[T/N] I apologize for grammar mistakes and incoherencies
Love Sea: Tongrak & Mahasamut
From the Heart of the Author
What would happen if two people who have nothing in common are brought together by a twist of fate?
That was the challenge I set for myself while writing “Love Sea: Tongrak & Mahasamut.” For those who have followed my work, you might have encountered 'Mahasamut' and 'Tongrak' in “Love Sand: The Hot Beach Hidden Love.” Back then, I jokingly thought about what would happen if a handsome, sexy writer like Tongrak met a mischievous and free-spirited guy like Mahasamut. But it was a long-term plan that I never had the chance to write, as I was busy with producing series and barely had time for my beloved writing. Until...I wanted to create a series about the sea.
I must admit that I wrote this story with the intention of producing it in two formats simultaneously: as a novel and as a series. Therefore, this novel is almost identical to the script. You could say I finished writing a chapter, and then it was adapted into a series, and after filming, I would revise the novel to match. But hey, if you've read the novel, don't forget to follow the series version with Ford and Peat, okay? I want you to enjoy both versions.
Now, back to “Love Sea: Tongrak & Mahasamut.” These two characters of mine are so adorable (allow me to boast a little). In this story, I aimed to present the narrative through our protagonist's perspective, including the development of the story, their learning about each other, and the cuteness of Tongrak as seen through Mahasamut's eyes. However, I also wanted to show how deeply Tongrak is infatuated with this Southern guy, to the extent that he both wants to love and be loved, but being Tongrak, someone who's afraid of love, he'd rather run away and make the other chase him. Oops, did I just spoil it? Oh well, everyone knows I like to spoil stories (Ford says I leak more than he does), so let me spoil just a little bit.
Lastly, I always want to say thank you to everyone. I publish books very rarely; this one could be considered my first in about 5 years. So, I genuinely want to thank everyone who picked up this novel, giving me joy in writing once again. I'll keep trying my best, even though I know I'm not the best, but I'll give my all in every story. Thank you for the continuous support. No matter how many series I end up making, I'll always be Mame, a small-time writer who wants to make someone smile through words. And thanks to my sister (in real life) for being patient with me for so long, to the publisher for always giving me opportunities, thank you.
May everyone find happiness, and may Tongrak & Mahasamut do the same.
MAME
Publisher's Note
This novel uses colloquial language, slang, and profanity to reflect the era depicted in the story, to mirror the characters' personalities, and for linguistic flavor only. Neither the author nor the publisher intends any negative implications with these choices.
“Books and reading are the powerhouses of creativity.”
Q: Why did you hate Mahasamut from the first time you met?
Tongrak: Are you serious? You still don't know? He made someone like me sit in a junk cart!
Do I really have to answer more questions about this?
Q: And what else?
Tongrak: That guy is a total nutcase, completely annoying...but, he's so captivating I can't take my eyes off him.
And yes, I wanted him so badly I could go mad.
Q: Mahasamut said he fell in love first.
Tongrak: (Smiling) Of course, it's only natural he'd love me. I'm that great.
It's just...I'm no less in love with him.
Q: So, how much did you end up spending?
Tongrak: I don't know how much, but I'll keep spending because the currency is Tongrak (smiling charmingly).
Q: If you could tell Mahasamut one sentence, what would you say?
Tongrak: (Turning to smile at the person beside him) Tongrak and Mahasamut, it's happening now, isn't it, MAME? : Let's have Tongrak and Mahasamut, okay?
Tongrak
Q: Why did you want to tease Tongrak from the first time you met?
Mahasamut: Well, someone who's so...arrogant, with his nose in the air at such an angle,
thinking he's some kind of protractor, plus...
Q: Plus what?
Mahasamut: I like him when he acts like a cat. (Gentle smile)
What kind of person waits for me to fall asleep before climbing into bed?
Seems like they're really eager for a strong fight.
Q: Who fell in love first, Mahasamut?
A: Mahasamut: I'll admit it outright, it was me. He won't admit it easily, but just because I liked him first doesn't mean I lost, right?
Q: So, how much does one need to pay to get Mahasamut?
A: Mahasamut: You can't buy me with money. Just...as much as you have, Tongrak, that's all.
Q: If you could say one sentence to Tongrak, what would it be?
A: Mahasamut: I will love you without an end.
Mahasamut
Prologue Chapter:
Love is an annoying thing, and people in love are the most annoying.
So boring.
“Connor, let me wash it myself.”
“Oh, darling, you do it, I have to wash. It's no big deal, I'm not tired at all.”
Annoying.
“Khom, I think you've lost more weight, look, your waist has gotten so much smaller.”
“I think you're just looking for an excuse to hug me. Let go, my dear.”
“Who cares? I didn't invite him. Khom, you smell so nice.”
Fart!
I want to vomit!
“Connor, no, stop, I said don't touch.”
“You crazy foreigner.”
Until the sweet couple in the luxury condo started groping each other under the sheets, the bored guy who had been lounging on the sofa for the past hour sat up and cursed at the blonde, green-eyed friend who wouldn't stop hugging his young wife.
And that made the Southern guy with flushed cheeks hastily grab the large hand that had ventured under his shirt, saying with urgency,
“Connor, let go.”
As for Connor Warrington, what did he do? He just looked at his wife as if to say he would comply, then said…
“No.”
“Connor!”
With a brief word, Connor buried his face into the neck of his younger lover, pressing his lips against the smooth, dark skin, eliciting waves of protests from Khom, but to no avail as the listener was not interested. The more Khom squirmed, the more Connor attacked his sensitive spots, leaving the other man gasping.
And this man didn't hesitate to curse:
“You're a shameless foreigner!”
“If being shameless means someone who comes uninvited, eats without helping to clean up, lies sprawled in the middle of the house without permission, and won't leave when asked, I think you, a Thai, should know who's really the shameless one.”
As soon as the young man on the sofa cursed, the Canadian guy, who wouldn't stop teasing his younger boyfriend, retorted with a melodious voice, contrasting with the sharp Thai words he understood perfectly. Then Connor looked up, his sparkling green eyes gazed at his shocked lover with such affection, and he finished by planting a firm kiss on his forehead.
“Look at that cute face.”
If it weren't for the preceding sentence, one might have been swayed, but in this case, the younger man could only look at the person on the sofa with a wry smile.
“Connor!”
The only guest in the house stood up with an irritated expression, but in a moment, he smiled sweetly, knowing that anger wouldn't solve anything.
“You pervert, you-selfish, you dog mouth, you-indiscriminate!”
“Wow, I think you were describing yourself there, love.” The homeowner said with a smug grin.
Their amiable smiles contrasted with the sharp glances that said neither would give in, making it clear that...they were both as bad as each other.
And after Khom had known them for over six months, he knew well not to get between the two close friends when they were at war because...
“If you were Khom, you'd break up with this psycho.” ...he might get caught in the crossfire.
At this moment, Rak or Tongrak turned back to look at the younger southern man by over ten years with an endearing smile, which didn't surprise Khom at all why many young men and women wanted Tongrak in their bed. Besides his handsome face that leaned towards pretty, his skin was radiantly fair, and with his slender yet not overly muscular build, he was irresistibly charming, especially when his honey-colored eyes, ever stubborn and willful, glanced around, drawing many to cater to his whims.
Khom himself might be one of those, but not for this matter.
That thought made Khom look at the man hugging the waist and shyly say:
“I won't break up.”
“Did you hear that clearly? Even if you try to incite him to death, Khom won't break up with me.” Connor didn't miss the chance to wink at his friend, his arms tightening around his lover's waist until he was almost absorbed into it, unlike Tongrak who pouted.
Until the speaker continued with an amused smile, “Because then there wouldn't be anyone to pay for your tuition.”
“Oh, darling.”
Tongrak burst out laughing fully when he saw his usually stoic friend, Connor, looking dejected and sending a pitiful look to someone ten years his junior. The more he looked, the more he felt amused. The previous gloom was dissipating bit by bit. Tongrak had to admit that he really liked this kid, to the extent that he found it endearing.
About a year ago, when Connor called and asked him to find a private university and a condo room, Tongrak jokingly thought his friend was going to start taking care of a sugar baby. He didn't expect that not long after, Connor would indeed bring in his baby, but not just for fun; he was taking care of him to be his future wife. Connor even gave up his playboy ways, going so far as to tattoo the guy's name over a tiger tattoo on his back. Tongrak was curious about what was so great about this guy.
Upon meeting him, he understood. Khom had an innocence and purity that neither Tongrak nor Connor possessed.
Tongrak admitted he liked him, but that was it. He didn't have a taste for stealing friends' partners. Besides...
“Do I only have the merit of paying for your education, Khom?” When the utterly self-indulgent foreigner spoke in a small, quivering voice, it was rather creepy.
“Even though I love you so much.”
How could he be so smitten?
Tongrak glanced at the young man whose cheeks were red, looking like he was about to retort something, so he quickly interjected,
“Enough, enough, I'm not listening anymore. I give up, just go sweet-talk somewhere else, it's too much for me.”
If he had to listen to more of this lovey-dovey talk, he'd surely break out in hives.
“Then you can leave.” Said the Canadian coldly, dismissing him. Tongrak just smiled and...
Thud!
“No.”
Tongrak lay back down on the soft sofa, pulling a cushion under his head and hugging another, indicating that he wasn't going to leave even if the host was kicking him out. His white cheeks puffed up in a way his sleeping partner would never see, as he watched his close friend with a scrutinizing look.
In the past, this foreign guy wasn't any different from him; love was trivial, fun was more important. He might even have been worse, having made so many people cry. But look at him now.
His friend had changed a lot.
From a carefree womanizer who would take anyone to bed just for the thrill, now his eyes were set on just one person. Tongrak didn't know if this was stupidity or madness, but it was...kind of cute.
So what?
Just then, the emerald eyes turned to meet his gaze, making the beautiful person instinctively lower his eyes to escape.
“Khom, can you check my luggage to see if I've packed the gifts?” Connor gently nudged his lover forward, smiling tenderly.
“Oh, sure.”
After the handsome southern man disappeared into the master bedroom, silence enveloped them for a moment. Tongrak quickly sat up, but not before Connor, who was quicker, placed his hand on his head.
“You're lonely, aren't you?”
“I've already told you that you're ruining my look.” Tongrak swatted the hand away dismissively, speaking with an annoyed tone.
Connor didn't care at all; not only did he ignore Tongrak, he sat down beside him and loosely wrapped an arm around his friend's shoulders, his eyes gleaming with knowing.
“Then find someone to keep you company.”
“I don't want to.” Tongrak said stubbornly.
“I already have a partner, Rak. I can't just sit here listening to you complain three times a day after meals.”
“I'm not your after-dinner medicine, and don't try to be nice. Nowadays, you hang up on me after three minutes of listening to me.” Tongrak pouted.
“And I've been your pillow on the days you couldn't write your novels.” Connor continued, half-jokingly.
“That's why I said don't be nice. You haven't been my pillow for half a year now.” Tongrak couldn't hide the hint of grievance in his voice. It wasn't jealousy over his good friend; it was just...
“I'm not your toy anymore.”
Yes, just like a child whose favorite toy has been taken away.
He had known Connor since his time studying abroad, admired both his looks and his character, to the point where he could honestly say that Connor was an important friend—just a friend, truly, with whom he had never had any physical relationship. And perhaps the only friend to whom he told everything.
Now that his friend had decided to settle down with someone, he just felt like he was adrift, without a purpose. Not a speck of jealousy.
Not jealous that he now had someone special. Not at all.
“If you're jealous, go find someone too.” Connor said, half in jest, half in earnest.
“I never said I was jealous of you.”
“Don't want a boyfriend, don't want a lover, just a lonely person, huh?”
“You know too much.”
“How many years have we known each other?”
Tongrak turned his face away before his lips curved into an amused smile.
Click!
“Exactly, how many years have we known each other? Can Khom compete with me?” Tongrak said jokingly, his arm wrapping around Connor's waist in a familiar manner, his head resting on the broad shoulder, but his eyes were watching the young man at the doorway. He then glanced back at his best friend who didn't even flinch to move away.
Sigh, these guys are so boring.
Why does Tongrak find them boring, you ask?
“I won't compete with you, Phii Rai, because I came later. Besides...Phii Rak, I know you're Connor's important friend. You must come first.” Khom replied seriously, which made Tongrak laugh out loud.
Now, how could anyone not find this kid endearing? He takes everything so earnestly.
He, the one who came before, is just a friend, after all.
“Have you asked this one about that? I was here first, but since he's known you, Khom, how many times has he abandoned me? Don't make me count how many times he's hung up on me or stood me up after making plans, or had me book flight tickets for him, but don't worry, I won't take money to do that anymore. It's creepy to see a friend as someone’s husband.” Tongrak pushed himself out of the strong embrace, making room for Khom to sit in his place, and then reached over to pinch the kid's cheek playfully.
“I'd rather have someone like you, Khom.”
“Tongrak.” Connor's green eyes seemed to turn even greener.
“What? I didn't say I'm going to take your kid. I just want to know if there are more friends like him on the island. Introduce me to someone, but please, someone with some character, not those island kids who are all made up and spoiled by their parents.” As he spoke, he pinched Khom's cheeks again, thinking he might need some collagen injections soon, or he wouldn't be able to compete with the young, smooth skin.
After all, he was thirty-one this year.
Tongrak pondered and furrowed his brow, touching his own cheek.
Am I sagging?
“My friends?”
When Khom asked, confused, Tongrak nodded in affirmation.
“Yeah, if you have any, introduce me to someone.” The handsome man continued to touch his own cheek, feeling uncertain, especially seeing the smooth, honey-colored skin of Khom up close...
Maybe I should call and make an appointment with the doctor tomorrow.
“And where are you two planning to go that you're packing?”
Just like Connor, always the same...
“Visiting Dad and Mom.”
Gasp!
This time, Tongrak's hand paused, he turned sharply, looking at his close friend as if to say, “What's that?”
Meanwhile, Connor laughed heartily and said clearly,
“You got it right. I'm taking Khom to Canada for a month.”
“A month!”
“Yeah, don't die of loneliness before I get back.”
Connor not only used an overly sympathetic tone, but he also placed a hand on Tongrak's head and patted it like one would comfort a three-year-old.
“If you get too lonely, find someone to keep you company. At your level, Tongrak, men would follow you in droves. Ha ha!”
At this moment, Tongrak could only think...
People are not dogs, you vile friend.
The midday sun cast a shimmering light on the deep blue sea, the breeze carrying the scent of the ocean hit their bodies, the sound of waves against the boat resembling a soothing melody. Far off, the white sands of the beach stretched as far as the eye could see.
The image of a southern paradise.
Yes, most people might think so.
“This is hell, plain and simple.”
But unfortunately, Tongrak was not like most people.
Now, at the deep-water pier with a long bridge extending to the azure sea, the large passenger boat that Tongrak had chartered for himself stood out prominently, attracting the attention of the local fishermen. Typically, passengers would board from the main pier of the island. Chartering such a large boat just for oneself meant...wealth.
As for the rich man in question, he didn't care about the onlookers' stares. His white hand pulled off the famous brand sunglasses, revealing a sharp , beautiful, albeit annoyed, face.
“I shouldn't have been outwitted.”
And if anyone had been listening closely, they might have heard Tongrak grinding his teeth.
He was outsmarted, he had made a mistake, but what stung was that he was outsmarted by his own wretched friend.
“While I'm away, go get some rest. I'll handle it. Isn't your new work related to the sea?”
Yes, Tongrak is a writer, a popular one at that, with multiple pen names. His works have been adapted into dramas, series, and even translated into foreign languages. This time, he was about to finalize his latest manuscript set against the backdrop of a beautiful sea. Initially, he was worried because if his friend wasn't around, his helper for finishing the work might vanish. So when he heard the offer while feeling gloomy, he inadvertently agreed. But who would've thought that not only would he have to fly for hours, but he'd also have to endure a boat ride for over two hours!
A two-hour boat ride, mind you.
He wasn't in his early twenties anymore, like when he went shark-diving to keep Connor company.
Tongrak was now thirty, almost thirty-one, a man in his early thirties who slept late, woke up in the afternoon, couldn't function without caffeine, and drank alcohol as a hobby. So, when he was sleep-deprived and slightly hungover, facing something like this, his mood was bound to be sour.
And let's not forget the scorching Southern heat.
When would his ride arrive?
The handsome man looked around, but there was no one who seemed to recognize him.
Tongrak was ready to take a shower and jump into bed any moment now.
Urgh!
Just then, the sound of an engine caught his attention, and he looked up to see a motorcycle coming over the bridge. He sighed in relief.
But it wasn't his ride.
Tongrak thought that, but as he was looking for the vehicle that was supposed to pick him up, that very motorcycle stopped right in front of him, causing him to squint in confusion.
“You are Khun Rak, right?”
Tongrak furrowed his brows sharply.
Not because of the difficult-to-understand Southern accent, but because the moment the man stood up, his large, muscular frame almost completely blocked Tongrak from view. The man's messy hair, old trousers, and faded clothes made him question if he heard correctly.
“Are you the one picking me up?”
And as soon as the other nodded, Tongrak looked down at the motorcycle as if on autopilot.
“Are you insane? How am I supposed to put my stuff on that?”
The light-skinned man protested while gesturing towards two large, branded suitcases that cost a fortune, then shot a disdainful glance back at the small vehicle.
The listener looked down, pretending to ponder for a moment, then raised a hand as if to say, “Just a moment.”
Then, the big man walked over to an old man who was fishing, patted him on the shoulder, said something while pointing back at him, which made Tongrak want to jump back on the boat and return to Bangkok right then and there.
His intuition told him this was not going to end well.
Definitely not.
But before the man who was still hungover and caffeine-deprived could make a decision, the big man walked back with a wide grin.
“It's okay, I've arranged everything.” He said, gesturing to...a three-wheeled vehicle.
Yes, a motorcycle with a sidecar, commonly called a “saleng” Here, with exactly three wheels.
Not only that, but he had the audacity to smile widely, showing off his perfectly aligned white teeth, making Tongrak clench his jaw tightly.
When did you say you are coming back to Thailand...you're dead, Connor!
Chapter 1: The Island's Specialties
As the sun cast its rays on the water, creating sparkling reflections, the cool breeze carrying the fresh scent of the sea met their faces. The rich aroma of the lush forest surrounding the island might make city dwellers fleeing the chaos of the capital smile.
Yes, city people escaping the hustle and bustle would definitely love it.
Right? Are you sure about that?
Well, if you still think that after looking at Tongrak's face, which was too beautiful for a man, then sure.
This good-looking, well-built man with perfect facial contours was now...hugging a large suitcase while sitting on the sidecar of a motorcycle.
Yes, Tongrak was riding on a saleng!
As the old-new three-wheeler drove along the main road of the island, passing through the lush forest on both sides, which seemed even more green after a big storm a few days ago, the air today was cooler than usual. But that didn't mean the strong Thai sunlight wasn't hot, and now it was shining right on the head of the sleep-deprived young man, making him question himself...what madness brought him here?
From the boat to the shore, all he saw was forest, forest, forest!
Where's the beauty in that, you despicable friend!
Actually, when that man from who-knows-where pointed towards that crazy vehicle, Tongrak should have turned around and got back on the boat without looking back.
He should have done that, if it weren't for the fact that when he turned back, the private boat that (bastard Connor) had booked had already turned around as if in a hurry to go somewhere to die. And when he looked left and right for another vehicle that wasn't this one, all he saw were motorcycles, motorcycles, and more motorcycles filling the pier stretching out into the water.
Alright, now what was he supposed to do?
If anyone thought that Tongrak would easily surrender and get onto a vehicle that would ruin his lifetime image, they were sorely mistaken. The young man still struggled by turning around to ask the locals, but he got simple answers like:
“I can walk, the resort is close by.”
“Around here, we only have motorbikes, sir.”
“You can trust me to ride, you won't tip over.”
Who asked about trust? Just seeing him made Tongrak want to punch his stomach!
Tongrak thought angrily, and his anger grew even more because while he was struggling to find a way out, the large man had already loaded his luggage onto the bike and was gesturing towards the small, cramped seat as if he was offering a royal chariot.
“I won't...”
Tongrak was about to protest when he finally took a good look at the guy picking him up, right when the man stepped closer, making him tilt his head back to look up.
Standing at one hundred seventy-five centimeters, Tongrak never thought of himself as short, but now he had to crane his neck to look at the dark-skinned man before him. Even though his hair was tousled by the sea breeze, it couldn't hide the intense gaze of Mahasamut. Not to mention his thick, beautiful eyebrows and sharp nose, and his physique...
His honey-colored eyes almost wandered in appreciation, but he caught the glimmer of laughter in Mahasamut's eyes, which prompted him to lift his chin defiantly, ready to argue that he wouldn't go, he wouldn't ride, he'd go back home.
He didn't like this guy at all.
Click!
“Hey!”
And just as his instincts had warned, Mahasamut effortlessly lifted him onto the bike. Taking advantage of Tongrak's momentary lapse in readiness, he straddled the motorcycle, started the engine, forcing the writer to grab onto the side of the bike and clutch his stylish suitcase tightly.
It wasn't the suitcase he was worried about, but the laptop and the precious work he'd stayed up all night for inside it!
“You're not getting off, Phii?”
That's when the low, husky voice with a hard-to-understand Southern accent, mixed with a suppressed laugh, pulled Tongrak back to reality.
At some point, the oil-smelling motorcycle had stopped in the middle of the parking lot, and the young man turned sharply to look at the speaker. And don't think he didn't see that the big man was laughing.
And who would he be laughing at if not him?
Swipe!
That's it, the beautiful figure quickly got up, grabbed the phone from his pocket, and dialed the friend who sent him into this crazy situation.
“I'm going home!”
As soon as the deep voice on the other end answered, Tongrak retorted rapidly, already striding away from the incomprehensible speaker.
Not teasing him, but he couldn't understand a word.
[Hey, what do you mean going home, didn't you just get there?]
“Yes, and do you know what I've encountered? You said I'd get work ideas here, but you're crazy, Connor. I haven't even slept, my head's hanging by a thread, I feel seasick as hell, and you send me this lunatic who can't even speak properly, can't understand him, and do you know what he made me ride on? A sled!”
[What?]
Damn, now he had to explain Thai transportation to this foreign guy.
Tongrak thought irritably, preparing to scold his so-called friend who was both persuasive and, well, yes, downright coercive. It was forced, and he was forced to come to this island. What got him so hooked, he wondered, knowing that Connor found his wife here, but how does that involve him?
“Maybe you'll find someone like me.”
Who asked for that!
“I don't know. I'm taking the fastest boat back home, and if there isn't one, I'll call and book a boat myself. Give me the contact now...Oh, hey!”
That was when Tongrak cried out, as a large hand reached over to snatch the phone from his grasp, forcing him to turn and look confrontationally.
Again. He saw the quick flash of laughter in those dark eyes again. The warmth that touched his body indicated how close the big man had stepped.
If it were any other time, Tongrak might have surveyed and decided if he'd take this man to bed, but in his current foul mood, he only pursed his lips and looked up with irritation.
Little did he know how appealing that expression was.
With those big, bright eyes, and that red mouth, slightly puckered.
“Give me back my phone.”
But instead of complying, the local man brought the latest model smartphone to his ear, and the deep, pleasant voice spoke a sentence that left Tongrak speechless.
“I'm Mahasamut, Khun Connor.”
No, this introduction sentence isn't anything special. However, the other person spoke standard Thai loudly and clearly, causing Tongrak to blink in surprise as his mind wandered to past events.
He couldn't understand a single word. [1] In Southern Thailand they speak Southern Thai which is different from standard Thai and Northern Thai
He had clearly stated that he didn't understand.
But then!
“You can speak standard Thai!”
Tongrak shouted out in frustration, but the other person just raised an eyebrow, looking innocent as if he didn't understand why he was angry, and then turned to continue talking to Connor.
“Yeah no problem at all. I'll take good care of Tongrak...I can guess a bit.”
That's when the sharp face glanced over at him, and his well-shaped lips curved into an attractive smile that irked Tongrak.
His gut feeling told him that the smile was definitely about him.
There it was, laughing again.
“Quite stubborn.”
What? What did he just call him?!
Tongrak slightly opened his mouth, and Khom's teeth bit down on his lower lip, spreading a sweet, red flush across his lips.
Whoosh!!
A white hand reached out to snatch back the phone, but the larger man was quicker, dodging aside.
“I can handle it, Connor, don't worry...He's making eyes like a kitten now.”
Who's the kitten?!
Crazy, how much must Connor like this for him to laugh so loudly that I can hear it?
“Rest assured, I'll take care of Tongrak myself. Have fun with Khom.”
Tongrak, who was about to curse, stopped dead in his tracks when the name of his friend's lover came out of the mouth of the person in front of him, making him want to ask if this guy and Khom knew each other, or if he had missed something. But when the person below sharply turned back to meet his gaze and hung up, Tongrak snapped back to reality.
Snap!
A beautiful hand grabbed the phone back. His lips pressed together in extreme irritation, his large eyes showing a shadow of annoyance, and then he turned and walked away from him.
Normally, I would argue until I win, but right now, the only way to beat this annoying friend and this nuisance of a housemate who deliberately tries to annoy me is...to get off this island.
Tongrak thought as he quickened his pace, aiming straight for the resort's reception to book the earliest boat away from here.
“...”
But who would've thought that he would end up standing here in astonishment.
The moment he stepped out of the resort path, he emerged to see...paradise on earth.
Earlier, because he came out near the dock, he didn't notice. Plus, during the journey, all he saw was forest, forest, and more forest. Who would have thought the sea here would be so divinely beautiful?
The water was so clear you could see the white sand beneath, with colors ranging from light blue to emerald green, touching the bright blue horizon, more beautiful than an expensive cocktail, more stunning than a painting by a famous artist, more breathtaking than anything seen through a phone screen.
The scene before him was so beautiful that Tongrak could only stand still, letting the cool breeze blow against him, allowing the sound of waves to wash away his fatigue. That's when he heard footsteps from behind and a deep, pleasant voice saying:
“Tongrak, welcome to our island.”
Tongrak turned to meet a sharp gaze, which sparkled with mischief.
In this game, he lost.
Frustrated.
Annoyed.
So damn irritating!
If you ask how Tongrak feels right now, it would be...just like that.
“Why go along with it? You're not the type to follow anyone easily.”
Tongrak was unpacking his suitcase when he realized his breathing was getting faster, his pulse was strong, and his hands were clenched together. It would feel so good to throw a punch at someone's face. He took a deep breath, reminding himself he wasn't one to easily play along with anyone's game.
No matter who tried to mess with him, he would just give a cold smile and chase them away.
“But he won't go away!”
The person trying to stay calm threw another good shirt into the suitcase, then ran his hand through his jet-black hair, revealing a handsome face and smooth skin that...was now grimacing.
Tongrak thought back to the time when he carried his luggage up to the room.
Normally, the person who brings the luggage to the room should be a hotel employee, right? Usually, that's how it is. But what happened instead was that the man holding the key, carrying the luggage, and escorting him to the room turned out to be a guy named...Mahasamut.
How Connor met this annoying guy, I have no idea!
When he tried to shoo him away...
“Do you need anything else from me, Khun Tongrak?”
“No.”
This “no” Wasn't a refusal of service, but rather an expression of confusion!
This was yet another reason Tongrak was irritated. Initially, he could tolerate not understanding Mahasamut because he never looked down on anyone speaking in a regional dialect; he just didn't like not understanding the southern dialect. But when he heard him speak standard Thai perfectly to Connor, the writer immediately knew this Southern guy was messing with him.
“I can't understand you.”
Instead of switching to standard Thai, what Mahasamut did was...
“I said, Khun Tongrak, do you need anything else from me?”
He just spoke in a Southern accent...slower.
That was enough. Tongrak, who was usually patient, angrily pushed him out of the room and slammed the door in his face.
“Wow, Khun Tongrak is so kind, they say beautiful people have mean hearts, and it's true.”
He was still shouting from outside the door, making Tongrak want to open it and yell back, but he knew that would just encourage him more, so he turned his attention back to his luggage.
Knock, knock, knock...knock, knock...knock, knock, knock...
“Get lost!”
He kept knocking in the rhythm of a sports festival drum, until Tongrak couldn't take it anymore and shouted out loud.
“I just wanted to say...if you need anything, just call. My number is by the bed.”
Thud!
What was that gibberish...
At first, he was confused about what it meant, but once he caught some key phrases, Tongrak walked over to the bedside. The moment he saw the neatly arranged numbers, he grabbed the paper, crumpled it into a ball in anger, and hurled it at the door. How did Connor get to know someone like this!
“Frustrated!”
The more he thought about it, the angrier Tongrak got. He wanted to throttle his friend, but he had to wait nearly a month before he returned to Thailand to grin smugly at him. And if his friend knew that the person he hired was causing him this much distress, he'd be even more delighted, which made Tongrak question why he chose such a friend to begin with.
Must be past karma.
Once again, Tongrak took a deep breath, telling himself he needed to adjust his mood. What good would it do to stay upset like this?
That thought led the young man to look at his suitcase, and with his white hand, he grabbed a couple of pieces of clothing and headed into the bathroom.
Yes, he needed to change his mood a bit, especially since he was already on this paradise island.
It had to be like this.
As the twilight spread its dark, rich veil across the sky, turning the deep blue sea into a shade of indigo, and soft lights lit up the surroundings, the handsome young man with a face that leaned towards beauty stepped into the resort's bar and restaurant. His honey-colored eyes surveyed the area with satisfaction.
This beachside bar was as beautiful as he had read in reviews before leaving his room.
Initially, Tongrak hadn't expected much, just looking for a bar where he could relax with a drink. It was unbelievable that the resort he was staying at had everything he desired.
The bar was arranged like steps, each wide enough for good wooden tables and clean white seats adorned with colorful cushions. In the middle of each table, there were beautiful lanterns lighting up to create a romantic atmosphere. In the center of the bar, there was a large pool now occupied by several foreign guests in bikinis, but Tongrak wasn't interested in that; what caught his eye was the sound of waves crashing on the beach at the bar's edge.
Sssh...sssh...
Who would have thought this sound would relax him so profoundly?
That was the thought of a man who closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, taking in the fresh, clean scent you couldn't find in Bangkok.
Yes, Tongrak just stood there with his eyes closed for a moment, but it was a sight that attracted many gazes.
Tongrak was handsome, sometimes described as beautiful. His skin was very fair, often likened to the color of banana leaves. His eyes were large and captivating, especially up close, where they looked like amber. And Tongrak knew exactly how to dress to stand out.
At this moment, the young man was wearing a stylish black shirt with a deep V-neck that showcased his beautiful skin, paired with high-waisted black trousers that accentuated his slender legs and petite waist. Around his neck, he wore two necklaces; one long and free-flowing, the other pulled up to his throat. On one earlobe, there was a small diamond earring, completing the perfect look.
Every step he took drew attention.
Every action he made was seductive.
And Tongrak...knew it well.
Just by this well-dressed man entering the bar, he attracted more people's gaze than the beautiful women in bikinis by the pool.
The black color made his skin appear even whiter and more striking.
And with just a slight upward curve of his lips, Tongrak instantly knew he was at the center of attention.
This indeed improved his mood.
Tongrak thought to himself as he walked to the highest point of the bar, choosing a table where he could see the entire place the best, because when he could see everyone, it also meant everyone could see him.
“I'll have a gin martini.” The young man ordered, along with two types of snacks.
Asian or Western?
Not the food, but referring to people.
Tongrak smirked, his eyes catching a group of tourists, likely Korean or Japanese, glancing his way. He also noticed a dark-haired Westerner looking directly at him from the other side. But if asked about personal preference, he'd say he prefers Asians, though Westerners aren't bad every now and then.
It should be this kind of attention, not like...
“Mahasamut!”
Just the thought of that dark-skinned man, sharply made Tongrak groan inwardly. His smile faltered as he remembered the glint of laughter in those dark eyes whenever he thought of that name.
“Phii, you are Phii Mut's guest, right?”
That was when a cheerful voice rang out above him, making him turn to look. He saw a young man smiling brightly at him.
“Here's your drink, sir.” The drink was placed in front of him, but instead of returning to his duties, the waiter moved closer, sitting on his haunches beside Tongrak's seat, his eyes sparkling.
“Is there anything else you need?”
“Wow, Phii, weren't you just talking about Phii Mut?”
“So what?” He wanted to forget he even mentioned that guy's name.
“His name is nice, right?”
Ugh, he was annoyed, but as a writer, he had to admit that Mahasamut's name was quite unique.
“Yeah, I guess so.” Tongrak replied dismissively, taking a sip from his drink, but his response seemed to confuse the waiter.
“Wow, that's all? You know, if it were any other guest, the moment you mentioned Phii Mut, everyone would be all ears.”
“Who would want to know?” Tongrak retorted quickly.
At that, the young man scratched his head in confusion.
“A lot of people, Phii. Phii Mut is famous here on the island. Everyone says he's handsome, and recently, the Japanese girls were screaming about how cool he is. Maybe they like dark-skinned guys, huh? Oh, and it's not just the girls, you know.” The young waiter chattered eagerly, leaning in close and whispering.
“He gets along with the barkeepers too.”
Tongrak frowned sharply. He had no interest in this gossip, whether or not Mut was involved with anyone. But the waiter, still not satisfied, pointed towards a dark-haired foreigner who had been eyeing him earlier, and whispered excitedly,
“That one there, he's staying because of Phii Mut.”
Huh!
The listener froze immediately, turning back to look at the young man who nodded emphatically.
He nearly had to deal with the fallout from that guy.
Just the thought was deflating!
“And why are you telling me this?” The young man asked in a deep voice, indicating he was ready to leave, completely uninterested in the island's celebrity.
“Because maybe you're interested.” The waiter replied with a grin.
“Who's interested!” Tongrak raised his voice instantly.
Who would want that big guy? And for heaven's sake, it was his own observant nature that noticed the thick chest hidden under that worn shirt, not to mention the deep, incomprehensible southern accent which, he imagined, would be quite stirring if whispered seductively...
But there's no way he would take someone who made him sit in the cart to bed!
And it seemed that Tongrak's displeased demeanor made the young man realize something, prompting him to give a dry smile and mumble that he shouldn't have misunderstood, until Tongrak had to wave him off.
“Wait a moment.” but before the young man went back to work, the writer called him back, causing the boy to turn around with a bright smile.
“Interested now, Phii?”
“No.”
The listener pouted in a sulky manner.
So-Cute.
“But why did you think I was interested?”
Tongrak wondered why this kid was telling him this, or if he had shown any sign of interest in that guy, so he wouldn't do it again. This caused the young man to grin widely, almost to his ears, shaking his head rapidly, and then he spoke confidently,
“I don't know if you're interested or not. I just...”
“Just?”
“Wanted to tell everyone that this island has a great thing named Phii Mahasamut.”
Having said that, he went back to work, leaving Tongrak sitting still with this absurd reason that sounded like...
Is this the local specialty or something!
That guy, the one who knocks on the door like a sports event drum! A specialty!
Tongrak bit his lip until it hurt, then thought irritably:
Remember this then, he's definitely not taking this local specialty home. No way!
The young man thought this to himself as he downed his martini in one gulp, completely out of the mood to find someone to sleep with tonight. Because if that's the best this place has to offer, then what else could there be?