Against the Tide

Chapter 9: Unexpected Allies

The next few days passed in a blur of whispered conversations and sidelong glances. Daou and Offroad remained steadfast, their relationship gradually becoming a new normal. Their friends continued to support them, and while some classmates were indifferent or curious, others weren't as accepting.

One afternoon, Daou and Offroad were walking to their next class when they were approached by Chai and Lek, two students who had often been vocal critics of anything that deviated from the norm.

"Hey, Daou, Offroad," Chai called out, his tone deceptively friendly. "Heard the news. Congrats, I guess."

Offroad narrowed his eyes, sensing the underlying hostility. "Thanks, Chai. Something you want to say?"

Chai exchanged a glance with Lek before speaking. "Just curious how long this little fling is going to last. You know, before you both realize it’s a mistake."

Daou stepped forward, his expression hardening. "It’s not a fling. We’re serious about each other, and we don’t need your approval."

Lek sneered. "Whatever you say. Just don’t expect everyone to be as supportive as your little fan club."

Offroad opened his mouth to retort, but Daou placed a calming hand on his arm. "Let it go," he murmured. "They’re not worth it."

Chai and Lek walked away, snickering. Offroad shook his head in frustration. "I hate people like that. Why can’t they just mind their own business?"

Daou sighed. "Some people will always have something to say. We just have to focus on us and the people who care about us."

Their resolve was tested again that evening during a group study session in the library. Daou, Offroad, Ken, and Nari were reviewing their notes when Pim and Mint joined them, their expressions unusually serious.

"We need to talk," Pim said, glancing around to make sure no one was eavesdropping. "We’ve heard some rumors going around. Apparently, Chai and Lek are planning something to embarrass you two."

Offroad tensed. "What kind of something?"

Mint looked worried. "They’re trying to dig up dirt on you, anything they can use to turn people against you or make you look bad. We thought you should know."

Daou felt a surge of anger but managed to keep his voice calm. "Thanks for the heads-up. We’ll be careful."

Ken nodded. "And we’ll keep an eye out too. You’ve got more friends than you think."

Nari’s eyes flashed with determination. "We won’t let them get away with this. We’ll stand by you."

The support from their friends strengthened Daou and Offroad’s resolve. That night, as they walked back to their dorms, Daou squeezed Offroad’s hand. "We’ll get through this. Together."

Offroad smiled, though his eyes were troubled. "I know. It’s just hard not to let it get to me."

Daou stopped walking and turned to face Offroad, his expression earnest. "Listen, I’ve dealt with pressure my whole life. People always expect me to be perfect. But you’ve shown me that it’s okay to be real, to be myself. We’re stronger together, and we’ll prove them wrong."

Offroad’s eyes softened. "You’re right. Thank you, Daou."

As they parted ways for the night, Daou couldn’t shake the feeling of unease. He knew they were in for a rough time, but he was determined to protect what they had built.

The next day, rumors continued to swirl, but Daou and Offroad remained focused on their classes and their friends. They knew they had to keep their heads held high, showing everyone that their relationship was strong and unbreakable.

In a surprising turn of events, they found an unexpected ally in Thit, a quiet student who rarely got involved in school politics. He approached them during lunch, his expression serious.

"I heard what Chai and Lek are planning," Thit said, his voice low. "I don’t like bullies. If you need any help, I’m here."

Daou and Offroad exchanged a grateful glance. "Thank you, Thit," Daou said. "We appreciate it."

Thit nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Just remember, not everyone is against you. Some of us are rooting for you."

As Thit walked away, Daou felt a renewed sense of hope. With their friends by their side and new allies emerging, he knew they could face whatever challenges came their way. The road ahead was uncertain, but together, they were ready to navigate it, determined to prove that love and resilience could overcome any obstacle.