As Kongpob settled into his new office on the first day, he couldn't help but notice the elaborate and huge welcome package on his desk along with a big bouquet.

The package was presented in a sturdy, branded box adorned with the company logo, creating an immediate sense of professionalism.

Upon opening the box, Kongpob discovered a neatly folded welcome letter that conveyed warm greetings from the company and an introduction to his new role. Beneath the letter lay an array of carefully curated items.

A high-quality pen, a notepad, and a sleek coffee mug and a water bottle with the company logo.

In the next compartment, there were variety of healthy snacks like mixed nuts, granola bars, and dried fruits neatly arranged in a compartment.

In another compartment was pair of gloves and thermal socks and a diffuser? With different selection of scents and essential oils.
Diffusers?
What was it ? An office? Or A spa?

Next to it was A small package of gourmet coffee beans.

Alongside the snacks and beverages, there was a personalized welcome note from the HR team, expressing excitement about Kongpob joining the company and offering support during his onboarding

At the bpttom, there was also discreetly placed bottle of heat pills.

Heat pills? In a corporate welcome package? It suspiciously reminded Kong of care package Arthit had sent.

Kongpob again examined the welcome package on his desk.
Thermal gloves and socks.
Diffusers .
Heat pills.

Is he overreacting?

Hell no!

Confused and slightly irritated, he decided to confront Arthit about it.

Kongpob marched into Arthit's office without even knocking " what's the deal with these heat pills in the welcome package? Is this some kind of joke?"

"Heat pills? Oh, those are just part of the standard welcome kit." Arthit replied "Everyone gets them. It better equips you during office hours and also can be used for those occasional headaches or muscle aches you might get during work."

Kongpob was sceptical "Really? You mean to say, everyone gets these? Even those colourful thermal socks? "

"Well, it's a new addition to the package." Arthit added defensively. " HR department thought it would be helpful."

Kongpob crossed his arms " I just don't want people thinking I can't handle my stress, headaches or heats just because I'm an omega. It feels like a targeted gift."

Arthit wiggled uncomfortably in his chair. He did not think it would make Kong feel targetted.
"Kong, it's not about that. We just want our team to be comfortable. You are not the first nor will you be the last to recieve a welcome package in our company."

Kong nodded, " I understand. Thank you for explaining it to me sir."

" You are welcome Kongpob. " Arthit replied with a smile that Kong did not reciprocate. " Are you ready to meet your team now?"

..........

As they gathered in the sleek conference room, adorned with digital screens displaying real-time cybersecurity metrics, anticipation filled the air.

Arthit, the CEO, began the introductions.

"Team, I'd like you to meet Kongpob, our new Executive Assistant. He'll be working closely with me to ensure the smooth operation of the executive office."

Kongpob nodded with a friendly smile, acknowledging the team. Arthit continued, "Now, let me introduce you to these brilliant minds."

First to your left is Pim, our Security Solutions Architect:
Pim, with a passion for designing robust security solutions, greeted Kongpob with a firm handshake.
"Welcome, Kongpob. If you ever need insights into our security architecture, I'm your go-to person."

" Second to your left is Piya, our Cybersecurity Strategist: Piya, the strategic thinker of the team, extended a warm welcome. "Great to have you on board, Kongpob. If you ever want to discuss cybersecurity strategies or potential threats, feel free to reach out."

" This young man is Nat, our Operational Security Analyst: Nat, focused on the operational aspects of cybersecurity, gave Kongpob a nod of acknowledgment. "Hi Kongpob, glad to have you with us. If you need assistance with day-to-day security operations, I'm here."

" Last but not least is Tina, our Resource Protection Coordinator: Tina, responsible for safeguarding digital resources, smiled warmly.
"Welcome, Kongpob. If there's anything related to resource protection or coordination, I'm at your service."

Kongpob, impressed by the expertise and camaraderie of his team, expressed his gratitude. "Thank you all for the warm welcome. I'm excited to collaborate and contribute to our shared mission of cybersecurity excellence."

As the meeting concluded, the team dispersed with a sense of unity and purpose, ready to face the ever-evolving challenges of the cybersecurity landscape.

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

As soon as the lunch break started - all the prim and proper undersecretaries with fancy titles , gathered in his cabin, around Kong with curious gazes and excited smiles like Kid around mystery box.

" Hi Bossman ! " The pixie cut young omega , a petite girl barely twenty two, with twinkling eyes hurried to his desk. " Can I call you phi?"

Kong nodded " Yes! All of you who are younger than me can call me Phi Kong. No need for formalities. "

"Phi Kong, is that your welcome package?" Tina curiously eyed the package " Dang! They really went all out with yours!"

Kongpob smiled "Yeah, it's quite impressive. It's first of a kind I have eecieved in my 9 years experience. Got a bit confused about the heat pills and diffuser, though."

Nat, the tall , lean man with curly hairs laughed "Oh, those! I thought I was the only one. They're harmless and very benefecial, Khun, trust me. You'll get used to the quirks around here."

"Remember my first day?" Piya laughed remembering " They gave me a little plant, and I managed to spill water on my desk trying to water it. Classic me!"

Kongpob too chuckled. Piya's enthusiasm was contagious.
"I guess I should be grateful for the lack of water-related challenges today."

Natt smiled " You should postpone your thankfulness until you really get to know our resident Mischief Maven Pim."

" I'm not that bad" Pim whined " Don't ruin my image infront of Boss man. "

" Oh come on. Own it you are most mischievous of the lot" Piya patted her back " Own it! You even have a formal award for that! "

" You know what Phi... She once accidentally sent a mass email with cat memes to the entire company." Tina whispered .

Kongpob was amused"Cat memes? I'm definitely looking forward to that!"

Piya shook her head " Its not just cat memes phi. That was most innocuos of her pranks.
Once she managed to subtly alter the email signatures of a few colleagues including Khun Arthit. Instead of the usual professional titles, they found whimsical titles.
Our finance head became Master of Coffee Breaks and Phi Prem became-Office Plant Whisperer. Khun Arthit was Boss Manatee.
' Sir Grumps-a-lot' almost had our head."

" Sir Grumps a lot ? Who is this ? " Kong asked.

Nat elbowed Piya, who bit her lip, eyes. Wide, looking apologetically at Kong.

" No...Seriously, tell me who is it ? "

Piya stole a quick glance towards Arthit's cabin. Kong caught her quick maneuver, and started laughing.
" Oh! That's genius Pim. That name suits him a lot! Like it's tailor made for him. "

" I know right! " Piya instantly lighted up "His other name is alpha Guardian. We call him AG in short. "

Kongg smirked , looking at Arthit busy in some files " If you ask me, Sir Grumps a lot suits more "

" Shh..." Piya pushed him. " Don't say it aloud, we don't know how, but he gets to know all the office gossip somehow."

Kong raised a brow " Really ? "

" Yeah " Nat nodded " Earlier, his name was Boss manatee. Last Christmas party- he asked me " Nat cleared his throat and mimicked Arthit's deep irritated baritone
" Pray tell me, Khun Piwat , From which angle do I look like a marine equivalent of a sloth to you? '

" He did ?" Kong was amused " Then what did you reply ? "

" I didn't. Next week, when the office opened, I submitted my resignation first thing in the morning. But he returned it with the remark I could never forget in my life. "

" Show phi Kong the photo na phi! " Piya was the ever excited bunny.

Nat showed him the picture. Kong saw the ever unmistakable neat rows of Arthit's writing over the envelope

"Dear Nat,

while I find you dearly lacking in creative attempt at marine comparisons. The office could use the 'Calm-a-Llama' presence you bring. So, resigning is not an option.

With evil regards.

Deadline Dementor
AKA
Boss Manatee - (the more of a night-marine-like leader.)

" night-marine - nightmarish! He is quite funny. " Kong remarked.

" He is " Nat smiled, his respect for his boss shining in his eyes. "Every year, we have an annual party at the start of April. Hardworking and innovative employees are given awards and rewards. Everyone thought it was a joke when award was announced for ' Mischief Maven'. For none other than our Pim."

" Khun Arthit had seen how office's stressful environment was lightened and people were more creative and productive in their works because of Pim's pranks. So he almost had an argument with the concerned department to add a prize for her. " Tina explained.

" Now, that's quite unconventional. " Kong remarked.

" It is indeed right! " Nat lightened up " Khun Arthit is a different brand of person altogether. He is no doubt a strict boss but he is fair to us omegas too. At the time of joining we were told that if we do our work honestly, we won't find another company like Siamtech. In two years, I have never had the momemt to doubt those words. "

" True that" All the undersecretaries were nodding.

" Unlike other companies Siamtech Securities sees and values every omega employee's contribution too. Do you know phi, our company has 40% omega employees ? "

Kong was surprised " I didn't "

" If one has talent , phi Arthit doesn't care about their secondary gender. I even heard that he recently hired an omega in business negotiation department after seeing his credentials and interest. Surprisingly thing is, he had come to interview foe post of executive since no one employed him in his desired department for two years straight because" Piya Air quoted " It's an alpha department "

" That is nothing phi. I am one of the most long serving omega employee here. The board almost had a fit when Phi employed me out of twenty five alpha applicants. But that was the easy part. I have seen how hard Phi had fought to provide us with amenities he had thought necessary for us . There is a reason we call him our Alpha Guardian. "

Kong had an unconcious proud smile on his face. That's like his phi Arthit!

" Do you know how much our omega counterparts from other companies envy us? "Pim boasted, her smile was radiant.

Tina grinned "Phi, even your past self will envy your present self when you see our Omega Lounge. You haven't checked it out yet, right? "

" No...I have not. "

" You must phi" Pim insisted "It's like a sanctuary for us. Comfy couches, a well-stocked library, and the best part - unlimited free snacks!"

Natt chuckled " There is a reason, Boss changed your signature to Snack Queen. "

Pim made a face " Don't remind me, he is relentless. I only chamged his title to deadline dementor once and he almost kept changing my official title for a month straight until I begged him to not do it. And can you believe what he said ? "

Kong smiled, "let me guess..." He cleared his throat to mimick his phi " Khun Pim, do you think I have that much free time to go ballistic with stupid names for my employees? "

Pim's eyes rounded with shock " How do you know phi ? Those were his exact words." She sighed " At least, it stopped from that day itself. "

Natt joined " When AG(Arthit) introduced us to our Quiet Room. He said ' Here's a room to give yourselves break from your constant chattering . "

"It's the perfect spot to recharge. Dim lights, soothing music, total zen."

Kongpob was impressed "Sounds like they really prioritize our well-being. What about the gym?"

Piya almost jumped on her feet with excitement "Oh, the OmegaFit Gym is a game-changer. State-of-the-art equipment, fitness classes, and a sauna. I practically live there after work phi!"

"And they organize omega-specific wellness workshops. I attended a stress management one last month. Super helpful!" Natt informed.

"That's impressive." Kong stole a quick glance towards Arthit " I didn't expect such a focus on omega well-being. What else do they have?"

"The lactation room is a godsend for our omega colleagues who have Kids. It's equipped with everything they need for nursing or pumping. "

" Yeah" Nat added "And the Parental Support Program is fantastic. They offer flexible schedules, work-from-home options, and childcare services for omega parents. It really shows the company's commitment to work-life balance."

As Kongpob listened to the list of omega-friendly facilities, his words to Arthit not so long ago.

And that it was just a precautionary clause. So the company won't have an excuse to sack me on the grounds of unprofessionalism."

He remembers how hurt Phi got. He even asked him if Kong he could ever do that to Kong!
Kongpob was so angry that he didn't even care!

Kong looked at the oblivious alpha, engrossed in his work, who didn't even cared for himself enough to eat on time.
Kongpob's eyes teared remembering his stabbing words.

" How long is lunch break? " Kong asked.

" Oh thank you for reminding us ...Boss man! " Piya said apologetically "We wasted so much of your lunch time with our talks. Fortunately, we still have half an hour. Would you like to come to staff cafetaria with us ?"

" Yeah...its our treat today." Natt added.

Kong looked towards Arthit " Can I take a raincheck today? I just remembered something I have to do. "

" Sure Boss man" Piya chirped " But, tomorrow you will give treat to us."

" Sure thing" Kong smiled.

Knocking on Arthit's door, he entered without waiting to be allowed in.

" I have ordered you lunch...see to it that it's finished. "

" I'm really busy Kong, this file needs to be done within an hour... I will have something after.

" It's just a burger ...won't take long to eat."

Seeing that Kong won't let it go, Arthit nodded " Fine, did you have lunch ? "

" No..."

" Wanna have lunch together? "

" Didn't you say, you are busy right now? Besides my team has invited me to lunch. Their treat. Can't give away the free food! "

Arthit chuckled " Okay. Go ...have fun."

......

Kongpob went straight to parking, keying in his car, he embarked on a mission to procure Arthit's favorite Nomyen brand.

The search took him through three or four milkshops, creating beads of sweat on his forehead. Because first three did not have the brand Arthit liked to drink.

Finally, success was in his hands as he clutched the precious pink milk bottle, ready to return to the office.

Back at the office, Kongpob rushed in, slightly out of breath, completely soaked in sweat but face beaming  with a triumphant smile.

Placing the bottles and other purchases in Arthit's fridge, he took out the stainless steel straw bottle he bought on the way, he washed it and filled with with shaved ice. After pouring a little bit of chilled condensed milk over the shaved ice ( since Arthit liked the drink sweet enough to give cavities), he poured the bottle of nomyen. Covering it with the lid, he laced the steel straw in and knocked Arthit's office door.

Arthit, engrossed in his work,didn't even bother to look up before ordering
" Come in" . It's not like his dragon nose couldn't detect Kongpob's scent. Running to four shops quiet afar from each other, he was dripping sweat- Kong wouldn't be surprised if he was smelly right now.

As soon as Kong entered Arthit's cabin, the chill hit his overheated body like punch in the gut.

" How is your first day going so far? " Arthit asked.

" I told you to keep the personal separate from proffessional " Kong retorted, placing the bottle on his drink. " Here, Sir"

" What is it ? " Arthit asked.

" Poison. " Kong replied , irritated but pasting a smile on his lips. "Enjoy "

Arthit gave equally fake smile amd picked it up " I hope it is atleast delicious."

" I strive to prove true to your expectations." Kong hit back.

Arthit took first sip, delicious sweetness burst on his tongue. It wasn't until his fourth sip that he realised, he was drinking Nomyen (pink milk) .

" Kong! Why did you bring in the office? " Arthit instantly put the bottle down as if it bit him.

Kongpob, sensing Arthit's discomfort, reassured him, "Don't worry, I've been telling everyone that I like Nomyen and all the bottles in the fridge are my stock."

Arthit sighed in relief but couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. "Why do all this? What happened to keeping things professional, Kongpob?"

Kongpob,narrowing his eyes, shot back, "Well, I wasted my lunchtime just to make sure you don't stress out and chew my head off. So, in a way, it's in the company's professional benefit."

Arthit chuckled, "You're impossible, Kong. But thanks for the Nomyen. It's appreciated."

" It's Kongpob or Mr. Suthilak, sir. "

Arthit, taking a playful sip of the Nomyen, looked at Kong . " So, Mr Kongpob Suthilak Sir, You know, you could've just bought any brand. I'm not that picky."

" Its just Kongpob, Sir" Kongpob retorted, " And to answer your question- I prefer to do work of finest quality...even if its choosing a pink milk brand. We wouldn't want you to suffer through a subpar strawberry milk and still chew my head off, right?"

Arthit smirked, "Oh, Just Kongpob Sir! how considerate of you. The hero of the day, saving me from the horrors of mediocre Nomyen."

Kongpob rolled his eyes, "It's just pink milk, Khun Arthit. Don't get too melodramatic about it. And you can call me Just Kongpob no sir please."

Arthit, with a faux offended tone, exclaimed, "You hurt ke Just Kongpob no Sir! Melodramatic? And Me? I'll have you know, Nomyen is a delicate delicacy deserving of the utmost appreciation."

Kongpob rolled his eyes "Utmost appreciation? You sound like a Nomyen connoisseur. Should I expect you to critique its flavor profile next?"

Arthit, feigning seriousness, nodded, "Absolutely. The balance of sweetness and strawberry essence is crucial. Anything less would be an insult to Nomyen enthusiasts everywhere."

Kongpob shook his head, "You're unbelievable. It's just a drink."

Arthit, grinning, replied, "Just a drink? Kong, you clearly underestimate the complexity of the Nomyen experience. Maybe you need a crash course in appreciating the finer things in life."

Kongpob smirked, "Thank you, but I'll pass on that. My taste buds are quite content with the simplicity of regular beverages not sweet enough to stick my lips together. No need for a Nomyen disaster"

Arthit leaned back in his chair, sipping the pink milk with a satisfied expression, "Your loss, Kong. One day, you might realize what you're missing."

"I highly doubt it, Sir. But, if Nomyen ever sponsors your life story, I'll be sure to attend the grand premiere."

" As you wish. " Arthit shrugged, sipping on his treat.

In their bantering, he had focussed on his next retort and had not notice Kong shivering slightly.

" Why are you shivering ? " Arthit asked.

" No, I'm quiet alright sir. "

" Why are you lying? You are clearly shivering ? Do you have fever? Tell me what's wrong."

" Nothing Sir "

" Kong...tell me right now..." Arthit raised his voice.

" What's wrong you ask?" Kongpob glared, teeth clenched " Everything is wrong. what the fuck is this temperature? Do you want to make the visito's ice mummy or what ?
I feel like I'm standing ten feet under glacier.
" Kong closed his eyes, teeth chattering
" I'm positive there would be icicles forming on the roof any second now. Even the core of my bones are chilled and frozen. How the fuck you are not frozen? "

" Oh..." placing the bottle on his desk, Arthit instantly jumped to his feet and frantically switched off every electric application.  " I  am sorry. I didn't realise, Kong"

" You could have just switched the AC off."

Arthit bit his lip " I can't find the remote. " He switched on the lights sheepishly and led Kong to the sofa on the right of his desk.

" It will take some time to get the temperature to normal. " Arthit instantly shrugged his jacket off and placed it on Kongpob's shoulder . " Just few minutes okay. " Arthit soothed rubbing Kong's palms. " I almost forgot you are sensitive to cold."

" Because you didnt bother meeting or talking to me once. "

" I said I'm sorry Kong. Can't you see ? "

" Doesn't cut it. Do you know how long it was? "

" I do. Two years Seven months three weeks two days and four hours thirty eight minutes till you entered my office for the interview. "

" How many seconds ? " Kong asked petulantly .

" what ? "

" How many seconds ?"

" I don't know. didn't count it. " Arthit replied sheepishly.

" You should have. " Kong was feeling petty enough " That heroic answer won't cut it. "

" I know." Arthit started walking away from Kong who had forgotten that they were in office.

" What are you doing? " Kong seethed. " Weren't you sorry just now? "

"Calm down Firewall.  You will know." Arthit took out the extra thermal gloves and socks from his drawers he had stocked for Kong.

He started removing Kongpob's shoes
" What are you doing ? " Kong asked.

" Don't you think you should ask atleast a different question" Arthit teased.

" Shut up " Kong glared. " And tell me what are you doing ?

" Which of your orders do you want me to follow sir Kongpob? To zip my mouth shut or to answer you ? " Arthit asked untying the lace of Kongpob's shoes .

Kong sighed " You are irritating "

Chuckling Arthit took off Kong's shoes and socks, rubbing Kong's feet , he slipped on two socks on each of Kongpob's feet.

" Here...hold this " Arthit gave him small hand warmer pouches. " After you are a bit more warm...place your feet on this warm mat. "

" Why do you have all these things in your office ? "

Arthit who had went to take something out of his drawer, came back with a band aid.

" Do you really want the answer? " Arthit asked, " it hasn't even been a day and you already have paper cuts on your thumb. "

" They aren't even hurting. "

" Really? " Arthit asked applying the band aid " I remember someone crying for an hour because of a paper cut. "

" I was a kid..and it was a deep cut" Kong  glared. " And I didn't cry for an hour"

Arthit rolled his eyes. " Sure"

" I didn't " Kong insisted.

Arthit just smirked. Irritating Kong was easiest and it worked well enough to take his mind away from the pain.

Someone knocked on the door, Kong saw  Arthit opening the door to just a crack and recieving whatever the person brought.

" Here...hot chocolate..."

" When did you order it ? "

Arthit smirked " Magic. "

Sitting beside Kong on the sofa, Arthit wrapped his arms around Kong. Taking in the soothing scent to calm down his panicked heart.

" What are you doing ? " Kong asked.

" You like me hugging you tight whenever you are cold." Arthit replied simply.

" I know. But we are in office.What if someone will see you like this? What will they think ?"

"I'm taking care of my friend. Why should I care how their mind works? "

" I'm your employee right now. And I told you to keep it proffessional. "

"It has proffessional benefits too. You are my secretary, very crucial to my working. I can't risk you being out of commission because of bad health."

" Phi Thit" the endearment slipped out Kong's mouth " I am serious. There will be gossip. "

Arthit was rejoiced to hear Phi from Kongpob's mouth after so long but he did not bother reminding Kong about his slip of tongue.

" I just offered you a seat...some socks I had lying in my drawer and a hot chocolate. I would do that for any of my employee. " Arthit locked the cabin with the remote and texted the staff not to disturb him " No one will come here. Rest your worries now "

" Even you agree you wouldn't hug just anyone. I should not be here...like this."

"I won't. But you are not just anyone and nothing you could do would change that so I advise you just enjoy your hot chocolate."

" This is not right phi."

" If I were at your place. Then wouldn't you do the same for me ? "

Kong nodded. " I would. "

" Then I am allowed to do it too. "

" You are still not forgiven"

" I know" Arthit rubbed Kong's back who snuggled more in to Arthit.

Kong quietly sipped on his milk chocolate.

"don't skip your meals. " Arthit said "This is an order from your Boss. "

Kong twisted his neck, to look in to Arthit's eyes " Same to you."

" Are you saying, you are my Boss, Just Kongpob Sir ? " Arthit teased.

" You are calling me Sir ...so " Kong smiled mischievously.

Both chuckled.

"This is just a time stop .  We will still be proffessional." Kong said strictly.

" Sure " Arthit mumbled, hugging Kong tight.

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

A/N : Those of you waiting for best friend forever chapter. Next update is tomorrow : )

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