Summary: Chimon is a member of a Thai pop boy group. He's feeling like the weakest link. Right when he begins loosing confidence a rock band guitarist, Perth, walks into his life. Perth becomes the source of his confidence to continue singing with his group and showing his the happiness he was missing in his life.
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Chimon's POV:
Sitting at the back of the bus is somehow relaxing for my nerves. We're going to perform at a music festival in a few hours which is always really cool, but lately I've been feeling second-rate compared to the other guys in the group.
The long drive from central Bangkok to Pattaya isn't helping my anxiety about my singing.
"Uhh, I'll take a short nap before we get there."
Hmmm, that nap was too short. I think I only slept for 10 minutes before the group's manager began making announcements. But I guess we're arriving anyway.
Fourth came to sit by me. When we arrived he started talking, way too much.
"Phi, did you know that Pattaya is one of my favorite cities...I'm glad we're singing here tonight...ahh and it's great because then the sun is going to go down so it's not too hot..."
His expressions were filled with so much joy and wonder. He's only three years younger than me, but sometimes he seems like a child. Anyhow, he's like a brother that I've known since birth.
"Oh and did I tell you Phi, we'll get to see my best friend there! He's going on stage with his band right after us..."
He was so animated using many hand gestures. All I could do was smile and nod along to his nonstop talking.
"Hey, Chimon and Fourth, let's get going. Were you listening, we're going to get refreshments" Khaotung said, interrupting Fourth.
Ahh, I could use some water or tea before line-up as well. "Let's go nong" I said, gesturing for him to follow me.
"Yeah, okay. Let's do it. I'll also text my buddy, I'm sure he's here already."
I wish I could just relax a bit more. Our last rehearsal took extra long all because I kept messing up my part. I know I should be used to this whole boy group type of thing, when the four other artists in group have more followers and less screw up than me, it can mess with my confidence. I know I'm the weakest link. But drinking this bottle of water should hydrate me and soothe my body a little bit.
"So, Chimon, how about we go out for a drink when we get back from this festival? It'll be a little late, but my boyfriend already reserved a private party room for the night." Khaotung asked, in a way that was more suggestive than a simple question.
"I don't know. I guess, maybe. I know it'll be fun if I'm there" I tried to joke. "But it'll be after 10pm at that time, right?"
"Yeah, but it'll be fun! I can tell you're stressed about something. You can tell me if you want. But it might also be good to just relax with the rest of the boys and have a drink."
He is really making the offer sound nice. He knows that I like to go straight home on concert nights, but he right. "Sure, i'll go along with P'Khaos suggestion."
"Nice! Owww! There's my boy!" He said as he jumps up and down a few time. "Come Chi. I know you've met, but come talk to him again."
Feeling a little awkward about Khaotung's loud voice, I slowly followed him to see First, his boyfriend. He was wearing a black denim jacket and leather pants. I can't understand how they could flaunt their relationship in front of everyone, even the press.
"Hi, babe. I missed you, this morning feels like ages ago" First said to Khao before giving him a peck on the check.
I felt even more awkward when seeing them be lovey-dovey like this.
"Oh, hi! Chimon, are you feeling pumped for your set?" First asked me, trying to be friendly.
Trying to show some false confidence, "Yeah, I think it'll be very routine for us. We have our best songs ready." I tried to sound convincing, knowing that I'm really not feeling good about my performance. Looking behind the two, I saw a couple of First's band mates approaching.
"Hey guys, we heard there's snacks over here" Ohm said, waving at us, before jogging off to the refreshments. He's always a little energetic, kind of like Fourth, except my age.
Another one of First band members was here, left by Ohm, he wore a very similar outfit to the other two. I waved at him to be friendly, but I'm not sure if I should say anything.
"Umm, so, you all are almost up right?" This guy, Perth, finally said.
"Oh I'm yeah...I think a DJ goes next and then our pop group is next" I said feeling a bit unsure of how to act. I don't know if I should act familiar with him or not. I look to the couple, for them to stop looking into each others eyes.
Perth's POV:
Chimon seems nice. Even though we know each other this is the first time we've talked. His smile has always shined amongst other people. He is just as friendly in person.
"Hi, Perth. Are you ready for your set?" Khaotung asked.
I was a little caught off guard by his sudden question. "Oh...yeah. It'll be great" I replied, looking to First's boyfriend.
"You're coming with us tonight right? To get a few drinks with some of the other guys."
"Yeah, First and Ohm begged me to join, so I guess so..."
I look between these three, Khaotung and Chimon wore similar white shirts and pastel trousers. The conversation continued, but I feel a bit awkward standing here listening. But Chimon looked to me, sharing a look that signaled that the couple was too affectionate. I silently giggled at this before someone called for those group to lineup.
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AN: A slow start, but three more parts to come.
