The One

Chapter 21

Over the following weeks, Gulf was immersed in his work, keeping busy with various tasks. While Mew was still overseeing the work, he took a step back and allowed Gulf to take the lead. This change was a great relief to the entire staff, as Mew had stopped micromanaging. Now, his sole responsibility was to take care of Gulf, guiding him and ensuring he took care of himself by eating on time, leaving work on time, getting proper rest, and staying safe. Mew also made an effort to build closer relationships with Alexa and Rose. While Alexa became his source of stress relief, Rose often caused him stress.

"The deadline will not change. Tell me how we can still achieve it," Mew said authoritatively. It was a rare occasion where he had to intervene and take over from Gulf.

"But it's impossible. There's too much work left. Rushing the project will cost us more," Max insisted.

"I agree, Phi. We have to extend the deadline by two weeks. I understand the implications, but we can't open the resort to the public with work still ongoing," Gulf added.

"Gulf! I said the renovation would be completed by the end of this month, and that stands," Mew said sternly, looking directly at Gulf.
"Now, tell me where the holdup is," he inquired.

Mew worked with the team to resolve all the glitches and issues, ultimately succeeding in completing the project two days before the deadline. Everyone was euphoric and greatly appreciated Mew's efforts.

"Great job, team! I'm grateful to all of you for your sincere efforts. Nong Gulf, I'm especially proud of you. It was your first project, and you did exceptionally well. I wish you all the success," Mew praised, leaving Gulf feeling embarrassed but pleased as Mew had never openly acknowledged his efforts before.

Mew continued, "Tomorrow, we will perform merit and have the resort's opening ceremony. In the evening, we'll celebrate with a party. So go home, rest well, and I'll see you all tomorrow."

The next morning, everyone was cheerful and filled with happiness. They had successfully completed such a significant project in a record span of six months. Monks chanted prayers and bestowed their blessings.

"Tueng, this is your first major project. I want you to make merit," Mew said.

"Let's do it together," Gulf responded, surprising Mew, who was ecstatic. After performing the merit, Mew took Gulf to the CEO's cabin.

"What is it, Phi?" Gulf asked, worried.

Mew pulled Gulf to sit in the swivel chair, leaned closer, and spoke in the softest voice, "Happy birthday, Mr. CEO."

"Huh?!" Gulf was taken aback.

Mew smiled, retrieved some papers from a drawer, and placed them on the table in front of Gulf. Leaning on the table, Mew continued, "I don't want you to ever step into your family business. So, the moment we got married, I started legalizing all our businesses. The clubs, casinos, hotels, and construction businesses will soon be fully legitimate. This resort is the first business that is 100% clean, and I would like to gift it to you on your 27th birthday."

Gulf was still speechless.
"You remembered my birthday..." he managed to say, making Mew laugh out loud.
"When have I ever forgotten?" Mew asked fondly.

Gulf blushed like a teenager, smiling from ear to ear, feeling as if his crush had noticed him for the first time.

Meanwhile, Rose was searching for Gulf at the party. Not finding him or Mew, she grew worried.

In the cabin, Mew's serious tone hinted that something important was about to be revealed.
"I have something to confess. I...you and me...ummm, we...umm," he hesitated.

Gulf's patience was wearing thin, he urged in urgency, "What is it, Phi?"

"We.. we are still married," Mew confessed.

"What?!" Gulf stood up in shock, unable to believe what he had just heard. Mew gave an awkward smile, knowing the impact of this revelation on Gulf.

"What do you mean we are still married?" Gulf's shock was beyond description.

"Calm down, Nong," Mew instinctively took a step back, fearing Gulf's reaction.

"Let me explain," Mew requested, hoping Gulf would listen calmly. However, Gulf crossed his arms, his brows furrowed, and lips tightly closed. Patience wasn't his strong suit.

Mew continued, "I know you asked Dad to make me sign the papers, but I couldn't do it. I realized how I was suffocating you, and you tried so hard to make our marriage work. But it was only when you left me that I realized how much I love you and I..."

"You how much what!" Gulf interjected, feeling overwhelmed by the continuous shocks. He doubted if his heart could take any more surprises.

Mew moved closer to Gulf, pulling his waist, embracing him in a hug, and looked deeply into his eyes. Sadness and longing were evident in Mew's gaze. "I love you, Tueng, and I was holding on to that thin thread of hope that you would still want me back," he admitted.

Tears threatened to fall from Mew's eyes, and he lowered his gaze, continuing, "I understand you want to marry Rose. They are your family. Don't worry, I'll get the papers done again and-"

"Are you kidding me, Phi?!" Gulf's voice startled Mew
"Don't you know me?" Gulf cupped Mew's face whilst still in Mew's hug.

"But I..." Mew attempted to explain.

"Do you really mean it, Phi?" Gulf interrupted, his emotions reaching a boiling point.

"Mean what?" Mew asked, uncertain of Gulf's intentions.

"Do you love me?" Gulf asked directly.

"I do, but..." Mew's words were cut off as Gulf pressed his lips against his, kissing him passionately. Mew though initially shocked, started kissing him back. It was a kiss filled with emotions, desire, and a longing for each other.

Gulf closed his eyes, completely lost in the moment, while Mew's touch intensified, wanting to feel even closer to him. The overwhelming emotions between them were undeniable. Soft sighs escaped their mouths. As the kiss deepened, their bodies pressed closer. Their mouths moved in perfect harmony, igniting a fire that consumed their every thought. Time stood still as they lost themselves in the intoxicating taste and texture of each other's mouths.

Unbeknownst to them, Rose was at door witnessing their confession with a heavy heart. She left quietly when she couldn't see it anymore

Breathless, they reluctantly parted, their foreheads resting against each other. Their eyes met once again, smiling when suddenly Gulf realised..

"What about Fai!"

AN: Hope you all doing well! Have a rocking weekend☺️☺️