Dhevaprom: Kwanruetai

Chapter 21

Rungrawee's hotel room was on the third floor of the same hotel hosting the fashion show. However, she had requested a private room separate from the other models. Arada, as the show organizer, had no choice but to accommodate her. After all, Rungrawee was once a top-tier model whose popularity made her a sought-after face for almost every product on the market.

Rungrawee's journey into the industry began through the guidance of a scout. She started with photo shoots but hadn't gained much recognition at first. Her breakthrough came with an advertisement for an instant coffee brand, where she wore a provocative outfit and danced energetically. The commercial became an instant sensation upon release. Billboards along highways displayed her in ultra-short denim shorts and a sultry pose, making her an icon of allure.

A native of northern Thailand, Rungrawee's fair complexion, stunning figure, and enchanting smile propelled her into the limelight. She alternated between modeling and runway gigs, and two years ago, when Arada first started organizing fashion shows, she recruited Rungrawee as the star attraction. That particular Thai fabric showcase became the talk of the social scene and marked the first meeting between Rungrawee and Athawit. Their relationship blossomed quickly, with Athawit visiting her condo whenever he had free time.

Athawit was known for his revolving door of romantic partners, but Rungrawee held a special edge. She wasn't just another pretty face—she was a high-profile model who could help him achieve his ambitions. His larger projects often depended on her presence.

When Athawit rang the doorbell of her room, it didn't take long for her to answer.

"Why are you so late? Where's my stuff?" Rungrawee held out her hand impatiently.

Athawit's gaze lingered on her face, noticing how visibly worn out she looked. He had once thought her beautiful, but even the best makeup couldn't hide her deteriorating appearance today. Her gaunt frame, sunken eyes, and frail form were a stark contrast to the vibrant woman he used to know. The sensuality she once exuded had all but vanished.

"Calm down, darling. Let me come in first. What if someone sees us out here?" he said, stepping inside as she roughly pulled him in.

As soon as the door shut, she repeated her demand. "Where's my stuff?"

Athawit looked at her with a mix of pity and resignation. Rungrawee now seemed like an empty shell of her former self.

"You realize how bad you look, right? Even with makeup, you can't hide the wear and tear," he remarked bluntly.

"I don't care. Just give me the stuff. I can't stand it anymore," she snapped, desperation in her voice as her trembling hands and tear-streaked face betrayed her craving. Her agitated movements made her distress painfully obvious.

Athawit pulled a small white packet from his pocket, waving it teasingly. Rungrawee lunged for it, but he quickly pulled it out of reach.

"Hand it over, now," she demanded, her voice cracking.

"I will, but you have to promise to do as I say," Athawit replied coolly.

"I'll do whatever you want. Please, just give it to me," she begged, collapsing to her knees in despair. She hugged herself tightly, as if trying to hold her body together. Athawit gently cupped her pale, once-radiant face.

"That's more like it. Alright, here you go," he said, finally handing her the packet.

Her hands shook so badly she struggled to open it, growing increasingly frustrated.

"Let me help," Athawit offered. He tore the packet open, poured the white powder onto the glass coffee table, and fashioned it into neat lines. He handed her a straw.