Destiny's Game

Chapter 13

"Have a safe flight, Phu. See you soon." Beer's smile didn't reach his eyes; I could see the sadness there.

"Thanks, Beer. Take care on your way home. See you soon."

Beer nodded and gave me a tight, warm hug before we waved goodbye to each other.

I let out a deep sigh as I entered the departure area. For some reason I couldn't pinpoint, I felt anxious about going home. Part of me wanted to cancel my flight and return to the dorm. I had already submitted a resume at a convenience store that was hiring, which I spotted yesterday while heading back. It can be a valid reason that I can give to my parents if I cancelled my flight.

I almost texted my parents this morning to say I wouldn't be coming home, but then Gemini video-called me. He was checking if I was ready for the airport and if I had everything packed.

I knew Gemini wouldn't let me skip coming home. He would nag me endlessly, so I kept my thoughts to myself.

Even as the plane took off, I couldn't shake the feeling that I didn't want to go home. If I could just shout and stop the plane, I would.

The 22-hour flight was uncomfortable. I even cried and nearly considered taking a flight back to America during our first layover. I didn't eat at all during the flight and couldn't even manage to sleep. My mind was a mess, and I felt scared and nervous, though I didn't know why.

Or maybe deep down, I knew the reason but didn't want to accept it.

I was afraid of seeing Pond and confronting my feelings again.

Sometimes, we think we're over things—things we believe we've completely forgotten. We convince ourselves that we've moved on, but those feelings can still linger.

It's hard to trust yourself. It's hard to believe what your mouth says.

Beer was right. It's still him. I thought I had moved on, but I hadn't. I just hadn't realized it until I saw Pond at the airport with Gemini, who came to pick me up.

I stared at the ceiling of my room, my mind in chaos, wishing I could go back to the US to avoid Pond. Guilt was consuming me. I was frustrated with my feelings for him and felt guilty toward Gemini, as if I were betraying him. I was in love with my twin's boyfriend—feelings I shouldn't have.

I looked at my luggage, still unpacked and untouched. I truly wanted to return to the US. I didn't know how to face Gemini after acknowledging my feelings for his boyfriend. I wasn't sure if I could control myself or hide my feelings for Pond this time. Based on my observations, I was clearly falling for him. My feelings were deeper than I had realized.

To be honest, I thought I just missed him. I assumed it was simply because I hadn't seen him in a while. But seeing how sweet he and Gemini were together earlier—and the pain that came with it—made me sure my feelings for him were stronger and deeper than before. The only solution I could think of to avoid any complications was to go back to the US as soon as possible.

"Still awake?" I jumped as I sat up. Pond was standing in front of me, holding a tray.

"How long have you been here?" Why didn't he knock?

"Kind of. Sorry for entering your room. I've been knocking for a while; I thought you were asleep."

"I... I can't sleep."

Damn! Why did I stutter?

"I brought you some milk. It might help."

I nodded and took the glass from the tray. I quickly scanned him. He was wearing a white tank top and denim pants, giving off a relaxed vibe. He must feel at home here.

Pond still looked handsome—maybe even more so. He seemed to have lost some weight and looked like he'd been hitting the gym. His muscles were more defined. He looked hot.

What am I thinking? Hot? Yummy? Excuse me, in case you forgot, the person in front of you is your brother's boyfriend. Stop those thoughts!

"Thanks." I quickly averted my gaze.

"You look bothered. You didn't even notice I came in. Is something wrong?"

Pond sat on the floor, and it wasn't a good position for me. I could see his chiseled chest, which wasn't helping my thoughts.

I looked into his eyes but quickly glanced away. I couldn't hold his gaze; it felt like his stare was draining my strength.

"I need to go back to the US as soon as possible." Maybe saying this would help me. Of course, he would tell Gemini about our conversation.

"Why? I thought you were good to have at least a month off. Did you forget to submit something? I can call Phi Win."

"No, I submitted everything I needed to. There's another reason I have to go back right away."

And that reason is you.

"What is it?"

My phone suddenly vibrated. I checked it and saw an email from the convenience store where I applied. They wanted me to start next week. Perfect timing.

"I got the job," I said, showing him the email.

"You applied for a job? Why?" Pond asked, reading the email.

"For experience. Plus, extra allowance. Living costs in the US are very high. I can't keep asking my parents for money. Gemini and I are both studying. Getting a job is the only way I can help myself and my parents."

"I can send you extra allowance. No need to work part-time."

"What? Why would you do that?"

Why would he send me money? I knew his family was wealthy—money wasn't an issue for him. But sending me money was out of the question.

"Just so you don't have to work. You can focus on your studies."

I just shook my head.

"You're crazy, Pond."

"Yes, I am. Crazy about you."

My eyebrows shot up at that statement. My jaw literally dropped as I looked into his eyes.

Is he flirting with me? Why? Isn't Gemini enough for him? Does he want both of us?

If so, that's a total turn-off for me. I can't stand unfaithfulness.

"You and your wild thoughts, Pond. Stop whatever you're thinking. My brother loves you. Please be loyal to him."

"Huh? What are you talking about?"

I ignored his question and his confused expression. He wouldn't fool me with his act.

I downed the milk in one go and placed the cup back on the tray Pond was still holding.

"I want to sleep, Pond. Thanks for the milk, and thanks for picking me up from the airport earlier. Good night."

I crawled into bed, pulled the blanket over myself, and closed my eyes. I could feel Pond's gaze on me, but I did my best to ignore it. After a minute, I heard him close the door. Only then did I open my eyes.

If Pond was planning to flirt with me, I really needed to go back to America. Loving him was already a mistake. You can't fix one mistake with another. Yes, I love him, but I love my twin more. Hurting him is not something I want to do.