Under the Same Umbrella ☔ : A Tale of Love

Chapter 21: A Smile Worth Waiting For

Boss's heart raced with worry as Forth briefed him on what had transpired the previous night, and how Noeul had learned the truth, feeling devastated and guilty. The thought of Noeul in distress tore at Boss's heartstrings, filling him with a deep sense of remorse.

Rushing to Peat for confirmation, Boss's anxiety mounted when he learned that Noeul was on leave due to illness. Determined to make things right, he quickly grabbed his car keys and sped towards Noeul's house.

During the drive, Boss's mind raced with thoughts of how to comfort Noeul. He brainstormed ways to reassure him, to let him know that he wasn't to blame, and that their bond was stronger than any misunderstanding.
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As Chaikamon stands near the door, Noeul's shocked expression catches his attention. Noeul struggles to stand properly,

Noeul: "Phi, you're here."

Worry fills Boss's voice as he notices Noeul's swollen eyes, sweaty face, and evident fever. He rushes to Noeul, embracing him tightly.

Boss: "What happened, Noeul?"

Noeul, overwhelmed by the display of affection, feels his emotions surge. Tears well up in his eyes as he clings to Chaikamon's shirt for support.

Noeul: "Ah, Phi, I'm okay, just a fever."

Boss: "Then why didn't you tell me, huh? you said you were okay and just had some work and a little headache."

Eul looks down, attempting to compose himself while struggling to remain standing.

Noeul: "Oh, that... Actually, I knew you would be worried, so I didn't say much."

Boss lifted Noeul gently and carried him in his arms, his worry evident in his actions. Slowly, he laid Noeul down on the bed, his words filled with concern.

Boss: "How many times do I have to tell you, don't hide anything from me, especially when you're unwell.. "

Noeul, managing to speak despite the fever, attempted to control his emotions.

Noeul: "It's okay, Phi, I can take care of myself. And why are you here? You should be in the office now. And how do you know my number and address, huh?"

Boss: "It's no big deal, Noeul. I've always had your number; I just didn't call you. And I knew where you stay. Today, I asked Peat, and he told me you're on leave. I heard your voice on the call and knew you were sick, so I came here."

Noeul: "But Phi, Please go to office na, I can manage here." He seems genuinely worried.

Boss spoke with a reassuring tone, "I have my people there, and my secretary to handle my work. If any urgent matter arises, they'll call me. So, you don't need to worry. Nothing is more important than you... And tell me, have you taken your medicine?" He asked, patting Noeul's head softly.

Noeul: "Oh yes, Phi. I've taken a painkiller."

Boss: "And breakfast?"

Noeul looked down, shaking his head in response, said " No phi,"

Boss: "See, You always say, 'I can take care of myself,' and yet you didn't have anything since morning and took medicine on an empty stomach... Wait here."

He puts a blanket over Noeul, ready to go to the kitchen to prepare something. As he's about to leave, Noeul grabs his hand.

Noeul: "Phi..." His voice is filled with emotion.

Boss turns back, looking at him with concern.

Noeul: "Thank you..." He whispers, his eyes showing gratitude and vulnerability.