Under the Same Umbrella ☔ : A Tale of Love

Chapter 22 : A Clash of Emotions and Sweet Resolutions

Noeul breezed into the office, his usual vibrant self restored. His smile radiated warmth as he greeted his colleagues, exchanging light banter and catching up with everyone. Chaikamon feel relieved to see him back in his element.

Their paths crossed briefly during the meeting, exchanging nods of acknowledgment. But it was after the meeting, as Chaikamon headed towards his chamber, that he witnessed something heartening.

A group of seniors had gathered around Noeul and Peat near their workspaces, showering them with praise and appreciation for their recent contributions.

Noeul and Peat humbly accepted the accolades, expressing their gratitude with genuine smiles. It was a moment that underscored the value of hard work and dedication, leaving Chaikamon feeling proud of their accomplishments.

As Chaikamon watched Noeul and Somchai interact, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy. The way Somchai gazed at Noeul, with such warmth and sincerity, hinted at a bond that went beyond mere professional admiration. And Noeul, for his part, seemed to effortlessly return the friendliness, their conversation flowing smoothly.

Feeling a surge of discomfort, Chaikamon reluctantly tore his gaze away and hurried inside his office, trying to shake off the unsettling emotions. However, the image of Noeul's easy camaraderie with Somchai lingered in his mind, casting a shadow over his thoughts as he tried to focus on his work. The image of Somchai's friendly gestures towards Noeul, patting his shoulder and head while they conversed, only fueled Chaikamon's growing anger and insecurity.

Unable to shake off the unsettling feelings, Chaikamon finally closed the window, hoping to shut out the lingering thoughts. However, the tension continued , making it impossible to concentrate.

After some time, Chaikamon decided to address the issue directly. He called Noeul into his office under the guise of discussing some work matters, but deep down, he knew he needed to confront the situation that was bothering him.

Inside his office, the atmosphere was tense as he struggled to find the right words to express his feelings to Noeul. When Noeul entered, he noticed the somber expression on Chaikamon's face and couldn't help but feel a pang of confusion.

Noeul: "phi, you wanted to see me?"

Chaikamon hesitated for a moment before finally speaking up, his voice tinged with a mix of frustration and insecurity.

Boss: "What were you doing over there, Noeul?"

Noeul: "Just getting some work done, phi."

Boss: "I could see from here that you weren't working, but rather having a little chat with your pals."

Noeul, taken aback by Boss's sudden shift in tone, asked, "What's going on, phi? Do you have something on your mind?"

Boss: "No big deal, just noticed you hanging out with those seniors, so I thought I'd ask."

Noeul: "Oh, they were just showing some appreciation for Peat and me."

Boss: "Is that so? Then why was he the last one to leave after everyone else?"

Noeul: "Who, Somchai? He's always been friendly and helpful with my work."

Boss: "Well, from where I'm standing, it looks like there's more to it than just friendship or admiration. The way he looks at you, it's like there's something else there."

Noeul, surprised by Boss's observation, replied, "What are you talking about, phi? He's just showing appreciation for both me and Peat. Can't you see that?"

Boss: "Then why was he touching you only? Patting your head, your shoulder... Seems like he has a crush on you."

Noeul, trying to diffuse the situation, smiled and said,