Neo's silence was deafening. Samruan's expression turned colder.
"I thought so," Samruan said, his voice laced with disappointment. "This has to end, Neo. First's involvement with Khao will ruin our family's reputation."
"Uncle, please understand-"
"Understand?" Samruan's voice rose. "You want me to understand why First would risk everything for someone who's already committed? No, Neo, I won't tolerate this."
Neo took a deep breath. "Uncle, Khao needs this job desperately. He's struggling financially."
Samruan's gaze narrowed. "That may be true, Neo, but First's actions are unacceptable."
"Please, uncle," Neo pleaded. "Have mercy. Khao will do anything to keep this job."
Samruan leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "I'll hire Khao under one condition: no personal relationship with First."
Neo's eyes widened in surprise. "Really, uncle?"
Samruan nodded. "Yes, but Khao must understand the boundaries. His focus must be on the job, not First. Can you ensure that?"
Neo nodded eagerly. "Yes, uncle. I'll make sure."
Samruan's gaze turned stern. "And Neo? Make sure First understands the consequences. No more secrets, no more scandals."
"I will, uncle. Thank you," Neo said, relief washing over him.
As Neo left the study, he felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, he could salvage this situation after all.
◑◑◑
Khao returned to First's residence, finding him sprawled on the couch, nursing a hangover.
"Water," First croaked, his eyes squinting.
Khao fetched a glass, handing it to First.
"Thanks," First said, gulping the water.
Khao sat beside him, professional distance maintained.
"The meeting went well," Khao reported.
First nodded, wincing.
Khao continued, "The investors were impressed."
First's gaze drifted, his thoughts elsewhere.
Khao added, "Neo helped me prepare."
First's eyes snapped back, focusing.
"Neo...yeah," First muttered.
An uncomfortable silence settled, and then First's gaze locked onto Khao's, his eyes burning with desire.
"Khao, come here" First whispered, his voice husky.
Khao's heart skipped a beat as First pulled him closer. Their lips met in a heated kiss, First's intensity leaving Khao breathless.
Khao's mind reeled, unsure how to respond. He couldn't resist First's allure, but guilt over Podd nagged him.
Khao's hands hovered, hesitant to reciprocate. First deepened the kiss, his hands cradling Khao's face. Khao's resolve weakened, his lips softening.
Just as Khao yielded, First broke away. Khao's lips still tingled from the kiss. First's intense gaze held his, seeking something deeper.
Khao's thoughts swirled in confusion. What did First want from him? Just moments ago, they were kissing, and now First was gazing at him with an intensity that made Khao's heart race.
"Khao," First murmured, his eyes searching.
Khao's confusion grew. What did First see in him? Why was he so drawn?
