Unveiling the Past
The next morning, Bee awoke feeling more rested than he had in days. The events of the previous days still lingered in his mind, but Lee’s reassurances had given him a newfound sense of security. As he dressed and prepared for the day, Bee decided that he needed to learn more about Lee’s world—about the dangers that had brought them to this point.
After breakfast, Lee found Bee in the library, leafing through a book. Lee had always been drawn to this room; it was a sanctuary of knowledge, a place where he could momentarily escape the pressures of his life. Today, however, his mind was focused on Bee.
"Good morning," Lee greeted, walking over to join him.
"Morning," Bee replied, closing the book he’d been pretending to read. "I’ve been thinking, Lee. I want to know more about your life—about what you’re dealing with."
Lee’s expression darkened slightly, though he wasn’t surprised by Bee’s request. "Are you sure, Bee? It’s not an easy story to tell.
"Bee nodded, his resolve firm. "I need to understand, Lee. If I’m going to be a part of your life, I need to know what I’m up against.
"Lee sighed, taking a seat beside Bee. For a moment, he was silent, as if gathering his thoughts. "I didn’t always have this life," he began. "I wasn’t born into wealth. My parents worked hard to provide for us, but it was never easy. When I was young, I made a promise to myself that I would do whatever it took to create a better life for them—for myself.
"Bee listened intently, sensing that this was a story Lee didn’t often share."
I started from the bottom," Lee continued, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "I worked hard, took risks, and eventually, I made a name for myself. But with success came enemies—people who wanted to take what I had built. I’ve had to make difficult decisions, some of which I’m not proud of.
But it was all to protect the life I’ve created."Bee’s heart ached as he listened to Lee’s story. He had always seen Lee as this confident, almost untouchable figure, but now he was beginning to understand the weight that Lee carried."And now," Lee said, his voice softening as he looked at Bee, "you’re a part of that life. That means you’re also a potential target for those who want to hurt me. That’s why I’m so protective of you, Bee. I can’t bear the thought of anything happening to you because of me.
"Bee reached out, placing his hand on Lee’s. "I’m not going anywhere, Lee. I’m scared, but I want to be here with you. We’ll face this together."
Lee’s expression softened, and he gave Bee’s hand a gentle squeeze. "Thank you, Bee. That means more to me than you know."
__________________________________Tay and Ming's Connection Deepens
Meanwhile, Tay found himself thinking about Ming more often than he cared to admit. Since their conversation by the river, Tay had sensed that Ming was starting to open up, and it only made Tay more determined to be there for him.
That afternoon, Tay decided to surprise Ming by visiting him at work. He knew it was a risk, given Ming’s high-pressure job, but Tay was willing to take it if it meant spending more time with him.
When Tay arrived at Lee’s estate, he was greeted by the security team, who recognized him from his previous visits. They escorted him to the main office, where Ming was reviewing some documents.
Ming looked up in surprise as Tay entered. "Tay? What are you doing here?"
Tay smiled, holding up a bag of food. "I thought you might be hungry. Do you have time for a quick break?"
YOU ARE READING
Beneath the Billionaire's Gaze
RomanceIn the bustling city of Bangkok, a chance encounter brings together two people from completely different worlds. Lee, a 25-year-old billionaire known for his mysterious and stoic nature, meets Bee, an 18-year-old university student with a bright and...