Talk To Me

10. Caught in the act

The long-awaited day had finally arrived, and the party was in full swing. Kind knew Wale wasn't one for large gatherings, but for Cherry, he'd make an exception, especially with such a private and beautiful setting. The location was perfect, secluded enough to please Wale's introverted soul while offering enough charm and atmosphere for Cherry's more outgoing nature.

Todo was right about this place, Kind mused, feeling quite pleased with himself for securing such a gem, thanks to his boyfriend's suggestion. "You've outdone yourself, Todo. This villa is perfect—just the right blend of quiet and lively. The garden, the trees, the whole ambiance... I feel like I'm on holiday!"

"I'm glad you like it. There's a gym inside, by the way—Swalha mentioned your love for fitness," Todo replied with a smile.

Kind nodded, excitement flickering across his face, though he couldn't shake a slight guilt. Their relationship was still so fresh, and yet Todo had already given so much, including the use of his family's vacation home for an event that, frankly, didn't benefit him in the slightest. He's definitely from money, Kind thought, though he hadn't quite realised the extent of it until now.

He didn't notice he'd spaced out until Todo tapped him on the shoulder. "You seem lost in thought. I was just thinking about what we'll do after the party. It's a bit of a drive back to the city, and knowing my friends, they'll want to stay a few days. We should leave early if we want to make it back before sunset."

Kind's body language had been giving him away all evening—he clearly didn't want to spend the night here, though Todo assumed it was just the fatigue from running around, making sure everything was perfect for Cherry and Wale's engagement celebration.

It's hard enough watching everyone congratulate them, and I'm expected to join in, even though I had a hand in this whole thing. Still, it brought a sense of relief seeing Cherry finally at peace, no longer doubting her place in Wale's life.

Todo's voice broke through his reverie. "I'd thought we could spend the weekend here ourselves—Swalha mentioned you love the beach, so I chose this particular villa for that reason. But maybe I should've asked first."

Kind shook his head quickly, realising he'd been quiet for too long. "No, no, I do love it here. It's just... wouldn't the newly-engaged couple want some privacy after all this?"

Todo, ever gentle, tapped him lightly on the nose. "You're spacing out again. Should we just skip the rest of the party and head inside?"

Kind nodded, grateful for the escape. Todo smiled, placing a hand on the small of his back as they slipped away from the garden party.

"I'm not much for parties either," Todo said as they moved through the villa. "There are... other ways we could spend our time." He gave Kind a sly grin. "Twelve rooms in this villa, but I made sure the master is ours for tonight. I hope I didn't overstep."

"Todo, you sneaky devil!" Kind's sombre mood lifted, his face breaking into a grin. "Let's disappear before anyone notices."

They hurried inside, sneaking past the guests unnoticed—or so they thought until Kind caught a glimpse of Swalha through the window, watching them like a hawk. Of course, she would be the one to notice.

Swalha, ever the mischief-maker, licked her index finger and pointed at Kind in a suggestive manner. He couldn't help but chuckle as they slipped through the door.

"Swalha saw us," Kind said, barely breaking their kiss. He wanted more, but the thrill of getting caught kept him on edge. "How far is the room?"

Todo, equally as fired up, decided not to waste any more time. Grabbing Kind's hand, he practically dragged him to their reserved room, both of them giddy with excitement, like schoolboys sneaking off for mischief.

They barely made it to the bed before their clothes were off, their bodies tangled together in a blur of passion. Todo's moans filled the room, each one urging Kind on, as the hours slipped by in a haze of pleasure. They paused only briefly before diving back into each other, the intensity building until Todo finally surrendered, breathless and satisfied.

Hours later, Kind woke up first. He turned to look at Todo, still sleeping peacefully beside him, and couldn't help but wonder how he'd gotten so lucky. He's too good for me, Kind thought, and yet, he's here, fully aware that I've been in love with someone else.

Todo's words from their first meeting echoed in his mind: "I'll wait for you. I'm not asking you to love me right away. But if the person you care for doesn't see your worth, just remember—I'll still be here."

How could I turn him down after that? Kind smiled, leaning over to place a soft kiss on Todo's lips before slipping out of bed.

The room felt humid from their earlier activities, so Kind turned on the air conditioner, glancing around the spacious apartment-style room. It was equipped with everything—its own living room, a kitchen, and even a dining area. I should have checked this out earlier. I'd love to come back here, just the two of us, no one else around.

Checking his phone, Kind was startled by the number of missed calls. Most of them were from Cherry. When he called her back, she picked up immediately but said nothing.

"Cherry? Are you there?" he asked, panic rising as the silence stretched on. What's happened? he wondered, quickly dressing, hoping nothing had gone wrong with the party.

As he stepped out of the bedroom, he noticed a figure sitting at the dining table. The bright red dress was unmistakable. It was Cherry.

"I heard everything, so don't even try," Cherry said calmly as she stood and walked towards him. Her expression was unreadable. "You two were careless, leaving the door wide open. Your... noises led me straight here. Don't worry, though—I shut the door for you once you were nearly done."

Kind's mouth went dry as Cherry continued, her tone eerily composed. "I didn't say anything on the phone because I didn't want you to know I was here. I didn't want to wake your sleeping... lover either."

She met his eyes, unwavering, while Kind stood frozen in place. "I was looking for you because I wanted to personally thank you for all your hard work today." She kissed his cheek, then turned to leave, pausing at the door. "I hope you'll introduce Wale and me to your love sometime soon."

And with that, Cherry was gone.