The Enchanted White Cat

Episode 10: Tides of Memories

The early morning light crept into the room, casting soft beams of sunlight over the now still inn. The fire had long since died down, leaving only a faint glow of embers in the hearth. The village outside was quiet, with only the occasional bird chirping or soft rustle of leaves in the wind breaking the silence.

Phuwin stirred first, his eyes blinking open as he slowly came to his senses. For a moment, he was disoriented, the memories of the previous night coming back to him in a flood of warmth and emotion. The feeling of Pond's arms wrapped around him, the intensity of their kiss, the confessions they had shared—it all felt surreal, like a dream that he hadn't fully woken up from.

But as Phuwin shifted slightly, he realized it wasn't a dream. He was still nestled in Pond's arms, their bodies close, Pond's steady breathing a comforting presence beside him. Phuwin's heart swelled with affection as he looked up at Pond, who was still asleep, his face relaxed and peaceful in the soft light of dawn.

Phuwin couldn't help but smile as he took in the sight of him. There was something about seeing Pond like this—unguarded, calm, the usual intensity of his gaze softened in sleep—that made Phuwin's chest tighten with emotion. He didn't want to move, didn't want to disturb the quiet intimacy of the moment.

But as much as he wanted to stay wrapped in Pond's arms forever, he knew they couldn't ignore the world outside. The curse was still hanging over them, and while they had made progress, there was still much to be done. Phuwin sighed softly, his fingers brushing lightly against Pond's arm.

Pond stirred at the touch, his eyes slowly fluttering open. For a moment, he seemed confused, his gaze unfocused, but then he blinked and looked down at Phuwin, his lips curling into a sleepy smile.

"Morning," Pond murmured, his voice rough with sleep.

"Morning," Phuwin replied, his own smile widening.

For a moment, they simply lay there, neither of them moving, content to bask in the warmth of each other's presence. It was a rare moment of peace, a reprieve from the chaos of their journey, and Phuwin savored it, knowing that it wouldn't last forever.

"How are you feeling?" Pond asked, his voice soft as he gently traced his fingers along Phuwin's arm.

Phuwin sighed, his body relaxing even further into Pond's touch. "Better than I have in a long time. Last night..." He trailed off, unsure of how to put the emotions of the previous night into words.

Pond's smile softened, his hand stilling on Phuwin's arm. "Last night was... everything, Peem. I'm glad we finally got to say what we've both been feeling."

Phuwin's heart skipped a beat at Pond's words, the sincerity in his voice making Phuwin's chest ache with affection. "Me too, Phum. I didn't think I'd ever have the courage to say it."

Pond's gaze softened, and he leaned down to press a soft kiss to Phuwin's forehead. "You don't ever have to be afraid with me. I'll always be here, Peem."

Phuwin's eyes fluttered closed at the gentle kiss, a soft warmth spreading through his chest. It felt like everything he had been holding in—his fear, his uncertainty, his longing—had finally been released, and now there was only peace.

But as much as Phuwin wanted to stay in this moment, the outside world was beginning to intrude. The sound of movement from the other side of the room caught his attention, and Phuwin reluctantly pulled away from Pond, glancing over to where Joong and Dunk were stirring from their sleep.

Joong was the first to sit up, rubbing his eyes as he stretched his arms over his head. Dunk, still half-asleep, leaned against him, his face buried in Joong's shoulder as he let out a sleepy groan.