Love of Silom

Chapter 5 - First Date with First Love.

 

The next afternoon, Krit was sitting in an Italian restaurant in a shopping mall in the Phrom Phong area. He looked at Wayu, who was seated across from him, scanning the menu. Today, Wayu wore a dress shirt and long pants without any ripped details like the first day they met. His appearance was that of a well-groomed, fresh-faced young man.

 

No matter how seductively Wayu dressed, to Krit, he was still just a kid. His fair, smooth face, short layered hair grazing his nape, and the youthful softness of his cheeks made that clear. His lips were beautifully shaped, his long lashes curled into delicate fans, and his sharp yet elegant features had a mesmerising quality. But what truly drew the eye-what held one's gaze for far longer than it should-were those large, glistening eyes, brimming with an almost irresistible allure.

 

"What do you usually order?" Wayu looked up and asked. "I have no idea what's good here. This is my first time at this restaurant."

 

"Order whatever you like. It's on me."

 

"Uh... I was the one who invited you to thank you, not for you to treat me."

Krit smiled. He had no intention of letting Wayu pay for this meal.

 

"What do you usually like to eat?"

"Crispy pork, but it looks like they don't have it here."

 

"Then how about trying this instead? The sea bass steak? Or if you prefer beef, you can go for the Wagyu steak. Or maybe pasta?"

 

"I'll go with the sea bass steak if you say it's good. And should we order a pizza to share?"

 

Krit nodded and added sourdough bread with Parma ham as an appetiser for Wayu.

 

"Would you like something to drink?" Krit asked.

 

"Just water. I already drink alcohol every night at work, so I want to take a break. No need to increase the alcohol level in my blood. Do you come here often?"

 

"Sometimes. It's convenient and not as crowded as Silom."

"I'm glad you brought me here. If I came alone, I wouldn't have chosen this place. I'd probably end up eating noodles instead—not the ones upstairs in the food court, but somewhere outside the mall."

 

Krit hummed in response. To be honest, he hadn't planned on coming today, but yesterday, when he initially refused Wayu's invitation, the look on the younger man's face had made it seem as if his world was about to collapse. So, Krit eventually agreed, thinking of it as guiding a lost kid back onto a steadier path.

 

Last night, after Wayu messaged him about choosing a place, they went back and forth for a while. Eventually, the younger man switched from calling him. 

 

"Lieutenant Krit" to "Krit." As for the restaurant choice, Wayu finally texted, I'll let you decide.' So, Krit picked a spot in a mall, thinking it would be easy for Wayu to reach via the Skytrain.

 

"How's work going?" Krit asked.

 

"It's okay. Actually, I've only been working at the bar for about a month. At first, I felt so awkward standing there while customers chose me, but now I've gotten used to it. I also know what to do now."

 

"And what's that?"

"Just smile. What else?"

 

"What kind of smile?"

 

"Like this." Wayu gave him an exaggeratedly fake smile, like a child forced to smile in a school photo.

 

"Come on, do it properly" Wayu smiled again.

 

Krit observed him. This guy had a beautiful smile. His eyes sparkled when he smiled, making his face glow. But it wasn't naive innocence, it was something more knowing.

 

"That's better," Krit said.

"Just "better? I thought you'd be so charmed you'd start throwing money at me."

 

"I'm not a customer."

"Wouldn't mind if you were. Just kidding."

Krit shook his head. Though they had only just met, their conversations flowed easily, as if, despite their differences, there was something that connected them.

 

"How's your job going, Krit? Must be pretty stressful." Wayu asked as he reached for a slice of pizza on the tray. He hadn't buttoned the top button of his shirt, revealing his smooth, fair chest that could be seen faintly whenever he moved.

 

Krit glanced at it, feeling an itch in his fingers to reach out and button it up, but he knew the younger man wasn't a child who needed such fussing. Wayu had a mix of youthful charm and mature sensuality—a combination that probably worked well for his profession.

 

"Anything involving danger or life and death requires seriousness. But someone has to deal with it." Krit replied.

 

"You should stop by my bar sometime, Krit. Relax a little. Buy me four or five drinks, and I'll chat with you all night. Just kidding. You can just come to listen to music. Some customers like that."

 

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, making them open up more about personal matters. Krit learned that Wayu had been studying architecture but had to drop out to work and support himself and his family.

 

"Do you regret having to drop out?"

 

"A lot," Wayu admitted, looking downcast. "But it was necessary. I wasn't in a position to balance both."

 

Krit nodded in understanding and sympathy. He always felt a special kind of empathy for people who had to abandon their chosen paths due to life's circumstances.

 

"Once things settle down, think about going back to school."

 

"I'd like to, but I don't want to get my hopes up too much. I have to survive first. I also have my mom and nephew to take care of. If possible, I'd love to go back, finish my degree, and become an architect. I just don't know if I'll ever manage it."

 

"You will," Krit assured him. "Even with a head injury, you still got up to fight back—went as far as trying to punch him. So I'm sure you can handle everything else too."

 

"Krit, you're surprisingly good at encouragement." Wayu laughed.

 

Krit looked at the other man, who was now smiling brightly at him—not lost and desolate like he had been at the police station that day. A wave of fondness washed over Krit. Some people only had a brief window to experience their youth before being forced to grow up.

 

"How's Singto doing?"

 

Krit asked about Wayu's nephew. He still remembered the little boy in Wayu's arms that day—his small, innocent face and those wide, curious eyes staring up at him.

 

"He's doing great. Eating more every day. Right now, I'm trying to teach him to pronounce words more clearly."

 

"You've basically taken on the role of a dad at such a young age."

 

"Yeah. It's exhausting, but I don't mind. There's happiness in the exhaustion. It's fulfilling to watch him grow and learn new things little by little. Do you like kids, Krit?"

 

"I do. But I don't have any to take care of."

"Well, you can borrow mine anytime. I don't mind."

 

"Hmm." When Krit asked about the boy's mom, Wayu's face fell.

 

He admitted that his younger sister hadn't been in touch much lately, which worried him. Krit asked for her name and a picture, and when he saw it, he noted how similar the siblings looked. Their sharp, striking features were almost identical. Krit then probed a little further about the man Waii had run away with, in case he could help in some way.

 

After that, the conversation shifted to lighter topics. They talked about their favourite sports and music. When Krit mentioned his love for indie rock, Wayu gave him a thumbs up and teased that he was a police officer with good taste. But when Wayu revealed that his favourite cartoon character was a square sponge that likes to do messy things that make him nauseous, even though it is a dishwashing sponge, Krit laughed and teased back that the other one was a teenager with strange taste.

 

The two of them were chatting happily until they heard a soft knock on the glass wall next to their table. When Krit turned, he saw Rose.

 

"What are you doing around here?" Krit asked as she walked over to their table.

 

"I was shopping with some friends, and we're going to see a movie later. Are you here on an errand, or just for a meal?"

 

"Just having a meal. Want to join us?" Rose sat down, but her eyes were locked onto Krit's, clearly curious about his companion.

 

"Wayu, this is Rose, my friend," Krit introduced.

 

"Rose, this is Wayu. He needed a little help with something the other day, so we met up today."

 

"Oh, really..." Rose dragged out her words before turning to smile at Wayu, who respectfully greeted her with a wai. "Nice to meet you, Wayu."

 

"Likewise," Wayu replied with a smile. "Rose, why don't you eat with us? Krit was raving about how good the food here is, and honestly, I think it really is great."

 

"No, thanks. My friends are waiting. I just stopped by the restroom and happened to see Krit, so I came to say hi," Rose said before turning back to Krit. "Are you guys heading anywhere after this? Want to catch a movie with us?"

"I'm guessing it's a romance movie," Krit said.

 

"Nope, it's a murder mystery. But if you want to switch to a romance, I'm fine with that."

 

Before Krit could answer, Wayu's phone rang. He checked the caller ID and excused himself to take the call outside. As soon as he left, Rose leaned in toward Krit.

 

"Are you two dating?"

"What?"

 

"Don't play dumb. When I looked in from outside and saw you sitting here, I thought you were filming a romance drama, staring into each other's eyes and smiling so sweetly. The atmosphere was all sparkly like you were wrapped in a soft-focus filter. And he's cute, you know. How did you two meet? Is he a good person? Have you been talking for long?"

 

"Why are you asking so many questions?" Krit laughed.

"Because I'm curious! I haven't seen you date anyone in ages."

 

"You're overthinking it. Nothing is going on."

 

"Are you sure about that? Because I think he might have feelings for you," Rose teased, eyes twinkling mischievously.

 

"He's totally your type, tall, fair-skinned, adorable, with a gorgeous smile. It'd be weird if you weren't interested."

 

Krit shook his head. "No."

Rose's teasing demeanour shifted to a mix of annoyance and frustration.

 

"Why? Are you still not over Pete?"

"Why bring that up?"

 

"I don't want to say it, but I just feel like..." Rose raised her hand, holding back her words. "How many years has it been, Krit? It's time to move on. Pete isn't worthy of your love. He betrayed you.

 

Krit fell silent, saying nothing. Seeing his reaction, Rose realised she had struck a nerve.

 

"Sorry. I just want you to be happy." She reached out and gently touched the back of his hand. Krit gave her a small smile, showing he wasn't upset. Before they could continue the conversation, Wayu returned. Rose quickly changed the subject.

 

"Oh, Krit, you should take Wayu to our regular spot that we like one day," she said before turning to Wayu. "There's a café in Sathorn that has a variety of delicious brunch options, and the atmosphere is really nice. We should try it together sometime."

 

Wayu smiled but said nothing. He wasn't even sure if he'd get another excuse to ask Krit out again. This time, Krit had only agreed because he framed it as a thank-you.

 

After chatting for a little while longer, Rose excused herself to meet up with her friends. Once she was gone, Wayu commented, "Rose is really cheerful and friendly. And she's beautiful too."

 

"She's always been like that, ever since university"

"You guys have known each other that long?"

 

"Actually, we've been friends since high school, but we got closer when we went to the same university, just in different faculties."

 

Wayu was momentarily stunned. Then, he murmured, "That's nice."

After finishing their main courses, Krit suggested ordering dessert.

 

"The desserts here are famous. Want to try one? They should be delicious."

Wayu opened the menu. "Everything looks so good. Krit, any recommendations?"

 

"I have no idea."

"Huh?"

 

"I don't really like sweets, so I never order them. But I think you should try something."

 

As Wayu browsed the menu, Krit's phone, which was resting on the table, began to ring. He picked it up and answered. As the conversation went on, his expression grew more serious.

 

Wayu kept his head down, his eyes scanning the dessert menu while his ears still listened. Krit barely responded with anything more than "Mm, yes," or "Probably not," until the end of the conversation.

 

"Okay. I'll be there."

Wayu froze. When Krit hung up, he asked, "Do you have to go?"

"Yeah. Something came up. Sorry, we didn't even get to order dessert."

 

"That's okay." Wayu waved it off. "We can do it another time."

Will there be another time?

 

Krit put away his phone and insisted on paying for the meal.

 

"I'll only accept your thanks," Krit said. "Stay strong, Wayu. I know you're someone who strives for the best. Don't choose a path you'll regret later."

 

Wayu lowered his gaze, biting his lip. He didn't want to part ways with Krit just yet. Even though they had already spent a long time talking, and Krit had a sudden, urgent matter to attend to, he still wished they could have a little more time together. He wanted to hear that deep voice continue speaking about this and that—it made him feel warm inside, even if Krit was only talking casually without any hidden meaning. But Wayu knew he shouldn't take up more of Krit's time.

Besides... after meeting Rose, there were things he wasn't so sure about anymore.

 

As they stepped out of the restaurant together, Krit turned to ask,

"You're taking the Skytrain home, right?"

 

"Yes," Wayu nodded, flashing a smile.

 

Krit observed Wayu quietly. The other person had that look again, smiling at him. Those big eyes, clear as shadows, yet seemed to be coated with dew. It was as if they were trying to appear strong and self-reliant, even though he wanted to say,

 

"Don't leave me here." Krit wanted to reach out and pat his head in comfort, but then thought better of it.

 

"You're starting work tomorrow, right? Take care of yourself," Krit said.

"Yes," Wayu replied. "Thank you for coming with me today."

 

They exchanged smiles before parting ways, each heading toward their own separate lives, only able to meet in fleeting moments like this. After that, Krit became preoccupied with his work. His current case involved human trafficking, and his team was closing in on its source. It was shaping up to be a high-profile case, drawing public scrutiny due to the influential figures involved. That evening, Krit finally returned home. After greeting his parents, he headed upstairs to his room.

 

Once he had showered and changed, he sank onto the sofa by the window, planning to turn on the TV and catch up on the news. But his mind drifted back to what Rose had said to him earlier that afternoon at the restaurant.

 

'Pete doesn't deserve your love, Krit. He betrayed you."

 

‘Betrayed.' That word only applied when it came from someone you trusted.

Krit got up and walked to the bookshelf against the wall. He pulled out an old English textbook from his university days. Flipping through the pages, he found two banknotes tucked inside.

 

Pete...Krit's first love had begun in an English class. Pete was a student from the countryside who had come to study in Bangkok. They met in a shared class that included students from multiple faculties. When a group project required a video presentation, Krit, Pete, and Rose formed a team. Pete loved being in front of the camera. He was good-looking, quick-witted, and naturally charismatic, making their project both engaging and enjoyable.

 

Not long after working together, Pete invited Krit to start a YouTube channel with him. Krit agreed immediately, loved working behind the scenes, enjoyed the creative challenge, and found producing content exciting. He took on the role of videographer and content creator, while Pete served as the on-screen personality. Their channel focused on lifestyle content—food, travel around Bangkok, and trendy challenges of the time. Since Pete's family wasn't well-off, Krit willingly covered the costs of filming equipment and production.

 

He had never been happier. This was a side of life he would never get to pursue as a real career, no matter how much he loved it. Krit was destined to study law and follow in his dad's footsteps as a police officer. This YouTube channel was his only chance to do something he truly enjoyed. Krit never put his own name in the video credits. He kept his involvement as a quiet source of personal pride.

 

As their channel gained traction, Pete became more well-known as a content creator, and their relationship deepened. Eventually, they became a couple.

I love you, Krit. I feel so lucky to have met you.' I'm the lucky one,' But no matter how happy their love made him, Krit had to keep it a secret from his family. He never brought Pete home and was careful when talking to him on the phone, even in his own room. The only place he could truly be himself was when he was with Pete in his apartment.

 

Their YouTube channel started earning revenue. The first payment was three thousand baht, and Pete split it in half.

 

'I know you don't need the money, Krit. But this is the first income we made together, from something we built together. You have to take it and keep it as a memento? Krit accepted the money and tucked the two 1,500-baht notes into his English textbook from that semester.

'It's a pity that you won't appear on camera. If you did, our views would skyrocket-you're handsome!' Pete teased, tapping Krit's cheek.

 

‘It's Pete who's handsome.'

'Yeah, I'm the handsome guy with a handsome boyfriend.'

 

Pete had leaned in to kiss Krit's chin before smiling playfully. Krit pulled him into a hug, brushing his lips gently over Pete's before trailing his hands down to Pete's waist. Another kiss followed, deeper this time. Pete melted into his touch. Krit pulled off his own shirt, then Pete's, gently pushing him onto the sofa as he hovered above him. I wish we could always be like this, 'Pete whispered.

 

Krit's future was set; he would become a police officer. There was no other path for him. Pete, on the other hand, dreamed of working in entertainment. He wanted his own travel show, where he would host famous guests and create unique experiences every episode. But to achieve that point, Pete needed to become even more famous.

 

One day, Pete brought up an opportunity. ‘I'm going to audition for a role in a new series. It's a BL series.'

 

'You want to be an actor?' Krit asked.

 

‘I love being on camera. Whether it's as a content creator or an actor, I don't mind. And this is my chance. You won't stop me, right? You'll support me?'

 

Krit did more than Pete asked. He didn't just offer moral support; Krit paid for Pete's acting classes and supported him in every way he could. Since Krit himself couldn't follow a path in entertainment, Pete's dream became his dream as well.

Pete landed a supporting role in the BL series. They were both thrilled. What Krit didn't anticipate was the contract. Pete had to sign a three-year agreement that prohibited him from having a romantic partner.

 

'Krit, you understand, right? This is a rare opportunity. So... we have to keep our relationship a secret for three years?'

 

No... Krit. I won't secretly do something like that.' Krit was stunned. He couldn't believe the words coming out of Pete's mouth. The word love had turned into something like that something Pete no longer wanted. And that was the end of them.

 

Pete continued chasing his dreams without Krit in his life. Meanwhile, Krit kept those two 1,500-baht bills inside his old textbook. He never took that textbook off the bookshelf again. Pete remained a bittersweet memory—his first and only love.

 

A message notification on his phone pulled him back to the present. Krit shifted and glanced at the phone on the table beside the sofa. Wayu had sent the message.

 

'The food was delicious today. Thank you.'

 

Before Krit could do anything, the second message followed just a few seconds later.

 

'Goodnight, Krit.'

 

Krit let the messages sit on the screen until they dimmed. With a quiet sigh, he returned the textbook to its place on the bookshelf.