Hardin enveloped Kieran in a firm embrace, refusing to release his grip. The intensity of the hug conveyed Hardin's deep affection and reluctance to part ways with Kieran. As Kieran regained consciousness, he became aware of the excruciating pain coursing through his body, rendering him immobile and vulnerable. The weight of his injuries made even the slightest movement unbearable, further reinforcing his helplessness in that moment.
Kieran cherished the tranquility of the moment, not wanting to disturb Hardin's slumber. A warm smile graced his lips as he admired Hardin's serene countenance. The sight of Hardin's handsome features in the peacefulness of sleep captivated Kieran's gaze. Though Hardin lacked a shirt, Kieran brushed aside any thoughts that arose from the shared body heat.
He tenderly encircled his arm around Hardin's exposed form, seeking comfort and closeness. Nuzzling his face against the broad expanse of Hardin's chest, Kieran reveled in the sensation of being nestled against him, finding solace and contentment in the rhythmic thump of Hardin's heart.
Kieran's entire being melded seamlessly with the man who held his heart. He deepened his embrace around Hardin, a silent testament to the depth of his love. Suppressing his rising emotions, Kieran fought back tears that threatened to spill onto Hardin's chest.
He yearned to shield his vulnerability from Hardin's awakening gaze, determined to present a facade of strength. In the face of his own imperfections and shortcomings, Kieran found solace in the unwavering presence of Hardin by his side, a constant pillar of support and unwavering love.
Hardin was an incredible source of strength for Kieran, serving as a pillar of support in his life. Kieran deeply appreciated and wanted to express his profound gratitude for having Hardin as his boyfriend. In a world plagued by prejudice and homophobia, Kieran's self-confidence and hope for the future were often eroded.
However, Hardin played a vital role in uplifting him and helping him regain his inner strength. Their love was a mutual endeavor to uplift and empower one another. Even in the darkest moments when Kieran felt lost, Hardin was always there to guide him towards the light, providing solace and reassurance.
In the midst of their tender embrace, Kieran's tranquility was interrupted by the sudden ringing of his cell phone resting on the study table. Reluctantly, he released himself from Hardin's tight embrace, careful not to disturb his peacefully slumbering partner. With gentle movements, Kieran rose from the bed and swiftly made his way to the bathroom, desiring to maintain the blissful silence.
The caller ID displayed Arthit's name, causing a nervous flutter within Kieran's chest. A whirlwind of thoughts raced through his mind, creating a sense of unease.
"Nong, if it's possible, come home this morning. Mom and Dad are on their way-"
Kieran took a deep breath, his mind racing. He trusted Arthit implicitly, knowing that his brother would never betray him or expose the secret of his life with Hardin. Arthit couldn't bear to witness Kieran endure any more violence or harm. However, there was one person that Kieran feared might uncover their secret: Nuea. He anticipated that Nuea, with his twisted perspective, found amusement in witnessing Kieran's suffering and pain.
"Yes, I will," he replied, his voice tinged with sadness. Kieran couldn't help but wonder how his father would react upon seeing his face covered in bruises. Would his father be pleased? Throughout Kieran's entire life, his father had never shown him any comfort or love, especially since the day his secret of being bisexual was exposed.
"I'll accompany you home as well, don't worry, Nong," Arthit reassured him.
Kieran's lips curved into a smile. "Yes, please."
After conversing with his brother, Kieran exited the bathroom and swiftly dressed himself. Just as he finished getting dressed, Hardin began stirring and woke up.
"Where are you going?" Hardin asked, his voice filled with surprise and still hoarse.
"I'm heading home," Kieran replied.
"Why didn't you mention anything about leaving today? You didn't even bring it up last night or earlier," Hardin inquired, expressing his frustration.
Kieran shook his head. "You wouldn't understand."
"I don't understand. What's happening? Why are you injured like this? I won't stop asking until you tell me," Hardin insisted, stepping closer to Kieran. "Why did they hurt you, my dear?" Hardin gently kissed Kieran's forehead.
Kieran smiled weakly. "I have to go home now. Dad and Mom are on their way to Bangkok."
Understanding the situation, Hardin nodded. "I hope that one day he learns to accept you for who you are and our relationship."
Hardin's expression turned sorrowful as he exchanged glances with Kieran. "I empathize with you. My father is also quite traditional in his views. Eventually, though, they'll come to understand and accept the depth of our connection." Hardin enveloped Kieran in a heartfelt embrace, tenderly planting a kiss on his forehead. "Pom yàak jà yùu gàp khun dtà-làawt bpai," he murmured, expressing his desire to be with Kieran for eternity.
Reluctantly, Kieran began to withdraw from Hardin's embrace. "I'm afraid I must depart now," he uttered, creating a physical distance between them.
Hardin gently held Kieran's chin, their lips meeting in a heartfelt kiss that left them both breathless when they finally pulled apart. As Kieran turned to leave, he felt Hardin's swift movements as he enveloped him in a warm embrace from behind.
"I have to go," Kieran pleaded, his voice filled with a mixture of longing and uncertainty.
"Will you return?" Hardin's voice held a hint of desperation, his fingers tightening their grip around Kieran.
Kieran grappled with the weight of the question, the uncertainty of what lay ahead in the coming days. His chest constricted with conflicting emotions. "I'll do everything in my power," he murmured, his voice tinged with a sense of resignation.
"In two days, we will have been together as lovers for a month. Shouldn't we celebrate?" Hardin's hopeful words hung in the air, causing a thorny lump to form in Kieran's throat.
"Yes," Kieran replied, his voice barely a whisper, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions.
"Pom rak khun," Hardin expressed his love, his voice filled with sincerity.
Kieran's eyes welled up with tears as he felt Hardin release his grip. He turned away, descending the stairs with each step heavy and laden with sorrow. He resisted the urge to look back, knowing it would only intensify the ache in his chest. The tears streamed down his face as he walked away from the house, desperately hailing a passing taxi, seeking solace in its anonymity.