Mister Sunshine

Feelings For Me

Can fidgeted anxiously on the couch, pondering how a perceptive five-year-old had effortlessly seen through his facade. Deep down, he acknowledged that it was merely the unadulterated innocence of a bewildered child speaking. Saifah had expressed the same sentiment yesterday, as Can had unintentionally assumed a maternal role, causing Tee's confusion. However, it was now plausible that Tin might desire to establish a clear boundary between their professional and personal lives, leading to a potential distancing. If that were the case, Can would empathize entirely, although it would undoubtedly shatter his heart.

"Are you alright?" Tin inquired as he returned from the bedroom. Can nodded slowly, biting his lower lip. "Tee mentioned mommies and daddies at school, and he got a bit mixed up because we're like a family... And... He... He realized that I have feelings for you... I'm sorry..."

"You...Have...Feelings...For...Me?" Can stuttered as he tried to process what he was seeing. His gaze shifted to the small boy peeking out from behind his father's legs. The child's chubby cheeks were flushed, his eyes sparkling, and a wide smile gracing his face. Tin appeared just as anxious as his son, confirming to Can that this moment was indeed happening. It was the realization of a lifelong dream. Can slowly reached down, pinching his leg to make sure it wasn't all just a figment of his imagination. "Mr. Medthanan...You...You don't have to say...I..."

"Tee will you go and get your school clothes ready please while Can and I talk?" Tin's voice exuded a confidence that rivaled his courtroom demeanor, yet a flicker of anxiety danced in his eyes, a sight that Can had never witnessed until now.

"Okay, Daddy..." Tee cheerfully rushed back to his bedroom, closing the door with a click, as Can and Tin exchanged nervous glances, feeling their hearts race in their chests. Can let out a slow sigh, attempting to calm the butterflies in his stomach, uncertain of what was about to unfold.

"Mr. Medthanan, I'm sorry that Tee got confused but you don't have to confess..." With a deliberate slowness, he uttered the words, reluctant to prolong the agony any further, fully aware that the weight of anticipation was almost unbearable. "I will understand..."

"I must admit, this might not be the most opportune moment, and honestly, I never anticipated confessing this to you... However, my son insisted that I should, and I apologize, but he was correct. I do have deep feelings for you, and I sincerely hope that this revelation doesn't alter our relationship in any way."

"You...Have feelings for me?" Can repeated once more, feeling desperate to comprehend the situation, as he stared at Tin with his heart now pounding in his throat, pressing against his Adam's apple and beating softly. The sensation was unpleasant, and he hoped fervently that it would disappear, giving him a moment to catch his breath. "Why?"

"Why? Because...You're cute, funny, smart, and efficient...You love Tee like he was your own...You understand me better than anyone I've ever met..." Tin whispered letting out a strained little laugh "I can't find a single excuse not to have feelings for you... However, I realize that you may not feel the same way about me, but I made a promise to Tee that I would confess my feelings to you."

"I do...I...Have feelings...Too...You...I do..."

Tin was taken aback by the shocking revelation that Can had just made, unable to comprehend what he had just heard. Can's face turned red and he fidgeted nervously, making Tin realize the seriousness of the situation. With a lump in his throat, Tin reached out his hand to gently touch Can's warm cheek. It was a gesture filled with emotion, causing his heart to race in his chest. Can gasped softly and smiled, prompting Tin to move even closer.

"Do you mean in the same way that I do?" He asked, somewhat proud that his voice sounded normal, his fingers continuing to move over the cheek that was barely touched with hair.