Because of you

Chapter 11

In a few minutes, they arrived at a grand, secluded house, shrouded in shadows from towering trees. As they drove further, the trees grew thicker, forming an almost tunnel-like path that blocked out any signs of the outside world. Kongpob’s curiosity turned to unease; there was no hint of other homes, no distant lights—only dense forest surrounding them. Arthit gave Kongpob a brief, unreadable smile before stepping out of the car, coming around to Kongpob’s side, and pulling him out with a firm grip.

Arthit’s hold tightened as he led Kongpob toward the entrance, his arm wrapping possessively around his shoulders. Kongpob couldn’t shake the feeling that this was a place where no one would hear him, even if he screamed. Arthit’s eyes scanned their quiet surroundings before they reached the large wooden doors, the only entrance to this hidden sanctuary. Here, in this remote location that only Arthit seemed to know, escape seemed impossible.

The house itself was large and modern but not overly flashy. With sleek glass panels and dark wood accents, it was both elegant and intimidating, as though it had been designed to keep secrets. The lights inside illuminated the pathway, casting a warm but eerie glow. Arthit pressed his finger to a discreet security pad, and the heavy door unlocked with a soft, foreboding click.

Once inside, Kongpob felt a chill run down his spine. The space was luxurious and spacious, with polished hardwood floors and walls adorned with tasteful art and high-end furniture. Though not quite a mansion, the house was grand enough to make Kongpob feel like he was stepping into a world entirely controlled by Arthit. A large fireplace crackled softly in the living room, casting flickering shadows across the walls. Though it gave warmth to the space, the atmosphere remained cold and isolating, as though they’d left reality behind.

Arthit’s grip on Kongpob’s arm tightened as he led him further inside, the soft thud of their footsteps echoing in the quiet house. No staff, no distractions—just the two of them in this hidden space that no one would think to search.

As they walked down a long hallway, Kongpob noticed a single door at the far end, leading to what seemed like an even more private area. Each step filled him with a sense of impending dread.

“It’s so quiet... no other rooms around. It’s just us in this whole place,” Kongpob thought, overwhelmed by a feeling of confinement.

Arthit, noticing his unease, smirked. "Don’t think too much. Let’s go."

He pulled Kongpob to the door and handed him a key.

“Take this, open the door, and go inside,” Arthit instructed, his voice stern.

Kongpob took the key with trembling hands, feeling the weight of the silence around him. His heart raced as he unlocked the door, his mind spinning. "Am I opening the door to my own doom?" he wondered, fear tightening his chest.

Slowly, he stepped inside, and as he did, something soft and fragrant began to fall from above. He looked up, his breath catching as he realized it was rose petals. In many cultures, rose petals are used to celebrate new beginnings or to welcome loved ones, and yet, in this strange, isolated house, the gesture felt surreal—like a forced celebration of something he hadn’t agreed to.

Kongpob glanced back at Arthit, who followed him into the room with a broad smile.

“Welcome home, my wifey,” Arthit said, patting Kongpob's back before locking the door behind them with his fingerprint.

“Take a look around. I’ll be right back,” he whispered into Kongpob's ear before stepping away.

Kongpob stood there, feeling dazed and overwhelmed. He cautiously wandered around the private room, taking in the rich decor, the scent of rose petals lingering in the air. The setting felt more intimate than he was prepared for, making him feel trapped with each step. His eyes landed on a large screen in the living area. He stared at it, trying to collect himself, when suddenly the screen flickered on, filling the air with sounds that made his heart drop.