Sotus Short Stories- discontinued

Kongpob - The Moon Shines because of the Sun

I will never forget these moments. Even though it was a simple gesture as a senior, but to me it has reaffirmed everything I have been feeling towards Phi. It started when I saw the head hazer group coming towards our table. We asked one of our seniors to help us study for the upcoming calculus exam.

This was our first interaction with the group since the flag retrieval day. It was interesting to see the group more relaxed and joking around. Even though they were asked to help us with the studying... it turned into a horrible prayer meant for a temple. I couldn't stifle my laugh quick enough.

What really caught my attention was P'Arthit. He didn't want to let go of any details of the exam other than trying to scare us. However after all the joking aside he gave us some encouraging words, "don't worry. It's not that difficult. You can do it. I believe in you." I would have placed a bet that M is thinking this is a threat, but I know it's not. Since I pay close attention to Phi's face; I could see that thin smile and his eyes are twinkling in away that made me wish I could look at him forever. I have never had this overwhelming emotion before. I am not saying I have never fancied anyone before, but there is something different about this time. All I know is I want to know everything about him and be the only one.

Later, that same day I see him again while waiting for my food. He looked a bit lost today. My guess, it had to be related to the closure of the drink shop; Family Emergency is what was written on the sign posted.

"Did you not buy Nomyen today... P'Arthit?" His face is clearly displaying his irration of my presence and comment. "Shop is closed." He looks away, so I continued "does anybody else know that you like to drink Nomyem?" I smirk a little. I want to see his reaction. As expected he responds with hostility.

"Why? Are you going to tell my friends?" "No" as I shake my head while still smiling, "I'm just curious. So, did you tell anyone?" Again with hostility, "No!"

"How about when you were crying behind the bleachers?" I couldn't tell if his voice is getting more and more annoyed by my questions or he was embarrassed, "of course not!" What came out of my mouth next I instantly regretted it. "Then who knows, that Ai'Oon is your nickname?" I can see his ears; a bright red hue as he spoke. "Kongpob! If you tell anyone about any of this, you're dead meat!"

To me this is an empty threat unlike others who would run far away if this head hazer shouted at them. The advantage I have is I know he is a kind, caring, and giving person behind the bravado he displays. I look him straight in the eyes as I speak, "I won't tell anyone" I don't understand. My voice became so low and gentle when I said it. Maybe it's because I meant every word of it. I really had no desire to tell anyone.. I wanted to know more of these little pieces that make up P'Arthit and keep them all to myself. I wanted to ask him another question, but he cuts me off.

"When is your calculus exam?" I thought and replied "Wednesday" with no expression on his face he explains, "The exam is usually on the area under a curve. Make sure to review that part." Before I could say anything he walks away from me. I watched him leave, not without thinking how P'Arthit is the cutest person I have ever met.

Another memory that brings me such bliss is when we began having our dinners together. We don't always speak to one another, but it was nice just having each other's presence. One day, he did not arrive at his normal time and I don't have his contact information to find out if he was still coming. I had ordered his meal like I always do and decided to study while I wait for the food. When he approached his face told me something was different.

"Kongpob, did you order my food already?" "Yes, P'Arthit. Why?" before Phi could say anything P'Knott walks up to the table. Ahh, he probably doesn't want him to know we eat together. Being a little upset would be an understatement. Is he embarrassed to be seen with me? I greeted P'Knott as the Auntie arrives with our food. We won't be able to get out of this....I see P'Arthit's face turning bright red. Phi quickly speaks to the auntie about ordering more meals for to-go. When the auntie leaves he sits down and starts drinking his Nomyen. At least he can still act cute... P'Knott is not talking and I am awkwardly shoveling food in my mouth and staring at P'Arthit.

When P'Knott finally asks, "Soo, I am just going to ask. Are you guys close now?". I could feel the invisible weight on my shoulders disappear. I just respond "Khrap" what took me by surprise was P'Arthit. I thought he wouldn't say anything, but he did. "Ya, why does it bother you?" "How long have you been hanging out like this? Don't say for a couple weeks because Ai'Arthit you were pretty confident that you would be served at the busiest time of the day". I couldn't believe what I just heard. P'Arthit believed in me this much. I feel a giant smile is forming on my face. Plus I could see P'Arthit is looking uncomfortable again.

It was quiet for a bit until I saw P'Bright. He was practically running towards us and he snaked his arm around P'Knott. "So you guys forgot about us in the dorm and decided to have dinner with our junior. Ai'Prem and Ai'Toot, we have been betrayed!" I thought for sure we will have to explain why were sitting here together. Unexpectedly P'Knott answered, "Ai'Bright, we already ordered the food. We are just waiting for it. We noticed Kongpob was here and decided to sit with him while we wait."

After a bit of convincing... well truthfully, I was blatantly lying to my seniors. I told them I ordered both meals to eat. I don't know how I will eat P'Arthit's meal. I am just glad they didn't force me to eat this meal as it's way too spicy for my liking. I might have to give it to M.

I was glad this time with them was not as nerve-wracking as I would of had thought. It was easy to understand the jokes and the antics of this group of hazers. I even got to say a few remarks and got a few laughs. I have been pretty stressed with the mid-term exams, so I am throughly enjoying listening to them ranting about passed exams and assignments. It made me finally understand what someone told me long before I was a freshman. These words echoed in my head as I watched my seniors chatting happily.

"The atmosphere of the campus. The atmosphere of the Engineering faculty. Professors, friends, seniors, and juniors. All of these have made me feel warm. It's like I'm at my own home."

I excused myself to go to the bathroom, but instead I paid for the whole meal. Of course, P'Arthit caught me and tried to persuade me otherwise. Normally, I would give in, but today I will not. P'Knott even tried to convince me. I left them standing by the register as I go to thank the other Phi's.

These little events have all gathered in my heart and solidified my feelings. They have become so strong that I feel at any day now they will burst. However, I understand that I must keep it inside. I just hope I can do it.