The Merger

Two

Khao leaned back against the seat-rest. He was tired. The last few days had taken all his wits and energy to pull a preverbial rabbit out of the hat. He sighed and yawned quietly. The months fighting to survive both as a Tungmeow and as Khaotung had taken their toll. Who would have thought that this was how the river would twist.

The wheels thump- thumped rhythmically across the dark road as they made their way home. He had trusted the person next to him completely. He trusted his driving, his witty intelligence and also with his heart. Good thing too since he'd decided that First was to be his life partner. Of course First didn't know that yet, no point in letting all your secrets out of the bag at once right?.

"Why don't you take a short nap. I'll wake you when we're home," said First glancing toward Khao. He loved the contours of Khoa's face. The smooth jawline, the long eyelashes, the delicate pointed nose... This person had made a home in his heart, had become a source of comfort and strength to him. Three months ago he didn't think this was possible and thought loneliness was a certain sign of his future. He couldn't believe how wrong he had been. As proof of his existence Khao groaned while fretting with his seatbelt. "Something wrong?" he asked Khaotung. "No no. Just trying to get comfortable" Khao answered. " We're nearly there" said First. " I can't believe I've not introduced you to my home yet. We've been so busy, we've hardly had time to go home. It's hotel after hotel, meeting after meeting and quite frankly I could use a home cooked meal," said First who wasn't complaining but sounded a whole lot like he was. "And here I thought it was my charming company that you loved, turns out you just couldn't wait to get away from me" answered Khao playfully. First chuckled softly. " Yeah yeah Mr Charming, it's all about you. I won't mention that I haven't met your mom either. Are you going to tell her about us? " asked First. Hope clearly resonating in his voice. "Why, ... are you worried that I wouldn't?. " Khao paused, aware of how important his next words were going to be. " I've told her I met someone and that he's important to me. I've haven't told her who you are but I've wanted to do that face to face. She's not back from her vacation yet but she and I will talk as soon  as she's home. Besides, it will take some finesse telling her the monster I've been cursing for years is now master of my heart. Have a little patience with me will you?" Khaotung begged of First. First smiled, knowing that no matter what Khao asks of him he would move mountains to make it happen. "No rush, I mean  we might not even be together that long. Who knows, maybe we'll break up before she's back." Khaotung glared at First, his eyes shooting fiery darts in First's direction. "Excuse me?, " he said softly yet menacingly. First realised his attempt at a comedic retort had failed miserably and he'd better fix it or he'd be in for a long and troublesome night. "Sorry, sorry, I was attempting to make a funny, instead, I made a mess. You forgive me? " First said quickly. "How about I make dinner and you forget what I just said, please?" asked, no pleaded First. Khao thought for minute before answering" you make breakfast too, with creamy coffee and pancakes and maybe I'll forgive you." "Done ! " answered First thinking it's a good thing he's got that bakery on speed dial. Khaotung smiled, turned suddenly toward First and kissed him gently on the cheek. "I knew you were joking."

Just then a dimly lit winding lane came into view. Two huge heavy gates signalled the entryway with twinkling fairy lights all along the road right up to the front door. "There she is,"said Fist. "Welcome to my sanctuary ". Khao looked up at the homely cottage and thought that this house looked as friendly and inviting as First does. It suited his personality. The held hands as First unlocked the door. They paused before stepping inside. Once inside First closed the door behind them and in the dark he pulled Khao closer into a very tight emotional hug. "So we begin our lives together ," whispered First in Khaotung's ear......