You & Me [Completed]

Arthit

I just watched quietly as Lam drank his beer and chatted with Park and Aim. Just then, some of the girls who always tried to hit on us came by this time. I sighed inwardly as I knew this may create some trouble again.

However, just as they were approaching, I felt Lam subconsciously move towards me. He just edged closer to me and continued chatting. I didn't say anything and just looked at the renewed closeness between us.

The girls stopped by as usual, but this time, before they could even open their mouth to hit on Lam, I just stood up. Everyone looked at me, surprised. The girls looked at me and then at Lam. However, they just smiled, said their hellos, and left. That was new. I was not expecting that.

The boys all looked at me quizzically, and I just muttered I needed the restroom before fleeing. To be honest, I was about to tell the girls off, but since they did not attempt anything, I guess me standing up was uncalled for. I washed my hands and left the toilet. I bumped into Lam midway, who asked me if he could speak to me. I nodded, and we headed out.

We stood near the smoking corner.

"Is it OK for me to smoke, P?"

"Go on ahead. It's all good."

Lam nodded as he lit his cigarette and took a puff.

"I.. thank you, P, for earlier."

"Hmm? What did I do?"

"I know you stood up to tell them off. I could tell by your protective stance. I am grateful for it."

I fell silent, wondering if I should agree or not. However, I was also quite surprised that Lam managed to read me well. I just nodded, opting for silence as my answer.

"Is that all? If it is, I get going then."

Lam looked at me stunned.

"I was hoping we could chat a bit more. Is it not possible?

"I don't think there is anything for us to chat about, Lam. You are my junior, and we do not share the same interests or friend circles."

"What..what.. if I wanted..to be your friend?"

I looked at Lam, slightly stricken. He wanted that? But the logic in me kicked in; automatically wanting to protect myself. However, before I could open my mouth; all Lam said was; "Think about it for a bit P before rejecting me. I know I did wrong, but I really want to also make up for it. And despite everything, your first response was to look out for me. And that made me realize what a bigger jerk I have been."

Before I could say anything else, he said he would see me inside and went off, leaving me to be engulfed in my own. thoughts.