Kieran couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions as he gazed into Hardin's charming eyes, and a sweet smile on Hardin's lips only added to the intensity of the moment. Kieran's heart raced in his chest like a drumbeat as he found himself staring at Hardin's strikingly good-looking face.
Although Kieran had always admired Hardin's handsome features from afar, having him so close now was almost too much to handle.
He felt a sudden urge to kiss Hardin, but he knew that doing so would reveal his true feelings and possibly jeopardize their living situation in the same apartment.
Kieran decided it was best to be cautious and not act on his impulse. Hardin, sensing the tension in the air, straightened up and let out a deep breath.
"Hey, dinner is ready and it's set up perfectly. Let's go," said Hardin, as he wrapped his arm around Kieran's shoulder and the two of them began to walk towards the dining area.
Kieran didn't mind the weight of Hardin's arm on his shoulder and enjoyed the closeness between them.
As they made their way, Ayne and Pharm looked up to see the two of them approaching. Ayne's expression was one of curiosity as if she was wondering about the nature of their relationship, while Pharm had a smile on his lips, perhaps enjoying the sight of the two of them together.
Under the shade of the beautiful cassia fistula tree, they settled down at the table to enjoy their dinner. The spread before them was a mouth-watering feast - succulent grilled chicken, flavorful pork Tocino, aromatic Gaeng Keow wan, and the fresh crunch of Pak Boong paired with fragrant Khao pad.
The food was served with a crisp white Malage, which added a subtle sweetness to the meal and perfectly complemented the romantic ambiance of the evening.
As they savored each bite, they engaged in meaningful conversation, basking in the warm glow of each other's company. The soft rustle of leaves above and the gentle chirping of crickets added to the serene atmosphere, making it a truly magical experience.
Kieran was curious and asked about the preparation of the Gaeng Keow Wan he had just eaten. He wondered if it was homemade or purchased from a restaurant. The dish left a lasting impression on him because it was the first time he had tasted spicy vegetables that were cooked to perfection.
Hardin beamed with pride as he raised his hand and announced himself as the designated chef. He had a passion for cooking and considered himself a master in the culinary arts.
Kieran couldn't help but chuckle and jokingly called, "Nah, a self-proclaimed chef."
Hardin was quick to defend his skills and proudly declared that he had prepared all the food they were enjoying. Ayne and Pharm looked on, confused by the conversation, as Hardin was speaking in Filipino.
"Here, try it," Hardin said as he moved closer to Kieran, offering him a taste of his culinary creation. His confidence in his cooking skills was evident, and Kieran couldn't wait to sample the dish.
Kieran accepted that and Kieran nodded.
"See? Is it delicious?" he asked, eagerly awaiting Kieran's response.
"Good," Kieran replied after taking a bite.
"Good?" Hardin was curious. "Just good?"
Kieran quickly corrected himself, "No, it's perfect."
Hardin beamed with pride at Kieran's compliment. "Like one hundred percent?" he asked, seeking confirmation.
Before Kieran could respond, Ayne chimed in, "The food was freaking delicious. Stop pretending that you don't like it, Nong'Kieran."
Kieran was taken aback by Ayne's comment and quickly protested, "Damn you, I wasn't saying that I don't like it."
Kieran continued eating and didn't say a word again. He just distracted himself with eating and ignored them. When they finished eating, Hardin put away their plates and mess.
Kieran poured a generous amount of wine into a crystal glass, its burgundy hues shimmering in the light hanging in the tree. He placed the bottle on the nearby table and walked towards the edge of the pool, the cool tiles soothing beneath his feet. He sat down and dangled his legs, enjoying the refreshing feeling of the water lapping at his toes.
Lost in thought, Kieran savored the rich aroma and silky texture of the wine, letting the flavors dance on his tongue. He gazed out at the sprawling estate, taking in the lush foliage and the distant sound of cicadas. The tranquility of the scene was interrupted only by the occasional splash from the pool.
After a few minutes, Kieran turned his attention back to where Ayne and Pharm had been sitting, but they had vanished. His brow furrowed in confusion, wondering where they could have gone so quickly. He took another sip of wine, relishing in its smoothness, as he scanned the pool area.
As the minutes ticked by, Kieran remained silent, lost in his thoughts. The only sound was the gentle lapping of the water and the occasional cicada sounds. He finished the last of his wine and set the glass down, admiring the way the light danced through it.
Kieran continued to sit by the pool, pondering the mysteries of life, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. He knew that he had nowhere else to be, and the soothing ambiance of the estate was enough to keep him content.
"Alone? Pharm and Ayne went out." Hardin smiled and sat next to Kieran and dips both feet in the water. He gave Kieran a bottle of beer and it was already open. Kieran accepted the beer. "Isn't it beautiful?" Hardin looked up at the sky. A peaceful starry night sky met his eyes.
"Yes, perfect and calm," Kieran answered sparingly. Kieran rested his head on Hardin's shoulder. "Do you believe that friendship is not permanent?" he suddenly asked Hardin. He heard Hardin sigh.
"I don't know," Hardin said coldly.
He smiled. "And if time separates us will you make your way to find me again as your best friend?"
"Yes, I will."
"We pinky promise?"
"Yes we pinky promise," he said and they linked their pinky fingers together. At the same time, he suddenly hugged her.