Dedicated to Messy_bird
Sorry for the long wait, dear

Hope you enjoy ❤️

P.S. a really long chapter ahead

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"Kongpob! It's time!"

Kongpob took a deep breath, staring at himself in the large, dirty mirror in front of him. Making sure he looked 'fine' he turned around and stepped out of the makeup room. Clad in tight-fit leather jeans and a black lace shirt. His hair styled to the side, and his face was decorated with makeup supplies that his senior had put on him. With crystals glued on the corner of his eyes, and eyeliner under his eyes.

Just like any other day in his life, he stepped into the noisy club where he worked and lived. Clenching and unclenching his palms he followed the lady in front of him who he had known since he entered the place. He blinked his eyes as the light finally hit his eyes as they stepped into the club, noisy and filled with people of different classes, bartenders busy serving the customers. It was an extremely busy day.

"We're gonna get a lot of clients today," Martha, the lady in front of him whispered to him excitedly and Kongpob just smiled in return, even after all these years he's not sure how to reply to conversations like this.

"Our time to shine," Martha straightened her shoulders, a smirk on her lips. Kongpob took a deep breath before walking over to the stage where the other men with instruments were ready.

He gave a small smile to everyone while they raised their thumbs at him, nodding their heads. As soon as he was seen on the stage the crowd's attention was on him and the women who, including Martha, were taking their positions down the stage. Their revealing, sparkling clothes distracting the people.

Kongpob took his position in the middle of the stage, clutching onto the mic stand in front of him, he adjusted the mic to his height. Turning to the men behind him he gave a thumbs up and the instruments started to make sounds behind him.

Been there, done that, messed around
I'm having fun, don't put me down
I'll never let you sweep me off my feet
I won't let you in again
The messages I've tried to send
My information's just not going in

Kongpob watched the women dance and grab onto handsome men in the crowd as he continued to sing, not forgetting the pairs of eyes that were on him too. But he was used to it, he had learned to ignore them.

It's been 3 years since he started working as a singer for the club. He had no other choice but to work there. At first, the owner tried to lure him into joining the men in the club because according to them his body would do the work better but he wasn't going for that. He was just almost 19 back then. The only asset he had was his voice, he knew to sing pretty well. And that's what he did. He talked it out with the owner, begged the big man and finally he was allowed to be the singer at the club, with some conditions.

Been there, done that messed around
I'm having fun, don't put me down
I'll never let you sweep me off my feet

This time, baby, I'll be bulletproof
This time, baby, I'll be bulletproof

Kongpob shifted on his foot, moving his posture as he sang, his eyes wandering around the club, blue lights falling on him. Ignoring the hungry eyes he felt on himself.

When he started to work at the club, the owner, the big man Raph, gave him space to stay at the small building behind the club. A small, single room with a bathroom, a bed, a cupboard, and a fridge. That's it. And Kongpob was more than happy with what he got because at that time he had no place to stay and to have a place to sleep at night was a blessing. It was a dirty building though, with drunkards and other people, both men and women, doing dirty business. But Kongpob found peace in the small space he had, he brought his character into the place he stayed. He loved it.

He was given conditions while working at the club. He wasn't allowed to choose what he would wear and look like for the night during his performance, the 'workers' there would choose it for him. And though Kongpob felt uncomfortable in them he had no choice. And no one would be responsible if any customers try to hit on him. So, Kongpob always tried to protect himself.

Not only does he sing at the club, but at day time he would work as the waiter/bartender at the club, usually not as crowded as the night. He has to pay rent for his room and buy food and other essentials. He wants to gather enough money so that one day he can study in college, he didn't care at which age he'll be able to do that.

Screams and squeals spread across the club as he finished singing, smiling shyly he positioned himself to sing the next song on the list. Some of the women who entered with him had already disappeared after getting their catch for the day. Usually, it has always been him, left alone to go back to his room. Others were always 'occupied'.

Signaling the men behind him Kongpob strapped his foot, getting into the rhythm, holding onto the mic as he sang. One of his favorite songs, a song which contained the hope in his life, which he doubted would become a reality but still keeps hope for it.

I wanna be the one you call,
every day and night
Are you gonna be the one who's always gonna treat me right?

Kongpob's eyes fell on a man in the crowd, who immediately send a kiss on his way, shivering and feeling uneasy. He shifted his gaze away from the crowd, until a man sitting by the end caught his attention, far behind the crowd having his drink on the couch with a few other friends, the table in front filled with drinks and food.

And when we get together
turning down the lights
Need you 100, need you 100 percent and

For a moment Kongpob thought he might forget his song but he caught up with it as he broke his gaze from the man who was staring back at him, maybe he was delusional but at the moment he felt like being watched by that man.

Finding courage once again he raised his gaze to meet the man's who hasn't waivered his stare from him. Kongpob gulped between his singing. The piercing strong stare was different from other eyes that he had always felt on him.

I wanna be the one you tell
all your friends about
Baby, I'll be the one you just can't do without
You gotta give me everything, baby,
ain't no doubt
Give me 100, need you 100 percent

Kongpob blinked, somehow feeling the song deeper than he used to. Somehow he couldn't break contact with those eyes, reflecting the light of the club. The pale face and jelled hair, clad in a maroon suit with a black undershirt. The way those milky fingers held the glass of whisky, playing with it as the man's gaze continued to pierce into him.

The man broke their gaze as the male beside him interrupted their so-called 'staring contest ', Kongpob felt disappointed and relieved. What was even going on with him?

You gotta give me everything,
baby ain't no doubt
Give me 100, need you 100 percent
Need you 100, need you 100 percent

As he sang the closing notes the man's eyes shifted to him again, not that Kongpob was continuously staring at the man, he just coincidentally felt those eyes on him once again. He ended his notes, staring into those heart-fluttering pair of orbs.

The night felt longer than it used to for Kongpob, he sang four more songs while his eyes always searched for those pair of eyes, the man in maroon suit. He was disappointed when the said man disappeared during his fourth song of the night, he tried to search amongst the crowd for him but he couldn't even find a glimpse of that man. He no longer felt those eyes on him, bringing a feeling that felt strange to him.

By the end of his work time, Kongpob was a little disappointed because he couldn't find that particular maroon suit guy anywhere. Maybe the guy has left, Kongpob knows he shouldn't feel like this about a guy with who he just locked eyes that night. But he couldn't help it. His heart beat faster when their eyes locked and Kongpob enjoyed singing the songs staring into those eyes, not that he didn't enjoy it before but tonight was different. That man had caught his attention.

The stage lights were turned off as the last song of the night came to an end. Kongpob hurriedly bid bye to his team before rushing to the makeup room to change his clothes and remove his makeup so that he could go back to his room. Not before packing some leftover food from the club's kitchen so that he could have his late-night dinner.

"Are you guys for real?" Kongpob mumbled to himself as he tried to open the door of the makeup room.

He shut his eyes close as he heard noises from inside. Definitely a familiar kind of noise from two people who would lock up themselves inside a room.

Now he has to go back to his room wearing the clothes he had on and the makeup on his face. Sighing he made his way to the kitchen to pack some food.

Walking into the crowd, praying that no one would recognize him, not that it is possible with the people being engrossed in partying under the dim lights.

He greeted the staff in the kitchen, the head chef who was a good friend of his had already packed his food, which he was handed. He quickly bid bye to the chef before stepping out. Making his way through the side, away from the crowd. Trying to leave through the backside of the club.

"Hey, beautiful."

Kongpob froze in his spot. Staring at the man in front of him, leaning on the wall. He looked around, trying to find a way to get away from the man. There weren't many people at this side of the club and the ones who were there were already occupied with their partners for the night.

"I heard you sing up there, damn you were good!" The man stepped forward, and Kongpob's eyes immediately widened. He shifted his gaze away from the man and stepped forward, trying to walk past the man.

The man rolled his eyes at the other before grasping the other's arm and pulling him towards him.

"L-Leave me," Kongpob tried to push the hand away from his arm.

The man tilted his head, smiling wickedly. Kongpob felt like throwing up when the strong smell of alcohol hit his nose from the man in front of him.

"Would you mind coming with me and giving me a special treat  with your voice?"

Kongpob gulped, his eyes wide. He shook his head, struggling to get free from the grip but the man had a strong hold even when he was too drunk.

"Leave me!" Kongpob shouted, the package of his dinner already on the floor while he pushed the man away from him and tried to get free.

"Know your place, boy! I will pay you well," the man buried his face into his neck and Kongpob felt disgusted as he used his free hand to push the head away from his skin. The action exasperating the man.

"How dare you!?" The man grumbled, he reached forward and gripped Kongpob's hair in his palms.

Kongpob cried, reaching over to the hand in his hair, trying to get his hair free from the grip. His eyes started to glisten as tears formed in the corner of his eyes, "Please, leave me!"

"You pushed me away, you deserve to serve me, beautiful." Kongpob shut his eyes and crunched his nose as the nasty smell hit his face.

"What is going on here!?"

Kongpob's eyes snapped open as he heard a foreign voice behind him. He couldn't see who it was since he was facing his back to the man.

"Go away, I'm dealing with him tonight." The man who held him said, glaring at the man past his shoulder.

"This doesn't seem right to me though."

Kongpob sighed in relief, thankful that the other male could sense it. Most of the time people wouldn't even care to check on what unfair actions are taking place to strangers. They just turn blind eye to others who actually need some help.

The grumpy man turned Kongpob around by his hair, pulling him to the latter. The action caused pain in his head and made him wince.

"I warn you, buddy, leave him."

Kongpob's eyes widened in surprise, staring into the familiar pair of dark orbs he had met at the club. The eyes that captivated his thoughts during his singing that night. The maroon suit was now gone, the black shirt he had worn under the suit now covering his upper body which was tucked inside the maroon pants.

"And who are you to order me?" The man behind him hissed in anger.

Kongpob gulped, his pain evident on his face. He begged the man to his rescue with his eyes when the latter turned his gaze to him. For a second he saw the eyes soften when staring into his but then turn darker and scarier as the man stepped forward.

Everything felt like a flash of light for Kongpob as he stood there as if in a dream, stunned as the man to his rescue punched the guy who held him.

Kongpob watched with surprise, relief, and fear as the man in the black shirt kicked and punched the guy who was now begging for the other to stop.

"Don't you dare come near him again!" The man glared at the guy and shouted right into his face.

The guy nodded, feeling his head spinning and throbbing, the alcohol in his system not helping his condition.

The man scoffed before releasing his grip on the guy's collar making him fall on the floor, groaning. The man cared less about it as he turned around and made his way to Kongpob.

"Hey, are you ok?"

Kongpob blinked, flinching when he felt a hand on his shoulder. The man immediately pulled his hand away.

"Sorry, I was just checking on you," the man gave an apologetic look at the shorter male in front of him.

"I-I'm sorry," Kongpob cleared his throat, staring down at his feet. "I was just startled."

"Hey, it's fine. I'm sorry that happened to you."

Kongpob looked up, trying to force a smile he nodded his head, this wasn't the first time it happened to him. Working at the club had its cons. But now, his focus on the man, he noticed that the man who caught his attention, the eyes that made his heart beat faster glowed hazel up close.

"It's ok, this is not the first time."

The man wanted to ask further about what Kongpob said but he restrained himself. He watched closely as Kongpob walked towards the package on the ground, opening it to find spilled food. He watched the other's shoulders fall and a deep sigh escape his lips.

"Is everything alright?" The man inquired.

Kongpob massaged his forehead as he stood up, forcing a smile as he turned to face the stranger."Y-Yeah, it's good. Thank you for your help, I should leave."

The man raised an eyebrow, "But I guess that was your food?"

Scratching his head Kongpob replied, "Hmm...yeah, it's my dinner. I guess I will have to buy a new one."

The latter doesn't know what got into him but he wanted to help the singer who caught his attention that night.

"I'll buy you dinner, let's go inside. I'll order food."

Kongpob immediately shook his head, "N-No thanks, I don't want to eat here. It's- It's uncomfortable."

The stranger nodded understandingly, "Sure, let's go out then."

"But-"

"No excuses, I am taking you out. Just wait a minute for me, I'll have to inform my friends that I'm leaving."

Kongpob's eyes widened, "Please, you don't have to bother yourse-"

"It's my choice," the man pocketed his hands, giving Kongpob a persistent gaze."So let me be."

Kongpob nodded his head, feeling butterflies flutter in the pit of his stomach as the latter gave a polite smile to him. The dimple on the latter's cheek caught his attention before he saw the stranger walk away.

He realized that he has started to build a small crush - maybe not small, but anyway - on the stranger. He barely knew him, not that it is necessary to have a crush on sight with another person.

This was something new, he never thought to find himself in such a position after his past relationship. No one caught his attention. Better to say that he didn't want to trust another person after what he has experienced.

"Let's go?"

Kongpob was shaken out of his thoughts by the voice of the familiar man. He looked up at the latter man and smiled, nodding his head.

"So, do you have any suggestions? Which restaurant is good here?" The man asks as they walk out of the club.

"Hmm... I'm not sure, but there is a food stall a few blocks away and the food there is delicious!" Kongpob somehow found himself excited as he mentioned his favorite spot.

The other male chuckled, "Ok then, the food stall it is."

Kongpob followed the taller male, just imagining walking along with the other male was giving him goosebumps. In a good way that is.

"Wait, we're going in your car?" Kongpob suddenly asked when he realized they walked into the parking lot and the other male had taken a  key out of his pocket.

The man turned to face Kongpob, raising an eyebrow, "Yeah? How are we supposed to go there then?"

"I-Khun, I think I'll take a walk to the stall," Kongpob murmured as he stared at the car Arthit approached. It looked really expensive. He has only seen cars like that in the media and on the roads.

"Just hop in! Why are you so reluctant? I assure you that I won't harm you."

Kongpob blushed when he found the other male smiling slyly at him, teasing him yet he felt somewhat safe to go with the guy.

They got inside the car the very second. Kongpob took extra cautious steps and movements inside the car as he looked around the luxurious space. He felt as if he was getting suffocated. He had never gotten inside a car in his life.

"By the way, my name's Arthit." The man introduced himself as he started the engine of the car, giving a polite smile to the man beside him.

The latter smiled, "I'm Kongpob, it's nice to meet you Khun Arthit."

"Nice to meet you too, Khun. So, that's how you got the stage name KS?"

"Yeah, KS stands for Kongpob Suttilak." He was a little surprised to know that the other male knew his stage name but then he remembered that Arthit had seen him perform.

"Have to say that you're a beautiful singer, your voice is perfection," Arthit complimented the latter making Kong blush.

It wasn't the first time that Kongpob had heard such compliments but it was a whole different scenario with men trying to get their way with him but this, this was different. He felt shy and genuinely appreciated for his talent.

"Thank you," Kongpob whispered back, somehow feeling himself relax in his seat. His eyes stole glances at the peculiar man beside him.

Once they arrived at the food stall Arthit parked the car at the side and unbuckled his seatbelt.

"Aren't you coming?" He asked when he noticed the singer hesitantly looking around, seatbelt still on him.

"I-Do you mind ordering a takeout, please? I don't want to get out like this," Kongpob pointed at his face which still had makeup and crystals stuck on his skin.

"You look amazing to me," Arthit absentmindedly muttered leaving Kongpob to gasp at the words, his eyes wide.

"I-I meant," Arthit cleared his throat, realizing what he had uttered. "I meant you look presentable and amazing, but if it's uncomfortable for you I'll order takeout. That's fine?"

Kongpob nodded, with a tiny smile on his lips, "Yeah, thank you."

The singer watched as Arthit stepped out of the car after asking what he wanted for dinner. Kongpob let out a huge sigh, covering his face.

Kongpob never thought that a day would come when he could look up at a man and wish that he had a chance with him. Though he believed that there might be someone out there who might be destined to be with him there had always been that nagging feeling in his chest asking him if he would ever be able to open up.

It's been a few weeks since he met that man, who somehow managed to make his heart beat a little faster, his eyes searching for those expressive and captivating orbs in the middle of the crowd. Being someone who thought himself to be with a heart not being able to open its gates for someone to enter in fear of being hurt again, this man became an exception. He didn't know why and how, it just happened.

For the past few weeks after their first meet Kongpob had spotted the man every time he had his performance night. And sometimes during the day when he would be working as the bartender at the club. The first time Arthit saw him during the day, attending to the drinks of the customers, the latter was surprised. Kongpob just smiled at the latter.

"Surprised to see me without those strange makeup?"

Kongpob had asked as he made Arthit's non-alcoholic drink for the day. The latter had chuckled shaking his head before he looked up at him through his lashes.

"You could say that, but I guess luck is on my side. I got to see you like this."

Kongpob doesn't know what that meant and he didn't ask either. Though daytime wasn't accompanied by the rush of people like during the night, Kongpob still tried to make himself look busy because the gaze Arthit had on him made him nervous, feeling all the weird knots in him, making his body heat up a bit.

And today seeing Arthit walk into the club, Kongpob smiled back when their eyes met. It has become a routine for him. The latter only visit the club during the non-rush hours rarely but he likes to meet him during the day or afternoons because he felt that he had more time to keep his attention on the man. And he wouldn't be looking like some slutty looking man with those makeup at skinny costumes he had to wear for the performance.

"Had lunch?" Kongpob asked as he cleaned the counter, watching Arthit take a seat in front of him. It's past 3 in the afternoon, an unusual time to see Arthit.

"Yeah, what about you?"

Kongpob pauses for a moment, going through his memory before just humming back to the latter.

Arthit raised an eyebrow, "Kong, no."

The younger rolled his eyes, "Leave it, please."

"It's the third time this week, why do you like starving so much?" Arthit glared at the man. With them getting to know each other a bit after their first encounter something that he understood about Kongpob was that the latter had tendencies to skip his meals.

"I just forgot," Kongpob mumbles.

"One day I'll make sure you eat all your meals," Arthit mumbled as he shook his head, sighing.

"What?" Kongpob asked, not catching what the other said.

"Nothing," Arthit looked up and smiled softly. "By the way, I came along with my brother today. He just came back from Australia today and persisted me to take him to a club at this hour."

"Is he a clubber kind of guy?"

Arthit shrugs, "I guess so. Who knows what he's been up to in Australia?"

"He's working there?" Kongpob asks as he finishes cleaning.

"Yeah, he's looking after our business there."

Kongpob nods, but before he could talk further, the staff member called for him. Kongpob excused himself for a minute before walking towards the staff. He was briefed about the night show and his performance like every day. He just nods to his co-worker who patted his shoulder before leaving.

Sighing Kongpob turned around, walking towards Arthit who had his back facing him. When he reached close to the latter he found another man seated beside him. His body turned numb the very next second as he stared at the face of the newly arrived man.

"Oh, Kong! Meet Aran, my brother."

Kongpob felt as if he couldn't breathe as the familiar amber eyes met his. The shock and years of suffering he had to go through, rushed into his head. Everything looked blurry all of a sudden and he knew only one thing. That's to run.

"Kong!" Arthit stood up absurdly as he watched Kongpob turn his back and sprint away. He looked at his brother, finding him blankly staring in the direction Kongpob ran away.

"Do you know him?" Arthit's jaw clenched as he turned to his brother.

Aran blinked before a wide smirk spread across his face. "It's more than that, P."

"What do you mean?" Arthit's lips parted in shock, staring at how his brother's expression changed. Those amber eyes glimmered with something that Arthit couldn't catch but it was scary.

Aran turned to face the elder, chuckling. "Do we have to dig up the past now? Anyway, thanks P for bringing me here. I got to meet him because of you."

"Aran!" Arthit called out as he watched his brother stand up and walk away, hands in his pocket.

Arthit didn't know what to do or what was going on. His brother wasn't telling him anything and Kongpob wasn't even there. Running a hand over his face he turned around to look for a staff member when he spotted one he walked towards the latter.

"Excuse me, do you know where Kongpob is?" He asked the man who was at the other side of the bar counter.

"Oh, he just left. Said he wasn't well. Do you need anything, sir?" The man asked.

Arthit sighed as he shook his head, mumbling a thanks he walked away. He needs to know what's the deal between Kongpob and his brother and he knew it wouldn't be something good if Kongpob reacted the way he did. He decided to wait for the night, he will talk with the latter after the performance, and by that time he has to have a good talk with his brother.

As much as Arthit wanted it but things didn't go as planned. His brother wasn't giving in to him, just uttering vague sentences that Arthit couldn't catch onto. His brother just brushed it off telling him to not bother about it and why he was so keen to know everything. Arthit didn't know what to answer.

And then there is Kongpob who's confusing him more than his brother. It's been three days and he hasn't seen the latter at all. It has been three days since he came to the club and performed, three days since he wasn't working because according to the staff at the club, he told them that he was 'sick'. It was frustrating. Arthit wanted to rip his hair off at how things were going. It isn't like he doesn't have the power to track the younger down and find him but he knows it isn't right. He had never seen Kongpob behave that way so he knows something is wrong and that he should respect the latter s privacy.

"Who is he to you anyway, P'Arthit? Why do you keep asking me what's between me and him?"

Aran had irritatedly asked back when Arthit had tried to talk about the incident.

"He's a friend of mine."

Aran laughed at his brother's reply. "You and he are friends?! Oh my! He works at a club for god's sake P!"

"So? Kong is a good man, Aran," Arthit's palms clutched into a fist when he saw the mocking smile on his brother's lips.

The younger smirked, "I don't think you'll be friends with him after you know what he used to do."

Arthit blinked, not believing that it was his brother who he was watching. He had never seen this side of his brother, looking careless, disgusted, and as if he was mocking him.

"If you have something to say, spit it out! Stop beating around the bush, nong!"

"You're being friends with a slut, don't you feel ashamed?" Aran scoffed.

Arthit gasped, glaring at his brother.

"Aran! Don't you dare speak-"

"Or what? I'm telling the truth. He sells his body, P'Arthit. And maybe now he's trying to seduce you too."

"Kong is never like that! He works at the club as a singer and a waiter, you're wrong about him!"

"Oh my poor man," Aran walked over, patting Arthit's shoulder. "You believed him blindly."

"If my memory is right, he should be selling out himself for survival since I dropped him off at such a place," Aran winked at Arthit before walking out of the office room at their house.

Arthit stood frozen in his place. Processing the information he got. One thing he knows for sure is that Kongpob never lied to him, he wasn't a man like that. And the way Kongpob reacts when strange men try to hit on him during his performance night was solid evidence that what Aran told him wasn't true. He trusts Kongpob though they have only got to know each other for a short time.

Whatever it was he wasn't going to believe his brother blindly on the nonsense he had spouted to him moments before.

*****

Kongpob's eyes automatically searched for those hazel orbs in the crowd as he sang into the mic. Though he prayed to not see Arthit among the crowd, a tiny part of him wished he did. It's been days since he tried to hide away from Arthit. He doesn't even dare to stand in front of him or see him, knowing who the latter's brother was.

The dark past that he had buried deep has resurfaced. Seeing the man who he never thought he would see again triggered those old wounds. The reason why his life was upside down. Realizing that the person was Arthit's blood made him choke inside.

What if he would be thrown again into his past? How will he even be able to look at Arthit after he knows about him from his brother? Soo many questions are left unanswered. He doesn't know what to do. Everything just made his mind shut down.

Kongpob smiled at the crowd as he finished singing the last song for the night. The lights turned dim the very next second like usual, giving time for the performers to get down the stage.

Sighing Kongpob walked down the stage, heading to the makeup room so he could change.

"Hi there, my precious."

Kongpob's steps halted, his body froze and his eyes widened as he heard the familiar voice behind him.

"I didn't know you could sing soo pretty."

His body shivered, lips trembling as he stood rooted in his spot.

"Come on, won't you even look at me?"

Kongpob closed his eyes, taking a deep breath he decided to just ignore him and move on. But even before he could take a step further a hand grabbed his wrist, turning him around.

"Are you ignoring me, my precious?" Amber eyes darkened with anger and Kongpob felt like he was back to his 18-year-old self.

"D-Don't call me that!" Kongpob glared back, reminding himself to stay calm.

The other smirked, tightening his hold on the latter's wrist, "Wow, now you can talk back? That's an improvement,"

"Stop it, Aran!" Kongpob pulled his hand away from the other's grip. Catching his own wrist that was starting to ache.

Aran shrugged his shoulders, pocketing his hands he stepped closer to Kongpob who took a step back immediately.

"Don't come near me."

Aran hissed, "Feisty, I see."

Kongpob's breath fastened, anger and distress spreading through him. He glared at the latter before trying to walk away but Aran wasn't having it.

"Where do you think you're going?" Aran grabbed onto Kongpob's arm.

Kongpob struggled to let go but Aran wasn't giving in, "Leave me alone! What do you want!?"

"Well, I got a great deal when I disposed of you at that club," Aran smirked as he felt Kongpob freeze. "Such a great deal for your body! And now I want to taste it too. It's been years, you know."

"So, tell me, how much for a night?"

Kongpob blinked, coming out of his daze, "Huh?"

"I'm asking you how much for a night to have you in my bed," Aran smirked, tilting his head as his face moved closer.

The latter's eyes widened, and he pushed himself away from the man as he tried to remove his hand from his arm.
"I'm not! I'm not doing t-"

"Remember those days back in college when you would never allow me to have you in bed?" Kongpob closed his eyes, he doesn't want to remember anything about the time he had spent with Aran.

"Since that is your job now, I'll pay you, come with me for the night."

Anger boiled inside Kongpob, his eyes red with unshed tears. He finally pushed Aran away from him.

"Fuck off, Aran! I hate you! I hate you soo much!"

Lips trembling Kongpob pushed Aran away making the latter stumble back, "You-You destroyed me! How could you!? I-I had dreams about my future and you destroyed it! I fucking hate you, Aran!"

Aran laughed, "You had dreams?"

Stepping closer, his body covered Kongpob's figure. His palm grabbed onto the latter s chin, startling Kongpob.

"What would an orphan and a pathetic guy like you achieve, Kongpob? You would never become anything."

Tears streamed down from the corner of Kongpob's eyes as he continued to glare at Aran. His breathing was heavy when the other pulled away, fixing his shirt.

"I'll come again and next time I want you to come with me."

"In your dreams," Kongpob grumbled at Aran only laughed at him before walking away.

Kongpob stood there for a long minute. Trying to get his breathing to normal and his mind away from the mess.

Why was this happening to him now? He needs to get away from here but he doesn't know how or where he should go. He felt as if a huge stone was being placed on his back.

"Kongpob."

The younger felt as if his stomach was turning as he heard the voice that approached him. He looked up, gulping at the man who was walking toward him.

"P-P'Arthit."

"So you finally stopped hiding?"

Kongpob dropped his gaze, seeing how the elder's demeanor was. The softness in those long gone, the tone of voice held soo much hurt that Kongpob felt like he was choking hearing the elder speak.

"I'm sorry but I have to go." Kongpob cleared his throat. Wanting to go away and just hide from the outside world.

Arthit's hands trembled making him grip it into a fist, "You have time to speak to my brother but not me!?"

Kongpob gasped, snapping his gaze at the elder.

"P'Arthit stop."

"No, I won't!" Arthit shouted, "I saw you both! I saw you two talking! You have time for him but not me!? All these days I was the one hurting while I tried to just have a conversation with you but you were hiding! Do you know how hurt I was, Kong!?"

Kongpob massaged his forehead, feeling like his head was going to explode. The anger and hurt Arthit was feeling was right and he understands but at this point he wants nothing but to disappear from there.

"P'Arthit, let's just not talk about this now."

"Then when, Kong?!" Arthit stepped forward, "You're going to hide away from me again, aren't you?! What's the deal with you and my brother!? What is going on between you two?!"

"P'Arthit stop!"

Arthit scoffed, slowly being blinded by the anger rising in him "Now you want me to stop, huh?! When Aran was talking to you why didn't you walk away?! But you want to walk away from me?!"

"I-I loved you, Kong, not him!" Arthit finally let the huge weight off his shoulders as he screamed out his feelings. His face flushed red and eyes stared into the terrified back orbs of the younger.

Kongpob shook his head, stepping back, "P'Arthit stop!"

"Aran told me that you were using me! He told me that you were sleeping around with people to earn a living!" Kongpob choked on his breath, hearing the words that came from Arthit.

"But I never believed it, Kong! Because I know you would never do that! Because I trust you!" Arthit ran a hand over his hair, frustrated with everything. "But now, are you choosing him over me!?"

The younger let out a sigh in distress, not knowing what was going on in the other's head."What the hell are you saying, Arthit?! You-You, don't know an-"

Kongpob stumbled back, his eyes widened as a pair of lips smashed into his. Palms cupped his cheek. The younger could taste the alcohol from the other. But all that Kongpob's mind was clouded with was the image of his 19-year-old self, trying to escape those hungry eyes and hands that reached him. The image of Aran who looked down at him flooded his vision.

Kongpob pushed Arthit away but the latter didn't budge. Arthit tried to move closer to the younger. Disappointment and anger in himself finally broke Kongpob as he used his hand to push Arthit's face away from his.

The next thing he knew, a hard slap landed on Arthit's face. Making Kongpob breathe heavily, staring at the man he loved.

"I hate you!" Kongpob cried, he could still feel how Arthit's lips had captured his own a few seconds ago. But everything that had been going on pressed all the wrong buttons in him.

Tears rolled down Kongpob's cheeks as he stared at Arthit who had his eyes on the floor, "You brothers think I'm your plaything!? Just get lost from my sight!

"I'm not a toy for you both to play with!" Kongpob cried.

Arthit snapped his gaze at Kongpob, his heart clenched staring at the face of the person he love in distress and hurt. He watched as Kongpob ran away, wiping his tears.

And he knew, he made a big mistake that day. He wasn't supposed to behave like that. Silent tears rolled down his cheeks, blaming himself for acting the way he did.

"What did you do, Arthit?" The latter asked himself, running his palms over his face. A sigh of disappointment left his lips.

When he saw Aran and Kongpob talking, he nearly lost it. He couldn't hear or see what really was happening but all that he saw was they were talking. Realizing that Kongpob chose to talk to Aran rather than him was painful. He had gone back into the crowd, ordering himself drinks to cool down his head.

He was there, at a corner, watching Kongpob perform for the night. He knew that if the latter saw him he might try to get away from him again, not even giving him a chance to speak and he didn't want that. But in the end, everything turned upside down.

From the first time he met Kongpob the latter somehow held a special place in his heart. His voice, his actions, his smile. Everything captured his heart. Feeling something that he had never felt with anyone else. And as they got to get closer and know each other, he could tell that he was falling for the younger boy. And maybe, Kongpob was too. That he wasn't the only one.

But with the arrival of Aran, he didn't know everything would change. That things could get complicated.

Staring down at his phone he took a deep breath. Kissing Kongpob wasn't in his plans when he decided to confront him. His feelings got the best of him and now he wishes that he didn't do that.

"I need to make this right."

Kongpob silently walked through the street to his apartment, his mind was wandering off to that one person who he had missed so much yet tried to run away from.

He was tired of everything. Of going to perform at night when his eyes had to smile even with the tears he had in them. It was aching him inside out. Realizing that not all dreams would come true.

He wished for a normal life, only praying to the universe to bring a person into his life who would treat him as a special person in their life. To have a partner, to make a family he never had. Though his heart was shielded all these years ago, thinking that the past would rerun and he would be shattered again. But then Arthit came into his life.

Never expecting someone to make him feel special, Arthit proved him wrong. Yes, it has been only weeks since he got to know the young, handsome businessman, but Arthit had slowly captivated his heart. Making him feel butterflies and his heart thumps faster. His dimpled smiles and carefree laughter, the way Arthit's eyes would soften as he listens to him speak. No one has given him such attention in his entire lifetime.

But he was scared to open up, what if it was all in his head and Arthit wasn't feeling the way he was feeling towards the other? After all, they're poles apart. He was some singer and bartender at a club, barely trying to save up for his future while Arthit was a businessman, respected by thousands and a man who has his life figured out. Arthit was too high for him to reach.

I loved you, Kong

Kongpob closed his eyes, stopping in his tracks to stabilize his emotions. The clenching pain in his chest wasn't making it any easier.

He should have been over the moon hearing the person he had fallen for confessing to him. But he ruined it. He pushed Arthit away. If Aran hadn't come into the picture, all of it would have been different.

But the past few days all that he could think was Arthit's teary eyes, those soft lips that captured his, the way he landed the slap on the man. It was painful. He couldn't control his own body that night, doing whatever his instinct was to. He hurt Arthit and he hates himself for that.

"Going somewhere, precious?"

Kongpob shivered, startled at the sudden voice behind him. His jaw clenched realizing who it was.

He turned around, glaring at the man."I told you, don't call me that."

Aran chuckled, taking a step further, "But you loved it when I used to call you that."

Kongpob scoffed, staring straight into those amber eyes he spoke through his clenched jaw, "That Kongpob was a fool and I'm not ready to go back to my old self. Now get lost from here, Aran."

The latter shrugged his shoulders, looking back innocently at the other.

"Why are you pushing me away? I just came to fulfill my words."

Kongpob blinked, "What words?"

Aran smirked and Kongpob knew this wasn't going to end well.

"Come with me, there's an amazing hotel nearby. Why don't we stay there for the night?"

"No," Kongpob immediately backed away, knowing what the other was talking about. Glaring at the latter, anger rising in him Kongpob shouted."Aran, stop it!"

"I told you that I would come, didn't I?" Aran stepped forward, he was pleased that the alley was deserted and no one would even care to come up.

Kongpob scoffed, shaking his head."You're no one to me, Aran! And I don't have to listen to you!"

The other's demeanor changed, his eyes darkened, pissed off by the other's behavior."Aran doesn't back off, Kongpob. Besides, you would be so experienced by now, how many men have you slept with? I would like to see your skills."

A punch landed on Aran's face, making the latter stumble back, almost falling into the ground.

"Be careful with your words, Aran! You have no idea what I had to go through to escape that place you put me in! All you needed was money, you didn't care about me!"

Hands trembling with anger, Kongpob pushed the man in front of him, landing another punch on his shoulder making the man hit the ground.

"You threw me in front of those dirty men! Sold me to them to get your fucking money! I had to struggle between them to escape that place. I never went back there again."

Aran's eyes widened, standing up, he hissed feeling a bruise already forming on his shoulder and face."That explains why those men were pissed off at me. I was beaten by them because of you!"

He remembers the day very well. He was beaten up by two men in front of his friends on a street, with them shouting at him for not knowing to do his job and to return the money soon. He was humiliated that day. He never saw Kongpob after that, he didn't know where the latter was.

Kongpob felt a knot in his stomach, pain, and disgust towards the man making him feel uneasy.

"You only care about yourself! I was your boyfriend, Aran! Didn't you even love me for once!?"

Aran scoffed, wiping the blood from his lips.

"Poor you, didn't you know that I was using you? It was all a plan. You were just a game between me and my friends. Who knew you would have stuck with me through those two years?"

Kongpob didn't feel surprised hearing it, but the pain he felt for being used was not okay.

"I trusted you, Aran."

"Not my fault," the latter shrugged."I didn't tell you to trust me."

A painful smile broke onto Kongpob's lips, "Yeah, the biggest mistake I made in my life."

Taking a deep breath, Kongpob turned away."I have to go."

Just as he was about to walk away Aran took hold of his hand.

"Not so soon, Kongpob."

Kongpob felt his blood boil with the way things were going. Before he could raise his hand in an attempt to punch the other a loud voice echoed around them.

"Aran! Leave him!"

Stunned, Aran snapped his gaze toward the source of the voice. His eyes widened.

"P-P'Arthit."

Arthit walked towards them, pulling Aran away from Kongpob who was gaping at him.

Grabbing onto his brother's collar, Arthit glared at him."If you dare touch him or see him again, be ready to live in the dumpsters. You get me?!"

Aran could only nod his head, knowing that Arthit could really do that to his life. He stumbled a few steps as Arthit pushed him, releasing his grip on his collar.

He glanced at Kongpob who immediately looked away from him, "I'll deal with you soon."

"No, you won't!" Arthit replied to his brother's so-called threatening words. "Now get the fuck out of here!"

Kongpob stared down at his feet, his arms circling his belly as he tried to suppress the tears that were threatening to fall. He heard footsteps approaching him and before he knew two warm hands engulfed him, caressing his hair.

"It's ok, Kong. It's ok."

And that was his last straw as Kongpob broke down crying in the elder's arms. Clutching onto the shirt of the other, he buried his head into his chest. Sobbing into those arms.

Arthit holds Kongpob tighter in his arms, knowing Kongpob needs this at the moment. It breaks him inside out knowing what Kongpob was put into because of his brother. Overhearing what they spoke, the hurtful words that spit out of Aran made him question whether that man was really his brother or not.

Though he doesn't know the whole story, one thing that he knows is that Kongpob suffered because of Aran, his brother. And he was not going to let that happen once again.

"You're safe, Kong. I won't let him near you, I promise." Arthit whispered, placing a soft kiss on the crown of the younger's head.

Kongpob nodded his head, slowly pulling away. His sobs were reduced and his breathing was stable. Wiping his tears away, and sniffling he looked up at Arthit who gave him a soft smile.

"Let's go to your apartment, the night is chilly today."

The younger man nodded his head, giving back a thin-lipped smile they walked ahead.

Arthit made sure that Kongpob was safe, he made sure to watch Kongpob walk up into the latter's apartment as he stood outside, his hands in his pocket. The elder's eyebrows furrowed as he watched Kongpob stop in his tracks before jogging back to him.

Kongpob stood in front of him with a hesitant smile, his palms held together nervously, "Would you...Would you like to come up?"

A wide smile bloomed on Arthit's lips, "If you're ok with that."

"It's a small place for you though, I'm poor you know," Kongpob winked, trying to lighten up.

"But you live there," Arthit smiled. "That place will be special however small it might be."

Kongpob could feel his cheeks heat up, heart beating faster with the way those tender hazel orbs stared at him, trying to cover up how he was feeling he forced a laugh walking into the apartment building, "You really have a way with your words."

Arthit chuckled, shaking his head as he followed Kongpob up the stairs.

As they reached Kongpob's room Arthit was amazed to find how organized the place was. It was a small room but the room was organized and neater than his own bedroom.

"I don't have a chair so you have to adjust on the bed," Kongpob pouted unconsciously, as he pointed at the bed.

Arthit smiled, shaking off the urge to pinch those puffed-up cheeks of the younger. "It's fine, Kong."

Kongpob smiled, nodding his head at the elder before he walked towards the fridge. Pulling out a small bottle of water he raised it, showing it to Arthit.

"I don't have anything to give you other than water, so?"

Arthit laughed, the other's facial expressions were amusing as he talked."Water is more than fine."

The younger walked towards the elder, opening the sealed water bottle before passing it to the other. They sat in silence as Kongpob watched Arthit gulp down the water from the bottle. Finishing half of it.

Kongpob stood up, walking towards the window to open it. Let the air enter the room, feeling the cold breeze hit his face, he took a deep breath.

"Aran and I started our friendship during our second year of high school."

Arthit froze, looking up at Kongpob who had his back faced to him he knew this was what he wished to hear. He wanted to know what happened between Kongpob and Aran but knowing that it wasn't his place to ask for an explanation he didn't initiate any thoughts on it.

"During the end of the second year, he proposed to me. I was over the moon," Kongpob chuckled, his hand gripping the window rail.

"To have someone to finally love you felt like a dream for an orphan like me. I was never loved, no one cared for me and when Aran suddenly showered me with all those feelings I had been wanting someone to give me, I was blindly in love with him."

Arthit silently watched Kongpob, feeling the pain that was in the younger's voice.

"I knew only little about his family though we were in a relationship for two years. He never wanted to talk about himself and I respected that, thinking maybe he was going through a hard time and didn't want to open up yet."

"Our classmates were jealous of our relationship," Kongpob chuckled painfully. "Then there came the stage of entering University, I had a lot of dreams, wanting to get into a prosperous University, and study engineering."

"Aran and I had the same goal, so we tried to get into the same University. I tried to get into the university by scholarship since I didn't have the income to spend on tuition fees and I was so grateful that I was able to get it and was happy that we both got into the same college."

Kongpob took a moment to compose himself, turning to face Arthit who stared back at him with an encouraging smile. Kongpob somehow felt light inside seeing that soft dimpled smile.

Taking he deep breath he continued, "But everything changed when we started university. Aran wasn't the same. He...he was different, as in a little aggressive towards everything. Even to me."

"He was my first relationship and thought to be my last too. Even when I noticed the changes I tried to stick with him, he was the only one who I had."

Kongpob wiped the first drop of tear from his cheeks, "We were on the verge of a breakup during the first year of college because I was getting tired of him pushing himself on me for things I'm not comfortable with, for being aggressive and getting into a bad peer circle. The university was not doing well for him."

Kongpob's breathing was uneven, feeling a clench in the middle of his chest, remembering the past.

Before he knew a warm hand caressed his back, a whisper in his ear, "It's ok, you don't have to talk anymore."

Kongpob shook his head, his mind a little bit at ease with the elder's presence, "No, I want to."

Arthit nodded his head, respecting the other's decision, as he watched the other take a deep breath.

"T-Then during semester break he-he brought me to a night club. I have never gone to places like that, I didn't like the loud noise of crowded people."

"Before I knew my own boyfriend had knocked me off, I was unconscious and he sold me off to some random guy who was running a brothel."

Kongpob wrapped his arms around his waist, his palms clutching into fists. The anger showed on his face.

"When I was conscious, I was surrounded by strange men who were trying to get themselves on me while I was confused with everything. Crying of Aran, thinking he was out there looking for me."

Kongpob scoffed at his own words, feeling pathetic for himself for thinking the way he did in the past.

"I tried to run away from them, receiving all the punches they threw at me. And then letting me know that my 'boyfriend' sold me off for money and drugs."

"I felt completely drained, knowing the person who I trusted the most, gave my everything to, betrayed me."

Arthit never thought that he would hate his brother. But now, hearing Kongpob speak, and talk about what he had to go through because of his brother, made him realize that his brother wasn't that small innocent boy he took care of in the absence of their parents. Aran had a cruel heart and mind.

"I-I was able to get out of that place somehow. Fighting off the men as much as I can. I had no idea where that place was, I had lost my phone and my wallet. I had nothing with me. I roamed around the dirty streets before passing out at a corner. I woke up when an old man tried to help me, he gave me water. I'm forever thankful for that man."

"I tried to look for a way out but I couldn't. The whole street was filled with drug dealers and others who did dirty business."

Kongpob sniffled, wiping his tear-stained cheeks with the back of his palm.

"That's when I came into the club where I work now. I was able to beg them to give me a job. First as a bartender there and then becoming a singer at the club. I came to know that I was in a different part of the city, Aran had knocked me unconscious and handed me over to some men who brought me to this city."

"I finally saved some money and went to the university I studied at. I came to know that I lost my scholarship and my dorm room. My belongings were thrown into the storage room in the dorm I stayed at. I was able to recover them and came back here to work."

Looking down at his sweaty palms, Kongpob heaved a sigh. Feeling the warm hand around his shoulder continuing to caress him, encourage him.

"And now it's been 3 years since I started working here. From that day onwards, I never wanted to trust any other man. I was afraid whether that man would be another Aran in my life. I dropped the topic of love from my life though I wished one day someone would come for me, with whom I can revive the lost feelings."

Kongpob looked up at Arthit who stood beside him, smiling softly through his teary eyes, taking Arthit by surprise.

"And then you came into my life like a soft breath of fresh air in my messy life."

Arthit gasped, eyes wide, the action making Kongpob chuckle. The simple sound of laughter from the other made Arthit's lips stretch up. Seeing the other smile after all the tears he had shed made him happy.

"Everything about you, day after day that we started to become close, fascinated me. At the same time igniting a fear of what if I fall into that old trap again. But I never saw a hint of doubt or uncertainty from you. You were different, I could see it."

Turning his body to face Arthit, he took the elder's hands in his, squeezing them, showing how thankful he was for the other. "I could see the difference between you and Aran and I knew you wouldn't do anything that would harm me."

Looking down at their joined hands, Kongpob took a deep breath, feeling tears pool in his eyes.

"I'm sorry P'Arthit for hurting you that day. I-I was stressed and angry, at Aran for coming into my life again. I never wanted to see him or talk to him but he was making it difficult for me by pushing himself on me again."

Arthit's eyes softened further if it was possible than it already was. He just wants to pull the other towards him, hide him in his arms and protect him from the outside world. Kongpob had gone through soo much, which he didn't deserve to go through.

"I-I was angry at everything. While the man who hurt me and dropped me like I'm a piece of useless tissue, making my dream of life fall out, has reached a high position in his life, while I, who suffered because of him am still saving up money to go back to university."

Kongpob's lips trembled, eyes fixed on their hand, his shoulders shook and tears fell on their hand, the contact of water drops startling Arthit.

"I-I hate myself."

Arthit pulled Kongpob into his arms. Hearing the sobs escape from the younger made him feel weak in the knees, hearing the man you love break down was painful to hear. But knowing it was because of his brother, was bringing a pain that was ripping him inside.

"You're a strong man, Kong. You're soo strong for striving through all that you have been through. I'm proud of you," Arthit held his tears from falling as he caressed Kongpob's back, holding the man tight in his arms.

Placing a soft kiss on the younger's head, Arthit whispered, "I'm so proud of you."

Kongpob wrapped his arms tighter around the elder's waist, feeling as if a weight had been off his shoulder, as if a light had shone into his body, hearing the words that were whispered to him. Arthit kept whispering encouraging and acknowledging words for his emotions. Something he never expected to hear from another human.

Having no one to talk to, no one to understand his pain all these years. No one to even utter a word of encouragement or being there to listen to his pain had numbed him inside out. His mind told himself that he was nothing to his world, his struggles were pointless.

But now just those few words from Arthit opened a path for him to breathe fresh air. Like a soft breeze carrying him up in the air. He felt he was worth it, now.

Kongpob suddenly froze in Arthit's arms, blinking his eyes, his breath hitched as he registered the words Arthit uttered.

"I love you, Kong."

****

Life is a ride full of different emotions and feelings. One time you might feel the whole world is against you but then life opens that one small gate of light for you, bringing out one of the biggest treasures in your life. Something that even you didn't realize you needed in life.

And Arthit Rojnapth is that treasure that life had unexpectedly brought to him. And Kongpob is forever grateful for that.

One thing that Kongpob is glad about is the fact that he was able to put the barrier between Arthit and Aran. He kept teaching himself that they both were different human beings and it doesn't have to be the way he thought it would become. Always fearing in the past that another Aran would walk into his life, he realized that it doesn't have to be that way.

And the only man he is thankful for making him realize this was Arthit himself. The man moved mountains to gain that trust in him. Waited for him to open up about his feelings. Waited for him to trust Arthit.

Something completely different from the relationship he previously had. He never knew someone could love someone so deeply and passionately.

Kongpob always thought, for him, loving someone will be hard and letting someone into his heart will be more complicated. But Arthit was different, that man made him drop his walls so easily and softly that even he didn't realize that he was paving way for Arthit to walk into his life. And he never regrets it.

Kongpob smiles brightly at the man who stood at the front of the stage, his palms holding onto the mic tightened.

I know your name
It's always in my brain
The way you walk, the way you talk
The way you smile, and crazy looks
I won't forget
The moment we first met
You like my baller so you borrowed it
I asked if you'll return it
Then you smiled
While you say goodbye, oh

Staring deep into those smiling hazel eyes, Kongpob sang to his heart's content. His usual job does not seem like a daily schedule to him at all. Having someone be there for you, stare at you with adoration, was a feeling that he missed so much and he was glad there's this man in his life who can give him that.

I remember the days when we're crazy
And the times you're with me just go easy

And this feeling is tough
'Cause it's true, I mean love
And it's over me, over me, still not enough
I mean love, lovе, love, love
I mean lovе, love, love, love
I mean love

Arthit smiled wide, his dimples on display as he watched his lover perform on stage. He winked at the younger when their eyes locked, chucking when Kongpob immediately diverted his gaze and looked anywhere but at him.

Oh that night I can't sleep
So I tried to call your number
Didn't care if you're asleep or still awake
As I remember, we talked about everything
And if our nose collide when kissing
Everything about me and you

It's been over two weeks since Arthit had declared his feelings to the younger and Kongpob voiced out his feelings too. They had just let the other know what they actually felt, nothing more and nothing less. They still haven't touched the topic of 'lovers' and they aren't officially boyfriends either. He is not worried about that at all, all that he cares about is that their relationship has improved and one day they can officially call themselves lovers.

I think of you when I'm alone
You're like a chocolate in a cone
Made with sweet like honey bee
Made from tallest lemon tree
I don't care what they say
As long as you are here with me

Arthit claps and cheers along with the rest of the people in the club as Kongpob finishes singing. Secretly sending flying kisses to the younger when their eyes met.

Kongpob jogged down the stage as the lights dimmed. Smiling wide, he rushed into the open arms of Arthit who waited for him.

"You were fantastic out there," Arthit whispered into his ear.

"Thank you," Kongpob shyly replied, pulling away from the hug.

"Let me just clean up the makeup and then we can leave, ok?"

Arthit nodded, smiling, "Ok, I'll wait for you."

Kongpob excused himself and hurried towards the makeup room to wash his face and change his clothes. Thankfully the room wasn't occupied so he could do his work.

As he walked outside after changing, he started looking for Arthit as he entered the area where the customers were. He took out his phone, intending to call the elder male.

"So now you jumped over to my brother, huh?"

Kongpob flinched at the voice beside him, immediately turning to face the man.

"Aran."

"You left me for my brother," Aran scoffed. "How much does he pay you every night?"

"Aran!" Kongpob's eyes widened, "What are talking about?"

"You think I don't know anything!?" Aran grabbed onto Kongpob's arm pulling him closer.

"You moved out of that dumpster you live in and got yourself enrolled in college. You think I don't know where the money comes from?"

"When I offered to pay you, you didn't want to do anything with me but with my brother you-ah!"

Aran was cut off mid-conversation as a hand grabbed onto his collar, pulling him back, and making him slip and land on the floor.

Aran turned to shout at whoever dared to lay their hand on him, freezing the very next second seeing the man who was in front of him.

"I told you to never lay your hand on Kong, didn't I !?"

Arthit glared at his brother, his arm protectively wrapped around Kongpob's shoulder.

"P'Arthit, I-"

Arthit raised his hand, stopping the other from speaking. Aran gritted his teeth as he stood up, straightening his clothes, and eyeing Kongpob who stood beside his brother.

"You don't know who you are getting yourself into, P. Kong is-"

"I don't want to hear anything from a traitor like you, Aran." Arthit stopped his brother mid-sentence, "I feel disgusted to call you my brother."

Aran's eyes widened while Kongpob gasped at the words too, hearing for the first time such words from the elder.

"P'Arthit, please, let's go." Kongpob tugged on Arthit's coat, but he didn't receive any reaction from the elder.

"I have been waiting for this moment, Aran." Arthit took a step forward, his eyes showing off the disappointment he felt.

Aran stared at his brother in confusion, not knowing where this was going.

"With everything that you have been doing right under my nose, you think you will be spared?" Arthit scoffed.

"What are you talking about?" Aran's eyebrows furrowed, his confused state making him completely numb from his surroundings that he didn't notice the silence that took over the club.

Arthit just stared at his brother, emotionless, he took out his phone and opened it before giving it to his brother.

Dumbfounded by the chain of emotions, Aran stared at the phone, his eyes going wide as he watched the video on the screen. Before he could comprehend anything the phone was snatched away from him.

"Are you trying to make our company a drug dealer's garage?!" Arthit shouted, feeling his whole body shiver with anger."First, you sold off the person you love for money and drugs, and now you played behind my back, spoiling the company's money for drug trafficking to other countries! What's wrong with you, Aran!?"

"Aren't you ashamed of yourself!?" Arthit practically barked in anger at his brother who stared back at him, showing his bleak face.

"No, this is my source of happiness. Why should I care?" Aran simply replied.

Arthit's eyes widened in horror, anger reaching its peak in him, before he could land his raised arm on Aran's face, throwing a punch, Kongpob rushed to him, pulling him away from the latter's brother.

"P'Arthit! Please! Stop!" Kongpob hugged Arthit's waist from the back, pulling the latter away from the other.

"You're hurting people by finding your way of happiness, Aran! Do you think that's fine!? Huh?!" Arthit aggressively pointed his fingers at Aran who just rolled his eyes.

"P'Arthit, please," Kongpob begged the latter to stop as his own tears soaked his cheeks.

Aran watched as Kongpob hugged Arthit, calming the elder. His blood boiling seeing them together but he couldn't do anything now, he knows Arthit's angry, and knowing his brother, it wasn't the right time for him to do anything. It will get him in more trouble.

Arthit turned to face Kongpob was openly crying, begging him with his eyes to stop."Don't you feel angry, Kong!? Don't you want to say anything to him?"

Kongpob shook his head, sniffling he dropped his forehead on Arthit's chest, clutching onto the other's coat."I just want to live peacefully. I don't want revenge or any confrontation with the past, P'Arthit."

The younger looked up at Arthit, "So let's just leave. Please?"

Arthit took a deep breath, before he could speak loud shouts interrupted him.

"Don't move! You're under arrest!"

Arthit didn't budge from his place, he watched the man in his arms, shudder as he pulled away from him. Kongpob's eyes turned wide as he stared at several police uniformed men rushed in, surrounding Aran.

Gasping Kongpob snapped his gaze at Arthit, shocked at what was going on.

"P-P'Arthit..."Kongpob's voice trembled.

Arthit forced a smile, a tear rolling down his cheek. "I had to do it."

"No! This is not possible! P'Arthit! Stop them!"

Arthit shut his eyes blocking his brother's pleas to him. Taking a deep breath he turned to face Aran who was handcuffed with police on either of his sides.

"I never thought that you would do something like this, Aran. I'm disappointed in you. You have to pay for what you've done." Arthit blankly stared at Aran who finally realized what was going on.

"You betrayed me!" Aran shouted as he was being dragged by the officers.

Kongpob couldn't believe what had just transpired in front of him. Still, in shock he just stared at Arthit, watching how hurt the elder was. His lips trembled, his mind unconsciously blaming himself for everything.

"Sir?"

Kongpob blinked, turning his attention to the police officer who approached them.

"Can we please have you at the police station for your testimony? There's a charge against the culprit that he tried to harass you, right?"

Arthit glanced at Kongpob who didn't utter a word before he decided to talk to the officer, "Yes, we'll be there. Thank you, Sir."

The officer nodded his head before walking away.

"P'Arthit," Kongpob called out for the other, his shoulders felt heavy, and his stomach felt like it was being twisted.

Arthit turned to face the younger, slowly raising his hand he cupped the younger's face. Dabbing his cheeks with his thumb."I had to do this, Kong. I'm sorry for not telling you. This once, do it for me?"

Kongpob gulped, melting in the hold of the other male he nodded his head.

Arthit waits to get the sight of that one man walking through the exit of the university gate as he leans against his car. His arms crossed against his chest as another sigh left his lips. He's sure he'll be turning old way too sooner with the number of sighs and stress he was letting out.

It's been a week since Kongpob had talked to him. A week since the visit to the police station, watching Kongpob narrate the troubles Aran had caused him with tears running down his face, with Arthit constantly comforting him.

That night was too much for both of them. And maybe a hindrance to their relationship that they had built up, Arthit doesn't know how to exactly describe it. But ever since that day Kongpob started to keep a distance from him. Not replying to his messages. When he tries to meet him at the club the other tells him to leave alone and that he has college work to do.

Arthit knows everything might have been a little too much for Kongpob and he knows the latter might be overthinking about that night. It wasn't easy for him too, seeing his brother behind bars.

Ever since their parents passed away when Arthit was in university and Aran in high school, it was difficult. The small company that their parents' build-up was in Arthit's hands and at that time he didn't know what to do since he was just a second-year university student. Thankful to his uncle who was such a caring guardian for them, he looked after the company until Arthit was ready to take over.

Now, the company has reached so many heights that they have branches in a few other countries. Arthit had spent his sweat and hard work bringing the company to where it is now.

But trying to make a living for himself and his brother in the first stages, he forgot to be there for Aran. He tried, he always tried to be there but everything was too hard, and being the eldest, responsibilities lay on his hands. He thought Aran understood but gradually he could see that his brother was distancing himself from him. It hurts him, he always tried to talk with him, and be there for dinner so they both could eat together.

But now, looking back at how his brother had become, he thinks it's his fault too. Maybe he wasn't there enough. He felt guilty. But one thing he knows is that, just because it's his brother who had done such a crime, doesn't mean he'll let it go. Whoever it might be, wrong is wrong. There's nothing to change it. And if it's his brother then so be it.

All these stories of the past, he had told Kongpob everything about it on their way to the police station that night. His family, life in the past, and his company. After that Kongpob didn't talk to him for the whole night, only mumbling a good night when he dropped him off at his university dorm.

Arthit straightened his posture immediately, taking steps forward as he saw Kongpob walking out of the exit, looking dazed and uninterested even with the few friends he had met surrounding him talking and laughing.

"Kong."

Arthit watched as the younger stopped in his tracks, eyes wide as he snapped his gaze at him. Arthit smiled softly at the other who had definitely started to look panicked.

"Can I please talk to you?" Arthit's voice was soft and pleading taking Kongpob by surprise, his friends had suddenly stopped talking and gave a concerned look at their friend.

"But I-"

"Please." Arthit insisted as he knew the latter might try to come up with excuses.

"Go ahead, Kong." One of his friends nudged his shoulder, giving a knowing look at Arthit. They know that something is going on between their friend and the businessman, they have seen them together a lot of times when their classes for the day end or after weekends when Kongpob is dropped by the latter at university. But the past week they hadn't seen the man at all and Kongpob looked zoned out and uninterested in everything.

Kongpob simply nodded, watching a smile form on Arthit's lips. The younger bid goodbye to his friends before following Arthit into the car.

Once they settled in Kongpob secretly took in a deep breath, breathing in the scent of the elder that was present in the air. His eyes suddenly turned misty which he tried to hide. It was hard not being able to be near Arthit or even hear the latter's voice, or touch him. He knows it's his fault and he's the one to be blamed.

"Where are we going?" Kongpob asked after clearing his throat.

Arthit glanced at the younger who didn't spare him a glance, just gazing out of the window.

"Somewhere private."

The ride was silent and tense. With Kongpob trying to hide from Arthit's glances. When the car stopped Kongpob let out a sigh of relief.

They both got down, Kongpob staring at the park in front of him. Not many people were there at this hour of the day.

"Follow me." Arthit took Kongpob's hand in his, surprising the latter as he pulled the other with him as he walked.

Kongpob's eyes fixed on their hands, his lips quivered. He didn't want anything other than to hug the man beside him. But he was hesitant. Ask him why? Because he was stupid, an overthinker.

"I always come here when I want to have peace of mind from the outside world. It's cozy here, especially by the lake. Calming and quiet."

Arthit started talking and Kongpob silently watched the elder from the corner of his eyes. He couldn't help the soft smile that threatened to spread across his lips as he watched the other talk about simple little things in life.

"Oh, this is a good spot." Arthit smiled pointing at the huge tree, bloomed with white flowers, by the lake. "Let's go sit there."

Kongpob nodded his head, following the elder. Soon they settled down, leaning against the tree, overlooking the lake that reflected the color of the sky. A few ducks here and there swimming around the water.

Silence stretched between them as Kongpob took in his surroundings, feeling overwhelmed. All these years, all that he saw was the dirty streets, the club that he worked at, the small grocery store down the lane, and the food stall a few blocks away. He didn't go outside of that boundary.

It's only after Arthit that he started to see the world differently from his perspective. Kongpob let out a soft sigh, looking down at his hands on his lap he gulped.

"P'Arthit, I'm s-"

"No. Don't be."

Kongpob looked up, "But-"

"If you're sorry for ignoring me I'll take that but if you're sorry for what happened then you better stay quiet, Kong because it's none of your fault."

Arthit turned to face Kongpob, his heart clenching as he saw the distress on the man's face.

"Why Kong? Why are you blaming yourself when you have done nothing?" Arthit felt his eyes water as he let out the words that he had been bugging to ask the younger.

He wasn't a fool to not notice what was going on inside that pretty head of the one he loves. He knows Kongpob, in these few months of getting to know the other, he can pretty much read the other's mind.

"Why are you torturing yourself again? Why are you torturing me by being away from me? I don't like this Kong, I don't like staying away from you."

Kongpob's eyes widened, his hands and lips started to shake as he stared at the man who was looking soo broken in front of him.

"Wasn't we up to a great start? We both love each other, what more is there to that?" Arthit smiled through his teary eyes."It's only us, Kong. It's only us in our world."

Sobs escaped Kongpob's lips, feeling his chest tighten with the amount of pain he was feeling and the pain he could feel from Arthit's voice. The elder was almost pleading with him, begging him to stop what he was doing.

"It hurts, Kong," Arthit gasped for air, feeling the suffocation in his chest. Turning completely to face Kongpob he took the other's shaking hands in his own."It hurts to see you blame yourself when you were the victim. It hurts me knowing that it was my brother who caused you pain."

Taking a deep breath Arthit reached up to turn Kongpob's face to face him. A painful smile formed on Arthit's lips as he leaned forward, kissing away the tears on Kongpob's cheeks. Making Kongpob cry harder, his body shaking.

Arthit cupped the younger's cheek, smiling as he leaned his forehead on the younger's.

"I never blamed you, love."

And that broke Kongpob completely, he fell into Arthit's arms not caring about the walls he tried to build around himself made of guilt and blaming himself.

"I'm sorry," Kongpob cried into the elder's arms while Arthit lovingly embraced the man, a soft smile on his lips as silent tears rolled down his cheek.

Sniffling Kongpob buried his face into the latter's chest, "I'm sorry, P'Arthit. I'm so sorry for hurting you."

"I-I didn't know what to do after what had happened." Arthit closed his eyes, listening to Kongpob pouring out his heart to him."Because of me, you lost your only family. Wasn't I-I the reason for all of this."

Kongpob looked up, his face flushed from all the crying."You lost your brother because of me."

Arthit stared back at the younger, his eyes softening at the sight of the other. He has never seen someone who blames himself so much even when they're not at fault.

"I-I know the pain of being alone, not having a family to go to," Kongpob wiped his tears away, trying to compose himself."I-I didn't want that for you, and now because of me-I-I-"

"Then would you be my family?"

"Huh?" Kongpob blinked, looking up surprised at the elder.

Arthit smiled, reaching forward to caress Kongpob's hair lovingly, "Be my family, Kong. I won't ever feel alone then, with you by my side, everything will be fine."

"And Kong, just because I'll lose my family doesn't mean I shouldn't acknowledge the mistakes they make and support them when I know they are wrong."

Taking Kongpob's hands in his Arthit softly asked, "Are you suggesting to me that Aran should be forgiven for all that he had done just because he is my brother?"

Kongpob shook his head, taking a deep breath."N-No, I don't mean that. I-I just felt guilty, I'm sorry."

"Don't be, I understand. It's ok, Kong."

Caressing the younger's forehead, Arthit smiled as their eyes met, chucking at the small pout that had formed on Kongpob's lips, Arthit slowly leaned forward, a whisper leaving his lips.

"I love you."

Kongpob's shoulders slumped as a pair of soft lips touched his own. His whole body somehow relaxed at the touch of the flesh. His heartbeat was rising yet he left like he was at the safest place in the whole world, feeling the calmest he had ever been.

When they pulled away Kongpob laid his head on Arthit's shoulder.

"I love you too," Kongpob relaxed into the warmth of the other. "And I'm sorry."

A mischievous grin spread across Arthit's lips, "I will accept your apology under one condition."

Kongpob pulled away, his eyes furrowed as he stared at the man he loves.

"Be my boyfriend." Arthit grinned wide as he watched the younger's doe eyes go wide.

Kongpob punched Arthit's shoulder playfully, his already red face, flushed deeper."Stop it."

Arthit's forehead creased, "So you won't?"

"I didn't say that." Kongpob panicked, shaking his head.

"Then?" Raising an eyebrow Arthit waited with a smirk on his face.

The younger bit his lips. Thinking about what to do, then he started to fidget in his place. Glancing at the elder, taking a deep breath, he raised on his knees.

Arthit's eyes widened as two warm palms cupped his face, smashing their lips together. Feeling butterflies crawl up his skin, feeling all the funny things in his stomach. Kissing back, Arthit wrapped his arms around the slender waist of Kongpob, pulling him forward. The action makes both of them fall on the grass. Giggles escaped them as they kissed.

Pulling away in need of air, with Kongpob on top of Arthit, the younger smiled wide, eyes sparkling and blushing he placed a quick peck on the elder's inviting lips.

"Yes, let's be boyfriends."

The smile on Arthit's face widened, his dimples in full display for Kongpob.

"I love you, Kong. Soo much."

"I love you, P'Arthit."

Wrapped in each other's arms, now leaning against the tree, looking over at the lake and the setting sun, the sounds of the birds chirping around them. The two shared kisses and smiles, feeling their hearts at ease.

And now, looking at the dimpled smile on the face of the man he loves, Kongpob smiles to himself. A single tear rolled down his cheek, for a totally different reason.

Arthit glanced down, his eyes immediately turning concerned seeing his lover's teary eyes but Kongpob shook his head, smiling as he mouthed 'I love you', making the elder lean down and press a kiss on Kongpob's lips.

And Kongpob smiled into the kiss, realization dawning on him that, there is really someone for him, and that was the beautiful, wonderful man who was kissing him at the moment.

*****

So, I'm hoping that the update came out well.

Hope you enjoyed it Messy_bird ❤️
and hope I did justice to the plot

I know it's been a long time since I updated, sorry for that, and thank you so much for patiently waiting for my updates, it means a lot to me. You guys are my encouragement.

Hoping that you all liked the update, I hope my small break didn't affect my writing 😅

Will try to update soon, loves!

Take care and be safe
Love you all❤️❤️