Always You

8

Arthit's POV

If you think eidetic memory is an innate attribute, you're wrong; I, being a living attestation to the claim. It owes to the fact that I can tell you the exact number of yellow flecks in Kongpob's dark eyes albeit beholding them for only a few seconds. A picture of his unusually long lashes that caressed a wheatish expanse of skin, was etched in my mind, even days after I'd seen them up close. And as a consequence of the sudden fantastic memory, I had pondered on the moment more than I should have.

My fingers subconsciously stroked my face, which still burned with the memory of his rugged touch. That evening was the first time I had felt the roughness of his palms, the kind that elicited a feeling of security. And also, the kind that had caused a reflexive tightness in my pants.

I snapped my eyes shut as a tornado of shame hit me. Was I as desperate as to get excited by a simple touch, a man's, to boot? In the entirety of my life, not once had I felt such a strong rush of arousal. The fact that it was catalysed by a guy added to the strangeness. What had followed was, blind excitement assuming control, as I closed my eyes in anticipation of God knows what! I am not even sure what Kongpob was about to carry out.

So, before I could have embarrassed myself further, I did what any sane person would do. I ran. And pretended for rest of the week that I was fine, while my insides were screaming in confusion. Not to forget the unsolicited pleasure that overcame each time I gazed at Kongpob's lithe hands. I clearly needed to get laid.

The loud ring of my cell phone broke my profane trance.

"Hey Arthit, what's up?"

"Hey Prae. Just the usual. Working away on a few files."

"Do you have time this Sunday? I need to buy Maprang a gift, it's her birthday on the 20th. Would you mind coming along?"

"Not at all. Just text me the time and place. I'll be there."

"Cool. Thanks!"

XXXXX

"You look good." Prae was slurping on some milkshake, as we sat in one of the hip cafés at Siam mall. She pushed her golden mane behind her shoulders and continued. "Balancing two jobs must be panning out better than I expected."

"About that... It's been around three months since I left the job at Todd's. I am only working for my company now."

"Wait what. Did you finally pay all your dues back?"

"Not really, but yeah. Something of the sort. The bottom line is that I don't owe those nasty creditors money now."

"What does 'something of the sort' imply?"

"It's kinda complicated."

"Then uncomplicate it for me." I can never win an argument against Prae. It's been this way since we were kids and growing up, her persuasion skills had only increased.

"Do you remember Kongpob? The CEO I work for?"

"Who wouldn't. You've been constantly grumbling about him since the day you started working for him. Honestly, he is the only one who has gotten under your skin so far. You're such a saint otherwise!"

"Yeah.. turns out he is not that bad after all. He cleared the dues on my behalf and I have to now pay him back instead, at a much more relaxed pace."

"Whattttt. That does not seem like something a boss from hell would do."

To elucidate the matter, I elaborately explained everything that had happened so far, carefully leaving out a few shameful escapades.

"What's the catch though?"

"There is none."

"Oh come on, why would the Chief Officer go to such lengths for a mere employee? You are almost strangers, in a personal capacity."

"We're not."

"......."

I drew in a deep breath. "We're definitely not strangers. We have something that resembles a friendship, but not quite. I don't know how and when, but he's come to be an important person in my life. My gratitude may play a part in it, but only a little one. The biggest justification would be the respect he gives me. I don't feel inferior standing next to him. He makes sure that I know we are equals. Though we are clearly not Prae. He is the most distinguished person I know and I could never be at par with someone like that. No matter how much I- how much- I hope for it." My chest tightened a little, but I carried on. "And still he makes me feel like I am someone remarkable, worthy of all good things. I never knew how much I yearned- no- how much I needed respect, until he came along."

Prae was not looking at me, she was watching me, as if scrutinising every sentence.

"And that's why he is a great friend to me." I wrapped up lamely.

"Neither bosses nor friends make you feel that way."

"I know right? Kongpob is the best!" I held my hands in a thumbs-up and flashed her all my teeth, hoping desperately that she wouldn't catch on to my demented feelings.

She narrowed her eyes for a while and dropped the topic after a dry "Okay. Whatever makes you happy.".

We were strolling around the mall when suddenly Prae halted in her steps and pulled me in front of her.

"Shit. It's Rio."

"Rio who?"

"The one who has been trying to court me for a while now."

"Oh, that Rio. Well, just tell him about Maprang. He won't pursue someone gay."

"I can't! He's a family friend and I've not come out to my parents yet. Too risky. Oh god he's coming our way. Quick, hide me!"

"Too late. He's already seen us."

"Arthit...it's show time."

"hu-

"I am telling him we're dating."

"How about a N-

"Heyy Prae. How have you been? You've not returned any of my calls. I was worried, you know."

"I was kind of busy. Dating takes a toll on one." I rolled my eyes as she dramatically huffed.

"Dating?"

"U huh. Meet my boyfriend Arthit."

He looked like a lost puppy as he gave me a weak handshake, which made me feel bad, to be honest.

"So, why did you call me?"

"I bought an apartment recently and wanted to invite you to my housewarming party."

""Of course, we'll come. We'd love to see your house. Won't you Arthit? Oh wait, you don't mind me bringing him along, right? It's a Sunday and I usually spend weekends with my boyfriend." She elbowed me subtly, prompting me to act my part. I held her waist and pulled her closer, before looking at Rio who seemed like he was going to wail any moment.

"Of course you can. I-uh have to rush now. Mum's calling. Bye."

We watched his retreating figure with remorse. "Had to be done. It's all for the best" Giving me a nonchalant shrug, she walked ahead. It wasn't, for the best.