YOURSKY, Chapter 30
“Rak, my dear, wouldn’t it be easier if we just bought it?”
“If I buy it, how can I call it handmade, Dad?”
“…”
“Plus, it wouldn’t be special.”
“…”
“It’s Phii Fah’s birthday, after all. I want to give him a gift that’s one-of-akind in the world.”
“If Muenfah finds out this gift came at the cost of your dad’s labor, he’d probably feel pretty guilty.”
“Oh… then don’t tell Phii Fah, Dad!”
Theerak stood watching his dad shake his head slightly while picking up a hammer to nail a wooden box. He and his dad had been working on a birthday gift for Muenfah since morning. Theerak prayed this watch storage box would be finished by the day after tomorrow.
Because if it wasn’t done in time Theerak wouldn’t have a gift for his boyfriend.
Since he had to have a special gift for his ultimate boyfriend, Theerak had called and pleaded with his dad to come back during the holiday. At first, his dad refused, saying he had a ton of work to clear this week. But when Theerak mentioned that Muenfah had invited him to the birthday party too, his dad quickly delegated his work to a junior and came back to join Muenfah’s celebration.
“Yesterday, Grandpa told me that a few days ago you were sick, huh?”
Theerak glanced at his dad, hoping Grandpa hadn’t mentioned the part about him tussling with a tiger. “Y-Yes.”
“Take better care of yourself, Rak…” His dad paused before turning to look at him. “…What did Muenfah do when you were sick?”
T___T
Grandpa…
“Uh…”
“Took you to the doctor, right?”
Wahhh… Dad, I nearly jumped out of his skin!
Phii Fah bought medicine for me to take first. He said if the fever didn’t go down, he’d take me to the doctor, but it went down before that… so I didn’t have to go.”
“I knew I wasn’t wrong about him.”
“Phii Fah takes such good care of your son… you have to finish this watch box in time for his birthday.”
“…”
“Using that as an excuse, huh, Rak?”
“Hehe.”
“Has Mom gone to help Aunt make desserts again?”
“Yeah, Grandpa asked Mom to visit Aunt’s house today too.”
“Oh… And where’s your sister? I woke up and didn’t see her.”
“Phii Babe took Moogrob to see Phii Dom’s mom.”
Dad laughed before saying, “Taking her son to visit Grandma, huh?”
“Something like that.”
Theerak heard the sound of an engine pulling up in front of the house and craned his neck to look. He recognized that deep exhaust sound—it definitely wasn’t Phii Dom’s car.
“Who’s that, Rak?”
“I don’t know either.”
“Sounds like a modified car.”
“I’ll go check it out first, okay?”
“If anything happens, shout for me loud and clear, got it?”
Theerak smiled and laughed before stepping out to the front of the house. When he saw a white Benz with a single-digit license plate, he immediately knew whose car it was. Phii Real, dressed handsomely today, stepped out of the car with a cheerful expression, holding a roll of paper in his hand. Theerak raised his hands to greet him with a wai and quickly opened the door to welcome him inside.
Normally, Theerak always greeted Phii Real properly, though there were times he forgot.
“Hello, little one.”
Theerak had a pretty good idea why Phii Real was visiting. Yesterday, he had called to ask Phii Real to help prepare a surprise for Muenfah’s birthday, and he had agreed right away. Phii Real’s reason for joining the plan was, “I want to see that Fah guy grinning ear to ear.”
He had asked Phii Real to make a large fabric banner with a “Happy Birthday” message to hang from the rooftop during the moment Muenfah blew out his cake. Phii Real had said he’d get it done quickly and bring the design to show him the next day. But it seemed he’d finished even sooner, which was why he stopped by earlier.
“…”
“My junior finished it last night, and today I was going to order the banner made. So, I stopped by to show the design to you first, in case you wanted any changes.”
Phii Real unrolled the large sheet of paper. Theerak beamed when he saw the adorably designed “Happy Birthday” banner. Still, he thought it’d be even cuter if it had a picture of the two of them together on it.
Honestly, I’d love it if there was a couple photo of me and Phii Fah on it too.”
“Do you have a couple photo, little one? Send it to me, and I’ll call my junior to add it.”
“I’ve never taken a couple photo with Phii Fah, not even once. Neither of us really likes taking pictures. I forgot to think about how maybe we should’ve taken some couple shots, just in case we needed them for surprises like this on special days.”
“…”
“If I went to Phii Fah’s house now to take a couple photo, he’d definitely catch on that I’m planning a surprise.”
“How about editing? We could take solo photos and edit them together. My junior can do that.”
“No need, it’d be too much trouble for your junior, Phii Real. Next year will do.”
“You sure about that…? If there’s no couple photo on the banner, will you be disappointed, little one?”
Theerak smiled at Phii Real and shook his head. “I won’t be disappointed.
Don’t overthink it, Phii Real.”
“Then we’ll go with this design, okay?”
“Okay…”
“I’ll head back and get it sorted for you right away, little one.”
“Thank you, Phii Real.” Theerak suddenly remembered something and asked, “How much is it? Let me know the cost, Phii Real.”
No worries, I’ll cover it with the restaurant’s budget.”
Theerak laughed brightly and nodded. “Thank you again, Phii Real.”
“My pleasure.”
Theerak was about to walk Phii Real to his car when his phone vibrated in his pocket, making him pause. He pulled it out to check, and Phii Real’s eyes widened when he saw the name on the screen:
‘My Boyfriend’
“Uh, Phii Fah?”
“Fah—Fah’s calling you, little one?”
“Yes.”
Phii Real glanced left and right with a wary expression before turning back to him. “Little one, answer it first. Maybe it’s not what I’m thinking.”
“Y-Yes.”
“…”
[Little one]
“Yes, my boyfriend.”
[You’re at home, right?]
“Yes… Does you need something?” Theerak tried to keep his voice as normal as possible.
[Your dad’s there too, right?]
“I’m at home with Dad, just the two of us. No one’s here, no one’s visited.”
[Heh… You sound like you knew someone might show up.]
Theerak’s eyes widened even more. Phii Real reached over and lightly tapped his phone, signaling him to turn on the speaker. Theerak lowered his hand and switched to speakerphone as instructed.
“No one’s come to see me at all.”
Theerak realized that people who get nervous tend to blurt things out without thinking.
[Someone has. I’m on my way to see you and your dad.]
“What?!”
[I’m coming to see you and your dad.]
“Where’s you at now?”
[Five minutes away from turning into your village.]
“Then I’ll hang up now, Phii Fah. I need to get ready.”
For the first time, he hung up on Muenfah. Theerak was about to tell Phii Real to hurry back, but it seemed they were on the same page—Phii Real nodded without him even saying a word.
“Is there a back exit behind your village, little one?”
“No.”
“Damn it…” Phii Real quickly rolled up his paper and pulled out his car keys, then asked, “Where should I hide?”
“…”
“Fah, I’m not trying to mess with your kitchen, man!”
Seeing how worried Phii Real looked, Theerak tried to help come up with a solution. “Phii Real, you could drive and park at the playground first. People driving in won’t easily see the cars parked there, but you will be able to see when Phii Fah drives into the village.”
“Okay. If Fah turns in and parks in front of your house, I’ll drive out the other way.”
“I think so too.”
“Then I’ll head out first, little one.”
“Yes…”
Theerak stood watching Phii Real hurriedly walk to his car and back out of the alley by their house at top speed. Theerak then rushed inside to tell his dad to pick up the scattered gift-making supplies littering the floor.
“Dad ~”
“What, you chubby pup? Yelling so loud from way over there.”
“Phii Fah’s here!”
“Huh! Muenfah’s here?”
“Y-Yes!”
At that moment, his Dad’s expression was no different from Phii Real’s.
He quickly scooped up the various tools and stuffed them into a metal box. Seeing some wood scraps still on the floor, Theerak hurried to help his dad clean up.
“Why didn’t you tell me you invited Muenfah over, you chubby pup!”
“I didn’t invite him, Dad… ugh, don’t scold me! I’m already panicking enough as it is!”
“Look up at me, then. You think I’m not panicking too?”
Theerak looked up at his dad, who was tidying up with a sweaty face. Dad grabbed the lid of another metal box and started closing them haphazardly.
Theerak was now convinced his dad was truly flustered.
Creak!
But the sound of the door from behind made Theerak freeze mid-action. When he looked up at his dad, he was certain the visitor was Muenfah—Dad was staring at the door without blinking and subtly slid the fully packed box under the coffee table to hide it from the other’s view.
“Hello, sir.”
“Uh, um… bless you, Muenfah.”
Theerak gripped the wood scraps in his hand tightly before turning to the person behind him. Muenfah, dressed impeccably today, stood at the door holding a fruit basket.
“Phii Fah…”
“What’s you doing on the floor?”
“Uh…”
“Well!…Just a moment ago, Rak dropped snacks all over the floor. He’s always like this, eating while walking, so I told him to clean it up before
Mom comes back and nags.”
“Oh…”
Theerak thought Muenfah might catch on to their little act since Dad was speaking louder than necessary. Muenfah nodded, placed the fruit basket on the coffee table in front of Dad, and then crouched down in front of him.
“Let me help clean up.”
“N-No, I already finished cleaning, Phii Fah. Go sit with me instead.”
“Are those snack crumbs in your hand? You can give them to me —I’ll throw them out for you.”
“It’s really fine, Phii Fah.”
“Muenfah!”
Dad spoke loudly again.
T___T
Please act normal for once, Dad.
“Khrapom.” Muenfah replied.
Dad let out a dry laugh before continuing, “You brought so much stuff.”
“Mom asked me to bring some persimmons from Japan to share.”
“Oh? Didn’t Rak say your parents just got back from Hong Kong?”
“Yes, but these persimmons were sent by my aunt in Japan. Mom wanted me to share them with the Niran family too.”
“Oh… Tell your mom thanks. And Muenfah, let Rak take the scraps to throw away.”
“…”
“This chubby puppy can handle it himself, trust me… Come sit and chat with me first.” Dad said, patting the seat next to him with a few loud taps.
“…”
“Go sit and talk with Dad, Phii Fah.” Theerak nodded at Muenfah, who then reluctantly got up to sit on the sofa beside Dad.
Theerak quickly ran to toss the wood scraps in the backyard trash bin before heading back to the living room. He couldn’t help but laugh when he saw Dad chatting with Muenfah while sneakily glancing at the tool box by Muenfah’s feet every now and then.
Dad was probably worried Muenfah might see the tool box.
“Would you like some persimmons, sir? I can cut one for you.” Muenfah offered.
“Uh, sure… That’d be nice. I’ll try one.”
“Then wait just a moment, sir.”
As Muenfah stood up to his full height and bent down to grab a persimmon from the basket, Dad, sitting behind him, quickly winked at Theerak. Theerak frowned, watching Dad point a finger upward. He wasn’t sure what Dad meant.
Was Dad telling him to hide the tool box upstairs while Muenfah cut the persimmon?
“Theerak, want some too? I can grab an extra one for you.” Muenfah asked.
“No thanks, Phii Fah… Just cut one for Dad.”
Muenfah nodded and headed to the kitchen. The moment the tall figure disappeared around the corner, Theerak rushed over to Dad on the sofa.
“Dad, are you telling me to hide the stuff upstairs?”
“No… I want you to take Muenfah up to hang out in your room for an hour.
I need to finish this today, or it won’t be ready for his birthday in time.” “…”
“If he stays down here, I can’t keep working… and it looks like Muenfah plans to stick around for a while.”
“…”
“When Muenfah comes back, take him up to your room, okay?”
“Got it, Dad… But first, I’m going to cheer Phii Fah on while he cuts the persimmon.”
“Just peeling persimmons, and you need to cheer each other on for that?”
“When our partner does something, if you can give them encouragement, you should, Dad.”
Dad blinked rapidly, then nodded. “…I should probably cheer your mom on when she’s cooking too.”
Theerak smiled before getting up and heading into the kitchen. He stopped beside the tall figure peeling persimmons. Theerak grinned to himself, thinking how incredibly handsome his boyfriend looked today. Muenfah had styled his hair back, revealing his perfectly proportioned features. He wore a long-sleeved white shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his tattoo, the hem tucked into faded jeans, and—of course—his favorite watch on his wrist.
“Today, my boyfriend’s making my heart melt.”
“Flirt…” Muenfah said while peeling the persimmon.
The smaller one laughed before stepping behind Muenfah. Theerak peeked toward the doorway to make sure his Dad wasn’t walking by, then wrapped both arms around the taller one from behind. He pressed his face against the broad back and peppered it with kisses to tease and tickle him. But Muenfah didn’t flinch or react at all, except for a low chuckle in his throat as he spoke in a deep voice.
“Rak…”
“Has Dad come by yet?”
“Not yet.”
“Then I can keep teasing you Phii Fah.” Theerak said, resuming his barrage of kisses on Muenfah’s back.
“You’re so bold at home, huh?”
“…”
“When we’re in bed, I don’t see you being this bold.”
Muenfah’s words made Theerak freeze mid-action. He let go of the hug and stood still behind him. His face flushed hot the moment Muenfah brought up their bedroom moments. The taller one must have sensed something off, as he turned around to face him. Muenfah smirked, set the fruit knife down on the plate, and stepped closer. Since Theerak had lowered his gaze, he noticed Muenfah’s hands—both stained with persimmon juice.
Muenfah’s hands were all sticky.
He probably couldn’t do anything to him like this.
Theerak grinned inwardly, realizing he had the upper hand this time. As long as Muenfah couldn’t touch him, there was no way he’d lose. It was time to stop being shy and make Muenfah flustered instead. Theerak looked up to meet his gaze, then stood on his tiptoes to close the height gap. He cupped Muenfah’s face with both hands and nipped at his lower lip with his teeth. The one being teased stood still, showing no expression, which told Theerak that Muenfah was caught off guard and hadn’t expected it.
Theerak figured Muenfah had to be at least a little flustered.
“Phii Fah you better remember!…That I’m the bold one at home. There’s no way you can beat me here.”
He pulled his hands back and tried to mimic Muenfah’s sly smile. His words made Muenfah lower his head, bite his lip, and then step closer toward him.
Right now, Theerak was thinking…
Muenfah wasn’t embarrassed at all.
The taller figure wrapped his thick arm around Theerak’s waist, pulling him into a tight embrace until their bodies pressed close. Theerak tilted his head up to meet those sharp eyes. In just a split second, Muenfah lifted him onto the counter. He briefly glanced at the entrance door before leaning in close. Theerak pursed his lips tightly as Muenfah moved his face toward his ear. He squeezed his eyes shut when sharp teeth lightly nipped at his earlobe.
“I will remember… that I can never beat you when we’re at Niran’s house.”
“…”
“But I will make you remember too… that you can never beat me when we’re in bed.”
“You! Shameless! Fah!”
Muenfah burst out laughing as Theerak protested loudly. With just one arm, he helped him down from the counter. This time, Theerak couldn’t stay too mad at the cheeky guy, because he admitted he’d started it himself.
The chubby puppy just wanted a moment to make Muenfah shy So he could brag about it to others.
But Theerak thought he should abandon that idea.
T___T
#However Many Thousand Skies
“Is it good enough, Dad?”
“Not just good—it’s delicious, really sweet and juicy. If you chilled it and ate it, it’d be so refreshing.”
“When are you heading back to the countryside, Dad?”
“After Muenfah’s birthday. I’ll go back to work then. Can’t leave it for too long. There are a lot of new sergeants who just graduated, and they’re still figuring things out. I have to keep teaching them.”
“Then tomorrow, I will have the driver bring some persimmons for you to take back to the countryside to eat.”
“No need, I already feel bad enough as it is.”
“It’s fine, Dad.”
“Thank you so much, Muenfah.”
Theerak sat watching Muenfah and his dad talk without chiming in, because Muenfah’s words were still swirling in his head: ‘But I will make you remember too… that you can never beat me when we’re in bed.’
Theerak shook his head lightly, trying to shake those words away. At first, he hadn’t felt worried at all about bringing Muenfah up to hang out in his room. But after Muenfah said that, Theerak realized that no matter which bed it was… Muenfah could always win over him.
“Rak… take Muenfah up to hang out in your room. Down here, I keep watching news, and Muenfah might get bored.” Wahhh… Dad!
Phii Fah loves watching the news, honestly!
“I won’t get bored, Dad… Normally, I only watches news.”
“…”
“Oh, really? What kind of news do you watch?”
“I can watch anything, but I especially like watching news about the economy.”
“…”
Dad gave a faint smile and nodded, running out of excuses to send Muenfah upstairs to hang out with him. If Muenfah hadn’t said that, Dad would’ve already found a reason to drag him up to the room by now. But at this moment, the chubby pup like him was afraid of being tackled and knocked out on the bed again.
“Then I won’t watch the news today… it’d just stress me out. Political news lately is especially stressful anyway.”
“…”
“I’ll take a nap instead… you two go hang out upstairs.”
“Dad… can I take a nap too?”
“…”
Dad furrowed his brows at him before continuing, “Go nap upstairs in your room, Rak.”
Theerak sighed before nodding at Dad, who was glaring at him. Now he knew Dad was genuinely worried about not finishing the birthday gift in time—that’s why he was trying so hard to shoo him and Muenfah away. So, Theerak suppressed his own anxiety and spoke up.
“Phii Fah…”
“Yes?”
“Can you take me upstairs for a nap?”
Muenfah looked at him, then at Dad. He must’ve felt too polite to agree right away, but Dad probably guessed as much and nodded in approval. Only then did Muenfah turn back to agree with him.
“I’ll take you up for a nap in a bit, okay?”
“Yes…”
Muenfah stood up to his full height and walked ahead. Theerak turned to wink at Dad as a signal before following Muenfah. Once they reached the room, the taller man flopped onto his bed. Theerak immediately felt wary. The last time Muenfah slept over, he’d tried every trick in the book to lure him onto the bed, but Muenfah wouldn’t budge an inch. Yet today, Muenfah had climbed onto the bed himself without hesitation.
“Theerak, come lie next to me, quick.” Muenfah said, patting the empty space beside him with a few light slaps.
“I don’t want to nap anymore. I’d rather just sit instead.”
Theerak spoke before walking over to sit at the chair by his desk. He was trying his hardest to avoid a repeat of that situation—the marks Muenfah had left on his body still hadn’t fully faded.
If it happened again this time Phii Babe would definitely whack him with a smelling salts tube.
“Are you scared you can’t handle me, little one?”
“To be honest… yes, I’m scared.”
Muenfah burst out laughing before sitting up and leaning against the headboard. Theerak secretly bowed his head and smiled when he saw the taller man grinning widely. He didn’t understand why he felt so shy around his own boyfriend like this.
“Little one… today, I won’t do anything, okay?”
“…”
“Your Dad’s downstairs, so you don’t have to be scared.”
“…”
Theerak thought for a moment. He decided to stay put, but Muenfah pulled out his phone and waved it around as if he wanted to show him something on it.
“My friends keep messaging me nonstop. Wanna see the chat, little one?”
Theerak pressed his lips together to resist the temptation. Muenfah knew exactly how to lure him in. Theerak had once told him he wanted to see how Muenfah talked with his friends in their LINE group, but Muenfah had refused, saying it wasn’t a good idea because there was a lot of crude language and they even sent naughty pictures sometimes.
“Come on, quick, my good boy.”
The smaller one sighed at his own weakness before walking over to sit beside the larger man. Muenfah used both hands to lift him and place him between his legs. Theerak now had a strong chest as a backrest, while Muenfah rested his chin on his head. At that moment, Muenfah’s arms were like a fence surrounding him. He typed messages with both hands while Theerak sat in the middle. Theerak watched the group chat scroll faster than a rushing river, with people sending messages nonstop. He glanced up at the member count.
Oh… There were almost a hundred people in this group!
But the group’s name made Theerak frown.
‘IF YOU’RE NOT AFRAID OF YOUR WIFE… LEAVE OUR GANG.’
“Phii Fah…” Theerak tilted his head up to look at Muenfah, who was still typing. “Who named the LINE group?”
“Top did. My friend from high school.”
“Did Top write it wrong or something?”
“Wrong how?” Muenfah looked away from his phone and leaned down to kiss his lips.
“Shouldn’t it be… ‘If you’re afraid of your wife, leave our gang’ instead?”
Muenfah chuckled in his throat before saying, “I’ll ask Top for you.”
After Muenfah said that, Theerak turned back to the group chat. Everyone was typing back and forth enthusiastically. Most of what Theerak saw was them talking about their partners—some complained about getting scolded by their girlfriends, others whined about missing their partners because they couldn’t be together over the holidays. Theerak thought this group was more for venting than anything else.
Sky’s Beloved: Top
Touch: Everyone stop! Phii Fah’s here…
Top1: What’s up, Fah, my friend?
Sky’s Beloved: My boyfriend’s asking if you got the group name wrong.
“Phii Fah…” Theerak looked up at Muenfah, worried that his friends might get upset at the question.
“Top replied. Take a look.”
Top1: No, no, it’s not wrong.
Top1: If you’re in this group, you have to fear your wife. If you don’t, then get out of our gang.
Sky’s Beloved: Then I guess I won’t get kicked out.
Sky’s Beloved: Because I’m super scared of my wife.
Top1: Yep.
Pop: You just joined not long ago, but you’ve already outdone us in the wife-fearing department.
Sky’s Beloved: You guys are weak as hell. You can’t keep up with me. Soda: Seriously? I kinda hate this LINE group sometimes.
Soda: What the hell? Where else do people flex about being scared of their wives?
Top1: LOLOLOL
Pop: Damn, Top is legit terrified.
Top1: If my wife tells me to buy mangoes with shrimp paste, even if I’m in the middle of a RoV match, I’d have to jump up and go get it.
Top1: I’m scared she’ll go buy it herself and come back to smack me with an unripe mango.
Touch: Unripe mangoes are the ones with a hole in the middle, right?
My wife loves eating those.
Pop: Yeah, you dumbass Touch, they’re called “hole mangoes.”
LOLOL
Top1: Even if the shrimp paste stinks, I have to say it smells good, or she’ll sulk.
Lei: I feel so bad for Top, damn it.
Top1: No need to pity me. I chose this path.
Pop: Anyone else dealing with the same problem as Top?
Sky’s Beloved: Me.
“Phii Fah…” Theerak looked up at Muenfah again before saying, “I don’t eat mangoes with shrimp paste, though. What problem are you facing, Phii
Fah?”
Muenfah didn’t answer, just laughed softly. So, Theerak turned back to read the chat.
Top1: What are you struggling with?
Lei: We can give advice, you know, as veterans of wife-fearing.
Sky’s Beloved: He’s too cute.
Sky’s Beloved: What do I do?
At that moment, Theerak pressed his lips together to suppress a smile. Muenfah laughed, leaned down, and kissed his cheek with a loud smack, whispering softly “What should I do?…Can my boyfriend give me some advice?”
Lei: -___-
Pop: Brace yourself, because our wives just keep getting cuter every day.
Top1: Fah, that Lei made a group called “Hopelessly in Love with My Wife” or something.
Top1: You should join that one too.
Sky’s Beloved: Already did.
Lei: You’d fit right in there too.
Muenfah laughed and left this chat group. He quickly scrolled through his
LINE groups with his finger, but Theerak caught a glimpse of one called
“20+ SUPER EXPLICIT” among them. The rest were just normal groups about cars or friends with regular names.
“I’d better read this group chat instead.”
Theerak fell silent and scrolled to read the group name first. He let out a sigh when he realized this chat group probably wasn’t much different from the last one—it’d likely embarrass him so much he’d want to explode, just the same.
‘HOPELESSLY IN LOVE WITH MY WIFE’
Tag: Have you fallen for your wife today?
L: If you haven’t fallen yet, get out. Didn’t you see the group name?
Sky’s Beloved: I’m hopelessly gone, can I stay?
L: For Muenfah, who’s been screened and confirmed to be ridiculously smitten, you can stay.
Mo: That day I went to Noe’s birthday party, and Fah’s boyfriend showed up at the shop too.
L: I didn’t go. How was it? Cute, right?
Mo: Totally your type.
Mo: Looks so cuddly.
Sky’s Beloved: Wait till I stomp this whole damn group, you jerk!
Mo: Sorry, sorry, buddy.
“Let’s switch groups.”
Theerak looked up at the taller figure, who spoke with a hint of irritation.
He laughed when he saw Muenfah’s slightly annoyed expression.
Khun Muenfah, the jealous one…
“Not annoyed, okay, my good one?”
“…”
Kiss…
Theerak gave a peck to the sulky taller figure, hoping it’d cheer him up a bit.
“One more kiss might fix the grumpiness.”
Theerak laughed heartily before kissing those full lips again.
Kiss…
“Grumpiness gone now.”
“…”
“Want to read any other LINE groups, little one?…But not the 20+ one, okay?”
“I don’t look at that group anyway—I’m not the naughty type.”
Muenfah laughed and leaned down to nuzzle his forehead with his nose. “There’s got to be a little naughtiness, or how else would I know how to please you?”
“I’m done talking to you Phii Fah…” Theerak quickly turned back to the screen, feeling shy again.
“Heh.”
But a new LINE message popped up, making Theerak’s eyes widen as he pointed at the screen. The sender’s name was ‘Ai’Hia, Not the Jerk Your Friends Call Me,’ but it seemed Muenfah didn’t want him to pay attention to it. He made a move to exit the chat and put the phone away.
“Phii Fah… I want to read that group chat from earlier.”
“That group’s full of bad people, little one. Don’t read it.”
“…”
Theerak looked up at the taller man with a pleading expression. Muenfah sighed before nodding and opening the LINE group for him to see. Theerak grinned widely when he realized he knew almost everyone in the group— plus, Phii Dom was there too.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Where are you guys?
Real: Some of us have jobs, you idiot!
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Real, did you even read my question?
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: I get that you’re stressed from work, but don’t forget Red Water isn’t your emotional punching bag.
Noni: LOLOLOLOLOL
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Laughing at your dad, huh, No?
Noni: YOUR dad.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: My dad’s name is Muenfah.
“Phii Fah… send a sticker, please, so the seniors know we’re reading.”
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Wait! Today, LINE shows everyone’s read it.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Dad, are you secretly reading?
Sky’s Beloved: Yeah, you jerk.
Ball: LOLOLOL
Domebabe: Fah, are you with Theerak?
Muenfah didn’t type a reply to Phii Dom. Instead, he opened the camera and snapped a selfie of the two of them to send. Theerak looked at the photo Muenfah sent, thinking it’d be perfect to stick on a birthday sign.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Little brooooo!
Probably because Ai’Hia called out to him, Muenfah opened the camera again and took a shot of himself kissing Theerak on the lips, sending it to the group. Theerak’s eyes widened in shock before he turned to see the chat flooding like a waterfall.
Theerak thought…
The waterfall… was probably Ai’Hia’s tears.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: T___T
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Dad and little bro.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Dad kissing little bro.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: LOLOLOLOLOLOL Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Red Water’s okay, huh.
Noni: He’s totally lost it.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Honestly, I want to throw my phone down and stomp on it, but I can’t because it’s got pics of Dad and little bro.
Real: Why the hell would you stomp on your phone?
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: To punish it.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: Punish it for letting this pic reach me.
Ball: LOLOLOL. I really feel bad for Red Water.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: My heart’s shattered.
Ai’Hia Himself, Not the Jerk Friends Call Me: I don’t mind if Dad doesn’t love me, but don’t hurt me like this.
Hian himself: Dad knows you’re the only one who can break Hia’s heart.
Theerak giggled while reading the siblings’ chat. He wasn’t sure what he’d done to upset Muenfah, but the latter abruptly exited the chat, stuffed his phone into his pants pocket, then pushed him down onto the bed and straddled him.
“No, Phii Fah!”
“So cute, huh?” Muenfah cupped his face with both hands, leaned down, and showered his lips with rapid kisses until Theerak burst out laughing. “Really cute, right?”
Theerak realized Muenfah was just playfully teasing him.
“Phii Fah ~”
“You’re so cute that others fall for you, huh?”
“…”
Every time Muenfah finished a question, he’d shower him with more kisses. Knowing he couldn’t stop him, Theerak let Muenfah kiss him to his heart’s content. Soon enough, the larger man stopped, locking eyes with him before saying “I don’t want anyone else messing with Theerak.”
“There, there, my sky.” Theerak cooed, wrapping his arms around the thick neck. The fiercely possessive man softened, resting his face against Theerak’s neck. Theerak laughed as he heard the muffled voice.
“Can you stop being so cute?”
“…”
“Theerak can only be cute with Phii Fah, okay?”
Muenfah’s voice was so gentle and pleading that it melted his heart completely.
Theerak laughed, thinking…
The capable Muenfah had turned into the clingy Muenfah.
On his bed… Muenfah could never win.
#However Many Thousand Skies
“Khun Rak, your cake, sir.”
“Thank you…”
Theerak took the specially ordered cake from the staff before walking out of the bakery. As soon as he got into the car, he opened the box to check the cake. He grinned widely when he saw the fondant figures of Muenfah sitting with an arm around him on top of the cake. Cartoon-style sculpted cakes like this were super popular right now, so he’d ordered one to surprise Muenfah.
Yesterday, after Muenfah left, Theerak had called Phii Real to plan again. At Muenfah’s birthday party, there’d be the usual cake-blowing, but Theerak would secretly bring this cake to surprise him with a second round after the older guests had left. Once Muenfah blew out the candles, they’d release a “Happy Birthday” banner from Fah’s rooftop.
Bzzzt ~
Theerak looked away from the cake in front of him, pulled out his phone, and answered the call.
“Yes, Phii Real?”
[I’ve prepared everything already, okay? Yesterday, I took the couple photo of you and Fah from the LINE group and added it to the banner.
I’ve also assigned tasks to everyone.]
“Okay, Phii Real.”
[I’ll be the one giving the signal to everyone about when to bring out the cake. Ball will drop the banner from Fah’s rooftop, waiting for the signal from Dom.]
“…”
[Hia will push the cart with the cake out, but he has to wait for the signal from No. As for you, little one, you’ll carry the gift and walk out cutely with Hia’s group… I mean, follow behind that toilet water girl.]
Theerak held back a laugh before saying, “Got it, Phii Real.”
[Then see you this evening, little one.]
“Okay…”
After hanging up with Phii Real, Theerak quickly drove home to prepare the special gift for Muenfah tonight. Once he arrived, he hurried to put the cake in the fridge before excusing himself from Dad to head upstairs.
Theerak sat at his desk, looking at the polished wooden box in front of him. All that was left was to paint and add some colorful details.
Theerak was an art student, so this was a piece of cake for him. The hardest part—assembling the box—had already been handled by Dad.
When it came to woodworking… Dad was the expert.
The smaller one pulled out a paint tray from the drawer and prepared his brushes to draw patterns on the watch box. If anyone said he didn’t make this box, Theerak would get mad and refuse to talk to them for two hours because he had a hand in this gift too.
Dad assembled the box and Theerak painted and decorated it.
Theerak contributed too, okay?
“Theerak, what time are you going to Muenfah’s birthday party today?”
Theerak looked away from the box to the door, trying to suppress a smile so Dad wouldn’t feel shy. Dad had been dressed up since noon. “Around 7 p.m., Dad.”
Oh? I saw Babe and Dom leave this morning. Aren’t they going to Muenfah’s place first?”
“Phii Babe and Phii Dom went to pick up a gift for Phii Fah.”
“Oh… then I’ll go turn on the AC and wait, I guess.”
“Okay, Dad.” Once Dad walked away, Theerak finally let out a laugh. Dad was definitely going to turn on the AC and wait—he was wearing a longsleeved frosted-colored shirt and jeans. He must be roasting.
After Theerak finished preparing the special gift, he took another shower. He decided to wear the overalls he’d worn to the beach because Muenfah had said they were cute. While getting dressed, Theerak glanced at his phone, which buzzed with notifications. He knew they were messages from friends in a LINE group, not from his boyfriend. Earlier that morning, Muenfah had texted him, saying he’d be very busy today and might not have time to message or call much. There were a lot of older relatives attending the event, and Muenfah had to prepare the venue and ensure the food was perfect. He’d be waiting for Theerak at the restaurant. Understanding this, Theerak sent an encouraging reply. He walked over to his desk and looked at the frosted watch box decorated with tiny clouds and suns scattered all over it.
Theerak smiled as he thought…
This box… is full of my love, isn’t it, Phii Fah?
#However Many Thousand Skies
Theerak turned his car into the parking area of the restaurant owner. He drove separately from his dad because he’d be staying late. His dad, mom, and grandpa had just pulled up beside him. Theerak grabbed the gift and the bag with the cake box before getting out of the car. He hurried over to help support his grandpa, who had just opened the door to step out.
Chubby puppy, I can walk…”
“…”
“Earlier, when I drove past the VIP parking zone… it was all sports cars.”
“Most of them belong to Phii Fah’s friends, Dad.”
“Muenfah moves in really high-society circles, doesn’t he? But he’s such a good person—it’s almost unbelievable,” his dad said as he walked beside him.
“True,” his mom chimed in.
“At first, I thought he’d be one of those spoiled rich kids—handsome, wealthy, and just partying all the time.”
“…”
“I was completely wrong. The more I get to know him, the more polite and sincere he seems.”
“Do you remember what I taught you, Rit?”
Everyone walking into the shop turned to look at Grandpa in unison. His dad nodded and said, “Yes, I remember.”
“…”
“The more we realize we have prejudices, the more we need to open our hearts.”
“Exactly… because when we’re prejudiced, we forget everything. Even if something is good, we’ll see it as bad.”
“…”
But if we open our hearts while still holding those prejudices, it helps us stay mindful. In the end, we’ll see the truth.”
“But back then, I didn’t have any prejudice against Muenfah, Dad.”
“I know… I just wanted to remind you. In case someday you develop a bias against someone, if they turn out to be a true friend or someone worth keeping, you won’t lose a good person.”
“…”
“I’m not just warning you Rit—I’m warning everyone.”
“I’ll keep it in mind, Grandpa,” Theerak said. Grandpa reached out to pat his head. Theerak smiled at Grandpa and led him into the shop through the back door. While everyone was exploring Muenfah’s restaurant, Theerak walked over to hand a bag containing a cake box to an employee whom Phii Real had instructed to wait. Then, he followed his parents and Grandpa inside the event.
Today, Muenfah’s shop was decorated especially beautifully. Normally, the atmosphere in the shop was already great, but today it was even better because he could feel the warmth. Muenfah had hung small yellow lights around the large tree in the center of the shop and on Fah’s deck. Every table was covered with a white cloth and had a vase of lilies placed on it, while the chairs were adorned with silver bows tied to their backs.
Muenfah’s birthday celebration was elegant and very formal. Theerak scanned the room, looking for the host. He spotted a tall figure greeting the adult guests at the front entrance. Today, Muenfah looked as good as ever. He was wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his tattoo, the hem tucked into black jeans. Muenfah wore polished, pointed-toe leather shoes in a burnt brown color. He hadn’t styled his hair up but let his chocolate-colored locks fall naturally. Theerak smiled when he noticed the favorite watch on Muenfah’s wrist before glancing down at the watch box in his own hand.
When Theerak looked up again to see the tall figure, a smile as radiant as the morning sun began approaching him closer and closer. Muenfah was walking toward him. Theerak had thought the world would stop spinning only when he first fell in love, but now he realized that in life, there would be one person who was an exception for him. Even if that feeling could only happen once, there would be one person who could make it happen again and again—just like how Muenfah made him fall in love repeatedly.
“Theerak.”
“Yes…” Theerak smiled at the person in front of him.
Muenfah looked at him and the gift in his hand before raising his hands to pay respects to his father, mother, and grandfather. “Hello, sir, ma’am, Grandpa.”
Everyone nodded in acknowledgment and looked at Muenfah with the same kind of gaze they often used with him. Grandpa had once said it was a look of pride. Theerak thought everyone must be proud of Muenfah for being a good person with a bright future at such a young age.
By now, Muenfah had earned more than just acceptance…
“Please, the table inside is reserved for the adults. I have already prepared it.”
“…”
“My parents are waiting for sir, ma’am, and Grandpa.”
“Oh, really?…” Grandpa raised his eyebrows. “In that case, we’d better hurry. It’s not good to keep them waiting.”
“I will have an employee escort you there.”
“Thank you, dear,” his mother said, lightly touching Muenfah’s arm before following the employee.
Theerak watched his father, mother, and grandfather head to the table inside with Fah’s parents. He felt a slight worry but thought they would likely get along well since Fah’s parents were kind and lovely people. They would surely fit in easily with his cheerful family.
“Theerak, you don’t have to worry,” said Phii Fah. “I believe that within an hour, you all will get along so well that you won’t stop talking.”
Theerak nodded and smiled at Muenfah before saying, “I have brought a very special gift for you too.”
“What’s this box?” Muenfah asked. “…It’s as cute as the person giving it.”
Theerak held back a smile. Muenfah must have forgotten that they were already a couple, which was why he was still flirting with him. “It’s a box to store my boyfriend’s watch,” Theerak replied.
“But your boyfriend has so many watches,” Muenfah said before leaning down to kiss his cheek. “Did you only make one box?”
“I will make one for you every year,” Theerak said.
“I’m just kidding, Theerak,” Muenfah replied. “One box is enough… just to keep this one watch.” As he spoke, Muenfah raised his hand to take off his watch and said, “Wanna try putting it on for me.”
“Sure…”
Muenfah took the box, slid the lid open, placed the watch inside, and handed it to Theerak to see. Theerak felt an indescribable warmth seeing Muenfah’s cherished possession inside the box that he and his father had carefully crafted.
“This watch was bought for you by your mom, right?” Theerak asked.
“Yes, she bought it as a birthday gift,” Muenfah replied.
“That’s why you love this watch so much, isn’t it?” Theerak continued.
“Part of the reason I love this watch so much is because my Mom bought it for me,” Muenfah explained. “But there’s another reason why it has to be this watch that I always wear with me.”
As he spoke, Muenfah picked up the watch and showed Theerak the clasp. Theerak blinked in surprise when he saw the Chinese character “爱” [love] engraved on it.
“…”
“Back then, I hadn’t fallen in love with you yet,” Muenfah said. “I hadn’t even met you. But Mom chose to engrave this word because it matches the meaning of my real name… And when I had lost faith in love, I chose to tattoo this word too.” “…”
“I think… Rak Niran, must have been meant for me, truly,” Muenfah said.
“…”
“Theerak, you are the most valuable gift in my life,” Muenfah said.
Theerak pressed his lips together, feeling a sting in his nose. He didn’t understand why he had become so emotional and sensitive, but upon reflection, he realized it was because every action and word from Muenfah came sincerely from the heart. That was why Theerak could feel the overwhelming emotions of the other so deeply.
“…”
“Theerak of mine,” Muenfah said before wrapping his arms around him in an embrace.
Theerak nodded and hugged the taller man back. Today, he resolved not to let any tears fall—not even to let them well up at the edges of his eyes. He believed there was no need to shed tears at his boyfriend’s birthday celebration.
“Love you so much, Phii Fah.”
“Khrapom.”
#However May Thousand Skies
Muenfah led him to a long table that could seat twenty people. Theerak scanned the row of Muenfah’s friends sitting there. He blinked rapidly. Seeing his boyfriend’s friends, Muenfah had so many friends that it shocked him. Theerak knew Muenfah was a social person, but he didn’t expect him to have this many friends, especially since Muenfah was always glued to him, making him seem like someone without friends. “Little one…”
“Ai’Hia! Do you want to get kicked by Muenfah?” Phii Noh said.
Hia shook his head before sliding an empty chair. Muenfah had him sit at the corner of the table across from Phii Babe, while he sat in the chair next to Phii Real. As soon as he sat down, Theerak grabbed the gift box from Muenfah’s hands and hugged it tightly. He needed to take this gift to join the surprise process first, even though Muenfah had already seen it. The reason Theerak didn’t wrap it or hide it beforehand was that he figured Muenfah already knew he had a gift for him. Giving the gift to him earlier would help ensure Muenfah wouldn’t suspect the additional surprise.
Muenfah might think the gift was the end of it.
But in reality… Theerak had more surprises in store.
After eating and chatting for a while, Muenfah got up to prepare to blow out the candles in the area where the older relatives were. All the friends, including Theerak, joined in singing. At this point, a crowd had gathered around Muenfah. The mom holding the cake for Muenfah let go of one hand from the tray and waved at him, but Theerak didn’t dare approach since it was all Muenfah’s relatives.
However, Muenfah walked over, took his hand, and pulled him into the circle, wrapping an arm around his waist. The relatives cheered and teased until Theerak felt his face flush with heat.
“That grandson has a boyfriend now!”
“Fah, let the little one blow out the candles too!”
Theerak pressed his lips together tightly while staring at the candle flames. He thought the growing heat on his face wasn’t from the warmth of the candles but rather from the relatives’ comments.
“Happy birthday to you… Happy birthday to you…”
“Happy birthday to you… Happy birthday to you…”
Theerak clapped and sang for Muenfah one last time.
“Happy birthday… Happy birthday…”
At that moment, Theerak stood on his tiptoes to gain a bit of height before whispering the final line of the song into Muenfah’s ear.
“Happy birthday to you, Muenfah…”
The big guy broke into a smile before blowing out the candles. He went to hug his mom while still keeping an arm around Theerak’s shoulders. The mom, holding the cake, had tears in her eyes as she kissed her son’s cheek with a loud smack. Then she waved at his close friend standing nearby to come over. Panli got a kiss on the cheek from the mom, leaving a pink lipstick mark on his face.
“Ma… you like to tease me, huh?”
“Why, huh… are you afraid someone might see and misunderstand?”
Panli laughed and walked over to pinch his cheek once before returning to stand beside him, as close as before. Theerak saw his friend sitting in the middle of the table, which had been close for a while now. Even with others around, he still liked to tease him constantly. Just a moment ago, before blowing out the cake candles, Panli had been scolded by Muenfah for stopping by to pinch his cheek after coming back from the bathroom.
“Li, you naughty dog face, never changes…”
“Have lots of happiness, okay, Muenfah?”
Theerak shifted his gaze from Panli to follow the familiar voice. His father walked in to give blessings to Muenfah along with his mother. His grandfather followed shortly after and reached out to gently pat Muenfah on the shoulder.
“Mom wishes for Fah to have all his hopes fulfilled in everything, okay?”
“Thank you, Dad, Mom.”
Muenfah looked at his father and mother before shifting his gaze to his grandfather. Theerak felt a stinging sensation in his nose again when he saw his grandfather hug Muenfah instead of giving verbal blessings. Muenfah let go of the arm that was around his shoulder and hugged his grandfather back. At that moment, Theerak saw his mother wipe away tears while his father held her shoulders.
“Thank you, Muenfah.”
“…”
“Thank you for being born as my grandson.”
“Yes, Grandpa.”
“How much I love Rak… that’s how much I love you Muenfah too.”
“I love you Grandpa too.”
Theerak had never thought before that love could make him feel so happy and fulfilled like this. But he knew well that if the person he loved wasn’t Muenfah… everyone might not be this happy.
Theerak smiled faintly…
Once again, he wanted to say this sentence.
And he got to say it on Muenfah’s birthday.
“Thank you for being born, Phii Fah.”
Muenfah, hearing his soft voice, turned around and hugged him.
“Thank you for being born as a gift for me.”
#However Many Thousand Skies
After all the elder relatives had left, including his family, Muenfah had the staff start serving alcohol to everyone. He probably knew his friends liked to drink until they were blackout drunk, which is why he told Phii Real to clear out the storage room at the back of the shop. If anyone got too drunk to go home, they could rest in the storage room instead.
Muenfah himself drank too…
Theerak watched the tall figure lift a glass of liquor and down it. In that moment, he secretly winked at Phii Real, who was about to start the plan.
When Theerak saw Hia blinking rapidly—it looked more like dust had gotten in his eyes than a signal—he almost burst out laughing. But he had to hold it in before saying “Phii Fah, I need to go to the bathroom first, okay?”
“Should I go with you?”
“No need, I can go alone.”
“Uh… sit with me for a bit,” said another friend of Muenfah, someone Theerak had never met before. It seemed like this guy was part of the plan, as he spoke to stall Muenfah and secretly winked at Theerak.
“Alright… but I will have a guard watch over things,” Muenfah said before raising his hand to call over a large guard stationed at the front of the shop.
“My boyfriend is going to the restroom. Please keep an eye on him.”
“Yes, Khun Fah.”
Theerak gave a faint smile to Muenfah’s guard before walking over to take his position. He turned to the tall guard, who furrowed his brows as if confused. Theerak decided to tell him the truth.
“Hey, I’m not actually going to the restroom. I’m about to surprise Phii
Fah. Could you stand here with me for now?”
“…”
“Please don’t tell Phii Fah just yet, okay?”
The guard hesitated slightly before nodding in agreement. “Alright, Khun Rak.”
Theerak stood at the designated meeting spot, a place with the clearest view of the stage. Phii Real had said that Hia would push out a cart with the cake, and then No would follow. However, at that moment, Theerak was standing there alone.
“Kid… Hia is here.”
“Hia…”
Theerak turned to see Hia pushing a cart with his cake on it, emerging from one area of the shop. No came running out, panting, and quickly took a position in front of Hia to watch for signals from Phii Real. Suddenly, Theerak felt his heart pounding so hard it seemed like it might explode. Perhaps it was because he had never surprised Muenfah before, combined with his fear that Muenfah might catch on too soon.
“Damn it, push it out now!”
“Okay…”
“Wait!…” Noh, who had just given the order to push the cart, raised his hand to stop again. “Real said to hold off.”
Theerak and Hia, who were about to step forward, froze and waited for the next instruction. Theerak took a deep breath and turned to smile at Hia, who was looking at him.
“You’re adorable, kid… I, Hia loves you.”
Theerak tried to suppress a laugh. Hia’s humorous nature helped ease his nerves. “Push the cart carefully, okay, Phii Hia?”
“Aww… kid, cheer me on too! I will deliver the cake to your boyfriend perfectly.”
“Thank you!”
“Push it out now!”
“Kid, let’s go.”
“Okay…”
“Wait, hold on!”
Theerak nearly stumbled as he stopped in his tracks. He blinked rapidly and craned his neck to see what was happening. Hia, unable to hold back, finally spoke up.
“Damn it, Noh! What the hell are you doing with the signals? You’ve messed up twice already!”
“Real told me to go, so I told you to go. Then he said to stop, so I had to tell you to stop, didn’t I?”
“What the hell is wrong with you guys?”
“Can you just push the cart without complaining… Ball keeps standing up and sitting down, putting up signs on the rooftop, working harder than you, and he’s not even complaining.”
“Fine… everything I do is wrong.”
“Come out already.”
“Finally…”
“Wait, hold on!”
“Ugh… what’s wrong with you guys? Can I go pee first? I’ll come back and push it again. Do you think I’m not excited, you jerk!”
“…”
“If you don’t let me out this time, I’ll eat Muenfah sugar figurine, but I’ll keep Nong Theerak’s figurine.”
“Keep it for me, right?”
“Keep dreaming, you jerk! I’ll keep it to cuddle with.”
Your name’s bad enough, don’t let your personality be bad too.”
“You’re so great, huh, Ai’Hia.”
“You’re eating your friend’s cake too, greedy.”
Normally, Theerak would laugh at their conversation, but this time he felt something was off. He was about to walk out to check for himself, but his phone vibrated with a notification, making him pause and pull it out to look.
“Yes, Phii Real?”
[Little one, I think we’ve been double-crossed.]
“Double-crossed, sir?”
[It’s like Fah figured out we were planning a surprise. He won’t stay still—sitting for a moment, then getting up and walking around again… going to refill his drink, then chatting with friends.]
“…”
[Right now, Fah’s heading to the stage. I think he’s going to do something before we can surprise him.]
“…”
[That’s all for now, little one. Fah’s calling me.]
“Okay.”
Theerak hung up, placed the watch box on the cart, and walked over to stand in front of Phii Noh so he could get a clearer view of the tall figure on stage. Muenfah was standing on the stage. Soon after, Panli went up to take his position as the drummer. Theerak frowned when he saw Phii Real carrying electric guitar onto the stage. Phii Dom went up to play the bass, and another friend of Muenfah stood at electric keyboard.
Normally, the birthday person gets surprised, but today, I will surprise his boyfriend instead.”
“Whoo-hoo!”
Theerak shook his head slightly, realizing they’d been found out, before breaking into a smile when he saw the tall figure pointing at him. Theerak waved to Phii Hia to wheel out the cake cart. As he walked closer to the stage, the music started playing, and the small figure grinned widely the moment he recognized the familiar melody.
‘Do you know when we first met, when those memories began, when it was that made both of us start to feel something?’
The lyrics of this part made Theerak turn to look at the glasshouse room. He recalled the time when they first ate together, before continuing to walk and stopping at a comfortable distance—neither too close nor too far from the stage.
“Or perhaps when you had to lie down in sorrow, or when we had to be apart, it made me realize that I only think of you.”
“…”
“And at this moment, at this time, after years have passed, let the stars be like witnesses to our love.”
“…”
But then Muenfah stopped singing and jumped down from the stage. He walked over and stopped in front of him, giving him the same familiar smile. Theerak pressed his lips together before swallowing something down his throat. Muenfah let out a soft laugh, using just one arm to hug him before raising the microphone to sing the next part.
I promise to love only you, to love just you, to love only you forever, for eternity, I’ll love only you, I’ll love just you, I want to have only you.”
Theerak had promised himself he wouldn’t shed a tear at Muenfah’s birthday, but at this moment, he couldn’t keep that promise. Theerak let the tears flow before hugging the bigger man back. Muenfah gently rubbed his shoulder while singing.
“On the nights when we were filled with loneliness, when you came close to me, it felt warm like a fire in the cold, and at this moment, at this time, after years have passed, let the stars be like witnesses that…”
“…”
“I promise to love only you, to love just you, to love only you forever, for eternity, I’ll love only you, I’ll love just you, and I’ll have only you.”
“…”
Theerak tightened his embrace around Muenfah even more…
“Forget the painful stories we’ve been through, throw them away far behind, and tomorrow there will be only us, no one will be lonely, no one will be sad, the two of us walking side by side.”
“…”
Muenfah stopped singing and used his thick hand to lift Theerak’s chin so their eyes could meet, because Theerak had been burying his face to hold back his tears. He felt that it was more than just a song.
Muenfah was making a promise to him…that he would love only Theerak.
“Theerak…”
“…”
Will you celebrate my birthday with me, every year?” Muenfah said before pulling something out of his pocket. He took out a silver ring and continued, “If you agree… I will put this ring on you as a symbol of our promise.”
“…”
Theerak roughly wiped his tears with his hand before nodding in agreement. Everyone at the event cheered loudly in celebration. Muenfah took his hand and slipped the ring onto his left ring finger. Then he reached into his pants pocket, pulled out another ring, and prepared to put it on himself.
“Phii Fah…”
“Yes?”
Muenfah, who was about to put on the ring himself, paused. It was at that moment that Theerak’s tears flowed again. He wasn’t crying because he received a promise ring, but because no matter how much time passed, Muenfah never demanded anything from him. Even when it came to putting on the ring, he chose to do it himself without asking Theerak to put it on for him.
“Can I put the ring on you too?”
Muenfah nodded and handed him the ring. As soon as the large ring was on the same ring finger as his, the tall man pulled him into a hug. Theerak hugged Muenfah back and pressed his face against the strong chest. Muenfah leaned down, pressing his nose to smell his head.
“Ball, released the banner.”
“…”
“Woo ~”
Theerak pulled away from the hug with Muenfah and turned to look at the “Happy Birthday” banner they had prepared as a surprise for him. But now, it was Theerak who ended up being surprised. The birthday banner was frosted in color, with a long message that read, “Happy Birthday, Sky’s Beloved,” and most importantly, it featured a photo of the two of them that Phii Real had taken from the group chat yesterday.
“The banner is so cute!”
“Woo ~”
“my boyfriend is damn cute, even putting my photo on it.”
Theerak smiled and laughed while hugging Muenfah. He waved to Hia to bring the cake closer. Muenfah, who had his arm around his shoulder, stared at the cake before leaning down to press his nose to his head again.
“The cake is as cute as you, my sea.”
“Does you like it?”
“I like it.”
“Muenfah…”
“What the hell?”
“I just wanted to say… Happy Birthday.”
“…”
“Even though I really wants to eat the sugar figure of you, I’ll hold back because I want you to sit on the cake with my little brother.”
“Who chose to bring the damn cake to me?”
“Me. We were short on people, so I had to bring this toilet water over.”
“Next time, don’t bother. I can walk over and blow out the candles myself.”
“Muen… this is me, Hia, your own son.”
When Theerak saw Phii Real, he suddenly remembered this and asked, “Phii Real… did you team up with Phii Fah to trick me, right?”
“No, little one. I went up to play the guitar because Fah forced me to. I had no idea he was going to sing a surprise song.”
Theerak looked up at the tall figure who was holding his shoulders, wanting to know how Muenfah had figured out the plan. If it wasn’t Phii Real who had told him, Muenfah chuckled in his throat before leaning down to kiss him on the lips. If they were alone, Theerak wouldn’t feel too shy, but at that moment, hundreds of eyes were watching them.
“I knew there was going to be a surprise because Real was acting suspicious. He kept avoiding eye contact with me and kept looking toward my deck, even though he usually doesn’t pay much attention to it… So I figured someone must be planning a surprise for me.”
“…”
“And the only person I could think of was Theerak.”
“…”
“But that day when you and your dad were acting suspicious, it wasn’t about preparing a surprise for the birthday sign, right?”
“No, it wasn’t…” Theerak turned to pick up the watch box from the cart and handed it to Muenfah. “That day, I asked Dad to help assemble the watch box for you. But when you came into the house unexpectedly, Dad and I hurriedly hid the tools.”
“Oh…”
“Hold on, I want to go off-topic for a bit.”
“…”
“There’s no watch belonging to Muen in that box, right?”
Theerak slid the lid of the box open and pulled out Muenfah’s favorite watch to show him. Ever since Muenfah had taken off the watch and placed it in the box, he hadn’t worn it again. He had been carrying the box around, even with an expensive watch inside.
“There is, Phii Fah left his watch in it,” Theerak said as he handed the watch back to Muenfah, who took it and put it back on his wrist as usual.
“Noh!! You idiot!”
“Why are you yelling at Noh?” Phii Real asked.
“Just now, he told me to hide the box… Imagine the situation. If the box and the watch went missing, I would probably get beaten to death by Muen.”
“I’d stomp him into the ground.”
“No need to bury him, Fah. Just one kiss from you, and Hia wouldn’t be able to breathe.”
Everyone burst into laughter before dispersing to their seats after the surprise was over. Muenfah led him back to their original spot. Theerak still had one more question, so he asked.
“Phii Fah… Was it because you knew I was going to surprise you that you came up with this counter-plan?”
“No, I ordered a pair of matching rings last week, intending to give them to you at my birthday event. But I didn’t want to just hand them over plainly. I thought… if I sang a song for you too, it would be a good memory for both of us.”
“…”
“Honestly, I didn’t know when the surprise was going to happen. But because Real kept acting suspicious and waving his hands around, I figured he must be signaling something. So I pretended to move around restlessly… to surprise you first.”
“You’re such a sly sky, aren’t you?”
Muenfah smiled softly and leaned down to kiss his forehead once. He then turned to his friends who were calling him. Theerak glanced at the side profile of his lover, now adorned with a smile, and thought to himself… for Muenfah’s birthday this year he wished for Muenfah to smile a lot.
“Shall we go?”
“Let me ask Theerak first…”
Theerak looked at Muenfah, who turned to face him, and asked, “Where are we going, Phii Fah?”
“Ball and the gang invited us to the beach again. Probably to my uncle’s resort, as usual.”
Theerak’s eyes widened with excitement, and he nodded eagerly. “Let’s go, Phii Fah… I want to go to the beach again.”
Muenfah bit his lip, then leaned down to whisper softly in his ear, “But this time, it’s for three days and two nights.”
Theerak fell silent, pondering. If he stayed overnight this time, Phii Babe would definitely not let him go, fearing something might happen. So, Theerak would have to convince his older sister to come along. Only then could he go to the beach with Muenfah.
“Babe… let’s go to the beach together on Friday.”
However, it was Muenfah who invited Phii Babe first. The older sister, sitting across from them, furrowed her brows as if deep in thought, before nodding in agreement after being pleaded with by Phii Dom to join the beach trip.
“Hmm… fine, I’ll go,” Phii Babe said, shooting a glare at her boyfriend.
“I’m going because I’m worried about Rak, not because I gave in.”
“Yes, yes, whatever the reason, we’re just happy you’re coming,” Theerak said with a small smile before turning to the tall figure. Muenfah smirked with a sly look in his eyes, leaning in close as if to kiss his lips. But because Theerak wanted to tease the cunning Muenfah, he raised his hand to touch his full lips, stopping him.
“No kissing.”
“I can hold back,” Muenfah replied.
“…”
“It’s just a few days…”
Theerak frowned as he looked at Muenfah, who was smirking. Right now, he looked extremely sly, so much so that Theerak wanted to pinch his arm until it bruised. He was still trying to interpret Muenfah’s words:
It’s just a few days…
Today was Wednesday… the beach trip was on Friday.
He thought that if he waited until Friday, Muenfah would probably kiss him until his lips were sore. Suddenly changing his mind, Theerak nudged Muenfah with his hand. The taller man turned to him, raising an eyebrow in curiosity. Theerak then lifted a finger to tap his own lips.
“I will let you kiss me.”
Muenfah laughed heartily before shaking his head in refusal, “No more kisses… I will save them all for Friday night.”
Theerak swallowed hard while thinking…
He wanted to tease Muenfah and make him suffer, that chubby puppy!
Friday night, he’d definitely get kissed until his lips were sore.
TBC
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