A/n: Ready for another story based in India? I know you are... As a gift for all the pain I gave you... To let you know how SORRY I am 🥺

I know you all love me... 🥺 Still

Love,
Bamboo_shoot. 🥺🥺🥺 Muaahh

Also kindly read warnings before reading my omega stories... Warnings from Stand by me and Two Worlds... I don't want any discomfort, when i have warned hundreds of times...

Thanks again.
___________________________________________

Kerkklai watched with a fond smile, as the scent of incense filled his home... He stood outside the open mandir of their home with joined hands. their huge wooden singhasan with all the deities now decorated with flowers and offerings of sweets. And his child sitting on the floor, ringing the small brass bell and circling the lamp and incense put on a plate around the deities.

His long hairs are damp and covering the back of the black woolen kurti he was wearing. His pretty lips moving softly with chants as he lowered his head to the floor and finished his prayers... Slowly sitting straight again.

Kong came to his feet and looked over with a smile, holding a plate with flowers, incense sticks and a brass pitcher filled with water...

"Good morning papa." Kong smiled, kissing Kerkklai's cheek.

"Good morning... Breakfast is ready..." Kerkklai caressed his beautiful omega child's head.

Kong nodded. "Bas abhi aai..."

Kerkklai nodded as he watched Kong going up towards their terrace. And he can only smile.

They shifted here around eighteen months back. Kerkklai is a bank manager and he gets transferred a lot... Though Kong knows, that his father fell in love with Shimla... And this is where they will settle... And Kong didn't know that finally, he'd want his father to settle down somewhere as well. As he ascended the stairs faster than necessary.

The day they came here.. it was Holi... Kong loves this time... But they were also new to this society... So he was weary of all the strangers that were playing around with colours... Especially the young crowd of boisterous and loud alphas and betas...

And he almost screamed in surprise and fear when a very drunk alpha came his way with a smile and fistful of red colour... And before they could do what they intended... Kong watched as the alpha got pushed to the ground. Just in time Kerkklai pulled him behind himself. And Kong peeked over his father's shoulder.

"Get back... They are new here..." Kong heard a deep voice, growling at the alpha.

And he looked ahead. Only for his heart to skip on beats... Looking at the man standing in front of them. In a drenched, coloured white shirt tucked inside a washed jeans. Three buttons down, showing the pale, hard chest now smudged with every colour... The man was looking down sideways at the other person he pushed. His brunette hair shining under the sun and flowing with the breeze... Face so sharp and precise... So handsome... That Kong never saw someone like that.

Even though the face had colours of every shade... It wasn't hard to notice the handsome features.

"Aap thik hai?" The man finally faced them and Kong blushed shuddering when the man turned fully towards them. "I am sorry... But we were just having fun..."

Kong watched as the man smiled and he shuddered with a hitching breath looking at the dimple that dabbed in one corner of the lips. As the man addressed his father... Kong can sense that the man was drunk himself... But yet...

He didn't seem scary...

Kerkklai relaxed... He has always been easy going and not overtly stuck up... He understands and tries to move with the young generation accordingly.

"Thik hai beta... Thank you..." Kerkklai smiled.

"No problem..." The man gestured with the same smile. Stuffing his hands in his pockets and stepping away. Letting Kerkklai pass.

Kerkklai nodded, giving a glance behind. "Aaja Guddu..."

That seemed to have caught the man's attention. As he finally notice the pair of charcoal eyes looking at him from over Kerkklai's shoulder. And Kong felt his heart skipping on beats, as Kerkklai walked aside exposing his hidden form and their eyes met. Kong has never seen such beautiful pair of deep eyes before. Shining like a gem under the sunshine.

Kong remembered blushing as the smile on the man's face seemed to slowly faltering.... And he tilted his head with an unfathomable expression as Kong came to view. Eyes scanned each inch of Kong's body till toes then all the way back. Looking at Kong again....

Lips slowly parting in aww and eyes... Kong can see those eyes freezing.... The man didn't blink... And he seemed to have stopped somehow...

It was a scary expression... It was scary in every way... But yet... Deep, deep down Kong recalls having butterflies. As he dropped his gaze with a blush

Kong had walked away the next moment with struggled breaths. Walking past the man, who remained standing there frozen for a while.

Alpha... Kong can feel the aura and the essence of deep woods. The strong presence didn't hide the fact that the man was truly an alpha... And Kong's spirit trembled a little, feeling itself cowering with the domineering presence... So he rushed faster inside the open gates of his new home... His long, hip length wavy hair and his flowing dupatta living back his dewy, fresh morning essence...

He didn't know that the man kept looking at his form as he walked away... That he was drunk but not intoxicated... And that the man didn't know intoxication before looking at the charcoal eyes... Or smelling the soft essense... And looking at the beauty that punched a sword through his heart the very first time their eyes met...

Kong's first impression was that the man is not to be taken casually... He is ought to be a troublemaker... And he was right... As time went by and he came to know that the man lives two lanes down and is the youth president of the ruling political party. He is not to be messed with and he has a reputation around. People are scared of him... And they adore him at the same time... He has done a lot... And even though he is a walking, talking menace... He helps without second thought.

Kong isn't stalking... But that man's father has a bank account in Kerkklai's branch... And he is a retired colonel of the Army... Sometimes for legal documentation... When he can't go... Kerkklai helps him out by taking them to their home out of respect... Or sometimes the man or his son comes to Kong's house...

Arthit Rojnapat... It was his name... And he never stayed more than necessary in his home... Always business and he is very respectful and polite while addressing... Kerkklai was impressed with the young man... Kong has served them enough snacks... And though in his heart Kong knows that Arthit eyes him whenever he comes... He never approached inappropriately.

Or even behave like an uncultured hooligan in front of anyone. Never boasted ot acted out of convenience. His presence always so strong that he didn't need to... He didn't have to... People were drawn to him anyways.

And Kong came to know more when his father Phukao would visit sometime. Arthit has completed his MBA... Was working in the US... But listening to someone tell him what to do for money wasn't his cup of tea. So he came back within 8 months... Set a tourism firm here and started setting his foot in real estate... He is settled in life and always remains busy.

That was the first encounter... First impression... First correction of Kong mistaking Arthit to be an aimless person... A bully ... And suddenly that man was everywhere...

Kong didn't do it on purpose... Nor did he want to... But suddenly Arthit was everywhere... Even that moment as Kong held the pitcher up and slowly poured down the water from it towards the sun risen over the mountain, chanting incantation... He knows... That Arthit is there... When he walked in circle around the earthen platform with the tulsi plant and poured water in the roots and offered flowers... He knows Arthit is there without looking.

And Kong was right when he looked down the terrace. Out of their property gates... And Arthit was there on the opposite side of the road outside their gates... Leaning his hips against his Royal Enfield, smoking... Wearing a washed jeans with heavy boots and grey sweatshirt, with a black jacket over... The hood of the sweatshirt pulled over his head. Kong had a liking for his subtle but bold fashion sense.

The first time Kong found him waiting... It was few days after they settled here and Kong has joined college. And Arthit was out there with his friends. Kong was shocked and did have an impression that Arthit has the habit of checking girls or omegas... But no... He never looked at anyone... Didn't even pay them any heed... And he just waits outside Kong's house... Sometimes alone... Sometimes with his friends... That too in the morning... When it's time for Kong's college...

Kong wanted to believe that it was just a coincidence... Because if he didn't... He will start believing the fact that Arthit waits everyday there for him... The thought scared him... Because it did strange things to his heart... And Kong didn't know if he could take it...

Just like the first day he walked past Arthit while going to college and felt Arthit's stare on himself... While his friends talked... Kong has kept his gaze down... Hairs were open that day, because he washed it and he never uses blow dryers... And he noticed Arthit eyeing his long hair...

Kong recalled one of the other men noticing him... And saying something which he didn't hear... But he knows that man was talking about Kong... His eyes were fixed Kong's way... Kong felt disheartened... Because this won't be the first time that someone looked at him the wrong way or passed an inappropriate comment after he came here.

It ruins Kong's mood because he couldn't walk freely around his own neighborhood. And he can't ask his father to accompany him because it'll make him late... And his mother just recovered from appendix surgery... So travelling was a no no... They had too much trouble as it is while settling here.

But next moment was a shock for Kong... He halted on his step when he watched in slow motion. Arthit grabbing the man by his collar and Kong jolted, covering his mouth when he punched that man right across the face. And made sure he fell on the ground. Arthit said something to the man breathing heavily and glaring, while the others were clearly scared to approach Arthit. Then their eyes met...

Kong recalls having butterflies and tears at the same time when their eyes collided. He was frozen at the distance where he was. Scared... And confused on what to do next... While Arthit just stared at him... There was something in those eyes... That Kong saw even from the distance.... Something unapproachable and safe at the same time.

He watched Arthit mumbling something, never looking away from Kong and the man that was punched was taken away. Kong recalls dropping his gaze, as he suddenly found themselves alone in the whole lane.

Kong was terrified... But also overwhelmed... And he realised he did not hate it when Arthit looked at him with those eyes... And that was the first time Kong felt his heart skipping on beats... And his spirit shying just like he was. The first time Kong saw why Arthit holds a bad reputation...

There was a lot of space from where Kong could pass, even a truck could pass... Arthit was just standing sideways... But yet there was some form of invisible barrier... From where he stood and the main road that he needs to reach to catch the bus.

Kong felt himself slump and look ahead with soft eyes, when Arthit stepped back, standing sideways... Going back to leaning against his bike. Looking blankly ahead. Kong gulped a lump and walked past with dropped eyes... Feeling restless with the thought that Arthit might say something when he finally crossed where Arthit was standing... He did feel Arthit look at him over his lashes... But he didn't say anything... And Kong felt himself light after he was finally over the main road...

Though he jolted when he heard the bike engine reverberate just behind... But he never looked back... Not even when he boarded the bus...

And that was the first time and last time any man, any boy even dared to raise their eyes when Kong would walk past them.

The first time Kong felt himself feeling something alien... And he sorted it out thinking it's thankfulness...

The first time... Kong found Arthit ride his bike along the bus until he reached college. While he stealthily rubbed away tears, not daring to look out of the window on his side.

The first times of every new beginning...

"Guddu aaja beta... Nashta lag gaya..." Luna's disembodied call jolted Kong back to his senses.

And he realised their eyes were fixed on each other even from the distance... Kong's heart was leaping... And Arthit had that blank unfathomable expression on his face. Which sent shudders down Kong's spine even from the distance.

"Aai mumma..." Kong replied back.. voice still soft. As he kept unconsciously blushing and their eyes never moved.

It's been almost two years... But Kong doesn't know what to make of it all... Because in all these time... They never even exchanged a single word... But yet... Kong somehow knows what Arthit wanted or felt... And he knows in his heart that Arthit felt the same.

Like at that moment Kong knows Arthit is waiting for him to come out and go to college and he made sure Kong reached safely... He never missed a day in all these time... And even if he did... Kong found Arthit's closest friend guarding him instead. Dishant Singh is the one Kong saw Arthit never fought with... So he knows they are close.

And strangely, Kong didn't tell it to anyone... Not even his parents. He didn't feel any need to... He Just naturally accepted it.

Thankfulness? Really? Kong didn't know anymore... Kong didn't anything about what Arthit wanted... Or maybe he did... He just didn't know where it will end...

Sometimes... Once in a blue moon when Dishant would be his companion he would talk... He isn't silent or observing like Arthit... And Kong is naturally a shy person... Though Dishant was always friendly and a good presence. So Kong might have known about Arthit from Dishant as well... He never asked for... He just knew...

Like Arthit used to open his office by sharp 9 am everyday... Nothing made him fail... But now one of his workers does it for him. Dishant didn't imply it was because of him... But Kong recalls blushing. And he also knew other details without asking from Dishant... Like Arthit never accepted anyone's proposal... And he got many... Never did he bend for anyone... Nothing melted him...

That he liked long hair and Indian attire... The sound of anklets and clinking of bangles... Fresh flowers and nature... Strange how every detail somehow blends well with Kong...

Kong didn't know if Dishant tried making him feel special or pressured but he listened to every detail keenly. And even replied Dishant about everything he asked about Kong... Without hesitation... Like he wasn't just giving his every possible detail to a supposed henchman. But he did...

Because deep down... He wanted to...

Kong came to his senses, feeling another tear rolling down his eyes... Because he wanted an end to it all... He just didn't know where he will find it.

Because sometimes when they reach their destination and it is time for them to come down the bus... Dishant would request one thing.

"Us janwar ko mat batana ki aapse baat karta hu... Mujhe noch khaayega..." Dishant was laughing lightly. As he followed Kong down the bus.

Kong will just get restless with those words and blush... He won't reply Dishant... He won't have any reply. He didn't know what to make of it all. Maybe he does... But he is too shy to approach and Arthit is always too silent...

Kong rubbed away his tears, looking away from Arthit and going downstairs. He kept the things for puja back inside the mandir blowed off the lamp and smiled at his mother. Taking a seat around the table...

"Alloo paratha..." Kong gasped, grinning at his mother. Then pouted at her. "Mumma I need to control my diet. Moti ho gayi hu..."

"So what..." Kerkklai refused. "You are still the most beautiful child in the world..."

Kong blushed with a smile, as his mother packed his lunchbox. "I put extra... And aam ka achar bhi dal Diya hai..."

Kong stiffened, stopping himself from chewing... But then cleared his throat and nodded, without looking at his mother, ignoring her stare on his sideface. He did ask her to put extra... After only a month of joining college. And especially aam ka achar that he makes himself.

Why? Well...

"Kong..." Kerkklai's voice caught Kong's attention and he looked at his father.

"Yes papa..."

"You okay? You look red..."

Kong chewed slowly, dropping his gaze. Feeling his heart skipping on beats. "Nothing papa."

"Are you sure?" Kerkklai tilted his head.

Kong smiled assuringly. Going back to finishing his food as fast as he could. He is late...

Luna just stared at her child. Shaking her head, going inside the kitchen with a smile. "Malti come on..."

Malti is their domestic helper and a CCTV camera... She has the habit of spreading information around... And Kong knows she has hawk like eyes. Thankfully only rumours were spread around... Kong didn't give her any specific service... And for some reason Malti never spoke ill about Kong... He knows it... Malti simply adores him... And Kong is genuinely always kind to others.

Thankfully Kong never even looked Arthit's way when they'd be in public... Neither did Arthit shared a single conversation with him. To get himself be a topic of discussion.

"I hope he is doing fine..." Luna whispered in the kitchen.

"Chinta mat karo didi... Uska bodyguard bahar hi khada hai..." Malti giggled.

Luna's eyes went wide as she peeked out through the kitchen window. And from the heavy coverage of trees she did see the hazy form of the bike... When Malti first gossiped indirectly about Arthit... Luna was weary. But as time went by... She felt comfortable... Especially seeing her own child so shy and edgy all the time. Kong would have voiced it if he needed help... Kong never hides...

"He came?" Luna whispered.

"He always does..."

"I hope I see some progress..." Luna smiled. "And don't dare gossiping about them anywhere Malti... I know your habit..." Luna glared over her shoulder.

Malti smiled sheepishly... "Guddu is my sweetheart... How can I?"

Luna smiled, gesturing towards the counter. "Chop those vegetables."

Malti nodded going ahead to get her work complete. She isn't crazy to go gossiping about Kong... She knows the consequences...

One day when she was giving hints to Arthit's mother... Being their household helper as well... She expected some kind of reaction from Layna... It was already six months since the Suthilluks came there. But to her surprise. Layna smiled.

"Kong seems like a good child... And lets not get to conclusions before being sure about this."

Malti had nodded. "He is... He knows all the household work... Cooking and he is very polite... He can be a helping hand to you... Aur mujhe pata hai aap use mutthi me rakh sakoge..."

But before Layna could answer...

"And what makes you think he is worth being a household helper and puppet?"

Malti jolted hearing the deep voice behind. She gulped a lump and looked over. Arthit seemed to have just woken up, still in his jogger and full sleeves. And he looked furious.

"Arey bhaiya... Aap uth gaye? Nashta laga du?"

"Answer me..."

Malti gulped a lump, meeting the hollow eyes. "I was just saying... Just..."

"No..." Arthit hissed, taking a step towards Malti. Who instantly stiffened with Arthit's aura. "No you were gaslighting, manipulating things because he is quiet and calm... You were making it seem that innocent people should be used..."

Malti knows things can go wrong... She wanted to cry... Why can't she just keep her mouth shut...

"No..." Malti whispered. Her voice shaking. "I... I just..."

"If you ever... Ever try harming his reputation... Gossiping or gaslighting his image..." Arthit uttered with ragged breathes, furious beyond repair. His eyes boring holes into Malti's soul. "I will ruin your life..."

Malti's eyes widened as she gasped for breaths. Knowing that wasn't just empty threat. Arthit CAN easily ruin her life. But then Arthit glared at his mother.

"You are supporting this? Seriously mom?" Arthit looked disappointed. "I expected better of you..."

Layna sighed. "you know I wasn't..."

"Yeah you should not..." Arthit gritted his teeth. "And if you got the image of making him a puppet even with mistake... Change it... He isn't... AND I RATHER NOT HEAR ANY ILL ALLEGATIONS ABOUT HIM IN THIS HOUSE..."

Layna and Malti jolted. Arthit then glared at Malti, clenching his fists.

"Or anywhere..."

Layna gulped a lump and stepped closer to her alpha son. Putting a gentle hand over his shoulder. She didn't know how she should feel about her dear son defending a person he just admires and going against his mom. It didn't feel good... But Kong is indeed a good child. And looking at her son she knows... Nothing can be done... Arthit is stubborn to the bones.

"We won't..." Layna assured, carefully pushing Arthit out of the kitchen. Who was flaring his nostrils like a bull ready to charge. Glowering at Malti with bared teeth. "No one will... Go on..."

And he finally did, though glaring... Malti still shudders with the memories... She didn't dare to go against Arthit again... She has much other topics to gossip about. She let Kong's reputation be. people like knowing about what is going on with others... It makes them happy to know about their miseries... And gives them chance to taunt them... Because they know their own life is a mess. And Malti used that to be favoured.

But some people are not to be messed with... Especially a beautiful, long haired maiden...

Kong looked at himself in the mirror... He was in a black full sleeved kashmiri salwar suit. She put on small oxidised dangling earrings and watermelon shaded light lip gloss. He has the liberty of having glowy glass like moisturised skin in this weather... After he put all that extra roundness on his cheeks. His dusky skin now few shades lifhter and he even flushes mauve in sunshine. When he doesn't sweat like a frog. He put on a small bindi. He doesn't put too much make up... Not to college...

Kong brushed his long hairs, which were reaching his hips now... He knows he should trim it a bit... But he couldn't. He didn't keep them open but used a thick scrunchie to tie it in a ponytail, brushing the ends again to make sure the rolls in the ends of his ponytail looked bouncy. He really wanted to keep his hair open... But his seniors even some of his batchmates taunted him calling him a pretty face...

They'd always laugh it off like it's a joke but Kong can hear the taunts. Especially if he is found being approached by senior alphas or betas... And the fact that he got many proposals but rejected them got him the tag... High maintanence... But they didn't know it hurt Kong... Him not wanting to accept their proposal is his choice.... He did not want to... He didn't have any reason to...

He never felt lonely or in the need of love to accept those proposals... So why should he? He ignored those thoughts and brushed his ends again. Not wanting to look out of the window either.

After coming here... There was a puja in one of their neighbours house... And he went there with his parents after coming back from coaching... He wore his mother's peach silk saree and kept his hairs open. Only for his heart to skip on beats when he entered their garden where the feast was arranged.

There he was in a jeans and teal kurta... Sleeves folded till elbows and a silver watch... Hairs parted from the side, emphasizing his handsome, sharp features... Smiling with his perfect bow shaped full lips, that dabbed his dimple... He looks so handsome that it was almost intimidating...

But then their eyes met and Kong blushed, realising Arthit's smile was faltering like always... It was breezy that day... And Kong's hairs kept flowing across his body and he had to keep tucking on his locks behind his ears. And the more his hairs flowed along the open ends of his saree... The more Arthit's eyes kept getting narrower...

It was an intimidating look... But something assured Kong that he was being appreciated... Because Arthit didn't blink or wasn't paying attention to anything, even the people talking to him... So occupied that when he took the juice to his lips again... He turned the glass without actually realising if it touched his lips or not. Spilling the whole content on the ground and himself...

That made Kong drop his gaze... Biting the insides of his lips hard to not start smiling... As he stealthily hid behind his mother...

Arthit tilted sideways to keep looking at him... Unaware of the hands that were wiping his kurta... Or helping him with tissues... He just kept looking for Kong... And Kong felt it... Making him smile more...

Later when they were standing in a row for getting their dinner from the buffet... Kong was jittery because Arthit was right behind... And he didn't know how he ended up in that situation... Disliking the fact that his hairs flew constantly. And worried that it might disturb the person behind.

"Guddu dekh... Aloo puri... Teri favourite..." Luna giggled over her shoulder.

Kong pouted, frowning at his mother for embarrassing him. And also disclosing that nickname... She just smiled looking over Kong's shoulder and her eyes glittered.

"Hello beta... How are you?"

Kong gnawed his lips, he didn't have to look who Luna was talking to. His parents were in talking terms with Arthit and his parents by then... They didn't stay far from Kong's home anyways. Kong concentrated on the sweets being served on his plate instead. Without looking over.

"Hello aunty... I am doing great... How are you?"

Kong shivered with the deep voice so close... And his knees almost buckled... But he didn't dare look over..

"Great... Tell your parents to visit sometimes..."

"Ofcourse..."

Kong was thankful he didn't have to exchange words... He knows he'd end up embarassing himself more than he already was. Thankfully his mother was done taking her food as she walked ahead to gossip with the aunties and Kong stood there to take his share... When he was served with two aloo puri and a white ceramic bowl full of chole. He wanted more... But can't embarass himself... So he was about to walk ahead.

"Inhe aur paroso..." Kong stiffened hearing the deep voice. Commanding the waiter.

Kong saw how the young man's eyes widened and he immediately served Kong two more and another bowl of chole. Even gave a small bow... Kong didn't know how to feel about it... But he did feel special... And he didn't want to seem like a rude mannerless person...

"Thank you..." Kong had whispered over his shoulder. Walking ahead, not having the guts in him to face the man.

But he did hear it. "You are welcome..." Soft like the breeze... But he heard it... And he has blushed hundreds of shades... Walking away.

That was their first and last interaction... Verbally... But Kong knew Arthit liked his long hair. Though he can't keep them open all the time. And not be a subject of taunts... Sometimes he just wanted to take all those taunts... To see the change of colours in those eyes...

He didn't know why... He did not know anything anymore...

Kong has made some friends from around the colony... They go to the same college. From different streams... But they meet up near Kong's house and they go together. Although Kong comes much later for his coaching classes. And he got no teacher for his subjects closeby... So he had to take it close to the college... Which is almost forty minutes away.

He is persuing his forth semester with major in English... And he was wrong when they said it'll be easy... Try reading history of English literature once... Kong recalls crying a few times...

"Hi..." He smiled at Richa and Mayur. Mayur is a beautiful omega with short hairs and a cute mousy face. He is adorable. Wearing a peach skirt and short white turtleneck sweater that day with boots. While Richa was in a jeans and crop top with demim jacket. Her shoulder length hair tied in a ponytail.

Their fashion sense is awesome... Kong wears western outfits as well but wasn't confident enough to wear them in college. And they were immune to Shimla weather... While Kong is still making habit of it. It's almost end of September... So it has started to get chilly here...

Mayur wrapped his arms around Kong's neck. Being of same height. "Hey bestie..."

Kong smiled holding Mayur's arms that were around his neck. They were in the same year and Mayur was taking Kong's major. He has somehow attached himself with Kong and Kong adored him as well. He is genuinely a great person.

"Hey..."

Richa rolled her eyes, she was a semester senior and she came in between them. Being taller and wrapping her arms around both Kong's and Mayur's neck. They started walking towards the main road, now seperately... And Kong's heart kept skipping on beats and his eyes kept dropping. As he went quite even though the other two were chatting.

"Oh he is here again..." Richa suddenly squealed in a soft voice.

And Kong concentrated on his shoes. Not realising that Mayur was taking peeks of him.

"I am telling you, he waits for me here everyday..." Richa after finding Arthit waiting there... Started having the impression that Arthit waits for her. And no one corrected her... "I hope he just proposed... It's been too long..."

Kong gulped a lump... And just kept walking ahead without any word... And he knows what will happen next...

"Hey Arthit..." Richa chirped. And Kong didn't know why he felt prickling chagrin with her voice.

"Hey... How are you?" Kong gnawed his lips, hearing the deep voice.

Mayur held Kong's hand and they stood behind Richa. Knowing she will be chatty for a moment now.

"What are you doing here?" Richa twirled with the locks of her hairs.

"Nothing much... Just had to attend a call... Hey Mayur..."

"Hey..." Mayur waved. They were neighbours and Mayur knew Arthit well.

Kong felt a pang in his heart when Arthit so easily chatted with Richa, easily mentioned Mayur... But when it's his turn... He didn't even get a simple hello. It was all so confusing.

Kong's phone started ringing in his sidebag... Breaking his line of thoughts. He drew in a deep breath and pulled his phone out. He checked the unknown number and frowned, picking it up. His very costly phone... Which he kept very dearly... His father gifted it to him on his last birthday.

"Hello..." Kong uttered.

"Did you recognise me?" Kong heard a disembodied man's voice from the other side.

Kong frowned, the voice did seem familiar. And then he smiled. "Pratik bhaiya... How did you get my number?"

"How did you recognise my voice?" Pratik sighed.

"We literally practice dance everyday... How could I not?" Kong giggled. Not realising the pale jaws clenching like a rock... And the fists that formed inside the pockets.

"Yeah right..."

"Did you want something? How did you get my number?" Kong was curious getting the call from his dance partner.

"Uhh... I might have taken it from your friend..."

Kong hummed... He didn't like the fact that his personal details are being passed by his friends, without his permission...

"I am sorry I took it without permission..."

"It's alright... But please approach me for my details next time..." Kong uttered as politely as possible... Not to sound rude... Ignoring the stare on his face.

"Yes mam..."

"Did you need something?"

"Yes... We are starting our arrangements for the fair... I was in your area... Thought I could give you a lift..."

Kong felt himself frown as he tilted his head. "Where are you?"

Kong jolted hearing a horn right behind. He looked over and was shocked for a moment. Looking at Pratik grinning at him from the open driver's side's window on his car.

"Here..." Pratik  grinned, his eyes shaded by glasses. "Hey there beautiful..."

Kong's heart skipped on beats and he gulped a lump, taking a quick glance over his shoulder. What was happening in his life?

Kong gulped a lump and cut the call. Forcing a smile at Pratik. "Hello..."

"Come on... Get inside..." Pratik fixed his gaze at Kong's face.

Richa cleared her throat, crossing her arms with a tight smile. "Hey there you butt... We are around as well..."

Pratik rolled his eyes and smiled bored at his friend and the junior. "I meant all of you... Take the backseat... Come on..."

Richa shrugged, holding Mayur's hand. "Free rides are not to be refused..."

"Cheapskate..." Pratik mumbled under his breath.

"Why thank you... Spoiled brat... Did your father pay you your pocket money?"

Pratik glared at Richa and their bantering missed the pairs of eyes that were fixed on each other. Kong stared at the hazel eyes... Hoping that maybe... Just maybe Arthit would stop him... Or even say something... Anything... Just to show him a little hope... Just a little. But Arthit just kept looking back with his ever blank face and deep eyes... And all Kong did was blush...

What was he waiting for anyways? Who are they to each other? What are they? What is Kong even hoping for?

Kong jolted, coming to his senses feeling a hand grab his wrist and he looked over to find Pratik pulling him towards the car. And he looked back again, strange how he knows that Arthit is beyond upset... Just looking at the sharp jaw formed in a tight line and the ticking temples... As he kept being leaned against the bike with crossed arms.

Why? Why did he look like a murderer? What did he even want?

"Come on Kong... We are wasting time on STUPID PEOPLE..."

Kong knows Pratik means his friends but he still couldn't help but wonder if Pratik was right... Was he? Yet... He stopped walking... Pratik frowned over his shoulder to find Kong stopped in front of the car... Their connected hands dangling between them.

"What?" Pratik tilted his head.

"I can get in the car myself.." Kong uttered softly, with a gentle smile. Gesturing at their hands. He will go with Pratik... He decided that very instant... Why won't he reject a comfortable ride anyways?

Pratik looked down and dropped his hold, with an embarrassed flush. "Ohh... Yeah ofcourse..." He scratched the back of his head, peering at Kong.

Kong smiled, shaking his head as he walked past Pratik towards the empty companion seat. Pratik took a gentle smell of Kong's lingering fragrance and smiled softly to himself... Cheering himself inside... Then he met the gaze of the man standing on the opposite side. And like his habit he smiled at the man politely.

Pratik gaped, feeling alarmed at the way the man just stared at him blankly without any response... And he protective instincts started kicking off. But then the man did gave a small smile his way... Though it never reached his eyes... It still lowered Pratik's protective wall. As he got inside the car.

Kong stared at his lap, with ragged breaths. His friend's chattering in the back felt like a distant sound... He just focussed on the gaze he felt on himself from across the road. Even after Pratik got inside the car and started rolling it uphill towards the main road.

Something didn't feel right... Something suffocated Kong... Making him dizzy and unfocussed... Like something was wrong very wrong... And he kept his unfocussed eyes on the road... Gnawing his lips.

"Stop the car!" It came way harsher then he was supposed to. And the car came to a screeching halt instantly.

Arthit gritted his teeth murderously.... Focussing his blank eyes ahead with ragged breaths. He knows everything just by looking at those pleading eyes... But he also knows that he showed enough to let his feelings show...

"Yeh diwangi tujhe le dubegi..." Arthit remembers Dishant laughing at him.

Arthit did not reply... Knowing Dishant was right in a way... He did go insane for the innocent beauty... He did notice the beautiful maiden first... Then he learnt the nature and suddenly there was no going back for him... Was he being too much?

Arthit's focus went particularly to the change in atmosphere instantly... He felt his lips curve in a soft smile as he felt the car halting from the corner of his eyes. He didn't have to look to know that... He even heard the car's door opening and closing from the distance.

He drew in a deep breath and looked up to the bright sky... Ruining his life? Where? He wants to be a better person everyday... To be worth...

He knows his actions and his reputation might have intimidated someone... But it's been long enough to know that he wasn't chasing goose...

He feels worth.

He straightened and straddled his bike, putting in the key and getting it to life... Looking ahead, rolling the gear as the car drove away... And he can see the fury in those soft eyes... The anger in that beautiful face... The distance couldn't hide it... And he found it adorable... So refreshing...

And Arthit snorted to himself kicking his bike ahead looking at the petite, tender form stomping ahead... Kong's flaring nostrils audible even from the distance...

Kong sniffed and rubbed away his angry tears and gulped down lumps... Walking towards the main road... Feeling it inside that he has lost even without stepping into it... That he has started feeling he belongs to someone even without anyone voicing it... And he felt so angry... With everything... Hearing the engine just behind.

He wondered if he can just ignore his sense of respect and throw his jutti right across at the pale, handsome face... He stomped his feet harder knowing he can't do it.

"What happened?" Pratik sighed, as he drove the car disappointed.

Mayur wanted to assure the poor guy and soothe him but...

"Stop trying you idiot... He is already committed..."

Mayur snapped his gaze at Richa with wide eyes... And Richa winked at him with a smile... Making Mayur's jaw drop.

"But... But... I saw him with no one..." Pratik protested.

"You don't have to..." Richa shrugged leaning back. "Pure love is not for everyone to see..."

Mayur felt so in love with Richa that he hugged Richa tight. Making her chuckle and hold him back tight... Leaving a very confused Pratik... Frowning...

It was a happening day as always... So tiring... And it was finally time for Kong to board the bus to home. He travels every night by bus... And refused to make his father come pick him up... It's inconvenient and scary... But somehow the bus conductor and driver are really sweet and makes sure that Kong felt safe... He can't take the ladies bus like he does in the morning... Why?? There is a reason....

Kong's heart skipped on beats and he jumped to his feet from the bench he was sitting on under the well lit bus stop. He gnawed his lips looking at the bus that was coming towards the stop... It's the last one and Kong looked around at the empty bus stop and closing shops. The winds making him hug his shawl tight around himself... As it howled around the valley just behind... So beautiful in the morning but equally scary at night...

And Kong felt his heart dropping finding himself alone... For the first time in a while now... and he didn't know what to do... As the bus stopped in front of him... The conductor stepped on the last step and looked at Kong... And Kong was not surprised at all when the conductor checked around himself... Just like Kong... Then finally met Kong's gaze.

"Aaj bhaiya nahi aae?"

Kong blushed, gulping down a lump and shook his head at the conductor. Feeling like digging a hole.

Arthit ran... He kept running... He was horribly late and to add to his despair he didn't get any cab...

It was a coincidence.... One night after he closed his office and was having his smoke... Before going back home... His mind occupied unconsciously with a beautiful face... As he leaned his hip back against his bike and stared at the sky... Taking puffs... He was so engrossed that he felt like he can smell the refreshing essence... He felt he was mostly occupied with those invasive thoughts. So occupied that when he looked towards the bus stop... He thought he saw that beautiful omega...

Arthit had snapped his gaze back at the bus stand... Kong was really there... Arthit frowned... Looking at the time... It was almost nine and Kong was all alone. What was he doing here... He looked around... And he saw the coaching centre  close to the huge market place... And it wasn't hard for Arthit to understand... As he looked back at the bus stop...

He didn't know why his protective instincts kicks in whenever the maiden is close but it just does... He knows he might come off as a creep but he just couldn't help but make sure that Kong was alright...

So when he boarded the special ladies bus... Arthit has instinctively followed on his bike... The omega like always felt Arthit's presence and he looked so mousy when he came down the bus and started walking the empty alley towards his home. And Arthit followed with a good amount of distance after parking his bike...

Kong was obviously scared... But Arthit made sure he didn't get any closer... To not make Kong more wary... And he felt he succeeded when Kong's speed became slower and he even looked back after getting inside the house.

And Arthit didn't know how it became a routine... But he followed it... Morning and night... And to his delightful surprise after a whole month... He noticed a subtle change... Kong not getting in the special bus... But waiting for the common one... Always so flushing and adorable... But Arthit can read those beautiful eyes... He realised... Kong has started warming up to him... Even without them sharing a single word...

Arthit believes in actions and he knows Kong requires words... Arthit didn't know how to do it... But after two years... He feels in his heart... That Kong can read him even without sharing a single word...

So he started taking his bike back home then coming back here to board the bus with Kong... The bus would remain almost empty every night... And Kong takes one particular seat which has another seat facing from opposite side... And Arthit learnt taking that opposite seat every night... Because even if he can't guard Kong in the morning he makes sure he is there at night... No matter what.

That he is insanely in love with Kong... And he loses it... Whenever it's about Kong...

But... Seems like he was late that night... As he leaned over holding his knees trying to catch his breath, watching the bus driving away from the opposite side of the road... Arthit dropped his head and gulped down his dry throat... Feeling awful... Feeling... His breathes caught as he smelt something that the winds from the opposite valley carried towards him.

Arthit slowly looked up and let out a soft gasp... Wanting to drop on his knees... Not knowing how he managed not to... Looking at the lone figure sitting all alone on the opposite side of the road...

Arthit straightened, not needing lights to drown himself in those charcoal depths... To see the relief that washed over the beautiful maiden... And Arthit felt he might die peacefully now... Watching as Kong slowly raised his hand and pulled open his hair... Letting them veil around him... As the breeze flew the long strands all about and Kong tucked his hair, dropping his gaze shyly...

They didn't exchange a single word... Yet... Arthit knows Kong... And he feels like a blessed soul knowing Kong knows him too....

Kong closed his eyes with trembling lips... Feeling so much at once... So much... And he didn't know what to do about it... How can he let the bus go and decide to sit alone with just believe that Arthit will come...

What are they?

Kong looked away... Tucking his flowing locks and rubbed away his tears feeling Arthit come over and sit on the bench at the other end... Kong's body shook as he bit his lips to hold in his cries but couldn't hold the sobs...

Why? Why did he start reading the eyes... And without even realising committing himself to something which is not even spoken... Why did he have the urge to break down in the arms of the man who never even gave him any particular direction...

Why did he just wanted to hug Arthit... Cry against his chest to let him know the pain he is suffering with... To beg him to end this...  He wanted... Kong didn't know what he wanted anymore...

After the fourth night of being escorted Home safely... Kong remembers hugging the pillow and struggling for breaths with curled toes..  his heart skipping on beats and body flushing... That was the first time Kong felt like he is safe and protected...

The distant horn on the bus caught their attention and Kong rubbed away his cheeks and came to his feet... Ignoring the stare he felt on his sideface...

When he boarded the bus, his body sang feeling the warmth that followed him just behind... He wanted to take a single seat without having to face that man... But he couldn't... Just couldn't... Not after seeing the man running to be on the bus... So he sat down like he always does and soon was facing that man on the opposite seat... Leaned over resting his elbows over parted knees. Still catching breath and looking red on his pale face after all the running...

Kong sniffed and sat quietly as the bus started again... And he held his side bag tight, looking out of the window... Refusing to acknowledge the man staring at him...

But after hearing him cough for the fifth time out of thirst... Kong couldn't... As he gave up like always... He opened the bag and pulled out his bottle, which he makes sure to keep filled no matter what... And passed it to Arthit without looking at him... And he felt relieved hearing Arthit gulp down the water...

Then he got the bottle back, putting it inside. And finally pulled out the lunch box... And sanitizer... He put his bag on the empty side... Passing the sanitizer towards Arthit... Without looking... But when he got no response... He stared at Arthit... And his heart skipped on beats looking at the hazel eyes staring so deeply at him... Kong blushed and gritted his teeth with chagrin at the same time as Arthit parted his lips and opened his mouth instead of taking what Kong provided... Stiffening Kong

Kong wanted to pretend like he understands nothing... But he felt angry tears instead... Because he did... And like always, Kong slumped in defeat... He knows Arthit won... Like a robot... He sanitizes his hands and opens the lunch box... Tearing small bites of the paratha and dipping it with achar and holding it up to Arthit's lips.

Not holding back his tears as he saw the glint of victory in Arthit's eyes... As he chewed the food... Still leaned over and never blinking his eyes... While Kong shed endless silent tears feeding Arthit.

It was sudden too... One time as they were driving along... Kong overheard a conversation of Arthit and his mother... Arthit was lying about having food in the evening and Layna was making him swear... And Arthit hesitated to lie...

Kong luckily has his unfinished lunch that day... Though he hesitated but he didn't know why he didn't like knowing Arthit might be hungry... So he ended up opening his lunch box and approaching it towards Arthit. Who looked surprised once but then... Kong never knew Arthit can look so soft. As he leaned over and tore a piece of paratha and dipping it with pickle before taking a bite... His penetrating aura and eyes solely focused on Kong.

"Yes mom... I swear I ate... Even had aam ka achar..." Arthit had rumbled, never looking away from Kong... Who avoided Arthit, focussing on the sharp jaw ticking with the way Arthit chewed... So handsome in any way...  The thought making Kong blush...

"You are obsessed with aam ka achar... Tone it down..."

That was the day... After which Kong brings an extra share with himself everyday and makes sure to have achar....

Arthit kept watching after his belly was full... As Kong leaned sideways against the window letting his hairs flow with crossed arms. And those beautiful tears made Arthit smile... As he relaxed on the seat and fixed his gaze solely on the gorgeous maiden... Feeling like he is loved as well...

Maybe they need to share words... Maybe they didn't... But at that moment... They both felt... No matter how painful or confusing... This moment they shared is the most beautiful one... So they chose to live it... And love is a beautiful thing... It makes its way no matter how...
___________________________________________

Author's Translation:

1. Bas abhi aai - I will be back in a snap.

2. Holi- an Indian festival of colours.

3. Aap thik hai?- are you okay?

4. Thik hai beta - we are fine, son...

5. Guddu- endearment.

6. Tulsi- Indian basil.

7. Guddu aaja beta nashta lag gaya - Guddu come on, breakfast is ready dear.

8. Aai mumma - coming mom.

9. Us janwar ko mat batana ki aapse baat karta hu... Mujhe noch khaayega- don't tell that beast that I talk to you... He will rip me apart.

10. Moti ho gayi hu - I am putting on weight.

11. Aam ka achar bhi dal diya hai- I put mango pickle as well.

12. Chinta mat karo didi... Uska bodyguard bahar hi khada hai- don't worry his bodyguard is standing right outside.

13. Aur mujhe pata hai aap use mutthi me rakh sakoge- And I know very well that you can keep him in control.

14. Arey bhaiya... Aap uth gaye? Nashta laga du- hello brother... You are up? Shall I serve your breakfast?

15. Guddu dekh... Aloo puri... Teri favourite- Look Guddu aloo puri your favourite.

16. Inhe aur paroso - serve him more.

17. Yeh diwangi tujhe le dubegi - this madness will ruin you one day.

18. Aaj bhaiya nahi aae - did brother not come today?

___________________________________________

lazylioness555 Lazy baby... You aren't lazy at all... But the sweetest... Of them all...