Unexpected Love *⁠.⁠✧

Episode 24

A few days had passed, and the entire group had fully immersed themselves in the volunteering activities. They spent their days helping the villagers, learning about local customs, and teaching the children, who had quickly grown fond of them. Each of them had their own memorable moments—from playing games with the kids to learning how to cook traditional dishes alongside the villagers.

Their relationships with one another had grown even stronger. Perth and Santa were as close as ever, often seen working side by side, while Winny and Satang shared playful banter that seemed to bring out smiles from everyone. Aou and Boom had developed an easy romance feeling between both of them, while Jimmy and Sea had become inseparable, exchanging knowing glances and quiet laughs. Pond had also found himself growing closer to Phuwin, the coordinator of the volunteering project. The two of them seemed to have a natural connection, sharing long conversations when the group wasn’t around.

Now, the group stood at the edge of the village, getting ready for one last adventure.The famous waterfall of Chiang Mai was their final destination before they go back to Bangkok, a perfect way to celebrate the bonds they’d formed and the experiences they’d shared.

The group gathered near their transport, backpacks slung over their shoulders as they prepared for the trip to the waterfall. The excitement was palpable as everyone chatted and teased one another. Winny was busy tugging at Satang’s bag playfully, trying to see if he could make it any heavier, while Satang playfully swatted him away.

"I swear, one day you’re going to mess with the wrong bag and regret it," Satang said, laughing as he finally wrestled his backpack free from Winny’s grip.

"I’ll take my chances," Winny replied, grinning mischievously. "Besides, you need the extra workout."

A few feet away, Aou was hanging onto Boom's arm, resting his head on Boom’s shoulder. "Come on, baby, walk with me," Aou said, his voice playful yet endearing. Boom couldn’t help but smile, shaking his head slightly.

"You know you don’t have to call me that every time," Boom teased, but his smile only grew when Aou leaned in closer.

"But I like it," Aou said, squeezing Boom's arm a little tighter. Boom glanced at him, his heart clearly softened by Aou's affection.

Meanwhile, Jimmy and Sea were leaning against a tree, sharing a quiet moment.

"You know, this trip’s been pretty amazing," Jimmy said, glancing over at Sea with a soft smile. "I didn’t expect us to get this close."

Sea chuckled, looking down shyly. "Yeah, me neither. But I’m glad we did."

Without saying anything more, Jimmy gently cupped Sea’s cheek and kissed him softly, their moment of quiet intimacy lost in the busy sounds of their friends preparing to leave. Sea blushed, but kissed him back gently before they pulled apart, smiling at each other.

Pond and Phuwin stood a little apart from the rest of the group, exchanging quiet words.

"I didn’t think I’d enjoy this project as much as I did," Pond said, his eyes lingering on Phuwin for a moment longer than necessary.

"I’m glad you did," Phuwin replied with a small smile. "It’s been nice having you around."

The two shared a brief, meaningful look before turning their attention back to the group, pretending like nothing had just passed between them.

Nearby, Sammy and Yatch were sitting on a log, taking in the view of the mountains and waterfall in front of them.

"This place is really something, huh?" Sammy said, breaking the comfortable silence.