Whispered Wishes: The Magic of Childhood Dreams

4

Saint was sitting in their bedroom as it was Zee and Saint's first night. Saint was fidgeting in bed. His friends had given him the talk about "lengths" and "depths" that made Saint giggle at that time. However, imagining it now, a small fear crept upon his face. As he was lost in thoughts, the bathroom door opened with Zee wearing only a towel. Saint's mouth fell open as he found himself staring at his husband's chest. He couldn't take her eyes off Zee who still had few droplets clung to his hair and skin. His body was like a sculpture, every muscle carved and defined. His chest was broad and firm, his abs rippling with every movement. He looked strong and confident, but also gentle and kind. Saint felt a surge of attraction and admiration, wondering what it would be like to touch him, to feel his warmth and his heartbeat.

He didn't realize he was gawking at his husband. Zee looked amusingly at Saint's expression. He cleared his throat which brought Saint back from his thoughts.

"Umm...Saint. I have a Zoom meeting to attend right now. So, I better get ready for that. You can go to sleep if you are feeling tired." He walked away to get dressed leaving Saint all weird and awkward.

It took Saint a moment to comprehend what exactly happened. Did his husband just ditch him for a meet? Wasn't it supposed to be their first night? Saint sighed and sat further deep in his bed.

*************

Zee's warm smile enveloped Saint as he stepped through the doorway. "Please, come in. This is your home now, Saint," Zee said, his voice filled with genuine affection.

Saint followed Zee inside, a tinge of disappointment still lingering in the depths of their heart. They had envisioned a romantic honeymoon, a chance to celebrate their new union and create cherished memories. Yet, the demands of Zee's work had left them without that dreamy escape. Understanding Zee's commitment and not wanting to burden him, Saint kept their desires to themselves.

As Saint stepped into the apartment, their eyes scanned the unfamiliar surroundings with a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Zee's apartment in Bangkok was a striking display of modern design and sophistication. The spacious layout offered a sense of freedom, while the thoughtful arrangement of minimalist furniture and neutral colors created an atmosphere of tranquility and comfort.

As they settled into their new home, Saint couldn't shake the lingering feeling of unfulfilled expectations. The beginning of their married life had been far from the vibrant and surprising adventure they had imagined. However, Saint chose to remain silent, believing that love required patience and sometimes sacrifices.

Muan Nang, the maid-cum-caretaker, stood at the entrance of the kitchen, ready to greet the newly married couple. Zee introduced her to Saint, sharing that she had been a part of his family since his childhood, ensuring he was well cared for. A curiosity sparked within Saint, intrigued by Muan Nang's significant role and the air of mystery surrounding her connection to Zee.

Unbeknownst to Saint, Muan Nang possessed knowledge about Zee's past but had chosen to keep it hidden. She had been entrusted as a "special agent" by Zee's mother to safeguard his well-being. Muan Nang's presence was not only that of a caretaker but also an observer, providing secret reports to Zee's mother.

As Muan Nang respectfully greeted Saint, her eyes held a discerning glimmer. She welcomed him, yet her focus remained on analyzing the impact he would have on Zee's life. Muan Nang harbored reservations, but she hoped that Saint's presence would bring positive changes to Zee's journey.

On the other hand, Saint felt a surge of happiness wash over them as they entered their new home in Bangkok. This vibrant city had always held a special place in their heart, and now, with Zee by their side, it had become their reality. Expressing their gratitude, Saint turned to Zee, their eyes shimmering with appreciation.

"Thank you, Zee," Saint whispered softly, their voice brimming with genuine appreciation. The apartment, meticulously arranged and flawlessly clean, revealed Zee's efforts to provide a comfortable and inviting space for their shared life. As Saint surveyed the surroundings, a deep sense of belonging settled within them. This place was no longer just Zee's; it was their cherished home.

**********

The next morning, Saint busied themselves in the kitchen, preparing tea, when Zee walked in, dressed impeccably in a plaid shirt neatly tucked into his pants, ready for the day at the office.

"Good morning," Saint greeted, their voice filled with warmth.

Zee responded with a curt "Good morning, Saint," his tone slightly distant.

As Saint poured the tea, they realized there was no milk for Zee's coffee. "I'm sorry, there's no milk, so I made black coffee instead. I hope that's okay," Saint explained, a tinge of disappointment evident in their voice.

Zee glanced at the cup of black coffee and replied, "It's fine. Once Muan Nang arrives, things will be much easier for you."

Saint's eyes widened with surprise. "Muan Nang? Is she the one who will help with the household chores?"

Zee nodded, his expression distant. "Yes, she's been taking care of things for me. She'll be able to assist you."

Slightly hurt, Saint insisted, "You don't need to worry about that, Zee. Just introduce me to the neighbors and I can take care of everything on my own."

Zee's response was tinged with a touch of distance. "I don't know anyone here, Saint. I've been living in Bangkok for a few years, and people are too busy with their own lives. Making friends requires effort, and life has become too mechanical."

Saint's mouth formed a perfect 'O' of surprise. "Oh, I didn't realize. I made so many friends back in Ratcha Buri. I believe we need to make an effort to connect with people. Life shouldn't be so impersonal."

Zee's tone remained firm. "This is not Ratcha Buri, Saint. It's Bangkok. People here mind their own business. Well, I'll see you in the evening."

As Zee left for work, the weight of his words lingered in the air. For Zee, life had always revolved around work, with minimal room for personal connections. With Saint entering his life, he was faced with the challenge of accepting someone new, alongside the haunting memories of his past that refused to let go.

Saint, on the other hand, felt a pang of sadness at the distance in Zee's demeanor. They had hoped for a deeper connection and a shared journey, but Zee's coldness reminded them that their paths were still separate. The challenge of adapting to a new city and Zee's reluctance to embrace new relationships added to Saint's sense of isolation.

The question lingered in both their minds—could Zee truly accept and welcome Saint into his life, or would the shadows of his past continue to cast a cloud over their present and future together? Uncertainty and apprehension filled the air as the day unfolded, leaving them both grappling with their own emotions and the challenges of building a life in this unfamiliar city.

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TBC..........

To all the silent and vocal readers, thank you for reading my book. :)

Have a great day....!!!!