PERFECT SEASON

Chapter 4

The following days were a blur for Win as he attempted to balance his growing connection with Bright and the heavy shadows of grief that lingered over him. He found himself mulling over their last encounter, where Bright's defenses had cracked ever so slightly, revealing a glimpse of the turmoil beneath his polished exterior. Win could sense that Bright was fighting battles unseen, struggles that mirrored his own.

Win's life had taken a significant turn since returning to Thailand, and he was gradually starting to find comfort in the chaotic routine of his days. His meetings with Saint became more frequent, often venturing out for dinners or casual outings that, while initially uncomfortable, were slowly beginning to fill the void left by Amanda and Josh's absence. But it was the moments spent with Bright that intrigued him the most, even if they often ended in tension.

One rainy afternoon, as the skies opened up over Bangkok, Win found himself wandering the city, the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers filling the air. He sought refuge in a quaint café tucked away in a quiet alley, its ambiance warm and inviting. Settling into a corner table, he ordered a cup of tea, allowing the comforting warmth to seep into his bones.

As he sipped his drink, he pulled out his phone, contemplating whether to text Bright. It had been a few days since they last saw each other, and despite the tension that often colored their interactions, Win felt a pull toward the enigmatic billionaire. He hesitated, pondering the balance between reaching out and giving Bright the space he seemed to need.

Just as he was about to put his phone away, it buzzed, and he glanced at the screen to find a message from Bright.

Bright: Hey. Are you free? I could use a distraction.

Win's heart raced at the thought of seeing Bright again. He quickly typed a response.

Win: I'm at that café on Charoen Krung Road. Care to join?

Within moments, Bright replied.

Bright: Be there in 15.

The anticipation surged through Win as he waited, his mind racing with possibilities. What would they talk about this time? Would they tiptoe around the heavy emotions that loomed between them, or would they finally confront the pain that haunted them both?

When Bright arrived, he was dressed casually in dark jeans and a fitted black shirt that showcased his athletic build. Despite the rain-soaked streets, he exuded an air of confidence that was hard to ignore. Win stood to greet him, and their eyes locked for a brief moment—a silent acknowledgment of the uncharted territory they were about to navigate.

"Thanks for coming," Win said, gesturing for Bright to sit across from him.

Bright nodded, his expression a mix of gratitude and guardedness. "I needed a break from the chaos."

"Tell me about it," Win replied, sensing the underlying tension in Bright's voice. "The media won't let you breathe, will they?"

Bright sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's like a never-ending cycle of speculation and scrutiny. Sometimes I wish I could just be... normal."

Win leaned forward, intrigued by the admission. "What does 'normal' look like for you?"

Bright's gaze drifted to the window, watching the rain cascade down the glass. "I don't even know anymore. I used to think it was all about success—building my brand, gaining recognition. But now... it feels hollow."

Win's heart ached at the vulnerability in Bright's admission. "I get that," he replied softly. "After losing my family, I've often found myself questioning what it all means. Fame? Success? It doesn't bring the people we love back."