FALL FOR MY PROTECTOR ( Pondphuwin)

Chapter:05

"So, boys, get ready—It's time to step into the spotlight for the next two weeks of your world tour!" Mix, the band's manager, announced with a wide grin as Eclipse wrapped up their final practice for their highly anticipated comeback world tour concert with their new album.

"We're more than ready, P'Mix," Gemini said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's been forever since we've been on stage together." The other members chuckled at his enthusiasm,the atmosphere buzzing with energy.

"You're right," Phuwin added, a warm smile spreading across his face. "I've really missed our Shades." The mention of their loyal fandom made the group's camaraderie even more palpable...

"And after the World tour , I'm finally getting a break!" Sing, the youngest member, whined with a dramatic pout. "I'm so done with this three-month schedule. I just want to sleep in until noon and party!"

Laughter erupted from the group at Sing's typical youthful complaints.

"Aww, our kiddo's worn out already?" Phuwin teased, reaching over to pinch Sing's cheeks. Sing just whined in response, leaning into the touch like a younger brother seeking comfort. As the youngest, Sing was the band's darling, adored by both his fellow members and the fans alike.

Just as the laughter started to die down, Pond, who had been standing stoically by the door, spoke up, his tone as professional as ever. "Mr. Phuwin Tangsakyuen, your next appointment is at 4 PM. We should leave soon to ensure you get home with time to spare."

Phuwin turned to look at him, noting the usual cool detachment in his bodyguard's voice. Pond's expression gave nothing away, as always. Phuwin had grown accustomed to his impeccable professionalism, though he couldn't help but feel a bit frustrated by how well Pond kept his distance—especially around the other band members, who often clung to Phuwin like they couldn't get enough of him. Sing, in particular, seemed to draw out a barely noticeable tension in Pond that Phuwin couldn't quite decipher. Pond's professionalism was flawless, never letting a single emotion slip through.

The ride home was as quiet as usual. Pond's eyes stayed focused on the road, his face a mask of calm indifference. The only sounds were the soft hum of the engine and the gentle rhythm of their breathing, creating a strangely intimate tension.

Phuwin couldn't help but steal glances at him through the rearview mirror, the silence between them growing heavy , until Phuwin finally broke the silence.

"Pond, aren't you a U.S. citizen?" Phuwin asked, his voice curious.

"Yes," Pond replied curtly, not taking his eyes off the road, his tone making it clear that he wasn't keen on conversation.

"But you don't seem like one," Phuwin continued, a small, teasing smile playing on his lips,hoping to draw Pond out of his shell."You give off more of a local vibe, you know? Like, more Thai than American."

Pond said nothing in response, his expression unchanging.

"It's like he'll get killed if he answers a single question," Phuwin muttered under his breath, rolling his eyes as he turned to stare out the window.

"It's not about that," Pond finally replied, his voice calm but firm. "I don't discuss personal matters with clients."

The formal response made Phuwin flinch, the distance between them suddenly feeling much wider. "I see," Phuwin said, his tone now laced with mockery. "Got it, Mr. Pond Naravit Lertratkosum." He threw a side glance at Pond, but the bodyguard's expression didn't waver, as if he hadn't heard Phuwin at all.

"My agency really sent me a robot for a bodyguard," Phuwin thought to himself, frustration simmering just beneath the surface. "Every time I try to be friendly, he acts like I am some kind of nuisance."