Kieran's gaze remained fixed on his reflection as he stood before the mirror. Adjusting his crisp, white long-sleeved shirt, he couldn't help but flash a contented smile at his image.
Downstairs, Hardin patiently awaited Kieran's company, while Ayne still slumbered and Pharm succumbed to another bout of sleepiness. Kieran meticulously straightened his collar, his reflection serving as a companion in that quiet moment.
"Ah, adorable Kieran," he murmured to his likeness, a hint of self-assurance in his voice. "Has P'Hardin ever told you that your smile is simply perfection? Wear it proudly, always. There's no need for sadness, Kieran." His words trailed off, carrying a gentle reassurance that echoed in the room.
Kieran's eyes remained fixed on his reflection, absorbing the words that P'Hardin had bestowed upon him. "The best smile in the entire world," he repeated, his voice tinged with a mixture of disbelief and hope. A surge of anticipation coursed through him as he pondered the impact of his captivating smile. "Would it be enough to capture the attention of the person I held dearest?"
The question lingered in his mind, teasing his thoughts with uncertainty. Kieran wondered if his smile alone possessed the power to bridge the gap between their hearts, to ignite a connection that went beyond words. At that moment, he yearned for affirmation, for the reassurance that his genuine expression could transcend the bounds of mere physical beauty.
Lost in contemplation, Kieran's eyes locked with his reflection once more. A flicker of determination sparked within him, fueling his resolve. "Yes," he whispered, his voice firm yet laden with vulnerability. "This smile will be a beacon, a testament to the depth of my affection. It will speak volumes, even when words fail me."
Kieran straightened his posture, his smile widening as if in response to his inner conviction. The reflection in the mirror became a mirror of his aspirations, a reflection of the hope that held his heart captive. "I am ready," he declared, his voice carrying a mixture of excitement and trepidation. "Ready to unveil this smile to the world, and to the person who means everything to me."
"You never spoke on my behalf," a voice interjected, breaking his train of thought.
He pivoted towards the source of the voice and recognized Hardin entering the room. Perhaps his impatience while waiting for Kieran downstairs had caused Hardin's brows to furrow. Kieran didn't need to inquire about the reason behind Hardin's displeasure; it was likely because of him. Despite being born and raised in Bangkok, Kieran was still afflicted by what they referred to as 'Filipino Time.'
"Do you have a crush? You mentioned 'the person you like the most,' indicating that this individual holds a significant place in your heart. Share it with me," Hardin approached Kieran with a smile.
Kieran had assumed that Hardin was upset with him, but that wasn't the case. Hardin was simply genuinely artistic. However, how could Kieran confess his feelings for the person he loved when that person happened to be Hardin himself?
He smiled and caressed Kieran's cheek. "Nong, you're like a child being bullied." Hardin shook his head, he said that because Kieran was backing away like a shy turtle.
"Do you know how long I've been waiting for you? What's been holding you back? You're speaking to yourself, all alone, my best friend. If you're facing a problem, confide in me. I'm here for you, your closest companion. If you're looking for someone, let me know, and I'll lend a hand. Tell me, is she beautiful, alluring? I know you have excellent taste." Hardin enveloped Kieran in his arms and playfully tweaked the bridge of his nose.
He's incredibly attractive, the epitome of perfection. It's you, P'Hardin. Kieran whispered to himself, feeling a tightness in his throat.
Kieran objected, wincing as he felt the weight of Hardin's hand on his head. He ran his fingers through his disheveled hair, attempting to restore some semblance of order. "It's because of you, you know. I had already combed it earlier," he grumbled, feigning annoyance and furrowing his brow, which only served to elicit laughter from Hardin. He couldn't quite understand Hardin's sense of humor when it came to drama.
Hardin picked up a comb from the vicinity of Kieran's expensive perfume and wordlessly began to comb through Kieran's hair. As Kieran glanced up, his eyes met Hardin's enticing lower lip, which always had a way of captivating him. Hardin's lips were undeniably one of his weaknesses, and the temptation to kiss him screamed through Kieran's mind. However, he managed to rein in his impulses.
"It's alright, Nong, you're charming," Hardin commented, affectionately squeezing both of Kieran's cheeks. "Are you feeling a bit anxious?"
Kieran's eyes widened as Hardin leaned down and pressed his ear against Kieran's chest, listening intently to his heartbeat. Kieran held his breath, unsure of what was happening.
"I can't say I'm nervous," Kieran responded, his voice shaky. "I'm quite prepared." He desperately wished he could escape the situation, yearning for wings, magic, or anything that could whisk him away from there.
"You're lying," Hardin chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Is that truly how your heart races? It's far from normal; it's as if you've been in a perpetual race."
P'Hardin, it's only you who can make my heart beat like this, Kieran confessed softly to himself, his voice filled with a mix of affection and vulnerability. It's a unique rhythm, and if you listen closely, you'll hear your name whispered within it.
Kieran reached out and gently caressed his nape, trying to find solace in his touch. "Maybe I'm just incredibly nervous," he suggested, a hint of uncertainty coloring his words.
"Ah, I understand. If you're not at ease, I'll hold your hands," Hardin offered, his voice gentle and reassuring. Taking a firm grip on Kieran's hands, he guided him out of the room, leading him toward the open air outside.
Once they were outside the house, Hardin guided Kieran's palm towards the cool breeze, allowing the soothing sensation to wash over them.
With a caring gesture, Hardin opened the passenger side of the car and assisted Kieran as he got inside. Making sure Kieran was comfortable and secure, Hardin reached across and helped him fasten his seatbelt, ensuring his safety.
Gentleman.
WHILE Hardin driving his car, he sings various Thai songs. Kieran just laughed and mocked, how could he not, especially since Hardin was out of tune?
Kieran hates Hardin when Hardin was singing because it seemed that Hardin didn't have good vocals. But Kieran loves listening to Hardin's voice when he speaks romantically. Hardin's song was for Kieran alone.
With every fleeting glance at Hardin, he would slyly wink at Kieran. Yet, Kieran found himself unable to decipher the intention behind those mischievous winks. Was he the sole recipient of Hardin's secret messages, or was he naively attributing meaning to them? Kieran couldn't help but question his perception, feeling like a fool in the process.
The car carrying Hardin made a deliberate turn, and as they continued their journey, its speed gradually decreased until the university campus came into view. Finally, the car glided into the students' parking lot, coming to a gentle stop.
Without uttering a single word, Hardin stepped out of the car, his actions speaking volumes. After a brief moment, he circled to the passenger side, his movements deliberate and purposeful. With gentle care, he reached over to unfasten Kieran's seatbelt, their eyes locking in a profound connection that set Kieran's heart racing with anticipation.
In a sudden, unexpected motion, Hardin swiftly pulled Kieran out of the car, his urgency overpowering any semblance of gentleness. Caught off guard, Kieran stumbled, his balance wavering.
But just as he was about to fall, Hardin's quick reflexes kicked in, saving him from an imminent tumble. With a firm grasp, Hardin pulled Kieran close, enveloping him in a tight embrace that spoke volumes of his remorse and regret.
Kieran's entire body quivered, overcome by a mixture of fear and vulnerability. He tightly shut his eyes, convinced that Hardin would let him slip through his grasp.
"I'm sorry, Nong," Hardin softly uttered, releasing Kieran from the embrace. Cupping Kieran's face gently in his hands, he sought to convey his regret and affection.
Kieran's eyes remained tightly shut, but the worry etched across Hardin's face began to fade. A warm smile graced Hardin's lips as he gazed upon Kieran's countenance, capturing the entirety of his face in his gaze. "I'm sorry," he repeated, the sincerity resonating in his voice.
Slowly, Kieran opened his eyes, finding solace in the return of a steady heartbeat. "I thought I was going to fall," he admitted, the tremor in his voice dissipating.
Catch me then, because I'm falling in love with you P'Hardin.
"Thanks, P'Hardin."
"Let's go, shall we?"
"We shall."