Chapter Text
Thomas’ condo smelled faintly of popcorn and fabric softener, the windows cracked just enough to let in a breeze and the hum of late afternoon traffic. Kong was lying sideways on the couch with his legs lazily stretched over Thomas’ lap, scrolling through his phone while Thomas flipped through Netflix options like it was an Olympic event.
“This way we won’t watch anything any time soon,” Kong muttered, not looking up from his phone. “Just pick something.”
Thomas didn’t glance away from the TV, rolling his eyes instead. “You said no to the last six I showed you.”
“They were all loud and boring. I want something worth watching.”
A snort came from Thomas, who tossed the remote on the cushion close to Kong. “ Fine , then you pick something.”
“I’m busy.”
“You’re doomscrolling.”
Kong gasped dramatically, looking at Thomas before turning his attention back to his phone. “I’m multitasking,” he said, biting into the last piece of popcorn. “Judging your taste and scrolling!”
“Then don’t complain about my choices.”
“Sure, sure.”
While trying to find the perfect movie for them to watch, Thomas noticed how Kong’s phone kept buzzing and how the boy kept ignoring the notifications coming from it. He raised an eyebrow, curious, especially when Kong groaned almost dramatically.
“What’s up?”
Kong sat up, crossing his legs over the couch. “Annoying messages.”
“Classmates?”
“Kinda. I don’t know if you remember Min, from my seminar?” Thomas nodded, vaguely recalling it. “He’s very nice and sweet, we got coffee a few times, but he keeps insisting on watching a movie with me.”
“And you’re hesitating.”
“I don’t know,” Kong shrugged. “He’s not weird or anything. It’s just…”
“Just?”
“I don’t feel that thing.”
“What thing?”
“The spark. The impulse. Whatever people call the thing we’re supposed to feel when we want to date someone.”
Thomas nodded. He could understand it. “So don’t go.”
“But what if I’m just being picky? Or, I don’t know. Maybe I should give him a chance?”
“Do you feel like it?”
“Not actually.”
“Then you have your answer,” Thomas said, calmly. “You don’t have to do anything you don’t feel like, N’Kong.”
Kong tilted his head, half-smiling. “That’s suspiciously supportive.”
“I have my moments,” they laughed. Then Thomas added, “Maybe you should just date me instead. Problem solved.”
Kong snorted, tossing a pillow at him. “Right. My best friend who watches golf videos while eating cereal and calls it ‘fine dining’.”
“Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.”
“I have. You made me. It was the most boring moment of my life.”
Thomas grinned. “You loved it.”
The younger shook his head, but the corners of his mouth tugged up. “Maybe I’ll just stay single forever. Less effort. No expectations.”
“You do you, N’Kong.” Thomas leaned back, resting his hand casually on Kong’s thigh. “You’re going to TeeTee’s party on Saturday?’
“Yeah. You?”
“Obviously. Who else is gonna stop you from talking shit after a bit of alcohol in your system?”
“You love when I talk shit.”
“ Maybe . But don’t tell anyone,” Thomas said, thumb tracing a lazy circle on Kong’s exposed skin.
“Secret’s safe with me,” Kong murmured, letting his phone on the cushion next to him. “Now, put something on. If I hear the Netflix menu music loop one more time, I’m leaving.”
Thomas chuckled and picked up the remote again, but didn’t bother moving his hand from Kong’s thigh.
🌻
Thomas buttoned the last clasp of his black shirt, smoothing it down with one hand. It fit snug around his shoulders, sleeves rolled up to his forearms, collar just slightly open like an accident on purpose. His hair was freshly styled, neat but not too neat, still holding a slight wave like he hadn’t tried too hard. He checked his reflection once, then again, tugged at his sleeves, sighed and grabbed his phone.
[Thomas 9:34 pm]: omw. you better be ready.
[N’Kong 9:34 pm]: yes sir 🫡
Thomas called a cab, not taking too long to be waiting on the front of Kong’s house. He chewed his lip, feeling a bit nervous — Thomas wasn’t a big fan of parties, but he always kept Kong company, taking care of him — and typed on his phone.
[Thomas 9:57 pm]: i’m here.
[N’Kong 9:57 pm]: comingggg
Kong stepped out in a charcoal-gray shirt tucked into slim black pants, silver rings on his fingers and his hair styled just enough to show his forehead. Effortless. Dangerous. Gorgeous.
“You look like trouble,” Thomas said the moment Kong slid into the cab.
“You look like you’re trying to look like you’re not trying.”
“I am trying.”
“I know.”
They bumped shoulders in the backseat. The cab smelled like mint gum and fabric cleaner. Thomas’ knee brushed Kong’s once.
Neither moved.
🌻
The party was already in full swing when they arrived — TeeTee’s house buzzing with music and overlapping voices, friends lounging across couches and spilling into the kitchen.
“P’Kong!” TeeTee squealed, pulling him into a hug before turning to Thomas with equal excitement. “And P’Thomas! Our favorite introvert.”
Thomas raised an eyebrow. “You say that like I’m not here against my will.”
“You say that like you’re not here to watch Kong’s back like a bodyguard.” Por laughed, appearing beside them with a drink already in hand.
Patji leaned over In’s shoulder. “I give it two hours before they get all clingy.”
“Ten minutes,” In said.
Thomas rolled his eyes, already grabbing a wine glass. “You’re all very original.”
Kong handed him the bottle. “We’re starting soft. We’ve learned things.”
Thomas poured for both of them. “Like that you’ll throw up if someone hands you a tequila shot after 10 pm.”
“Exactly.”
They stayed side by side, sitting on the same armrest, occasionally slipping to the floor when the music got too loud or when someone stole their seat. People moved in and out of their orbit — Save with chaotic stories from his new job, AuAu trying to get everyone to play a drinking game no one understood, a classmate who tried flirting with Kong, but gave up when noticed Thomas’ arms around Kong’s waist.
Another guy asked Thomas if he wanted to dance, only to retreat when Kong leaned into Thomas’ side, wine glass in hand, murmuring something close to his ear that made the older man laugh.
Nunew teased them about it, saying no one would want to try to approach them if they kept acting as a couple .
“I’m not doing this on purpose,” Thomas said, as he refilled their glasses.
“I am,” Kong replied, smirking. “It’s funny.”
A slow music started to play and they found themselves swaying together in the middle of the room, still holding their glasses. Kong supported himself on Thomas’ side, trying not to trip on his own feet.
“You’re getting tipsy,” Thomas observed, feeling the younger’s forehead on his shoulder.
“You’re warm,” was Kong’s reply.
Patji and In passed by, giggling.
“Seriously,” Patji said, “ just date already .”
Kong raised his head from where it was being supported and rolled his eyes to Pat, but stayed close to Thomas.
“We’re allergic to romance, remember?”
“Tragic.” In winked and vanished into the crowd.
Later, still dancing, still pressed close, Thomas looked down at Kong. The boy was flushed and loose-limbed, a little dazed from the wine. His hair had come undone and he was smiling for no reason at all.
Thomas was well aware of his best friend’s beauty — he had eyes, for fuck’s sake — and how people always wanted to be close to him. Kong had this aura around him, something that attracted people with no effort needed. It was just… natural .
Kong tilted his head, making his face more visible to Thomas. His lips were redder, most probably because of the wine, and they glistened against the flickering colorful lights.
How would they feel?
“Would it be weird if I kissed you?” The question escaped his lips before he could stop himself. Kong’s reaction, however, wasn’t what he expected — the younger one blinked, laughing softly.
“I mean… maybe?”
There was no disgust or judgement. It was an honest reply, and it made Thomas more comfortable to be honest as well.
“I want to.”
There was a hum coming from Kong’s chest, before he leaned forward until their foreheads brushed. “Okay.”
The kiss wasn’t dramatic. It was warm, slightly off-center and tasted like wine. Kong smiled against it, then kissed him back, slow and curious. It deepened without either of them really trying — fingers tangling in the shirt fabric, hands brushing cheeks, a quiet heat between them that didn’t feel like falling or rushing. It just was .
When they finally broke apart, Thomas looked at Kong with raised brows.
“That felt… not weird.”
“Yeah.”
A pause.
“Wanna crash at mine?” Thomas asked, casually, like it was any other night.
“Obviously.”
🌻
The condo was quiet, the faint hum of the city outside the only noise besides their mismatched footsteps as they walked in. Kong was giggling softly about something someone said at the party, cheeks flushed from the wine and Thomas found himself watching him too closely.
They’d kissed.
And it wasn’t weird.
It should’ve been, right? Friends didn’t kiss. Friends shouldn’t hold each other’s waists and dance close and kiss like that in the middle of a party.
Thomas tugged at the collar of his shirt, suddenly hot. His lips still tingled. He kept glancing at Kong, like maybe he could find an answer there.
But Kong didn’t seem shaken. Just tipsy and amused and, God, so pretty.
Thomas cleared his throat, pacing to the kitchen, grabbing two glasses of water out of habit while Kong leaned on his counter, resting his chin on his palm. He watched Thomas pour water for them — his brows frowned and his shoulders tense — and sighed.
“You’re overthinking.”
The phrase made Thomas blink a few times before looking back to Kong. “What?”
“That thing you do,” Kong tilted his head, now resting his cheek on his hand, meeting Thomas’ eyes. “You’ve been quiet since we left.”
A sigh escaped Thomas and he left the glasses on the sink, getting close to Kong, seemingly hesitant. He rubbed his neck, feeling the skin pricking in his touch.
“I… We just… kissed.”
Kong arched an eyebrow. “Yeah.”
“And that’s not… weird to you?”
“It’s not the first time I kissed a friend, to be honest, so no,” Kong shrugged. “But it can be weird to you. We can forget it happened.”
The information was kind of new to Thomas, but not really surprising. Kong has always been a natural flirt and very affectionate with all of their friends — he liked to hug, to hold hands, to rest his chin on their shoulders, to touch .
At first, when they became friends, Thomas tensed — he wasn’t used to touching — and he worried Kong could be crushing on him, but then he realized that was just how Kong was and relaxed.
It was easy to get used to him. So easy that now Thomas complained when he didn't get a hug or when Kong was too far from him.
“I don’t want to forget,” Thomas said, his eyes roaming Kong’s face — his pink cheeks, his big and round brown eyes, his bangs falling over his forehead, his plump lips, still tinted by wine. “I liked it. And I kind of want to do it again.”
Kong didn’t respond at first, he just blinked lazily while a smirk bloomed on his lips. He straightened, circling the counter until he got in front of Thomas. Their eyes met and, for a second, Thomas forgot how to breathe.
“Okay,” it was the only thing Kong said before curling his hand around the back of Thomas’ neck, fingers crawling in the dark strands of his hair.
And then, he kissed him.
It was slower than the one at the party. Less laughter, more warmth. The kind of kiss that curled in the pit of Thomas’ stomach and turned his knees soft. He moved closer, hands sliding over Kong’s waist, over a familiar territory that felt suddenly new.
They didn’t even realize when they started walking while kissing until they stumbled onto the couch, still tangled in each other. Kong laughed into his mouth when Thomas nearly fell over him, catching himself just in time to press Kong down into the cushions.
Thomas hovered above him, not resisting the urge to bury his face in Kong’s neck.
“Is this a terrible idea?” he asked against the younger’s warm skin, kissing it slowly, like he could get an answer from that.
Kong laughed softly, curling his fingers on Thomas’ shirt. “Maybe. I kinda like terrible ideas.”
The couch shifted beneath them as they kissed harder — clumsy, off-rhythm, but good. So good.
Kong’s shirt ended up on the floor. Then Thomas’. They fumbled with their pants, laughing when Kong almost kicked Thomas off the couch trying to get his leg free.
“You’re going to break something,” Thomas warned between kisses. “Maybe we should go to the bedroom.”
“Your bed’s too far,” Kong whined.
“We’re not doing this on my expensive throw blanket.”
“We are ,” that was what Kong said before grabbing him by the belt loops and pulling him down.
There was no plan. Just instinct. Just them. Their laughter softened into sighs and startled moans, kisses landing on shoulders and hips, teeth grazing skiing just to see what kind of noise it would pull. They tried things they hadn’t before, teasing each other softly. When Kong blushed at his own boldness, Thomas just grinned and kissed him again, gentle and teasing.
It wasn’t perfect. But it felt right .
Somewhere in the middle of it, Thomas whispered against Kong’s chest, “This feels good.”
It was. Kong arched into his touch, closing his eyes at the feeling.
“Yeah, it does.”
Their bodies moved in sync, lazy and warm and half-drunk with each other. Nothing was rushed. They kissed through the clumsy parts, laughed through the pauses, whispered nonsense into skin just because they could.
Eventually, the heat simmered down into slow, open-mouthed kisses and quiet gasps. Thomas’ forehead pressed against Kong’s, both of them panting, their limbs tangled in a mess of denim and throw pillows. The room was hot and dim and silent, save for the sound of their breathing.
Thomas rolled onto his side, pulling Kong with him. Their legs remained intertwined.
Kong let out a muffled groan into Thomas’ bare shoulder. “My back is going to hate me tomorrow.”
“That’s not the couch’s fault,” Thomas laughed. “That’s what happens when you don’t stretch or work out.”
Kong lifted his head just to glare at him, hair falling over his eyes. “You’re literally an athlete. Your idea of exercise is punishing. I walk a lot.”
“To the fridge doesn’t count,” Thomas teased, laughing louder when Kong pinched his waist.
“Fuck you,” he muttered, smirking as he dropped his head back down.
“I already did.”
Kong gasped, indignant, and smacked Thomas’ arm lightly. “Rude.”
“You walked into that one.”
The younger man didn’t change. He just sighed, cheek smushed against Thomas’ chest, listening to his heartbeat start to slow. They didn’t say anything for a while, but it wasn’t awkward. Just quiet. Easy .
Eventually, Kong murmured, voice heavy with sleep, “You okay with this?”
Thomas looked down at him, brushing his fingers through Kong’s hair, tucking them behind his ear. “Yeah. I’m okay.”
Kong blinked up at him, lips curving in a lazy smile. “Okay.”
🌻
It was just another night.
The kind they’d had a dozen times before: a movie half-playing in the background, takeout containers scattered across Thomas’ coffee table, Kong curled up in his usual spot on the couch like he lived there — and it was a half-truth. Most of the time, Kong would go to Thomas’ condo after classes and even on the weekends because “it’s so boring to be alone” .
Thomas sat on the floor, leaning back against the edge of the couch with a drink in hand and hair still damp from the shower. Kong was talking, animated as always, his voice rising and falling as he told some ridiculous story, his feet nudging Thomas’ arm every so often to make sure he was paying attention.
Things between them hadn’t changed. At least, not in the way Thomas thought it would. There were no awkward silences, no tiptoeing around each other.
After that night, in the morning, Kong woke up and complained about his sore back, joking Thomas had to pay him the most expensive massage therapist he could find to compensate for his pain. He acted exactly like he would do: teasing about Thomas’ habit of listening to podcasts while eating breakfast, stealing the last bite of his food, kicking his feet up on the coffee table like he owned the place.
It was normal. Familiar.
And yet. Thomas noticed something different.
Kong was his best friend for the last two years and they got close really fast — although Thomas was an introvert to the core, Kong was the definition of a social butterfly and it was easy to give in to him. They were really different from each other, but they still clicked.
However, during these years, Thomas never felt so close to Kong as he was feeling at that moment. Since that night, he felt Kong more relaxed around him, and vice-versa. It was like the invisible wall that stood between them fell apart and they could be totally free.
They hadn’t really talked about that night. They just kept going — the same rhythm, the same banter, the same ease that had always lived between them. But now it felt different, deeper .
“So then Bank calls me in the middle of dinner , and he’s like, ‘Ai-Kong, do you know what’s my part on the project?’, and I’m literally holding a spoon of curry to my mouth,” he said, exasperated. “Like, he took a whole month to get interested enough on the project to come ask what he was supposed to do?”
“Oh, well.” Thomas chuckled.
“You’re mocking my pain,” Kong whined, leaning until his face was almost on Thomas’ level. “That’s why I have trust issues.”
Thomas looked at him, letting his eyes wander. Kong wasn’t just beautiful — though he was, effortlessly so. It was the way he felt . The comfort of him. The way Thomas could sit in silence next to him and not feel the need to fill it. The way Kong spoke so freely now, sharing pieces of himself that felt like secrets. Soft ones. Quiet ones.
“Hey, P’Tho,” Kong shook a hand in front of Thomas’ eyes. “You listening to me?”
“Yes, sorry.”
“Fine. Am I boring you?”
“Of course not.” Thomas laughed. “Isn’t Bank the one you went on a date with?”
“Nah, he was the guy’s friend. I think his name was Oat,” Kong paused, then huffed a laugh, like the memory had just hit him again. “No, but listen. This guy actually brought his mom on our first date.”
Thomas blinked, taken aback. “Wait, what? His mom? ”
“I’m serious. She just sat there, right next to us. Ate fries. Asked me what my GPA was.”
The information made Thomas laugh loudly, startled. “You’re kidding.”
“I wish,” Kong said, dragging a hand through his hair and sitting next to Thomas. “She was sweet, but like… What I was supposed to do? Flirt across the table while his mom was cutting her burger with a fork and knife?”
“You really attract the weird ones.”
Kong gave him a slow look. “ You slept with me.”
“Exactly, my type is disaster.”
Kong snorted, a soft, genuine sound that made Thomas’ lips tug into a smile. He leaned back against the couch, shoulder brushing Thomas’ lightly. The air between them felt easy, unforced. Even the mention of that night hadn’t shifted anything. It didn’t feel weird.
It felt… okay.
Thomas turned his head slightly. “So… did you like him?”
“Who?” Kong looked over, brow raised. “Oat?”
Thomas nodded. “Yeah. I mean, even with the mom situation, why didn’t you try again? Like, just the two of you.”
Kong hummed, tilting his head back like he was thinking it over. “I guess I thought about it. He was nice. Funny, kind of cute in a weird way. Attractive.”
Thomas watched him carefully.
“But I didn’t feel anything. Not really.” Kong sighed, gaze drifting to the ceiling. “It was just another date, you know? Another maybe. Another almost. And then it just… faded.”
Silence wrapped around them, soft and full.
“I used to think there was something wrong with me,” he said, suddenly. Kong’s voice was low, almost like it wasn’t meant to be heard. “Everyone always talked about falling in love, like… they just knew . But I never did. I’d go on dates and sometimes it was nice. I thought ‘ Finally, I’m in love ’, but then. I was never sure.”
Thomas stayed quiet, heart aching a little. He looked at Kong’s profile — the gentle curve of his jaw, the faint crease between his brows. He looked so still.
“I’d try to convince myself,” Kong continued, fingers fidgeting with a loose thread on his hoodie. “Because that’s what I was supposed to feel, right? I mean, everyone else seemed to get it. So I thought maybe I just wasn’t trying hard enough. Like if I just gave it time, it’d click.”
He paused, breath trembling just slightly.
“But it never did,” Kong whispered. “And after a while, I stopped telling people when I liked someone. I wasn’t even sure if I did.”
Thomas’ chest felt too tight for words. He related to Kong somehow.
“And then it started messing with how I saw my friends too,” the younger man continued, voice thinner now. “Like, I’d get close to someone, and I’d feel so much for them. Affection, comfort, care. And then I’d panic. Was that a crush? Was I falling in love? Was I leading them on? I couldn’t tell the difference.”
His hands stilled in his lap.
“So I pulled away. Not all at once, but enough. Enough to keep people at just the right distance, where I wouldn’t confuse myself. Where they wouldn’t get hurt if I got things wrong.”
Thomas wanted to reach for him. Just… hold his hand, or touch his shoulder. Something . But at the same time, he didn’t want to disrupt Kong from whatever was going on his mind.
“I grew up hearing all these stories,” Kong continued. “About soulmates and fireworks and knowing the second you saw someone. And I kept waiting for that feeling, but it never came. Not like they said it should.”
He finally turned to look at Thomas, eyes dark and open and quiet.
“I don’t think I’m broken. Not anymore,” he said, softly. “But I do think I’m built differently. I’m just still trying to figure out what that means.”
Thomas swallowed around the lump in his throat. “You don’t have to figure it all out right away.”
Kong’s lips curved into a small smile. “Yeah. But it's nice… talking about it.”
Thomas smiled back, gentle. “It's nice listening.”
They stayed like that, in the quiet. Kong laid his head on Thomas’ shoulder, feeling the weight on his back lighten a bit more. Thomas shifted slightly, staring at the rug for a moment, then let out a breath.
“I used to fake crushes,” he said, making Kong raise his head and look at him.
“What?”
“In high school,” Thomas gave a small, sheepish smile. “Everyone around me was obsessed with someone. It was all anyone talked about: who liked who, who was dating who, who kissed who behind the gym. And I felt… left out. Wrong, I guess. So I just picked someone random and said I liked them. Made it easier.”
Kong’s eyes softened, the kind of softness that made Thomas feel seen in a way he hadn’t expected.
“I got attracted to people, I’d hook up and stuff, but I never felt that want to be with them longer, you know?” Thomas continued. “I cared about people, I got attached, but that whole falling-in-love-with-a-look thing? Never happened. I thought maybe it was just me being cold, hard to get.”
“You’re not cold, P’Tho,” Kong said, immediately.
“Yeah, took me a while to believe that,” he sighed. “I think the closest I got from falling in love was in my last year of high school. I had this friend, we were really close to each other. She was fun and beautiful, we had a lot in common. When it came to romance, I thought maybe we would make a great couple.”
“But…?”
“When I felt we were getting closer and I thought I was finally feeling something, she got a boyfriend and we kinda grew apart.”
Kong didn’t say anything right away. He just looked at Thomas, as if seeing something in him he hadn’t before — not something new, but something Thomas had only now dared to show.
“Did it hurt?” He asked, voice gentle.
Thomas shook his head slowly. “Not really. I was sad, but not heartbroken, I guess. More like… disappointed in myself. Like I’d missed a moment I should’ve felt more in.”
Kong hummed, laying his head back on Thomas’ shoulder again. “I think that’s the worst kind of sadness. When you’re not even sure what you lost.”
Thomas let the silence stretch between them, warm and quiet. Kong’s weight on his shoulder felt steady. Familiar. Safe.
They stayed like that for a while until Kong shifted a bit, murmuring, “Do we have time for another movie?”
“Yeah, of course.”
“Okay, you pick this time. But no weird sad stuff.”
“Fine. Comedy. But you can’t fall asleep ten minutes in again.”
“No promises,” Kong said through a yawn, but he curled closer anyway, knees brushing Thomas’ thigh, limbs overlapping just enough to blur the space between them.
🌻
It wasn t their usual weekend plan, but somehow it fit.
They’d spent the afternoon at a quiet little library cafe Thomas had found. Hidden in a backstreet, full of secondhand books and the smell of old paper and fresh cinnamon rolls, it was the kind of place where time felt slower.
Kong had resisted at first — complaining about how he’d rather be at Thomas’ condo, watching whatever movie they’d choose — but now he sat across from Thomas, a half-empty cup of iced chocolate at his side, head bent over a worn poetry book.
They weren’t even reading the same thing, but their feet brushed under the table, knees occasionally knocking when Kong shifted.
Kong sighed dramatically, flipping a page with more force than necessary.
“This is so pretentious,” he mumbled, not bothering to lower his voice even in the hushed quiet of the library.
Thomas snorted into his coffee. “Maybe it’s just too deep for your brain, N’Kong.”
“I’m very deep, thank you.” Kong shot back, tilting his chin up, which only made Thomas roll his eyes.
“Sure you are.”
Kong narrowed his eyes at him, poking Thomas’ foot under the table, harder this time, like a warning. Thomas grinned, but didn’t move away. Actually, he pressed back, their shoes nudging under the table, playing a quiet little game only they could see.
It was stupid. Familiar. The kind of thing they’d always done.
But for some reason, Thomas noticed it more now — the way Kong’s lips tugged into a pout when he was annoyed, how the corner of his mouth curled when he was trying not to smile.
He noticed the way Kong sat, sprawled and comfortable like he owned the space around him, like he belonged there, like he belonged with Thomas.
He never used to think about these things. Never used to feel them this way.
Of course, he thought Kong was cute, and handsome, and attractive. Thomas had eyes , but these thoughts lingered a bit longer, in a more intense way. He set his book down, pretending to read the title of the poetry Kong was complaining about, but his eyes stayed on Kong’s face.
It was subtle. Slow. Like something blooming at the back of his mind that he didn’t know what to do with yet.
It felt… sharper, warmer . Like something had shifted when he wasn’t paying attention.
“What?” Kong looked up at him, suspicious.
“Nothing,” he said, way too quickly.
Kong raised an eyebrow.
“You were staring again.”
“You have something on your face,” Thomas lied, holding back a smile when Kong immediately wiped his mouth, frowning.
“Where?”
“Your whole face.”
A groan escaped from Kong’s lips, who threw a balled-up napkin at him. “You’re an idiot.”
Thomas caught the napkin mid-air, laughing. “But you love me anyways.”
“Yeah, unfortunately I do,” Kong’s mouth quirked into a small smile.
Oh.
For a moment, Thomas held his breath. It wasn’t something new — Kong had said he loves Thomas before —, but he felt differently. His heart skipped a beat and his hands felt clammy for some reason.
The moment passed just like in a blink of an eye, and they slipped back into their usual banter. But Thomas couldn’t ignore what happened — the way he wanted to keep looking at Kong, being close to him, to listen to his voice and laugh.
It wasn’t something loud or overwhelming.
It was quiet, slow, safe.
Just like Kong.
He didn’t understand it all yet. Maybe… he didn’t have to.
Not yet.
🌻
Thomas barely registered the low hum of the lecture room. The professor’s voice became background noise as he abstently doodled on his iPad.
He didn’t even realize he was sketching Kong’s face.
Again.
He groaned under his breath, flipping the iPad case, as if that would erase the heat prickling at the back of his neck. It wasn’t the first time this week. Lately, it felt like every tiny thing Kong did stuck to him than it should.
His laugh. His ridiculous habit of adding extra sugar to his iced chocolate. The way his hair curled at the nape of his neck when he forgot to dry it properly.
Thomas had always noticed those things. But now? Now it clung to him like static, making his chest tight and his thoughts foggy. And worse: his mind kept leading those innocent thoughts to that night .
The way Kong kissed him, soft and teasing, like he was challenging Thomas to keep up. The way his hands roamed his skin, but it never felt rushed or demanding. Just… warm, grounding.
He remembered the sound Kong made when Thomas bit his lower lip. How his breath hitched when Thomas traced his back with his own lips, slow and careful, like he was afraid of overstepping.
It wasn’t just the physical part — even if yeah, that had been good —, but it was how he felt about it. Easy. Natural.
Safe.
And that’s what confused him the most.
Thomas had hookups before. They were fun, hot, sometimes messy, sometimes forgettable. But they never lingered enough to make him question anything.
That night with Kong, however, was different. It stayed with him. Every touch felt like it settled deeper under his skin, like Kong was rewiring him from the inside out and Thomas didn’t even know when that had started happening.
He rubbed his face, frustrated. What the hell was wrong with him?
“Thomas?” A voice snapped him out of his daze. He blinked up at his seatmate, Fern, who was looking at him with a knowing grin.
“You’re daydreaming again. That serious?” Fern wiggled his eyebrows.
“I’m just tired,” Thomas rolled his eyes. “Nothing serious.”
“Huh. Tired looks a lot like love-sick these days.”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
Fern leaned closer, lowering his voice. “Come on, you’re so obvious. Who is it? Someone from class? The girl you were talking to the other day?”
“What you mean by obvious?”
“Are you kidding me?”
“No.”
“You never fell in love before!?” Fern gasped, hand over his chest like Thomas had just confessed a mortal sin
“What’s the big deal?”
“You look like someone punched you right in the chest, man.”
Thomas huffed a laugh, more out of reflex than amusement. “Maybe they did.”
“Okay, look. It’s easy to know when you’re in love,” Fern said, assuming a serious expression. “Let’s make a checklist.”
Fern got his own iPad and started writing something down.
- You can’t stop thinking about them
- You feel giddy when you think of them
- Your heart beats faster when you’re with them
- You catch yourself staring at them
- They’re the first person you go to share good news
- You find their quirks endearing
- It’s easy to laugh and smile around them
- You want to touch them
- It’s easy to plan the future ahead with them
“Read this,” handing his iPad to Thomas, Fern leaned closer, watching his reactions.
Thomas stared at the glowing screen, each line pressing against his chest like a weight.
You can’t stop thinking about them. Yeah, that checked. Way too much lately.
You feel giddy when you think of them. Giddy? Maybe not giddy, but there was something. A quiet buzz in his chest, a warmth he couldn’t name. Was that the same thing?
Your heart beats faster when you’re with them. He thought of the way Kong nudged his foot under the table, the way their knees brushed, the way his stomach twisted into knots whenever Kong leaned too close.
Okay. That one too.
You catch yourself staring at them. He snorted. Sketching his damn face on his iPad. Check.
They’re the first person you go to share good news. Thomas frowned.
Huh. Kong was the first. Always. Even when he didn’t mean to, his thumb hovered over Kong’s name first.
But that’s a thing best friends do, isn’t it?
You find their quirks endearing. He rolled his eyes to himself. Kong’s quirks drove him insane, but… yeah, they were also stupidly endearing.
It’s easy to laugh and smile around them. Kong made him smile without even trying. Sometimes just sitting next to him was enough.
You want to touch them. Thomas swallowed thickly. Images of that night rushed back, uninvited, vivid. The kisses. The heat of Kong’s skin under his palms. But it wasn’t just about sex. It was the casual touches too, like how his hands always found its way to Kong’s wrist or shoulder, like some magnetic pull.
Shit.
It’s easy to plan the future ahead with them.
Thomas blinked. He never thought about the future with anyone. But… he wouldn’t mind being with Kong for a long time.
They already spent more time together than apart. Kong liked to sleep over in Thomas' condo — Your bed is more comfy, P’Tho! — and they always had their movie weekends scheduled, even when they didn’t watch a thing. Thomas made sure to always pick up Kong from his classes and also give him a ride whenever he needed, just because.
Spending more time with Kong wouldn’t feel… suffocating or out of place. Instead, it would feel familiar, safe .
“Dude, your face is hilarious right now,” Fern said, breaking his spiral. “Looks like your brain just short-circuited.”
Thomas shoved the iPad back into Fern’s hands, his ears burning. “That list is bullshit.”
“Sure, sure,” Fern laughed, leaning back on his chair. “Whatever helps you sleep at night, lover boy .”
Thomas crossed his arms, staring at the blank wall ahead, trying to will away the mess inside his head.
Was that really what this was? Love?
He always thought it would hit him like a punch, like fire, something loud and unmistakable. But he didn’t feel like that. This feeling was slow, quiet. Like it had always been there, patiently waiting for him to notice.
And maybe that was why it scared him the most.
🌻
The rooftop bar buzzed with the comfortable chaos that always followed their group. Patji and TeeTee were arguing over some new drama series, while AuAu and Save tried to cheat at cards. Por was dramatically live-tweeting everything, claiming it was for “archival purposes”.
Kong sat across from Thomas, legs sprawled out, holding his beer in one hand and gesturing animatedly as he teased In.
It was loud and stupid and familiar , but Thomas barely registered any of it. Because now that his brain was aware of that damn thing — this thing he felt for Kong — it made his body hyperconscious of every little detail.
The way Kong’s smile came easy while talking with their friends. The way his hair fell over his forehead in a messy, sweat-dump curl. The way his laughter — that loud and unabashed cackle — echoed straight into Thomas’ chest like it belonged there.
You want to touch them.
You can’t stop staring at them.
Your heart beats faster when you’re with them.
Yeah. Check, check, double check.
Thomas rubbed the back of his neck, scowling at himself. It was ridiculous. He’d always noticed Kong’s quirks, but now it felt… exposed. Like he was looking at Kong under new lenses, everything hitting sharper, deeper.
His gaze drifted again, lingering on Kong’s mouth as he sipped his drink. Soft lips, really soft.
Shit.
“What’s your problem tonight, P’Tho?” Kong’s voice cut through his daze like a slap, startling him.
Thomas blinked, caught red-handed. He looked up, seeing Kong’s raised eyebrow and crossed arms. He must have ended his conversation with In a while ago because the girl had gotten up and sat with AuAu and Save, teasing them for trying to blatantly lie.
“You’ve been zoning out like a creep, P’Tho. Did you finally kill someone and forgot to hide the body?” Kong leaned in, resting his elbows on the table while squirting at him suspiciously.
“I’m fine,” Thomas huffed. “Stop being so dramatic.”
“ You’re dramatic,” Kong said, grinning and leaning closer, until their faces were inches apart. “Acting like you’ve seen a ghost all night.”
“Maybe I did,” he muttered, trying to mask the way his breath caught.
Because fuck. Now that he was aware? Now that he knew ? Kong’s closeness wasn’t just anything — it was suffocating in a way that made his skin tingle, his pulse throb loud in his ears.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Kong raised an eyebrow.
“Like what?”
“Like you’re gonna murder me. You can’t do this to me, P’Tho! I’m your best friend!”
Thomas groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “You’re imagining things.”
Kong held his face, squishing his cheeks, grinning. “See? Suspicious.”
The touch — playful, casual, stupidly normal — sent a shiver down Thomas’ spine and his heart… Yeah. It was beating faster.
Like Kong was rewiring his entire system with a simple touch.
“Oh my God, you’re blushing!” Kong said, eyes wide exaggeratedly.
“I’m not!”
“You are.”
“Shut up.”
“You’re totally blushing, P’Thomas.”
Thomas huffed, earning a bark of laughter from Kong. Their friends barely paid attention, too caught up in their games, but for Thomas, it was like the whole world had shrunk to this stupid, suffocating moment where Kong touched him, teased him, smiled at him like that.
Like he was his favorite person in the room.
And maybe that’s what wrecked him the most. Because, yeah, maybe he was.
🌻
The air was thick with humidity, clinging to Thomas like a second skin. Even the sun, which had finally dipped below the skyline, left behind a sticky, lingering heat that made his shirt uncomfortably plastered to his back. They had just left the 7-Eleven, plastic bags swinging at their sides, filled with way more snacks than any of them needed.
Kong walked ahead, chatting about which flavor of ice cream would survive the trip home without melting into soup. His hair was slightly damp, the humidity making it curl at the ends, a little messier than usual. Thomas couldn’t stop staring.
You’re doing it again . Zoning out. Letting his eyes linger too long.
The glow from the street stalls cast a warm light on Kong’s face, softening his features in a way that made Thomas’ throat dry up.
You can’t stop staring at them.
You find their quirks endearing.
Your heart beats faster when you’re with them.
He hated how those words looped in his head, Fern’s dumb checklist haunting him like some cheesy high school romance plot. And yet, here he was, trailing behind, bags cutting into his fingers, completely useless.
“You’re so obvious, you know that?” Kong’s voice cut through his haze.
Thomas blinked. “What?”
“That look on your face. You’re spacing out. Again.” Kong gave him a look, one of those cocky, lopsided grins that made Thomas’ brain short-circuit. “What’s going on in that pretty little head of yours, P’Tho?”
Thomas huffed, feigning annoyance. “Just thinking. Not that you’d understand.”
“Rude,” Kong gasped dramatically, pressing a hand to his chest. “And here I am, carrying all these snacks for you .”
“For me? You’re the one who bought five cups of iced chocolate.”
“Details,” Kong waved off, stepping closer. Too close, making Thomas acutely aware of how close their shoulders brushed, how their arms kept bumping as they walked.
Kong suddenly stopped and turned, forcing Thomas to halt, barely avoiding a collision. The heat radiating off Kong’s skin felt suffocating in the best and worst way.
“You’re acting shady. Are you hiding something?” Kong narrowed his eyes, voice low with mock suspicion.
“Yeah. My will to live. This weather is killing me.”
“Lame excuse. Try again.”
Before Thomas could deflect further, Kong reached out and tugged lightly at his sleeve, fingers curling right above his wrist. The touch was nothing, casual and fleeting, but Thomas felt it like a spark under his skin.
His heart stuttered. Then kicked into high gear.
Your heart beats faster when you’re with them .
There it was. No escaping it now.
Kong had already let go, now gesturing animatedly about the best way to pack ice cream to survive Thailand’s heat. Meanwhile, Thomas was left standing there, heat flaring in his chest for reasons that had nothing to do with the weather.
🌻
Thomas hadn’t meant to avoid Kong. He just… needed space.
Or maybe clarity. Probably both.
At first, it was little things. Skipping the usual stop at their favorite café after class. Taking longer to reply in their group chat. Making up excuses to not join when Kong asked if he wanted to grab dinner.
He wasn’t ignoring him, technically .
He still replied. Still left likes on his posts. But he was being careful, keeping a little distance, trying to untangle whatever storm had settled in his chest.
Unsurprisingly, Kong noticed.
[N’Kong 10:13 pm]:
p’tho, are you avoiding me?
Thomas stared at his phone, feeling his stomach twist. God, he hated how well Kong could read him.
He typed back slowly.
[Thomas 10:14 pm]:
nah
just thinking too much lately
The reply came faster than he expected.
[N’Kong 10:14 pm]:
about what?
did i do something wrong?
Thomas’ throat felt tight. It would’ve been easier if Kong had been upset. Accusing. Angry. But no, he was confused. Maybe a little worried, like he genuinely thought he’d done something wrong.
[Thomas 10:16 pm]:
you didnt do anything, i promise
its me
got a lot on my mind
There was a pause. He could imagine Kong frowning at his screen, lips pressed together, overthinking now too.
The irony wasn’t lost on him.
[N’Kong 10:17 pm]:
if you say so. just let me know if you need me, okay?
Something about that hit deeper than Thomas expected. He sighed, rolling onto his back, phone resting on his chest.
He could hear Fern’s voice in his head, loud and smug: “You look like someone punched you right in the chest, man. ”
Yeah, he did. It still felt like that.
He unlocked his phone again, aimlessly scrolling through random posts, but nothing stuck. His mind kept circling back to Kong.
That night. His laugh. His dumb sweet tooth. The way Thomas could just be around him.
It wasn’t like his past hookups. It wasn’t even like his superficial old crushes. This was… different, which was scary in its own way.
He found himself staring at the ceiling, lips moving without sound.
“What am I doing?”
He knew avoiding Kong wouldn’t help, but facing him head-on while his feelings were still much of a mess felt impossible. It was like standing at the edge of a diving board, knowing the water was fine, but still hesitating to jump.
And yet, even with all the chaos in his head, Thomas knew one thing for sure: Kong wasn’t going anywhere. That was just who he was.
That thought settled something in him. Maybe he didn’t need to figure everything out tonight.
🌻
The next day felt too normal for how loud Thomas’ brain was being.
Bangkok’s late afternoon air wrapped around him like a thick blanket, humid and relentless, even in the shade of the small food court they’d chosen. Plastic chairs scraped against concrete, the faint hiss of street grills filled the air, mingling with the clatter of plates and the constant murmur of people.
He spotted Kong immediately.
Not that it was hard — Kong had this way of existing like he belonged everywhere. Casual, easy, perched on a wobbly chair with a plate of moo ping skewers in front of him, iced chocolate sweating on the plastic table. Sunglasses perched on his head, even though they weren’t needed, hair slightly messy, like he’d let it air-dry on purpose.
Thomas wasn’t sure why that made his throat go dry.
“You came,” Kong greeted, eyes flicking up to meet his, a smile curling at his lips. Not wide, not teasing, just… relieved.
“Yeah.” Thomas scratched the back of his neck, shifting awkwardly before sitting across from him. “Told you I would.”
“You say a lot of things,” Kong said, tone light but gaze searching.
Ouch. Fair enough.
They ordered more food. Idle chatter filled the gaps: the latest campus gossip, Por’s failed attempt at parallel parking (which apparently made it to their group chat as a meme), Save’s upcoming exam stress. Thomas answered, nodded, even laughed when Teetee sent a video of a dog doing the wai before meals.
But through it all, his eyes kept drifting back to Kong.
You can’t stop thinking about them.
It was worse now that he’d admitted it to himself. Every little thing Kong did seemed amplified. The way he picked at the grilled pork, lips pursed. The soft crease between his brows when he read his messages. The absent tap of his fingers against his cup, rhythmic, comforting.
Thomas knew those things. He’d seen them countless times before.
So why did it feel like he was seeing them for the first time?
He zoned out halfway through Kong talking about some new series he was binge-watching. His voice was low, familiar, and for a moment, Thomas wasn’t even registering the words — just the sound, like background music made just for him.
“P’Tho.” Kong’s voice sharpened.
Thomas blinked, startled. “What?”
“You’re being weird again.” Kong leaned forward, arms folded on the table. “If you don’t wanna be here, you can just say it.”
“That’s not…” Thomas groaned, running a hand down his face. “It’s not that.”
“Then what?” Kong frowned, lips jutting out slightly. “You keep spacing out. You didn’t even hear me say Patji’s hosting a movie night this weekend. You never ignore free snacks.”
Thomas winced, caught.
“I’m…” he started, then stopped. Swallowed. “I’m just thinking.”
Kong’s eyes narrowed. “You keep saying that.”
“Because it’s true.”
“What is it, then?” Kong’s tone softened, less challenging now, more curious. “You’re acting like I’ve done something. Just tell me if I have. I can’t fix it if you don’t tell me.”
That was the thing. Kong hadn’t done anything.
He was just there . Existing. Being himself. And Thomas’ brain had decided to make a whole crisis out of it.
Kong reached out, fingers brushing against Thomas’ wrist — barely a touch, but it was enough. Enough to make Thomas’ pulse jump.
Your heart beats faster when you’re with them.
Yeah, no kidding.
“I told you. It’s not you,” Thomas said, voice quieter this time. “I’m just… sorting my shit out.”
Kong’s gaze held his for a moment longer, searching, then, with a tiny huff, he sat back, letting Thomas off the hook.
“For the record,” Kong said, grabbing his iced chocolate and sipping dramatically, “I’m not going anywhere. You can sort your shit out with me around, you know.”
Thomas felt something warm bloom in his chest at that. Typical Kong.
The late sun dipped lower, casting golden streaks across the street. Somewhere nearby, a motorbike revved too loud. The world kept moving. But Thomas sat still for a moment, just watching Kong roll his eyes at his own stubbornness.
He’s not going anywhere.
Maybe, just maybe, that’s what Thomas needed to remember.
🌻
Patji’s apartment was cramped, loud and smelled like microwave popcorn and instant noodles. Just the way their group liked it.
Save had claimed the bean bag. Por and Auau were squished on the floor, arguing over which snack was superior — seaweed chips or shrimp crackers. Teetee was in charge of the playlist for the “pre-movie vibes,” which meant they were all being subjected to the most chaotic mix of t-pop and anime openings.
Thomas sat on the couch, half-listening, half-watching Kong.
Kong was perched sideways on the same couch, legs stretched out, one ankle lazily bumping into Thomas’ thigh every now and then. He wasn’t even paying attention to the others, scrolling through his phone, brows furrowed, lips pursed.
It was stupid, the way Thomas’ heart kept reacting to the smallest things. The accidental brushes. The way Kong’s shoulder leaned into his when he laughed. How his hair curled at the ends, still damp from his shower.
You’re in love with him.
It wasn’t even a question anymore. He just hadn’t said it out loud yet.
As the movie finally started, their group naturally dissolved into smaller clumps of conversation and half-hearted watching. Save and TeeTee eventually migrated to the kitchen, arguing about ice cubes. AuAu was passed out on the floor, hugging a pillow. Por was too busy live-commenting on the movie’s plot holes to notice anything else.
That left Thomas and Kong, still shoulder-to-shoulder on the couch, the TV casting flickering lights on their faces.
“You’ve been staring at me for the past ten minutes,” Kong said, not looking away from the screen. “You good?”
Thomas exhaled, a slow, measured breath. His heart pounded loud in his ears.
“Kong,” he started, hesitant, “I think I… I know what’s been messing with me lately.”
That got Kong’s attention. He turned, resting his elbow on the back of the couch, chin propped in his palm. Waiting.
“I think I… fell for you.” Thomas kept his voice quiet. “Not like, sudden. It’s been there. I just didn’t know what it was. And I’ve been trying to figure it out because I’ve never… felt this before. Not like this.”
Kong’s lips parted slightly, surprise flashing in his eyes. But he didn’t look away.
“I like being around you. A lot . More than I thought. But when it’s you, it feels different. Like you stick to me. I keep thinking about the things you do, the way you laugh, even stupid stuff like your iced chocolate obsession. And that night…” Thomas trailed off, mouth dry, “It didn’t feel casual to me. It wasn’t just fun. It meant something. And that scared the shit out of me.”
The silence stretched, not heavy, but expectant. Kong shifted, drawing one leg up on the couch, folding into himself. His fingers tugged at the hem of his shirt, fidgeting.
“I love you, P’Tho.” His voice was soft. Honest . “But I don’t know if it’s the same kind of love. I like being with you. I like touching you. I like when you kiss me. Even… you know, the other stuff.” He gave a faint smile. “But I feel the same when I’m with the others too. Not the kissing part, obviously. But the closeness. The way it’s easy with you, it’s easy with them too. I don’t know how to tell the difference.”
Thomas nodded, swallowing around the lump in his throat. It wasn’t rejection, but it wasn’t quite what he wanted either.
“I don’t want to hurt you,” Kong added, voice smaller now. “I don’t want to promise something if I don’t even understand what it means yet.”
For the first time, Thomas felt what heartbreak actually tasted like. Bitter, but not unbearable. Not when it was Kong.
“It’s okay,” Thomas said, forcing a smile. “I don’t want to ruin what we have. You’re my best friend. That matters more.”
Kong frowned, frustration flickering across his face. “But I don’t want to ignore it either. What if we… try it out? Like, real dates. See what it feels like. Maybe it’s different when we know we’re trying.”
Thomas blinked. “You’re suggesting we date.”
“I’m suggesting we go on dates,” Kong corrected. “No expectations. Just… us. Testing the waters. If it feels the same, fine. If it feels different, we’ll know.”
For the first time that evening, Thomas let out a genuine laugh. Leave it to Kong to turn something this emotionally tangled into something so straightforward.
“Okay,” Thomas said. “Let’s do that.”
Kong’s smile was small but sincere, the kind that always made Thomas’ chest ache.
“Good. Now pass me the shrimp crackers. Por’s wrong, seaweed chips suck.”
Thomas did as told, watching the way Kong’s fingers brushed his.
Yeah. Even if it hurt a little, he was glad they were doing this.
🌻
[Thomas 11:16 am]:
tee
quick question
what do people even do on dates
[TeeTee 11:16 am]:
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
sorry sorry
omg this is so cute
are you going on a date, p’thomas??? 👀
Of course he’d ask. It was Tee’s nature to be curious.
Especially when it came to Thomas’ life.
[Thomas 11:18 am]:
hypothetically
[TeeTee 11:18 am]:
hypothetically my ass
is it with p’kong?
Shit. Why did he have to say that name?
[Thomas 11:18 am]:
stop. focus.
what do i even DO
where do we go
[TeeTee 11:19 am]:
it depends
do you wanna go romantic? casual? fun?
[Thomas 11:20 am]:
casual? but also i want him to think i put effort
[TeeTee 11:20 am]:
that’s a date, dumbass
[Thomas 11:20 am]:
yeah but what if he doesn’t want it to be a date
[TeeTee 11:20 am]:
do you want it to be a date?
Yes, of course he’d want that.
Thomas had spent an unhealthy amount of time daydreaming of going on a date with Kong. The kind of date he was used to seeing in movies.
[Thomas 11:21 am]:
…yes
[TeeTee 11:21 am]:
then ask him out
worse thing that happens is he says no
but he won’t
he likes you, even if he’s a slowpoke with feelings
[Thomas 11:22 am]:
why do you sound like you know who is it
[TeeTee 11:22 am]:
because i do :D
Thomas groaned, tossing his phone aside. He opened Google, searched “ what to do on a casual first date ” and immediately regretted it. All those “perfect date ideas” articles felt fake. Too polished. Too not-him.
And definitely not them.
So he grabbed his phone again and typed without overthinking.
[Thomas 11:48 am]:
you busy later?
wanna hang out?
Before he could unsend the messages, Kong replied.
[N’Kong 11:49 am]:
hang out as in
a date?
[Thomas 11:49 am]:
NO
i mean yes??
shit
For a moment, Thomas just locked his phone and rubbed his face hard, as if it would help him to take away all the embarrassment he was feeling.
He wasn’t that much of a loser, for fuck’s sake. Why was he acting like he was asking a stranger out, not his best friend of 3 years, Kong?
[Thomas 11:50 am]:
up to you
but i’d like it to be
[N’Kong 11:50 am]:
lol
okay
see you later, p’tho
don’t be late to our date 😉
Thomas buried his face in his hands.
They met at a small outdoor market near the river, stalls glowing under string lights, the humid evening air heavy with scents of grilled pork skewers, fresh fruit, and sticky rice. Kids ran around with sparklers, the sky still clinging to its soft pinks.
Thomas had worn the nice shirt again . Not too nice, but nice enough that Kong noticed right away.
“Oh, look at you. Someone got dressed up.” Kong grinned, taking a step back to give Thomas a once-over. “Hair styled, nice shoes… all this for me?”
Thomas shot him a flat look. “Would you believe me if I said it’s a coincidence?”
“Nope!”
Kong was smug, but there was a faint pink tint to his ears.
They strolled through the market, stopping at random stalls, buying skewers and drinks, occasionally brushing shoulders. Their conversation was easy, the way it always was, but Thomas couldn’t ignore the low thrum under his skin, the way his heart seemed annoyingly aware of every moment Kong looked at him.
At some point, they sat by the river with their snacks, watching the reflections shimmer.
“I had no idea what I was doing, asking you out today,” Thomas admitted, fiddling with his straw. “I even googled ‘what to do on a date’. It was useless.”
“You could’ve just asked me, you know.”
“I did. Kind of. After panicking.”
Kong smiled, small and fond. “Well, you’re doing fine so far.”
“That’s reassuring.”
They sat in comfortable quiet, only the murmur of the crowd and water filling the gaps. Thomas stole a glance at Kong, who was swinging his legs off the edge, relaxed, content. The sight made Thomas’ chest hurt in a way he wasn’t used to. A way he didn’t mind , even if it was terrifying.
“So…” Kong started, tilting his head towards him. “Do I get to plan the next date?”
Thomas huffed a soft laugh. “Sure. Just don’t take me anywhere fancy. I don’t have enough nice shirts for that.”
“Deal.”
Their fingers brushed on the bench, lingering for a beat longer than necessary.
🌻
Kong wasn’t the nervous type. Or at least, he didn’t think he was.
But when he found himself scrolling through his closet, actually thinking about what to wear, not just grabbing the first oversized shirt, he had to admit: yeah, maybe he was a little nervous.
Not because it was some grand romantic date, but because it was with Thomas.
And Thomas liked him. Was in love with him .
Kong wasn’t sure how that worked. He liked Thomas too, always had. He liked being with him, liked the way they could bicker and laugh, and still sit in silence without it being weird. He liked kissing him. That was fun.
But he wasn’t sure if the feeling was the same. Or if it mattered right now.
Still, he didn’t want Thomas to think he didn’t care.
He did. A lot.
So yeah, maybe he took an extra five minutes styling his hair. Maybe he picked the sneakers Thomas once said were cool. Maybe he even checked his reflection twice.
At the arcade, when Thomas showed up, Kong’s grin came easy.
“You tried to trick me, huh?” Kong teased, poking at Thomas’ hoodie. “New hoodie, hair styled… sneakers match mine. This is a date.
Thomas stiffened like he’d been caught red-handed. “Well, I…”
Kong laughed. That little nervous furrow between Thomas’ brows was stupidly cute. “It’s okay, P’Tho. We can call this a date.”
As they played, the nervous flutter settled into something warmer, familiar. This was still Thomas. His Thomas.
The one who pouted when he lost, who got competitive over claw machines, who laughed in that rare, open way when Kong trash-talked him.
Kong realized, mid-game, that he’d grabbed Thomas’ hand.
He hadn’t even noticed. Just… did it.
Thomas noticed, though. His fingers tensed and, when Kong looked up, Thomas was staring at their hands like they’d grown a second head, which, to be honest, was funny.
They had held hands so many times before, intertwining their fingers mindlessly as they talked or spent time together. To Kong, it was natural, a touch he was so used to that he would search for it unconsciously. But it had a different meaning to Thomas now.
Neither of them let it go.
Later, after taking a break from all the games, Kong’s curiosity got the better of him.
“Why do you like me, P’Tho?”
It wasn’t meant to be deep. Kong just wanted to understand.
Thomas took his time, staring into his cup.
“I don’t really know how to explain it. We’ve been friends for a while now, but it feels like we opened up to each other only now,” he said, quietly. “I’m not sure when , but I feel like everything about you, the things I already knew, became different. Like I’m seeing you through different lenses. And it’s so easy to understand why I fell for you.”
Kong’s throat felt a little tight. He wasn’t used to this kind of sincerity aimed at him.
“I’m not sure about what I feel, P’Tho,” Kong admitted. “But I feel good with this, with trying. I just… don’t want to mess it up.”
Thomas bumped their shoulders gently. “You’re not messing anything up. We’re figuring it out. Together.”
Kong nodded. A while ago, he’d be scared about this whole thing. He lost so many friends because of his confusing feelings, but with Thomas… it was different. He wasn’t afraid.
And that… that made Kong smile.
Their date lasted longer than it was planned, but neither complained about it. They kept playing, eating and talking about everything and anything — until it was late enough and Thomas offered to take Kong home.
When they got in front of Kong’s house, Thomas kept fidgeting on the steering wheel as if he was debating on saying something or not. Kong had seen enough movies to guess what was going on Thomas’ mind so he leaned in and pressed a soft peck to the older’s man lips.
It was quick, barely there, but it seemed to be enough for Thomas.
“See you later, P’Tho,” Kong said casually, hopping out of the car.
As he walked to his building, he didn’t need to look back to know Thomas was sitting there, dumbfounded, probably touching his lips like some drama here.
Kong grinned.
Trying this out wasn’t so scary after all.
🌻
The university café was kind of full, the kind of soft buzzing atmosphere perfect for wasting time between classes. The floor-to-ceiling windows let in the warmth from the sun and the faint clink of coffee cups filled the air like background music. It smelled like espresso and cinnamon and cheap lavender soap from the restrooms.
Thomas was halfway through a lukewarm matcha latte, elbow on the table, cheek in his hand, staring at nothing. Across from him, Kong stirred his iced choco milk like it had personally wronged him, straw tapping against the glass in lazy circles. He looked unfairly good in a simple white t-shirt, sleeves hugging his biceps, sunglasses perched on his head like an afterthought. His knee kept knocking against Thomas’s under the table.
Not once. Not twice. Just… constantly.
It wasn’t new. But it felt new.
At the next table over, a couple was sharing a single drink, two straws poking out of one tall cup. The guy had his hand on the girl’s thigh. She was laughing into her hand like he’d said something sweet.
Kong noticed them too. He hummed, sitting back in his chair, arms crossed over his chest.
“Do you think we’d look like that if we were out on a date?”
Thomas blinked. “What?”
Kong nodded toward the couple. “I mean… we kind of do that already. The knee thing. The drink stealing. I bet they haven’t fought over playlist control, though.”
Thomas raised an eyebrow. “We don’t fight . You just have terrible taste in music.”
“I have versatile taste,” Kong corrected, smug. “And I let you win half the time because I’m generous.”
Thomas smiled despite himself. Kong sipped his drink, humming.
“But seriously,” he said, more thoughtful now, “I wonder what kind of couple we’d be. I don’t think we’d ever be all cutesy like them. We’d still insult each other mid-sip.”
“Accurate,” Thomas said, leaning back. “I’d call you annoying and you’d kick me under the table.”
“And then you’d flirt with me like nothing happened,” Kong said, eyes glinting.
Thomas flushed, hiding behind his cup. He wasn’t used to Kong referring to his feelings so openly.
“But maybe we’re not the type that needs to look like a date,” Kong continued, quieter. “Maybe it just… is. If it feels good, does it matter?”
Thomas looked at him for a moment. It hit him again, the way Kong talked so freely about them, like there was no edge of fear around it. Like he wasn’t trying to define anything urgently. Like he was just… being .
It both comforted and panicked Thomas.
Kong tilted his head. “When are you taking me on our third date?”
Thomas nearly choked on his drink.
“We’re… we’re having a third date?”
Kong blinked. “Well, maybe the fourth. We’re already on the third, right?”
Thomas opened his mouth. Closed it. Opened it again.
“I… I thought this was just coffee.”
Kong gave him a slow, infuriating smile. “P’Tho… I wore my good shirt.”
Thomas laughed, helpless. “You’re unbelievable.”
“But you love me anyway.”
“I do,” Thomas said before he could stop himself.
Kong’s smile softened at that. He didn’t say anything in return, just reached forward and tugged at the sleeve of Thomas’ hoodie until Thomas let his hand fall onto the table. Their fingers brushed, then tangled.
Just for a moment.
It was warm and quiet and dizzying in a very still way. The kind of moment that didn’t need kissing or touching to feel intimate, it just was .
Thomas stared at their joined hands. “Okay. Third date, then.”
Kong grinned. “Better plan something nice. I’m not that easy.”
Thomas raised a brow. “Really?”
The younger man laughed and kicked him gently under the table. “Shut up.”
And Thomas thought this was what he liked best. Not the rules or the definitions. Not even the tension.
It was this.
The soft and ridiculous ease of it all.
🌻
The living room was a chaos of limbs and half-finished snacks. Shoes were kicked off by the door, soda cans sweated into coasters and someone’s playlist droned softly from a speaker in the corner.
Por and Save were fighting over a game controller, limbs tangled on the floor, insults half-serious and full of laughter. Kong sat cross-legged between them, back against the couch, trying to referee but clearly enjoying the spectacle more than helping.
AuAu had taken up the entire bean bag chair, balancing a bowl of popcorn on his stomach.
“You two are children,” he declared, catching their attention.
“I’m a gift to this friend group,” Save replied, throwing a popcorn and catching it midair, tossing it into his mouth.
“No refunds on cursed gifts,” Por muttered, kicking him lightly.
In was lounging on the armrest near AuAu’s head, scrolling through her phone lazily before suddenly sitting upright.
“Hey, guys,” she said, eyes lighting up. “What if we went away this weekend? Like, to the beach. With seafood. No alarms. No textbooks.”
Everyone perked up at once. Even Save paused the game.
“We’re free now,” In pointed out. “Exams are done. We deserve a reward.”
“Oh my god, yes!” AuAu groaned. “If I see one more textbook I’m setting it on fire.”
“I second the arson,” Patji said from the floor, not even looking up from his phone.
Kong leaned back to rest his elbows on the couch cushions behind him. “I’m in.”
“Where would we even go?” TeeTee asked, but he was already pulling up a notes app to jot down ideas.
“My friend has a hotel close to the beach,” AuAu said, shrugging. “I can see if he can get us rooms for the weekend.”
“Done,” In jumped in. “I’ll plan the food. Tee, you handle the van.”
“Why me?”
“Because you’re the only one who didn’t nearly kill us last time you drove.”
“Hey!” Save frowned. “It happened once!”
“We’re glad we got out of that alive.”
Excited voices rose as plans started falling into place — what snacks to bring, who was on sunscreen duty, whether Patji would be banned from being in charge of the playlists (again).
Thomas sat back on the sofa, quiet but smiling, watching the whole room buzz around the idea like it had already happened.
Kong was next to Por now, elbow-deep in the snack bag, nudging Save with his foot and whispering something that made all three of them laugh. The sun from the balcony spilled across his shoulders, lighting up the copper in his hair.
Thomas tried not to look. He failed.
Again.
“Hey, P’Tho.”
Thomas flinched slightly as TeeTee dropped onto the cushion beside him. The rest of the room was still loud to notice the shift in volume.
TeeTee leaned in, voice low and teasing. “So. How was the date?”
Thomas blinked. “What date?”
“Don’t play dumb,” TeeTee gave him a knowing look. “You’ve had this weird face ever since you two disappeared after movie night. And I told you, I know why you were asking about dates.”
The older one didn’t respond, just shrugged, but his eyes flicked instinctively towards Kong.
TeeTee caught it.
“Mhm,” he hummed, grinning now. “That’s what I thought.”
“There’s nothing to think,” Thomas muttered, looking away.
“Sure. Totally believe you. You just happen to stare at P’Kong like he’s a walking sunrise.”
Thomas snorted softly, shaking his head. TeeTee leaned back, resting his arms across the top of the couch. His voice softened.
“I’m not teasing to be mean, you know.”
“I know.”
“I’m just glad,” TeeTee said after a moment. “Feels like something shifted between you guys. You seem… lighter. P’Kong does too.”
Thomas didn’t say anything. Just kept his gaze fixed on Kong, who was laughing now, head tipped back, eyes crinkled. One hand flailed in the air as he mock-argued with Save about which beach snacks were essential.
The moment hung in the air between them.
TeeTee nudged Thomas’ shoulder once, then stood. “Alright, lover boy. I’ll leave you to your staring.”
Thomas didn’t even pretend to be offended, he just watched Kong again.
🌻
The hotel wasn’t fancy, but it had charm.
The kind that came with chipped paint in pastel colors and windows that let the sea breeze dance through the corridors. It belonged to a friend of AuAu’s family, so they had the whole top floor to themselves, four rooms, a big shared balcony, and the freedom to be loud without complaints.
Por was already raiding the minibar. Save had claimed the bathroom. In dropped her duffel at the doorway and turned to the group with a grin.
“We should do a weekend like this every month,” she said. “Exams are over. We survived. Let’s celebrate.”
“Let’s not do exams every month,” Kong replied, tugging off his hoodie. His tank top underneath clung to him, sweat from the drive still cooling on his skin.
Thomas’s eyes drifted for a moment, just a moment, to Kong’s waist, the way the fabric hugged it. Then away, quickly, like it burned.
“Alright,” TeeTee said, grabbing the room keys. “Let’s assign these before Por and Save start fighting over bed corners.”
“Por snores,” Save warned.
“You hog the fan,” Por shot back.
TeeTee snorted and tossed a key at them. “You two are together. No negotiations.”
Everyone laughed. TeeTee, Patji and AuAu took the corner room, already arguing about playlists. In, as the only girl in the group, had a whole room for herself.
And then TeeTee, too casually, handed the final key to Thomas.
“You and Kong. The room with the balcony.”
Thomas blinked. “Wait, what?”
“Unless you want to sleep in the hallway,” TeeTee said, winking.
Kong didn’t say a word, just grabbed the key from Thomas’s hand, his knuckles brushing his lightly. He had a smug smile on his face.
“C’mon, P’Tho. Let’s go claim the balcony.”
The beach was warm underfoot, the sand soft and golden, waves slapping gently at the shore. They played like kids, loud and stupid and full of leftover energy from weeks of stress. Por and TeeTee ended up wrestling in the water, In sat perched on Patji’s shoulders, trying to catch a floating slipper.
Kong threw himself into the sea with a joy Thomas couldn’t look away.
When he came back to the beach, soaked through, his shirt clung to his chest, to the line of his small waist and his laugh was loud and open.
Thomas swallowed hard.
“You’re checking me out,” Kong said, flopping onto the towel beside him.
Thomas didn’t bother denying it. “So?”
“Wow, you’re brave now?”
“Well,” he shrugged, making Kong smile while placing a hand over Thomas’.
Their touches weren’t hidden, but they weren’t obvious either. Things they were already used to do, but now with a different feeling, a different intent.
It felt natural, comfortable. Like they were just continuing something they’d already been doing for a long time.
At sunset, they ate together on the hotel’s patio, dishes piled high, drinks sweating in the ocean breeze. Kong sat beside Thomas, a hand on his knee, casual but present. When Thomas’ hand found Kong’s thigh under the table, Kong didn’t even blink, just adjusted slightly so Thomas could keep touching.
When the group started drifting — Por and TeeTee arguing over Uno rules, In showing Patji and Save something on her phone while AuAu took a nap on the hammock —, Kong leaned in.
“Let’s walk,” he said softly, getting up and offering his hand to Thomas.
The beach was quieter now, the water darker, the moon rising over the horizon in slivers of silver. Kong's hand found Thomas’ and held it with a gentle grip, fingers threading through like it was easy.
Neither of them spoke for a moment, listening to the crashing waves. Kong sighed, halting his steps and turning to Thomas calmly.
He was so… pretty. Breathtakingly gorgeous.
“P’Tho?” His voice was small, but not hesitant. Thomas hummed. “What would you do if I told you I… don't think I'll ever understand my feelings? And I wanted to stop this?”
Thomas looked away, his expression unreadable for a second. Kong saw how the frown on his forehead deepened before disappearing completely.
“Well, I… I’d be heartbroken, obviously,” he laughed but it came out soft and sincere. “But, to be honest, I want you no matter what status we have. We're friends over anything else, N’Kong.”
It was Kong's turn to hum. He looked at their intertwined hands and a soft smile bloomed at his lips.
Kong looked up to Thomas once more, this time, his eyes carried a different glint. Something that made Thomas' heart swell with warmth.
He wasn't lying when he said all he wanted was Kong, no matter what. That boy was a sunshine in his life, someone he could trust, someone that would always have his back — unconditionally.
They never needed a romantic relationship to love each other. To care, to want to be close.
It was just… something more. A different light on what they already built together.
“Then…” Kong's voice brought Thomas back to the present. “Would you want me as your boyfriend even if I never really understand my feelings?”
Thomas blinked, speechless.
“I don't know if what I'm feeling is the love you want, P’Tho,” Kong continued, voice quiet. “But it's the love I have. I want to give it to you. Even if it's not enough.”
Thomas didn't respond. He didn't have to.
He stepped forward and kissed Kong.
It was gentle, lips just brushing, a question and a promise all at once. Kong leaned in, kissed back and the warmth in his chest spilled into the space between them.
When they broke apart, foreheads against each other, Thomas whispered: “It's more than enough for me.”
Back in their hotel room, the air was heavy with something sweeter than salt. They didn't talk much.
They didn't need to.
Thomas closed the door, eyes never leaving Kong’s silhouette. He couldn't help himself — the younger’s small shoulders, his long legs, the small waist —, it was enough to make Thomas want .
Kong turned around, reaching for him once more, pulling Thomas close by the hem of his shirt. Their breaths mixed, brushing against their cheeks, just feeling each other — the scent coming from their warm skin, the closeness, the subtle touches, themselves.
And then, they leaned in. The kiss picked up where it left off — soft at first, slow. Tentative.
Thomas’ hands found Kong's waist, tracing the curve there, the dip of his back. Kong pressed closer, fingers slipping into Thomas' hair and he kissed like he wasn't sure where it would lead but knew he wanted to follow.
They undressed each other slowly, shirts lifted, skin pressed to skin. They laughed a little when Kong's elbow knocked over a glass on the nightstand and then Thomas laughed again when he tripped over his own sandals, landing on the bed with a thud.
Kong crawled over him, eyes glowing in the dim lamplight.
“You’re so clumsy, P’Tho,” he murmured, hands sliding behind the older’s neck.
“You're beautiful,” Thomas breathed.
That shut Kong up, just for a second.
Their touches weren't rushed. They were learning, tracing each other like a story. Fingers moved across ribs, over shoulders, down spines. Thomas kissed the place beneath Kong's ear that made him exhale sharply.
Kong's mouth found Thomas' collarbone, then lower.
It wasn't about perfection. It was about attention, care .
Love .
Even if confusing, it was theirs. In the most pure way.
After, they laid tangled in the sheets, Kong half-sprawled across Thomas’ chest. Thomas ran his fingers lazily down his back, feeling the soft rise and fall of his breath.
“N’Kong?”
He hummed, not lifting his head.
“I love you,” he said quietly.
Kong raised his head just enough so he could look at Thomas.
“I know,” he murmured. “I love you too.”
Thomas smiled, pressing a kiss on Kong's head.
“Let's sleep a bit.”
Kong nodded, closing his eyes.
In Thomas' arms, he felt he didn't have anything to figure out.
🌻
It happened during lunch.
They were back at campus, back to cheap plastic trays and noisy chatter in the cafeteria. Exams were done, the beach trip already a fond memory turned into an inside joke — like Save almost drowning in waist-deep water and In sunburning exactly half of her face after sleeping on the beach chair.
Kong was sitting close beside Thomas. Not pressed tight, just… near. His knee brushed Thomas’ and he hadn’t moved it. Thomas had looked over once or twice, small glances, soft smiles. He hadn’t moved either.
And maybe that was what gave it away.
Por narrowed his eyes mid-bite. “Okay. What’s going on.”
“What?” Kong asked around a mouthful of rice.
“You two,” Por pointed. “You’re doing that thing. The soft couple-y thing. You’re smiling at each other like… like you’re in a BL.”
“We’re always like this,” Kong said.
TeeTee leaned across the table. “No. You’re always weird. This is soft. Intimate weird.”
AuAu nodded solemnly. “You were feeding him cake on the bus ride back.”
Kong shrugged. “He was sleepy. I didn’t want him to mess up the frosting.”
“Mess up the what?!”
In threw her hands up. “Okay, so are you dating or what?”
Kong glanced at Thomas. He didn’t look startled. Just… quietly amused.
Thomas leaned back in his chair and laced his fingers behind his head, eyes on Kong. “Are we?”
Kong smiled, slow and warm. “Yeah. We’re dating.”
TeeTee whooped so loud a first-year dropped his spoon.
“I knew it!” he shouted. “I’m the captain of this ship! I carried it through storms and canon fire…”
Por threw a napkin at his face. “You don’t even know what canon means.”
As their friends spiraled into chaos, Kong turned to Thomas, nudging him with his shoulder. “You okay with that?”
Thomas raised a brow. “With them knowing? Of course.”
“No, I mean…” Kong paused, chewing his lip like he didn’t usually do. “With the way we’re doing this. With what it is.”
Thomas looked at him, really looked. The easy way Kong was curled beside him, confident even in his uncertainty. The way his hand rested comfortably between them, fingers open, like an offer that didn’t come with expectations.
“You wanna tell them everything?” Thomas asked, low.
Kong considered. He glanced around at their friends, who were now arguing over who was the top between them with terrifying commitment.
Then he looked back at Thomas and shook his head.
“No,” he said softly. “That’s between us.”
Thomas reached for his hand. Their fingers brushed, then settled.
And that was enough.
Because no matter what this was, no matter how it changed or stayed the same…
It was still them.