Farewell, Doctor.

Unfelt to Discern

Oliver, half-headed, stirred in the middle of his sleep. "Hey... Thanks for answering my call." Jake ringed his friend's. "I know it's 2AM in the morning but I can't sleep. I actually found this place online, and I wonder if you want to tag along tomorrow?" He added. But the other line is dead silent.

"I know you'd also want to take pictures there." Jake insisted.

"Okay fine. If it turns I don't like the place, then you owe me one." The other line he heard, ensuing a tone that signals the line had been downed.

Following hours, they managed to drive into a lesser-known part of Bangkok, a neighborhood hidden away from the usual tourist paths, known for its vibrant street art and small, winding alleys. The morning was bright and clear, a perfect backdrop for an adventure.

As they ventured into the heart of this hidden neighborhood, the streets narrowed, and the walls around them blossomed with graffiti—each mural telling a story of the city's dreams and struggles. Oliver, with his camera slung over his shoulder, captured every color and shadow, his eyes, appreciating the artistry and the stories they told.

"Look at this one," Oliver pointed to a large mural of a Phoenix rising from ashes. "It's about rebirth, starting anew. It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Jake nodded, impressed. "It makes you think about your own life, the changes, and the new beginnings." The mural sparked their first deep conversation of the day.

They found a quiet spot at a nearby café, a little place with old wooden chairs and tables that looked like they could tell stories of their own. As they sipped on delightful coffee, the conversation flowed from dreams, to fears, and aspirations.

Oliver shared his dream of one day holding a photo exhibition in a renowned gallery, showcasing the lives and stories of the people he had met through his travels. His eyes lit up as he talked about his passion for capturing moments that most people overlooked.

"What about you, Jake? What's your big dream?" Oliver asked, genuinely interested.

Jake took a moment, stirring his coffee slowly. "I've always wanted to do more than just a clinic vet. I dream of working with wildlife, maybe in conservation. But I'm also scared of stepping out of what I know, the routine I'm so used to."

Oliver nodded, understanding the fear that is to be known. "I know it's daunting, but look at you now, exploring new parts of the city, meeting new people. It's 'your' first step towards that dream."

Their conversation deepened, and they discussed the fears that held them back and the aspirations that drove them forward. Jake felt a comfort with Oliver that he hadn't felt with many others. Oliver's easy nature and open heart made it easy to talk, to share thoughts Jake usually kept to himself.

As the day progressed, they continued their adventure. They meandered through the alleys, each turn bringing new sights—a group of children playing native sports; an old woman selling handmade crafts; the smell of street food wafting through the air. Those simple scenes of daily life added richness to their adventure, filling the spaces between their conversations.

At one point, they stopped by a street vendor, the aroma of Pad Thai filling the air. As they ate, they shared stories of their childhoods, their families, and the journeys that had brought them to where they were now. Each story brought them closer, weaving their lives together through shared experiences and mutual understanding.

The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the city. They found themselves at a small park, the last stop on their adventure. Sitting on a bench under an old, sprawling tree, they watched as the sky turned from blue to hues of orange and pink.

"This was a good day!" Jake said, a contented smile spreading across his face.

"It was," Oliver agreed. "And it's just the start, right? There are so many more places to see, so many more conversations to have."

Jake nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation for the future. "I'm glad I met you, Oliver. Today was... it was exactly what I needed."

Their first adventure together had been a success, not just in exploring a hidden part of Bangkok but in discovering the ease and comfort of their growing friendship. As they walked back to the main road, the city lights began to flicker on, illuminating the path ahead.

As they parted ways that evening, both felt a sense of fulfillment and the quiet excitement of anticipation for the many adventures that lay ahead. Jake watched Oliver walk away, a strange warmth spreading in his chest. The day had been more than just a distraction—it had been a revelation. As he headed home, he found himself thinking about Oliver more than he expected, the memories of their conversations lingering in his mind like a pleasant echo.

While Oliver, too, felt a connection he couldn't quite explain. He looked back at the moments they had shared and realized that Jake's presence had added a new dimension to his life. The thought of their next outing brought a smile to his face, and he felt a flutter of excitement at the possibilities that lay ahead.