As the first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, Arthit stirred awake, his body still entwined with Kongpob's. The storm had passed, leaving behind a peaceful calm that contrasted sharply with the intensity of the previous night. 

Arthit blinked his eyes open, feeling the warmth of Kongpob nestled against him. Kongpob was still fast asleep, his face soft and unguarded, a stark contrast to the playful banter and shy confessions of the night before. Arthit smiled to himself, gently running his fingers through Kongpob's tousled hair. The remnants of the storm still lingered in the form of dampness in the air, but the warmth they had shared under the blankets had kept the cold at bay.

Arthit watched Kongpob for a few moments, his heart swelling with affection. Last night had been unexpected—a series of revelations and shared secrets that made Arthit feel closer to Kongpob than ever. He couldn't help but replay the moment when Kong had called him "Yenanga," the affectionate term that still sent a thrill through him. 

Careful not to disturb Kong, Arthit gently shifted, propping himself up on one elbow to get a better look at his sleeping partner. Kongpob's lips were slightly parted, his breathing even and soft. Arthit's gaze wandered to the ring now resting on his finger, the one Kongpob had impulsively slid onto him in the middle of the night. The simple band felt like a promise, a binding that was more intimate and meaningful than any formal ceremony could offer. He already felt like he had every right over Kongpob and it made him feel very possesive and protective. He could already feel how hard it will be to leave Kong behind, drop him at Vrun's Anna's house rather than taking him to his home. 

Arthit's hand hovered over Kongpob's cheek, tempted to wake him, but he held back. Instead, he leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to Kong's forehead, feeling a surge of protectiveness and love. He knew they had crossed a threshold in their relationship—one that went beyond the physical warmth they'd shared. It was about trust, vulnerability, and a deepening bond that neither of them had fully anticipated. As he settled back into the pillows, Arthit allowed himself to drift in the quiet comfort of the moment. The sunlight grew stronger, casting a warm glow over the room, and Arthit could see the faintest smile tugging at the corners of Kongpob's lips as he slept. It was as if Kongpob could sense the love and affection surrounding him, even in his dreams. 

Arthit couldn't help but chuckle softly as he recalled Kongpob's sleepy confession about being the author of those gay romance novels, the ones Arthit had secretly adored. The idea of his shy, somewhat reserved Kongpob writing passionate, explicit scenes had been both surprising and endearing. Arthit felt a surge of pride knowing that his partner had such a vivid imagination and a way with words. He shifted closer, carefully tucking the blankets more securely around Kongpob's bare shoulders. The thought of facing the day without disturbing this peaceful moment made him reluctant to move, but he knew Kongpob needed his rest. Their relationship had taken a leap forward last night, and Arthit wanted to savor the calm that followed.

But even as he lay there, Arthit couldn't resist tracing his fingers lightly over Kongpob's arm, feeling the smooth skin beneath his touch. It was a simple gesture, but it was enough to stir Kongpob from his slumber. Kongpob's eyes fluttered open slowly, still clouded with sleep, and he gazed up at Arthit with a sleepy, contented smile.

"Good morning," Arthit whispered, his voice soft and full of warmth. Kongpob's smile widened as he snuggled closer into Arthit's chest, burying his face in the warmth of Arthit's chest. "Good morning, Pattu (Silk) " he mumbled, the term slipping out naturally, still laced with the intimacy of the night before "Still feels like a daydream"

Arthit's heart skipped a beat at the sound of endearment from Kong, the first one ever, and he couldn't help but grin. "Pattu?"

Kongpob nodded sleepily, his eyes half-closed as he nuzzled against Arthit. "Mmm... feels right," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "You are like silk- deceptively strong yet softer ; pure and good. "

Arthit chuckled, wrapping his arms more securely around Kongpob, pulling him closer. "I'm glad," he replied softly, pressing another kiss to Kongpob's hair. "I don't think I'll ever get tired of hearing it."

"This is special occasion.." Kong sassed " I am not going to use it regularly...looses charm"

"Is that so?" Arthit teased " I will always make special occasions . my love. I know my lovely author can find more of the new suitable words"

" Lazy.." Kong mumbled, "my brain is sleepy"

"I know ways to make it awake" Arthit retorted playfully " But, your husband will let you sleep some more.."

"So generous.." Kong couldn't keep sarcasm out of his voice.

Arthit chuckled. They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other, with the morning light slowly filling the room. 

The world outside was waking up, but for Arthit and Kongpob, time seemed to stand still. There was no rush, no need to move or speak. The warmth of their bodies, the gentle rise and fall of their breathing, and the quiet comfort of their shared space were all they needed.Eventually, Kongpob stirred, lifting his head to meet Arthit's gaze. There was a mix of shyness and affection in his eyes, a lingering hint of last night's vulnerability. "Are you sure you're okay with... everything?" Kongpob asked hesitantly, his voice small.

Arthit smiled, reaching out to gently cup Kongpob's cheek. "I'm more than okay, Kutti," he assured him, using the term of endearment that had become so natural between them. "I'm honored that you shared so much with me. And I meant what I said—I'm here for all of it, every part of you."Kongpob's eyes softened, and he leaned into Arthit's touch, closing his eyes briefly.

 "Thank you," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. Arthit's thumb brushed lightly over Kongpob's cheek as he leaned in for a tender, lingering kiss. When they finally pulled apart, Kongpob sighed, a contented sound that made Arthit's heart swell.

"Let's stay like this a little longer na," Kongpob suggested, his voice still tinged with sleep " I am not ready to part yet."

Arthit nodded, shifting them both into a more comfortable position under the blankets. "As long as you want, Kanna," he whispered back, adjusting Kongpob's head on his chest, his voice full of affection. "We have all the time in the world." Kong savoured the blissful feeling, hearing Arthit's heart beat - wondering if his heart matched Arthit's rhythm.

And as they lay there, wrapped in each other's warmth, the promise of the day ahead felt less daunting. Whatever challenges or surprises awaited them, Arthit knew they would face them together. For now, though, he was content to hold onto this moment, to the peace they had found in each other's arms, and to the love that had only just begun to unfold between them.

...................................

Kong doesn't know how long he slept after that, he was shaken awake by Arthit " Kong...Anna wants to talk to you.."

"Kutti.." His Anna's voice dragged his brain back from sleepy caverns .

"Morning Anna" Kong mumbled .

"Morning Kutti... be ready in 30 minutes...I will pick you up"

"Sleepy, Anna " Kong whined .

"I know , with all the storm, rain and lightening thunders last night, you wouldn't be able to sleep properly...You can sleep in the car and then back at home." 

" No ..I slept properly Anna..."

"How? Temperature dropped like crazy last night..."

"Arthit kept me warm-" Arthit clamped his palm over Kongpob's mouth before his sleepy husband would sign their doom.

" What ?" Varun yelled . 

"Arthit Rojanapat- " Varun thundered, but Arthit cleverly cut him off -

"I arranged a room heater for Kongpob...and hot water bottles for him to warm up his feet when electricity faltered . Or did you want me to leave my omega shivering?"

"I did not say that-" Varun said. " But if I come to know..you have been up to anything-"

" If you mean being kicked down the bed by Kong..indeed ...four times in total " Arthit said. " So if you have to be worried for anything ...its my limbs"

" Good... your insurance will cover that " Varun retorted " Now...give the phone back to Kong "

"How about an hour, Kutti?" Varun asked softly...secretly pleased over Arthit's caring nature. 

"It must be cold outside na Anna..."

"Its 8 in the morning Kutti, two hours past the sunrise...its not so cold..." Varun reasoned.

"open the window, please .." Kongpob requested Arthit, who immediately carried out the request, a chilled gust of wind rushed in the room...Kong shivered ,pulling blanket over his face and Kong whined to his anna " its still too cold outside na Anna....Arthit will drop me na...please"

"Okay ...sleep now...let me talk to Arthit.."

" Yes, Anna. " Arthit took the call while Kong closed his eyes again, making small circles with his fingers on Arthit's arm.

"Take care of him " Varun sounded so helpless " Feed him something warm. He gets sick if he gets caught in rain."

"I will Anna..Don't worry" Arthit assured " Our Kutti is safe and warm.... we will be there soon."

"No hurries..." Varun said "let him get a good sleep and..." Varun paused, next words he wanted to speak stuck in his throat like fish bone.

"Consider me your younger brother. Is there anything I can help with, Anna..."

"Nothing...its just..." Varun finally blurted " Thank you "

" Pardon...I didn't catch it...what did you say?" Arthit teased. 

"I..." Varun faked nonchalance " Nothing...there must still be disturbances in communication line due to the storm last night...You are hearing things..be here soon" Varun warned " Don't forget you are not married yet. "

"Don't be so sure about that.." Arthit retorted. 

" Pudungo (get lost) " Varun scolded plyfully " You better not be married if you know what is good for you..." 

Arthit chuckled " There's a temple on the way Anna..."

" I am coming there right now..."

"I was joking Anna..." Arthit hung up the phone laughing.

 " Still sleepy, Kutti?" Arthit asked to Kongpob. 

Kongpob, still half-asleep, instinctively snuggled closer, seeking the comfort of Arthit's warmth, he snuck his leg between Arthit's. His thigh touched Arthit's pant clad leg and his awareness sharpened, he became acutely aware of the state of his undress—his naked body pressed against Arthit's fully clothed form. A wave of embarrassment washed over him, goosebumps of horror bloomes over all of his body and he froze, unsure of how to navigate the situation. Kong distanced himself as far as he could without getting out of the blanket.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Arthit asked, his tone soothing.

" Nothing..."  Kongpob hesitated, biting his lower lip. "I... I'm just... i should get dressed...it's strange," he finally admitted, his voice barely a whisper. "I'm not ....clothes...I need my clothes ...." remembering his clothes getting soiled in rain, he stared helplessly at Arthit, clutching the blanket around his neck to cover himaelf..

Understanding dawned on Arthit, and he reached out to gently cup Kongpob's cheek, guiding his gaze back to his own. "There's nothing to be embarrassed about," he reassured but Kong wasn't much responsive to him. 

Arthit could physically feel Kong closing up, running far away . 

 " My love..." Arthit placed a hand over the blanket 

"har ek saaz ko sāzindagāñ nahīñ darkār 

badan ko zarbat-e-mizrāb se ilāqa nahīñ "

(Translation: "Not every instrument needs a musician,

The body doesn't require the strike of the plectrum (to resonate)."

Meaning:  not every beautiful creation (like a musical instrument) requires an external force (like a musician) to create harmony or music. Similarly, the body does not always need physical interaction or stimulation to resonate or connect.  Meaning  that true connection or beauty lies within and doesn't always require external validation or physical acts. )

Kongpob looked at him confused, unable to understand what Arthit just said. 

 "  Relationships doesn't rely on physical intimacy alone;  emotional and spiritual connection is what truly matters and resonates between two person in relationship." Arthit explained " What is a body , but a cloth for the soul. What is there to be embarrased about our skin, my love?" Arthit asked " You have given me the right" Arthit showed him the ring on his finger " Or have you changed your mind? If you have...I will stand outside till you get descent and comfortable enough ."

Kong shook his head, taking it as rejection, Arthit pulled the blanket off of himself and slid a leg down the bed to get up. 

"No.." Kong slid close and grabbed his wrist.

"While I enjoy you getting all shy and flushed Kanna, I feel physically pained when you got embarrased and awkward. This is not an emotion we should foster in our relationship. "

"I...not habitual...first time " Kong explained. 

Arthit grinned " There are so many firsts remaining my love, and me being clothed can be remedied..." He unbuttoned his pants without getting up and placed it on the bedside table.

 " Okay, now ?"

"Still clothed more than me "

"Let's maintain that boundary until we marry na...for the sake of your brother's mind..." Arthit grinned , climbing down the bed. " Let me get you something to wear..."

Kongpob admired Arthit's rippling muscles and firm boxer clad buttocks as his husband squatted and rummaged through his suitcase, finding a boxer for Kongpob. 

"Here..." Arthit gave him a boxer short just to make him a little bit more comfortable.

Kong slid on the shorts while remaining under the blanket. Even after being evenly clothed as Arthit, Kong remained under blanket while Arthit confidently falunted his body to KOngpob's eyes.

Kongpob's initial embarrassment began to melt away, replaced by a quiet comfort. He snatched Arthit's discarded shirt from bedside table and let his cover fall till his waist to slip the cloth on.

He looked into Arthit's eyes, noticing how they never strayed from his own, always focused, always respectful, never wavering below his eye level until he buttoned till neck.

The thought brought a soft smile to his lips."You're really... respectful, you know?" Kongpob finally said, his voice filled with admiration. "If I were in your place, I'd probably have sneaked a glance or two... or more." Kong and cheekily.

Arthit chuckled softly, his thumb brushing against Kongpob's cheek. "The one you have full right over, you don't need to sneak a peek at," he replied, his words carrying a deeper meaning that made Kongpob's heart flutter in that quiet moment. " I am content in the truth that you are mine. Exploring the skin can wait...I want your mind first, your soil and I know the body Will follow... For me there is no joy in stealing glances. I want whole of bare to my eyes,   whole of you desiring my gaze not avoiding it."

 With the world waking up outside and the warmth of the early morning sun surrounding them, Kongpob felt a profound sense of security and belonging. His earlier awkwardness faded completely, replaced by a deep appreciation for the man beside him.

.....................................................

Arthit pulled the car into the driveway of Varun's home, the soft purr of the engine dying down as he turned off the ignition. The morning was just transitioning to noon.  Kongpob sat beside him, still dressed in Arthit's clothes from the night before—a slightly oversized shirt and pants that clung awkwardly to his slender frame. As they stepped out of the car, Arthit couldn't hide the grin that spread across his face, a mixture of pride and happiness bubbling up inside him. He had already arranged for someone to drive Kongpob's bike back to Varun's home, a task that had been taken care of with ease. 

Now, as they approached the front door, he felt an undeniable sense of satisfaction in bringing Kongpob home safely. The door swung open, revealing Varun standing there, one brow arched in curiosity as he took in the sight before him. Varun's eyes flicked from Kongpob, who was clearly dressed in someone else's clothes, to Arthit, whose grin was as wide as ever. 

"Morning, Anna," Arthit greeted cheerfully, his tone light and unbothered by the silent question in Varun's gaze.

Varun crossed his arms, his brow still raised. "Morning. ", he turned to Kongpob " Did you not carry extra pair of clothes last night, Kutti?"

" I did Anna... but I was too cold to bring it back from my bike so I borrowed his" Kong explained.

Before Varun could say anything further, Arthit held up his hand, the subtle glint of the ring catching the light. " I will make sure to carry something in his size next time Anna."

Varun narrowed his eyes at the alpha, he knew the words were just excuse, Arthit was actually flaunting his ring.

"And you gave him your ring as payment for these ill fitting clothes Kutti?" Varun smirked, clearly deflating Arthit's peacock pride.

" Its not a payment " Arthit pouted, Kong wanted to giggle. " After we cleared our misunderstanding, Kongpob couldn't wait so he gave this ring to me," Arthit innocently flaunted the ring again and beamed at VArun " we got engaged last night."

" Congratulations! " Maya greeted, genuinely happy while Varun made a face like someone sneaked him a bite of raw bittergourd.

'Take that Varun Anna! ' Arthit smirked in his mind.

Kongpob, his cheeks turning a faint shade of pink, quickly chimed in. "No..No Anni...We are not engaged, I just wanted to assure Arthit that I won't back down from this match, Anna. "

Varun's eyes softened, though a hint of amusement lingered in his expression. "Its well and good that both of you got to a common ground. Let's turn this half engagement to complete. " Varun invited them in, advising them to sit down on sofa. "I think it's time both of you make our worries rest and  make this official. Why don't we let the families know?"Kongpob hesitated, glancing at Arthit, who nodded in encouragement. 

Varun, already one step ahead, pulled out his phone and set up a conference call with both families. 

The screen flickered as the call connected, and soon the faces of their parents appeared, their expressions curious and expectant.

Varun took charge, his voice steady as he spoke. "We're all here, and I think it's time to clear the air. Arthit, Kongpob—do you both approve of this match and are you ready for the engagement?"Without missing a beat, Arthit responded with an enthusiastic, "Yes."

Kongpob, still a bit shy, nodded his head, his eyes downcast.

But Arhan, who had been watching closely, wasn't about to let him off that easily. "In words, please," Arhan teased, his tone playful. "I can't bear the dragon breathing down my neck again in case you change your mind. Give me your word, bro in law."

" Yeah.." Kongpob's father agrred. " In words please, Kongpob.

Kongpob looked at his father in surprise who just grinned at him shrugging. Everyone Was enjoying his misery. This was not fair. He felt a hand wrap around his shoulder, when he looked at the owner of hand, Varun smiled at him encouragingly " Give your word Kutti..."

Kongpob took a deep breath, lifting his gaze to the screen. "Yes," he said softly but firmly, " I agree "

" To do what? Bro-in-law? " Arhan asked " for all I know you are agreeing to participate in ckean India programme. Be clear please...my life is at stake here..."

" I agree to be married to Arthit Roajanapat " his voice carrying the weight of his decision.

Arhan let out an exaggerated sigh, throwing his hands up dramatically. "Well, that's it then! You can't take this back now. Dragon is yours... I will gift you a leash for your wedding"A light chuckle rippled through the group.

" Not fair... " Arthit chimed in.." He is saying as if someone is keeping knife at his throat and asking him to marry me..."

" Well...you only said, I agree " Varun retorted " For all I know, you may have agreed that you are wearing a wig and are secretly bald. "

Both Arhan and Arthit's mother giggled at Varun's jab .

" I should lead by example..." Arthit said " I am dying to get married to you Kongpob..." Arthit looked at Kongpob " Your turn."

" I will marry you —  ghost or man. I prefer the man though " Kong retorted. And Arthit chuckled fondly.

" Bro-in-law , what an answer...without being corny...I want to kiss your mind..."

" And I want to knock your teeth.." Arthit sighed dramatically " alas! Every wish is not fulfilled..."

" It's Well and good that both of you agree to this match ....but I don't. " Arthit's father's voice rang out, silencing the giggles and laughter.

" Neither do I..." Kongpob's father matched his friend's tone.

"I have a condition," Arthit's  father said, causing everyone to pause, the atmosphere growing tense.

Kongpob's heart skipped a beat, but before he could worry, Arthit's father continued, his tone turning warm and teasing. "I can't approve this match unless my condition is met."

"What is it?" Kongpob asked, his voice tentative.

"I've heard so much about your cooking, Kongpob," Arthit's father replied with a smile. " all Arthit talked since the day you cooked for him, is your food. Is it fair that only he gets to eat it? I need you to bribe me with a meal cooked by you. I've been saving space in my stomach ever since Arthit started singing your praises."

Relief washed over Kongpob, and he couldn't help but smile. "Of course uncle,  I'll cook for you," he agreed, his voice filled with sincerity.

Laughter erupted from both sides of the call, the tension melting away as the conversation turned lighthearted once more.

" My approval is still remaining. " Kongpob's father took his turn. " It is not fair that only Kongpob got to hear Arthit's voice. Dino ( Arthit's father's nickname) told me, Arthit had been in a band. Is it fair that only Kongpob gets front row seat to free concern? "

Arthit started singing an impromptu song he just penned in his mind
"
To your son, I give my heart,
In your eyes, I'll play my part,
With gentle care and love so true,
I promise, sir, I'll see him through.

Through highs and lows, we'll stand as one,
Under the moon, under the sun,
With every breath, with every day,
I'll cherish him in every way.

So let this bond be tied with grace,
In your family, I find my place,
With honor and love, I ask today,
For your blessing, as we find our way "

" You have all my blessing , Thit " Kongpob's father teared up " let's set the nearest date to get them married as my son already slid his ring on Arthit's finger."

" I..." Kongpob didn't know what to say.. he got all red and shy. Varun kept his arm around his brother's shoulder.

" They are not engaged. " He provided on behalf of his brother.

" My ring says otherwise " Arthit grinned at him , wiggling his finger. Varun narrowed his eyes and Arthit stood straight. " I mean..not formally engaged."

" But you have the ring though..." Varun teased back, smirking.

" Karma is a babe bro.." Arhan bitched to his brother and turned to Varun " You are awesome Anna."

..............

The families began to discuss the upcoming ceremony, deciding to hold the groom-viewing event in four days.

As the call ended, Varun looked at the two of them, his usual stern demeanor softened by a rare smile. "Looks like everything's set," he said, clapping a hand on Arthit's shoulder. "Welcome to the family, Arthit."

Arthit's grin widened even further, if that were possible, and he hugged Varun " Thank you, Anna. It wouldn't have been possible without you.

" Just Keep my Kutti happy..." Varun patted his back.

................

Maya again insisted Kong walk Arthit till gate. As they passed through the tickets, Arthit quickly hugged Kong.

"I've been ready for this," he said softly, his eyes meeting Kongpob's " Can't wait for the wedding day "

Kongpob leaned into Arthit's embrace, the warmth of his body grounding him. "Me too," he whispered back, a shy smile playing on his lips as he felt the reassuring weight of Arthit's arm around him. They stood there, basking in the moment, knowing that their journey together was just beginning.

When Varun cleared his throat, Arthit knew he must leave but Kong had his hand in death grip. He wasn't saying so much in words but he was not ready for the loneliness that will descend the moment Arthit will disappear from his vision.

" I promise you Kutti, you will never have to leave my hand after Kalyanam (marriage) , neither will I."

"Promise?"

Arthit smiled " Pinky promise..."

....................................................

A/N : I have few more scenes ready...until their engagement. But this felt the natural ending for this chapter.