Flicker (BossNoeul AU)

Chapter 10

In the past few days, time seemed to fly by quickly. Boss Chaikamon had been a constant presence in Noeul's life, staying by his side throughout the week. He cooked meals for them, drove Noeul to work, and picked him up afterward, making Noeul feel cherished and special. It was as if Boss Chaikamon was making up for the weeks he had been absent, showering Noeul with attention and care. Noeul was particularly touched by the gestures, especially when Boss Chaikamon brought back a plethora of gifts from his overseas trips. Among them, the Ultraman figurine stood out the most, eliciting a smile from Noeul and further endearing Boss Chaikamon to him.

When questioned about the figurine, Boss Chaikamon simply replied, "I noticed you had one in your nightstand, so I thought you might like another." It warmed Noeul's heart to think that Boss Chaikamon had been paying attention to his likes and interests all along. This thoughtful gesture, along with others like buying his favorite sweets and anticipating his preferences, made Noeul feel deeply appreciated. Yet, amidst the joy, Noeul couldn't shake off a twinge of guilt. While Boss Chaikamon seemed to know so much about him, Noeul realized he didn't know much about Boss Chaikamon's own likes and dislikes. Nevertheless, their time together was filled with shared moments and discoveries, making each day more special than the last.

One thing that was particularly surprising Noeul was Boss Chaikamon's culinary skills. From the first day he stayed at Noeul's apartment, Boss Chaikamon showcased his talent in the kitchen, preparing delicious meals that Noeul would miss once he returned to work.

"I swear, you're busier than I am," Boss Chaikamon remarked as he packed the food for Noeul.

Looking forward to his day off together, Noeul suggested, "I have tomorrow off. We could go out and eat like we planned." As he packed the food into his backpack.

"I know it's just that the days off I've spent here with you feel like they've amounted to nothing. Either you're at your lectures or at your part-time job in the hospital. It's just... it feels like I've been alone this whole week. I pick you up at 5 am, and then you sleep until 11 am. After that, you go to school for your lectures, and... you're just so busy, Eul. I've been missing you even when I'm staying here." A hint of sadness tinged Boss Chaikamon's voice as he expressed his feelings. Noeul didn't know what to say, because it was undeniably true. He was just so busy.

"I'm sorry," was all Noeul could manage to say in response.

"I'm not complaining, Eul. I'm just worried about you. You can't even get enough sleep because of your working schedule," Boss said sincerely as he approached Noeul and gently cupped his face.

Boss had been taken aback by Noeul's grueling schedule during the first few days he stayed by his side. Noeul would work from 1 pm to 4 pm, and then his part-time job would start at 9 pm and end at 5 am the next morning. Even Boss's work in the industry wasn't as demanding as Noeul's.

"You don't need to worry. I've told you, I'm used to it by now," Noeul reassured him with a faint smile.

"Just because you're used to it doesn't mean it's okay, Eul," Boss reminded him softly, planting a kiss on his forehead, which made Noeul pout playfully.

"Coming from a celebrity like you?" Noeul teased.

"Yes, your work schedule is more demanding than mine," Boss countered with a gentle smile.

"Okay, okay. I only have two weeks left on my contract at the hospital, so you need not worry," Noeul reassured Boss as he glanced at the time on his wristwatch. "I really need to go now, Boss. I'll be late," he continued, a sense of urgency creeping into his voice.

"Alright, let's head out," Boss responded, understanding the need for Noeul to leave.

As they prepared to depart, Noeul couldn't shake the feeling at what Boss had said.He was so accustomed to being constantly busy that he realized he hardly had a life outside of work. Reflecting on it now, he could only recall spending time at his aunt's restaurant, pitching in to help whenever he could. Even then, those moments were rare and fleeting amidst his packed schedule. Noeul couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have more time for himself, to explore his interests and passions beyond the confines of his demanding work life.