Side Story Two: Happy Birthday Vegas

255 25 3
                                        

As the car rolled through the gates of the main family mansion, Pete couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves. It was his first Christmas Eve family dinner as Vegas' husband and an official member of the Theerapanyakul family. Venice was sitting quietly between him and Vegas, humming softly to herself, while Seoul sat calmly on Vegas' lap, chatting animatedly with her stepdad. Vegas nodded along to her little ramblings, his lips curving into a soft smile every so often.

"Do you think Khun Noo's decorations will be too much again?" Pete asked, glancing at Vegas with a teasing tone.

Vegas smirked, still looking at Seoul. "Pete, 'too much' is P'Khun's specialty. You should know that by now."

Venice giggled at their exchange, her small hand tugging at Pete's sleeve. "I like Uncle Tankhun's decorations. They're always so shiny!"

Pete smiled and patted Venice's head. "They sure are, Venice."

When the car came to a stop, Pete hopped out first and helped Venice climb down, while Vegas stepped out holding Seoul. At the entrance, Macau stood with Cherry and Rome, all grinning like kids on Christmas morning—which, Pete thought, wasn't far from the truth.

"Why are you standing out here?" Vegas asked his brother as he adjusted Seoul on his hip.

Macau shrugged nonchalantly. "We wanted to wait for you guys. Felt like the thing to do."

Vegas raised a brow but didn't argue. "Okay, if you say so."

The group made their way inside, where the staff led them to the garden. Pete's breath hitched as he stepped out and saw Tankhun's masterpiece. The garden was transformed into a glittering winter wonderland, with strings of white and silver lights draped everywhere, snow-like decor covering the tables and trees, and even a glimmering centerpiece that looked like an ice sculpture.

Tankhun appeared, practically bouncing on his heels as he spotted them. "Pete! My dear bodyguard! I mean, cousin-in-law now!" he exclaimed, winking at Pete before pulling him into an enthusiastic hug. "Advance Merry Christmas! I'm so happy we're spending it together as family. Finally!"

Pete chuckled nervously but hugged him back. "Merry Christmas, Khun Noo. Everything looks... amazing."

Venice tugged on Tankhun's sleeve, grinning up at him. "Merry Christmas, Uncle Tankhun!"

Tankhun gasped dramatically, crouching down to Venice's level. "Merry Christmas, my little Venice! I have so many gifts for you, but first—dinner! You can't open presents on an empty stomach."

Venice nodded seriously. "Okay, Uncle."

Tankhun straightened up and turned to Vegas, his smile softening. "Vegas. Advance Merry Christmas—and advance happy birthday!"

Vegas gave a small, appreciative nod. "Thank you, P'Khun."

Tankhun taps Vegas' shoulder lightly before paying attention to Rome, who giggles when Tankhun pokes his chubby cheeks. "You look so cute tonight, my Rome."

"Merry Christmas, P'Khun," Cherry said. Tankhun returns Cherry's greeting, then he looks at Macau. Macau teasingly hugs him tightly, "Merry Christmas, P'Khun!"

"Oh my God!!! You're ruining my outfit! Macau!" Tankhun screeches.

Cherry, Vegas, Pete, Venice, Seoul, and Rome laugh at Macau's mischievousness. Before anything more could be said, Kinn, Porsche, Jax, Max, and Kim appeared from the house, adding to the festive chaos. Everyone exchanged greetings, with Venice dashing over to hug Jax and Max while cheerfully wishing them a merry Christmas.

Creating MemoriesWhere stories live. Discover now