Chapter 2
The Engineering Department is one of the busiest section aside from Sales and Accounting in their company. Right at this very moment the company has a huge bidding with one of the most prominent 7-Star hotel that's planning to expand its ventures to Phi Phi Island and in Samui Island.
Before the construction will begin, their team together with the Architect's team are working together to design structures that would win them the bid. And when the involved Marketing Team makes suggestions that's near impossible both the Engineer and Architect Team are restless which would mean dozens of revisions and implementation.
This is no small bidding after all. A 7 Star Hotel is not an easy star rating. Dubai, Korea, China, Italy and Fiji are reigning the top of 7 Star while Thailand mostly have 5 Stars Hotel.
Ae sighs and open his mobile phone, he smiles when he sees the home screen.
A picture of a beautiful slender ivory left hand with a gold ring on its ring finger. The gold ring is not as majestic as the other wedding rings - its simple. There's no diamonds, or any stones embedded. Just a simple engraving inside: Ae & Pete ~ Love by Chance Forever. Its just a simple gold ring but it brings so much emotion to him. For both of them have it.
AE: Sorry. Can't go home early :(
Ai Koon Chai: It's okay Krab Ae. Please eat properly.
AE: What time are you going home?
Ai Koon Chai: I'll be home around 7pm. I'll have early dinner with my mom.
AE: Our mom.
Ae knew that Pete is blushing right now when he didn't reply but the message was read. He grins, he doesn't know why Pete is still shy about it even after so many years ~ Pete is still Pete. His cute, sweet, gentle adorable Ai Koon Chai.
After several minutes.
Ai Koon Chai: Please take care on your way home. Drive safely. Don't speed drive. Please.
AE: You're adorable. Message me when you're home. Don't give me a heart attack.
Ai Koon Chai: Ae kraaab~
Ae smiles. That was Pete when he forgot to message that he was home and just hit the sofa and slept. When Pete opens his phone, he was so worried with 30 messages from Ae and 50 missed calls, and before he can even type or call, the front door of their apartment bangs opens and a frantic voice of Ae was yelling for him, when he answered Ae rush to his side and hugs him so tight. Afraid that something happen to him.
Pete kept on apologizing to him. He was so tired that he thought he sent a message when all he was able to muster was 'Hom…' without sending it. Pete is managing the Hotel of his mother and Grandmother and expansions of it are under way.
Ai Koon Chai: I promise I will send a message.
AE: Okay… and Pete.
Ai Koon Chai: Yes krab?
AE: Attach a photo of you naked.
Ai Koon Chai: AE! GET BACK TO WORK!
Ae chuckles. The first time he asked for that particular message Pete didn't reply for about half an hour and when he called Pete told him that he dropped the phone and now buying a new one. Pete told him he was a naughty boy.
Ae cant help it.
Teasing Pete has become his addiction nowadays. He loves seeing those blushes once again, the way Pete will blush, bite his lips, move his head downwards… all those simple gestures drives him mad. It was a major turn on college and now. He loves Pete's face when its beet red. And there's that animalistic satisfaction he always get inside of him knowing that he was the one who made Pete that way.
When they reunite after 3 years of separation he was so afraid that Pete will again vanished before his eyes. If Pete will tell him to break up - this time - he cannot make it. He cannot live - oh he will exist - but not live.
Pete has become an integral part of his life. Without him everything else is dull. Not even his cute sweet niece and little nephew can bring him back from the blackhole.
Their reunion was met with joyful and warmth love from all their friends and family.
They had a small reunion at Pete's home. N'Yim was so happy to have her Ar Pete back and told Pete to never go away again cause her Ar Ae will cry again.
Even Tin was happy to see his friend and hugged him right there and then in front of everyone that made Ae growled like a wounded beast and snatch Pete away and Can pouts and eat a whole lot more than his usual while ignoring Tin's smiles and touches.
Tin was just happy to see his only friend back. 'Only friend' has become a thing of the past, because being with Can changed that. Tin become part of Cantaloupe's world and Can's group of friends. Techno, Type, Tharn, Good, Champ, Pond, Ping, Chaaim, Bow and even P'Money is within Tin's circle of friends. The guys tend to ignore his usual snide remarks and Pond even shouted: 'You're such a tsundere character you know!'
Pond explained what it means, everyone burst out laughing and much to Tin's annoyance Can has the best and loud laughter. Tin even in his arrogant mode cannot escape Pond's nosiness and Bow's advances. Bow keeps on saying she's available if he decided to drop Can while Techno and Type even Good keeps on asking Tin if he was a masochist - being punched by Can and then suddenly falling in love with the Ai Albino Monkey. Tin either answered or ignored them. Though Tin kept a possessive wall around his Cantaloupe especially when the later gets drunk. There's no bedroom secret when Can is drunk, much to Lay's delight.
Lay has the time of her life while taking pictures here and there and she keeps on ogling Ae and Pete's sweetness and was very much pissed at Pond whenever the later will shout: 'DWARF! We're here too!' or 'Ai Shorty! Let the air come in between you!' For her P'Pond keeps on bothering the atmosphere.
Putcharapon looks at Ae's mother. Both women have a sweet smile on their faces. Finally… Ae and Pete are together. They can see their sons smile with so much love and peace. There's no wariness and fear.
Putcharapon witness how Ae loves her son Pete so much. In all those years, Ae never forgets to spend time with her on her birthday and bought her bouquet of roses which Pete usually does. Ae will message her. Its as if she has another son whose worried and cares for her. And that day and time…
Ae arrived that particular day just to visit her, Putch heart aches when she saw Ae looks at Pete's photo at the living room. His eyes have the same intensity as before. Love, longing, pain and yes, teary eyed.
They were having lunch when she told him to pick someone at the airport.
Ae inhaled sharply and she smiles, right there Ae burst into tears and in broken voice, 'He's come back. He's coming back… He's coming back… for me.'
Putcharapon closes her eyes and her heart swell with love with the both of them. Ae and Pete.
Ae and Pete moved in together when Putcharapon bought them an apartment.
Ae doesn't want to accept it because he wanted to be the one to provide the home for Pete but Putcharapon told Ae, 'Am I not your mother too? I want both of you to settle in your own comfort zone. I hate it that you travel back and forth to two different apartments when both of you can just live in one. And Ae… I want you to always care for Pete. He might vanished again you know.'Putcharapon added that as a teasing note but the woman knew she won that battle when she saw Ae's shocked face turned determined and frown at the notion of Pete vanishing again.
The apartment is luxurious, it consist of two bedroom - one master bedroom with balcony that's big enough to place a king size bed and a soft sofa. One study room that fits two mahogany home office table, shelves filled with Ae and Pete's books and materials. A spacious living room, dining room and a modern kitchen. He doesn't know how rich people's mind works but when he saw Pete like it - he like it. Pete's comfort and feeling at home is his top priority.
When he got the news that he is promoted to Senior Department Head he immediately bought Pete a wedding ring - yes a wedding ring. Both of them already have their engagement ring, this time Ae's promises are absolute. No second chance. No doubts. No faltering.
He will not let anything come in between them. Pete will never have to feel alone again, both of them will never feel the despair of separation and the fear of loss. For Ae, Pete is his everything. Pete deserves only the best in the world because Pete is the most kindest person he had ever met. Despite all the bad things that happen to him, he remains pure, kind, forgiving and has the gentlest of heart. Its as if an angel falls in heaven and he was the lucky man who were able to catch that angel.
Pete is his angel.
Pete may repeatedly say that Ae is his hero and that it was Ae who helped him to be brave and to say things in his heart, but for Ae - Pete is his saviour. Pete shows him a side that he never knew existed inside of him.
Pete shows him that even in the baddest of times - there's always hope and love. That even when dirt are thrown out you - you need to let go and be a better person than them. Pete shows him that despite his father's wrongdoing to his mother and to his life - he forgives and moves on. There's no mean bone in Pete's body.
Intouch has his own angel… and his name is Pitchaya.
After several months of planning both by their mothers, they finally got married. Ae wanted to get married immediately but his own mother forbids it, saying that him and Pete deserves only the best wedding. Pete's mom agrees and they have handled the event themselves. Its a simple wedding held in the newly built hotel by the Pitchayaworachote.
When he was introduced to Pete's grandmother for the very first time - he thought that disdain and reject will be reflected on her eyes, but Pete's grandmother open her arms and hugs Ae tight and whispered, 'Thank you so much for loving and protecting my Pitchaya.'
Ae found out that Pete was the one who told his grandmother about them and told her everything right from the start, who was the one who saved him, the one who made him brave and strong, how Pete falls in love, how Pete gain new friends and how Pete become more stronger. 'Grandma, Pete is save by Ae. Pete loves Ae.'
'Pitchaya… you know I love you. You have the most gentlest soul in this world. Whatever will make my Pitchaya smiles and happy, then Grandmother is happy.'
They were married at the beach with blessings from Buddhist Monks.
Tin with Can, Lemon who insist that she wanted to watch Ae and Pete's wedding, Type with Tharn, Techno, Good, Champ, Pond and Chaaim, Ping, Bow, P'Money, Sun and Ryu, Dear and Porch, Alvin is there to see his beloved brother get married, Champoo is also present and was happy to see Ae finally smiles again and Ae's entire family.
The wedding was simple yet beautiful and magical according to Lay and Yim. White roses, lilies, calla lilies, white orchids, white tulips, white carnation, white Hydrangea are everywhere - everything is white while the ribbons are soft pale blue.
The soft breeze of the sea wove a magical spellbound in the ceremony. The sweet sound of the waves became their music… The sun in the afternoon was not glaring, rather it was soft and gentle, as if giving her blessings to the two people madly in love who had been test by time to prove each other's worth.
Pete is wearing a very simple yet elegant white suit, it was very simple yet heavenly. Intricate gold embroidery that makes the whole set a perfection. On his head, a beautiful and simple flower crown with tiny ivory flower scatter about on the twisting vines. Chaaim, Bow and Nut designs the crown for Pete. They've added silk baby's breath flower to give it a more natural look and feel. Pete looks so beautiful like an angel out of a canvas. Nut and the others told the stylist to just leave Pete's face alone, for it will blush naturally when Pete sees Ae.
Pete almost fainted when he saw Ae. Ae looks incredibly handsome like a King with his traditional wedding suit; Ae was wearing a white tunic suit with a blue belt with golden traditional Thai patterns, and a Thai traditional trouser "Jong Kra Ben".
Pete looks like an angel. His beauty doubles because of the love that glows in his eyes. His cheeks naturally flush pink to red whenever Ae will give him that smirk. All their friends and even Sun and Pond admits that Ae is one lucky bastard that an angel falls in love with him. Pete exudes serenity and love. There's so much love in his eyes while looking at Ae.
Ae on the other hand looks dashingly handsome like a King who had finished conquering the land and its precious jewel, and again Sun, Pond with Dear agrees that they have never seen their friend like this before. His face is not the usual harsh frown here and there look, Ae's face is gentle while looking at Pete's. And if before Ae is called a Dwarf by Pond now its impossible to call the tall man shorty. Ae towers Pete and Pond knew his friend likes it.
The wedding is sacred. Their marriage is not ordinary, but it is accepted. The one who performed their ceremony told beforehand: "Marriage is that ceremony that formally expresses, in front of family and friends, that unique leap into vulnerability and trust called adult love. Two people put their faith not in a God, but in intimacy, physical and emotional. After marriage, they strive to not think of themselves, nor of their partner, but only of "us". Their spiritual journey advances with the discovery of meaning in this closest of relationships, not in the individual. That is why it begs for a religious component, like a flower begs for water. Religion does not own the institution of marriage and has no right to govern it. As a Buddhist leader, I would very much like to perform the Buddhist marriage ceremony for gays and lesbians. Why should Buddhists be denied this opportunity? Let other religions make the rules for their own members, but may they not make the rules for the Buddhists."
For who would stop the marriage of two souls in love?
They don't need the whole world to know - the only one that matters are those important to them.
N'Yim's laughter echoed throughout the occasion and her words that was heard by all made Pete blushed a thousand shades of red.
'Ar Pete, you're not going anywhere anymore right? Ar Ae told me that from now on Ar Pete belongs to Ar Ae.'
Pete nodded with a sweet smile, but then N'Yim added, 'Ar Ae told me that your cheeks is his most favorite than my cheek and that his most treasured is Ar Pete's lips. So don't go anymore na…'
A jeer and noise from Pond can be heard across the room, 'OI! Shorty! What are you teaching your niece?!'
'Awwww Ai Ae so sweet!' Dear said doubling the teasing.
'My God Ae! You're sweet? How come you always kick me and Pond's ass?!' Sun asked with a hurt face.
And it seems that even his nephew Perth who so resembles him is so attached to Pete.
'Perth, no hugging!' Ae said which to his chagrin heard by Can and the second loudmouth in his usual loud voice, 'Eh? Ai Ae? You're jealous of your own nephew? Then what will happen to your son or daughter?'
Champ and Type spew the drinks they were drinking and shouted at the same time, 'AI ALBINO MONKEY! Pete cannot give birth?!'
'He cant?! HE CAN! When were in college I heard Ai Ae in the locker room said to Ai Pete he will make Pete pre-mmhhhggghhhh!' Can was not able to continue the words he was about to say when Ae moves fast and covers his mouth. Ae was blushing while Pond and the others are now shouting and teasing him.
'That's my boy!' Pond was so proud, after all he was the first captain of their ship.
'Way to go Ae! You horndog!' Sun, Dear and the others join, teasing their friend who had a non-existent sex life before he met Pete.
Pete was scarlet red while trying to hide his face. He knew about that matter. Their second locker room affair when Ae was jealous not of Tin but of someone from the Engineering who gave him a love letter.
'OI AE! What the hell have you been doing to Pete in the locker room? Why didn't I know about this?' Techno who was always have no bloody clue and no idea what's going on behind lock doors asked, and this time the laughter and teasing was from the football team.
Champ, Type and even Good shook their head at how helpless Techno can be.
Tin walks towards Ae and Can, 'May I have my Cantaloupe back?'
Ae nodded and handed Can but then Can, 'Ai Ae! You betrayal friend! Why did you shut my mouth! I'm just saying the truth! I saw you push Pete at the locker room and before I close the door I heard you say you will make Pete preg-mmmggghhhhh!' This time it was Tin who puts his hand on Can's mouth.
The jeering and laughter can be heard, Ae who was red as a tomato grins helplessly and hugs Pete who was hiding his face on Ae's neck not wanting to look into his mother's face or grandmother.
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He was reviewing the draft the Lead Architect sent him when his phone vibrates one after the other indicating several text messages.
He grits his teeth when he saw the message was from their group chat Pond created.
GROUP CHAT: The Engineering Idols.
Most Handsome Man in the Engineering Department: DWARF! Its lunchtime now! Get your shorty ass here!
Ae greeted his teeth. Even when he is much taller now than Pete - this asshole never gives up that nickname.
.Borny: Ai Ae… I'm hungry now! Pond already ordered for you.
Bow is the same as ever. Food is life.
A BOTTOM but doesn't want to admit it: Ai Ae! If you don't get here - Pond will slander you again!
Ping is the only sane person in the group.
Ae types his message with gritted teeth. He really want to kill Pond with the nicknames he gives them. He tried to change his but Pond will just edit it again and again and again.
Whip to his Wife: I'll be there in 5. Ai Ping - kill A-Hole Pond. I allow you.
A BOTTOM but doesn't want to admit it: Roger that! (with an emoji of salute)
Ae stood and went outside his room. It really is lunch time now - the whole department is empty and lunchtime is the only breather they have after all.
He doesn't know it if its just his bad luck or luck that his friends after going into different company is now working in the same company as him.
Ping and Pond are assigned to another Engineering Division that deals with Power Plant Engineering while he is with the Building Services Engineering.
Bow is within the Software Engineering and most of the times she's the one they call when it comes to software applications they would need and how the system may work. Bow is like their lifeline or the connecting dots. They meet time to time whereas Ping and Pond whenever they have lunch.
Their company is very strict yet humane. They give their employees an hour and half for their lunch as they know that their work is demanding and most often than not employees stayed over time or bring their work at home to finish.
He was walking towards the company cafeteria when he heard a woman in a loud voice.
'KHUN POND! PLEASE TELL ME IS KHUN AE SINGLE?!'
Ae stops on his tracks.
The noise in the cafeteria stops and they all look at the beautiful woman. Her name is Daw like her name she's bright and a very beautiful woman. Many men eyed her and she's the so called Star of the Sales Department.
'Ae?'
'Yes! Please! I know he wears a ring but that doesn't make any sense! He has been working here for 4 years now and not once did I see his wife! And if there's an event here he doesn't bring her saying always says that his wife is busy or out of town! Tell me! Is he just pretending to have a wife so no one will bother him?! I really really want to ask him but I am scared and I don't want to be rejected but I just want to know cause I like him! And if he doesn't have a wife please tell me how can he and me be together! I will do anything to have him!'
Pond, Ping and Bow looks at each other. Wow. This woman can match Ai Can with her speed talk.
Bow raised her eyebrows and she finally understood why the woman shouted and asked them that here in a room full of people from different departments.
Declaration of War.
Daw said it first so that every single woman present would know that she has first dibs to Ae.
Ae might not know it but every woman in all the departments wants him. It's just that Ae change so much. From being a dwarf like Pond calls him - the separation of Ae and Pete made Ae into a sports maniac - he push himself to exhaustion thus their school won the University Championship. Ae is taller now. Taller than Pete, his skin not much darker than before must be because he doesn't run in the sun now and his harsh face becomes much gentler - because living with Pete must be heaven for this man.
And let's include that Ae is 100% a gentleman. He will help those in need and he wouldn't give a damn about repayment. He doesn't accept gifts even a thank you gifts from anyone. He is willing to extend his help from different department if needed. If a woman trip Ae will be the first one to catch her and even before that woman can say her thanks - Ae will just walk away without asking for anything. Many have experience just how gentleman and a gallant knight Ae was.
Bow notice Ae at the entry way and before she can tell Pond that Ae is there at his back Pond the nosy idiot runs his mouth.
'Ehhh… Its true krab. Ae wouldn't lie about his wife. He is head over heels in love.'
'But-but…'
'Listen krab,' Pond said in his most teasing tone which makes Ping chuckles and Bow rolled her eyes. They knew what was coming. 'Ai Ae is an idiot for his wife. He cannot live without them. You see, his wife is so damn beautiful. They have the smoothest cheek - I know that from Ae who keeps on mentioning it to our faces - the most beautiful face ever. And has the kindest heart.'
'I AM BEAUTIFUL! I AM KIND!'
'Yes krab… You are beautiful - but if you ask that Shorty, that idiot will only answer - his wife is more beautiful. And he will never leave his wife. As a matter of fact, if his wife so much texted him right here right now with the word: "I need you" he will drop everything even if it will cost him his promotion or to be the president - to be with his wife.'
'BUT I DON'T SEE HER FACE! Khun Ae doesn't have a facebook or even an IG account! Is he a caveman?!' Daw was frustrated. She tried to stalk Ae for many months now but there's nothing to stalk. It's like Ae is living the 20th century where mobile only exist to call and text.
Snickers and giggles can be heard at the room and Ae massage his temple to an upcoming headache. Pond laugh out loud while Ping and Bow snickers.
Its true.
Ae does have an iOS phone but he doesn't have a facebook. The old facebook he has he chose to deactivate because some photos of him and Champoo are there and other women he was friends with. He doesn't want Pete to feel any insecurities or that he is still in contact with them. Its not that he is anti-social, he gave them his number - if they want to call or send him a message they can. But other than that, he would never allow. The only reason that he and Champoo were closed was because Pete insisted on it. He never had any relationship nor desire to anyone - just Pete. He never take off his ring even when Pete was insisting that he take Champoo as his girlfriend.
'Yes… Ai Shorty has no use of social media cause he is happy with his wife.'
'Khun Pond! Please help me! I really want to be Khun Ae's girlfriend! And I don't believe he has a wife if I don't see it!'
This time before Pond can say anything, Ae hit his head. Daw gasped and was red face but she likes this. She likes to be the center of attention. Now that Ae is cornered - Ae will give in.
'I'm sorry. That is not possible. Pond is right about everything, the first time I agreed with him. I am married.' Ae was never the one to embarrass anyone let alone a girl, but there's no way in fucking hell that he would be put into a spot just because they don't believe his marriage.
'SHOW ME HER FACE!'
This time it was Bow who answered, 'Can you please stop that. I don't think its any of your business what Ae's wife looks like for any of that matter. He has a right for his personal privacy. Can we just eat and move on? I'm so hungry and our food is getting cold.'
The others in the room nodded and shrug their shoulders.
All in all they have a high respect to Ae. Ae is not being mysterious or an enigma. He is straight forward and yes a true gentleman and he is honest. Others were surprised that he can laugh when surrounded by his friends.
Daw turn around and headed out of the room.
'Ne! Did you record this?' Pond asked Ping.
'What would you do with the video?' Bow asked while eating, she did in fact record it.
'Send it to the wife! Bwanyaahahahah!' Pond laughs and for that earned him a kick under the table from Ae.
They eat their lunch and from time to time Ae have to stop himself from killing Pond while Ping and Bow laughs.
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Ae is on the phone sending message to Pete.
AE: We've arrived now. God I'm so tired.
Ai Koon Chai: Are you okay? Were you able to sleep at the bus ride?
AE: I thought I have escaped Pond. Ai Chaaim is right. I think he is a half quarter ghost. Why do I have to be his room mates and now his bus mate?
Ai Koon Chai: Hahaha! But Ai Ping and Ai Bow is there right?
AE: Those two are not of help!
Ai Koon Chai: Awww. What are you going to do today?
AE: Its 12 now. I dont even have the energy to eat. We have a lunch meeting at 2 and then leisure. Tomorrow the other departments will join and in the afternoon we'll have lunch meeting.
They have landed an exclusive contract to the 7-Star Hotel and this is the company's thank you gift to its workers who works relentlessly to the point half of them now have pillows and covers at their seats for a power nap. Pond even brought his miniature models of Hatsune Miku in swimsuit to inspire him.
A 3 days trip to Phi Phi Island and staying at Zeavola Resort.
Ai Koon Chai: Hmmm… Then take time to rest Krab Ae. You haven't been sleeping for months now. Please rest your body.
AE: I just want to be with you Ai Koon Chai.
Ai Koon Chai: Ae kraaab~
AE: I miss you.
Ai Koon Chai: I miss you too Ae. I'm sorry that I was not at home for a few weeks now. The event at the hotel keeps me busy especially when the Marketing Team tripled book an event :( And grandmother and mom wanted to shift my position.
Ae chuckles, no matter how many years its been, Pete will always be Pete. Even in his text messages. Ai Koon Chai.
AE: It's okay Pete. Don't say sorry na. I just really really miss you. How many days I haven't touched you?
Ai Koon Chai: Ae kraaab~
AE: Tell me how many days?
Ai Koon Chai: 17 days krab…
AE: 17 bloody fucking days!
Ai Koon Chai: Ae krab. I'm sorry.
AE: Don't say you're sorry. I am busy too. Its just that I miss you. I really want to see you.
Ai Koon Chai: I want to see you too… But Ae krab, why aren't you answering my call and just sending me messages.
AE: Do you want me to die?
Ai Koon Chai: Krab?
AE: Koon Chai, just hearing your voice will give me a perfect boner. Not being able to touch you will definitely kill me.
Ai Koon Chai: AE!
AE: What?
Ae chuckles while typing. He knew damn well that Pete is blushing in a perfect shades of red. He wished he can see it. Those adorable soft cheeks blushing. The way Pete will bite his lower lips, the way his eyes will quiver and look at him with bashful lust.
God knows how much he loves Pete. If he did save the country or the world from his previous life and this is his reward - then he will save the world again and again if he can have Pete in his next life.
AE: I miss your touch. I miss your scent. I miss your kiss.
Ai Koon Chai: Ae… I miss you too.
AE: I really want to fuck you right now.
Ai Koon Chai: AE!
Ae cant help it. Its been so long… and he is not the same as in college that his right hand can do the trick. He have tasted Pete in all kinds of way - he wanted to come in Pete's hole. He'd rather suffer the pain and wait than doing it by himself. The years they were apart, he felt nothing. There's no urge or any sexual frustration - the one that lingers the most was Pete's presence.
AE: I'll be back on Sat. Will you be home?
Ai Koon Chai: I'll be home around noon that day.
AE: Then we will see each other.
Ai Koon Chai: Yes.
AE: Pete… you won't have to work on Sunday right?
Ai Koon Chai: Uhm… no. I think by Friday we have things sorted out.
AE: Good.
Ai Koon Chai: Ae Krab?
AE: Because I'm going to fuck you the whole day and will not let you out of my sight.
Ai Koon Chai: AE!
AE: I love you. Go back to work now. Eat properly Koon Chai.
Ai Koon Chai: I love you too Ae… See you soon.
Ae end the conversation. Ae closes his eyes and just imaging Pete have him hot and bothered, he would love to chat with Pete more but he knew the later needs to concentrate with his work… and truthfully chatting with Pete already is giving him a boner.
He heads to the bathroom to shower and heard the front door bang and Pond pounding the bathroom door, 'OI! DWARF! The hell - are you taking a bath? There's a beach outside you moron! Let's go and have that blasted meeting so I can go swimming!'
'A-hole Pond! I have to shower! You and Bow splatter the bloody soy sauce on my shirt!'
Pond grimaced remembering him and Bow fighting over the last soy sauce.
'K! K! K! We'll wait for you at the lobby!'
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The first day at the resort was spent mostly him sleeping, after the lunch meeting. Pond keeps on insisting that he goes with them at the beach, but he was really tired and want to catch some sleep. He hadn't been sleeping so much because of the bidding war for the hotel project and he needs to get some rest, Saturday is just a few days away and he doesn't want to spend the whole Saturday sleeping, he has more precious things to do that day.
At dinner, Pond and his loudmouth never stops and he even teases Ae that Daw was with the first batch and she keeps on looking for him. Good thing he stays at the room.
Bow was laughing and so was Ping. Those two are no help either.
'Ai Shorty! Why cant you just show Pete so the poor girl will stop hovering you!'
Ping and Bow smacks Pond's head. 'That hurts!'
'Idiot! Ae would have done it long time ago, if it weren't for Pete.'
'Huh?'
'You know how shy he is and still is right?'
'Ae?'
Ae looks at his friend, 'If others would ask me to show my "wife's" picture, I would surely show them Pete. I never intended to hide it. But no one asked me. They just asked me if I'm married. I said yes.'
'How about Pete?'
'Ai-Hole. Have you forgotten where we married?'
'Uhm… here actually,' Pond answered to which Ping and Bow rolled their eyes.
'Correct. The family owned hotel - this hotel to be precise. The staff and the others knew about our marriage. And as the Young Master he isn't obliged to explain anything. If they ask, he will answer.'
Ping frowning, 'Ae, is Pete not coming here? This is their hotel. Did you tell him?'
'I gave him our itinerary. But he didn't mention it, meaning, he wont be coming here. He is busy at the other hotel in the city.'
Bow pouts, 'Awww, I thought he would be here. It would be fun, we can extend the days instead of leaving Friday night.'
'That's why the other staff was greeting you with wai every damn time!' Pond said while he claps his hand as if the realization just dawned on him.
Ae shrugged. The manager of the hotel knew him, he was actually there at their wedding. The others who knew him bows at him and greets him.
Pete must have seen it but forgot about it, he had been busy like he said and he didn't want to bother him. Pete have become thinner and even though he keeps reminding him to eat and never skip breakfast or lunch, he was not there to see it.
'But Ae, what are you going to do with Daw? She keeps on asking about your marriage.'
'What should I do about it? I already told her I'm married. If she questions it then its her problem. I have nothing to prove, it isn't anyone's business.'
Pond and the others looks at each other, Ae as ever is straight forward and never think of him as someone 'catching' to the eyes of the ladies. There are several girls from the IT, Accounting, Sales and Marketing who is eyeing him but because he says he's married, no one dares to approach him. Daw is the first woman who ever have the guts to declare it.
And trust Ae to never mind the declaration as this doesn't concern him nor Pete. The only time Ae will fuss over or be concern is if its about Pete.
Ping cleared his throat, 'Ae… this is just a what if scenario. What if Daw demanded a picture and told you she will stop.'
'Then I should have shown our wedding photo to her the first time.'
'Ahhh.'
'You're okay with it?'
'What?'
'Coming out?'
'Of course. What's the problem? The company does not have any discrimination - I checked that on the manual - '
'You what?!' Pond asked, incredulous that Ae checked it.
'Yes. I'm not going to work in a company that has discrimination about same sex marriages. All of us may refer to Pete as my wife, but the plain truth is we are husbands' two men - we are of the same sex.'
'So you're okay with people knowing?'
'Of course. We are legally married. We love each other. I have work and I'm proud to say I am worth the position they place me. If they have a problem with it, then let them talk to me. I will never be ashamed of my marriage to Pete. I wont let anyone ridicule the sacred vows me made.'
Bow was teary eyed, Ping is smiling while Pond, 'Ai Shorty! Father is so proud of you!'
'Who the fuck is your son A-Hole!'
'Awwww Ae… have you told Ai Pete that?' Bow asked while wiping her tears with tissue.
'Yes.'
'So proud of you! This handsome half-Italian man is so proud to be your best friend,' Pond said while tapping his chest with his right hand.
Ae rolled his eyes. There's nothing to be emotional about it. Why would he be ashamed of their marriage. Truth be told, he wanted to shout to the world that he is married to Pete. But his priority is not his ego nor his pride - his priority is Pete's comfort.
Pete may be open now to his family and friends, but Pete still have traumatic experience of being exposed and judged. Ae knew that Pete's main concern was him - because he might be mock at his work - but he assures Pete that it would never happen. He doesn't give a fuck about what people tells him, hell, they can call him names but would it kill him? No. He believes in himself and that loving Pete and marrying him is one of the best decision in his life and will never regret it.
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It is the second day and the Sales, Marketing and Accounting Department arrives and join the Engineering Department in the big spacious dinner hall of the hotel. This hall serve mostly as a wedding reception and it can host 200 to 300 people.
'Dwarf! Over here!' Pond shouted and Ae came over to seat down next to Ping, Bow, Pond and three others from the Engineering, the three gave wai to Ae as he is their superior, Ae return it and turn to the others.
Whoever will hear Pond will wander by the hell has he been calling a tall man Dwarf or Ai Shorty - Pond who is as nosy as ever will always show them their pictures in college.
Ae always wonder - will it be a crime to kick this half quarter Italian back to his country?
'Why should we have a meeting? Yesterday wasn't enough? Can't they just serve the food and let's enjoy?' Pond asked while tapping his fingers and looking around, smiling here and there to beautiful women who caught his eyes. He can hear at the background Bow saying: 'Chaaim will break up with you.' which he will answer with a smile, 'No she wouldn't. She's madly in love with me.' But still keeps on smiling at the beauties at the Sales Department.
Daw is there looking intently at Ae. She tried to be alone with Ae, she woke up and stretching when she saw Ae jogging at the beach, she hurriedly dress up and tried to join him, but Ae was fast. Really fast. According to Khun Pond, Ae was a football player and the ace of their university.
She tried again at breakfast but Ae is surrounded by the girl from IT and Khun Ping and Khun Pond. She wanted to join them but she feels she will be out of place.
'Its to thank us and for other departments to show their participation blah blah bah,' Ping explained while playing with his phone.
Bow on the other hand has a concern, 'Will they serve a delicious meal like last night? I think I want to live here! The food is exquisite!'
'Ai Bow! Watch your food intake! You might explode!' Pond laughs out loud.
'I do exercise! I'm still practicing my Taekwondo - want me to demonstrate it to you?'
Pond shook his head while raising his hands.
'You should have come with us Ae! Scuba diving here is paradise!' Bow said excitedly and Ae nodded and grins while looking at Bow and Ping's obvious tan.
'Pond. You are even more darker than Ae from his college days! Hahaha' Ping said while laughing and taking photos of Pond.
'Bastard! My skin is not as dark as this blackhole who suck the whole sun! I am tan! Tan! Italian TAN!'
Bow and Ping laugh while Ae just kicked Pond on the side.
Ae was busy messaging Pete, to remind his Koon Chai to eat lunch and not sandwich but a decent full meal. Ae grins when the only reply of Pete is a kiss emoji. He didn't message again, Pete giving him an emoji and not a text means he is currently busy or in a meeting. Poor Koon Chai.
Everyone quiets down when the representative of their president came forward and give his speech.
The talk was long and when it comes to the Marketing Team to present their involvement with the project, the projector died down.
'Excuse me… can you ask someone for help?' the secretary asked the waiter for help when it seems even their IT personnel doesn't know what happen, several cables are already tried but nothing is working. The waiter nodded and after a few minutes someone entered the room.
'Oh my God! Is he - Oh my God!'
'SO HANDSOME!'
'Have you ever seen - a man so beautiful?!'
'What the - is he even real?'
The whole room went into a buzz of whispers here and there.
A tall handsome man who seems like he walks out of a magazine cover approaches the stage. There's a beautiful smile on his face, so beautiful that all of them can only stare and gape. Skin as white as ivory, brown hair that seems so soft and silk crown his head, red lips with a soft smile, and eyes that looks so exquisite and divine.
If angels are real - then they are lucky that this angel grace them with his presence.
The man went to the stage and look into the problem. At the stage for all to see, they stared at him. Nobody can help themselves but stare at the beautiful man.
The man was tall around 181cm. Taller than average Thai men. He has the most beautiful white skin that's exposed a little as his pristine white long sleeves had its two buttons open, showing a sexy, exquisite neck and collarbone, tucked in a tight black pants that shows the man's sexy hips and long legs. The men ogled at those hips and legs for they have never seen a man with pants that can hug their hips in a sexy way. The women are either envious or in awe at how much they wanted to have that slim waist. He has a gentle smile on his face while listening to the men explaining the problem. His light brown hair looks so soft and his eyelashes are thick and long.
'OI AE! You - Why didn't you tell us?!'
Ae can only stare. Ae raised his hand and smack Pond's head.
'That hurts you Ai Bastard!'
'So its not a dream. I thought I was hallucinating.'
'Why is he here?' Bow and Ping wanted to know, teasing tone in their voice while watching Ae's face.
But Ae don't have answer and can only stare at the man who has been in his dreams for so many a nights now.
Pete was busy with understanding the problem that he didn't realize he is being stared at. He took out his phone and calls the IT department to fix the system, he told them that it must be because they have a new software system upgraded just a while ago thus the problem occurred, all systems are connected to one source in their hotel. He bows as an apology. The men are flustered seeing a beautiful piece of a man bows and smiles at them.
Pete turns around to check the computer at the back when a cable tangled on his feet and fell down face first. Many gasped and shouted but all of them were surprise from a shout of worry from the man they never expected to show so much emotion.
'AI PETE!'
Ae shouted and with a speed of light runs and jumps over the stage and holds a fallen Pete. With gentle hands he cradled Pete's body and carefully checks the later's state.
'Are you okay?'
'A-Ae?'
'Yes. Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?' Ae holds Pete's cheek and caress it. Checking if Pete's face was hurt during the face fall, there was a reddening on his left cheek that made Ae inhaled sharply.
'Ae...'
'Yes. Where does it hurt? Wait okay,' Ae moves a little to untangle the cables from Pete's foot and just throw it with such vehemence as if the cables are the spawn of evil.
'Ae… why are here?' Pete asked and Ae saw Pete has dark smudges under his eyes. He frowns seeing that.
'Never mind. Are you hurt?'
'No… I think…' Pete said and Ae helped him to get up, Ae's left hand on his waist while the other hand on Pete's arm, gently and carefully pulling Pete up.
'Ah!' Pete winced.
'You're hurt!'
'No. I'm okay. I - just that my ankle hurts a little,' hearing that Ae's lips thinned and his brows furrow in silent anger.
Without any warning Ae pick Pete up and carried him princess style off the stage.
'AE!'
'Not now Koon Chai.' Ae said with a harsh look on his face that made Pete shut up. Everyone who sees that face will back down. Pond, Ping and Bow knew that face, and arguing with Ae looking like that is never good. The others who knew nothing of the couple have never seen Ae in his years working in the company made that face.
Ae carried Pete when the hotel manager runs to them, 'Master Ae! How's Young Master Pete?'
Ae stops, 'He sprained his ankle. Can you bring a medicine kit? And food, lots of them.'
'Yes Master Ae. Should I bring it to your room at the Garden Suite?' The manager asked Ae and when he nodded, turns around and Ae was about to pass their table when Pond called out.
'OI AE! Where are you taking your wife?' Pond asked deliberately saying the word wife.
'Is Ai Pete okay?' Ping and Bow asked.
Ae looks at them and answered, 'At our room. He sprained his ankle. Ping can you bring my things later? Pond tell him where.'
Ping nodded with worried frown from his face.
Bow counted on her fingers, 3… 2… 1… and when Ae and Pete were out of the room, their table was bombarded with questions, mostly by the girls in the different departments.
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TBC
Author's Note:
Sorry for the long chapter. This is still the continuation of The PRINCESS of the TWO HOUSEHOLD, only this time, its POV is Ae's.
There are so many details, cause I believe I have to explain things and that I want it to be realistic. :)
This is a work of fiction:
Any resemblance to any real people – names, characters and incidents are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously (living, dead, or stolen by fairies), or to any real animals, gods, witches, countries, and events (magical or otherwise) is just blind luck, or so I hope.
Again, this is FICTION. Not intended to create a war or any conflict.
Its hard writing in real life or the 'real world' when you are used to writing fantasy world. Hahahah…
Please forgive my THAI HONORIFICS, if there's something wrong or something grammatically incorrect, please let me know so I can revised it again :) I am very new to Thai language and how to use them.
A BUDDHIST'S VIEW ON GAY MARRIAGE. Ajahn Brahm, Spiritual director of the Buddhist Society of Western Australia and Abbot of Bodhinyana Monastery. March 2012
I did some research and this is what I've found. Buddhist marriage is unlike the catholic and other religion that doesnt allow the union of the same-sex.
Ae in the novel has a fond way of calling Pete his wife. Its I think a Thai thing or endearment. Ae never looks or think of Pete as a girl or less, just because Pete bottoms him. Ae calls Pete wife because Ae is a traditional man. I will explain more on later chapters :)
Zeavola Resort is a real resort, I'm sorry if I created a different kind of hotel as I rely mostly using the net. That's the most beautiful resort I've seen and thinking about the place made me think of Pete owning that kind of hotel. :)
Hope you enjoy it :)