THENEXTPRINCE, Chapter 33: Possiveness.
Above the Royal Palace in the scorching midday sun. Despite the blowing wind, it couldn’t help Young Prince’s devoted butler feel any less relieved.
After Young Prince Khanin gathered all the members, he gave everyone instructions to gather here for a meeting to prepare for the upcoming intense competition. It was evident that everyone collaborated well.
All members arrived on time in the morning. They also helped each other plan meticulously…
Where are we?
Chakri took a breath. Everything mentioned earlier was his sole desire. In reality… Itti arrived together with Charan as the first two individuals. They started the conversation by chatting about the entertainment industry without ceasing.
While inviting the Young Prince to take time off for leisure during practice, Charan, sitting beside him, remained silent and stared at the Young Prince as if trying to decipher some kind of magic, frozen like a stone.
There’s no need to hold back even a bit…
As for the others, they arrived one by one later. Mira, Vetis, and Jirat in sequence. The former stage actor arrived with a homemade cake made by his family.
The young butler admitted it was delicious. Moist and flavorful cake dispersed any tension. Oh… that’s it. The cake’s taste sparked new conversations about planning a trip to enjoy beef stew and pastry at Jirat’s homestay.
Everyone in the team seemed excited… It was a good thing.
However, what happened now wasn’t the most important thing, right?
We can discuss our trips another day.
But today, let’s be a little serious!
The actions left the young butler with a throbbing headache, but duty called. Seeing Young Prince and the other gentlemen in constant conversation, he worried that everyone’s throats would dry up. Therefore, he secretly went out and prepared refreshments.
Chakri walked down the hallway, taking a breath, hoping everyone would engage in a more serious conversation upon their return. The leading butler walked alongside the ladies of the court, dressed in red, escorting a tray of refreshments to the Young Prince Khanin’s study. His worried expression remained evident, to the point that one of the court ladies had to ask.
“What’s wrong, Khun Chatri? I saw you take a breath earlier.”
“Nothing at all, come on. The Young Prince will be waiting if we linger.” He replied with a smiling face, hiding his worry, and exhaled another breath. Then he gently knocked on the door to the study.
“May I have permission to enter… Your Highness, I’ve brought refreshments, Your Highness…”
It was silent without any sound allowed. Chakri furrowed his brow as he sensed something abnormal. The hesitant butler finally turned to give orders to the people around him.
“You all go back to your own work. I’ll serve the refreshments to the Young Prince myself.” He raised his index finger and put on his glasses before continuing with the whole story. Chakri waited until everyone else left. He then took care of the trolley and pushed it through the small door into the Young Prince’s study room.
Inside the room, which used to be filled with the team of swordsmen ready for action, there was no one left. The butler stopped frowning and swept his gaze around the sitting area in the Young Prince’s small bedroom before his eyes caught sight of an open door.
As expected, there was nothing wrong. Now, everyone moved from the sitting room and gathered in the small room that Young Prince Khanin called the War Room. All eyes were fixed on the projector screen displaying a clip of the national team’s sword fighting competition.
The formidable member of the Puchongpisut team… The atmosphere in the room had changed, and everyone looked different from earlier in the morning. Chakri remained calm and composed, while the person seated in the position of chairman turned to see.
“Let’s rewind and watch the clip again. From what we’ve seen, this athlete’s footwork… Oh, butler, you’re back.”
“I apologize for leaving and returning without your permission, Your Highness.” Chakri touched his forehead with his fingertips and then placed his hand on his left chest as a sign of respect. He felt somewhat guilty for his momentary thought that seemed about to reveal what they were waiting for.
“No one else is outside, right?”
“That’s right, Your Highness.”
“Well then, let’s continue the discussion. Now that Chakri is back, I brought everyone here to watch the swordfighting clip together. I apologize for the diversion earlier. It seemed like pointless talk. I just didn’t want others to know what we were planning.” The Young Prince glanced and then turned to pick up the remote control to switch off the projector displaying the images.
The Young Prince’s words left Chakri stunned, and the butler’s bulky figure remembered the morning incident when he realized there was another palace maid present. She had been called by him to assist in receiving the Young Prince’s guests. If there were any special requests, they could be arranged quickly.
Chakri wiped his eyes with a handkerchief, feeling regretful for not knowing anything and for getting slightly annoyed at the team’s apparent imminent downfall even before the match started.
Ah… Young Prince. I apologize for mistakenly thinking negatively like that.
“Now that we’ve seen how each team’ fightings styles are, the next issue that requires everyone’s input is the order of entry and the match of the swordsmen… Since we haven’t practiced together before, I don’t know who has different abilities in handling the swords.”
“…”
“And importantly, Emmaly’s style of fencing is not the traditional international style. I might have to ask everyone for suggestions and be straightforward. Just the mention of drawing lots makes my head ache.”
“Emmaly wants a strong lineage selected based on skill and providing top support.” This sentence was copied by Mira, who took it from the online criticisms.
“That’s right… We’ll experience a three-team fantasy-style match. But if someone draws and advances to the next round, then it’s fine. That means we won’t even see what the team that made it is like. I have to be especially cautious about the order of the sword.”
“That’s it… The fantasy tournament, where if someone draws the ticket and enters the round first, it’s easy. It’s even trickier than fortune-telling because if we’re lucky, it could be us, but if it’s bad luck, it’s someone else. That means we wouldn’t get to see what the team that passes through is like. So, I have to be cautious and pay special attention to the ranking of the swordsmen.” The young royal sat on the chairman’s seat, speaking with a serious tone and sweeping his gaze around.
Everyone in this place is aware of the rules announced by the palace from the beginning because this year there are only three noble families eligible to compete, which means the first round will be missing one pair without a doubt. However, the rules have been amended and modified.
The first round will be determined by drawing lots to decide the outcome so that one chosen team can advance without competing with anyone. The winning team in the first round will be allowed to have one substitute swordsman to use for the next round.
However, the team that advances to the semifinals will not be granted the privilege to have an additional substitute swordsman in order to ensure fairness. Therefore, the selection and order of the swordsmen to enter are of utmost importance.
The main rule of the competition is to defeat the opponent completely. Any strategy can be used, but there must be as many survivors as possible, and among the remaining number of people, the royal heir apparent must be present.
It is a simulated exercise to demonstrate the selection of the Sword Tournament’s winner through the national sport, showcasing who can handle budget management and their team the best.
This competition will show the power to sway people’s hearts, the art of planning, and leveraging the capabilities of the royal heir apparent in managing human resources and finances, in order to make the people see and accept the person who commands the royal heir apparent.
The royal prince who possesses skills in administration, swordsmanship will be the victorious conqueror, resulting in the highest honor for the next family’s head.
“Your Highness, may I express my opinion?” Jae Jirat asked, raising his hand amidst the silence, with an anxious expression as the Young Prince Khanin turned his gaze slightly.
“You can speak, because now you’re a member of the team… Oh, but you don’t have to use royal language anymore. As agreed, remember?” The heir apparent of the royal family smiled, not forgetting to remind everyone of the morning agreement not to use royal language to avoid confusion.
“Um… Sorry, may I… Uh, excuse me… Well then, may I give my opinion? I think we shouldn’t rank the swordsmen but go and see the performance instead.” He was afraid that what he said would not be accepted, so he hesitated at first. However, seeing that everyone else remained silent, he decided to look around.
“Why do you think that way?” There was no reciprocation of disdain or mockery in anyone’s eyes. Everyone paid attention, including the Young Prince Khanin, who at this moment was growing curious.
“Well… I have studied the strategies of the past Sovereign-King tournaments. Mostly, during the competition, the swordsmen were arranged from the least skilled to the most skilled, so that the most skilled person could eliminate the most skilled person from another team, allowing the royal heir apparent to compete with another royal heir apparent and honor the elders, preventing them from losing face within the team. But our team is not a club. Apart from not having to consider the ranking of the elders, we have the freedom to arrange the order ourselves…”
“…”
“What if we create a story for our swordsmen, making others believe that the weakest person is actually the first player, and the goal is to stimulate confusion in the opponents’ reactions.”
“What do you mean…?”
“We need to train ourselves to be as strong as the strongest ones. We’ve been sparring with each other for years, and then we’ll arrange the order for the performance.” Jirat smiled as he approached, preparing to explain everything with determination, despite being in quite a pose.
“And how will we know how other teams will arrange the order? If other teams switch faces for the performance.” This question came from the magician who had been sitting quietly, collecting information for a long time.
“If it doesn’t go as expected, I can predict who will be chosen to fight. I studied acting, worked as an actor, and coached as well. It made me able to read people’s faces… Our facial muscles sometimes twitch or lift on their own when expressing emotions.”
“…”
“A skilled actor can control the muscles on their face to show happiness, fun, sadness, or anger according to their will. So just by seeing their faces, I can tell who will be the next challenger.”
“That’s a good idea. Just listening to it is impressive if what Jae said is true. In that case, the opponents won’t have a clue about our game, but we will read them. They’re all out.” Itti clapped his hands enthusiastically, while the others nodded in agreement.
“And we can also handle the opponents. I think it’s a good idea. As for me, I will gather information on my own… Basic information is not difficult to investigate. Because no matter who comes to drink, they are ready to tell the story if you just ask them a little.” Mira showed confidence. Often, she used her profession to gather information to sell to those in need, and this time she would do it the same way.
“I feel the power. Thank you all so much for this collaboration.” Khanin lowered his hands that had been applauding, acknowledging the excellent insights of Jirat and Mira, while turning to offer a sweet smile to the leader of the Phitakthewa clan, who had not expressed any opinions until now.
“There’s something I need to say beforehand. I agree with everyone about the race order, but when it comes to the actual race, if the opponent is Petai from Team Puchongpisut, then… I request to fence against him myself.” The murmurs persisted, capturing the attention of all eyes, including those seated on the chairs, including Khanin, who sat on the chairman’s seat.
“May I ask why?” Khanin asked, lowering his gaze slightly with a hint of unease. He was trying to hold back, the brewing frustration pulsating in his mind. Just as he was about to dismiss the image of the slender, handsome man from his memory, it resurfaced vividly in his recollection.
That person is the one who often stands beside Ramil.
“Because I’ve known him for a long time.” Charan replied in a calm tone.
“Oh… Have you known each other for a long time?” Ratchanikun stretched his words, but Charan’s response did not alleviate the lingering doubts. Khanin felt like he was being swayed by the apprentices. He wanted to scold himself for asking such a question, but another part of him thought… This is important information for the team.
Yes… He is doing it for the team.
Then I have the right to ask further.
“Since Petai was still a student… At a certain point, he was a student of ‘Morpheus,’ we were close enough. Petai is difficult to understand, too. He has received recognition from the best coaches in the country. In this place, it’s only me who knows him the best.” Charan’s face turned serious. His sharp eyes looked heavy and intense, leading others in the team to pause.
Itti attempted to say something but ultimately remained silent. Because the person sitting on the chairman’s seat didn’t seem willing to let Petai’s topic pass easily.
“Well… Can I say that only Phii Ran understands him?”
“Yes.”
Khanin raised his calm face, unsure why he had to drag out the words in such a manner, but he couldn’t stop himself. Perhaps it was a way to vent the turmoil in his heart.
Knowing each other for a long time, they were close allies. Oh… So he came later…
Despite going through life and death together, it must be acknowledged that Charan wasn’t born on this earth, it’s just him. Even though the other side might have many other societies in Emmaly that he was not familiar with.
But it’s a bit disappointing. When he realized that he himself only had Charan from the moment he stepped foot in this country.
“Oh… In this case… People who have known each other for a long time, those who know each other best, have to compete against each other, right?” He did not want to stir up trouble, but the words slipped out. Khanin also wondered why he felt this way, or perhaps it was because of the dream he had when he stayed at Jirat’s house…
Dreaming of hearing Charan whispering in his ear… saying.
“I like you.”
“I like you, Nin.”
He thought that he had already composed himself and would eventually forget it on his own, that it was just a dream, but it stubbornly refused to fade away…
Just hearing that Charan has known some people for a long time, and he knows them so well that he asked to be their competitor, despite normally refusing to face someone head-on, almost makes my heart itch and whispers something in my mind that shouldn’t be said.
It’s not a good feeling to have to restrain oneself, but the more you restrain, the wider it expands. The confidence I used to have has diminished along with the sense of self-importance that I thought was the most valuable.
I don’t want Charan to give anyone false hope, I don’t want him to be close to anyone other than himself…
It’s longing…
Longing occurs when we like something so much that we don’t want to share it with anyone.
Do I really like Charan?
Khanin understands his own feelings as well as anyone, after analyzing all his past actions and discovering a new definition of feelings towards Charan.
However, he has not jumped to conclusions. Because he doesn’t want to make a mistake in this relationship.
Charan hasn’t done anything wrong, it’s not wrong to know or be close to someone before meeting him. After all, we have our own lives, and in the past, it has been shown that he has done many things for Charan, from taking care of him to protecting him. Even going beyond his assigned duties, it has been proven that he is no less important than anyone else.
Khanin took a deep breath. Although his heart was pounding like a maniac.
His round eyes gaze at the tall figure that looks back at him with concern.
It feels like a cool breeze has entered the heart. It’s just like that.
Because I like him, I long for him… so much that I almost become an unreasonable person.
“Ah… then let’s do it, let Phii Ran compete with Petai like that.” A smile and a soft voice from Young Prince Khanin, making everyone who was hanging on to the clear and explicit display of longing and hesitation breathe a sigh of relief.
Itti wiped away sweat secretly. Chakri exhales, probably the only one who couldn’t see clearly that the questions asked only made Young Prince explode.
It’s not obvious at all that the bewildered boy is dying, that stubborn pebble. Itti, who was watching from the beginning, can only shout in his heart.
Young Prince Khanin is amazing, better at handling his own emotions than some actors who know each other too well. Jirat nodded with admiration.
“If that’s the case, we probably have to find a coach who is as good as the national team to train us, where should we find a good one?” Mira asks, quickly adjusting her mood.
“We already have one, sitting right here.”
“Nong Nin, you mean…”
“Yes… Khun Charan will come as our coach.”
Chakri has always wondered how he could trust someone like Charan, who has never held a sword.
At first, when Young Prince Khanin said he would have Khun Charan as the training instructor, the young butler even refused head-on confrontation when trust became uncertain. In the end, Charan had to wield his sword to prove himself.
In the afternoon, Young Prince Khanin challenged everyone on the team to compete against Charan to prove a point. At first, the young butler thought that winning at least two out of five rounds would be considered impressive. Since they had to compete continuously against everyone, it was quite challenging. However, in the end, the leader of the Phitakthewa family managed to win by scoring points rapidly. He defeated five people in a very short period of time.
Okay, I admit, he is skilled… very skilled, so skilled that it’s confusing!
He’s so skilled that it raises questions about why he kept it hidden all this time and made the butler, who’s already stressed enough, feel insecure, as if he’s growing older and shorter every day.
Charan’s skills were evident to everyone on the team. No one dares to challenge him anymore. A close comrade and the team’s new coach, he is someone that everyone sees and admires.
The team’s planning is well-organized and smooth. If there’s any conflict, it probably arises from…
“Chakri, you need to train your physique more than this.”
The intense sound grew louder as Chakri was panting heavily while running on the track in the second round. The bulky-bodied butler slowly approached, glancing at the runners nearby with an envious look.
“Khun Charan… I can’t… It’s too much. Can I go back to being a butler?” Chakri turned to answer Charan. He wondered what he was doing here.
At this time of the morning, he was supposed to prepare breakfast for Young Prince Khun in his private dining room, not this.
He was being pushed into a fitness training program, developing leg muscles and improving breathing for a reason…
He was the substitute of the Atsawathewathin team.
Yes… that’s right. But it was appointed based on Young Prince Khun’s wishes.
“Can you help me, Mister Butler?” Young Prince Khanin, who followed closely behind, spoke cheerfully, but the listeners wanted to burst into tears.
Chakri had to face this mission because he lost the game earlier and had to prove…
“No, Mister Butler. You’ve become our substitute now. We need to be confident that we can defeat the other teams without the need for substitutes. But you need to run to be prepared. Okay? Run just one more lap, and it’ll be enough.” Young Prince Khanin, who ran alongside, spoke with a joyful tone, but the listeners wanted to cry even more.
Although they had been through this for several consecutive days, his body still wasn’t used to it. It didn’t match the gradual improvement seen in other team members, especially Charan, the leader of the Phitakthewa family, which made him realize that his past observations were wrong!
The other side had a well-built physique, tall and agile. Why did they ever think that Charan wouldn’t be skilled with a sword?
He was boiled until he was completely exhausted.
But it was worth it to feel this sense of pride. At least everything was starting to take shape now. Chakri felt a sense of fulfillment when he thought about the report he had to write and submit to the Sovereign King this week regarding Young Prince Khanin.
From what was written, stating that there was concern about this team… the wording in the record had to be revised.
Little Young Prince’s gaze turned to the other team members who were still running with determination. Then, Ben’s eyes turned back to Young Prince, who had stopped running, and he walked hesitantly to find someone else.
“Are you tired?”
“A little bit.”
“Phii, here’s some water. Take a sip, not too much or you’ll choke.” The Phitakthewa leader handed a drink bottle to a younger person, and both whispered and chatted intimately.
Then they walked away, hand in hand, leaving Chakri standing there…
“Your-Highness… Young Prince, wait for me!”
Report sent to the Sovereign-King.
‘The training went well. Everyone worked hard and is well-prepared for the competition… For the first week, Khun Charan pushed the team so hard that it felt like military training, my Lord… Even the Young Prince seemed more attentive to the competition, with Khun Charan by his side. But after this job is done, I will probably have to request a long vacation from the royal position, as the body of this humble butler is showing signs of fatigue. End of report.’
From Chakri.
Towards the end of the week, with the scorching heat exhausting Khanin, after an intense week of training together, everyone suggested taking some time off to relax together.
It was a way to strengthen their relationships… Itti said so after both the Vetis and Mira helped uncover the details provided by Jirat, confirming that the information from the other side was true in every aspect, and there was no deception involved. The atmosphere between them seemed to relax.
The beautiful bartender offered to organize a small private party for all of them, along with the duty of serving drinks to Itti and Jae. Charan, on the other hand, didn’t mind as he wanted everyone to rest after being pushed hard for a week.
The social gathering party to relax was held at the right-wing palace, within a closed reception room to prevent outsiders from entering and disturbing them. They were granted permission by the Sovereign-King to have a fullfledged fun time. Therefore, there was no need to worry.
“It is truly an honor today to drink the skillfully crafted drink by Mira without having to compete.” Vethis expressed his delight. He and Mira were sitting side by side at the bar table, with Itti showing interest in the colorful cocktails of the single lady in the team, not to be outdone.
“Tell me what you want to drink. Everyone.” Everyone, including Khanin, Charan, Jae, and PrinceKalain who were invited, responded with confusion.
Khanin was the one who invited everyone orally, and at first, Charan thought Kalavin wouldn’t be interested in anything. However, in the end, Prince, from a different land, responded to the invitation rather easily, which surprised Charan.
Kalavin seemed to be too idle as a prince and must have had some reason to keep the other side revolving around here. Everyone knew that his original personality was not to get close to anyone.
“What instruments do you play?” Kalavin invited the team leader to talk. Now the little guy seemed to pay attention to the bartender who was skillfully mixing cocktails in vibrant colors, while Charan sat across from him. They sipped their drinks while listening attentively, absorbing every detail.
“Mainly, I play the piano and guitar, but I love singing the most.”
“Oh really… How about performing a song then?” The conversation flowed smoothly because both Khanin and Kalavin spoke the same language, and they had a good rapport with each other. Charan, not being good at conversation, could only sit quietly but did not think of escaping anywhere.
“If you want to listen.” Khanin didn’t refuse. Since when he was in England, he often took up this role, skillfully lifting a drink in his hand for another sip before Chakri waved his hand towards the corner of the room.
“Do you want musical instruments, Your Highness? Chakri has prepared them for you.” In that area, there are guitars, keyboards, a cajon, and equipment to create a small-sized band.
Khanin lifts his smiling face and grabs a guitar to sit beside Your Highness, his eyes shining with excitement.
“I appreciate it, thank you.”
“You’re welcome, Your Highness.” Chakri smiles widely, his head slightly tilted. The effect of the special drink concocted by Mira, he refuses to drink anything else from the bachelor’s house. But because the Young Prince threatened to sulk if he didn’t join the party, he reluctantly postponed his duties for a while.
“Will you play, sir?” Khanin asks while Kalavin picks up a black cajon and sits with it.
The tall figure raises his face, offering a slight smile to his conversation partner, his brow slightly furrowed. “Let’s give it a try.”
“It’s great” The team leader raises his thumbs up.
Kalavin arranges himself on the cajon, ready, but he doesn’t turn to call out to someone who has been sitting quietly without a drink in their hand for a long time.
“Are you Jae?”
“Uh… yes.” The owner of the slightly startled name keeps thinking, lost in thought, before finally lowering his brow, tilting his head to the left, and sliding his foot to create a soft sound.
“Do you want to sing along?”
“Me?” He responds, slightly shocked. He blinks and moves his gaze to Charan, who is sitting nearby, and gives him a small smile, waving his hand in a quiet rhythm.
They converse in a common language. Kalavin understands well that some people are not skilled or accustomed to this, so he takes on the role of speaking and allows everyone on the team to communicate in their preferred language.
“Sure, let’s do it.” Kalavin extended an inviting gesture, while Jirat hesitated for a moment. Finally, he agrees, and the small figure shifting his seat joins them as they prepare to form a small-sized band.
Khanin proves to be a capable lead singer, his charming voice blending with Jirat’s harmonious lines and the rhythmic beats from Kalavin’s cajon, creating a pleasant atmosphere within the room.
They take turns singing and playing, and as time passes, Khanin requests a break to fetch some drinks. Jirat looks towards the corner of the room, where a bouquet of flowers is displayed. He fixes his gaze on that point and remains silent as Prince from a foreign land gets up to join others.
Charan gets up and follows the young royal, leaving only Jirat and Kalavin. Both sides are quiet. Their ranks higher than officials and dignitaries exchange conversations to break the silence.
“Aren’t you drinking?”
“I can’t handle alcohol. It makes me flushed, and sometimes I get a rash.”
He explains without looking directly into the eyes of his conversation partner. Then Jirat looked towards the flower arrangement on the big sofa. He kept his gaze fixed there and remained silent, not saying anything further as Prince from another land invited someone else to get a drink together.
As a former stage actor, Jirat doesn’t want to be like this. It’s not that he doesn’t want to speak, but he is not good at engaging in conversations, especially in situations he has encountered in life. Consequently, he becomes someone who is hesitant to make eye contact or approach others first, as seen in front of him.
Jirat realized that everyone here is welcoming each other well. He feels much more relaxed, but he still cannot cross the walls in his heart, the ones he has built himself, easily.
“Mocktail, no alcohol.” Someone who was thoughtful had gone and come back again, along with a glass of colorful drink.
Jirat paused for a moment. He was slightly puzzled, so he asked, “Is that for me?”
“Didn’t you say you were allergic? This is a non-alcoholic Roy Rogers. I had
Mira make it for you. It’s easy to drink. It’s on me.”
The narrative sentence reflects a careful portrayal that makes the fairskinned person blink, while Jirat frowns without realizing it, his brain trying to process the desires from the person in front of him.
It seems there is no ulterior motive beyond goodwill. Kalavin doesn’t want anything from him, and, importantly, Jirat knows very well that he has no benefit with this dignified man.
Kalavin was fully prepared, so what will he take from him…
“Thank you.” From initially thinking that approaching the man face-to-face was difficult, requiring distance. Now Jirat thinks that he must look at Kalavin again, cupping his hands to receive the drink, before revealing a faint smile.
“How is it?”
“Great, it tastes delicious.” The refreshing taste is easy to drink, combined with the smile on the actor’s face, making the atmosphere in this area not as heavy as before.
Kalavin raises the glass in his hand and takes a sip, the bitterness of the alcoholic taste on the tip of the tongue, juxtaposed with the sweetness that emanates from the conversationalist’s face, clearly contrasting.
“Khun Jae…”
“Yes.”
“Don’t you want to return to the theater stage again?”
The question was unexpected, causing Jirat to pause, his past as a talented stage actor on the brink of his lips, his posture frozen, as if his wavering eyes revealed that this question had a purpose in Itti’s heart.
“…”
“I apologize for asking.” Kalavin spoke with fear that what he had done could be disrespectful, stepping into someone else’s sensitive territory, but Jirat turned his face away.
No… it’s alright. I myself would like to return to that as well if given the chance.” The end of the sentence almost whispers like a breeze passing through, Jirat smiles cheerfully, thinking about the reasons that have kept him from moving forward in a path he loved, leaving him only in sadness.
Doing good without drawing attention can be dangerous, that’s a definition Jirat has experienced personally.
The bullying at work has grown into a story beyond control, something that he has had to face for a long time and something Jirat doesn’t want to talk about anymore. Partly because he doesn’t know if anyone cares to listen to the truth…
It means genuinely caring about the feelings, not just wanting to know and then announce to others.
“…”
“Why did you ask about this?” It was the first time Jirat has taken the initiative to ask first, the fair-skinned, sharp-tongued actor. He earnestly waits to hear the answer… an answer that he never expected in this form.
“Actually… I myself would like to see you on stage again.”
“…”
“I believe that good opportunities will come back to find you after this.”
Jirat doesn’t know if Kalavin is just speaking out of courtesy or if he means it, but the overwhelming feeling he receives makes the listener feel much better than any explanation can convey.
Jirat thinks that he is smiling… It’s a very wide smile.
“Mira, this drink is so delicious.” Another corner of the room. Khanin raises his thumb and jokingly addresses a young lady, drawing the attention of the group with his vibrant voice.
The lady chuckles softly and turns back with a gentle voice, admiring the flushed cheeks of the young person whose complexion is enhanced by the effects of the drink.
“That’s enough, please.”
“Seriously, it’s so delicious.” Being naturally sociable is already an advantage, and now he distributes big smiles even more generously after having alcohol in his bloodstream.
Itti, who has been observing the behavior of his close friend for a while, takes a step from his initial position and walks closer to his good friend, whispering softly and gently with a comforting voice.
“Tell him if you like him, but while maintaining a sweet smiling face, he might not even notice.”
“Stay quiet, Itti.”
Looking closely. The size of his mouth indicates keeping it quiet, and his eyes haven’t even glanced in this direction yet. Itti noticed another important point. Charan didn’t say or deny anything, which shows…
“You really like him, for real.”
“You think you know a lot.”
“I know a lot. And you are currently talking with me but never really look at my face.”
“…”
“Are you afraid he will disappear?” Itti could not contain himself and blurted out his words, having been friends with Charan for a long time, he has never seen such behavior from the other side towards anyone. It’s just impossible to keep it inside.
It’s rare to witness such a phenomenon, it’s as difficult to find as the wonders of the world.
What are these two talking about? It seems interesting.” Because Mira’s laughter is loud enough for Khanin to hear, the young royal turns his attention.
Charan turns to give his close friend a reproachful look, which makes the pub owner burst into laughter.
“I’m just talking to Ran about it. If the competition is over, our team might go and have some fun in the entertainment industry. Are you interested in playing music and singing at Rhan’s place?” Itti skillfully avoids and changes the conversation topic.
“Sounds interesting.”
“I accept only as a singer, not as a bartender, okay?”
The young man taps the table, thinking seriously, waiting for everyone to follow suit.
“Who dares to refuse?” Itti’s smooth and playful tone flows from Mira and laughter follows.
Khanin smiles, feeling energized by the positive energy from those around him. It gradually eases the tension he had been carrying, no different from Chakri.
“Why are you smiling, Mister Butler?” Asking the question in the remaining moments, he sees the other person smiling and looking happily. Khanin slightly tilts his head, showing his curiosity.
“Your Highness, I’m delighted to see the team in such great shape. If our opponents knew how talented this team is, they would surely feel the heat and the chill of competition.” This time, Chatsri didn’t exceed expectations, but chose to speak based on the situation. At first glance, he admitted that he was one of those who couldn’t see the future of the competition.
However, after observing the training and strategizing, Chakri believes that everyone here is a hidden gem in an unexplored mine, especially Charan and Phitakthewa. No one would think that an art teacher who has never held a sword would possess such difficult-to-catch skills, at this level.
The Young Prince, despite being young, possesses sharp foresight and unmatched intelligence!
“Indeed, maybe we should announce to the world who is on our team.” It seems Chakri’s sentence is meant to provoke some thoughts. As Khanin joins the conversation, the handsome prince smiles enchantingly. His beautiful eyes are a charming disguise, causing Charan to ask in order to trap him.
“What does this smiley mean?”
“Introduce the Khanin’s team.”
Charan, distrusting the answer, quickly grabs his own phone before Chakri can put it in his hands.
“What can Your Highness do?”
“How about taking a group photo? Khun Jae, come this way, everyone strike a fun pose.” The team leader claps his hands to gather everyone together.
Chakri hesitated for a moment, but ultimately decided to comply.
“Your Highness, why didn’t you take a photo during practice? It would show that we were focused. Taking a photo like this would…”
“That kind of shot wouldn’t have any impact, we don’t focus on the angle.
We focus on capturing something different, creating a lasting image.”
“…”
Chakri was speechless.
He could not help it. Meanwhile, everyone else laughs. Charan smirks at Khanin’s painful expression, and of course, the Young Prince refuses to give up easily.
Smile, everyone.Mister Butler, just take the photo and focus on me. Don’t look at the camera, so it looks more genuine.”
At the end of the sentence, Chakri grimaces, but he lifts the camera to obey the command. He carefully considers what to ask in his mind.
And you, the one behind the scenes… haven’t you captured enough of our enchanting moments?
…
Ramil gazes at the recently posted photo on the news website, less than an hour ago. A mischievous smile appears on his handsome face, the only son of the Puchongpisut family, leaning his back against the sofa in a relaxed position. While scrolling through the comments and criticism about the Atsawathewathin team.
NO1: Can they handle other teams?
NO2: Bartender, former stage actor, owner of a club, owner of an art school.
A Young Prince from far away, how can they compete in sword fights?
The comments were mixed, but mostly negative, and what interested Ramil the most was the trend showing that Atsawathewathin was blocked by
Puchongpisut and Thawetmetha, leaving no other choice but to recruit the lower class.
It’s a strong opinion, but it is well-liked by the royal prince. The current situation seems worth sacrificing for.
Ramil has been busy all day with training and team meetings. From the strength and skills he has seen from the team members, and seeing the list of competing teams, there is nothing to worry about.
Ramil is not afraid of Evaa, Thawetmetha is not weak, but not too strong to resist. As for Atsawathewathin, he does not consider Khanin as a competitor in this field.
Have you heard the news yet?” The tense voice of Petai caught the attention of those who were interested in the news on the iPad screen, and the face that could be both beautiful and handsome at the same time was filled with tension without a hint of a smile.
“Seen it.”
“Charan is competing in this game.”
“And?” The eyebrows formed a frown, he glanced at the close follower who now holds a position in the competing family, Puchongpisut.
Everyone in Emmaly knows well that Petai is a skilled and formidable person, the only son of a minister’s family, who has competed in sword fighting many times and has always been a winner. Even against Ramil himself.
“….”
“And why?”
“Can I compete against him… can I specifically?” The serious voice of Petai indicates his desire, the son of the prestigious Ranwin family, with lips that are slightly pouted when facing someone with a similar age.
“Why? Give a reason.”
“Others will admire Charan, but I would rather compete against him.” Petai replied honestly, he may not know Charan well, but he thought he was better than anyone else.
“As you wish.” It was strange that this time Ramil did not show any signs of annoyance or challenge, on the contrary, he simply nodded before leaving the room.
“Where are you going?” Petai’s slender hand held onto his strong forearm. From this angle, Ramil did not turn to look at each other with a smile while giving an answer.
“To practice.”
But you have been practicing all day.”
“Oh well, I still want to practice more, you can go ahead.” The royal prince left it at that before pulling his hand away, turning to grab all the sword equipment and walking out.
After closing the bedroom door, Petai secretly sighed because he knew Ramil’s temperament well, that this kind of behavior from the other side meant being in an unstable emotional state, so the son of the minister decided to sit and wait.
Petai still didn’t plan to go home, and since Rachata is not at the palace tonight, he decided to stay and wait for a while. The clock on the wall moved from minutes to hours.
It’s late… but Ramil still hasn’t eaten.
He walked gracefully, taking long strides from the top floor of the building to the dining room downstairs. On the table, there were countless dishes arranged neatly. However, there was still no trace of the shadow of the person she was looking for.
“Where is Khun Petai?” The three court ladies who were stationed in this area bowed respectfully to anyone of higher rank with a subtly submissive gesture. Petai decided to ask them
“Young Prince, has he had dinner yet?”
“Not yet, Khun Petai, he is in the rehearsal room.” One of the court ladies replied softly. It was understood that the other party probably did not allow anyone to disturb the food, as these dishes had been evaluated.
“In that case, please arrange a small set of food for me and make sure no one disturbs the young prince. I will take care of it myself.” He issued a quick order for others to follow.
The court ladies reacted immediately, moving to separate and carry out the orders without any interference. Partly because they knew very well that in a situation like this, only someone capable could weather the storm.
The evening meal was prepared and placed on plates in a prepared tray. Petai took it from the dining room, went straight to the rehearsal room on the third floor by himself, and took a deep breath before knocking on the door a few times.
“I told you not to let anyone disturb you.” The voice from behind the door indicated the speaker’s mood. Ramil was annoyed, and under normal circumstances, no one would dare to come in and disturb him.
However, the person who said that wasn’t Petai…
“It’s me, may I come in?” The person in the room fell silent. Petai paused to process the next response he would receive, and it wasn’t much different from what he expected.
“You are not an exception, Petai.” The young scion of the royal family gave a brief and somewhat malicious response. But for Petai, it was just a slight movement of his hand.
“I know… But may I see your face for just a moment? If not, we… “ He achieved the desired result, as the tone of voice rarely used helped the door that used to remain closed to open quickly and reveal the face of Ramil, which remained calm when their eyes met.
“…”
“Take this, you may come in.” He asked softly as he gestured with the tray of food, allowing the person in front to see it. He then slowly moved aside to let him in.
Ramil said nothing and stopped chasing him out anymore. Petai interpreted this as permission. A small smile appeared on the handsome, longlegged face of the Ranwin family’s son as he stepped into the rehearsal room, quietly observing the other person.
“Did it hurt your hand?” He asked when he saw the person with a higher rank holding his own wrist.
Ramil remained silent and didn’t respond anymore. Petai decided not to overthink it.
The child was playing with a slant, so he should indulge them a bit.
“…”
“Come eat before it gets cold.”
“I’m not hungry.”
“Eat first, I’ll give you a massage later.” With a charming gleam in his eyes, Petai firmly grabbed the other person’s arm, pulling him forcefully to sit down beside him, despite his reluctantly pushing back.
“I said…” Ramil still hadn’t recovered from his agitation, and the royal scion seemed about to burst into refusal. However, one thing he had to accept was… Ramil wasn’t skilled enough to handle Petai… both in terms of swordplay and other matters.
“I am worried about you.”
And matters of the heart.
…
The party will eventually come to an end, and everyone else has already left after the modest-sized gathering. Charan volunteered to escort Khanin to his bedroom, listening to the young man’s arguments that Chakri should be able to rest now.
And the one who becomes close friends should take care of each other. Charan didn’t think to refuse partly because he was willing to do so. The person older than him was carrying the owner’s white-skinned body, blushing cheeks, to the bed.
“Take a rest.” Charan performed his duties excellently, guiding the young person to sit on the bedside, glancing at the red-skinned figure with sympathetic eyes.
“You.”
“Huh?” The sound of a rustling sheet from the person on the bed caught their sweet attention, signaling Charan to approach. Khanin looked somewhat anxious, contrasting with the composed and dignified appearance of the English-speaking youth that Charan had met a few months ago.
I wonder what Mira offered to drink; I seemed bewildered.
“Phii Ran…”
“Yes… I’m listening.” The term of address had changed, hesitating due to the age gap. Because Khanin was noticeably taller, Charan had to bend down, his brows slightly raised before turning into a frown, approaching each other with curiosity when he heard the next sentence.
“Do you like Petai?”
“Why ask such a question?” Charan discreetly swallowed his saliva as his eyes met the charming face that looked up at him, causing his heart to skip a beat. The other party moved slightly, brushing their cheek past one another.
“Well… You said you wanted to compete in sword fighting, why not challenge me?” A tinkling voice echoed with a charming nasal tone, causing the listener to be startled.
Charan felt puzzled and blinked, but chose to reply in a gentle tone, not seizing the opportunity to tease.
“How can I compete with you, Nin? We are on the same team.”
“That’s true…” Khanin made a gesture as if he had just realized something, his boyish face puzzled to the point of being unable to hold it. Charan had to support him to lie down with a pillow.
“Go to sleep.”
“So, do you like him or not?” The curious teenager wouldn’t let it go easily, bombarding Khanin even though his body was sinking into the large pillow, and his eyelids felt heavy, as if struggling against drowsiness.
“I don’t like him.”
“Oh… You’re not allowed to like him. Absolutely not…”
“Why?” Charan asked the question because he wanted to know. The young man attentively waited for an answer, but it seemed like someone had already fallen asleep.
Khanin remained silent, the young man shifted away as if escaping, seemingly losing all awareness, a result of the effect of alcohol.
But in reality… that someone pretended to be drunk to create situations that allow for himself to ask about the things that have been bothering him for days, only to choose to remain silent, keeping his questions within his hearts, without expressing them to anyone.
Khanin smiled and closed his eyes, expressing his satisfaction through his facial expressions, even though he felt a warm tingle throughout his body because he pretended to move, brushing his own cheek against his nose, like a breeze caressing a person’s face, bringing a fragrant scent.
But the heart felt relieved when it learned that the other party didn’t like anyone… he didn’t like a person named Petai.
Why are you forbidden to like Petai?
If you like him, I will be heartbroken!