Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

[AFTER]

Well, shit, you think in a panic as you wake up to the sight of your younger co-worker lying with you, in your arms and with his head on your chest, in bed.

If nothing else, you think as you turn your head this way and that to take in your surroundings, hastily trying to soothe yourself. At least I'm waking up in my own bed and have my clothes on, right?

Right?

You scramble around in your head, trying to piece together what exactly happened to put you in the spot you're in now. It's a bit of a hardship, what with how woozy you're feeling and with how your eyes are still heavy with sleep. Your memories are a muddled mess, the images flashing through your eyes blurry and not making a lot of sense. Then it hits you.

The company Christmas party, and what came after.

You both drank too much, didn't you? 

Goddamn it.

[BEFORE]

Ohm Pawat Chittsawangdee, the newest recruit in your theatre company, has always looked at you funny. 

You don't know what his problem is. Actually, he's a very cheerful and energizer bunny sort of boy; the type who drapes his arms around pretty much everybody he meets and talks to them as if they've known each other since childhood. But when it comes to you, he's suddenly… prim and proper. Almost distant. Very polite, and his speech is suddenly riddled with khrap and khrap pom much more than it usually is around the other senior actors your age (and even with those older than you; you know, because you observed ), and he looks at you warily (or shyly? For a seemingly thick-faced rookie, that doesn't sound right, so maybe you're reading him wrong), as if he's staying on guard and unsure of what to expect from you. 

Not that you don't appreciate the respect, but when you see the contrast between how he treats your peers and how he treats you, you can't help but feel like he's singling you out because he dislikes you.

Because how else would you explain why he's always shifty and seemingly uncomfortable when it's just the two of you in a room, but carefree and relaxed when with literally everyone else?

You would never tell anybody, but you actually think that he's attractive. Crazily, devastatingly so, what with his boyish looks, biceps fit for someone who could knock you out cold in one punch, toned thighs and chest and legs, and sweet, soft voice that doesn't match up with his very masculine stature. You've vowed to dedicate your life to theatre and to not be distracted by unnecessary things (dating included), hence why your eye is rarely caught by anyone, so the way this kid stirs a long-buried, primal desire within you leaves you confused and reeling. Just what is it about him that's shaking the walls that you thought were impenetrable?

But of course, you're under no illusions that the new shining star of your theatre company is within your league. He's only what - 22? A fresh Bachelor of Performing Arts graduate who joined fresh out of university, and an eager beaver who managed to charm everybody right from day one. You're pretty sure that half the company has a crush on him already. (No one has to know that one of their respected seniors is part of the mix. Nope, none of their business.) There's a large pool of younger, hotter people out there, and there's no way that a popular young boy would notice someone who's pushing 30.

You're almost tempted to join Chimon's betting pool on which of the younger staff will manage to become the apple of Ohm's eye, and how long it would take the lucky person to take the breath of the charismatic newbie away, just to distract yourself. Almost.

"I really think that Nong Tu and Nong Ohm will finally end up flirting tonight," Chimon whispers smugly to you in the moments before the company Christmas program starts, your friend watching the two shamelessly while they're talking at their table. "Their chemistry at our last play was crazy. Off the charts. And now they're still talking even though it's over and…" Your friend turns to you with eyebrows wiggling mischievously. "What do you say? You wanna bet on them yet?"

"I already told you, Chimon. I'm not interested in betting on the juniors' love life," you reiterate yourself with a smidgen of irritation. "Just let them be. If they date, then good for them. If they don't, also good for them. Not the best idea to mix business with pleasure anyway."

The slightly older actor rolls his eyes. "You're such a spoilsport. I don't know why I even try with an aromantic like you."

You stick your tongue out at your good buddy, nevermind that you're 29, and in any case the 30-year old man sitting beside you mirrors the gesture anyway, as if the two of you were kids and not whole adult theatre professionals. "Ugh, Nanon. You're soooo boring. Be thankful that I put up with you and continue to offer you my friendship."

"You say that, but I know you think I'm awesome, because I hear from little birdies here how you wax poetic about my performances behind my back."

"Ha? Who in the hell made that up? They're feeding you lies, whoever they are. Can't believe you're letting yourself fall for it."

You smirk. "Tu was one of those little birdies. I know our sweet Nong Tu has a strong sense of integrity and isn't one to lie. And anyway, what would she get out of lying to me?"

Chimon's eyes turn irritated as his gaze flicks to Ohm and Tu's table. "Oh my god. I thought she could be trusted. What a traitor."

Unfortunately for you, the mention of their potential flirting sticks itself (unwantedly) in your mind, so you sneak surreptitious glances at their table throughout the whole program, trying to catch moments of them being more friendly than they ought to be. You see none (you ignore the sense of relief that fills your chest at that), and even Chimon seems to notice how he's likely going to lose his own wager because of the lack of action.

"Man, this Ohm kid's got no game," Chimon grumbles. "I understand if Tu's being low-key because… I don't know, she seems to be the low-key type, period. But Ohm?? Man, I'd kill to look like that. I'd never be single in my whole life if I did."

"You'd be a menace to society if you did look like that, so I'm glad you don't."

"Shut up, loser."

Finally, the program concludes and the mobile bar opens. You and Chimon start drinking together at first - you both down a few shots and sigh in relief at how the liquor shoots down your throat and warms your stomach, and you revel in how it relaxes you almost immediately. Then a few drinks later Chimon excuses himself to go to the bathroom, and in the meantime the person you least expected to be there is… suddenly there.

Ohm, who had apparently sauntered over to the bar without you noticing because you were busy with your own glass of vodka, takes his place beside you and asks the bartender for a couple shots of tequila. You shift in place, contemplating whether or not to mutter Excuse me and nope out of there, because you know that this Nong isn't comfortable with you. 

But to your surprise, he just turns and smiles at you this time, downs his shots in quick succession then grins again, even wider after wiping his lips with the back of his hand.

" Watdee, P'Nanon," he greets with a wai and a respectful lowering of his head. "Please tell me you're going to stay at this party for a while longer. You're not leaving yet, right?"

Your eyebrows knit together at that odd question, even as you return his wai. " Watdee, Nong Ohm. And, um. No, I'm not leaving yet. Why?"

Your junior beams at you. "Oh, great. I've always been too nervous to talk to you, but with the power of liquid courage I shall be able to push forward." 

The words he just said technically register, but they merely float around in your head and you fail to grasp exactly what he means. He soldiers on anyway, blissfully unaware of your confusion. "P'Nanon, you should know this: I joined this theatre company because of you, but I've been too much of a coward to talk to you because… I don't know. You look a little intimidating. I was worried you'd be strict and be disappointed in me if I say all sorts of dumb rookie stuff, so…"

"Hold on," you stop him, holding a hand out for emphasis and he obediently closes his mouth, though his eyes stay wide and… expectant. "I'm not sure I'm getting your point."

He sighs deeply, almost overdramatically, and asks the bartender for another shot before turning back to you. "See? I'm already messing up. But I've decided to stop being afraid of you." The bartender hands him his shot glass. He then knocks the tequila back and levels you with a piercing, determined look that makes your head spin. "P'Nanon… I've always wanted to get to know you, and maybe learn from you because I look up to you so much. Becoming your mentee would make me the happiest Thespian ever. Would you allow me to monopolize your time tonight?"

One, two, three seconds pass in silence. You reel from what your Nong just said. You heard him correctly, right? You're not hallucinating, right?

"Um… What do you mean?"

"I mean…" Suddenly, the tips of his ears and the apples of his cheeks turn red. You feel more confused than ever. 

Then he takes a deep breath and draws himself up to his full height. "Ah, to hell with it. Would you like to drink outside with me? Just the two of us, Phi. I've been dying to pick your brain and I don't know when else I'd be brave enough to do this." 

"But you can approach me anytime," you answer automatically, even as your chest suddenly starts pounding at your junior's admission that he admires you, that he's been wanting to talk to you, and that he doesn't dislike you, like you've always thought. "Not sure what you're afraid of… I don't bite, Nong."

The boy's eyes widen. "Oh. Can I really? But you might find me annoying."

"Well, that depends on what you approach me for."

"Then please tell me what you like and don't like. I'll do my best to make sure I'm never part of the latter."

You chuckle before taking another swig of vodka. You hiss at the burn, but you power through it and you, too, let liquid courage fuel you as you speak your next words. "I can do that. Where would you like to have this discussion?"

Ohm's eyes sparkle with triumph and delight. "I believe this hotel has a rooftop bar with al fresco seats. Maybe they'd let us sit there?"

That elicits another laugh from you as you return the emptied glass to the bartender. "They would, but they'd make us pay. I don't know about doing that when we literally have free alcohol right here."

"But I really want to spend some time alone with you," he grumbles and oh god , why is he so goddamn adorable? Then his expression shifts into something shrewd. You're not sure how to feel about that look, but your gut decides for you by churning with anticipation. "You know what, Phi? I wanna try something. Are you willing to trust me on this?"

"Depends on what you're thinking of doing," you answer neutrally. "I'm not much of a risk taker."

"Oh. That's a surprise," he muses. You can almost see the gears turning in his mind, but what's making them turn exactly? You have no idea. "The ad libs you often make on stage say otherwise. Or are you only spontaneous when you're acting?"

"Ah. So you've really been watching me, huh?" you reply teasingly and transform your expression into something smug, while deep inside your heart pounds at the thought of being closely observed. "Have you been taking notes too? I hope you have."

Ohm snorts. "Trust me - I've done more than take notes. Don't get creeped out, but I have copies of the plays where you're the main actor, and I might have watched those a few too many times."

"Enough to recite my lines off the top of your head?"

The younger Thespian's eyes seem to sparkle at that. "Oh, we're going there? Be careful with challenging me, Phi. I wouldn't want to overwhelm you with how flawlessly I can deliver."

"I swear I wouldn't judge. Wait - actually, I would, but only if you mess up. You wouldn't dare disrespect me by mucking up my lines, right?"

"Never, Phi. I'd never dare bring any dishonor on you and your personas." Then he makes a tutting sound. "But we're getting distracted, aren't we? I was asking if you're game to try something with me."

Huh. He's right. How'd you guys even get sidetracked? "Ah, right. Well, I'm all ears."

He moves a step towards you and leans closer before speaking in a low, secretive tone. You fight the urge to fidget and lean away. "How about I ask the bartender to give us one of the bottles in stock? Then let's take it with us to the rooftop bar?" You start to protest, but he continues on. "And if the rooftop bar wants to charge us, how about we treat them to a performance instead? Just a short scene. I'm sure they'd be thankful for the free entertainment."

You want to chastise him. Tell him that hogging a whole bottle of company-paid alcohol and wheedling bar staff into letting you occupy space for free isn't necessarily proper, but upon further thought - would it really hurt to give it a try?

"Okay," you hear yourself say before you could second guess yourself any further. "Let's do it."

You beg your knees not to buckle when his eyes sparkle, looking at you like you hung the moon and the stars.

And that's how you end up standing in front of a group of bar patrons in the rooftop al fresco area, their eyes wide with either anticipation or amusement, and watching with bated breath as you change your demeanor and stance to match your character. Ohm stands behind you, his hands resting lightly on both your shoulders. God knows what sort of expression he has on. Probably something really dramatic and... attractive, judging from how some of the ladies are close to swooning. (You certainly can't blame them.)

Another beat of silence, then Ohm goes for it.

"Kwan? Why are you quiet? Answer me."

You close your eyes and heave a deep, long-suffering sigh. In that moment, you are Kwan - caught up in a forbidden connection with someone who's supposed to be your sworn enemy, and trying to deny your feelings because they aren't right...but it's a struggle. "What?"

"I'm tired," Ohm - no, Riam - laments, and somehow it still comes out sincere despite being loaded with the performative drama of theatre. "Tired of pretending to hate you, while your face has taken over my heart. Aren't you tired too?"

You shake your head chastisingly, and let your internalized turmoil show on your face. "Ai'Riam…!"

Riam lets go momentarily, and moves so that he's standing on your right. He reclaims his hold on your shoulders and turns you, somewhat roughly, to face him.

"Let's stop it. I don't want to play this game anymore," he says firmly, with so much conviction you almost forget that he is acting. "I don't want to lie to people anymore. You asked if I still wanted us to be friends. What if my answer is no?" He stares into your eyes as if he's trying to peer into your soul. "What do you say?"

You remind yourself that you're a professional Thespian. You absolutely do not stutter or feel shy or any other bullshit like that. "You're out of your mind, Riam. You know exactly why we can't. You know it's a losing battle."

"And you know that I have never been good at giving up."

"One of your traits that I hate the most."

"Do you really?" He quirks an eyebrow, gaze and grin challenging. "I beg to disagree."

"And I beg you to regain your senses." You attempt to pry Riam's hands away. "Please... don't make this any more difficult than it already is."

Riam does let go, but only so he can capture both of your hands in his. "The only difficult thing here is your refusal to accept our fate."

"How dare you - you're the obstinate one here! I said-"

Riam gathers you abruptly into his arms, cutting you off mid-speech. You inhale sharply. 

Your senses get flooded with your junior's scent. 

"Don't resist it anymore," Riam says in a stage whisper as his fingers clutch the back of your suit desperately, as if afraid that you would pull away. "We're meant to be together. I'd bring the world to its knees for you. Won't you fight for our love with me?"

Silence. You keep your hands immobile by your sides and hold your breath. Somehow, you feel the tension of the audience in the air too.

But apparently, Ohm is done. 

He pushes you away gently, maneuvers you so that you're beside him and facing the audience, and after linking hands and with a tiny squeeze from him you both bow on cue. The bar patrons cheer and whoop. 

"Wishing you all a lovely Christmas. Thank you for watching!" your impromptu acting partner greets brightly with another sweeping bow. You merely smile, blending into the background and letting your co-star take the spotlight.

Soon, you find yourself being crowded with strangers-turned-fans as the more enamoured customers get up and approach the two of you, and you let their adoration distract you from the rush you're feeling in that moment. From how hard your heart is beating at how naturally in-sync the two of you were, despite never having played Kwan and Riam together, and how you suddenly wish that you actually held the role of Kwan instead of Nong Tu.

(You chastise yourself for daring to think that. Tu makes a lovely Kwan and she and Ohm look wonderful together, after all.)

After what seems like forever, the continuous requests for pictures and inquiries about your guild's upcoming shows (and both subtle and unsubtle requests for your and Ohm's numbers, which you both smoothly sidestepped) finally die down, and your new fans return to their tables as you both take your own seats at a table far away from everyone else and closer to the railings. The staff were so pleased with your performance that they not only agreed to waive your corkage fee, but also treated you both to two glasses of wine. On the house.

And obviously, Ohm managed to sweet talk the bartender at your company event into giving him a whole bottle of Patrón, which Ohm places proudly at the center of the table while you indulge in your free red wine first.

"Everything worked out nicely, didn't it?" your junior chirps after a particularly hearty gulp. He looked so happy as he threw his head back and chugged his wine earlier that you didn't have the heart to scold him for not savoring it, as he ought to. "Ah. I'm so happy tonight, Phi , you have no idea."

"And why is that?" you ask indulgently. Ohm smiles dreamily.

"Because one, I got to act with you, and two, you're here with me," he says softly, something in his voice giving the impression that he's awestruck and can't quite believe his luck. Come to think of it - you're a famous actor within the company, aren't you? You suppose Ohm's awe isn't unwarranted, after all.

Your heart backflips and butterflies fill your stomach, anyway.

"And so?" you ask with a quirked eyebrow, both teasingly and out of sincere curiosity. "What's so special about that?" Ohm huffs in displeasure.

"Come on, Phi. You really have to ask? Obviously, acting with the Nanon Korapat Kirdpan is an honor. Being in your presence and having you all to myself tonight is an honor. Why play coy?"

You shrug nonchalantly, even if deep inside you're feeling anything but. "Just had to be sure. Can't have me being overconfident and arrogant now, can we?"

"Honestly? I wouldn't mind it one bit, even if you were."

You snort before sipping your own wine, partly to cover up how flustered you're starting to feel. "I had a question, though. Why the need to bring a whole bottle of tequila with you? I thought you wanted to talk? I don't think we're gonna get much talking done if this bottle isn't just for show."

Ohm chuckles awkwardly. "I seriously need the liquid courage. If I hadn't downed shots first, I'd probably be a shaking wreck right now." 

"I seriously don't bite, Nong. You'll be fine."

"My nerves are all over the place anyway."

"So are you going to keep fueling this conversation with that liquid courage, or…"

"That's the plan. It's dumb, I know."

"At least you know it. Too much alcohol isn't good for you, kid."

At that, Ohm smirks, then downs the rest of his wine. Is that out of spite? Huh. A bull-headed and incorrigible kid, I see… "Ai'Ohm! What did I just say?"

And apparently, yes - he is definitely doing this to spite you, because after putting the glass back down and wiping his lips with the back of his hand, he actually reaches for the bottle of Patrón and tips its contents into one of the shot glasses that the waitstaff had prepared for you both.

Only then do you notice the slight tremor in his hands.

You watch him down the shot, all while shaking your head in equal parts disapproval and amusement, and after he's done he meets your eyes with a solemn gaze.

"P'Nanon," he says. "Tell me. What got you into theatre?"

Ah. I guess he's begun.

And so you grace him with your well-worn, dearly beloved tale of how you ended up auditioning for a college freshie play years ago - unplanned - when that feisty and mischievous friend you made in freshman orientation (by the name of Chimon Wachirawit Ruangwiwat) scammed you into "hanging out" with some of his fellow theatre majors.

In the end, your music major ass somehow got the part, and so began your journey as a Thespian despite technically belonging to the conservatory of music. You eventually graduated with a music degree and a minor in Theatre Arts, got picked up by the theatre company, and as that cliché line goes - the rest was history.

"I was going to major in Commercial Music, originally. But after getting involved with Chimon and his group I decided to major in Performance, because what is a Thespian without the stage and a live audience to entertain?" You say that in an unnecessarily pompous tone. Ohm chuckles. "I regret nothing though. Without Chimon my path would've been very different, and I don't know that I would've been happier working in a commercial music studio versus being on the stage."

Ohm nods thoughtfully, humming. His eyes are glittering with interest. A little thrill shoots down your spine at the attention. "I have to say - where you are now really suits you. I can't imagine you being confined to the four walls of a recording studio." He drinks another shot. He poured himself less tequila this time, but still. "What instruments do you play, Phi?"

Eventually, you also start partaking in the shots as the night wears on. The conversation takes so many turns that you start to lose track - how did you go from discussing acting techniques and critiquing famous plays and gossiping about the other actors (shame on you for indulging in this despite being a respected senior, but hey, it was the alcohol speaking) to -

"Is it true that there's something going on between you and Tu?"

The incredulous stare that Ohm levels you with after your question makes you want to bury your head under the ground or something. "Huh? That's absurd. Tu would never be into me. Where'd you even get that?"

You're pretty sure you're well on your way to turning beet red in the next 5 seconds or so. "Ugh. Chimon and his outrageous theories. Forget I asked." Then you perk up when you realize something. "You sound so certain about Tu not being into you. Why?"

He squirms in his seat. "Ah… Phi … I don't think I should say. It's not my place to."

"You know that's just making me more curious, right?"

" Phi ," he whines. You don't think it's adorable; nope, not at all. "I swear, I can't. Next topic please."

Huh. Maybe Tu is already taken and nobody's supposed to know? Or is this because she's fruity?? Either way, you shrug in an unspoken gesture of surrender. "Alright, fine. I'll let that go. For now. "

"Why were you asking, though?" Ohm smirks. "You trying to find out if I'm single or not, Phi?"

You roll your eyes and absolutely do not panic internally at how that's partially true. Not to mention your curiosity at whether Ohm feels bad about Tu not liking him. (Just a teeeeny, tiny bit.) "We're gossiping, aren't we? You should've seen that coming from miles away."

"Well, how about you?" he deflects abruptly. "You seem so… aloof and unreachable sometimes. And you don't treat anybody special. Except maybe for P'Chimon." Something odd passes through Ohm's gaze in that moment. You try to read into it, but it's too fleeting and you don't get enough data. "Anybody in the guild that you're secretly into?"

You pour yourself a tiny helping of alcohol, out of panic. Only while you're draining your shot glass in an effort to stall do you realize how stupid that was. Tipsiness gives way to unwanted honesty, doesn't it? You resolve not to drink any more.

"No. None. I'm not interested in dating," you deadpan after wiping your lips with a napkin, and you force yourself to look him in the eyes to fool him into thinking that you aren't bothered. "What I'm really interested in is getting our plays more attention, acting in more high-profile theaters, maybe securing a higher-ranking position in our guild down the line. Ambition has no room for distraction."

"But inspiration could help you, right?" Ohm presses on, leaning forward a little bit. "A muse could push you to greater heights. Believe me, I should know…" He draws even closer, or at least as much as the table between you both allows. "I mean, I have a muse right now, and they've inspired me so much that I did better than I expected coming in. Not to brag, but a lot of the seniors said I played my first lead role so well that it didn't feel like a first. That counts for something, right?"

Ah. Of course Ohm wouldn't feel bad about Tu not liking him - he already likes someone else. Figures , you think wryly. Nope, you're not disappointed. 

Not even a little bit.

You shrug to produce your desired unbothered and unconvinced effect. "Well, I suppose it does. But not everybody needs external motivation. I, for one, am very self-motivated. It all comes from within. Nothing wrong with getting your fire from another person, but I certainly don't need it."

Ohm shakes his head slowly, mouth parted slightly and a glint of awe in his eyes. You shake yourself mentally and try not to read into it further. "I admire you for that. If I didn't love being inspired by my current muse, I would wish to think like you too."

Against your better judgement, you actually pour and down another shot to fend off the bitterness - the jealousy? - you're suddenly feeling.

Inevitably, the tipsiness grows for both of you as the hour trickles by. You barely even manage to accept Chimon's call when he rings.

"Non, you okay? Still alive and kicking?" Chimon teases, but even through the haze caused by the liquor in your system his concern registers. "I heard that Ohm can drink most people here under the table. You , however, cannot. Can you still get home?"

"Of course I can, Chi," you retort incredulously. He doesn't have to know that that statement came with a careless, dismissive, wobbly wave of your hand, which you typically wouldn't have done when sober. "I know my limit. I'm no baby, mom. "

"Tsk. You are a baby when it comes to drinking and you usually need saving. That's why you texted me that Nong Ohm was schmoozing up to you for tonight, right? So I'd check on you."

You snort. Yes, you being a lightweight is true, but you'd never admit it out loud. "You think so little of me. I'll be fine."

"Seriously though. Do you need me to stay and take you home, or…"

"I'll be fine," you insist. "Are you going home now?"

"Unfortunately, yes. It's gotten boring, and obviously I'm not getting any because there's nobody interesting enough for me in this place." You snort. "So yes, I'm gonna go home and treat myself to a nice, long bubble bath. I deserve it."

"You do. Enjoy, Chi."

"I will, darling. Make sure you and Nong Ohm get home in one piece, alright? And don't forget to get the latest tea on him and Nong Tu. I don't even know why he's faffing around with you right now instead of her."

You snort again. "There's no tea to gather on that front, I already tried."

An indignant noise flows from your phone's speakers. "What? You have failed me. You weren't asking the right questions. I'm sure there's tea to drink. Ugh, when I get a chance to corner Ohm or Tu next time, watch me and learn."

"Hah. I'd like to see you try."

"I will, trust me." You chuckle. You glance absently at Ohm and see him gazing right back at you with an unreadable look in his eyes. You feel unease roil around in your gut. "Well, anyway. I'm going now, baby. Stay safe, alright?"

"Yeah. Good night and take care, text me when you're home."

"I will. Love you."

"Love you too."

You hang up and put your phone away, a little grin tugging at the corner of your lips. Chimon always tends to be affectionate and loose with his endearments when tipsy - tonight is no exception. It's actually quite adorable, especially when he starts acting all disgusted at himself the day after for being so soft.

When you look up, you are greeted by the sight of Ohm replenishing his shot glass - he pours till it's dangerously full, you notice with some concern - and he knocks it back with a furious sort of air about him. He doesn't speak after, and quite obviously tries to repress his instinctive flinch at the burn.

You drink a tiny amount too, just for something to do when the silence stretches on for minutes too long.

"You're not going home with P'Chimon yet?" Ohm asks casually, just after you've started shifting uncomfortably in your seat. Oddly enough, his tone sounds a little tight around the edges. "That was him, right?"

"Ah...yeah. Usually I would go when he does, but I can hardly leave you alone here, right?"

"Oh. Do you want to go home, then?"

"No, I'm fine with staying."

"But if you're only staying on my account…"

"What is this? Why are you suddenly sulky?" you joke, but deep inside your heart skips a beat at the thought that maybe, just maybe, Ohm was feeling jealous. And immediately you chastise yourself for thinking such an outlandish thought. "Oooh, are you the emotional type of drunk? The bottle is down to its last ¼ now, thanks mostly to you. I guess it's getting to you now."

"Maybe I am," Ohm whines. "What I would give to be as close as you and P'Chimon."

...Did he really just say that? You're struck speechless and only manage to stare dumbly at your junior.

Then said junior sways in his seat. You jerk forward, hands outstretched and ready to catch him, but what do you know? Your head sways too and you feel a bout of nausea. Oh god. Not a good sign. "Whoa, whoa. You okay, Nong?"

"I think I'm gonna be sick," Ohm mumbles and shit, of course it'd come to this. He'd singlehandedly drunk more than half of the tequila bottle between you and there was no other possible outcome. "Excuse me for a second."

He gets up shakily and makes to go in the direction of the bar entrance, probably to ask where the restroom is and perhaps throw up in one of the stalls. You make the table shake with how quickly you get up too, walking unsteadily to where Ohm is and wrapping an arm around his waist to support him. He leans into your touch and wraps an arm around your shoulders immediately. 

You try to fight the blush that must be creeping up on your cheeks as you guide him to the entrance of the indoor area.

When you get there, one of the servers opens the door for you and points you in the direction of the restrooms. You thank him and continue your unsteady walk in that direction, struggling to force your motor skills back into shape despite the tequila flowing metaphorically through your veins, all while hauling a bulky six footer who's close to being dead on his feet. Somehow, perhaps through sheer will, your knees don't buckle and you manage to guide Ohm into one of the empty stalls.

You flinch when he starts throwing up, feeling a smidgen of pity at the sound of his retching. You rub his back soothingly and wonder vaguely if you ought to throw up too, just to help clear your mind that's also a bit muddy from liquor. When he's done, you hurriedly flush the toilet, take a large chunk of tissue from the dispenser, and help him wipe his mouth after he's straightened up.

He gazes at you, unnervingly sharp eyes looking like they want to see through you and into your soul. Why is he even looking at you like that? You avert your eyes and focus on his lips instead while you wipe it gently. 

The plump and utterly kissable shape of it doesn't help. 

"I don't feel too good. I don't know if I can go home alone, Phi ," he whispers after you've thrown the tissues away, his tequila-scented breath filling your nostrils. Only then do you realize how close the two of you are standing. "I'm sorry to burden you."

"Do you need me to accompany you home?" you ask. Your traitorous heart thunders at the thought of Ohm relying on you. "You'll just have to give me your address."

"Will you let me crash at your place instead?" he asks boldly. "Just so you wouldn't have to make two trips."

Had it been anybody else, you're pretty sure you would've snapped at them for being so presumptuous. Even Chimon would've gotten an earful from you. But Ohm in a suit with his slicked back hair and intense eyes and incredibly handsome face and delicious-looking lips altogether are just -

Yes, you would love to take this superior specimen of a human home. No, you don't agree immediately even if you're eager for it. You let his question hang in the air for a few seconds before nodding slowly, his face that was starting to look tortured from the wait lighting up.

"Thanks, Phi ," he says in a low, hoarse tone that makes your stomach flip. "I appreciate you."

After splashing your face with water while Ohm rinses his mouth, you both amble out of the restroom and the restaurant itself, Ohm insisting on going back for the tequila so he can take it home before making a beeline for the elevators. You keep your arm around him for support the whole time, and the younger man continues to lean into your touch.

No further words are spoken as you both ride the elevator, exit the building, hail a taxi, and pile into it. You dictate your home address to the driver and glance at the youngster beside you. He's sprawled out in his seat with his head lolling back against the headrest, eyes closed and face peaceful as if he's not currently on his way to a place that's not his home, and with a senior that he's not close with to boot.

You wonder if this had been Ohm's plan all along, and just as quickly bonk yourself mentally on the head for being so presumptuous.

Upon arriving at your apartment, you immediately get a pair of slippers for Ohm and hold your hands out to catch him, just in case he overbalances while removing his shoes. It's a wobbly journey, but he makes it anyway. You change out of your dress shoes into your slippers too, before curling your hand around Ohm's arm to guide him in the direction of your bedroom.

Once there, you plop him down on your bed and grin a little at his obviously hammered state. He merely sits on the bed with a heavy slouch, eyes closed and head angled down. 

"Think you can still manage a quick shower? Or do you want to just undress then go straight to bed?" you ask while rummaging through your wardrobe for a spare night shirt and shorts. He's bulkier than you, so you dig specifically for an oversized shirt that hopefully fits his broader frame. 

"Undress then go to bed sounds good," he mumbles. You hear a little bit of rustling, then when you turn with the clothes in hand you blanch, because apparently Ohm had decided to stand up and shed his formal clothing in favor of being half-naked and wearing only a pair of boxers, his suit and slacks lying abandoned on the floor.

The shocking sight of his well-muscled chest and shoulders and abs and the v-line leading towards his...it takes so much effort, but somehow you manage to shut that train of thought down. "...oh. Okay then." You wordlessly hand him your clothes and stand there awkwardly as he dresses himself, ready to catch him if he stumbles.

Somehow, he doesn't, and all that proximity achieves is reminding you of how slightly taller Ohm is despite being younger. For reasons unknown, this tiny and irrelevant fact fills you with heat.

Once he's finally dressed in your clothes you step away, as if coming out of a trance, and stoop down to collect his discarded clothes. You busy yourself with hanging them up, then after getting your own night shirt and shorts you turn back to your junior.

"If you want to brush your teeth, I can bring out a spare toothbrush and toothpaste for you," you say gently. Ohm nods slowly in response. "Come, follow me."

You walk out of your bedroom into the bathroom and retrieve the spare toiletries, as promised. You hand it wordlessly to Ohm, who's trudging obediently behind you, and guide him towards the kitchen sink. "I take it you can still brush your teeth, right? Because I'm definitely not doing that for you."

"I can, Phi ," Ohm mumbles. You nod, and once he's started going through the motions you leave him and head to the bathroom so you can shower.

Once you've showered and changed into your bedclothes, you make your way back into your room and are surprised when you see Ohm perching hesitantly at the edge of your bed, body slightly tense and looking a little more alert. He looks up as soon as you enter, his lips stretching into a wide smile. "Hey, Phi."

"How come you're not asleep yet?" you ask a little incredulously while drying your hair with a towel. "Obviously the bed is yours. Go rest."

"I can't possibly hog your bed now, can I?" Then all of a sudden, he looks shy. "I was thinking...if it's okay with you..maybe we can share the bed. I'd hate for you to sleep on the couch or something, and I doubt you'd allow me to sleep there instead."

"Of course I wouldn't, you're my guest," you deadpan, even as the thought of sharing the bed with Ohm makes your face burn. "My bed isn't big enough for two, though. We might not fit."

"Good thing I'm a cuddler, then. That would help."

"Ai'Ohm!" you yelp in surprise. Did he really just…?? "Seriously, don't worry about it. Just go to sleep."

Unexpectedly, Ohm stands up and walks slowly towards you. The way he does it - stalking , as if you were prey and he were a predator - makes your heart rate spike, but you stand your ground. "I actually needed the liquid courage for another reason, Phi ," Ohm confesses once he's but a foot away from you, the look in his eyes an odd cross between guilt and determination. Your confusion mounts. "Sorry in advance."

And to your complete and utter shock, Ohm Pawat Chittsawangdee collects you into his arms and kisses you right on the mouth.

You don't respond upfront. Instead you freeze while your mind whirrs a hundred miles per hour, trying to make sense of what's going on and oh god , his lips are delicious as they move against yours. You actually chase after them when he pulls away.

"It would be awkward as hell after this, but I just had to shoot my shot, you know?" he muses with a distinct lack of guilt in his tone. It definitely sounds like a Sorry, not sorry to you. "Especially if...if...if someone's already staking their claim on you. I can hardly sit on my butt and wait, can I?"

You're already confused to begin with, but the final part of his statement rings like screaming question marks in your head. "...staking their claim on me? Nobody's staking their claim on me. And Nong Ohm, what-"

"You mean, you don't realize it?" Ohm asks in disbelief, as if he has any right to look like that when he 's the one mercilessly fucking with your mind right now. "I thought...oh." Then he smirks , the bastard. "You know what? Nevermind that. I'd rather you focus on me." He stares piercingly into your eyes again and, with one large hand, smooths your damp hair back and rests his palm on your cheek. "P'Nanon...call me creepy or whatever, but I've had eyes for you since I watched your performance in The Gifted. And many more, but I don't want to creep you out any further." He grins widely. "It was just a dumb crush at first. Made you my muse and inspiration of sorts. But when I joined the company and got to know you through other people...it made me want to get closer to you. Be part of your circle. Only problem was, I was too much of a coward to approach you." His hold around your waist tightens and you feel a little dizzy from the possessive gesture. "But now? Now, I'm not afraid. I want you, Phi , and now I have you where I want you. I'm so happy I could cry."

"You're crazy," you reply shakily, and seriously - was that the best answer you could come up with? "Why me of all people? I'm almost 30, Nong."

"I know. So?" Ohm challenges. "Cliché saying, yes, but age is just a number."

"You don't know me. As another saying has it - don't meet your heroes, right? I might yet disappoint you."

He makes a dismissive sound. "I'm not a pessimist. That's a problem for future me."

That shuts you up. In the background, though, your mind continues to whirr - continues to wonder if this wasn't just drunk Ohm mistaking you for someone else, or projecting on you, or worse, a prank. But he didn't seem to be the type to pull pranks this cruel, and in any case there wasn't anybody present who could be a witness. 

His gaze looks sharp enough to cut, too. He definitely doesn't seem like he's so fucked up by alcohol that he's suddenly confessing to the wrong person. Which means...

"Can I kiss you again, Phi?" This time, he asks for permission and this time , you allow yourself to admit that yes , you actually kind of want him to. "Or not. Punch me, maybe. I just-"

"Stop yapping and just kiss me, Ohm," you reply impatiently, and the bright smile he graces you with before closing in makes you feel warm all over.

This time, when your lips meet, you actively reciprocate. The kiss turns heated very quickly - he licks along the seam of your lower lip not too long after, and you don't even think to make him work hard for that access. As soon as you open your mouth he licks into it and tangles his tongue with yours, both of you moaning as you fight for dominance and allow each other's hands to wander.

You barely even notice when he starts maneuvering you both towards the bed. You only realize when the back of your legs hit the mattress, making your knees buckle and you fall down on your butt with an Oof , and Ohm's eyes shine brightly as he gently pushes you down by the shoulders and moves to straddle you.

"P'Nanon, has anybody ever told you how hot you are?" he whispers and oh , it's embarrassing how much that turns you on. "Your face...your body proportions...the way you carry yourself...I just want to gobble you all up."

"You mean you've been horny for your senior all this time?" you ask teasingly, but the effect is ruined by how breathless you sound. "My, my."

"Because you were born with superior genes," the young man above you retorts. Smooth, you think in half-amusement, half-amazement. "I couldn't help but admire you. I didn't stand a chance."

"But there are other people with 'superior genes' in the guild too. Why me?"

"I don't know," comes the honest answer. "I really have no idea. I just woke up one day with you running through my mind. I didn't question it."

"Crazy kid," you muse in amazement. Your reaction is met with a sound of protest.

"Kid? Kid?? Excuse me? Let me show you just how much of a man I am."

The third kiss is even more lustful than before. This time, it's filled almost purely with tongue and teeth and bites that seem to say: I'm a man, not a boy , and tonight I'm gonna make you mine. Ohm even takes your wrists and pins them above your head - a little too roughly, but you're too caught up in the sensation of his tongue mapping every crevice of your mouth to feel chagrined by that - and to your utter embarrassment, the feeling of being ravished makes you arch your back and puts your erections in contact and fuck , it takes so much for you not to come just from a few quick grinds of his hard cock against yours.

After what feels like forever, Ohm pulls back and allows you both to surface. Your head spins. Once upon a time you thought that this particular Nong disliked you, but now look where you both are - out of breath, lips slick with each other's saliva, and shorts tented with unresolved erections while you're underneath him, the weight pinning you down feeling very pleasant. 

"Actually, I think I gotta stop here," Ohm whispers in a strained voice. "Any farther and you'll think I'm just trying to get into your pants."

Disappointing, yes, but relief floods you anyway. You're not in any shape or form ready for what would've come next. "Oh. That wasn't the intention?"

"I mean, of course that's part of it. But that's not the only thing." Ohm hangs his head guiltily and shakes it from side to side. "What's wrong with me? I couldn't have asked you on a date first?"

You remain quiet. It's a lot to process, after all.

"You're really not taken, Phi?" he asks worriedly. There's that statement again - as far as you're aware, there is nobody that Ohm could possibly think is involved with you, and yet he's got that idea in his head. You shake your head impatiently.

"No, what the hell? I just told you earlier - I'm not interested in romance right now. My career is more important. Where'd you get that idea?"

"It's just-" he pauses for a bit, then after a few seconds or so smiles cryptically. "You know what, Phi? Ignore that. I'd assumed too much."

"Tell me though. Who made you think I was spoken for?" you insist. Really, you need to know. What if Chimon has been inventing a love interest for you just to add to his betting pool?

Then you feel cold all over. Chimon. Oh god, has Ohm been thinking that you and Chimon have been involved all this time? You shiver. "Wait. You know what? I have an idea who you might be thinking about and let me tell you right now - you couldn't be farther from the truth."

"But I've seen the way they look at you, Phi ," he insists a little sulkily, his mouth forming a little pout and all, and damn if your insides aren't feeling all soft from how adorable that is. On top of the dread that you suddenly feel at your friendship with Chimon being misconstrued. "Oh my god. So you didn't know. I don't know how you don't, but...just...wow."

"I can't believe you think that way about me and Chimon," you couldn't help but state, and you even wrinkle your nose in mock disgust to prove a point. "I could never. He could never. We're bros for life. It'd be the end of the world - with no other choices in sight - before either of us feels that way about the other."

Silence. Ohm just stares at you searchingly and despite how uncomfortable it is, you stare back. You don't back down, you don't fidget, and finally Ohm's expression melts into a relieved smile.

"I believe you," he declares before dropping down and planting another kiss on your lips. Just a chaste press of his mouth to yours, this time. "P'Nanon, promise me you won't pretend that this didn't happen tomorrow. Promise me you'll say yes when I ask to date you."

"Oi. Being a little demanding, aren't we?" you retort, even as your wide grin betrays you. "I can't believe you think I'm so easy. I won't let anything get in the way of my ambition."

"I have the same ambition anyway, Phi ," he reassures you. "We can be each other's muse. That's a win-win situation, don't you think?" You almost laugh from how eager he looks to convince you. But despite how tempting it is to give in to his charms, you know that this attractive youngster has many options and the world at his feet, and he might not necessarily stay. Stay strong and keep your guard up, Non. Don't let a pretty boy run you to the ground. 

"If I were you, Nong? I'd slow down and get to know me first, before making any hasty decisions," you caution while sitting up and gently pushing him off of you. Ohm's expression suddenly turns all butthurt at that, but you resolutely ignore it. "Tell you what. Why don't you go to sleep now, then we'll talk again when you're all sober in the morning. Deal?"

"...fine. Deal," he concedes grumpily. He then raises his right hand and curls it into a fist, the knuckles facing you. You stare at it pointedly before quirking a questioning eyebrow up at him. "Aaaand, what am I supposed to do with this?"

"Fist bump to close the deal, Phi ," he explains. You don't bother holding back a snort. 

"What? It's like we're buddies, phuean. "

"If that's what it takes then so be it," Ohm says determinedly. Your next exhale gets stuck in your lungs, but you manage to let it out somehow. "If we have to be friends first? Deal. I'll take it."

After a few beats (during which you also relish the anxious line of Ohm's lips, then berate yourself shortly after for being a tad sadistic ), you bring your own left hand up and bump fists with Ohm. "Okay. Deal."

"Yes!! Thank you, Phi ," the excitable puppy straddling you gushes before swooping in to steal another kiss. (You let out a squeak of protest for show, but you return it anyway.)

After you've both paced the room and calmed your respective erections and heart rates down, you take one side of the bed and pat the empty space invitingly after settling in.

"Might as well sleep here with me tonight. But no funny business, you hear?"

Ohm's eyes widen almost comically. "Oh? I can? I would love to, Phi."

"You can, but no inappropriate touching. You just sleep. Anything out of line and you're out."

"You can count on it," he breathes, and the sparkle in his gaze makes your chest squeeze with how adorable it is. "Thank you."

We'll see if he doesn't change his mind tomorrow, you think much later while lying on your back and staring up at the ceiling, Ohm lying on his stomach and sleeping peacefully a few inches away from you, before drifting off to sleep.

Chapter Text

Ohm groans as he stirs from his slumber. You instinctively freeze with panic. (You couldn't resist staring at his scrunched up face, either. You're ready to bet that you look like a deer caught in headlights right now, who couldn't help but watch the speeding car as it hurtles down the road towards you, so to speak.)

Your freezing up might've hastened Ohm's return to wakefulness, because soon after your whole upper body stiffened his eyes flew open. He blinks rapidly and lets his eyes roam around the room. You watch with morbid fascination as his pupils widen, his expressive eyes showing you the exact moment when he registers just where he is right now.

It's almost adorable, how blown his eyes are with panic and embarrassment when he finally looks at you. 

"Oh...P'Nanon. Good morning…?"

"Yeah, good morning," you mumble before averting your eyes. You subtly move the arm that his head is currently lying on - thankfully he gets the memo, because he immediately sits up with a curse under his breath. "I'm gonna go make breakfast. Unless you're going home now?"

"Uhh. Um. I would love to stay for breakfast, if possible…?"

"Okay," you answer flatly while sluggishly getting up and out of bed, stifling a yawn as you clumsily fit your feet into your house slippers. Somehow, your sleepy brain manages to pretend that you didn't just make out with (and ground your erection against) the young man on your bed right now. Probably best to act unbothered if he insists on staying. "Would fried rice and some crispy pork with egg be okay with you?"

"Yes, Phi. I'll eat anything you serve. Thank you."

"Do you want coffee or something else?"

"Um. Hot chocolate if you have some…?"

Hot chocolate, huh? He really is a youngster.

"Okay. You can sleep in while I cook."

"No, I want to help," he answers hastily while also scrambling to his feet. The action makes him flinch and you instinctively reach out with one hand as he sways, even if you know that the bed in between would keep you from actually catching him. "Well...if my hangover allows me to, that is."

"You should just rest in bed, Nong," you say firmly while walking over to where he is and putting both of your hands on his shoulders. "You drank waaaay too much last night. Seriously, I better not see you walking around till the food's ready."

Ohm flashes a pleased grin as you push him gently back down on the bed, tilting his head up to keep gazing fondly at you as he sits obediently on the mattress. "Oh...to be babied by you, Phi. Don't be mad if I'm enjoying it, na? "

You're sure that your cheeks redden against your will then. Goddamn it. Where the hell does this kid get all his charm? You let go as if burnt and step away. "You know what? I change my mind. You go out there and cook your own breakfast."

"I bet you won't actually make me," he retorts in a singsong, slightly smug voice and ugh, one should apparently not indulge this boy too much. Otherwise he becomes insufferable. "I legit want to help, though. I'll be fine. Let me na, Phi? "

"And if you get too dizzy and fall down, then what?"

"I really won't. Just give me some water and aspirin and I'll be as good as new."

"Ohm-"

" Naaaa? "

In the end, his puppy eyes win, and after popping down some hangover meds and getting hydrated he proceeds to help you in the kitchen, cutting up basil and garlic and beating the egg yolk for you, because apparently you both prefer scrambled eggs over sunny side up. He even makes coffee for you when he runs out of things to do, coaxing you into taking a sip while you're busy working your magic on the stove.

" Nong, you're the guest, you don't have to-" 

"Sshhh. Drink your coffee, Phi. I put two teaspoons of sugar and creamer each as you requested." 

"Ohm-" 

"Just drink it for me, please?" 

With a long-suffering sigh, you leave your spatula on the frying pan to take the steaming mug. You bring it up to your lips and blow for a few seconds before taking a careful sip.

"There we go!! Did I get the formula right?" 

"...yeah." 

"Whew. Okay. Now, my turn. Where's your hot choco?" Shamelessly, Ohm starts rummaging through your cupboard as if he owns the place, and what do you know - he actually manages to find the glass jar containing your cocoa powder. "Found ya. Don't mind if I help myself."

Eventually, you manage to finish cooking and serving breakfast. You sit across each other and the silence is slightly heavy as you both dig in, the quiet only punctuated by the clinking of cutlery and the sounds of your eating. 

It is Ohm who breaks the silence.

"About last night, Phi -" he pauses awkwardly then clears his throat, seemingly to steel himself before continuing. "I want you to know that I'm not gonna apologize for any of it."

One, two, three seconds pass without a response from you. But could anybody blame you for being caught off guard? How do you even respond to that?

"I was...ah...a little inebriated. That's true. But I meant everything that I said and did. I was rash, but I was sincere. And call me presumptuous, but you kissed me back, so... you're attracted to me too, aren't you, Phi?" You hastily open your mouth to protest, but he plows on before you could interject. 

"However - I do think that I spoke out of turn when I asked you to date me. Because why would you, right? You're Nanon Korapat Kirdpan. Our ambitious prodigy who will likely become Play Director or Artistic Director a few years from now. How dare I think you'd be so easy?" He chuckles self-deprecatingly. "You can ignore that part and count on me trying to be friends with you first, see if I get lucky that way."

It takes you a few moments to stop gaping and shut your mouth. But instead of replying you choose to resume eating, slowly, to buy yourself more time to chew on his statement.

"P'Nanon, do you hate me for what I did?" Ohm asks in a small voice, and that makes you look up and pause your chewing. This is your first time hearing him sound so uncertain. "Are you disgusted with me deep inside, but still feeding me breakfast and letting me stay because it's your duty as a good Phi?"

"No," you answer instantly. You've gotten so accustomed to Ohm sounding and acting like a ray of sunshine that you immediately hate the gloom that's taken over his face. "No, I don't hate you. I'm not disgusted by you either. Just...in shock and in disbelief over last night, that's all."

"Oh. The shock part, I understand. But disbelief? Why?"

You shoot him a pointed look. "Nong, you always seemed distant or uncomfortable around me. Even Chimon thinks you're intimidated by me or something. What happened last night was the last thing I ever expected."

His expression immediately sours at the mention of Chimon. You cringe when you remember what he thinks is "going on" between you two. "Oh. So I wasn't obvious at all? I don't know whether to be relieved or disappointed."

"Have you been plotting this for a while now?" you ask. His expression immediately turns guilty. "Hey, not judging you or anything. Just curious."

"Well, I only planned on talking to you last night," he answers in a slightly defensive tone. "I didn't mean to get you to take me home and... you know. But the opportunity came up, so I took it."

"You moved really quickly too."

"Yeah. Still not sorry about kissing you."

"You're incorrigible."

Ohm winks. "Admit it, Phi. You enjoyed kissing me."

True, but you roll your eyes and refuse to indulge him anyway. "Why should I feed your ego, Nong?"

"Phiiii," he whines with a pout. "I already retracted the 'Date me' statement. The least you could do now is boost my confidence a little."

"You're probably used to getting worshipped by men and women alike, right? You don't need me for that."

"Uhh, not true. You're overestimating my appeal." Then Ohm gasps dramatically. "Wait. If you're overestimating my appeal, then that means...wow. So you actually think this highly of me. I need a moment."

"Flatter yourself if that's what makes you happy, then."

"No need to flatter myself, you already did that for me." Then he shoots you a wide smile that makes him look, for lack of a better term, whipped as all hell. You brush it off mentally, even as you feel your face redden. "Also: to me, your opinion matters the most, so even if what you said were true - which it isn't by the way - I'd still need your validation." He leans forward. "You liked kissing me, didn't you? It sure felt like you did. No use in denying it, Phi."

You turn back to your food with renewed gusto and stuff your mouth full instead of answering him. He chuckles and shakes his head. "Okay, understandable. How dare I think you'd be easy, right?"

"Damn straight," you mutter under your breath.

"Watch me break your walls down and win you over, though. Just you wait."

Once you're both done eating, and after a little argument over washing the dishes ("I know I'm a guest, but I hate being useless. Please let me wash the dishes, Phi. " "I'm not so shameless that I'd let you wash the dishes, come on." "I knowwww. But consider this as a favor to your Nong who can't stand being coddled." "... you're not going to let this go, are you?" "Never." "God, fine. "), post-breakfast cleanup ends and it's finally time to see Ohm out. 

He looks reluctant to leave, but of course he has to. Things are already awkward as it is.

"Promise that you won't avoid me during rehearsals?" Ohm turns around and pleads right after you walk him to the front door. He's dressed in one of the largest shirts that you own and in one of your comfiest jogging pants, the paper bag containing his clothes from last night clutched in his right hand. "And that you'll talk to me if I talk to you? I don't get embarrassed easily, but if I come up to you and get ignored in full sight of everybody...I might cry. I'm serious, Phi."

"I won't ignore you, I promise," you mumble, and Ohm responds to that with a bright grin. "Anyway, you'll still have to return my clothes. Obviously I'd have to talk to you for that."

"And even after that, okay?"

"Yeah, yeah."

"I'll be going, then." 

"Take care."

"Can I kiss you again?" Ohm asks breathlessly, and for a moment you're tempted to let him…

...but you're not easy, are you? 

So instead of being weak, you roll your eyes at him and turn him around by the shoulders, pushing him forward and even opening the door for him. "Bye, Ohm."

Ohm turns around again and shoots you a kicked-puppy sort of look. Nope, it's not making you rethink your decision. Not at all. "Okay, fine. No more kisses. See ya, Phi. "

He exits your apartment, then pivots around one last time to grin and wave enthusiastically before turning back to the main road and focusing on hailing a cab.

You shut the door and immediately lean back against it, holding a hand up to your heart and willing it to slow down because it has no business getting this worked up over a smile, goddamnit.

What a weekend.

You call Chimon immediately after sending Ohm off. He's going to tease you to death, yes, but you have no one else to turn to, and you need advice. 

Stat.

Your anxious energy causes you to speak as soon as Chimon picks up, not even allowing your friend to get a word in edgewise. "Hello? Mon? Oh god. You wouldn't believe what I'm about to tell you."

"What. Good morning to you too, I guess?" Chimon greets sarcastically, but underneath that tone of someone who's obviously rolling their eyes while speaking, you hear his concern anyway. "What have you gotten yourself into? I'm actually nervous, Non. Getting oneself into weird shit is typically my style, not yours."

"Right? I'm still in shock, myself." You take a deep breath and exhale slowly, the static your dramatic whoosh of air is creating probably annoying Chimon, but you complete your breathing ritual anyway. "So...listen. Ohm Pawat Chittsawangdee apparently has a secret crush on me, and last night he got me to take his drunk ass home, and he-" You almost choke on air as you verbalize it. Disbelief over last night being actually real kicks in again - wasn't it just surreal? "He kissed me, I let him, we slept together on my bed and I woke up to us cuddling, holy shit. Mon, what the fuck?"

Silence. You feel flustered at the lack of reaction.

"Being clingy or touchy with someone I'm not close to is not my style, you know that. I guess I drank too much, because otherwise I wouldn't have let him get this close. Should I count this as harassment? Was it harassment? Oh shit."

More silence. You start feeling disturbed at how quiet Chimon is being. Where's the teasing that you expected and so valiantly prepared for? "...Mon? You can hear me, right? Did my audio cut out?"

"No," Chimon replies, and the unexpected blankness in his tone unsettles you. "But say that again. Ohm likes you, kissed you, and you guys slept together?"

" Literally slept together," you correct hastily. "Not...you know. We both woke up with clothes on so I'm sure."

"He initiated it all?"

"He did, yeah."

"Did you resist?"

"I--" That gives you pause. A torturously clear memory of you chasing after Ohm's lips as he pulls away, after he caught you unawares and kissed you for the first time flits through your mind, and goddamnit - 

You wanted it too, didn't you? 

"I... honestly? I didn't."

"Because he was pressuring you, or…?"

Was there pressure? Oh, hell yes. But was it the pressure that made you give in?

Not necessarily, you conclude with resignation. Unsolicited heat flows through you as you remember the taste of his plump lips and the feeling of his hard cock against yours and shit, you shouldn't think about that. Not while you're on the phone with your best friend.

"No, Chimon," you whisper shakily as the weight of what happened last night crashes on you more fully. "I actually liked it. All of it."

For the first time since you've known Chimon, the vibe between the two of you grows solemn. Your gut, which had already been filled with anxiety (and butterflies, cheesy as that may sound), roils even more with dread. Why is Chimon being so deathly silent? Why does it feel like you did something wrong?

"Huh," Chimon answers simply in that chillingly blank tone. "Interesting."

"Isn't it?" you ask desperately, silently willing Chimon to keep talking, anything to save you from the frenzied headspace that you are suddenly in. Fragments of what Ohm said last night run through your head, and it's all you can do not to bonk your head against the nearest wall from how much you want those thoughts out of your head.

You mean, you don't realize it?

But I've seen the way they look at you, Phi.

Oh my god. So you didn't know. I don't know how you don't, but...just...wow.

He can't be right about Chimon, you tell yourself firmly, nevermind how compelled you feel to verify Ohm's statements. It's not possible. I'm overthinking this.

"Chimon," you try again, almost pleadingly. "Say something. Where's your smartass mouth? You're scaring me here."

"Congratulations, I guess?" Chimon indulges you, but his tone is so off that you almost wish he hadn't said anything at all. "I'm a little surprised, though. All this talk about not being interested in romance and not letting anything distract you...but, well. Nong Ohm is hot, after all. I kind of get why you ate your own words in the end."

"Are you mad at me, Chi?" you finally dare to ask. A few beats of icy quiet, then Chimon chuckles. It sounds forced and wrong and panic builds up in your throat again. 

"Huh? Why would I be mad at you? I should thank you for adding to my list of ships for the betting pool...oh, wait. I should probably keep this a secret. Unless you guys don't mind it not being private."

"Do not spread rumors about me and Ohm, I swear to god, if you do--"

"Fine, fine."

"Anyway. Wanna hang out today?" you ask abruptly, with forced cheer of your own. Maybe bribing him with quality time would soothe the tension, wherever the hell that's coming from. "Lunch outside? Movie binge at my place?"

"Wouldn't you rather spend today making out with Ohm or something?"

" Chimon! "

" Ahem. Dating him, I mean. Sorry for implying that you're not wholesome."

"I already sent him home. Too awkward."

"So you're gonna use me as a distraction."

"Why are you being passive aggressive?" you grumble. "You're making me feel like I should apologize, but I don't know for what."

Chimon just makes a tutting sound. "What's making you think that? And why should you apologize? You just got a rude awakening about how desirable you are and I'm shook at how it happened, that's all. I should be congratulating you - and I already did, by the way."

He's obviously glossing over... whatever the hell this weird air between you is. You want to confront him about it, but knowing your best friend's stubborn streak? You're unlikely to get anything out of him if he doesn't want you to.

"Well, anyway. Hang out later?” you insist instead.

"Yes, yes, as if I can say no to your needy ass. Takeout and Netflix binge starting at noon?"

"Let's do it. What food and genre do you want?"

"Chicken curry, please. And as for the genre..." Somehow, you hear how he smirks mischievously over the line. "I'm in the mood for movies about secret admirers loving the main character from afar. Aren't you?"

As a matter of fact, you are, and you ignore the niggling feeling that Chimon chose that genre for himself, and not just to tease you.

Ohm can't be right. He just can't.

Chimon arrives at your apartment fashionably late, despite being the one who suggested meeting at noon. (Not that that's anything new. The day Chimon arrives on time when you're scheduled to meet is the day hell freezes over.) "Good afternoon, pet," he greets haughtily as soon as you open the door. "Is my lunch ready? Is your living room in home theater mode now? It better be."

You roll your eyes and turn your back as soon as Chimon has crossed the threshold, not even bothering to help him with the duffel bag that's clutched in his hand.

But wait. Why does he have a duffel bag? You stop walking and turn around to stare. Chimon's expression remains unbothered as he closes the front door behind him. You almost forget his odd behavior from earlier.

"We're having a sleepover?" you ask in mild surprise. Not that you mind it - it just catches you off guard, because that wasn't part of the conversation earlier. 

"Sorry I'm not Ohm, but yes, we're having a sleepover," Chimon deadpans. He makes a beeline for your room, presumably to unpack his stuff and make himself at home. You huff.

"Can't wait for me to spill the tea, huh?"

"Of course. I love my tea when it's still boiling hot," he calls from over his shoulder while taking out his toiletries. Then he exits your bedroom to go to the bathroom, obviously to mix his stuff in with yours. "Don't you for a second think that I'm letting you off the hook. I want to hear everything. "

After much ado, you and Chimon finally sit down at the dining table for lunch, the scene giving you a slight sense of déjà vu... except this time, your companion is sitting beside you instead of on the other side of the table. Your elbows bump occasionally as you both dig into your favorite restaurant's signature curry.

After several moments of wolfing down your food, with barely a word exchanged in between, and after taking deep, hearty gulps of water, Chimon puts his glass back down on the table with more force than necessary. You jolt at the loud sound that that causes."So. Korapat Kirdpan. Tell me - how in the world did we go from speculating about Ohm and Tu to you getting the rookie heartthrob in your bed?"

To your dismay, you splutter reflexively at that statement. "You're making it sound like we got hot and heavy and did the deed or something."

"I mean, you were probably just inches away from actually doing that. Let me guess - your prude ass cockblocked the both of you, didn't it?"

You roll your eyes and try not to further show how flustered you are. "What, would you be happier if we had a romp in the sack after all?"

"That would make for a more interesting story, actually."

"Fair enough."

"Now stop delaying and start spilling, or so help me."

And so you tell Chimon everything. When you reach the end of your retelling, your best friend merely gazes at you with sharp eyes, looking like he's contemplating something. You shift uncomfortably in your chair.

"The hell you looking at me like that for?"

"I've always thought that you were aro-ace, did you know that?" he answers casually. (He's never told you that before, but you're not surprised.) "Just imagine my shock right now. In our 10 plus years of friendship, this is my first time seeing you flustered and affected by somebody. Ohm is really something."

"Honestly?" you reply ruefully. "I thought I was too. If you're shocked, just imagine how I'm feeling right now."

"So what are you gonna do next?" Chimon asks. His tone is suddenly low and quiet and you feel dread at his odd vibe again. "Are you gonna make him work for it? Or - maybe you can't help yourself anymore, carpe fucking diem and just go for it, right?

"Mon, you speak as if Ohm's being legit right now," you retort with a roll of your eyes. "For all we know, he might be the type who gets infatuated easily, and loses interest fast. Or maybe he's a fuckboy who just likes the thrill of the chase. Maybe I'm the next target because I'm... I don't know… challenging."

Chimon snorts. "Good. Glad I didn't have to lecture you on being careful and not trusting too easily." Then that shrewd look crops up in his eyes again. "You like him, though. I'm worried that you'd be all talk right now, but fall right into his arms anyway. Just like you did last night."

"Ugh, don't remind me," you grumble. "I hate how last night played out, to be honest. I felt so out of my depth."

"You haven't answered my question yet, though. What are you going to do now?" he insists. "Assuming that he continues to pursue you. I guess I don't know him well enough to predict how he's going to behave, but still."

"I'll shake him off. Treat him like normal. I'm sure he'd get tired of me in no time."

"Or he might not. Maybe you playing hard to get fires him up more. Challenges him to keep going."

"I think as long as I stay sober, I'll be fine."

"Ah. You're right. It was probably the alcohol, wasn't it?" Then Chimon leans closer, eyes squinted. "That's still not a relief, though. When you're inebriated, you're at your most honest. What does that say about you?"

You feel your face flush from that statement. You're reminded again of how much you enjoyed Ohm's touch and his kiss and his attention and-- how do you even defend yourself here?

So you sigh and decide to come clean. "Okay. You got me. I don't think I can be completely immune to this kid. Might need some help."

"Some help, huh?" Chimon answers with glee suddenly sparkling in his eyes. "What kind of help?"

"I guess just a constant reminder not to play into Ohm's hands."

"Oh," he says in a very pleased voice. "No problem. I got you."

To your dismay, Chimon continues to be weird even during your movie binge session.

Because he cuddles up and clings to you, as if the choice of cheesy romantic movies (which aren't even his thing) wasn't suspicious enough.

"What the fuck has gotten into you, Mon? Why are you being such a koala today?" you ask while half-heartedly attempting to get him to unlatch. He currently has his hands wrapped snugly around your right arm and his head resting against your shoulder. 

He just rubs his head against you and snuggles even closer in response.

"Don't be unfair, Non. You slept with a near-stranger but won't even accept cuddles from your best friend?" he asks in a mock hurt tone. "The audacity."

"Huh. You've never been the jealous type, why now?" You stop trying to shake him off and try to refocus on the movie, but his warmth is distracting. Chimon laughs.

"Because I never had to be until now, that's why."

It's difficult, but you choose to let that slide and force yourself to keep your gaze on the TV screen instead.

Much later, after dinner and hours of conversation about the movies and how to interpret them into a theatre play (more for something to argue about than because you actually want to), both your eyes start to droop, so you suggest moving to the bedroom so you can safely pass out even while mid-discussion.

"Sorry I'm not Ohm, it's not our hot rookie whom you'll be cuddling with tonight," Chimon teases before heading to the bathroom with his night clothes. You throw a pillow at him and he cackles when it misses.

"Shut up, Chi."

Then, when you've both completed your nightly rituals and the lights are finally out, you lie on your usual side of the bed, arms stretched upwards and hands pillowed underneath your head, closing your eyes...then suddenly, you feel Chimon edging closer to you.

Your eyes fly open when you feel him resting his head on your left arm, placing his hand on your stomach, and throwing one of his legs over your thighs. You turn to him and splutter. 

"Mon, what the fuck--"

"I'm feeling cuddly tonight," Chimon says drowsily, all nonchalant as if it's common for him to do things like this. He keeps his eyes closed and his expression is more unbothered than you think it ought to be. "I already apologized for not being Ohm. Deal with it."

"Uh, that's not it. You're not typically so clingy, are you okay??"

"Good night."

"Chimon, answer me."

"Love you, go to sleep."

You open your mouth to retort, but your words catch in your throat when you feel him breathing in, deeply like he's trying to inhale your scent, and after exhaling contentedly he snuggles closer and buries his nose into your neck. 

He doesn't say anything further, and you listen to his breathing and turn the day's events over and over in your head for what feels like hours before finally falling asleep.

The morning after is almost as awkward for you as it was when it was Ohm in your arms yesterday, but the stark difference lies in how unflappable Chimon acts from the moment he opens his eyes. Whereas Ohm was uncertain and panicked, Chimon acts like you wake up together in bed daily, whining about getting up at first and tightening his hold and even daring to press a wet, sloppy smooch against your neck (he disregards your yelp of horror, of course) before getting up to go to the kitchen and presumably make breakfast.

After spending a few more minutes staring up at the ceiling in shock, you finally manage to collect yourself and rise, swinging your legs off the bed and dazedly making a beeline for the bathroom. 

After completing your morning rituals, you trudge towards the kitchen where Chimon is cutting up green onions. A tray of eggs, two bowls with red chilis and cloves of garlic each, and a bottle of fish sauce stand in a neat line on the countertop. You draw closer with squinted eyes, trying to figure out what exactly he's cooking.

"I'm making kai jeow, in case you were wondering," Chimon answers absentmindedly. "Do you want chili fried rice or just plain rice?"

"Uh, chili fried rice sounds good," you mumble. Chimon nods approvingly.

 "Great. Me too. Help me prep for that?"

You immediately get started on the rice, and once it's sitting in the rice cooker you join Chimon in fussing around to prepare the necessary ingredients.

Later, after tucking into breakfast, you hesitantly turn towards Chimon.

"Mon, aren't we going to talk about your odd behavior this weekend?" you ask cautiously. You feel dread in the pit of your stomach at the thought of potentially opening Pandora's box, but you can't help it anymore. The need to know is gnawing away at you. "You weren't 100% yourself. Does this have anything to do with...you know?"

"Of course it does," Chimon replies quickly and casually, as if his words didn't have a deeper implication. "It has everything to do with that, actually."

"Elaborate."

He finally looks back at you, one eyebrow raised and a coy grin on his lips. "If you have to ask, then you don't deserve an easy answer. Figure it out yourself."

"Mon," you grumble. It's all you can do not to stomp your feet from how frustrated you are. "What are you playing at? Stop it."

Instead of answering, he draws closer while keeping his eyes on yours. You tamp down the urge to flinch away. 

"Figure it out yourself," he whispers unhelpfully. His smirk stretches wider, and he draws back to escape to the sink with his plate before you could recover and bonk him on the head for being so goddamn cryptic.

"Hello to another morning wherein I hate you," you grumble again while standing up and beginning to clear the table. "Fine, be like that. See if I cover for your late ass during rehearsals this week."

"You will anyway, you love me too much," Chimon counters in a smug, singsong voice. You finally bop him over the head after depositing the dirty dishes in the sink, and he laughs instead of reacting to the pain.

After much ado, Chimon finally decides to end the sleepover and go home for the day.

"Thanks, Non," he says simply before wrapping you up in a tight hug. You return the gesture, embracing him just as tightly and even swaying him from side to side before letting go. He continues to grin brightly up at you as you step back.

"See you at rehearsals."

"See you," you shoot back with a warm smile of your own, waving before he turns and opens the door. He then lets himself out and turns once to wave again before hailing a cab.

You are reminded of Ohm's departure yesterday, except this time your heart no longer beats like it wants to leap out of your chest. Instead, all you feel is a calm sort of fondness. There's a little confusion and worry mixed in, yes, but you decide to wave it away.

(If Chimon doesn't want to talk about it, then why say it out loud and break this delicate balance between you two? As if walking on eggshells around Ohm isn't already challenging enough.)

Unfortunately (or fortunately, your traitorous brain dares think), Ohm happens to be one of the main characters in your new play - a chronic gambler who, due to his debts, is sold by loan sharks into slavery to a family of supernatural origin. 

And it so happens that Ohm's character is sold to your fictional family, with your characters having an odd sort of master-servant dynamic. Or predator-prey, because said species feeds off of human emotions. It was borderline queerbait.

"Really?" you mutter resentfully to yourself while thumbing through the script, you and Chimon (who was miraculously punctual today) sitting cross-legged in a corner while waiting for the whole cast to arrive. "Why did I sign up for this role again?"

"Because it's morally gray?" Chimon answers despite knowing that it was rhetorical. You huff.

"You know what I mean."

He snickers. "I do. I was just trying not to bring him up. But if you want to think about him and feel even more awkward, be my guest."

"I can't really complain, though," you muse. "The script is so chef's kiss. The fact that my character likes having these… near-scandalous conversations to make his prey's emotions more flavorful? And all that emotional trauma he makes Ohm's character relive just for his own fun?" You shake your head, a pleased smile unfurling on your lips. "It's outrageous. I can't wait to watch the audience hate me."

"Look at you sounding like a sadomasochist," Chimon coos. You snort in response. "But I get what you mean. I love that I get to act as the seller - he's a sociopath hiding behind a customer service smile, basically. Imagine enjoying keeping humans caged while they wait to be sold to their deaths. Or close to it. I feel so challenged right now."

The two of you continue to read the script and run lines, until you feel another presence approach. You look up and see Ohm walking slowly towards you, as if afraid that you would spook if he makes any sudden movements.

"Hi P'Nanon, P'Chimon. May I sit with you?" he asks politely, waving his script in the air. Your eyes flicker down to the familiar paper bag in his free hand. "I was hoping to run some lines since we have scenes together. If that's alright."

You turn to Chimon and notice his slightly cold expression. Nevertheless, your best friend nods. "Sure, Nong. We've been running lines too, you might as well join."

Ohm seems to sigh in relief before sitting down, noticeably choosing the spot closer to you and subtly placing the paper bag within your reach. He probably meant to give that back without Chimon noticing - which is honestly impossible now, given how Chimon now knows pretty much everything.

"Which part of the script are you running lines for?" Ohm asks. You turn your script towards him and point to where you and Chimon stopped, just before he arrived.

"The part where I and my family visit the seller's - Chimon's - shop to look at the 'merchandise'," you answer, making air quotes with one hand. Ohm's eyes sparkle at that.

"Well, excellent. That's where our first interaction is, right?"

"Yeah."

"Ours too," Chimon butts in, checking his nails nonchalantly, but the frosty aura suddenly surrounding him is unmistakable. "You've got excellent timing."

It takes Ohm a few seconds to react. He's obviously uncomfortable around Chimon and you almost want to smack your friend for being so prickly.

"I'm glad!" he finally manages to chirp after a few seconds, nevermind that his cheer is a little forced. "Shall we, then?"

And so the three of you rehearse that scene, until P'Gun finally moves to the center of the stage and claps his hands, motioning for everybody to come closer. "Okay, crew. I see that everybody's present. Come here so we can get started."

Rehearsal goes...well, as smoothly as one can expect the first rehearsal to go. Some stilted dialogue and unnatural acting here and there, but nothing too terrible. 

You've been through worse, so all things considered you'd say that it was a pretty good first run.

"Milk, Non, great execution of the feeding scenes," P'Gun commends you as he pats you and your co-actor on the shoulder. "Loved the contrast of Milk's guilt against Nanon's lack of remorse. Just work on being less awkward with Nong Ohm then we should be golden." He turns to you with a strict expression. "Especially you, Non - you've done this before. Don't hold back just because he's young. Okay?" You both nod, your lips flattening into a thin line as P'Gun moves on to Chimon. 

"Mon, excellent interpretation of your character. The way you spoke gave me goosebumps. Keep it up." 

Then the director's eyes light up when he reaches Ohm. As with you and Milk, the smaller man tiptoes to pat the six-footer rookie on the shoulder, but with his commanding aura it doesn't look as amusing as it probably would've if done by a lesser man. "And you, Nong Ohm - I have no words. The anguish over being sold...over losing your life as you knew it...your panic at being consumed. Chef's kiss. Whatever's in your coffee, keep drinking it, kid."

"Wow. Thank you, P'Gun," he says shyly, one hand rising to rub his nape. "I appreciate it. Any points for improvement?"

Later, when rehearsal ends, you're not at all surprised when you notice Ohm approaching you. 

Then you notice how his hopeful grin falters at the sight of Chimon's glower. You almost laugh out loud.

"Hey Nong," Chimon greets amiably, but years of knowing him tips you off on the hostility underneath. "What can we do for you?"

"Ah... nothing much. I was just-" Ohm clears his throat and shifts his weight uncomfortably. "I was just wondering if. Um. If P'Nanon is busy this evening."

"I'm not-" you begin, but Chimon beats you to it. "Actually," your best friend answers haughtily. "We are. We have somewhere to be after this. Why?"

The way Ohm's face falls reminds you of a kicked puppy. You also kick yourself mentally for thinking of it as cute. "Oh. Okay. I was just hoping to discuss the play. I want to improve our dynamics because I know it's a little awkward and...you know. Maybe some one-on-ones would help."

"Fair. Maybe next time? Just not today," Chimon asserts.

You feel absolutely torn between indulging the kid and letting Chimon "protect" you.

"Alrighty then," Ohm concedes sadly. He turns to you. "Phi, just let me know when you're free?"

"Yeah," you agree absentmindedly. Your junior's eyes sparkle with glee.

"'Kay. Looking forward to it then," he chirps, waving energetically before turning and walking away.

Chimon rounds on you the moment he's out of earshot. "What happened to not playing into the young fuckboy's hands??"

You splutter at Chimon's candor. "Oh shit. You really went there."

"Of course I did. It's the truth."

A part of you wants to defend him, but why should you? It's not like you know him. All you know is that he's charming and persistent, and not much else. Chimon might actually be onto something.

So you shut your mouth mid-retort and shrug instead. "It's not like I committed to anything."

Your (apparently overprotective) best friend rolls his eyes. "You didn't say no. You might as well have just said yes."

"It'll be fine."

"It won't. Oh god, I can't let you out of my sight now, can I?"

There it is again. His unnaturally possessive behavior that’s making your mind reel.

You'll really need to open Pandora’s box sooner or later, huh?