Kong didn't meet his eyes in the mirror, as he stood there in front of the sink. His gaze fixated on the aggressive marks on his neck and collarbone. Kongpob swallowed, going through a hassle. Embarrassed and humiliated. Worried and lost. In love and hurt. He no longer took pride in having Arthit's claim. His boyfriend has clearly stated he isn't worth it. The theory he created out of his insecurities finally got sanctioned.

When Kongpob woke up, he wasn’t surprised to find that Arthit was absent. Despite the initial shock, Kongpob realized that he wasn't feeling sad or upset about it. It was as if Arthit's nonappearance was expected, almost natural. He recollected last night's events. Arthit was so soft with him. Handled him with such devotion. But none of it was true. In the end, Arthit made him realize how they are different. How he is just another of his toys. In the end, Arthit is for someone far from Kongpob’s reach. His boyfriend too like all those people, was on a mission to remind them how they can't be together. Why they shouldn't be together.

His silent tears accumulated down his chin, and with no intention to rub them away, he leaned down, gripping the edge of the sink, balancing himself. And blaming himself. All of it was his fault, like always, if only he could've stopped talking back to Arthit. Then, maybe Arthit would still want him. Maybe he indeed was forgetting his place. So, apparently, Arthit’s words - no matter how harsh - were true. Kong was forgetting his value and Arthit only reminded him of that. Instead of feeling angry, Kong is glad that Arthit has helped him once more. Arthit prefers submission, not the arrogant backfires. Kongpob will ask for forgiveness, like always. For, nothing makes sense anymore without his love for Arthit.

He could not help but dread how everything was going to change once he stepped out of the bathroom. Maybe Arthit's absence was one of the signals, that Kong was not needed anymore. That he should leave now. He cursed himself for not shutting his mouth. Why does he always find a way to aggravate Arthit? Kongpob is surprised by his behavior while being with Arthit, he never used to talk back to anyone. Maybe, that was the reason Arthit was angry at him. Arthit remained the same but Kongpob was shifting off his kind nature. Maybe, if he could go back to his previous self, then, Arthit might not throw him away.

However, he decided not to waste more of Arthit's time and to quickly use his appliances as he washed himself. His heart dropped as he thought of this possibly being the last time. Last time here in Arthit's apartment and life.

Kongpob feels the ground swallowing him down when he finds some other person instead of Arthit. Working in the kitchen as if he owned the place. By the ironed black suit, it was obvious that he wasn't some caretaker. But Kong had other worries. His eyes scanned on all four sides, as he rushed into the living room only to find it devoid of Arthit too. The atmosphere chilled his shivering body. His stomach churned and twisted, as the dread invaded his thoughts once more.

“You don't have to be scared of me…” Kong heard the friendly voice right behind him. He twirled in his place. “Arthit asked me to serve you breakfast and drop you off for the classes.”

If not for being consumed in his worries, Kongpob would've noticed how handsome the man is. Tall and muscled. In perfect proportion. His eyes were dark and his face well sculpted. The image of the man was sent to the back of his retina as the face of the boy he loves so much appeared in front of him. Almost staking his claim even with his absence.

Kongpob didn’t notice how he was coping until he realized the thrashing of his head. The meaning behind those words is getting clearer and clearer. He hated it. “I want P’Arthit.” If Arthit was with him, he would’ve admired how cute this tantrum was.

“Thanks for asking…” The man says, rolling his eyes. His practice of five minutes to look intimidating went in vain. He turned on his heels, heading back towards the kitchen counter. “I'm Jey.” He decided not to add ‘If you care’ because the child seemed polite and not arrogant one like he imagined. Even though his words were ignored, the vibe released from Kongpob was polite in itself.

This man, Jey, might be his only anchor at this moment. Kongpob has to hold onto him. So he followed his steps. “I want P'Arthit… Where is he?”

Jey placed the ham and cheese sandwich on the plate and looked up, only to be taken aback by a tear-streaked face staring back at him. He couldn't help but feel a sense of confusion as he looked at the person in front of him. "Honestly... I don't know..." he trailed off, wondering what could have caused such an emotional reaction. "What... are you crying? For that little shit?" he asked incredulously, unable to understand why someone would be so upset over something seemingly insignificant.

But, now that the ever-so-shitty Arthit Rojnapat entrusted him with the care of the young boy, he wondered if the child held a special significance to Arthit. He looked at Kongpob from head to toe, and his want for Arthit didn't go unnoticed. He assisted Kong on the chair, getting him a glass of water.

With a parched throat, Kongpob desperately chugged down the water, struggling to swallow it without choking. His shivering hands held the glass as steady as possible. It is suffocating without Arthit. Will he ever see him again? Last night, Kong didn't even speak to him properly. Gave Arthit a cold shoulder without realizing it.

Jey looks at him in question. What is happening? He could hardly digest the fact that Arthit indeed had brought someone over. And asked Jey to look after the person. With detailed warnings and detailed routine of Kong's. He could only summarise this it could either mean Arthit has been drugged or he hurt his head. Because nowhere in this life has the spoiled brat had a change of heart.

Kongpob lifts his head, assaulting his bottom lip. Blinking through his red swollen eyes he gulps in embarrassment.

“Who are you, boy? You can't possibly be the boyfriend he claims to have.” Jey frowns deeply, leaning forward on the counter. Such cool behavior behind a dashing personality suits him. “Has he kidnapped you?”

Contrary to the situation Kongpob found himself smiling softly. He gently shakes his head. He liked Jey. He liked the idea that Arthit had someone like Jey around him. And he liked that Arthit still thought of him as his boyfriend. That they hadn't yet broken up as Kong had doubted all night.

“Where's he?” Kongpob asks once again, tilting his head. Hoping for a positive response.

Jey grumbles loudly. Dropping his head on his folded arms. “Stop asking that question… Why do you even want him… Why would you want to shatter the peaceful ambiance?”

Kong let his head fall as he opened and closed his mouth. “I… Want to apologize for my wrong behavior last night… He's angry and it's all my fault.”

From what Jey remembers, Arthit was anything but angry this morning. Rather lost and hopelessly worried. Something was keeping him on edge. Kongpob’s confession was bland. If Arthit had been mad at Kongpob, Jey is certain Kong wouldn’t even be allowed to stay in his house. The frown didn’t disappear from his face. He cleared his throat. “Whatever you have going on… Discuss it later… We need to take you for the lectures…”

Kongpob didn’t want to leave. Scared shitless. Thinking this might be the last time he will be here. “Can we stay a few more minutes?”

Jey gave him a once-over. Straightening and crossing his arms over his chest. “If you think, Arthit will be coming… You better brace yourself…”

The words did not settle well Kong. His heart is clenching and clenching. The pain is unbearable. He wanted to change how straightforward Jey is.   

Kongpob was silent throughout the ride. Each second called for bundles of insecurities in his mind. He opened his LINE to check for any messages from Arthit. The disappointment grew a hundred times stronger. The churning of his stomach continued. And he knows the uneasiness couldn't settle until he was back in Arthits arms.

“I’ll be here by the time you are done… Arthit told me he has already saved my number in your contacts… So don’t hesitate to call me whenever…” Jey unlocked the door. Stepping out he walked to the other side, Pulling the door open for Kongpob. He sighed shaking his head, following clear instructions by Arthit. “And do not switch your phone off under any circumstances… That’s an order.”

Without Arthit everything felt dry and wrong. He didn’t like Jey taking Arthit’s place one bit. He wanted to be wrapped in Arthit’s arms as they walked to his classroom. Where, before entering he is kissed senselessly. He didn’t feel any more offended by Arthit’s words last night. He had long forgotten about it. But he can’t handle this. Not his absence.

“I can go by myself,” Kongpob mumbles gently. His eyes were on his dragging feet.

Jey walked beside him. Looking everywhere his eyes could scan. “And have myself killed? No thanks.”

“Will he come here?” Kongpob knew what the answer might be.

“I wouldn’t know even if he did…” Jey says. “He might be observing us too… We can't be sure though.”

Kongpob stopped in his tracks. Snapping his gaze at Jey. His nerves were ticking. “If you know something… Why aren't you telling me?”

“I have no idea… I’m just as innocent as you.” Jey shrugs his shoulder. As if it is the most obvious thing to say. And Kongpob must believe him.

There is nothing more for Kongpob to say. He thanks Jey before heading inside his class. He could hope that Arthit will be coming for him. And he doesn't have to ride back with Jey. Kongpob blinks looking at his empty seat beside Tew, biting his lips, contemplating whether to sit next to him or not. Considering how much of a jerk he's been to Tew. How much of a jerk he's been to both of them. A sudden guilt settles inside him, gulping he opens his mouth. But Tew doesn't glance at him, strictly turning his face on the other side. As if Kongpob's mere look is loathsome to him.

“Tew…” Kongpob speaks. His voice is low and hoarse from all the crying. The quick change in Tew’s composure makes him understand at least he is listening. Kong raises his hand to touch his friend. “I am sorry for my behavior.”

Tew snapped a glare his way. He was clenching his jaw. It wasn't that he was upset with Kong. But he could've at least told his boyfriend to mind his business and not to meddle while they were sharing the little time they get nowadays. It couldn't have been that difficult of a task, could it? “You don't need to apologize to me… We are no one.”

“Why are you saying such a thing?” Kongpob trembles, shifting on his feet. “You said we’re friends so why?”

“That isn't how you treated me yesterday!” Tew yelled. Forgetting they weren't alone, as their classmates had their attention on them. He didn't care anymore. “That isn't how you treat your friends, Kongpob…” He snapped again. “Arthit is emotionless, Kong… But I'm not… I feel hurt each time you neglect that I'm with you… And walk away as if am just a random person who you don’t give a shit about.”

Kongpob’s lips quiver. Remembering how he treated the only person other than Arthit who stood by him. The tightness in his throat hurt him. “I am really sorry.”

Tew was hurt for real. He doesn’t wish to blame Kongpob but there is a limit to which Tew can tolerate his dishonor. If he doesn’t matter to Kongpob then he might as well make sure Kong will not have to keep with him.

“We know you are going to repeat this… Even without your knowledge… I don’t have any idea what is happening between the two of you… But mind you this isn’t a healthy relationship.” Tew looked at him sincerely. “And then again, it is of no use talking some sense into you, because one word from Arthit and you are ready to crawl to him.” Tew grabbed his bag and notes. Sitting on the farthest seat away from his usual one.

Kongpob was no more apologetic towards Tew. He has no right to describe their relationship. And he has absolutely no right to speak ill about Arthit when he clearly has no idea how good Arthit actually is. Maybe his boyfriend is correct, Tew is playing with him. Kongpob glanced at him once, before taking his seat. Good with his life, now he has one new problem.

He expected numerous scenarios while waiting for his lectures to end and he returns to Arthit's apartment while Jey takes him back, but to find the person who Kongpob was deprived of all day,  waiting for him by his car, all the while continuing to answer Jey's obvious questions, was not among them. A cry of happiness erupted from his throat as he took one step, two steps, and then dashed into Arthit's arms.

It didn't take him long to realize it wasn't his imagination. The pair of strong hands quickly and tightly enveloped him. And the throaty chuckle that rumbled in his ear. He breathed a sigh of relief nuzzling in Arthit's crook. Gripping him tighter around his neck. He heard Jey and Arthit exchanging a few more words. He couldn't care though. He received what he wanted.

“Baby…” Arthit cradled the soft body. Sniffling his shoulder. “I missed you… Let me see your face.”

There wasn't a level to measure one's desire for something. Arthit's craziness for Kongpob was an example. He expected rejection. But Kong surprised him yet another time. Taking shelter in his embrace as if Arthit didn't degrade his pride. But then again that is how Kongpob is for Arthit to take control of.

Arthit lowered him down, though still holding him close. He leaned down kissing Kong's forehead and teary eyes. The sight was unbearable for his heart. Arthit grabbed his nape, tilting his head. Before working their lips together. It was determined to be slow as he adjusted to Kong's shy movements. Feeling the tears of his precious flower. God, Arthit wanted to keep him away from everything.

Kongpob moaned against the firm, soft lips. Blinking dazedly. His lips burning and quivering. “I thought… Thought that you wouldn't want me anymore.”

Arthit planted a series of pecks on his face. Kissing his tears. He gently tucked back the little locks that disturbed Kongpob’s serene face. “You know that is never gonna happen, Lily.”

Arthit ran his eyes over the area, and he didn't want Kongpob to be an open environment. To be lurked by others' eyes. He kissed his forehead briefly and swiped him in his arms. Arthit opened the car door and settled behind the steering wheel. Kongpob refused to let go of Arthit, as he adjusted in his lap. His sweet blue eyes melted Arthit's coldness. He snuggled into Arthit again. Drowning in Arthit's vigorous scent. 

“Where were you, Phi?” Kongpob sniffled. Trembling from head to toe. Wanting to disappear in Arthit. “I thought I won't be able to see you again… I thought…”

“Kongpob…” Arthit says in his authoritative voice. “Do you even understand when I say that you are mine… And no one is ever going to have the liberty to even think about you.”

“I know…” Kongpob blushed, pulling back and kissing Arthit's chin. “But I misbehaved last night and ended up infuriating you.” He pecked his lips. Loving Arthit’s mouth. “I'm very sorry, P'Arthit.”

“It's okay now… We are fine.” Arthit kissed the corner of his mouth. “We always are fine, Lily.”

Arthit loved how adorable this boy was. How beautiful. How polite. How Arthit’s.

“But if…” Kongpob says with utter devotion. It wasn’t a sudden decision, he long thought about what he wanted from Arthit. “If I offend you somehow once again…” Kongpob chews on his lips, trying to find courage. “You can lock me in your room as long as you want.”

Arthit goes blank for a minute. The words running through each of his veins to his brain. He was warm all of a sudden. Kongpob needs to stop putting it that way, Arthit could literally do that to him. But that's what Kongpob wants too. So there is no space for hesitation. He cupped his cheek, kissing his nose. Breathing him deep.

“Maybe I should do that.” Arthit rumbles in joy. Tracing his lips on Kong's neck. Biting the skin softly. “My sweet Kongpob… Only mine.”

“P'Arthit…” He says bitterly. Following Arthit’s wants. “I don't like when you aren't around… Why did you leave me alone… Where did you go?”

The younger one seemed to not realize how much he was asking. Until Arthit runs his knuckles on Kong's cheek. Calming him. Arthit is elated under the feeling of submission. As he crooned softly. Nudging his nose in Kong's cheek. He could hear their heartbeats in the subtle silence.

“I want to lock you.” Arthit breathed heavily. His thumb caressed Kong's lips. “So bad.” His other hand circled Kong's waist. “So far away… Only for my eyes to adore you.”

Kongpob wriggles. Blushing. And intimidated under Arthit's determined stare. Avoiding the hazel eyes. He trembled again, slumping his shoulders, when Arthit undid his tie, and then the first four buttons. The touch of Arthit ignited something in his body as he snuggled his face against Arthit's neck. Gasping for breath. His body was warm and melted when Arthit caressed his chest. Feeling every inch of Kong's softness.

“Can you imagine?” Arthit caressed around his perked-up nipple. The shuddering in his arms excited him more. “My cuddly Kong, in our house, living with his P'Arthit, all of the time in his arms… So alluring, so sexy, all for P’Arthit to consume.”

Kongpob clawed Arthit's collar. Moaning and shuddering some more. His sensitive bud pressed between the gap of Arthit's first two fingers.

“Kongpob…” Arthit called in his own daze. Kissing his hair. “You aren't going back to their house.”

Kong jumped back. More in relief than in shock. Arthit had to control himself from gobbling those red lips. He smiled when Kong looked down at his hand on Kong's chest, flushing profusely. His dick hardened at the sight of Kong's disappointed eyes when he pulled his hand back. He felt so fucking turned on, he grabbed his Lily still, lowered his head, and he lapped his tongue on the beautiful bud.

It was more intimate than Kong had  imagined. His mouth opened in a silent moan as he curled his fingers in Arthit's perfectly gelled locks. Pulling the warmth more to himself. Momentarily forgetting the important matter at hand.

Arthit licked his way up. Kissing Kong’s collarbone. Sinking his teeth where he found the fluffiness. “Did you hear me?”

That pulled Kong out of his trance. He blinked rapidly, looking down at Arthit. The tan skin still warming up but better than before. Kong cutely tilted his head which made Arthit suck a breath as he crashed his lips on Kong’s. Cursing to himself. There’s no doubt he made the correct decision.

The worries eating him up from the morning now dissipating with Arthit’s words and actions. Kong need not have asked, Arthit must've talked with his Uncle, and he felt so good deeply. He cried against Arthit’s lips. Keeping up with the firmer moves. Smiling and sobbing.

Tew was correct, Arthit just had to say and Kongpob would crawl to him. Without thinking. Always. The things he will do for Arthit have no measure either. If Arthit wants him to not go back there, he wouldn't. Now he will not question Arthit’s decision ever. He learned some bitter consequences of opening his mouth where it wasn't needed.

“Okay…” Kongpob nods through his tears. Smiling and nudging their noses. He kissed Arthit’s dimple deeply. Hugging his neck. “If that’s what you want P’Arthit.”