Mister Sunshine

Subjective

Tin entered his home with a smile on his face, feeling happy and content. To his delight, he found Can and Tee sitting on the floor in front of the TV, engrossed in a racing game. It was the long-awaited Saturday, the day they had promised to spend together. Although Tin had been called into work for a short period, he was relieved that it was only for half an hour.

Finally, he could fulfill his promise to take Can out. Some might find it unusual that their plans revolved around the young boy, but Tin knew that Can would always be an important part of their lives. Can had even mentioned that it didn't matter if they didn't go to fancy restaurants; a trip to the zoo and a visit to a fast food place would be just as enjoyable. However, Tin wanted to give Can something extraordinary later on. He believed that Can deserved the best, and he was determined to make it happen.

"Welcome home." Can and Tee exclaimed simultaneously, their eyes glued to the game while their bodies swayed in unison, mirroring the movements on the screen. The pixelated cars screeched as they turned the bend, and Tin couldn't help but stifle a chuckle at the adorable synchrony between the two. Tee had been imitating Can more frequently ever since Tin started taking care of him, a clear indication of the boy's fondness for him.

Prior to Can entering their lives, Tee had been a reserved and timid kid, seldom showcasing his abilities or allowing himself to stand out. The teachers had implied that it was his fault. Despite hating it, Tee knew deep down that it was right. Ever since becoming a judge, Tin's life had been incredibly busy, leaving him with little time for Tee. Although Tee never complained, Can's consistent support and encouragement had a significant impact on Tee's academic progress.

Dating had always been a bit awkward for them, knowing that if things didn't work out, Tee would be hurt too. Tin pushed away those negative thoughts, confident that their relationship was strong and their feelings for each other were genuine.

"I'm home. Are you ready?"

"Hold on a sec... There we go! Look at you, almost had me beat, big little man!" Can exclaimed with a wide grin, reaching over to tousle Tee's hair. Tee's initial disappointment melted away, replaced by a bright, happy smile and twinkling eyes as he cheered.

"You really think so, P'Can?!"

"Yup, you almost had me at the end there. Just a little more and you would have won. You're awesome Tee." Can chuckled as Tee rose to his feet and performed a quirky victory dance. It seemed as though Tee had emerged victorious, even though he had only come close. Tin figured that being near his idol was satisfaction enough for his son.

"Well done, Tee." Can chuckled as he pressed a few buttons on the control pad, causing the TV to go blank. The air crackled with the silence that now enveloped the room. The silences had become a common occurrence in their lives lately, filled with awkward small talk and blushing. However, Tin was determined to change that after their date today.

As Can gazed up at the entrance of the massive zoo, a surge of excitement coursed through him, mirroring the same enthusiasm Tee had shown ever since they mentioned their zoo visit. It was a novel experience for Can, one he couldn't recall ever sharing with his own parents.

Yet, even if he had, the thrill would still be present, for this was his inaugural date with the man who had captured his heart for longer than he could fathom. Can's attention shifted from the sign above them to Tin, only to be taken aback and slightly embarrassed to discover the man gazing back at him, a warm smile adorning his face.

"Wha-What?" With a questioning gaze, they scanned the area in search of a parking spot as close to the zoo as they could get. Despite it being the middle of the day on a weekend, the car park was nearly packed, indicating the popularity of the place. Eventually, they had no choice but to settle for parking near the gates.

Tin inquired, "I'm curious, who's more thrilled about this - you or Tee? Have you visited the zoo before?" Can unfastened his seatbelt and gave a half-hearted shake of his head combined with a shrug.

"You know, I'm not quite sure...I can't recall if I have ever done that before. But... there's so much to look forward to, right Tee?" He inquired, glancing at Tee through the rearview mirror. Tee was bubbling with excitement in the backseat, examining the streamers and flyers adorned with images of tigers and lions. The young boy had been talking about these animals all day, and he was well aware that their first stop would be at the zoo.

Tee's excitement filled the air as he exclaimed, "Yes! The tigers and lions!" His voice echoed through the car, causing both adults to burst into laughter before stepping out. Despite it being the least romantic date idea for their first outing, it was perfect for them. Can felt a surge of happiness as a small hand tightly held onto his, swinging it back and forth while he also held onto Tin's hand. Tee continued to chatter happily as they strolled towards the entrance, embracing the long distance walk.

Tee chatted away excitedly about the animals, oblivious to the bewildered glances the woman behind the counter shot at the trio. Can, on the other hand, met her gaze head-on, refusing to let any embarrassment or shame creep in.

With a sense of pride swelling in his chest, he accepted the ticket, knowing he was here with Tin. As they passed through the turnstile gates and entered the zoo's front area, Can's smile widened upon spotting a shiny black signpost against the backdrop of the blue sky. It pointed in various directions, but his eyes lit up when he saw the one leading to the majestic large cats.

"Look, your lions and tigers are just down this path," he exclaimed, gesturing with his finger towards a long and winding trail. Although it appeared to be the most arduous route to the majestic creatures Tee yearned to witness, it promised the most breathtaking view of all the animals. "Shall we embark on this adventure?"

"Absolutely!" Tin and Tee chimed in unison, their voices harmonizing so perfectly that Can couldn't help but burst into laughter, his heart brimming with joy. The trio proceeded down the path, with Tee growing increasingly excited about a cage full of playful monkeys.

"I apologize if this isn't the most romantic first date. " Tin whispered, while Tee made funny faces at the monkeys, who responded with loud chatter. Can shook his head, offering a warm smile and a shrug.

"Romance is subjective. As long as I'm with you, even a park would have been perfect."

*** to be continued ***