Fragments Of Us [Completed]

What Jealously-Why

Over the past few months, Krit and Vel had kept their conversations short and superficial. Every time Krit tried to check in, Vel would brush things off with a dismissive "I’m fine," leaving little room for any real conversation. Krit had wanted to push, to ask what was really going on, but he thought better of it. Vel had been through enough, and the timing just didn’t feel right. Any thoughts of rekindling the physical tension between them were put on the back burner. Pushing for sex, Krit realized, would be cruel in Vel's current state. So, for now, Krit focused on just being there—no pressure, no expectations.

In those 3-4 months, the biggest change was that Vel’s divorce with Nut had been finalized. It wasn’t a topic Vel willingly discussed, but Krit knew. Everyone who knew Vel had heard about it in some way or another. Despite the fact that they were neighbors, Krit kept his distance unless Vel reached out first.

But Krit made a habit of checking on Vel twice a week. He told himself it was just to make sure Vel was alright, though a part of him knew he was also watching for any sign of Vel recovering from his heartbreak.

One afternoon, as Krit approached Vel’s apartment, he noticed the door was slightly ajar. Frowning, he knocked lightly. No response. He knocked again, then a third time. Nothing. Hesitating for only a moment, Krit pushed the door open and stepped inside. His eyes scanned the room, taking in the mess—clothes strewn about, empty bottles scattered on tables. But what caught his attention more was the muffled sound of voices coming from the bedroom.

Krit froze, the realization dawning on him as the sounds became more distinct. There was no mistaking it—someone was having sex in Vel's bedroom.

His heart sank.

Quietly, Krit backed out of the apartment, closing the door softly behind him. He leaned against the wall outside, trying to process what he had just stumbled upon. After a few minutes, he heard movement from inside, followed by the sound of footsteps approaching the door.

Krit straightened as the door opened, and a man he didn’t recognize stepped out. The guy gave Krit a nod before walking off without another word. A moment later, Vel appeared in the doorway, smiling in a way that seemed almost out of place—content, maybe even a little carefree but somehow sad too .

Krit didn’t need to ask. The pieces were all there, and it was obvious what had just happened.

One evening, Krit was deep into his work, trying to focus on the endless reports that piled up on his desk. He was still running things at the office, trying to keep his mind occupied despite everything happening with Vel. Work was his only escape lately, even if it felt like a losing battle at times. As he clicked through his files, he heard a knock at the door. Before he could respond, Vel walked in, his presence bringing a sudden tension into the room.

“Krit,” Vel started, a bit awkwardly, “do you know any good places around here to drink? Like, a club or something?”

Krit raised an eyebrow, surprised. “Yeah, I know a few. But... why ask me? You’re the one who’s been in the city longer than me.”

Vel shrugged, his eyes distant. “You’re young. You guys probably know more about these things. I haven’t been to a club in years, not since—well, let’s just say it’s been a while since I went out for a personal day out.”

Krit hesitated but then nodded. “Alright, I know a place. But are you sure you’re in the mood for that?” He was already concerned by the sudden request, especially given Vel’s usual habits.

They drove to the club, a buzzing spot filled with people looking to lose themselves for the night. When they arrived, Vel wasted no time ordering drinks. Krit watched with growing concern as Vel quickly downed one after the other. Vel wasn’t the type to drink heavily. Everyone knew he mostly stuck to red wine and avoided hard liquor. It wasn’t just a matter of preference—Vel had always been careful about how alcohol could affect his health. Seeing him now, tossing back shots like water, set off alarms in Krit’s mind.