Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sound of the keyboard echoed through the spacious and elegant office on the top floor of Jitaraphol Enterprises. From the glass window, the entire city of Phnom Penh stretched out under the orange evening sky. However, Jimmy Jitaraphol didn’t allow himself to enjoy the view. His attention was fixed on the laptop screen, meticulously reviewing the quarterly financial report.

His routine had been the same for years: working late, eating in the office, and occasionally sleeping there when the workload demanded it. He had convinced himself that this pace was necessary to keep his company afloat, but deep down, he knew the truth.

Work was his refuge.

Since his marriage had failed, Jimmy had clung to his routine to avoid thinking about what he had lost. There was no time for distractions, much less for unnecessary emotions.

The office door swung open abruptly, interrupting his focus.

“Jimmy!” Force, his best friend, exclaimed with his usual energy.

Jimmy sighed and didn’t even look up from the screen.

“If you’re here to ask me to invest in another one of your crazy ideas, the answer is no.”

“Oh, relax. I’m not here to ask for money. I’m here to save your life.”

Force dropped into the chair across the desk with a satisfied grin. He wore a slightly unbuttoned white shirt and sunglasses on his head, as if he were ready for a beach party.

Jimmy finally looked at him with exasperation.

“Force, I’m busy.”

“Yes, I can see that. Like every day, all the time. That’s why I’ve already made a decision for you.”

Jimmy frowned.

“I don’t like surprises.”

“Well, you’re going to love this one. We’re going to Bangkok. Tomorrow.”

Jimmy stared at him in silence, trying to process his words.

“No.”

“Yes.”

“I’m not going.”

“Oh, yes, you are. I’ve already booked the tickets, the hotel, everything.”

Jimmy rubbed the bridge of his nose in frustration.

“Force, I can’t just disappear from the company like that.”

“You have a highly qualified team that can handle things without you for a few days. Come on, man, you need a break. You’re living like an old man.”

Jimmy thought about it for a moment. The idea of leaving everything behind and going on a trip seemed absurd.

But on the other hand, could changing his routine for a few days be that bad?

“Why Bangkok?” he finally asked.

Force grinned triumphantly.

“Because that’s where your summer of freedom begins, my friend.”

---

Days later, in Bangkok

The sticky heat of the city enveloped them as soon as they got off the plane. The bustling streets, neon lights, and vibrant energy of Bangkok were completely different from the controlled coldness of Jimmy’s office. He couldn’t help but feel out of place.

They checked into a luxury hotel in the heart of the city. Jimmy had barely had time to unpack when Force dragged him out of the room.

“Come on, the night is young.”

“I don’t like bars.”

“You’ll like this one.”

Jimmy didn’t bother arguing. He knew Force wouldn’t relent until he agreed.

The nightclub was packed. Music pounded against the walls, neon lights flashed in vibrant colors, and people moved freely, surrendering to the euphoria of the night. Jimmy sat at the bar, ordering a whiskey while Force disappeared into the crowd.

That’s when the accident happened.

“Oh, God! I’m so sorry!”

Jimmy felt the cold liquid soak his shirt. He looked up, frowning, and met a pair of wide, frightened eyes.

It was a young bartender with light brown hair and a panicked expression. He held a napkin in his hand and was desperately trying to clean up the spilled drink.

“I-I’m really sorry. It wasn’t my intention…”

Jimmy should have been angry. His expensive shirt was ruined. But instead, he remained silent, observing him.

“It’s fine.” His voice came out softer than expected.

The bartender looked up, surprised.

“You’re not mad?”

“No. What’s your name?”

The young man blinked several times before answering timidly.

“Sea. My name is Sea.”

Jimmy studied him for a moment. There was something about him… something different.

Maybe this trip wouldn’t be such a bad idea after all.

Chapter Text

The night in Bangkok moved at a frenetic pace. Music vibrated against the bar walls, and neon lights flickered in warm, electric hues. Jimmy, usually indifferent to such environments, sat at the bar with a glass of whiskey in hand.

He hadn't planned to stay this long, but every time he tried to leave, Force would appear with another round of drinks and a mischievous grin. Book, the guy Force was flirting with, had joined the conversation, and somehow, Sea had ended up trapped in it as well.

"So, Jimmy," Book said playfully, "are you always this serious?"

Jimmy cast him a sidelong glance and took another sip of his drink.

"Only when I'm surrounded by people who are too loud."

Force burst out laughing and slung an arm around Book's shoulders.

"Translation: he's starting to loosen up."

Jimmy scoffed but didn’t deny it. Maybe the alcohol was taking effect because, for the first time in a long while, he didn’t feel the weight of work pressing down on him.

As the conversation flowed, Jimmy couldn't help but focus on Sea. The young bartender had finished his shift and had stayed with them, more due to Book and Force's insistence than his own choice.

"You don’t seem like someone who enjoys parties," Jimmy commented, a hint of curiosity in his tone.

Sea shrugged and smiled shyly.

"I don’t usually stay long. But... sometimes, it's good to change the routine."

Jimmy slowly nodded. He understood that feeling perfectly.

Minutes turned into hours. The whiskey bottle emptied and was replaced with another. Jimmy wasn’t sure how much he had drunk, but he knew it was more than usual. His mind was clouded, his movements slower, but he also felt strangely light.

At some point in the night, Force and Book disappeared, leaving Jimmy and Sea alone at the table. The music still pounded around them, but Jimmy’s attention was fixed solely on the young man before him.

"Do you always work here?" Jimmy asked, his voice rougher than usual.

Sea looked at him with a curious expression.

"For now. It helps me pay the rent."

Jimmy frowned. The thought of Sea struggling to get by didn’t sit well with him.

"You shouldn’t be here. You deserve something better."

Sea let out a soft laugh.

"And how do you know that? You barely know me."

Jimmy smiled as well, not entirely sure why.

"I just do."

The silence between them grew heavy with an inexplicable tension. Jimmy leaned slightly forward, and Sea, perhaps due to the alcohol or the intensity of the older man’s gaze, didn’t pull away.

"I think I should take you to your hotel," Sea finally said. "You don’t seem in a condition to go back alone."

Jimmy blinked slowly and nodded.

"Good idea."

With more difficulty than expected, Sea managed to help Jimmy out of the bar. The night air hit his warm skin, but it didn’t clear his mind. He barely remembered how they got to the hotel or how his own body moved.

The only thing he recalled with absolute clarity was the sensation of lips against his, the warmth of another body against his own, and the certainty that this night would change something inside him forever.

Chapter Text

The sun filtered through the thick hotel curtains, filling the room with a warm, golden light. Jimmy felt the irritation of the first rays against his face before slowly opening his eyes. His head throbbed with the unmistakable pain of a hangover, and his throat was as dry as a desert.

He let out a low groan, trying to move, but that was when he felt the weight of an unfamiliar arm draped across his torso. His body tensed immediately. He blinked several times before turning his head and finding Sea, deeply asleep beside him.

The young man was curled up, his face partially buried in the pillow, his breathing steady and calm. The sheet barely covered half of his body, revealing his bare back and the curve of his waist.

Jimmy held his breath as his mind struggled to piece together the scattered fragments of the previous night. He remembered drinking too much, he remembered the way Sea's gaze had captivated him, he remembered the heat of his skin against his own...

"Shit…" he muttered to himself, closing his eyes in frustration.

He was not a man who acted without thinking. He was not someone who let himself be carried away by impulses. And yet, there he was, waking up in bed with a young man he barely knew.

Sea shifted slightly, mumbling something in his sleep before half-opening his eyes. He remained silent for a moment, staring at Jimmy in confusion, until realization suddenly hit him. His eyes widened completely, and he immediately sat up, pulling the sheet around him.

"Oh, God!" he exclaimed, his voice hoarse. "I... I'm so sorry!"

Jimmy ran a hand over his face, trying to organize his thoughts.

"Don't apologize."

"But… how did we end up here?" Sea asked, clearly embarrassed.

Jimmy exhaled slowly and sat up as well, leaning his back against the headboard.

"Your guess is as blurry as mine. But I don’t think it was just the alcohol."

Sea looked at him in surprise and then averted his gaze. His expression was a mix of nervousness and uncertainty.

"I never…" he started, but then fell silent, as if unsure how to finish the sentence. Finally, he took a deep breath and rubbed his face with both hands. "This is crazy."

Jimmy observed him for a moment before nodding slightly.

"It is."

The silence between them grew heavy. Sea fidgeted nervously with the sheet, while Jimmy ran a hand through his disheveled hair. Neither seemed to know what to say or how to approach the situation.

Finally, Sea let out a sigh and looked at Jimmy.

"I guess I should go."

Jimmy felt a slight pang in his chest at those words but nodded slowly.

"If that's what you want."

Sea hesitated for a second, as if expecting Jimmy to say something more, but when that didn’t happen, he simply got out of bed and began searching for his clothes scattered around the room. Jimmy watched him in silence, noticing how his body still trembled slightly, either from the cold or from nerves.

When Sea was finally dressed, he turned to Jimmy, who was still sitting on the bed.

"Thanks for… well, for everything."

Jimmy nodded without responding, and after one last glance, Sea left the room.

The sound of the door closing echoed in the empty space. Jimmy let out a long sigh and sank back against the pillows. What had happened was not just a simple mistake, and he knew it.

What he didn’t understand was why, despite everything, letting Sea go felt like an even bigger mistake.

Chapter Text

Jimmy was still lying on the bed, staring at the ceiling of the hotel room. The hangover pounded in his head, but what bothered him most wasn't the physical pain—it was the confusion in his mind. He ran a hand over his neck and felt the tenderness of his skin. Lowering his gaze, he noticed several reddish marks on his chest and collarbone.

Scratches. Hickeys.

The traces of the previous night were there, on his skin, reminding him that it hadn’t been a dream or just a drunken fantasy. He ran his tongue over his lips and closed his eyes for a moment. It had been years since he’d woken up with marks from a night of passion. Since his ex-wife, he had never been with anyone in that way. And now, after so long, the first person to leave their mark on him was a young bartender from Bangkok he barely knew.

A soft knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts. He groaned, rubbing his face, and forced himself up with some effort. When he opened the door, he found Force grinning mischievously.

"Good morning, sleepyhead! How are you feeling?" Force asked, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation.

Jimmy sighed, closing the door behind him.

"Like a truck ran over me."

Force chuckled and flopped into one of the chairs in the room.

"That’s what happens when you don’t know how to drink like an adult. Although…" He gave Jimmy a sharp look, his smile widening. "It seems the night wasn’t all bad."

Jimmy frowned.

"What are you talking about?"

Force gestured toward his neck and chest with a smug expression.

"Dude, you don’t have to tell me anything. Those marks speak for themselves. Who was the lucky one?"

Jimmy grunted, running a hand over his neck, as if trying to hide the evidence.

"None of your business."

"Oh, come on! It’s not every day I see the great Jimmy Jitaraphol tangled up with someone." Force leaned forward, curiosity dancing in his eyes. "Was it Sea?"

Jimmy didn’t answer, but his silence was confirmation enough. Force let out a low whistle, clearly impressed.

"Damn… Didn’t see that coming, but now that I think about it, there was definitely chemistry between you two last night."

Jimmy let himself fall back onto the bed, exhaling heavily.

"I don’t know what I was thinking."

"Enjoying yourself, I suppose." Force shrugged. "Which isn’t a bad thing, Jimmy. You deserve it. Or are you going to tell me you didn’t like it?"

Jimmy didn’t answer right away. He couldn’t lie—what had happened with Sea had shaken him in a way he hadn’t expected. It hadn’t just been the alcohol. There was something more. Something new. Something he couldn’t ignore.

At that moment, another knock sounded at the door. Force got up and, without waiting for permission, opened it. On the other side stood Book and, to Jimmy’s surprise, Sea. The young bartender looked nervous, his hands stuffed in his pockets, avoiding Jimmy’s gaze.

"Hey, look who showed up," Book said with an amused smile. "Did you two have a good night?"

Sea cleared his throat and nudged Book lightly.

"Not the time for jokes," he murmured before looking up at Jimmy. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay… after last night."

Jimmy felt something in his chest at those words. He nodded slowly.

"I’m fine. Thanks."

Force and Book exchanged knowing glances before Force grinned mischievously.

"Well, we’re heading down for breakfast. Want to join us, or would you rather keep ‘talking’ in private?" he asked, emphasizing the last word.

Sea flushed slightly, but Jimmy didn’t take the bait.

"We’ll join you," he replied firmly.

Sea looked relieved and nodded as well. As they left the room, Jimmy couldn’t help but notice how Sea avoided looking at him directly. But he also saw the way his hand tensed, as if he wanted to reach out but didn’t dare.

He didn’t know what last night meant, but he knew one thing—something had changed inside him. And for the first time in a long while, he wasn’t sure he wanted to ignore it.

Chapter Text

The hotel restaurant was relatively quiet at that hour of the morning. Jimmy, Force, Book, and Sea sat at a table by the window, where the sunlight cast a golden glow over their plates. However, for Jimmy, the food in front of him was the last thing on his mind.

Seated directly across from him, Sea avoided making eye contact. Ever since they came down together, the young man had kept his eyes fixed on his cup of coffee, stirring the liquid almost absentmindedly. Book and Force, on the other hand, seemed completely unaware of the tension lingering in the air.

“So, Jimmy,” Force began with a teasing grin, “what’s the plan for today? I hope you’re not planning to bury yourself in work again. We’re on vacation, in case you forgot.”

Jimmy looked up and set his fork down on the plate.

“I don’t have any plans yet,” he replied neutrally.

“Perfect,” Book chimed in. “We could go to the beach. There’s a spot not too far from here that’s pretty quiet with an amazing view. Plus, I’d love to see Sea in a swimsuit.” He let out a laugh as Sea shot him a glare.

“Shut up, Book,” Sea muttered, but his cheeks turned slightly pink.

Jimmy observed that reaction with more attention than he cared to admit. Something inside him stirred with a mix of curiosity and… irritation? He wasn’t used to feeling these kinds of emotions, let alone for someone he had just met.

Force, of course, didn’t miss the chance to add fuel to the fire.

“Wow, Sea, why are you getting so nervous? It’s just a swimsuit. Or… are you feeling awkward after last night?” he asked with a sly smile.

Sea coughed slightly and finally looked up at Jimmy for the first time since they sat down. His eyes held uncertainty, as if searching for an answer to something even he didn’t understand.

Jimmy cleared his throat, shifting his gaze away. He didn’t want Force or Book to notice what was really going through his mind.

“The beach sounds fine,” he said, cutting off any further conversation about the previous night.

Force seemed disappointed that he hadn’t taken the bait, but he didn’t push further. The rest of breakfast passed with lighter conversations, though Jimmy and Sea barely exchanged words.

---

Later, they headed to the beach. The crystal-clear water and white sand looked like something out of a postcard. Book and Force ran toward the shore with the energy of children, while Sea and Jimmy remained a bit behind, walking at a more relaxed pace.

“About last night…” Sea began, breaking the silence between them.

Jimmy glanced sideways at the young man, waiting for him to continue.

“I don’t usually do things like that,” Sea admitted, watching his own feet sink into the sand. “I don’t know what happened. I guess… I just got caught up in the moment.”

Jimmy took a deep breath, feeling the sea breeze against his skin. He knew he should say something, but he wasn’t sure what. He wasn’t someone who did things like that either. He had always been a man of discipline and control. However, when he was with Sea, all of that seemed to disappear.

“You don’t regret it, do you?” he finally asked, his voice more serious than he had intended.

Sea stopped walking and looked him in the eyes. For a few seconds, neither of them spoke. Then, with a slight, nervous smile, Sea shook his head.

“No,” he whispered. “Do you?”

Jimmy didn’t answer immediately. Instead, his eyes traced Sea’s face, taking in every little detail. His cheeks still held a faint flush, and his dark hair moved slightly in the breeze. He looked so young, so different from everything Jimmy knew.

“No,” he answered at last. “I don’t regret it.”

Sea smiled timidly, and for the first time since waking up together, the tension between them seemed to ease a little. But then, before they could say anything else, Force and Book called out to them from the shore.

“Come on, lovebirds! The water is amazing!” Force shouted.

Jimmy rolled his eyes while Sea chuckled softly. Without saying another word, they walked toward their friends, leaving their doubts and fears behind… at least for now.

Chapter Text

The sun shone brightly over the beach, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore created an almost hypnotic atmosphere. Force and Book were already in the water, splashing and laughing like children, while Jimmy and Sea remained on the sand, watching them in silence.

Jimmy, with his sunglasses on, stared at the horizon with apparent calm, but his mind was far from peaceful. Ever since that night with Sea, his thoughts had been a whirlwind. It wasn’t just about spending the night together; it was the way his body reacted every time he saw him, the way his gaze involuntarily drifted toward him.

“Don’t you like swimming?” Sea suddenly asked, pulling him from his thoughts.

Jimmy turned to look at him. The young man was sitting with his knees bent, his feet buried in the sand, absentmindedly playing with a handful of grains. The sunlight highlighted his golden skin and slightly tousled hair.

“It’s not that,” Jimmy replied. “I’m just… not used to relaxing.”

Sea let out a small laugh and shook his head.

“Yeah, I noticed. Force said you’re a workaholic.” He glanced at him with an amused smile. “Is that true?”

Jimmy sighed. He couldn’t deny it.

“Maybe a little.”

Sea shook his head and stood up, brushing the sand off his hands.

“Come on,” he said, extending a hand to him. “Let’s go in the water.”

Jimmy raised an eyebrow, but Sea insisted with a challenging look.

“I won’t take no for an answer.”

For some reason, Jimmy couldn’t resist. With a resigned sigh, he took Sea’s hand and let himself be led toward the shore. The water was warm, wrapping around their feet with a refreshing sensation as they slowly waded in, heading toward where Force and Book were playing.

“Look who decided to join us!” Book shouted, splashing water in their direction.

Jimmy frowned, but Sea laughed before splashing back, triggering a small water fight between the four of them. Jimmy tried to stay out of it, but when Force aimed a direct splash at his face, he had no choice but to retaliate.

Minutes passed in laughter and games. For the first time in a long while, Jimmy felt something close to carefree enjoyment. However, his attention always returned to Sea—to the way the water slid down his skin, to the way his smile lit up his face. It was as if the young man radiated an energy that irresistibly drew him in.

At one point, Sea moved away slightly from the group, walking until the water reached his waist. Jimmy followed him without thinking.

“You look different when you smile,” Sea commented, looking at him curiously.

Jimmy tilted his head.

“Different how?”

“Less… stiff. Less CEO and more… human.”

Jimmy let out a soft chuckle, though he felt a pang in his chest. Was that how people saw him? As someone cold and mechanical? He knew he had buried himself in work for years, but hearing Sea say it so directly made him realize just how much he had changed.

“I guess I got too used to my routine,” he admitted, lowering his gaze. “I don’t usually allow myself moments like this.”

Sea observed him in silence before offering a gentle smile.

“Well, you should do it more often. It suits you.”

Jimmy didn’t know how to respond. He just kept looking at him, caught in the intensity of his eyes. In that moment, nothing else existed—just the sound of the ocean, the warmth of the sun, and Sea’s presence so close to him.

Before he realized it, his hand moved on its own, brushing against Sea’s fingers under the water. The young man didn’t pull away. On the contrary, he intertwined his fingers with Jimmy’s, squeezing gently.

“Sea…” Jimmy murmured, feeling his pulse quicken.

“Shhh…” Sea smiled, bringing a finger to his lips. “Don’t overthink it.”

And for the first time in years, Jimmy decided to listen to his heart instead of his head.

Chapter Text

The day passed with unexpected calm. After the walk on the beach, the group returned to the hotel, tired but smiling. Force and Book locked themselves in their room without saying much more, laughing about something only they understood, while Sea and Jimmy rode the elevator in silence.

When the door opened on their floor, Jimmy looked at Sea a second longer than necessary before saying:

"I'm going to take a shower..." and with a slight gesture, entered his room.

Sea nodded without saying anything, but his heart was pounding like he'd just run a marathon. He walked into his own room, closed the door softly, and dropped onto the bed with a sigh.

He placed a hand over his chest. What was happening to him? Why did every little gesture from Jimmy, every word, even his silences, make him feel so nervous and excited at the same time?

He tried to distract himself by turning on the TV, but soon lost interest. Instead, he went to the small desk in the room and pulled out a notebook he always carried with him. Though no one knew, Sea had the habit of jotting down little notes or thoughts when he couldn’t make sense of his emotions.

He opened a fresh page and wrote:

"Today, when he held my hand in the water, I felt like the world stopped. It’s ridiculous, I know. I don’t know what we are. I don’t know if it meant anything to him. But for me... it was like someone truly saw me for the first time."

He quickly closed the notebook, as if afraid someone might read what he'd just written. He lay on the bed, hugging one of the pillows tightly. His body still ached slightly from what had happened the night before, though he hid it well. The marks on his neck—small hickeys and a scratch or two—were proof that what had happened between them wasn’t just a casual encounter.

But… what had it really been?

A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.

Sea got up quickly, surprised. He opened the door and, to his surprise, it was Jimmy, with damp hair, already changed into a simple t-shirt and soft pants.

"Do you mind if I invite you for a walk? I can’t sleep," he said, not taking his eyes off Sea’s.

Sea smiled, feeling his heart skip a beat.

"Give me a minute."

He changed quickly, and within five minutes, they were going down the elevator again. This time there were no background laughs, no bright sunlight, just the gentle night breeze of Bangkok and the comfortable silence between two people starting to know each other beyond words.

They walked along a quiet street, passing small night stands and shops still open. Sea stopped in front of an ice cream cart.

"Want one?" he asked, looking at Jimmy with a playful smile.

"Ice cream at this hour?"

"Yes. It’s sweet and cold. Might help you relax."

Jimmy hesitated for a second but ended up nodding. Sea ordered two, one coconut and one mango, and handed the coconut one to Jimmy.

"Thanks," said the CEO, bringing it to his lips. "It’s good."

"I knew you'd like it."

They continued walking with the ice cream in hand, talking about silly things. Suddenly, Jimmy looked at him with a softer expression than usual.

"I don’t talk much about myself," he said suddenly, "but with you… it feels different. Like I don’t have to pretend to be someone else."

Sea stopped for a moment and looked at him intently. The sincerity in Jimmy’s voice disarmed him.

"Then don’t pretend. Just be yourself with me."

And as if that sentence had unlocked something in him, Jimmy stepped forward, gently placed a hand on the back of Sea’s neck, and kissed him. It wasn’t a hurried kiss like the one the night before. It was slow, tender, as if he wanted to memorize the feeling.

Sea responded without thinking, letting himself get carried away by the warmth of the moment. When they pulled apart, Jimmy rested his forehead against Sea’s, closing his eyes.

"I don’t know what will happen after this," he whispered. "But I want to find out with you."

Sea smiled, his lips still tingling from the kiss.

"Me too."

And just like that, under Bangkok’s soft lights, between whispers and melting ice cream, something more than a summer romance began.

Chapter Text

The room was dimly lit. The lights of the city filtered through the window, casting soft shadows on the walls. Jimmy closed the door behind them, and for a moment, they both stood in silence, staring at each other, as if unsure of what to do next… or as if everything they wanted to do was already clear, but neither wanted to break the magic of the moment.

Sea was the first to move, walking slowly to the center of the room, his cheeks flushed and eyes locked on Jimmy. He said nothing, but his gaze said everything.

Jimmy approached him, unhurriedly, as if each step carried weight, as if moving too fast would cause Sea to disappear.

"Are you sure?" he asked in a low, husky voice, stopping just inches away.

Sea nodded slowly.

"I don’t want this to be just another night," he whispered. "Not with you."

Jimmy raised a hand and gently cupped his cheek, brushing his thumb over the soft skin. Then, he leaned in and kissed him—a slow, deep kiss that spoke more than any words. Sea responded immediately, clutching at Jimmy’s shirt like he needed something solid to hold onto while the world spun.

As they kissed, Jimmy took him by the waist and guided him toward the bed, never breaking eye contact. They sat first, lips finding each other again and again, each time hungrier, needier. Their hands began to explore more confidently—Jimmy’s tracing down Sea’s back, and Sea’s brushing along his arms, neck, and chest, feeling the heat of his skin through the fabric.

Jimmy’s shirt was the first to go, and Sea couldn’t resist trailing his fingers over the toned lines of his abdomen. Jimmy looked at him with a crooked smile before starting to slowly unbutton Sea’s shirt, kissing every bit of skin he revealed.

"You’re beautiful," Jimmy murmured, his voice thick with desire and tenderness.

Sea closed his eyes, shivering—not just from the heat of the moment, but from the way Jimmy’s voice made him feel. He’d never felt so seen, so wanted, and so cared for all at once.

The kisses grew deeper, more urgent. Jimmy carefully laid him down on the bed, bracing himself above him as their bodies pressed together. Their sighs mixed with soft, nervous laughs; gentle caresses melted into heated touches.

Jimmy took his time—there was no rush. He kissed every part of Sea’s body as if discovering something precious. Sea’s neck, still marked from the night before, received special attention. Sea tangled his fingers in Jimmy’s hair, arching into him, soft moans slipping from his lips and filling the room like intimate music.

The sheets twisted beneath their entangled bodies. The heat between them built, their movements becoming more in sync, more intimate. Jimmy paused every so often to look into Sea’s eyes, to make sure he was okay, that they were truly in this together. And Sea, with every look, responded with a gentle smile that seemed to say: Yes, I’m here with you. Yes, I want this just as much.

Hours later, when desire had melted into peace, they lay tangled in each other under the crumpled sheet, bodies bare and breath slowing. Jimmy absentmindedly traced lazy circles on Sea’s back with the tip of his fingers.

"I never thought one night with you could feel like this," he murmured.

Sea looked up from Jimmy’s chest, wearing a sleepy smile.

"Like what?"

Jimmy thought for a moment.

"Like I finally stopped running… and came home."

Sea said nothing. He simply closed his eyes, snuggling closer to him, and let the silence wrap around them. A warm silence, full of promises, of quiet connection… and something both of them were beginning, unknowingly, to call love.

Chapter Text

The next morning, the sun slipped gently through the slightly open curtain. The air in the room was warm, calm... and different. Jimmy was the first to open his eyes, used to waking early even while on vacation. For a few seconds, he didn’t move. He simply stared at the boy sleeping beside him.

Sea was curled up against him, face half-buried in his chest, breathing softly. His messy hair and the pure calm on his face made him look even younger, more vulnerable... more real.

Jimmy didn’t know why, but a pang stirred in his chest. Something between fear and tenderness. He gently stroked Sea’s back, not intending to wake him, just wanting to prolong the moment where everything felt perfectly in place.

It didn’t take long before Sea stirred, slowly opening his eyes. The first thing he saw was Jimmy’s chest, and then he looked up to meet those intense eyes watching him.

"Good morning…" Sea murmured, a little embarrassed as the memories from the night before returned.

Jimmy smiled and brushed a strand of hair from his forehead.

"Good morning, sleepyhead."

Sea buried his face in the pillow, laughing softly.

"Don’t look at me like that… it’s embarrassing."

"Embarrassed about what?" Jimmy asked, leaning down to kiss his forehead. "Being here with me… or how you moaned my name last night?"

Sea let out a muffled laugh and gently smacked his chest with the pillow.

"You’re such an idiot!"

"And you’re adorable."

They stared at each other in silence for a moment. There was no rush, no urgent words. Just the feeling of being exactly where they were supposed to be.

After a quick shower together—filled with more kisses than soap—they headed down for breakfast. Force and Book were already seated, caught in their usual rhythm of laughter, lingering glances, and playful teasing.

Book was the first to raise an eyebrow as he saw them arriving together.

"Sleep well?" he asked with a suspicious grin.

Sea turned bright red and tried to hide behind Jimmy, who simply sat down as if nothing had happened.

"Like a baby," Jimmy replied with a half-smile.

Force gave them a side glance, but instead of teasing, he just said:

"I’m glad to see you smiling again, Jimmy."

The comment caught Jimmy off guard. He looked at his friend, grateful, then turned to Sea. His smile softened.

Yes. He was smiling again. And it was all thanks to him.

After breakfast, the group decided to split up for a while. Force and Book went off to explore a nearby art gallery, while Jimmy asked Sea to join him for a walk through a park not far from the hotel.

The park was peaceful, with tall trees, flower-lined paths, and wooden benches scattered throughout. They walked slowly, talking about simple things: Thai food, music, movies… soft laughter mixed with comfortable silences.

At one point, Sea stopped in front of an artificial lake and stared at the water in silence.

"I never thought you and I…" he began, not daring to look at Jimmy. "That someone like you would ever notice someone like me."

Jimmy looked at him, stepping closer from behind. He placed his hands on Sea’s shoulders and rested his forehead against his head.

"Don’t say that. You’re amazing, Sea. You’re real, sweet, strong… and you make all of this make sense."

Sea slowly turned, his eyes glistening.

"I don’t want to lose you."

Jimmy held his face with both hands.

"Then don’t let go."

And he kissed him right there, not caring about the few people walking nearby. Because in that moment, the world around them ceased to matter.

Jimmy didn’t know it yet, but his heart had begun to open. And Sea, with all his clumsiness, smiles, and silences, was starting to occupy a place no one had touched in years.

Chapter Text

The day carried on with a soft warmth and a breeze that caressed the streets of Bangkok. Jimmy and Sea had spent the whole morning walking around, exploring local shops, trying street sweets, taking silly pictures, and laughing at the slightest excuse. It was easy with him. Everything was easy with Sea.

But like all calm moments, something eventually came to stir the waters.

After lunch, they stepped into a small artsy café to cool off. The place was cozy, with walls covered in illustrations by local artists, rustic wooden tables, and a relaxed atmosphere. Jimmy went to find a table while Sea went up to the counter to order.

And that’s when it happened.

A young guy with an alternative look, visible tattoos, and a confident vibe got a little too close to Sea. Jimmy noticed it immediately from his seat. The guy was smiling, touching Sea’s arm lightly while talking. Sea, visibly uncomfortable, tried to keep his distance politely.

Jimmy narrowed his eyes. He wasn’t a naturally jealous person, but seeing someone else flirting with Sea… he didn’t like it one bit.

When Sea came back with the drinks, he looked a little nervous. Jimmy didn’t say anything at first, just looked at him with an expression Sea instantly recognized.

"Something wrong?" Sea asked, setting the drinks on the table.

"That guy at the counter—do you know him?"

Sea quickly shook his head.

"No, he just… started talking to me, asked if I was local, if I worked nearby… stuff like that."

Jimmy stayed silent for a moment. Then he gently caressed Sea’s hand.

"I saw him touching you. I didn’t like it."

Sea lowered his gaze, looking slightly guilty.

"I didn’t do anything, I swear. It was uncomfortable."

Jimmy sighed—not in anger, but in frustration with himself.

"I know. I’m not mad at you. I just… realized I don’t want anyone else looking at you the way I do. It’s stupid, isn’t it?"

Sea looked up at him with a small smile.

"No, it’s not stupid. It’s sweet. You’re mine too, you know?"

Jimmy laced their fingers together and leaned in to kiss Sea’s hand.

"Then if that guy comes near you again, I’ll throw him into the nearest canal."

Sea laughed out loud, drawing the attention of a nearby couple.

"You’re jealous and dramatic! I love it."

"And you drive me crazy."

The conversation drifted into lighter topics, and the jealousy faded, replaced by gentle touches under the table, shared glances, and a tenderness that was settling deeper between them.

That night, when they returned to the hotel, Force was waiting with a look that suggested he’d had an equally interesting day. Book was lounging on the sofa, hair still damp and his neck covered in love bites.

"Looks like I wasn’t the only one who had a fun day," Force commented with a wink.

Jimmy and Sea exchanged a quiet smile. They didn’t need to show off. What they had was quieter, slower… but no less powerful.

And though jealousy had shown its teeth, it also made one thing clear: the bond between them was only growing stronger.

Chapter Text

The sound of the phone broke the peaceful silence of the room. Jimmy, still half-asleep, reached for it blindly without checking the number.

"Yes?" he grumbled, his voice rough.

On the other end, his personal assistant’s voice in Cambodia sounded tense.

"Mr. Jitaraphol, I’m sorry for the hour. But there’s a serious issue with one of the major investors. You need to come back. Today, if possible."

Jimmy sat up in bed, now fully awake. Beside him, Sea was still sleeping soundly, hugging a pillow. Jimmy closed his eyes with frustration. Just when things were starting to go well…

Two hours later, Sea watched with concern as Jimmy zipped up his suitcase.

"You have to leave already?"

"It’s urgent. I can’t let this fall apart," Jimmy replied, unable to hide his frustration. "But I don’t want to leave you here alone. Will you come with me?"

Sea was surprised, but nodded without hesitation.

"Of course. I’ll go with you."

The flight to Cambodia was quiet. Jimmy was focused on his phone, while Sea stared out the window, trying to calm his nerves. He had never left Thailand. Never imagined being part of Jimmy’s world. And now, he was diving straight into it.

But nothing could’ve prepared him for what awaited them.

At the entrance of Jimmy’s mansion, a woman was waiting. Not his ex-wife, but a house staff member, wearing a serious expression and standing beside a small child. He looked around five or six years old, with big eyes, dark hair, and a stuffed toy clutched in his arms.

"Mr. Jitaraphol… this arrived this morning," the woman said, handing him an envelope.

Jimmy opened it. Inside was a handwritten letter, the handwriting instantly recognizable—it was from his ex-wife.

"I can’t keep raising Chun on my own. He’s your son too, and it’s time you take responsibility. I hope you have the decency to do the right thing."

Jimmy stood frozen. The boy looked up at him, clearly unsure of what was happening. Sea, a few steps behind, watched silently.

"Is… is he your son?" Sea asked quietly, as if afraid of the answer.

Jimmy swallowed hard, still in shock.

"I didn’t know. She never told me."

Chun took a step forward, shyly, holding tightly to his toy.

"Are you Jimmy?"

Jimmy’s heart tightened. He crouched down to meet the boy’s eyes and nodded.

"Yes. And you’re Chun, right?"

The boy nodded as well. Sea slowly walked up beside them, uncertain of what to do. Jimmy looked at him with guilt in his eyes.

"I didn’t ask you to come for this. I’m sorry… I don’t even know what to think."

Sea crouched beside him, looking at Chun, who stared back curiously.

"You don’t have to apologize. This isn’t your fault. But now… we need to figure out what to do."

Jimmy took Sea’s hand, needing something—someone—to hold onto.

"I don’t want this to push you away."

"It won’t," Sea said firmly. "But it will change everything. We’ll have to learn to live with it."

Jimmy didn’t know it yet, but in that moment, Sea was making a much bigger decision than it seemed. One that would require maturity, sacrifice… and love.

And though the chaos was only just beginning, Sea knew one thing for certain:

He wasn’t going to let go.

Chapter Text

The sound of small footsteps echoed through the wide hallway. Chun, curious, wandered the house with his stuffed toy in his arms, touching everything along the way. Sea watched him from the kitchen doorway, feeling a mix of tenderness and nervousness.

Jimmy had been in his office since their arrival, dealing with urgent paperwork, calls, and emails. But Sea couldn’t stop thinking about how much had changed in just a few hours. They were in another country, in a huge house… and with a child who had suddenly become part of their lives.

"Would you like some juice, Chun?" he asked with a soft smile.

The boy looked at him, hesitated for a moment, then nodded shyly.

Sea poured a glass and handed it to him carefully, feeling the boy’s little fingers brush his as he took it.

"Thank you…" Chun whispered, sitting down in one of the kitchen chairs.

Sea watched him for a few more seconds. It was strange… he didn’t know anything about kids, but there was something in Chun that brought an unexpected peace. And also fear. Fear of not being good enough, fear of not knowing what to do, fear that Jimmy… might change.

As if summoned by his thoughts, Jimmy appeared in the doorway. He looked tired, but the moment he saw Sea and Chun in the kitchen, something in his face softened.

"How are you two doing?" he asked, his smile a bit awkward.

"We’re surviving," Sea joked, pouring another glass for him. "He hasn’t broken anything yet."

Chun giggled softly, and Jimmy walked over to gently ruffle his hair with a tenderness that surprised Sea.

"He’s very calm. I don’t know how they kept this from me for so long…"

Sea lowered his gaze, feeling something heavy settle in his chest.

"What are you going to do now?"

Jimmy sighed, leaning against the counter.

"I don’t know. But I can’t leave him. He’s my son. And I can’t ignore that anymore."

"And us?" Sea asked softly, almost a whisper.

Jimmy turned to him, eyes serious and intense.

"I’m not letting you go. But I need you to tell me if you… can handle this. Because I don’t want you to stay just out of obligation."

Sea looked at him, hurt.

"I’m not forcing myself. I’m here because I want to be. But I do need you to tell me where I fit in now."

Silence filled the space. Chun was still in his own world, playing with a spoon and his stuffed toy, unaware of the adult conversation.

Jimmy walked up to Sea and took his hands.

"Here. With me. In this. I don’t know how to do this, Sea. But I want us to figure it out together."

Sea hugged him. He didn’t know if he could be someone’s “other dad.” He didn’t know if he was ready for all of this. But he did know that he wanted to try.

That night, chaos didn’t let up. Chun refused to sleep alone, cried for his mom, and ended up nestled between Jimmy and Sea in bed, clinging to both. Jimmy comforted him with a tenderness that shattered any cold CEO image. And Sea, though awkward, also stroked his hair to calm him.

In the middle of that hectic night, there was a moment of silence.

Sea opened his eyes and looked at Jimmy in the darkness.

"I didn’t see this coming… but I don’t regret being here."

Jimmy turned toward him and kissed his forehead.

"Thank you for not running away."

"I won’t. But promise me we won’t stop being us."

"Promise."

And so, in a bed occupied by a scared little boy and two men who weren’t entirely sure what they were doing, something new was born. Something that wasn’t just passion or romance anymore, but family.

Imperfect.

Unexpected.

But family nonetheless.

Chapter Text

The morning sun gently streamed through the large windows of the house, lighting up the dining room where Sea was finishing his coffee. Jimmy had already locked himself in his office, immersed in paperwork and phone calls, just as expected. He had a whole world to keep in order.

Sea, however, still felt out of place among so many luxurious walls. None of this was familiar. But the small, sleepy voice that called from the hallway brought him back to reality.

"Sea... can I watch cartoons?"

Chun appeared dragging his stuffed toy, hair messy and eyes still half closed.

Sea smiled.

"You know what? It's a nice day. Want to go out with me? We can find a park or something fun nearby."

Chun looked at him, confused at first, then nodded, excited.

"Can I bring Teddy?"

"Of course, Teddy’s coming too."

---

Half an hour later, Sea was walking through a small green area not far from the house. He held Chun’s hand as the boy ran around, exploring every corner like a little adventurer. Sea watched him with a calm smile, surprised at how easy it was to enjoy such a simple moment.

"Sea?" Chun asked as he hung from his legs on the swing. "Are you like my daddy now?"

Sea paused. The question caught him off guard. He crouched down to Chun’s level and brushed his bangs away.

"I don’t know, Chun... but I want to be here for you. Does that sound good to you?"

Chun thought for a few seconds, then nodded.

"Yes. I like it when you're here. You make yummy toast with jam."

Sea laughed softly.

"Then I’ll keep making it. Deal."

They walked a bit more, bought ice cream from a street cart, and ended up sitting under a tree, sharing a moment as simple as it was beautiful. Chun rested his head on Sea’s shoulder, holding his stuffed animal, and closed his eyes.

Sea watched him in silence. He was surprised at how quickly he had bonded with the little one. And for the first time, he didn’t feel afraid—he felt peace.

---

When they returned home, Jimmy was in the foyer, phone in hand, brow furrowed. When he saw them, his expression shifted completely.

"Where were you?" he asked, approaching with concern.

"We went for a little walk. Just needed some air," Sea replied gently.

Chun ran up to Jimmy and hugged him around the waist.

"Sea bought me ice cream. And he pushed me on the swing. It was fun."

Jimmy stroked his head, relieved, and looked at Sea with a mix of gratitude and something deeper.

"Thank you. For everything."

Sea shrugged, kicking off his shoes.

"I didn’t save the world today, but I think I made someone happy."

Jimmy stepped closer and whispered in his ear:

"You made me happy too."

That night, while Chun slept soundly in his room, Sea and Jimmy shared a glass of wine on the terrace. Under the stars, without unnecessary words, Jimmy took Sea’s hand and kissed it softly.

Because sometimes, love doesn’t shout.

Sometimes, it just breathes gently… and stays.

Chapter Text

Days in Cambodia had quickly settled into a routine. Shared breakfasts, improvised games in the living room, afternoons of work for Jimmy, and outings with Chun for Sea. Though not everything was easy, there was an unexpected harmony in how their lives had intertwined.

That morning, Sea woke before Jimmy. The sun was just beginning to peek through the window, and the heat hadn’t yet arrived. He looked at Jimmy’s sleeping face—relaxed, free from the weight of the world—and smiled. He carefully got out of bed and left the room.

In the kitchen, he started making breakfast. Nothing fancy: toast, sliced fruit, hot coffee. Chun appeared barefoot, hugging Teddy.

"Sea? Where’s Dad?"

"Still sleeping. Are you hungry?"

Chun nodded, rubbing his eyes. Sea picked him up and sat him on the counter.

"Today we’re making something special. But it’s a surprise, okay?"

The boy nodded excitedly, and together they prepared a small breakfast tray to bring to bed. When they entered the room, Jimmy was already sitting up, hair tousled, wearing a sleepy smile.

"What’s this?"

"Good morning surprise," Sea said, placing the tray on his lap.

Chun climbed into the bed and nestled between them.

Jimmy looked at both of them, and in his eyes was something Sea didn’t often see: peace. As if, finally, he had found a place where he could stop running.

---

Later, after Jimmy left for the office, Sea took the opportunity to organize a cozy corner in the house just for Chun. He set up his toys, some soft blankets, and children’s books. He wanted the boy to feel like he had a home there—not just a house.

But when night fell, and Chun was already asleep, something in the air shifted.

Jimmy arrived late, more tense than usual. He removed his jacket, unbuttoned his shirt, and sank onto the sofa. Sea, who had been reading, watched him quietly.

"Everything okay?" he asked gently.

"No. The board is putting pressure on me. They don’t think I can handle the company while taking care of a ‘makeshift family.’"

Sea felt a sting.

"Is that what they think?"

"That’s what they said. And I can’t help but wonder... maybe they’re not wrong."

The silence between them was heavy. Sea closed his book and walked over.

"Do you think that too?"

Jimmy looked up, weary.

"I don’t know. I’m scared, Sea. Scared of not knowing how to balance this. Scared of losing everything."

Sea looked at him firmly.

"I don’t want you to choose between us and your job. But I also don’t want you to see us as an obstacle. We’re here… with you. Not against you."

Jimmy pulled him into a sudden hug, holding him tightly against his chest.

"You’re right. I’m sorry. I just… I don’t want to lose any of this."

"Then don’t," Sea whispered into his neck.

That night, there were no empty promises, no overwhelming passion. Just a long hug. Warm. Real. Because sometimes, love is shown by staying—even when it’s scary.

Chapter Text

Sea watched Chun from the doorway. The boy slept deeply, hugging his stuffed animal, breathing with the calm only children know. Jimmy stepped behind him and rested his chin on Sea's shoulder.

"Isn't it incredible?" he whispered.

Sea nodded without taking his eyes off Chun.

"Yeah. Sometimes I wonder if this is even real."

Jimmy smiled and kissed his neck.

"You made it real. I just let myself be caught."

They stood in silence for a few moments, until Sea sighed.

"I don’t know if I’m ready for this… to be a figure in a child’s life."

Jimmy turned him around to face him, gently stroking his cheek.

"Neither am I, not completely. But we don’t have to be perfect, Sea. We just… have to do it with love."

That night, they lay in bed wrapped around each other. Jimmy intertwined their fingers over his chest. There were no intense kisses, no grand words. Just the certainty that, somehow, they were starting a family.

---

The following days passed peacefully, though not without small challenges. Chun had begun asking more direct questions, like why Sea slept in Jimmy’s bed or if he now had “two dads.” Sea turned red every time, and Jimmy simply laughed, ruffling the boy’s hair.

One afternoon, while Jimmy went out for a business dinner, Sea and Chun decided to bake cookies. The kitchen ended up a mess, but the laughter was worth every grain of flour on the floor.

"These don’t look like the ones from the store," Chun said, staring at the burnt cookies.

"But we made them together. That makes them special," Sea replied, handing him one shaped like a (very crooked) heart.

Chun ate it anyway, smiling.

"Do you love my dad?"

Sea froze for a second. Then he nodded.

"Yes. Very much."

"Then it’s okay," Chun said with total innocence. "You can stay."

Sea laughed softly, feeling his chest tighten with emotion.

---

That night, when Jimmy returned, he found them asleep on the couch, Chun lying on Sea’s chest with cartoons playing on the TV.

He didn’t want to wake them. He simply covered them with a blanket and sat beside them, watching in silence.

For the first time in years, Jimmy Jitaraphol wasn’t afraid of the future.

He had something to protect.

He had someone to stay for.

Chapter Text

Sometimes, loving someone means stepping away for a moment… so you don’t destroy what you’re building.

Jimmy watched them in silence from the doorway. Sea and Chun were asleep on the couch, one curled up on top of the other, wrapped in a blanket that was already slipping down. It was the warmest image he had seen in years.

And yet… something inside him ached.

He knelt down, adjusted the blanket over Chun, and kissed Sea’s forehead gently. But Sea stirred.

“What time is it?” he asked, his voice raspy.

“Late. I’m back. Everything okay?”

Sea nodded, but he could tell something was off. Jimmy was tense. Distant.

“And you?” Sea asked. “Did the dinner go okay?”

Jimmy hesitated, then sat beside him.

“No. It was a mess. They blamed me for past decisions… for the company’s downturn. Sometimes it feels like I’m holding everything together with a string.”

Sea reached for his hand, trying to soothe him.

“You’re not alone in this.”

Jimmy swallowed hard.

“I know. But sometimes I’m scared you’ll regret this. That all of this…” —his eyes fell on Chun— “…is too much for you.”

Sea didn’t answer right away.

“You really think that?”

“I don’t know. It just crossed my mind.”

Sea slowly stood up, careful not to wake Chun.

“I’m going out for a walk. Just need some air.”

Jimmy didn’t stop him.

---

The streets of Phnom Penh were quiet at that hour. Sea walked aimlessly, his thoughts spiraling. Jimmy’s words echoed in his head like a haunting refrain.

You’ll regret this. This is too much.

Maybe it was. Who was he to take this on? A bartender, who’d suddenly become part of a CEO’s life—with a child, with a business under pressure.

He stopped at a public fountain and sat on the edge, staring into the rippling water. He didn’t recognize his own reflection.

“What am I doing…” he whispered.

---

He didn’t know how much time had passed before he sensed someone beside him.

“So this is how you run from me?”

Jimmy.

Soaked, breathless.

“How did you find me?”

“I searched everywhere. Like crazy. Because I don’t want to lose you over something stupid.”

Sea looked at him. The rain was starting to fall. His voice trembled.

“I don’t know if I’m enough, Jimmy.”

“You know what? I don’t know if I am either. But I don’t want that doubt to be what drives us apart. I’d rather screw up with you than get it right without you.”

Sea let out a small, sad laugh.

“You sound ridiculous when you talk like that.”

“And you?” Jimmy grinned. “Baking cookies with a five-year-old? We’re a mess… but we’re our mess.”

Sea didn’t hesitate. He threw himself into Jimmy’s arms, clinging to him like he might disappear.

And they kissed. In the rain, soaked to the bone, hearts wide open and raw.

---

When they returned home, Chun was still half-asleep on the couch.

“Why are you all wet?” he mumbled.

Sea ruffled his hair.

“We were out saving the world.”

“And you didn’t take me?”

“Your mission’s even more important,” Jimmy said, scooping him up. “Sleep. And dream sweet dreams.”

That night, they all shared the bed.

Jimmy, with Sea curled tightly against his back.

Chun, clutching his stuffed animal.

And the quiet certainty that even if nothing was easy—real love was always worth the fight.