Flicker (BossNoeul AU)

Chapter 8

(Chapter contains a slightly mature scene***)

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Days had passed since the dinner "date" between Boss and Noeul, and someone had been incessantly pestering Noeul about it ever since-his friend, Pete.

"Just tell me what happened?" Pete pleaded for what felt like the hundredth time. Noeul's response remained unchanged: "I told you, we ate dinner and left."

No matter how many times Pete asked, Noeul was determined to keep the details of the evening to himself, unwilling to divulge the intricacies of his time with Boss Chaikamon.

It's not that Noeul didn't want to confide in Pete about his relationship with Boss Chaikamon, but Boss had made it clear that discretion was essential. As a celebrity, Boss faced unique challenges, and he didn't want to complicate things by publicizing their situation. Noeul understood the burden and respected Boss's wishes, even though it left him feeling conflicted.

While part of him longed to share his happiness with his friend, another part recognized the need for secrecy. He didn't want to be kept hidden away, but he also didn't want to be thrust into the messy limelight. So, despite the pang of pain and concern that troubled him, Noeul agreed to keep their relationship under wraps, hoping that it would protect them both from unwanted scrutiny and judgment.

Noeul understood that it wasn't just Boss Chaikamon's image that was at stake, but also the potential impact on his career if their relationship was revealed. In an industry where public perception could make or break a career, being in a same-gender relationship could have significant ramifications for Boss's reputation and professional opportunities. Noeul couldn't bear the thought of jeopardizing all that Boss had worked so hard to achieve.

As much as he longed for the freedom to openly embrace their relationship, Noeul couldn't ignore the harsh reality of the world they lived in. The fear of backlash, judgment, and discrimination weighed heavily on his mind, adding another layer of complexity to their already complicated situation. So, despite his own desires, Noeul remained committed to maintaining the secrecy of their relationship, knowing that it was the best way to protect Boss's career and their own happiness, even if it meant sacrificing his own.

"I don't believe that's all that happened," Pete insisted, his tone firm as he leaned forward, eyes fixed on his friend. "There's a different aura surrounding you ever since that night you had dinner with him."

Noeul, who had been casually organizing the papers on his table, shrugged nonchalantly, trying to avoid the conversation as much as possible.

"Like an aura of being in love," Pete concluded, his expression scrutinizing.

Noeul couldn't help but burst into laughter at Pete's observation, the sound echoing through the room as he shook his head in amusement.

"Shut the heck up, Pete. In love, my face," Noeul retorted, shaking his head in disbelief. He had finished organizing the papers and was ready to leave the administrative office.

"I swear to God, Noeul. You had this glow. I can't quite put my finger on it, but you really look different, no joke," Pete persisted as they began to walk out of the office, both holding their helmets in hand.

"Yeah, yeah, whatever you say, Pete," Noeul replied dismissively, waving off his friend's observations with a casual shrug.

"But just tell me what happened, I won't tell a soul," Pete continued to pester his friend, his curiosity still not satisfied. They continued to walk towards the parking lot, with Pete's persistent questioning filling the air.

However, their conversation was abruptly interrupted by the ringing of Noeul's phone. He stopped midway and fished his phone out of his pocket, a sense of unease creeping over him as he saw the caller ID.