[T/N] I apologize for grammar mistakes and incoherencies
Chapter 6: Barely Managed to Retreat
Boom!!!!
What just happened?
This was the first thought that came to Oat's mind...after feeling his body float in the air, then crash onto the cushion, almost losing consciousness, his brain barely functioning, just staring at the ceiling in utmost confusion, questioning himself what had just happened.
“Is that all you've got?”
Suddenly, a man's face blocked the view of the ceiling, speaking in a Thai that was clearly not native. The young man with a sharp, intimidating face and menacing eyes that seemed to look down on everyone, was now staring down at Oat, who lay there utterly exhausted, barely able to move.
This man...Nirasawa Akira.
Once Oat realized who was in front of him, he remembered why he was in such a sorry state. After being called to the training hall and wearing a judo uniform for the first time in his life, he met the head of the family, dressed similarly but in a black belt, waiting for him. The man greeted him with a friendly smile, but then asked if Oat could help by being his training partner, which was not a question but a command!
A command that meant he couldn't refuse, turning him into a training partner. No, more like a punching bag.
“Aniki, that's enough, man.”
At that moment, someone tried to stop the older man, but their firm voice failed to halt the action. Turning to look, Oat saw Shin looking tense, but even that couldn't stop the family head, who was much older than Oat, from continuing. Age hadn't diminished this man's strength; on the contrary, he was far more skilled than the younger Oat.
Oat had realized the difference the moment he was thrown earlier.
By nature, Oat was a boxer, knew how to keep his balance, and was confident that in any street fight, he wouldn't go down easily. But that was just street boxing. When faced with true, traditional martial arts, he found himself spinning and seeing stars.
‘Don't ask if I was caught off guard when I was locked and thrown. Ask instead when the other party got close to me!’
'Heh. If it's not judo, would it be karate or aikido then?'
The head of the family, who clearly didn't need protection, asked in a calm, indifferent tone, but with an underlying sneer that made the young Thai man rise again, checking his neck to ensure nothing was broken.
'I'm fine.'
At that moment, Shin stepped between them and said firmly, 'Aniki, if you want a sparring partner, I'll be it myself.'
Now, the two relatives exchanged a silent glance, and Akira knew his younger relative wouldn't let him do anything more to the Thai man. Thus, what the Japanese man said next was a floating remark, clearly directed at someone.
'Already needing protection, huh.'
Thump
The words made Oat clench his fist tightly, standing up to face him, still dizzy.
'Let it go, Phii Oat. You know you're being provoked, right?' Shin's tone was stern, and his boyfriend looked at him with sparkling eyes before turning to look at the Japanese man who spoke fluent Thai with an unyielding gaze.
'I won't let Shin protect me alone.'
'Hmm.'
Akira smiled slightly, his sharp eyes gleaming with amusement, as if looking at someone who had no chance against him. Then, in a clear but piercing voice, he said,
'But looking at your skills, if something happens, Shinji would have to step in to save you, right?'
Of course, Oat was silent because what the other said wasn't wrong. He had been in fights before, and those fights were mostly resolved by Shin's interference...Now, he wasn't surprised at all why his boyfriend could defeat a pack of dogs. It was because he had been trained since childhood.
The image of Shin standing over the human wreckage lying on the ground is still vivid in Oat's mind. He was in the racing field, but the one who ended things when a brawl broke out was Shin. Perhaps this is what drove the former head-hazer to still stand face-to-face with Akira with an unyielding gaze, not wanting to be the only one protected. The older Japanese man then turned his gaze towards his beloved younger cousin, “He hasn't given up, so I won't hold back.” He looked away for a moment.
“Aniki, if you don't hold back, you'll end up being sent to the hospital.”
Shin shook his head, his sharp eyes growing even more intense, admitting that this whole debacle wasn't as fun as he initially thought. The half-breed young man might have known that his brother had been preparing to welcome guests since last month, but he didn't think he would take it seriously. At most, it would just be some bruises and intimidation to scare him, make him shrink back. Not a real, serious fight.
Don't underestimate judo by thinking it's just a sport popular in cartoons. If the player doesn't know how to fall or lie down properly, how many have ended up with broken or sprained wrists? And now, he says he's going to get serious.
“Shin...I'm fine.”
Suddenly, Oat spoke firmly, adjusting his outfit, ready to fight again, which simply meant he was ready to get beaten until his brother-in-law was satisfied. This made Shin turn to look at him, staring silently for a long moment before shaking his head.
“Damn idiot.” Here I am trying to stop it, but he still cares about some stupid pride.
The thought of someone who waved off any intention to stop, but still spoke firmly, “When you fall, don't brace with your wrist. If you don't want to break a bone.” Shin said only that and then looked at his bloodthirsty brother who seemed eager to take it out on his lover, wondering if he shouldn't have vented his sorrows to him before, because this man might not see him as a brother...probably more like a son. When the son is hurt, the brother wants revenge, not to mention the principle of not making the person hate your face even more.
Phii Oat ended up being the target for someone wanting to vent their work stress.
“Heh. I wouldn't go that far,” said the one about to lunge.
Shin looked at his brother for a moment, then glanced at the people in the house who were secretly watching the family member beat the youngest grandson’s boyfriend, before turning back to his brother with a...thirsty look in his eyes.
He himself hadn't exerted much energy in a while, letting Phii Oat get beaten first before getting revenge...not a bad idea.
“Thais have a saying, 'A disciple shouldn't think of overthrowing the master,' Shinji.”
The look that Akira also saw, because the tall, handsome, and equally ruthless man, said with a chuckle, to which Shin replied with a tone of intent,
“But my family taught me that if someone harms someone you love, you must get revenge.”
“Heh.”
The two brothers smiled wickedly, equally, until Oat himself felt a headache coming on, being caught between these two, and it seemed Shin would have to get revenge for his loved one, because...
Thud!
“Phii Oat, don't use your hands to block!”
The second time he lay counting stars.
Thud!!!!
The third time he lay measuring the floor.
Thud!!!!
The fourth time he tried to fight back, but...he was slammed until he was knocked out.
“Phii Oat, hey. Phii Oat!!!!.”
That was the last thing Oat heard before...knocking out on the field.
A lesson that taught one that learning self-defense isn't just about not getting hurt, but also...preventing being knocked out mid-air by your brother-in-law.
For now...let's mourn for Arthit.
From day to night, before someone was knocked out completely, they would wake up to find a ceiling different from the training hall, and the place they lay wasn't just a crash mat, but a thick, soft mattress that helped keep the body warm. Moreover...
“Still alive, huh?”
Someone sitting not far away, asking in an irritating tone, allowed it, but got up slowly, only to find...
“Ugh...ouch...”
Oat couldn't help but groan, holding his waist and realizing something must have been sprained. His whole body ached, making the watcher laugh and shake his head.
“How's that, showing off, huh?”
“I wasn't showing off.” Oat argued, though not very convincingly, causing the listener to roll his eyes.
“You're lucky my brother held back. Do you think you're still in one piece because you're good? If he was serious, you'd be in the hospital by now.” Shin said bluntly, indicating his own frustration that people around here wouldn't listen to warnings. This made the head-hazer speak softly,
“I'm sorry.”
The half-Thai guy, who intended to play rough, paused when he saw the serious one feeling genuinely guilty. He waved it off, indicating it was over. Phii Oat didn't know how Shin felt when he saw his boyfriend fall and not get up.
Shin might have sat there watching, seemingly indifferent to his boyfriend getting hit, but he was always observing to ensure Phii Oat was okay. So, that last time before hitting the ground, Shin was ready to intervene if Akira didn't stop, but he did.
Not hitting his head on the ground, the shock from the back pain was more than enough.
His brother explained it like that, but Shin's eyes sparkled, ready for revenge. However, his brother simply said,
‘Take your boyfriend back to the room; I'll call the doctor to check on him.’
From the way it sounds, it's clear that the older brother intended to knock him out from the start...He even prepared a doctor from the beginning, which he wouldn't have thought to ask about how he was threatened like that. Wasn't he afraid that Phii Oat would get scared and run away? Because the older brother would probably respond in a serious, clear tone...If you can't handle just this, then you're not fit for this family.
Now, Shin himself is seriously wondering how his Thai father survived back in the day when he went to propose marriage to his Japanese girlfriend, but he can guess because every time he asked...his father's face turned pale like a boiled chicken with its feathers plucked.
“The doctor said nothing is broken, but if you feel pain anywhere, let me know so we can check to be sure.”
In the end, Shin returned to the topic of injuries, making the listener try to move, only to find pain everywhere, but not the kind that suggests something is broken. And Oat was confident too, because he had already fallen off a bike, so his bones must be tougher than most.
“Doesn't seem like anything's broken.”
“Then that's good...I've put muscle relaxant patches on you. But let's eat and take another round of precautionary medicine later. Otherwise, you'll be down for the count tomorrow.” The speaker dumped the bag of medicine bought yesterday onto the floor of the room, where the onlooker swallowed hard because what was prepared didn't seem exaggerated at all.
When Shin said he was preparing for battle, he wasn't kidding.
“Are you hungry yet? I'll have someone bring food here for you to eat.”
“Shin...are you mad at me?”
Suddenly, the person lying down grabbed Shin's wrist, making him turn to meet his gaze, only to see...the lonely eyes of Dear, but this was more like a lonely bear. “Should I be mad at you then?”
The half-Thai young man retorted, looking into the eyes of the guilty party, as he spoke again.
“If I put myself in danger, are you sure you could stay calm?”
“...”
Mister Arthit couldn't say anything, just closed his mouth and looked down, avoiding eye contact to show how guilty he felt, “I...just wanted to prove that I'm not solely dependent on you.”
Shin immediately retorted, “You act like we're in the middle of a war, do you think you're Oda Nobunaga with enemies surrounding you...that's why you always rely on me to fight the locals. Phii Oat...I also depend on you, you know, I might be better at fighting than you because I've been trained since I was young, but you have other things I rely on too. At the very least, you should know that I decided to continue studying here with peace of mind because I knew you'd be waiting for me...is that clear enough, former head-hazer?
No one can live completely alone. Shin knows that he can still act indifferent because he has this person's support. So, fighting isn't the main issue at all...now he's grown up. Phii Oat is working now...he doesn't have time to fight with those who are just sore losers.
Phii Oat's physical strength can't match his, but his mental fortitude is far greater.
“I'll tell you, Phii Oat...just by following me here, you've already won my heart.” The half-breed young man stared into his eyes, trying to convey his feelings, and there...he saw it...Phii Oat's heart.
A serious person who wants to prove himself even if it hurts, knowing he can't win.
“I'm sorry.”
The burly man apologized again, causing Shin to just sigh and gently stroke his hair.
“Hmm. No need to apologize anymore. You should go to sleep, I'll have someone bring food in.”
He didn't want to prolong the conversation...just looking at his exhausted state made him feel pity, and he had to slap his cheek again, urging him to lie down. Meanwhile, he got up, ready to tell the people outside to bring food in here, because he could see that the guest wouldn't be able to drag himself to the main house to eat.
“Shin.”
Suddenly, the man lying down called out, making him turn back to meet his gaze.
The big man, now with his eyes closed, but his lips moved to say...“No matter how much it hurts...I will still come to you.”
“Sure, go ahead and sleep now.” the homeowner replied with a hint of annoyance. But as he stepped out of the room, the sharp face that seemed expressionless due to irritation slowly formed a faint smile. He shook his head slowly at the person who was so serious it seemed almost crazy. But wasn't it because of this kind of personality that he was more captivated than by anyone else?
“Then you should know that just coming to me is enough.”
Shin smiled to himself as he walked to the main house. Then he stopped by his old bedroom, which was still the same as it had been years ago, including many cherished items that were well-preserved. Only a bit of dusting and chasing away new sounds were needed.
“It's fine, a little bit is good too. Consider it a reward for the injured.”
Although the first meal at the Nirasawa house was served in a separate building, it was luxurious enough to be considered a feast for guests. When numerous small dishes were brought to the table, including tempura, sashimi, and a hot pot as the main course, even the large young guest thought of what Shin had added.
“Don't expect every meal to be this lavish. This is called showing off to the guests that this house has plenty to eat.”
The homeowner's cousin spoke frankly because he had heard that the grandmother had ordered a feast specifically to welcome Phii Oat. Unfortunately, the eldest grandson had roughed up the guest so badly that they couldn't go out to eat together. Even now, while picking up raw fish to eat, Phii Oat was still rubbing his stomach gently.
“Does it hurt a lot? Do you want some medicine?”
“It's okay, I'll take the medicine after eating.” The large man shook his head, though his face winced slightly as he tried to swallow the food. However, since he said he was fine, Shin didn't nag. He listened to the deep voice that returned to the previous topic.
“Then you should have learned self-defense from a young age.”
“Yeah, just in case I get kidnapped for ransom.”
Gulp
The listeners were completely silent, looking unsure whether it was real or a prank, which made Shin laugh.
“Just kidding, Phii Oat.”
Shin easily retorted, though he had studied for that very reason. Having something to defend oneself is better than being an easy target. But it turned out he got even better when he was being picked on, and then...he got his revenge...Who would've thought that upon returning to Thailand, Thii's skills would prove useful?
Dear used to call him what again...the God of War?
Shin shook his head at the thought.
Try coming across my cousin, you wouldn't just be facing a mere mortal, but the reincarnation of the God of War himself.
“But I'm just a few things. Not like my brother, he's trained in everything, expert at it all, oh...and he's deadly accurate with a gun too.” That last line was what made everyone sure this house was anything but ordinary, and to prevent the listeners from getting too spooked...
“Don't worry...I have no stake in this house’s business. Once I graduate, I'll just go back to work at my dad's company in Thailand. I'm not planning to get involved in the business here.” Shin added, but didn't mention that the business in Thailand thrived thanks to help from relatives here too.
The company's named after my dad, but the majority shares belong to Akira.
A thought that made him nod slightly, but his attention was drawn to someone who let out a yelp.
“Ugh.”
“Hurts, Phii Oat?”
“I used to think judo throws that knock you out were just in cartoons, until today...” The speaker shook his head slowly, as he rubbed his back, which made Shin sigh.
“Try imagining falling with your full body weight plus the momentum from the thrower. Physics taught us how painful that can be. Calculate it, if you slam onto cement, even that can be lethal.” So, it's no surprise that anyone who crosses Shin ends up kissing the floor.
“Hurry up and eat...I think it's better to take the medicine, then after I'll shower...I'll apply the pain relief patch for you.” Shin doesn't have the energy to play around anymore. At first, he wanted to gloat at the person who didn't heed his warning, but seeing him like this is better.
“Worried about me?” He thought about hurrying him to eat and take his medicine.
The injured person looked up and asked seriously, to which Shin replied without any sugarcoating, “Not really, just afraid there won't be a son to return to his mother back in Thailand.”
That was all it took for the injured man to just bow his head and eat. He didn't dare to bring up the topic of concern again, because the look in the speaker's eyes clearly said...acting foolish and still seeking sympathy, huh?
So, he ate quietly, took his medicine quietly, better to let Shin's anger subside first.
After eating and taking his medicine, Oat then asked to take a shower next, because even though he served as a punching bag for practice, it didn't mean he wasn't sweating, and once the pain eased, he felt uncomfortable. So, washing off the grime would be best.
Not long after, the handsome head-hazer stepped out of the bathroom with a towel, rubbing his wet head with a soft cloth, only to find...
“Hmm, huh, huh~.”
A handsome man strumming a guitar and humming softly.
“Shin.”
The one who turned to look at him upon hearing his name called, and that made Oat freeze as if enchanted by this man.
The man with black hair shimmering blue, reflecting the light into a color so beautiful it's indescribable, combined with sharp, gleaming eyes, a strong jawline, and a deep, smooth voice that seemed to pull anyone listening into falling in love without realizing it...the man who smiled charmingly, leaving him standing there, as the pleasant sound of the song started to play.
“Do you realize...what you've done to my life...so much, gained from having...you by my side.”
Shin hasn't sung to him since he sent that song to court him back in their first year, but this time, he's singing...and only for Oat.
The man strumming the guitar, his voice melodious, regrettably heard by no one else but him. But if asked if he'd want others to hear it too?
No...Shin is mine alone.
The thoughts of the large man standing still, listening to the song conveying the feelings in his heart.
“~It's the warmth in my heart, the greatness of every day,
The goal, and the vital strength,
Because you are my heart,
Making every day I fight on,
Falling and rising, never discouraged, never shaken,
As long as you're still with me, forever.
Do you feel...what you've added to those nights,
How long, the joy from having you near,
It's the warmth in my heart, the greatness of every day,
The goal, and the vital strength...”
The song for you, - To, Sakdich, Wechasuparp
Eyes meeting eyes, as if hearts...meet hearts.
“Because you are my heart,
Making every day I fight on,
Falling and rising, never discouraged, never shaken,
As long as you're still with me,
As long as you walk beside me…~”
Shin presses down with his fingertips, letting the guitar sound resonate, before his large hand grips the strings to silence the room, and his deep voice sings the final line as he looks up to meet his gaze.
“As long as we are together...I am content”
The final verse was sung, and the only sounds left in the room were the rustling of leaves, the gentle flow of water from the bathroom, and the music...echoing in both their hearts.
“...”
“...”
Their eyes met as Oat laid down his towel, stepping onto the balcony where his partner sat, looking at him with a playful tone, saying...
“Just having you here...is enough for me.”
No need for life-threatening adventures or seeking approval from others. Here in Japan, just being together, supporting each other...that's more than enough.
Leaning in, Oat pulled his partner into an embrace, resting his head on the shoulder of the handsome guitarist, to utter one simple phrase:
“I love you.”
Oat knew he wasn't the romantic type, not the kind to sing love songs. Even if he could, he wouldn't be as impressive as Shin. But one thing he was sure of was the depth of his feelings, a heart that told him every day how much he loved...Shin.
Shin strummed his guitar softly, letting the music soothe the tender atmosphere around them, before the beautiful song flowed from his lips once more, and again.
The music caught the attention of the house's residents, and Akira, who understood Thai, gave a slight smile.
“Still as lovesick as ever, I see.”
But if this love made his friend happy, he'd ease off a bit.
Such were the thoughts of someone planning how to deal with that young Thai man tomorrow.
Chapter 7: A Good Encouragement Is Half the Battle
The morning sun returns to paint the sky, waking everything to meet a new day, just like the birds, big and small, singing their melodious songs, helping to rouse the big man who only got to sleep a few hours into the new day.
Mister Arthit blinked a few times before his sharp eyes adjusted to the bright light, gazing at the ceiling he's grown accustomed to. His body feels the softness of the Japanese futon, a gentle scent wafting over.
“Ugh. Shin.”
The first thing Oat does is roll over to grope for the person lying on the futon next to him, still half-asleep. But all he finds is the hard tatami mat, prompting him to peek over and find...it was empty.
Not just the person, but the futon that was there is gone too.
“Ohayo gozaimasu, Ota-san.”
Thud
That's all it takes for the big man to swiftly throw off the covers, springing up to sit straight when he hears the voice at his feet, only to find...an elderly woman.
No, not his boyfriend's grandmother, but a woman in a plain kimono smiling kindly at him, her hands busy storing the futon that was beside him into a cupboard. He glances around the room and sees another woman at the door, blushing deeply, turning away in embarrassment, making the young man realize...
Thump
Thud
“Khoton, um, no, sorry, um, no...”
“When did you become an exhibitionist?” Suddenly, the person who should have been lying next to him steps in from the balcony, hand on the door, grinning mischievously, his eyes sparkling as they meet Oat's, who is now awkwardly covering his bare chest with his hands.
“Shin.”
“Oh, last night was a bit much, wasn't it...Should I tell him?” Shin pointed his thumb at an elderly woman, who was sitting politely with her legs crossed, smiling at both of them in a way that was hard to read, but clearly curious about what the young master was discussing with the foreign guest, which made the listener scowl.
“It's not funny, Shin.”
“It's not funny, Phii, you are suddenly stripping for the girls. Look, it's natural for women to be embarrassed.” The listener immediately glanced at the girl in question, noticing her flushed face, yet she kept sneaking peeks, until Oat quickly grabbed his sleep shirt from nearby to cover up, his voice stern.
“Don't give him the wrong idea, okay? You know I took off my shirt because of the muscle relaxant patches!” He turned to show his back, covered in white patches, but his well-defined shoulders caught the girl's eye, making her eyes widen as she quickly stepped behind the door, causing Shin to burst into laughter. “I wouldn't do such a thing while at an elder's house.”
Laughing with twinkling eyes, knowing full well this could be interpreted in many ways...embarrassed, innocent, yet wanting. It was suspicious from the start when the kid followed to help pack up the bedding, which wasn't even his job.
The head worker probably sensed the young master's displeasure, turning to send the girl to the kitchen before smiling back at the guest who had shown off early in the morning.
“You can get up now. She needs to pack up the bedding.”
“Uh, hmm.” The just-awoken man nodded, swiftly getting up, revealing he still had long sleep pants on, feeling much more refreshed, perhaps due to the good medicine he took and applied, or maybe the kind encouragement from last night.
The song for him still echoed in his head, and that made Oat smile as he greeted the old folks back.
“Ohayo gozaimasu.”
A young man bowed his head, and the other responded with a smile, skillfully moving to pack up the thick bedding. There was no trace of an elderly woman who should be at home raising children or grandchildren, because in this house, this family was like that of someone who had worked for decades, and...she herself had helped the lady raise the young master since he was a child.
Why wouldn't the people in this house know who this strange guest was?
Certainly, many wanted to see, many wanted to know, but from what the young girls and children said, there were only praises about his looks...The young men admired his daring gaze when facing Sir Akira, not to mention how he allowed the current head of the family to practically treat him like a punching bag without a single complaint.
However, even if the other wasn't as handsome or brave, believe me, the people in this house would be delighted to see Shinji smiling broadly, his eyes clearly reflecting the joy spreading in his heart, something that couldn't compare to years ago...Back then, everyone's little young master might have put on a face, smiling as if nothing was wrong, but the old folks knew well how much he missed his home in Thailand.
Now, Shinji was smiling broadly, teasing the other with words she couldn't quite make out.
But sometimes, not being able to hear doesn't mean you can't catch the tone...how happy it was.
Shinji was happy, and that was enough.
“Why didn't you wake me up?”
“Not my job.” The young master, once seen as a lonely child, but to his friends around him, this was the real villain, shrugging, telling his partner with an utterly nonchalant attitude that someone else had come while Phii Oat was still asleep, making the late riser sigh heavily.
“Okay, my fault.”
The head-hazer, too lazy to be angry, just asked another question.
“What time is it?”
“Ten.”
“What?! Ten o'clock!?”
The listener's eyes widened. He hadn't realized he'd slept in so late. If he were staying in Shin's room or back home in Thailand, he wouldn't think much of it. But here, at his girlfriend's house, and with everyone in the house watching him, sleeping in felt like committing social suicide by giving Akira, that guy, more ammunition to tease him with.
“I'll take a quick shower.”
So, as soon as he finished speaking, he dashed into the bathroom with agility, because even in a cold country, he couldn't break his morning shower habit. Then, the sound of water splashing filled the air, and even the person cleaning the room turned to look at the young master with curiosity, only to be met with the sound of quick footsteps and a...smirk.
“I wasn't done talking, Phii Oat. I was going to say it's ten minutes to nine.”
The half-Thai guy laughed. He didn't feel like yelling to Phii Oat that it was okay to be a bit late since he'd been up for a while and was hungry anyway. So, rushing someone who was already sore to get dressed faster wouldn't hurt, right?
The thoughts of the person who glanced towards the door, seeing the worker's uniform that should have been back in the kitchen still peeking out, made the corners of his mouth curl up, his eyes twinkling.
Seems like you've got quite the charm.
No worries, Shin here will dampen the fiery charm of this big bear. This time, it's not water to douse the fire, but fire to consume fire.
Is Shin in cahoots with the Nirasawa household to prank him?
This was the first thought of the handsome Thai guest as he entered the dining room, where two places were already set. Even though Oat was easy-going and could eat rice with fish sauce and chili back home, here, faced with a traditional Japanese breakfast, he found himself in a predicament...unable to swallow or spit out.
In front of Oat, there's a steaming bowl of rice, accompanied by fine wooden chopsticks. Next to it, a miso soup with various vegetables. But the problem isn't there.
Next to the rice bowl, there are two raw eggs.
And next to the raw eggs...seasoned natto.
If there's something Oat can't eat in Japan, besides raw eggs, it's this fermented bean paste called natto!
The thought of the slimy beans, mixed with a couple of vegetables and probably seasoned further. No matter how good it looks, like it's straight out of a high-end restaurant, he's never been able to bring himself to eat it. He inadvertently looks up, meeting the eyes of the person sitting opposite him.
The person who looks at the breakfast with a puzzled expression, then looks up to meet his gaze.
“I'll have them fry some eggs...”
“Is there something about breakfast at this house that you don't like?”
Before Shin could even utter a word in Japanese...someone stepped in, wearing a casual yukata, flicking his suit in a way that sends Shin's eyes in different directions, revealing a true-blooded Japanese samurai with a charming smile, stepping in to join the table, signaling to Oat...a bad start to the day.
He's probably been killed by the food laid out in front of him already.
“Have you had breakfast, Aniki?” Shin squints.
“So you avoid eating breakfast with others...that's rude, Shinji.” The younger one rolls his eyes upon realizing he's been caught. He didn't wake the one who was completely knocked out because he intended to avoid eating breakfast with the household...as for manners, forget it, after throwing guests over the shoulder. Why care about not eating breakfast together?
“And as the host, it's normal to welcome guests.”
“Heh. Not like yesterday.” Shin retorts, with the listener giving a faint smile, answering without hesitation.
“Yesterday. I was a bit tied up with work.”
Or if you're looking for an excuse to welcome a guest, just say so.
The listener was too lazy to argue with his cousin, knowing well where those bad habits came from. It was this man who taught him everything, so it was best not to argue. Then, Shin turned to his mother, once again at home. He intended to tell her to prepare some fried eggs, sausages, or anything easy for the guest, but...
Swish
“So, do you have a problem with how breakfast is handled in this house?”
Oat always found himself amazed at this man's Thai language skills, just like now, when Akira was using clear Thai to pressure him, his gaze fixed on the beautifully arranged Japanese-style breakfast in front of them, forcing a smile in response.
“No, sir.”
“Good. The kitchen staff made a special effort to prepare breakfast for the guests.” Akira said, his tone steady while giving a warning look to his younger relative not to argue. Because even Shin should know that a special breakfast isn't flavored natto or raw eggs, as it usually is when guests or relatives stay over. It's only this time they're serving what seems like an everyday meal of the house, yet...
“How else would you know how Shinji grew up?”
Even though they're from an old family, it doesn't mean everyone eats grilled fish with soy sauce and full sides every morning. Moreover, the favorites were all there, which Shin ate without feeling they were smelly or fishy at all. But for another person...
I'm doomed, Phii Oat thought.
The thoughts of someone who was up early but saw that his partner wasn't giving up either, picking up three chopsticks, murmuring “Itadakimasu.” It was his turn to start, even though he couldn't laugh about it.
Phii Oat looked like he was being forced to swallow bitter medicine. No, to eat natto, to the point of being utterly pitiful.
Currently, the former head-hazer who once made a freshman cry in the cheerleading room is now reluctantly chewing on fermented beans, alongside plain rice with a look of disgust...Despite his efforts to remain composed, his chewing and pausing, then sipping tea, makes it hard not to feel sorry for him.
“If there's something you can't eat, you don't have to eat it...”
“The kitchen staff would be heartbroken.”
Gulp
Before the younger brother could finish his sentence, the older brother interjected calmly, sipping his tea. His sharp features might not have broken into a broad smile, but it was clear how much the big guy enjoyed watching a Thai struggle with national cuisine. He even added,
“I recommend cracking an egg into it and eating it together.”
The host, or rather, the inviter, had spoken. A good guest could only set down his chopsticks and grab a cute white egg, which if it could speak, would probably say, “Eat me, eat me!” until Oat felt like throwing it at the wall. His sharp gaze could only glance at the host, who might be a devilishly handsome man, but his playful antics were just as devilish.
Yesterday, he assaulted the body; today...it's the soul.
Crack
However, the one who came with determination wouldn't give up easily. He managed to crack three eggs, thanking the meal, onto the rice. Looking at the vibrant red yolk, supposedly of high quality, mixed with natto, another big bite. Just seeing these two things together on the plate made someone who couldn't stand either...want to retch.
Oat weren't looked down on Japanese food, but one shouldn't blame a foreigner for not being able to eat fermented fish either. The smell, the taste, varies from culture to culture!
“People, indeed.”
Yet, the host hasn't let the guest eat freely, because the deep voice commanded continuing to make the big guy use chopsticks to stir the beans and eggs slowly, trying to stretch the time of death to the utmost, looking at the colors that should be eye-catching, turning into dull, murky shades that no matter how you look, they're unappetizing, but...just bear with it. Come on, you love him, right...just this much, kids.
The thoughts of someone holding his breath, as he shovels a big mouthful of food into his mouth, chewing quickly, his face staring ahead, but not seeing anything. Because once he chews, the smell hits the nose, and when he swallows...almost choking.
“Ahem, ahem, ahem.”
No...Oat isn't clearing his throat for attention; he's trying to stifle a cough because he forced down a whole mouthful, and if people look, they might think he's tearing up, sharp eyes...with tears welling up.
Tears not flowing clearly, but making the eyes red, with glistening drops, so you can tell. Suffering more than being dumped, it's during this breakfast.
Of course, Shin...feels terribly sorry.
He wants to help too, but glancing at his brother, he finds the other's eyes gleaming with delight, which means if he interrupts, this elder brother would make things even tougher, accusing him of spoiling his fun, and it wouldn't just be forcing Phii Oat to eat rotten beans mixed with raw eggs.
Better to make Akira happy as soon as possible.
So, he's done all he could...he can only wait.
The thoughts of someone eating their own breakfast, occasionally looking at the big guy who's almost in tears, having lost all composure.
Sigh, whatever, after this, he'll serve him a bit.
“Phii Oat, here's coffee to rinse your mouth.”
Thud
More...more...more...
At this moment, Mister-Channon didn't know whether to laugh or shake his head as soon as his elder relative stepped out of the room. The person who had just managed to swallow breakfast nearly collapsed onto the floor, and when offered a freshly hot cup of coffee, Phii Oat practically lunged for it. Not caring if it was hot or bitter, he gulped it down in one big swig, finishing the cup in one go.
“Are you okay?”
This situation was far from okay.
“Okay!”
But the older man insisted that this was nothing he couldn't handle, even though Oat was worried about what his stomach would be like after consuming those two disagreeable items so heavily. Shin slowly shook his head while sipping coffee to cleanse his palate.
“Sorry, Phii. Didn't think my brother would pull something so childish.”
Who would've thought that the yakuza, or rather, the fluent Thai-speaking big Japanese businessman, would play...with food, but then again...maybe it was because Shin's brother didn't intend to do anything more than that.
If, however, Phii Oat had to stand before Shin's elder brother on a day when the half-Thai man had pained eyes from sorrow, believe me, being thrown around or forced to eat pungent food would seem like the smallest, funniest thing compared to the storm of anger from that man.
“It's okay...just this much.”
“Just this much that made you look like you wanted to puke all through breakfast.”
“My face was that bad, huh.”
I really want to get a mirror for you to see.
Shin didn't say anything...just finished his coffee in one gulp, placed the cup on the table, looked at the person who was still sprawled weakly over the dining table, and patted his shoulder encouragingly.
“Ouch!”
But the one who had once fallen off a bike and dislocated his arm jolted in shock, barely managing to dodge the pat.
“Does it hurt a lot, Phii?”
“Don't worry...I just haven't exercised much this month, so it's normal to feel sore when I exert myself.” The speaker hoped this would reassure the listener that he was really okay, but it seemed Oat had misjudged. As the half-Thai guy waved his hands around, he jokingly remarked,
“I'm not worried about you right now, but remember what I told you...You're looking pale, senior. I also recall what the host said before leaving the room, 'See you at the training hall in two hours.'“
Snap
When Shin said that, Oat raised both hands to his head in despair, realizing there was no escape, as they were probably planning to beat him to a pulp right before heading back to Tokyo tomorrow. Oat's demeanor, looking like he was about to face execution, made the guy with the beautiful hair sit down beside him, lean back against the wall next to the still-stressed Oat, and pull out his phone to open a website he had bookmarked for bedtime reading. Then, in a casual tone, but seriously,
“Want to run away, Phii?”
“Hmm.”
Shin lifted his phone higher so the person behind could see, and simply invited,
“Let's go on a trip.”
On Shin's phone screen was a picture of a famous temple in Kyoto that Oat had seen many times before. Now, looking at the beautiful hair that shone even more in the daylight, Oat's weary heart, tired from a large bowl of bad beans, seemed to swell.
“If I say let's run away, what would you say?”
“It's our business, not theirs.” The half-Thai guy replied clearly, which even if explained to Dear, the dog, he wouldn't understand, but to the person now serving as a backrest, it made him smile broadly.
“You'd say even if your family doesn't accept me, you wouldn't care, right?”
“...”
The speaker didn't reply, but the corner of his mouth lifted.
Yes, this relationship is between Shin and Oat. No matter which family, they have no right to decide whether to end or continue the relationship. And why should one stay here and continue to be bullied by this household?
A thought from the person behind who went silent for a moment.
“It's fine.”
“Let's go.” Shin might say that, but he didn't move an inch, as if he knew...knew that the serious one would continue speaking.
“But I'm not going.”
“Why?” The mixed-race guy asked with a smile.
At that moment, one of Mister Arthit's arms moved to wrap around the shoulders of the younger one, and then he took the initiative to lean in and plant a light kiss on the beautiful colored head, reaffirming his intention since he knew he had to come back here.
“Because I care about the person you care about.”
A short phrase, a brief sentence, but it made someone like Shin smile broadly, nodding twice.
“Good answer.”
“But you already knew I would respond like this.”
“Yeah, and because I knew...I prepared something for you.” Oat raised his eyebrows slightly, waiting, listening for what would come next, but the phone owner didn't answer, only shaking his head with a slight smile, looking left and right for a moment, making sure no one would come in to see them for sure, then the serious one...
Grabbed Shin's chin to lift it up.
“I'm not asking for anything, except for some encouragement.”
“How?” The one whose chin was lifted until his neck was almost fully extended just asked with a teasing smile, until the one seeking encouragement lifted the corner of his mouth, and instead of answering, the sharp face leaned down towards the person lying down, leaning on him, but...
“Heh heh...Now it smells like natto.” Shin raised two fingers to his lips, still smiling challengingly, wondering if those who hated the strong-smelling fermented soybeans would dare to kiss him now. But for the one who did, his face looked like he had just tasted bitter medicine. He pulled that hand away and whispered,
“In case I might start liking natto.”
As he finished speaking, their lips met firmly...even in an awkward posture, one tilting up, the other bending down, their lips pressed together, their tongues intertwining. They didn't care what each had eaten for breakfast; there was only sweet saliva, soft tongues, and the gentle touch that enveloped them.
“Uh...”
Smack.
As Oat was about to pull away, the one almost lying flat on the ground (Shin)...grabbed his neck firmly, pulling him down for an even tighter kiss, his tongue continuously teasing, alternating with playful bites on the lower lip of his senior, until Oat himself wanted to taste more...kiss more, savor more.
“Ah.”
Their lips parted. Only a clear thread connected from the tips of their tongues, and then the serious one whispered first,
“I think I'm starting to like this kiss.”
The speaker looked into his eyes hoping to see embarrassment, but Oat only found a sly smile, and a pleasant deep voice whispering back,
“But I don't like it.”
“...”
That made him look serious, huh.
Shin laughed inwardly...as he yanked the other's head down a bit more, then whispered in his ear, “I don't like the taste of natto in a kiss, but I like the taste of...you.”
Then he pulled back, raising his eyebrows provocatively. While the hand that yanked now turned to stroke the messy hair, leisurely, looking at the one whose face was still close, in a way that Oat was about to press for another kiss, as a challenge, but...
“Yikes!”
Gasp!
Mister Arthit was startled, barely managing to pull his face up in time. Meanwhile, Shin simply sat up with an air as if nothing had happened, turning to look at the housemaid who was bowing her head, her cheeks flushed red, then reporting softly why she had interrupted.
The report made the young master smirk with satisfaction.
“Is something wrong?”
“Today you are free, sir, you can go out.”
“Wait, wait, what about your brother...” ...Of course, the stern-faced buffalo, [embarrassed at being seen] asked in confusion, grabbing the hand of the person who had briskly gotten up, looking at the clock which indicated he still had over an hour to brace himself before he had to transform into a punching bag again, asking what could be done at this time.
Shin replied casually,
“I've cleared the way.”
“Huh?”
Oat was puzzled, only able to watch as the person leading the way returned to the separate house to change clothes, eventually following, bowing his head to the maid in apology for the inappropriate scene, and then quickly following, listening to the satisfied tone from his boyfriend's mouth.
“Aniki has an urgent job in Tokyo...he's already left the house.”
Even though Oat didn't know what his boyfriend had done, from that villainously pleased expression, it wasn't hard to guess whose handiwork it was that the host hurriedly left without saying goodbye to his guest.
“Did you do something?”
“I don't know.”
Although he answered like that, Shin-san surely knew this was about bringing his boyfriend here for practice. So, he had contacted his brother's people several days before to “summon” the other back for work. Therefore, Akira's rush back to Tokyo was part of the plan from the beginning.
Thoughts of the mixed-race young man looking back:
“I told you I wouldn't let them mess with you easily, right? Being with me is a hundred and eight times more comfortable. Of course, I didn't mention that they should let them have a go before, just for the satisfaction of it. If you want me as your wife, you'll have to fight for it, Phii Oat.”