Kong's tears kept soaking Arthit's shirt as the sobbing omega curled in to his arms. Kongpob's sobs struck Arthit to his core, igniting a primal urge to protect and comfort the omega. Arthit's heart raced with emotions he struggled to contain - rage, care, pain, sadness and someting very primal which told him no one was good enough for KOng. No one can make the omega happy and calm like he did.

 He hated that asshole Alpha Niran who did this to Kong. If that bastard fell in his hand he would make sure to crush his bone to fine powder and use it to fertilise garden in his office.Then he promptly dropped the idea as Kong loved to touch, caress and spend time with those plants. And no part of Alpha Niran deserved even a second of Kongpob's time. 

"Why it always happens with me phi..why can't I be normal for once? Why for once I can not have things that other omegas have."

Arthit rubbed Kong's shoulder "You are normal and no one can say otherwise. Everyone is unique Kong. That bone head was not last person on the earth. Hush now...you know your head aches after you cry. Don't wait your precious tears at that bastard."

Kong hiccuped "I broke his bones phi."

"You broke his ego nothing else " Arthit was petty and he owned it proudly "Now hush...let's find which club he goes in and spit in his drink"

Kong chuckled through hiccups. The first alpha who tried to bully Kong had faced exactly this punishment. Arthit had convinced him to sneak in to the alpha's party and spit in his drink- They kept giggling seeing the bully drinking that spit seasoned drink cluelessly. Although he is not very proud of his action as a teen- it still makes him giggle over their pettiness and stupidity. 

Having made his decision..."Kongy.."arthit said softly...

Kong sniffled, trying to control his tears, he looked up at Artiht's face.

"mate me...I promise I will never make you cry. You will be all the freedom to be yourself....mate me," Arthit blurted out, his voice raw with emotion.

Kongpob pulled back, his eyes wide with surprise. "Mate you?" he echoed, disbelief evident in his tone. "Why suddenly phi?"

Arthit took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking. "Because I can't stand seeing you in tears," he confessed, his voice trembling with sincerity. "Because I hate knowing that you're hurting, and I want to be the one to wipe away your tears and hold you close. Because... because I love you, Kong. I cannot see you like this...I want to murder that bastard.  You want dates...we can date..you want to be in live in..we are already doing that. You want a big, fat wedding- done. Just mate me."

Kongpob's breath caught in his throat, his heart pounding with a mixture of hope and fear. "You love me?" he whispered, unable to believe the words coming from Arthit's lips.

Arthit nodded, his eyes never leaving Kongpob's. "Yes, Kongy. You know I love you, I have loved you since I first saw you- wee bit snotty baby soiling my clothes.... Not that you do not do that now" he said, teasing, trying to make the situation light.

"But are you in love with me phi? " Kongpob asked, sad.

"Its the same thing Kong. I know all your strengths and flaws still I find you perfect. I don't care if you can't cook, and you don't mind if I'm a grumpy bastard half the time. I have learnt all those omega essential skills for you. You know how I like my pink milk.  We know how to handle each other, Kong. We're better as a team, in any game, in any challenge life throws at us."

Kongpob's heart swelled with a mixture of love and longing, his mind racing with thoughts of what could be. "But life isn't a game, phi" he replied, his voice tinged with sadness. "And I want more than just a partnership based on convenience. I want... I want romance, and love, and fights, and all the cheesy, corny stuff. I want to be with someone who's in love with me, who sees me as more than just a friend. "

Arthit's heart sank at Kongpob's words, his own fears and insecurities bubbling to the surface. "I know, Kong," he said, his voice heavy with regret. "And I understand if you don't want to settle for anything less. But... but I can't help how I feel, and I can't take another asshole treating you like this. I will bloody chase and murder him. Promise me, you will atleast bring pinkmilk in jail everyday?"

Kong cuffed him over chest "Don't be dramatic"

"You are being dramatic, Kong" Arthit said. "Love is just love. Loving and being in love is same. What is the difference?  Those stupid romance novels fool your minds - what good did it do phi grace? What good did it do Anurak? They ruined their lives and broke their heart. We were atleast there for him, there are hundreds and thousand who doesn't even have support, they end up discarded in some seedy ally- like Anu would have if we would have not been there at that time. There is no sense in chasing those intangible things when we can build something solid. "

Kong kept silent. He knew Grace's failed mating had put a deep impression on Teen Arthit that this adult Arthit had carried with him. Arthit thinks alphas nature is inherently exploitative- and he tries his best not to show his dominant side and provide best of the best for all the omegas around him.

"Mating needs compatibility kongy- we have that in loads.  We are perfect for each other. We know each other more than any lover could claim to know his beloved. We are patient with each other- we understand each other on the level that people think we are soulmates. What more does one want from mating? "

"Loving someone and being in love is totally different phi. You can love with anything and everything but being in Love phi.needs courage..it is all consuming ...It's like... like a whirlwind, you know?" he began, his voice soft and introspective. 

"You are not just you anymore- a part of that person seeps in you. Their choice, their happiness is more important. Your existence gets tied with theirs. There's this undeniable attraction that pulls you in, like a magnet drawing you closer and closer until you're consumed by it. Every glance, every touch ignites a fire within you, a burning desire that you can't ignore."He paused, his thoughts drifting back to the moments of longing and yearning that had filled his days and nights. "And then there's the longing," he continued, his voice tinged with sadness. "The ache in your heart when you're apart, the constant yearning for their presence, their touch, their love. It's like a hunger that can never be satisfied, no matter how much you try.""But amidst the longing, there's also the care," Kongpob mused, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "The deep sense of devotion that compels you to put their needs above your own, to sacrifice everything for their happiness. It's a selfless kind of love, one that fills you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment."He sighed, the weight of his words settling heavily upon him. "But then... then there's the heartbreak," he whispered, his voice breaking with emotion. "The inevitable pain of realizing that love isn't always enough, that sometimes even the deepest connections can be broken. It's a crushing blow, one that leaves you shattered and lost, wondering if it was all worth it in the end.""And yet, despite the heartbreak, there's still the innocence," Kongpob murmured, his voice growing softer with each passing word. "The pure, unadulterated joy of experiencing love , of giving your heart fully and completely without fear or reservation. It's a precious gift, one that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world."

"Even if it will hurt you in the future? You have seen the proof Kong. "

"I want to take the risk phi. Phi Grace has found Phi Lay now and she is happy."

"What if he turns out to be same as him?"

"If I keep holding myself back, I may be safe from heartbreak but I can never find that true connection phi. Great things deserves great risks to be taken..don't they?"

"You are my best friend Kong...I can't loose you. You understand right?"

"I do"

"I just want you happy and safe."

"I know phi"

"I am not liking your decision and this is second time you have rejected me. You owe me atleast ten buckets of choco chip icecream. "

"I know"

"You will let me look at those stupid alpha profiles right? You won't ignore my gut feeling?"

"I can handle myself phi"

"I know...You can kongy. But I don't like that you have to. Just for my peace of mind. Can you atleast share your location with me when you go to one of those?"

"You can't say "date" now?"

"No... You yourself said date is with someone you love or atleast can see yourself falling in love in near future...You don't even know those morons"

"and you don't know them too...how can you call them morons? "

"Because I am already not liking them." 

"Just don't make them run for hills and we will be fine"

Arthit made a face "Can't promise anything."

"Phi!" Kong narrowed his eyes.

"Kongy..."Arthit's voice held panic. "Next time..you will call me if anything like that happens right?"

"Who else will I call?" Kong asked and Arthit's tensed body relaxed " I am still up for serving spit seasoned cocktail to that asshole.."

"We are not sixteen anymore phi!" Kong chided.

"I wish we were" Arthit lamented "You would not be going on those thrice damned meetings"

"Its date"

"My ass"Arthit swore.

"Is swollen out of proportion like your face" Kong retorted.

"I will have you know..its an ass to die for.."

"Its a weapon of destruction"Kong teased "If we could package your farts, i am sure our soldiers wouldn't need ammunition to dissuade enemies."

"Then let me  go and launch some missiles in Niran's house" Arthit joked along.

Kong giggled and giggled until his eyes were teary "That's very tempting but no...let alpha Niran go. "'

"Yeah...because we have several more to deal with in future- .."

"Can you be civil about it please"Kong asked glaring.

"No can do Kongpob!" Arthit held his stare " If you are adamant on going ahead with your plan- atleast i get to show my disagreement."

"Still you will support me right?" Kong asked, eyes filled with hope.

"Always.."Arthit held Kong tightly in his arms.

Closing his eyes, Kongpob let out a shaky breath, his heart heavy with the weight of his emotion, he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "I know how filmsy and childish it sound to you phi. But I can't live with settling for the best. I also don't want you to just settle down . Iwant to chase that uncertainity, live that adventure. I want my alpha to know me, to understand me, to love me with all of my flaws and imperfections. I want his eyes to light up when he sees me, his heart to beat faster at the sound of my voice. I want him to see me like no one else did. I want his ears to recognise my footseps... I want to loose myself in him. I want to be his everything, just as he is mine."With a heavy heart and tear-filled eyes, Kongpob let the weight of his emotions wash over him, finding solace in the knowledge that no matter what the future held, he would always cherish the memories of his first love, the sweetness and the sorrow intertwined in the tapestry of his heart.

"I pray you get what you want and much more Kongy. You deserve it. "

Tears welled up in Kongpob's eyes as he gazed into Arthit's soulful gaze, Arthit reached out, gently wiping away Kongpob's tears with his thumb. "No matter how much I tease, scold and grumble at you, Kong,..remember I am always on your side. You will always have me" he murmured, his voice soft with tenderness. "Just know that whatever you decide, I'll always be here for you. "

With a heavy heart and a mind full of conflicting emotions, Kongpob leaned into Arthit's touch, seeking comfort and reassurance in the warmth of his embrace. And in that moment, as they held each other close, they both knew that no matter what the future held, their bond would always remain unbreakable, forged in the fires of friendship and love.

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

Kongpob was enthusiastically scaling the big mountain on dating, and Arthit's snarky persona had new scales with every person Kongpob even showed slight interest in.

 Kongpob excitedly showed Anurak pictures of some potential alpha mates he had been chatting with, Arthit couldn't help but give his two cents about them.

 Kong was showing Anurak an alpha with vibrant blue scales and majestic wings unfurled behind him. "Wow, an air dragon shifter," he remarked, impressed. "That's pretty rare."

"Yeah, isn't it amazing?" Kongpob replied, a grin spreading across his face. "And listen to this – he's passionate about environmental conservation and loves exploring the great outdoors. Plus, he's got a great sense of humor."

Arthit nodded thoughtfully, tapping his chin as he considered the potential match. "Well, if you're looking to take your electric therapy to the next level, I'd say this guy definitely fits the bill,"

Kongpob ignored Arthit's comment, feeling a surge of excitement at the prospect of meeting someone who shared his love for adventure and the environment. "I think I'll send him a message and see if we can arrange a meeting," he said eagerly.

"He was decent in chats...besides I have a good feeling about him" Anurak encouraged. The alpha was out of country and was due back next month so Kongpob continued to scroll through his list, his excitement faltered slightly as he came across another intriguing profile. "What about this one?" he asked, showing Anurak a photo of an alpha with mischievous eyes and a playful smirk.

Anurak expression turned skeptical as he studied the photo. "A raccoon shifter, huh?" he mused, arching an eyebrow. 

"I vouch for this one" Arthit quipped from his place "Its well and good if it goes well, else, he can always make a tasty snack."

Kongpob gave Arthit a dead stare but continued scrolling. .

"Ah, a water otter shifter," Arthit remarked, studying the photo of an alpha lounging by a tranquil stream. "I will take first class tickets to watch your fights...he can always flood the house and you can electrocute him."

Kong threw his phone on the sofa and stood up, levelling Arthit with a stare "Can have a private word with you ?"

"Oh! Will your alpha like it?" Arthit taunted. 

"Is it because I cancelled our movie night for the date with Alpha Luca?"

"Nope"Arthit shook his head "We had a blast without someone electrocuting us every shocking scene"

"Liar!" Anurak exposed Arthit "He was so distracted - he froze my piping hot pasta...i had to hammer the poor thing out. 

Kong grabbed Arthit's wrist and pulled him upstairs ..."What is your problem?" He seethed.

Arthit shrugged "Nothing."

"Doesn't look like nothing! I told you our meeting was planned long before you came up with movie plan"

"Yeah...I said, I understand. You don't have time for us now."

"Phi it's not like that..."

"It is like that....You already don't have time for us...what happens when you actually get mated?"

"I missed just one movie night and you are accusing me of neglecting you and Anu!"

"Its all about prioritising! That moron isn't even engaged to you yet...still appointment with him is your first priority..."

"You know what..I am done with this topic"Kong yelled "I told you we already made plans before you two even came up with the idea. But you are not ready to listen. You have already decided to be childish about it."

"Childish?" Arthit raised a brow.

"Anurak is a literal kid and he is more mature about it than you"

"Wow!  I am immature and childish and what are you who have forgotten your own promise to always put our family first.."

"You are blowing it out of proportion phi"

"If I am so much of a dramatic , immature and childish person..why are you even talking to me?"

"Right...my bad...if you show your face in ten meter radius of me..I will electrocute your balls the size of pea" He stormed off to his bedroom..Arthit stormed out of the house. Bulbs kept flickering and the air was chilling the occupants of the house to bones. And Anurak was left wondering till when he will have to face this drama from them. 

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

Although Arthit had stormed out, he did not go far. Two of his most importat persons were in that building and he could not bear leaving them unprotected in case of emergency. After pacing back and forth infront of building Arthit came back in to the house...he saw Kong sitting near the stairs, his eyes stuck at the door. As soon as Arthit entered, Kong stomped back to his room shared with Anu. 

Arhit was left alone with his thoughts. He laid on his sofa bed, his thoughts a tumultuous whirlwind of emotions. 

The events of the day replayed in his mind like a broken record, each moment etched with sharp clarity.

He traced his fingers along the edges of his ring, his gaze distant as he stared into nothing. A heavy sigh escaped his lips, the weight of his own irrational behavior pressing down on him like a suffocating blanket. It had never bothered him before when Kong went out with friends. Then why was it bothering him nOw?

Because it is not the same. Those Alphas are not friends. HIs dragon provided. Those alphas would one day take Kong away from him and even imagining the scenario made his blood boil.

Kong wants this. He reminded himself.

"Why not us?" His dragon questioned. Kongpob's words echoed in his mind. Kong wants someone who is in love with him. 

Being in love...it made people irrational. Especially alphas. Phi grace's mate was good until he fell in love with phi grace. In love, alphas consider omegas their territory...and they get jealous, project their wants and desires on omegas- they use them for their own satisfaction. Being in love isn't as cuddly and romantic as they made out to be. It is burning passion- flames all consuming and Arthit isn't ready to get consumed by it - to engulf an omega in it. He will never do that. 

He cannot take risk. He can not loose what he had built up with Kong. Just tiny sparks of possesiveness had already ruined so much.

How had he let jealousy and insecurity cloud his judgment so completely? He knew Kongpob had made plans with that alpha before the impromptu movie night had been suggested, yet he had allowed his own insecurities to twist the situation into something it wasn't.

The memory of Kongpob storming off, hurt and angry, made Arthit's chest ache with regret. He had let his emotions get the best of him, lashing out with hurtful words instead of approaching the situation with understanding and empathy.Closing his eyes, Arthit let out a slow, steadying breath, willing himself to confront the uncomfortable truth lurking within him. He had always prided himself on being a rational, level-headed individual, but when it came to Kongpob, his emotions seemed to have a mind of their own.He couldn't bear the thought of losing Kongpob's friendship, let alone risking their bond over something as trivial as a missed movie night. And yet, his actions had driven a wedge between them, creating a rift that now seemed insurmountable.

 Wasn't he the one who had boasted of never making Kongy sad? And within an hour of promising him eternal happiness- he had pissed Kong out of his mind.

With a sense of resignation, Arthit acknowledged that he had made a mistake – a big one. But admitting it was only the first step. He needed to make things right, to apologize to Kongpob and show him that he valued their friendship above all else. And he wants what is best for Kong.

Standing up from the sofa, determination burned bright in Arthit's eyes as he set about making amends. He would find a way to make things right with Kongpob, no matter what it took. Because in the end, their bond was worth far more than his wounded pride.

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

The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows of their apartment, painting the kitchen in hues of golden light as Arthit moved about with a mixture of determination and anxiety. 

He meticulously chopped vegetables, the rhythmic sound of the knife against the cutting board a steady beat to the thoughts racing in his mind. Each slice and dice seemed to carry the weight of his regret, his heart heavy with the knowledge that he had hurt Kongpob deeply. Yet, amidst the turmoil, there was a glimmer of hope as he stirred pots and pans, coaxing flavors to life in Kongpob's favorite dish.Meanwhile, upstairs in their shared bedroom, Kongpob paced back and forth like a caged tiger, his mind consumed by a whirlwind of emotions. The anger that had ignited in him still burned hotly, fueled by the sting of Arthit's accusations. He tried to distract himself, to calm the storm raging within him, but the hurtful words echoed relentlessly in his ears.

As the scent of the cooking wafted through the apartment, tempting even Kongpob's senses, Arthit set the table with care, arranging plates and utensils with a meticulousness born out of a desire to make things right. Each movement was deliberate, each gesture an offering of reconciliation.But when Kongpob remained stubbornly upstairs, refusing to yield to the scent of apology lingering in the air, Arthit's heart sank like a stone in his chest. He felt a sense of desperation creeping in, a fear that perhaps he had irreparably damaged their bond.

Determined not to give up, Arthit hatched a new plan. With a sense of purpose, he slipped out of the apartment and made his way to their favorite bakery, where he carefully selected Kongpob's favorite dessert – a decadent chocolate cake layered with rich cream and fresh berries.

Next, he ventured to the florist, his eyes scanning the colorful array of blooms until he found the perfect bouquet – a vibrant mix of roses and lilies, their petals a riot of color against the backdrop of green leaves. With his purchases in hand, Arthit returned home and set about writing a heartfelt apology on a small card, his words a reflection of the remorse that weighed heavily on his heart. He poured his soul into each sentence, expressing his care for Kongpob and his deep regret for his actions.

Finally, with everything in place, Arthit arranged for the flowers and the card to be delivered to office at Kongpob's desk, hoping against hope that his gesture would be enough to mend the rift between them.

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

Kongpob was surprised to see a huge boquet sitting on his desk. He plucked the card filled with Arthit's neat, cursive handwriting.

In the garden of our friendship, amidst laughter's bloom,I come to you humbly, dispelling all gloom.Forgive my foolish jests, my dear Kong, I implore,Let's reignite our joy, let harmony restore.I stumbled in the dance of wit, tripped on my pride,But in your grace, I find solace, no need to hide.So let's mend the tears, let's weave a tapestry anew,Together, hand in hand, let's paint skies of blue.With your laughter as my melody, and your kindness my sail,Let's navigate life's ocean, let not our bond fail.For in your friendship, I find strength, I find glee,My dear Kongpob, won't you forgive me?

Not even if I have your favourite cake?

Kong smiled. The poem wasn't even near to the bests he has read but he knew how much effort Arthit had to have put in to making the words rhyme. 

Taking the bottle of pink milk out of the fridge, Kong arranged a straw and strutted in to Arthit's office. He slammed the bottle on Arthit' desk "Your balls are safe for now... now where is my cake?"

Arthit grinned . 

Kong had forgiven him. His skewed world was back on axis now. 

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

A/N : Hi...so this story is close to end now...Arthit is realising his feelings slowly. I know This story has potential for lots of dramatic arch..but I want to keep it simple. I know no friendship or bond is this dreamy or perfectish...but let's live in delulu. We have enough dramas in life. I want it to be as minimal angst as possible.