You(r) Tuber Vol 2.

28 Chop-khun's Regret

 

Lean, bare legs stepped forward and paused in front of the large mirror in the bathroom. Chop-khun reached for a small towel, absentmindedly drying his damp hair as his thoughts spiralled around the ongoing controversy. Chop-khun never imagined that after posting on X, he'd receive such overwhelming support. Some even went so far as to share evidence to confirm the truth. Even the interns stood up for him wholeheartedly. As for himself... he'd only been waiting for the other side to speak the truth.

 

Chop-khun believed his actions were the best choice at the time, but now unease gnawed at him. The more he thought about the hateful comments directed at those around him, the heavier the guilt weighed on his heart. If only he'd been firm and told the truth from the start, everything would've been clear by now.

 

"Mom, don't worry. It's not true."

 

Wrapped in a white robe, Chop-khun walked out of the bathroom, still drying his hair, his heart heavy. He saw Intouch sitting at the edge of the bed, talking on the phone with his mother. Chop-khun stood silently, listening to Intouch explain the situation. Suddenly, his phone, lying on the bed, buzzed repeatedly with LINE notifications. He quickly stepped over to silence it, but the messages kept popping up. Curious, he opened them to read.

 

Mama: Khun, are you okay? Your dad has already spoken with the legal team, but he didn't want to tell you because he knows you want to handle it yourself. But if it's too much, let us know. Don't carry this burden alone. We love you. Dad and l are always here for you. And don't tell your dad I told you this!

 

P'Khim: Khun, if you want to tell the whole story, I'm ready to help confirm the truth. Don't worry about me getting into trouble. I was planning to resign anyway.

Teerak: I already told you to just say it all. Shut those loudmouths up for good. Look at P'Te's post, acting all heroic. It's ridiculous.

Fai: "I'll take full responsibility," he says. For what? He hasn't explained a single thing.

Praewa: You're too kind. If it were me, I wouldn't let him off so easily. Think carefully about what you want to do next. That post from Te is so infuriating, ugh.

 

Chop-khun didn't reply to anyone. Instead, he opened X to check the post everyone was talking about. As he read it, he frowned deeply. Although the post was an apology and an admission of guilt, it felt completely insincere. Tewit didn't clarify the truth or even explicitly state that Chop-khun wasn't a third party. It seemed more like a shallow attempt to save face.

 

The replies under Tewit's post were even worse. His fans believed he was taking all the blame to protect others. Some even doubted the truth entirely. Chop-khun was stunned by these comments, but what shocked him more was that Tewit casually reposted them without a second thought. The absurdity didn't end there. When someone asked: What's the truth about P'Khun creating content for the channel? I want to hear it from you, P'Te. Please tell us it's not true. 😭

 

Tewit responded:

There must be some misunderstanding. I built this channel and love it deeply. Every piece of content comes from my dedication and effort.'

 

Since moving on from the past and meeting Intouch, Chop-khun had no desire to involve himself with those people anymore. He'd almost forgotten how Tewit's actions had affected him, how much pain he'd endured to overcome the betrayal. But seeing such a self-serving response reignited the anger and hatred he thought he'd let go of. Memories of Tewit's hurtful actions played vividly in his mind. Tewit hadn't changed one bit-still selfish to the core. Chop-khun felt a surge of rage, not just at Tewit but at himself for giving him a chance to explain.

 

Intouch ended his call with his mother and glanced at Chop-khun, noticing the tension on his face. He grabbed the towel draped over Chop-khun's shoulder and gently dried his damp brown hair while asking what had happened. Chop-khun turned to meet his gaze and recounted everything.

 

Intouch couldn't believe Tewit had the audacity to use Chop-khun's kindness as a shield to protect himself. At the very least, Tewit should've felt remorse and taken responsibility for his actions. But perhaps it was for the best that Tewit's selfishness was so blatant. It might make it easier for Chop-khun to let go of any lingering guilt and make a firm decision.

 

"He's only doing this because he knows you're kind. I don't think you can just let it go this time," Intouch said, gently tugging down the sleeve of Chop-khun's robe and pointing to the words 'Love myself first' inked on his pale skin.

 

"You need to think about yourself for once. You've given him more than enough chances."

 

"…."

 

"I don't want to see you get hurt because of someone like him again."

 

Chop-khun's heart clenched at Intouch's words. From the beginning, Intouch had disagreed with his decision, wanting him to tell the whole truth. Yet, the man never pressured him or let his emotions dictate their conversations. Instead, Intouch supported whatever made Chop-khun comfortable, always offering calm and thoughtful advice. Intouch always prioritised his feelings. But had Chop-khun considered Intouch's feelings? How had Intouch felt, watching Chop-khun give his ex another chance?

 

"I'm sorry, In," Chop-khun apologised, tears streaming down his face. Looking back, his family, friends, fans, and especially Intouch had done everything to protect him. Meanwhile, he'd been too focused on sympathising with those who'd wronged him.

 

"Why are you crying? Why are you apologising to me?" Intouch gently wiped the tears from Chop-khun's cheeks with the back of his hand.

 

"I didn't give him another chance because I still have feelings for him," Chop-khun said, his voice trembling.

 

"I'm sorry if I've hurt you. I didn't mean to." Intouch pulled him into a comforting embrace, softly stroking his brown hair. He could feel the dampness of Chop-khun's tears on his shoulder. He hadn't realised how much Chop-khun had been overthinking everything.

 

"I understand everything, Khun. I've never been upset with your decisions. The only thing that hurts me is seeing you blamed for something you didn't do."

 

Chop-khun sat up straight and wiped his tears. Now wasn't the time to cry.

 

"Last time, I made the wrong decision. I didn't think it through. But this time, I'll tell the whole truth."

 

Even if he doesn't learn his lesson, that jerk will never change. The first thing he did was message the intern to thank her. Her reply was:

 

‘P'Khun, you've always been kind to me. This is nothing. If you need any more help, just let me know. I'm ready. Don't let him off easily, okay?'

 

Chop-khun was genuinely grateful for her support, but now that his situation had escalated into a legal matter, he didn't want her to get into trouble or face lawsuits, even if she was telling the truth. He assured her that he'd handle everything from here on out and told her to contact him immediately if anyone from the company or elsewhere tried to threaten her.

 

The phone on the bedside table buzzed persistently until Chop-khun, who'd been fast asleep, groggily reached for it. Without checking the caller ID, he answered.

 

"Hello?"

 

[Hello, Khun. I'm sorry to bother you so early.] 

 

The familiar voice instantly woke him up. Chop-khun, lying on his side, blinked at Kati, who briefly looked up at him before dozing off again.

 

"It's okay," he said softly, almost in a whisper. "What's wrong, Auntie?"

 

Chop-khun wanted to step out of the room to talk with Pluem’s mother, but the arm loosely wrapped around his waist from the one sleeping behind him made it impossible to move.

 

[I haven't been able to reach Pluem since yesterday. Have you talked to him? He's never disappeared like this before. I'm worried.] 

 

Her voice was filled with concern. "I haven't spoken to him recently. Have you tried contacting any of his friends?"

 

[No, I only have your number. Pluem gave it to me a long time ago. I don't know who else to 

call.]

 

".."

 

[People around here are saying something about Pluem being in the news, but when I ask, no one tells me anything. I don't know how to check on the phone. His grandma couldn't sleep all night after hearing about it.]

 

Chop-khun was at a loss for words. Pluem’s mother and grandmother likely didn't know about the issues between him and Pluem, but the current situation left him feeling genuinely conflicted.

 

[Khun, can you try reaching out to Pluem for me? I'm really sorry to bother you, but I don't know what else to do. I don't know who else to turn to. Pluem is all alone in Bangkok and never tells us when he's in trouble.]

 

Chop-khun pressed his lips together tightly. "I'll try asking around for you."

 

[Thank you so much, Khun. I really appreciate it.]

 

"It's no problem."

 

[At least Pluem has a good friend like you. That eases my mind a little. Anyway, I won't bother you anymore. Come visit us sometime, okay? It's been so long. My mom and I miss you, dear.]

 

"Thank you, Auntie. Please take care of yourself, and send my regards to Grandma."

 

[Okay, okay, I'll let her know. Thank you again. Good luck, dear.]

 

"Yes, goodbye."

 

Chop-khun let out a deep sigh. If Auntie and Grandma found out about Pluem, they'd be utterly heartbroken. But there wasn't much more he could do. He had to protect his own family as well. He tapped into the group chat with his close friends, Praewa and Fai, asking them to try contacting Pluem without mentioning that it was his request. Both agreed to help, though they weren't sure if Pluem would respond since it'd been a long time since they last spoke.

 

The steady warmth of breath against the crook of his neck told him that the person behind him was still sound asleep. Seeing that Intouch hadn't woken up yet, Chop-khun nervously opened X, hoping that there were no more misunderstandings. 

 

Last night, he went live to explain the truth and also posted clarifications in both Thai and English. 

 

Summary of Khun's live explanation:

- The other side provided no clear information and distorted the truth, so I spoke up to protect myself and those defending me from being attacked.

- I dated Te for five years and broke up about four or five months ago.

- The dog, Kati, is mine. The most recent photo of us together was a coincidence, not planned. All other photos are old.

- Regarding Te's channel, I suggested starting it when we were dating. I worked behind the scenes and created content ideas. I have evidence of all the work processes. I did not appear on camera because I was not confident.

- Since the breakup, there has been no communication or contact. There is no chance of getting back together. I have a new partner now.

- I will take legal action against those who excessively slander me or spread false information. My lawyer is gathering evidence. If comments are deleted now, I won't pursue charges.

- Thank you to everyone who has trusted and defended me. I assure you that everything I have said is true.'

 

'You did so much for him, and he still cheated on you. Some people are just never satisfied. Without you, would Te even be where he is today?'

 

‘This is how it should be: clear explanations in both Thai and English. Everyone knows now that you're not at fault, Khun!'

 

'Do you think he regrets it? Look at him commenting on your live stream with his personal IG, begging for forgiveness. He didn't value you when he had you.'

 

'You two shouldn't have broken up. You were a good match.’

 

‘Breaking up was the best decision!!!!!!! Your new bf is so much better than the old one!!!!!!!!!!'

 

‘I'm dumbfounded that Te and Pluem made such a grand announcement about dating right after breaking up with you. How did you get through that? It must've hurt so much.'

 

'Pluem stole his friend's boyfriend, and in the end, he'll just go back to the original one. Choosing the wrong person really changes your life.'

 

‘When they were in love, they didn't think about the consequences. They flaunted their relationship without caring about anyone else. They probably thought they'd never get exposed. Chop-khun must've been so kind to them!

 

‘Even someone as wonderful as Khun got cheated on.'

 

‘Khun is lucky to have escaped from a boyfriend and friend like that.’

 

‘I feel so bad for Khun. At first, he was criticised so harshly.'

 

‘Does Khun still have feelings for him? He gave Te such a big chance at first. But if Khun doesn't feel anything anymore, he's too kind. He needs to protect himself.'

 

‘Before running your mouth, check your bank account first. Would you dare to insult someone like this in real life? Honestly, Khun should sue them all. Don't be too kind.'

 

‘Why start drama when someone else is just succeeding? Are you jealous that you're not as famous as Te, or do you just want money?’

 

‘What drama? P'Khun was kind enough to give him a chance to explain from the start, but your idol chose to keep lying. And about wanting money, don't be ridiculous. P'Khun's dad owns a hospital, his mom owns a gold store, and he's a well-known artist. He wouldn't trade his reputation for something like this. Who'd willingly get insulted for free?'

 

'Unfollowed on all platforms. I don't support cheaters.'

 

'P'Khun's brother posted this. It's starting!'// Attached: Teerak's story saying, 'Save your acting skills for the series. No need to use them in real life (vomit emoji).

 

'Thank you for speaking out. I wanna know the truth real bad.'

 

'You exposed him later because you overestimated Te at first, thinking he'd admit the truth. Turns out, same old behaviour'

 

‘I totally understand how you feel. Getting through this shows how strong you are.'

 

‘Te completely ruined the opportunity. Serves him right."

 

'P'Khun is so kind and genuine, just as I thought. I'm glad I've supported him from the start. Always rooting for you!'

 

'Get back together already. Te is apologising so much.'

 

'Khun is such a good person. I hope only good things come his way.'

 

‘I once saw P'Khun and P'In at Siam. They're both so precious. Let me post the pic.'// Attached: A photo of Chop-khun holding hands with Intouch from behind.

 

‘Before claiming you created content, check the follower count difference first.'

 

'Te is so indecisive, cheating with someone new, then wanting to go back to the old one. So selfish. And yet, some people still defend him.'

 

‘I've followed Te since the beginning, and there's no way someone as kind as him would do this. How well do you know him to criticise him like this?'

 

‘I used to follow Te too, but nothing's the same anymore. These days, he only cares about fans who give him expensive gifts. I'm done.'

 

‘Netizens think they know everything about other people's personal lives.'

 

‘All I ask from the idols I follow is that they don't hurt others. This is so disappointing. I've been defending him.'

 

‘He can separate his work from his personal life. I'll keep watching the series because it's good.'

 

'How could Pluem do this? Stealing a friend's boyfriend and shamelessly replacing them. If it were me, I'd have exposed them the day they announced their relationship. How did Khun even endure it?'

 

‘Te broke up with you just a few months ago and then made a video announcing his relationship with Pluem. How could they do that to you? It's unbelievable.’

 

‘The evidence is so clear, yet some of Te's fans still act oblivious. Love him all you want, but have some sense of right and wrong.'

 

‘Khun has been kind since school. I didn't believe the news from the start.'

 

'It's amazing how people who do such terrible things still have supporters. No matter how bad someone is, they always have a place in the spotlight.’

 

‘Cheating is horrid enough, but stealing credit too? That's a disgusting way to repay someone's love and kindness'

 

‘Hugs to you, P'Khun. You're so strong for getting through this!’

 

'No remorse, no shame. Te is the worst-a total waste of a man.'

 

‘Can't people make mistakes? Or have you never done anything wrong, you so-called good people?'

 

'Honestly, Te only got to where he is because of Khun. Someone like him didn't deserve a chance in the first place.'

 

'Sue them all, Khun. Don't let it slide. Save your kindness for those who care about you.'

 

Look at P'Khun's friends defending him so fiercely. That says it all.'

 

'Te and Pluem are a match made in hell-rotten to the core. They're both awful.'

 

‘I regret ever liking Pluem. I can't support him anymore.'

 

‘Other people's drama is our business.’

 

‘The best boyfriend is the new boyfriend, Khun.'

 

‘Have some sense when shipping, people. Why go back to Te? Khun's new man has been defending him all along. Show him some respect.'

 

‘I once worked with P'In. He's ten times more handsome in photos and a hundred times more in person. Polite, kind, and perfect for P'Khun.'

 

‘So they've been friends since university but fell out over a guy!

 

"I feel bad for the other actors. The series is doing so well. I'll just support the rest of the cast.'

 

'Shameless then, shameless now, and shameless forever. Khun was so kind to them, but they never learned. Te is beyond saving.'

 

‘I don't feel sorry for Pluem. He ruined everything himself. Lost a good friend and lost everything. Why steal your friend's boyfriend in the first place? Think before you act!’

 

‘Te tried to play safe, playing the hero. What role will he play next?’

 

‘Pluem is silent now. Was he really sorry in his earlier posts? What he did to his friend was harsh.'

 

'The company didn't clarify, and Te chose to keep lying. That's why Khun exposed him.'

 

‘I don't think P'Khun has any lingering feelings. He just wants to move on from these people.'

 

‘Cheated on by a boyfriend, betrayed by a friend, and then slandered on top of it all. Unbelievable. Even though he's not at fault, he still has antis.'

 

'Khun's brother is too aggressive. This is a matter between two people; let them handle it.’

 

‘Why shouldn't his bro be upset? If your sibling was insulted for something they didn't do, would you stay quiet? Ridiculous.' #TeamTeerak

 

‘Don't feel bad for P'Khun. He's with someone wonderful now. Did you save the world in your past life, P'Khun?!! //Attached: A photo of Intouch.

 

‘So what if he created content for Te? That was his mistake. What kind of person lets someone else take all the credit? Te is smart, y'know. So, why ruin someone's life now? He stayed quiet for so long.'

 

‘Some fans are beyond help. Blaming the victim, are you for real?

 

'It's okay, Te. People make mistakes. If you're reading this, know that your fans are always here for you. You're our smile and strength. Those who wish you harm will face their own karma.’

 

'Khun did all that for Te because he loved him. He's a good person. But calling Te smart for taking credit? That just makes both him and his fans look disgusting. Who else would Te's worst enemy be if not himself?'

 

'If you keep supporting actions like this, fine. I hope you meet someone like this irl too.'

 

'If Te is still part of the fan meeting, I'm not going. The company needs to take decisive action. Ignoring this for money without caring about what's right is just disgusting.'

 

‘Wow, after everything he did, he still has the audacity to beg for forgiveness. Someone like Te doesn't deserve anyone's love.'

 

‘Please support P'Khun's channel! It's amazing, you won't be disappointed. //Attached: Channel link.

 

'If his name's on it, count me out. I'll wait for other events.'

 

'Can I fangirl over In instead? Where can I find someone like him?' Attached: //Intouch's IG post of Chop-khun playing with Kati, captioned: You're the best person I've ever met. Everyone would fall for you as I do.

 

Chop-khun scrolled through the comments, reminding himself not to overthink. However, being criticised for his personal life wasn't something he was used to, nor could he easily brush it off without feeling anything. Some comments stung, leaving him momentarily speechless. But the supportive messages had a greater impact on him. He'd already told the truth, and if people still chose to rebuke him, that was their problem, not his. From now on, he decided to focus only on those who loved and cared for him, rather than the ones spewing trash without even knowing him.

 

"Have you been awake long?" a groggy voice asked from behind, accompanied by an even tighter embrace. The bare chest pressed against his back radiated warmth that Chop-khun could feel on his skin.

 

"Not that long. You can go back to sleep, In. I will go shower first. We have plans with Ing and Teerak today." Intouch lifted his head from the pillow, squinting at the clock on the wall. "It's just past seven. Stay in bed with me a little longer." 

 

Without waiting for a response, the man buried his face into the back of Chop-khun's neck, planting playful kisses that made Chop-khun scrunch his neck and giggle from the ticklish sensation.

 

"Just a little while, pretty please?"

 

Chop-khun smiled at the plea. He knew Intouch was still very sleepy since they hadn't gone to bed until two in the morning. Besides, he also wanted to keep holding Intouch.

 

"Alright, alright. Let's stay in bed a bit longer," Chop-khun relented, his voice soft. He turned to wrap his arms around Intouch's strong frame. Within minutes, both of them drifted back to sleep, unaware that Kati was watching everything unfold.

 

The meeting between Teerak and Ingfah surprised Chop-khun quite a bit. The four of them had been eating together for less than an hour, yet Teerak and Ingfah were chatting as if they'd known each other for years.

 

"What's your IG handle? I'll tag everyone when I post this on my story."

 

"Give me your phone, P'Ing. I'll type it in for you."

 

And just like that, Teerak had officially dubbed Ingfah as another 'big sis,' a title she seemed to adore, as she mentioned she'd always wanted a younger sibling. The two hit it off, especially when the topic turned to shopping. Their conversation flowed so naturally that they ended up inviting everyone to stroll around a nearby mall. Intouch agreed, thinking it'd be good for Chop-khun to take his mind off social media for a while.

 

"Are you ordering dessert?" Intouch asked.

 

"I want to, but I'm watching my weight," Chop-khun replied.

 

"I'll share it with you," Intouch offered. Chop-khun had once said that delicious food could heal the soul.

 

"But you don't eat sweets, In."

 

"Are you sure about that?" Intouch leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper near Chop-khun's ear. "I eat sweets often enough."

 

Chop-khun tilted his head, frowning in puzzlement. But when he saw the sly smirk on Intouch's face, his cheeks flushed. He lightly swatted Intouch's arm, only to notice their younger siblings watching with knowing smiles.

 

"I'll order dessert. Does anyone else want some?" Chop-khun stammered; his flustered face almost made the three people watching burst out laughing.

 

"Not me. Just looking at you two is sweet enough," Teerak teased, earning a high-five from Ingfah, who was giggling uncontrollably. Intouch simply smiled, saying nothing more.

 

"If you ever get a boyfriend, I'll make fun of you non-stop. Just wait," Chop-khun said, pouting slightly before turning to Ingfah. 

 

"What about you, Ing? Want any dessert?"

 

"I'd like some cake, P’Khun."

 

Hearing that, Chop-khun immediately scanned the room for a staff member to request a menu. After placing their orders, Teerak excused himself to use the restroom. Chop-khun, wanting to talk to his brother, decided to follow.

 

"How's everything at home, Rak? Has anyone said anything?"

 

"No one's said anything. Even Auntie Mei keeps ranting about P'Te, saying, 'How could he do this to you? If I see him, I'll pull his hair out."

 

"Really?"

 

"Fine, I made up the last part," Teerak admitted with a laugh. "But seriously, don't overthink it. You're not the one at fault here. You didn't even start this mess."

 

Chop-khun exhaled through his nose. "Thanks for standing up for me like this. I hate that you're getting dragged into it, too."

 

Teerak stopped walking and looked down at his brother's downcast face. "I don't care about that. If they cuss me out, I'll just clap back. Besides, since your post last night, the hate has died down, and more people are even siding with me." He paused, biting his lip. "But there's something I need to tell you, too."

 

"What is it?" Chop-khun asked, noticing the serious expression. "You can tell me anything."

 

"I can't hold it anymore. Wait here," Teerak said before darting into the restroom, leaving his brother shaking his head, thinking it was something severe.

 

Chop-khun pulled his phone from his pocket, intending to check X but instead decided to play a game. As he glanced around, he spotted someone walking by.

 

"Kim! Kim!" Chop-khun called out, waving enthusiastically.

 

"Oh, Khun!" Kim looked surprised.

 

"What a goddamn coincidence! " Haven't seen you since the reunion," Chop-khun said with a wide smile. "How have you been? Doing well?"

 

"I'm good, just a bit busy lately," Kim replied, studying Chop-khun's demeanour. "And you? How are you holding up?"

 

Kim's tone and expression made it clear he'd seen the news. It wasn't unexpected, as Praewa had mentioned that most of their university friends were already aware of it. Chop-khun smiled. "I'm doing great. Don't worry about me. Still the same hottie as ever, see? Thanks for asking, tho."

 

Kim felt relieved to see that Chop-khun wasn't too down.

 

"By the way, are you going to Prae's wedding?" Chop-khun asked.

 

"Not sure yet. What about you?"

 

"Of course! I wouldn't miss it. If you're free, you should come. A lot of our friends will be there."

 

Kim nodded. "I'll see if I can clear my schedule.. And who are you here with?"

 

"I'm here with my boyfriend. He's waiting at the table with his little sister. What about you? Don't tell me you're here with your significant other."

 

"I'm here with a friend."

 

"Oh, really?" Chop-khun narrowed his eyes, grinning mischievously.

 

"What's that supposed to mean?" Kim asked, smiling and almost reaching out to ruffle Chop-khun's hair out of habit, but stopping himself just in time. "I don't have a partner."

 

Just then, Teerak emerged from the restroom. "Oh, Rak, perfect timing! This is my friend from uni, Kim."

 

When Teerak met Kim's gaze, his eyes widened. Why is the world so small?!

 

"And this is my little brother, Teerak."

 

"Teerak, huh? That's a lovely name."

 

Chop-khun was too focused on his brother's odd behaviour to notice the faint smirk on Kim's face. Teerak hastily greeted Kim before excusing himself to return to the table.

 

After spending the afternoon shopping together, everyone eventually went their separate ways. Teerak had plans with friends, while Ingfah drove herself home. Chop-khun and Intouch, however, found themselves stuck in traffic, taking over an hour to get back. As they carried their shopping bags upstairs, the doorbell rang.

 

"I'll get it," Intouch offered.

 

"No, it's okay. I'll go. Can you play with Kati so he doesn't follow me out?"

 

Chop-khun then walked down to open the small gate, curiosity piqued. When he saw who it was, he immediately tried to shut the door.

 

"Khun, please, let's talk."

 

Chop-Khun stumbled as Tewit pushed the door open. The smell of alcohol was intense, indicating he'd been drinking quite heavily.

 

"Get out."

 

"How long are you going to avoid me? Can we just talk and settle this?"

 

"I have nothing to talk to you about."

 

"You know I could sue you for that post, right? But I won't."

 

Ha. Sue me? Where did he get the audacity to say that?

 

"If you want to sue, go ahead," Chop-khun replied coldly. "Don't act like you're doing me a favour."

 

"I wouldn't do that." Tewit's tone softened. "I came here to apologise. I was wrong to post what I did. I was just following the company's orders."

 

"Are you done rambling?"

 

"I'm sorry for everything. I'm sorry for what our relationship has become," Tewit went silent for a moment, his voice trembling. "I still love you... so much. Can you give me another chance? I promise I won't hurt you again. I've truly realised my mistakes."

 

Chop-khun took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. He'd never had a proper conversation with Tewit about this before. It was time to end things once and for all.

 

"Have you forgotten what you did to me? You treated me like I didn't have feelings, like I didn't have a heart. And now you're asking for another chance? It's ridiculous. Listen, I don't have any feelings left for you. If you truly love me as you claim, then stop bothering me." 

 

Chop-khun spoke, his voice steady but devoid of emotion. His indifferent demeanour and empty gaze felt like a knife to Tewit's heart. 

 

"From now on, if we see each other, don't say anything. Just walk past me as if we've never met in this lifetime. I don't want anything to do with you anymore."

 

Chop-khun turned away the moment he finished speaking, but his wrist was yanked back forcefully.

 

"Ouch!" Chop-khun winced. "Te, let go. That hurts."

 

"No, Khun. Not like this. I won't accept it," 

 

Tewit pleaded, his voice trembling. "You can rebuke me, curse me, do whatever you want. I'll take it all. I don't even need to be an actor anymore. But can we go back to how we used to be? Can you really forget me? I don't believe it. I've never been able to forget you, not for a single day. I'm sorry, I realised it too late. I was stupid."

 

"Let go. You're hurting me. You're drunk." Chop-khun prepared to twist his wrist free using the self-defence techniques he'd learned. But before he could, someone else pried Tewit's hand off him: Tewit turned to see Intouch, his face twisted in anger. He shouted, losing all composure, "What's your fucking problem? Stay out of this!"

 

Intouch pulled Chpo-khun behind him. He's my boyfriend; I have every right to protect him. And you're trespassing and using force on someone else's property."

 

"Someone else's property? What right do you have to act like you own this house? Just so you know, Khun built this house for me. You're nothing but a stand-in for me," Tewit snapped, his voice rising, his face openly showing his displeasure.

 

"Whatever helps you sleep at night, that's your business. It has nothing to do with me. But if you don't leave now, I'll call the police," Intouch said flatly as if he was unbothered by Tewit's words.

 

"You think I'm scared, bastard?"

 

As the tension escalated, Kati came running out, barking loudly and positioning himself between the two men. Seeing the Pomeranian, Tewit smirked and called out to the dog in a familiar tone, his eyes challenging Intouch. He believed Kati, who'd spent more time with him and shared a deeper bond, would undoubtedly choose him.

 

Winning over Chop-khun's new boyfriend in this small way would be enough for him. But when Kati didn't move toward him, he called again.

 

"Kati, come to me," Intouch suddenly said.

 

Chop-khun's heart raced as Intouch spoke. He hadn't expected the situation to unfold like this. He watched his dog, who stood still, glancing between Intouch and Tewit as if deep in thought. Then Kati turned to look at him, tilting his head back and forth.

 

Please choose the right person, Kati, Chop-khun prayed silently. Each second felt like an eternity. But in a moment, Kati ran to Intouch, jumping up and clinging to his leg,

begging to be picked up as he often did. Chop-khun exhaled in relief before turning to Tewit.

 

"Don't overestimate your importance. You had no part in this house, not even a little," Chop-khun said harshly, unable to hold back his anger after hearing Tewit berate Intouch earlier. "Get out of my house and out of my life."

 

Tewit was speechless, stunned by the seriousness in Chop-khun's eyes. He could only stand there, watching as Chop-khun turned and walked back into the house with his new boyfriend and the dog that had once loved him as much as its owner.

 

He glanced around the house he was seeing for the first time, clenching his fists when he noticed the two cars parked side by side and the two pairs of shoes neatly placed by the door. His bitter gaze landed on the small garden in front of the house, triggering memories of a past conversation.

 

"I will make a little garden for Kati and Kaitun to play in. What style do you think would be nice, Te?"

 

"I don't know. Do whatever you want."

 

"But this is our house."

 

"I like everything you come up with."

 

Tewit wiped the tears from the corners of his eyes with the back of his hand, muttering angrily under his breath.

 

"Damn it."

 

There was no longer any place in Chop-khun's life for him. The place that had once been his now belonged to someone else. 

 

The public backlash forced the company to issue another apology. Tewit was suspended from work and removed from the lineup for fan meetings scheduled in multiple countries. The upcoming series he'd already done fittings for replaced him with another actor. Brands began dropping him as their ambassador, citing damage to their image. His social media followers across all platforms continued to dwindle.

 

As for Pluem, he hadn't posted anything since. From what Chop-khun heard from Praewa, Pluem had resigned from his job and temporarily moved back home to live with his mother and grandmother. What saddened Chop-khun the most was the day Pluem's mother called him, repeatedly apologising and crying uncontrollably before begging him to reconcile with Pluem. Chop-khun had told her it wasn't her fault and that she didn't need to apologise for anyone. He still respected her and her mother as always, but he couldn't bring himself to forgive Pluem just yet.

 

The chaos surrounding him gradually faded as new dramas replaced his story almost daily. Nonetheless, there were still people who supported and encouraged him. 

 

Within a week, his YouTube channel gained over 100,000 new subscribers. The views on his old videos steadily increased, and the recently uploaded Phuket vlog received positive feedback and significant attention. Several major brands even reached out to sponsor him. Although life was beginning to return to normal, there were still occasional anti-fans hurling insults. 

 

Chop-khun no longer paid attention to them, leaving his lawyer to handle the legal side. Honestly, he didn't want to sue anyone, but the jarring words and excessive attacks couldn't be ignored. Yet, one thing that still puzzled him and remained unresolved was the identity of the person who created the X account to expose Tewit and post his private photos...