need help

11

As Macau’s strength gradually returned, so did the warmth and closeness of the family. Each day brought small, meaningful gestures as everyone rallied around him, determined to make amends for the time they had failed him. For the first time in years, Macau felt the cautious spark of happiness as his family surrounded him with the love he had once thought lost.

One morning, they gathered in the garden—Kinn, Porsche, Tankhun, Pete, Kim, and Vegas all by Macau’s side. The early sun cast a soft glow over them as Tankhun, usually reserved in his own way, approached with a gentle smile and a warm blanket, draping it over Macau’s shoulders.

“I got you this because it’s supposed to be super cozy,” he explained, his voice uncharacteristically soft. “You deserve to be warm and comfortable, always.”

Macau managed a small smile, a grateful look in his eyes. “Thank you, Khun,” he murmured, touched by his brother’s thoughtfulness.

Pete, ever observant and compassionate, sat close by, handing Macau a cup of tea. “If you ever need someone to talk to, Macau, I’m here. I should have noticed sooner, but I’m not letting you go through anything alone again.”

Macau looked at Pete, feeling the sincerity in his words, and nodded, feeling a warmth he hadn’t felt in a long time. Kinn, who had kept a respectful distance before, finally stepped closer, his expression both apologetic and resolute.

“Macau,” Kinn began, his voice firm but carrying a soft undertone of regret, “I should have been more like an older brother to you. I won’t make excuses, but I’ll make sure you know you’re not alone.” He reached out, placing a hand on Macau’s shoulder, a promise in his touch.

Macau’s voice was barely above a whisper, but the depth of emotion was unmistakable. “I… didn’t think any of you would want me around,” he admitted quietly, his gaze dropping as he fought back tears. “I thought you all hated me.”

Porsche leaned forward, his usual gentle smile softened with understanding. “You’re our family, Macau. We didn’t see what was right in front of us, and for that, we’re sorry. But you’re not going to face anything alone from now on.”

Kim, standing quietly by, finally moved closer. He placed a hand over Macau’s, squeezing gently. “I was blind to what you were going through, Macau, and for that, I’m sorry,” Kim murmured, his voice breaking. “But I’ll prove to you that I can be the brother you need.”

Macau looked up, meeting Kim’s gaze, and gave him a small, genuine smile. The air felt lighter, the burden he had carried for so long slowly lifting with each of their words and gestures. The shadows of the past still lingered, but he felt a warmth he hadn’t known in years, surrounded by family who had finally opened their eyes to his pain.

That evening, they all gathered for a meal together in the dining room. Laughter filled the air as Tankhun recounted exaggerated stories from their past, Pete and Porsche chiming in with jokes, and Vegas constantly checking on Macau, making sure he was comfortable. The room felt alive, filled with laughter and genuine affection as everyone contributed to the lighthearted atmosphere.

At one point, Kinn raised his glass, his gaze turning serious but warm as he looked around the table. “To family,” he said, his voice carrying the weight of a promise. “We’re here for each other, no matter what. And Macau…to you, for your strength.”

Everyone raised their glasses, clinking them together in a gesture that felt more meaningful than any words. Macau smiled, feeling truly at peace for the first time in a long time. He knew healing wouldn’t happen overnight, but he also knew he wasn’t facing it alone. His family was with him, and together, they would move forward, stronger than before.