The Merger

Twenty Five

It wasn't hard talking Khaotung into coming to the island with him. He knew Khao was missing his friends and any excuse for a visit would certainly be a good one.

The excuse in this case was to test the new fleet of three small aircrafts the company had purchased to ferry clients to and from the island. Traveling by ferry is of course more adventurous, fun and romantic but it was time consuming and not recommended for clients that were time pressed. First asked Khaotung to give this new venture a review and while they were one the island they might as well stay a night or two.

This is how First, Khaotung and Tay arrived on the island in time for Thursday evening dinner and their first night in the new revamped penthouse suite.

The suite was luxurious , with its own jacuzzi and for use of the hotel owners and their guests only. The view was breathtaking, at night the sky was clear with bright moonlight and shining stars. By day, the ocean , also the few boats and yachts in and out of the small harbour. Perfect for a moonlight proposal.

Tay was early to bed. He'd had a full day. Khaotung and First was enjoying the slight ocean breeze on their small private balcony high above the busy holiday makers staying at the hotel.

First had laid out a soft cosy blanket, huge pillows and all of Khao's fave snacks. They sipped champagne and talked about future plans.

First reached into the ice box next to him. From it he pulled not strawberries as Khaotung expected, but a diamond pendant. He said I gave you the ring to my heart almost a year ago, tonight I'm giving you my soul, my past and my future. With you I've made my home and am building our family. In you lives my happiness, without you I cannot exist. You've already agreed to be my life partner. It's time we make it official.

Khaotung smiled, brushing his hand gently to First's face, he simply said "That is my wish and my desire."

That tiny balcony, the ocean breeze, the stars brightly shining and the mysterious moon bore witness to the promises whispered, the oaths signed and bodies intertwined.

The following morning the little family set out on a surprise expedition. It started with new outfits, body pampering and a drive to an unknown destination, a destination which required no shoes, short pants and light cotton shirts playing in the wind.

Khaotung was intrigued. The drive only took ten minutes. We're still near the hotel thought Khaotung. I hope First doesn't have to run off for a meeting or something. He promised no work.

They arrived at a double storey cottage nestled between huge ancient trees. A serene garden filled with the magic of bird song led the way to this oasis with an ocean in its backyard. Through the fence at the back of the cottage lay an endless stretch of white sand and in the distance the hotel seemed a world away.

The cottage garden was filled with people, people which Khaotung recognised. On the beach he spotted chairs set out in rows and arch made of palm tree branches. In the middle of said arch stood two figures. Khaotung squinted, trying to identify who it was.

It was Dao and Earth. Khaotung turned to First with a surprised expression. Is that....? First what are you planning?" asked Khao. Earth walked over and hugged Khaotung immediately . He whispered "I hope this meets your approval. It's not everyday I get to officiate a wedding."

"Wedding?" asked Khaotung. First smiled and said to Khaotung bringing Khao's hand to his lips," I hope you don't mind, but I can't wait another day to officially call you husband. Will you stand at the altar with me, with all our friends here as witnesses?"

Khaotung could hardly speak. With all the emotions threatening to spill from his eyes, he could only offer a quick nod. "One more thing, " said First

Khaotung's eyes were huge with anticipation. What else could there be he wondered. " You already made me extremely happy First, I need nothing else as long as I have you and Tay."