𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐬 || 𝐏𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐩𝐡𝐮𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐟

28

The sun shone bright over the beach, casting a warm glow across the white sand and sparkling ocean. Everything was in place for the big day—the altar adorned with fresh flowers, the chairs neatly arranged, and the sound of soft music playing in the background. But despite the beauty of the setting, there was an underlying tension, a quiet bitterness that lingered in the air, a result of the events leading up to this moment.

Earth stood off to the side, watching as guests began to fill the seats. His face was tense, his emotions a mix of anger and guilt. He couldn’t shake the feeling of how things had spiraled, how his actions had caused so much pain, especially for Pond. His thoughts weighed heavily on him as he observed the preparations, feeling distant from the joy everyone else seemed to be forcing themselves to show.

Inside one of the rooms, Dunk stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his tie nervously. Phuwin was by his side, helping him get ready, offering small words of encouragement to ease Dunk’s jitters.

Phuwin: "You look perfect, Dunk. Just breathe, okay? Everything’s going to go smoothly."

Dunk smiled, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. The excitement he should have felt was muted, clouded by the recent events involving Pond. He shook his head, trying to push those thoughts away.

Dunk: "Thanks, Phu. I just want today to be happy… for everyone."

Phuwin placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

Phuwin: "It will be. Focus on you and p'Joong, okay? This is your day."

Meanwhile, Joong stood in his own room, adjusting his suit in the mirror. His thoughts mirrored Dunk’s, the joy of the wedding day tainted by what had happened. Still, he was determined to make it special for Dunk. After one last glance at his reflection, he took a deep breath and stepped out of the room.

Outside, Gemini was doing one final sweep of the arrangements on the beach, making sure everything was perfect. His eyes scanned the decorations, the seating, the floral displays. Satisfied, he gave a nod to the event planner before heading toward the entrance where the guests were arriving.

Pond, who had been quieter than usual throughout the day, was busy checking the food and other final details. His heart wasn’t in it, but he kept his mind occupied with the tasks at hand. It was easier that way, focusing on making the day go smoothly rather than dwelling on his own feelings.

Nearby, Fourth was with his parents, greeting guests as they arrived. He exchanged polite smiles and small talk, trying to contribute to the cheerful atmosphere.

As the time approached, Joong made his way to the altar, his heart pounding with anticipation. He stood there, hands clasped in front of him, waiting for Dunk to arrive. The guests settled into their seats, their eyes turning toward the entrance.

Then, the atmosphere began to shift. The soft music swelled, signaling Dunk’s arrival. The tension in the air seemed to melt away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of love and happiness. The guests turned their heads, watching as Dunk appeared, walking down the aisle with his father, Tay, by his side. His face was calm, but his eyes shone with emotion as he made his way toward Joong.

Joong’s breath caught in his throat as he watched Dunk approach, every step bringing them closer to the moment they had both been waiting for. The sunlight danced off the ocean, casting a golden glow over them as Dunk reached the altar.

Joong smiled softly, his eyes locking with Dunk’s, and in that moment, all the bitterness, all the pain that had clouded the day seemed to disappear. All that mattered was this moment, the two of them standing together, ready to start their lives as one.

The officiant began the ceremony, and the crowd sat in quiet awe, their hearts filled with the beauty of the moment.

As Joong and Dunk exchanged their vows, the crowd erupted in cheers. Their smiles radiated happiness as they slid the rings onto each other’s fingers. Joong leaned in, his eyes full of love, and kissed Dunk tenderly, sealing their bond. The crowd clapped and cheered louder, the joyous energy of the moment filling the air. The wedding was a success, a beautiful and heartfelt celebration of their love.

Later, at the after-party, the mood was light and festive. Joong and Dunk stood at the center, cutting their wedding cake. Laughter and cheers surrounded them as they fed each other pieces of the cake, their faces beaming with happiness.

Pond, who had been standing off to the side, watched quietly with a small smile. He tried to be happy for his brother, not wanting to let any of his personal emotions spoil the day. His heart ached, but he kept it hidden, forcing himself to smile as he observed everyone else enjoying the celebration.

Phuwin, who had been keeping an eye on Pond throughout the evening, noticed him standing alone. He took a piece of cake from the table and approached Pond with a playful glint in his eyes.

Phuwin: "Here, you can't miss out on the cake!"

Pond, distracted in his thoughts, reached out to take the cake from Phuwin's hand. But before he could, Phuwin gently lifted the piece to Pond's mouth, insisting he take a bite directly from him.

Pond blinked in surprise, but the playful smirk on Phuwin's face made him relax. He leaned forward and took a bite, the sweetness of the cake melting on his tongue.

Phuwin grinned, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

Phuwin: "Congratulations on your brother’s wedding!" he said, giving Pond a wink.

Pond couldn’t help but chuckle softly at Phuwin’s playful antics. For the first time that day, a real smile tugged at his lips. The tension in his heart eased just a little, thanks to Phuwin’s lighthearted gesture.

Pond: "Thanks, Phuwin."

Phuwin smiled back, pleased to see Pond laugh, even if it was just for a moment. They stood together quietly, the sounds of celebration swirling around them, but in that brief exchange, the heavy weight on Pond’s heart felt a little lighter.