Hey!" David interrupted Chaow from saying anything further. "This isn't a drama, Chaow. And I'm not joking about this either. I saw how in love our two sons are."
"But-" Chaow pressed his lips together when David raised his hand at him.
"Chaow, money alone doesn't make you successful, for now, can we put a value on our friendship?"
Chaow smiled through the tears of happiness that flowed from his eyes. He nodded his head making Kerkkrai and Rin share happy smiles behind them.
David reached out to hold Chaow's hand, smiling assuringly at him."This is my promise to you, Chaow. Arthit will marry Weir."
Kongpob closed his eyes tight, letting his tears fall. He tried wiping them as he ran away from the place, he wasn't thirsty anymore. The only thing he was feeling right now was the feeling of his heart breaking into a million pieces.
"Damn it, Kong!" He hissed at himself, covering his lips. He locked himself in his room, sitting on the bed, clutching his bedsheet in a tight grip.
He should be happy for Weir and he is blaming himself for not feeling that way.
He's such a bad friend.