Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Gun has learned not to ask too many questions about the clientele that frequents Newton's club. When he had first applied half a year ago as one of the club's night dancers, Newton's first question had been:

"Are you a nosy person?"

"Er..." Sure, Gun does love the occasional gossip, but he knows when to not stick his nose in somewhere. "Uh, not really."

He's been here for close to 7 months and has more or less figured out that Newton and his younger brothers don't exactly run a clean business. However, Gun closes an eye and a ear to the thing he witnesses and hears - simply because this job pays handsomely well compared to his past dancing gigs. What he likes most is that the club enforces an immensely strict "no touching" rule when it comes to their boys, so he doesn't have to fear being touched unnecessarily.

Gun knows he's got quite the pretty face and a figure that's nothing to sneer at, so he figures that he might as well use it to earn some extra cash on the side. Rent's expensive and Gun does prefer the finer things in life when it comes to his clothes and accessories. Besides, the rest of the boys here were extremely friendly and likeable, so he doesn't see any reason to leave anytime soon.

Newton was pretty laidback for a boss, mostly leaving the operations for Faifa, the youngest brother, to handle. He was very well-liked and with good reason - always striking up conversation with staff and customers. He was the first person anyone would look for if they ever run into any trouble.

Yotha...well, Gun doesn't think he has much to say about that particular brother. Yotha seems complicated. Although he shows up at the club often, he mostly keeps to himself or disappears into one of the private rooms on the second floor. When Gun had first joined, the other dancers had warned him against talking to Yotha, citing that the male wasn't too fond of conversation. But Gun had tried nevertheless, and was still trying to this day, only to be met with either 1) silence or a soulless "hmm".

"He's always been like that." Faifa hands Gun his drink of the night. "Don't take it personally. Besides, you've got me to talk to."

"But I'm so bored of talking to you, Faifa!"

"Ass."

Gun sticks his tongue out at his friend.

"You can joke around like this with me, but don't try it with Yotha."

Gun's not one to let others tell him what to do.

"Gun." He's about to leave for the night when Faifa waves at him from one of the empty booths. Gun heads over, immediately resting his tired body in one of the empty cushioned seats. "I know you're done for the night, but Sand called in sick at the last minute. Do you mind covering his shift? P'Newton said he'll pay you triple the usual hourly rate."

The mention of extra money perks him right up, "Sure!"

A shadow falls over the table, alerting the pair to the newcomer's presence. Gun realizes that it's Yotha, immaculately dressed in all black (as always), and he immediately breaks out into a sunny smile, "Hello, Yotha!"

Yotha's gaze flicks over at Gun, simply nodding his head in response. His gaze then trails lower, lingering briefly on Gun's exposed collarbones. It's then that Gun realizes that he's still wearing out of his outfits from his shift - but it wasn't as if he was the self-conscious sort. He continues smiling up at Yotha, wondering at the back of his mind as to how worlds apart he was from both Newton and Faifa. 

"Wow, you're finally here. I've been cracking my head for hours over this month's accounts and you finally stroll in."

"I'm here, aren't I?" Yotha snaps back irritably.

Gun's gaze goes from Faifa to Yotha, then back to Faifa again before he decides to excuse himself. "Well, I should be getting ready for my next shift." He inches his way out of the booth. ''See you guys later!''

- / -

Yotha refrains from letting his gaze linger longer than usual as Gun takes his leave, occupying the male's now empty seat. He can smell Gun's lingering perfume in the air - something close to white jasmine. He watches as Gun stops at the bar to claim his free beverage of the night, skin glittering from the body glitter that he loves spraying on before he goes up on stage. Yotha has no choice but to look as Gun rests his elbows against the bar, his body curving sensually while leans forward.

"Yotha - are you even listening to me?"

He snaps his attention back to an already-annoyed Faifa. "I am."

"Okay, so your eyes weren't completely glued to Gun then." Faifa's annoyance is now replaced with playfulness, which makes it ten times more annoying. "Hm, thinking back...you're only ever here on the nights that Gun's working."

"If you're going to continue talking nonsense, I'm going upstairs."

"Not so fast, brother dear." Faifa smiles sweetly at him. "I need you to keep an eye out for tonight. P'Arm is on sick leave so we're one man down on security. I have a shit ton of reports to look through tonight. So that leaves you to make sure none of our customers get their grubby hands on the dancers tonight. And by that, you need to make sure that you look out for everyone, not just Gun."

- / -

It's not exactly a secret that Gun is one of the club's highly sought-after dancers. He takes pride in that and makes sure not to half-ass it, even if some of these men gives him the heebies jeebiee. But money is money, and there's a pair of Prada shades he's had his sights on for the longest time.

It's his last dance for the night for a group sitting in a private booth. The tips are usually generous. He just needs to make sure their glasses are always refilled and that their gazes don't leave him until he clocks off. The group reek of heavy cigarette smoke, which truly turns him off, but Gun maintains his sexy allure, counting down until he's done for the night.

He's startled when one of them stands up and suddenly grabs him by the wrist, interrupting his routine.

"Sir." Gun keeps his tone sweet and polite - it's the first thing they're asked to do. Accidents happen and clients do sometimes forget the rules out of excitement, in which they'll then hastily apologize. Most of the time, Force gives them a stern warning. "Kindly note that the club enforces a string no-touching rule. You'll be escorted out of the club if you fail to follow the rules."

Usually, they'll back away and immediately apologize.

This customer is not someone that Gun's familiar with, but he's beginning to get a sense that he might be trouble. Still, Gun maintains his cool.

"Sir. Please let go of my hand." He injects some firmness into his tone.

Instead, the other male simply tightens his grip around Gun's bony wrist, grinning up at him. "Come on, a lil touch isn't going to hurt. I'm paying you good money to entertain me tonight."

Gun's patience is beginning to run thin. Since he's not going to heed Gun's verbal warnings, then Gun will simply have to show him that he is not to be touched. Gun's best bet out of this situation would be to signal for the bouncers' help, but he's barely able to do so when the customer suddenly grabs his other wrist while the rest cheers him on.

This fucker- Gun's ready to headbutt the shit out of this customer, but before he can take any sort of action, there's already a fist flying into the man's face straight on. It catches him off guard enough that he completely loosens his hold around Gun's wrists.

And then Yotha is on the asshole, not pulling back on his punches as he drags the light-haired male out of the booth until he topples on the floor. Gun can only watch from his spot in the middle of the table, rooted to the spot while Yotha rains one punch after another. He's pulled back by Faifa and their bartender for the night, thrashing against their hold.

"You fucker!" The customer's sporting a bloody lip and a bruised eye, another bruise blossoming on his cheek as well. "Is this how you treat your paying customers?!"

"You touched me first, asshole! Faifa - you can check the CCTVs, right?" Gun quickly jumps to Yotha's defense.

Everything else moves swiftly after that - the idiot threatens to sue (huh!), they're immediately kicked out of the club and banned from entering indefinitely. Faifa gestures for both Yotha and Gun to enter his office upstairs, pinching the bridge of his nose when Yotha glowers at him.

"I'm sorry." Gun says as soon as he shuts the door behind them.

"Why are you apologizing?" Both Faifa and Yotha turn to him at the same time, their brows furrowed.

Gun has no idea why either. He shrinks back against the door, offering Faifa a grateful smile when his friends hands him a jacket to cover himself up with.

"Yotha." Faifa begins with a sigh as he sinks into his chair. "I already told you that if such things happen, let the security deal with it. They're here for a reason. Stop taking matters into your own hands. Do you know who that was?"

"A scumbag."

Gun laughs, but hastily clears his throat when Faifa gives him a look. He zips the jacket up, pulling the sleeves down to his clammy hands.

"Yes, he's a first grade asshole. But you stepped on his tail and even if he might be too scared shitless to go after you, what if he goes after Gun instead?"

"Uh..." Gun interrupts the brothers. "Who exactly is he and should I be worried?"

"He's someone we do business with, and no, you have nothing to be worried about. Nam is mostly all bark and no bite. You saw how he was too chicken to take a swing at Yotha. Anyway, you've had a long night, Ai'Gun. I'm sorry - I really shouldn't have had you take over Sand's shift."

"It's fine, Faifa. I'm just glad Yotha was around when it happened."

"I'm just happy he broke that asshole's nose. It's late - I'll get Kong to drive you home."

"No need." Yotha says briskly, standing up. "I'll send him home."

Gun's head whips so quickly to the side in disbelief that it's a miracle he didn't accidentally strain his neck.

"You?"

Faifa is staring at Yotha as if he's sprouted an additional head. As usual, Yotha says nothing else, already making his way out of the room.

"I'm...going to be fine, right?" Gun asks his friend uncertainly before glancing over at Yotha's retreating back.

"Hopefully."

"That's not very convincing, Faifa!!"

- / -

To Gun's surprise, Yotha escorts him all the way to the changing rooms which the dancers use as a changing and resting area.

"I'll just quickly go grab my stuff."

He's surrounded by other concerned dancers as soon as he enters, reassuring them repeatedly that he's truly alright.

"Look, I promise I'll share everything tomorrow. But I really need to leave now- Yotha's giving me a ride home and-"

"Yotha's giving you a ride home?" One of them echoes out loud, much to the amusement of the others. "Yotha? Shit, I don't know which one's scarier..."

Gun stuffs his belongings into his bag and calls out a hasty goodbye, knowing that Yotha had probably heard the exchange inside. Even so, Yotha shows no indication whatsoever as he starts leading the way towards the back exit where his car's parked out in the alleyway.

"Uh.." Gun hesitates when Yotha opens the passenger seat for him. "I...don't really want to get the seat dirty. I mean - I'm all sweaty and there's glitter all over my legs-"

"It's fine." Yotha cuts in curtly. "Get in."

Well, there's really no choice. He carefully gets in, admiring the sleek interior of the car. He doesn't know much about them, but Yotha clearly has expensive taste. He's startled when the male reaches across to pull the passenger seat door close from the driver's side.

While Yotha probably prefers silence while driving, Gun really can't stand the silence. The car engine thrums smoothly as it moves towards its destination, Yotha keeping one hand steady on the steering wheel.

"Thanks. For just now - helping me."

Gun hates how awkward he sounds.

At Yotha's silence, Gun lets out an annoyed huff, "You know, the usual response when someone says thank you is to reply with a "you're welcome"."

It was too dark to see Yotha's expression, but Gun swears he sees the corner of his mouth twitch slightly.

"You're welcome."

Gun hums, pleased. "See? That wasn't so hard."

With it being so late at night, traffic was exceptionally smooth and the car pulls up to the front of Gun's condominium in less than twenty-five minutes. He's unbuckling his seatbelt when he realizes that he hadn't told Yotha his address at all. Bewildered, he turns to face the other.

''...how did you know where I live?''

''It's on the employee records.''

Gun's lips splits into a cheeky smile the moment he registers Yotha's answer, ''Oh, so you took a little peek at my employee records, huh?'' He knew that there was no reason for Yotha to do that at all, and to memorize his address? This was interesting. Still, he figures that he has teased Yotha enough for tonight.

''Thanks for sending me home, Yotha. And for playing the knight in not-so-shining-armor.'' He raises his hand in a waving gesture. ''I'll see you Wednesday night? I'm off tomorrow.''

He's confused when Yotha unbuckles his own seatbelt, ''Where are you going?''

''Faifa asked me to walk you up to your apartment.''

''He worries too much. But really, it's fine - the security here is really good-''

''I'm walking you up.''

No arguments.

Huh, it's turning out to be quite the night. Sensing that there was no room for argument, Gun dutifully steps out of the car, sparing a glance towards the other male. He flashes his condominium pass at the security booth, explaining that Yotha was a friend accompanying him upstairs. Even if Yotha wasn't going to make any attempt at conversation during the elevator ride up, Gun talks enough for the both of them until they reach the end of the corridor where his apartment is.

''Tell Faifa I'm home safe and sound, or do you need to send him a video recording of me entering the apartment?'' Gun jokes while he slots the key in, the door clicking open a second later. ''I'd invite you in, but I think you've probably had enough social interaction for the night. i know I've said thanks, but...I really do mean it.'' He offers the dark-haired male a grateful smile. ''Good night, Yotha.''

He expects Yotha to simply nod and take his leave, but is surprised when the other replies, ''Don't have nightmares.''

It's an odd thing to say, but getting a reply from Yotha makes Gun feel like he's achieved some sort of prized lottery.  Once the door clicks shut behind him and the lock is turned, Gun rests his weight against it with an exhale. What a night. As unpleasant as the whole encounter at the club had been, Gun wouldn't deny that it almost felt like a worthy trade-off to actually be able to spend some time with Yotha. His phone buzzes in the back pocket of his denim shorts and as expected, it's Faifa.

''Are you home safe?''

Gun toes his sneakers off and throws himself onto the sofa with muffled groan, ''Yes. And you didn't need to ask Yotha to walk me up - that's a bit too much, Ai'Fah.''

''Huh? I didn't ask Yotha to walk you up. I only told him to update me once he's dropped you off. Which he of course didn't do.''

''Oh..'' Gun finds himself smiling stupidly up at the ceiling. ''I probably misheard. It's been a crazy night.''

''I understand if you want to take the week off. I could get someone else to take over your slot on Wednesday night.

Gun reassures Faifa that he's fine to work and the call ends once the male on the other end was done nagging about Gun getting some proper rest. He should really get himself into the bathroom, but instead, he finds himself distracted by thoughts about Yotha. Gun muffles a yawn behind his palm, eyes blinking blearily up at the ceiling.

''Don't have nightmares.''

Chapter Text

''So I asked you to walk Gun up to his apartment, huh?''

An all-too smug Faifa was sitting at the dining table with his half-empty glass of wine, eyes alight with mischief. Yotha makes a beeline for the stairs, not planning on indulging Faifa's attempt at teasing him.

''I've never really pegged you for the pretty boy type, but huh, I guess your taste does change with age-''

Without looking back, Yotha holds his right middle finger up at his brother, blocking out the other male's annoying cackle. In the privacy of his bedroom, Yotha wonders if it's really that obvious that he's intrigued by Gun. It's almost annoying how he's always so friendly and cheery, bulldozing past Yotha's complete lack of response with his endless questions and chatter. He was so well-liked by everyone else, some of them even dubbing him the 'sunshine' of the club because of his cheeky antics and extroverted persona.

He finds himself replaying Gun's bright smile while waving goodbye earlier on, stuck on the way the other had pronounced his name. Yotha. People usually call his name out in a tone that's tinged with fear and hesitance, but Gun had said it so...it had sounded just right coming from him.

As Yotha carries on with his usual routine of removing the accessories from his wrist and fingers, his mind drifts towards the very time had had crossed paths with Gun. Yotha had stepped out of the cubicle in the staff bathroom to the chaotic sight of someone being sprayed head-on by the faulty tap, and any attempt to stop the water from spraying everywhere was futile. Calmly, Yotha had walked over to to twist the handle at the bottom. Immediately, the sprays then dwindled down to a gentle trickle instead. Yotha found himself smiling at the sight of a completely soaked Gun, the male's eyes squeezed shut as he dabbed at his face with the sleeves of his shirt.

Cute.

That was what Yotha had thought then.

Fast forward to now, he still thinks the statement rings true.

- / -

"Great work tonight, everyone. Thanks for all your hard work, get home safe."

Everyone disperses to do their own things, most in a hurry to get changed and head home. Gun sighs, for once dreading the idea of returning to his condominium. His distress must be showing because Faifa takes one look at his face and immediately approaches him.

"What's with the long face?"

"My neighbor in the condo group chat just said that the power's been out for the past hour. It's so late too, I don't think it'll be up so soon." Gun sinks down into the chair, peering up at Faifa. "I can't even crash at Franc's because he's out of town."

Faifa was aware of Gun's struggle with the dark, so he didn't have to go into detail as to why he was feeling this particular way. Faifa squeezes him on the shoulder, "Tell you what - why don't you use Yotha's room for tonight? He's not coming back to the club tonight since he's keeping my dad company at home."

Gun doesn't want to get his hopes up, but he instantly brightens up, "Really?"

"Go ahead. There should be some spare amenities in the room. Just...don't touch any of his stuff."

"Wouldn't dare to." Gun gratefully brings his palms up together. "Thank you, Faifa."

Faifa passes him the key later on and Gun gratefully makes his way towards the third floor where the spare room is. It was a modest size space equipped with a queen-sized bed, dresser and a two-seater sofa. Gun carefully places his sneakers outside the room, taking in the surroundings. There wasn't anything much to indicate that this was Yotha's space, but the black silk sheets should be obvious enough.  He thinks he should feel bad for being in Yotha's space, but it's somewhat comforting.

He finds the spare pajamas and amenities kit in the bottom drawer, wasting in no time in getting into the shower and changed so that he could quickly call it a night. Sleep was a tricky thing for Gun. Getting at least four hours would be considered a win for Gun, especially if his slumber wasn't punctuated by nightmares. He sighs as he slips under the covers, leaving the bedside lamp on. Sleeping in a new environment always brought some form of anxiety ever since what happened to him as a child, but he's learned to weather through it.

Then again, he must be more exhausted than usual.

Again, it's the same nightmare that accompanies Gun's slumber. Him stuck in a dark shed, the door locked from the outside. He can hear the rapid pounding of his heartbeat, the hoarseness of his throat as he continues screaming for help. The darkness feels absolutely overwhelming and suffocating. In his dream, Gun's trying to convince himself that it's fine, nothing's going to happen to him, but yet, the dread continues creeping up on him.

''Gun.''

Gun stills, clinging onto the sound.

He's usually alone in these nightmares.

''Gun!''

He tries to say something, but it comes out as a whimper. Gun whirls around, desperately trying to find the source of the voice in the darkness.

''Gunyukhol.''

He's immediately shaken out of his nightmare, desperately grasping for the first thing he can set his hands on for some semblance of comfort to ground himself. He wills for his heart rate to slow down to normal, and it takes a moment for Gun to realize that Yotha is peering down at him - the worry and concern evident in his eyes.

He should be embarassed that he's practically got his arms wrapped around Yotha's midsection, but all Gun can feel is sheer relief. A few minutes later, Gun accepts the bottle of water that Yotha hands to him, offering the male a sheepish smile.

''Sorry you had to see that.'' He says after the first two sips, knowing that Yotha would probably want a explanation. ''Uh, before you ask what I'm doing here - the power at my condo went out, so Faifa said I could spend the night here. I...don't do so well with the dark because of something that happened when I was a kid. But since you're back, I'll just maybe go bunk on the couch in Faifa's office or something-'' He makes a move to get up from the bed, but is abruptly stopped by Yotha's adamant 'no'.

But before he can question why, the curtain separating the room from the hallway slides open and Faifa enters. He's not expecting to see Yotha, concern bleeding into his expression when he realizes that Gun's awake as well.

''Are you okay, Gun?''

''I had a nightmare. The usual.''

Faifa turns to his brother, ''I thought you were keeping dad company at home today.''

''He went out, so I came back to spend the night here.''

''In that case, Gun can use my room and-''

''No.'' Yotha gives his brother a defiant look, as if daring Faifa to comment on his answer. ''He can have the bed. I'll sleep on the sofa.''

''Well, it's your back that's going to hurt tomorrow.'' Faifa shrugs his shoulders, though he knows better than to say anything else. ''Get some sleep, Gun.''

''Thanks, Faifa.''

Once Faifa takes his leave, Gun takes one of the pillows, ''It's okay, Yotha. I can take the sofa.''

The bed is wide enough for two, but Gun doesn't think that Yotha would be alright with the idea of being in such close proximity with someone that he's not exactly friends with.

''I'm fine with the sofa.'' Gun doesn't get a chance to protest because Yotha's already disappearing into the bathroom to get changed.

He gets back under the covers, gazing up at the ceiling as he waits for Yotha to be done. The door clicks open a few minutes later and the male re-emerges. The silence stretches on while Yotha makes himself as comfortable as he can on the sofa.

''I can feel you staring at me, Gun. What is it?''

''Are you sure you can sleep with the lights on?''

''I spent a good portion of my childhood sharing a room with Faifa. He snores. Loudly.'' Yotha looks at Gun. ''This is nothing.''

Appeased by the answer, Gun nods.

''...anything else that you want to ask?''

''Can I?'' Gun might as well grab this opportunity.

Yotha hums wordlessly, waiting.

''Then...'' Gun asks the first question that pops into his mind. ''Are you dating anyone?''

Yotha raises an eyebrow.

Realizing how it must look sound like, a flustered Gun hastily backpedals, '' I mean, I'm just curious. Plus, I work here - it's not like I don't notice some of the customers flirting with you.'' He doesn't realize how put-out he sounds by that.

''Being in a relationship is too messy.'' Yotha rolls over to his side, showing his back to Gun. ''I guess I can assume you're not in a relationship.''

''...why's that?''

''People in a relationship usually don't have time to be curious about other people.''

It takes a moment for Yotha's answer to click, and a second later, Gun lets out an offended gasp. ''Yotha, you jerk! You're calling me nosy!''

- / -

Gun feels bad, he truly does. Which was why he had gone out bright and early to buy breakfast for the brothers before heading back. Surprisingly enough, Yotha had told him that he'd be driving Gun home. It hadn't been a question, or a suggestion, but more of a statement. Speak of the devil, Gun thinks when Yotha strolls into Faifa's personal office.

''I'm driving Gun home.''

''Don't you have a meeting with dad and a business investor? Yotha, please don't tell me you forgot. And are you going to turn up like that? You know dad always insists on you wearing a tie and looking neat when it comes to any business-related things.''

''You're such a nag, Ai'Fah. I didn't forget about the business meeting.''

Gun suppresses a laugh when he notices Yotha's pinched eyebrows. Deciding that he'll save Yotha a nagging from Faifa, he clears his throat, ''Don't worry, Faifa. He's just going to drop me off.''

''If you say so. Get some rest, Gun. Text me if anything crops up.''

This time round, Gun doesn't hesitate at all before getting into Yotha's car. He hadn't slept well and he's looking forward to the comfort of being in his own bed and apartment. As soon as he's buckled in, Gun's out like a light, only waking up when he feels a tap on his thigh. He blinks blearily, realizing that the car's already parked outside of his condominium.

''You should get going, or you'll be late to meet your dad.''

Saying it doesn't make a difference because Yotha accompanies him all the way up to his apartment, just like the first time.

''Aren't you going to put on your tie? Faifa made it sound like your dad's really particular about it.''

Yotha mumbles something which Gun doesn't catch.

''...what?''

Yotha sighs in exasperation, avoiding looking Gun in the eyes. '' I said, I don't know how to tie it.''

Gun's attempt to muffle his gleeful giggle doesn't work. It's not an answer that he was expecting to come from Yotha. The male glowers at him, protesting when Gun makes a grab for the rolled up tie peeking out from the side pocket of his tailored slacks.

He loops the length of it around Yotha's neck, adjusting the length. Back in university, the school tie had been a mandatory requirement for his uniform, so this was an easy task for him.

"It's not that hard." Gun says, nimble fingers working on creating the perfect knot, not realizing yet that Yotha was looking at him.

If Gun was to look up now, he'd find Yotha with an expression that would seem almost fond.

"...and there we go." Gun gently pulls the knot up, making sure that it was sitting nicely under the collar.

He glances up and finds himself meeting Yotha's gaze. To be on the receiving end of it was enough to make the tip of his ears redden and he waits for Yotha to look away first. When he doesn't, Gun finds himself becoming flustered, taking a tiny step back.

"You should get going." He sneaks a glance at Yotha. "Have a good day." Gun turns around and fumbles with getting the key into the lock, nearly dropping it in the process. He laughs nervously when he's unable to slot it in a second time, nearly crying in relief at the third successful attempt.

"Bye!" He all but swings the door shut in Yotha's face, missing the flicker of amusement on the male's face.

- / -

Later on, back in his car, Yotha smiles to himself as he double-checks on the tie through the rearview mirror. As he recalls how focused Gun had been, their faces in close proximity....Yotha supposes that he does feel a strong fondness for the other. Gun wasn't scared to be all up in Yotha's space, meaning that he probably doesn't give much thoufht to whatever he might have heard from others about Yotha.

Yotha has steered clear of anything romance-related for as long as he's known, a result of the divorce between his parents. He's not exactly sure if love is something that he wants to place his trust in, but if it's Gun.......he wants to think that there's no harm trying.

We'll see.

Chapter Text

"Well, I suppose the idea does sound feasible. We want to keep this as low-profile as possible, and it'll drive up the profit of all the areas that we own.''

Yotha tunes out the conversation between Faifa and their dad, distracted as soon as he catches sight of Gun entering the premises. He's all smiles as he greets the staffs on duty with his cheery demeanour. Yotha's used to seeing Gun in light makeup and in his flashy stage outfits, but this time, he's simply dressed in a pair of jeans and a simple white t-shirt slightly cropped at the waist. Yotha likes how his non-styled bangs keeps falling over his forehead, long enough to cover his eyebrows.

"Yotha, what do you think?''

Yotha observes while Gun animatedly starts talking with some of the others, the loose jacket he has on drooping over one shoulder. As irrational as it sounds, Yotha's annoyed that Gun's wearing the jacket Faifa had passed to him the other night when the incident had taken place. He acknowledges that they're basically close friends, especially since Faifa had someone that he was already fond of, but he still doesn't like it. 

"Yotha."

He snaps out of his thoughts, rudely brought back to reality by Faifa's loud voice. Yotha straightens up in his seat, mustering his best apologetic look towards his dad.

"Are you okay, Yotha?" Their dad asks.

"Don't mind him, dad. He's currently taken a li-"

Yotha grinds the heel of his shoes against Faifa's foot, silencing his brother with a don't-you-fucking-dare look. Their dad looks on, perplexed, but it's nothing that he's not used to.

"Ow, damn it, Yotha!"

- / -

As somewhat complicated as Faifa's relationship might be with Yotha, he's still a sibling that Faifa loves. He wouldn't go as far as to say it was a love-hate relationship. Their mother had basically torn apart the family with the divorce, leaving their dad to pick up the pieces. He had done a damn good job of raising them up, even with the business. Faifa had suffered the brunt of it, resulting in people-pleasing tendencies, but Yotha has encountered his fair share of trauma as well. Growing up in an all-male household surely couldn't have been a walk in the park.

Their trauma aside, Faifa is Yotha's brother and he recognizes the signs of him being down bad for someone. In this situation, it's Gun. Ever since Gun had started his shift for the night, Yotha's been watching him like a hawk from where he's sitting at the bar. And he knows it's Gun because they've had so many people join and leave them, but not once have they had the privilege of owning Yotha's undivided attention.

The thing about Yotha is that he has walls up like a massive fortress. With his temper, it's also no surprise that most people think twice about getting close to him.

The lights dim as the current song that's playing slows down to a stop, the crowd rowdily clapping for Gun's stellar performance. He's a natural up on stage, clear as day that he belongs there. Beneath the colored lights, Gun's skin shimmers from a mix of both perspiration and glitter, and even with his faint eyeliner smudged and hair mussed, Faifa can understand why the customers loves him so. Sure, Gun can put on the sexiest outfit known to men, but it's his sweet innocent-like demeanour that drives them crazy.

Faifa makes a move to offer Gun help coming down from the podium when he sees the other hesitate briefly, a result of the chunky tall shoes that he has on to match the night's theme. But Yotha's out of his seat in an instant, holding a hand out. Faifa smiles to himself when he catches the look of surprise and delight on his best friend's face, Gun willingly placing his hand in Yotha's. It's interesting to see how patient and gentle Yotha is with someone else. He doesn't think himself or Newton has ever been privy to such treatment.

It's even more surprising to see Yotha smile at something Gun's saying, and how quickly he removes his black leather jacket to drape it around Gun's shoulders. Faifa wonders if it's because of the chill of the air-conditioner, or if he's simply being possessive.

Either way, Faifa can confirm that Yotha has it incredibly bad for Gun. And the thing is, they're not even dating yet. Yotha is going to be insufferable if he ever makes it official.

If he ever makes it official, that is.

- / -

Gun is certain something has shifted between Yotha and him. Well, it's not as if Yotha's suddenly friendly or something like that, but there's just something different. It's....nice.

Yotha has been around a lot lately. Before, he'd be out of the club as soon as Gun ends his shift, and he wouldn't see the other around until his next shift. It's different these days - Yotha waits for him and even if he doesn't necessarily engage Gun in conversation, he's around.

He's pleasantly surprised by Yotha's gentlemanly gesture of offering a hand when he notices Gun on the podium, smiling widely at Yotha as he takes the offered help, allowing the other to guide him down the blocky stairs towards the main floor. He's about to make a remark about how cold the air-conditioning feels against his bare skin, but before he can do just that, there's a jacket being wrapped around his shoulders.

Yotha's leather jacket, specifically. While they're about the same height, give or take 1-2 centimeters, Yotha has much broader shoulders compared to Gun. The jacket's wide enough to cover his entire upper body,  the slightly woodsy perfume of Yotha's cologne enveloping Gun.

 He's about to say something when they're interrupted by Arc, the main security personnel of the club. He was a tall and intimidating figure, always doing a damn great job of taking care of the staff.

Gun greets the taller male with a polite wai, then excuses himself to the bar. He likes that the bartender on shift tonight is Arm, simply because the man was just so hilarious and Gun had clicked with him in an instant the moment they were first introduced by Arc. They've been told on more than one occasion that they could pass off as twins.

"The usual please, P'Arm."

Gun lifts himself up onto one of the plush stools, grinning happily at the bartender. The adrenaline of performing is still thrumming through him and it's a feeling that he has come to enjoy.

Arm wipes his hands on a clean towel before reaching for a new glass, "You didn't tell me you got a new guard dog."

"...a dog?" Gun's confused. "I didn't get a dog. My condo has a strict no-pet policy."

Arm rolls his eyes, ignoring Gun's outcry of hey, "I'm talking about Yotha. Since when were the two of you so close?"

"We're not."

Arm places a coaster on the bar before serving Gun his drink, "Do you even realize who's jacket you're wearing?"

"...I was cold? It's normal to offer someone your jacket!"

Arm scoffs, "Please, I could be freezing with my lips and fingers turning blue, and Yotha would let
me die."

"Now you're just being dramatic." Still, Gun tries his best to hide his smile, tugging Yotha's jacket tighter around his shoulders. He reaches for his iced tea, not planning on getting tipsy tonight, maintaining an air of casualness as he asks, "P'...do you know if...Yotha's seeing anyone?"

"Why don't you ask him yourself?"

"As if he's going to answer me." Gun raises the glass up to his lips, sighing in appreciation when the sweet liquid touches his tongue. Arm always makes it just right.

"You'll be surprised." Arm murmurs as he polishes the marbled countertop clean. "Well, I don't think he's seeing anyone at the moment. But I do know he came out of a messy breakup a year or two ago. "

Gun wonders if that's why Yotha's as guarded as he is, his walls robust. Almost impenetrable.

"Just a fair bit of warning - you probably already know whatever Yotha and his brothers do for a living is nothing legal, right? No one's that rich at their age making an honest living." Arm leans against the counter, folding his arms. "I'm not saying that you need to be careful, but there's a reason why their dad chose him to take over the family business."

Before Gun can pry further, Yotha suddenly appears by his side. Arm recoils at his sudden presence, nearly dropping straws bunched together in his fist.

"P'Arm."

"Yotha." Arm greets in return. "A drink?"

"No thanks, P'. I'm driving tonight." Yotha turns his attention to Gun. "Are you ready to go?"

"...yes, but can we grab a bite to eat first? All I had before my shift were those skewered meatballs Sand bought for me."

He expects Yotha to sigh and say no, but is thrilled when the other simply nods his head. Neither one of them notices the way in which Arm shakes his head fondly at them. Gun changes into something more presentable, opting to switch the clunky platforms for his favorite pair of sneakers instead.

They end up at a nearby roadside stall famous for their noodles, Gun going ahead to order for the both of them.

"It's our first time having a meal together, isn't it?" Without waiting for an answer, Gun continues. "It's my favorite place to eat - especially their chicken noodles. You know, just in case you're wondering."

"...you're telling me this because?"

Gun huffs audibly, "Don't you want to know anything about me? You've been sending me home and picking me up, but I don't think you know anything about me."

Yotha seems to deliberate over Gun's response, the corner of his lips quirking up as he leans forward, ''I know for a fact that when you first joined, you spent the first few days following Faifa around like a puppy.''

''I was a newbie! I can't believe you're comparing me to a puppy.''

Yotha cracks a small smile, ''Why not? Puppies are adorable.''

''I-'' At a loss for words, Gun opens his mouth only to close it once more. Flustered, he pulls away to create some distance between them, crossing his arms against his chest. When their noodles arrive, Yotha unwraps a pair of disposable chopsticks and places it on Gun's bowl first before doing the same for himself.

''Do you like working for your dad?''

Gun wouldn't be surprised if Yotha chooses not to answer the question. He reaches for the container of green chili and scoops a generous serving of it into his bowl.

''Newton only cares about the bar. Faifa doesn't like getting his hands dirty, so that leaves only me.''

Gun carefully mixes his noodles together, ''But is it something that you want to do?''

''Sometimes we don't get to pick and choose what we want to do.'' Yotha says wryly.

''Then I guess I'm pretty lucky.'' Gun says after chewing and swallowing his mouthful of noodles. ''I've always liked dancing - but I knew I didn't want to do it in like a super professional setting. That'd stress me out far too much.'' He says as an afterthought. ''I'm glad I joined the club.''

''Newton says you're the best thing that's happened to the club ever since he opened it.''

''Really?'' Gun soaks up at the compliment happy. ''Do you share the same sentiment too, Yotha?'' He can't help but to tease.

''For someone who was whining endlessly in the car just now about being hungry, you're talking an awful lot.''

As both of them continue on with their meal, Gun realizes that Yotha isn't really that bad. He's reserved, sure, and even if Gun might not find out why....he doesn't mind making peace with that fact. But there was something about being with Yotha that made him feel secure, as if he didn't have to worry about a single thing because the other would take care of it.

Like a true gentleman, Yotha pays for the meal and the ride home is spent in comfortable silence. A sleepy-eyed Gun leans his head against the window of the car, the streetlights blurring as he struggles to keep his eyes open. It feels like he has only shut his eyes for a split second before he's being tapped awake.

''Are we already here?'' He asks groggily.

''Mm.'' Yotha reaches an arm across, unclipping Gun's seatbelt. ''I'll walk you up.''

Gun muffles a yawn behind his palm and sleepily nods his head. Yotha has accompanied him home often enough that the security guard no longer asks for him to jot his details them, nodding his head in greeting at the both of them. 

''You don't need that anymore.'' Yotha gestures to the Faifa's jacket that Gun's holding in his hand.

Gun makes a move to shrug off Yotha's leather jacket as well, but the other stops him with a shake of his head. ''Keep it.''

''What?'' Gun is well aware that it's both designer and expensive as hell. 

''Keep it.'' Yotha repeats. ''So that you won't need to borrow anyone else's next time.''

''Wow, Khun Yotha~'' Gun pipes teasingly, all traces of sleepiness evaporating. ''You're just so generous, aren't you?'' He extends a hand out and gently pats Yotha on the head, feeling extra bold tonight for no particular reason.

''Only towards the people that I like.''

- / -

Chapter Text

Yotha isn't around for the next couple of days.

He tries asking Faifa, attempting to mask it as a casual question. Faifa tells him there's nothing to worry about because Yotha has a habit of disappearing for a week or two, especially if he has business-related things to attend to. He could've told me, Gun thinks sulkily as he goes through his usual routine of removing his makeup once he's home. Sure, he doesn't have Yotha's number and no, he doesn't want to ask Faifa (yet). Maybe he's a bit upset because he thought that they had gotten closer the past month and a half or so.

Apparently not.

''Why do I even care?'' Gun says aloud to himself, annoyed that he was even upset in the first place.

Huffing, he squeezes more of the makeup remover liquid onto a clean cotton pad and starts rubbing it across his eyelids to get the eyeliner off. ''Stupid Yotha.'' Gun grumbles under his breath.

The gentle chime of the doorbell reverberates around Gun's apartment, his mood picking up since he's greatly anticipating the food that he had ordered for himself. He had just gotten paid for the month and Gun might have splurged more than necessarily to cheer himself up. Uncaring that half of his face was bare and the other half still had traces of tonight's make up, Gun hurries to answer the front door - it's not the delivery rider with his fried chicken and noodles, but it's Yotha.

Yotha with a bloodied lip, along with what seems like a gash across his left eyebrow.

Alarmed, Gun immediately forgets the annoyance he was harboring towards the other, face scrunching up in concern at the state of his friend. ''Shit, what happened to you?'' He pulls Yotha into his apartment, apologizing hastily when Yotha winces, realizing that the male's knuckles were bloodied too.

''Sit down. I'll go get the first aid kit.''

Thing is - Gun isn't even certain that he has one since he moved in nine months ago.

He does end up finding the first aid box left by the previous tenant and sits himself down in front of Yotha, deciding to tend to his lips first.

''Did you get into a fight?'' The unspoken 'again' lingers in the air. Using a clean strip of gauze, Gun ever-so-gently applies pressure to the wound, ignoring Yotha's audible hiss.

''It's nothing.''

Gun reigns in his irritation at being brushed off, then tries again, ''Where did you disappear to? You've been gone for a week.''

''I didn't know I had to report my whereabouts to you. Besides, it's none your business.'' It's said in a tone that Yotha often uses with others - cold and dismissive, or brash even.

It feels like a verbal slap to Gun's face. He stands up from the sofa, hands balling into fists by his side in an attempt to restrain his own anger, ''Then why did you come here?'' He blurts out, catching himself by surprise by how aggressive he sounds.

Gun moves to the other chair instead, showing his back to a surprised Yotha. This asshole, and sure, maybe Gun isn't at the age to be throwing a mini-tantrum, but he'd like to think that he's in the right to feel this way.

''Gun.''

He continues staring ahead, refusing to be swayed by the slight crack of Yotha's voice. 

''I was asking because I was concerned. Is it so wrong of me to do that? Maybe it's normal for you to just disappear for a week, but I care about my friends.''

He can sense the hesitation in Yotha's step, briefly glancing up to see the male's guilt-ridden expression.

''You're...right. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that to you.'' Seeing Yotha apologize to him in such a tone was something he thought he'd never experience in this lifetime. Still, Gun wasn't going to let him off that easily.

''Fine.'' He uncrosses his arms and stands up, refusing to look Yotha in the eye. ''But a simple apology isn't going to make up for you disappearing without a week. I'm still upset. I'm tired. I want to sleep.'' And Gun starts herding Yotha towards the front door, knowing that if he made eye contact with the male, his resolve would shatter. 

''Gun-''

''I don't want us to have a conversation when we're both not in the right emotional state.'' It was something that he had learned from both his parents. ''I'm going to sleep it off. You should too.''

''Gun.'' Yotha gently takes hold of his wrist, brows furrowing and looking as if he wants to refuse.

''Yotha.'' Gun has to stand his ground, because he wants Yotha to realize that he doesn't get to speak to Gun like that. ''Please.''

Yotha looks like it's physically causing him pain to relent, but he nods his head anyway. As much as it makes Gun guilty to do such a thing, he also doesn't think that Yotha should be let off that easily.

His initial hunger dissipates even with the arrival of the food, so Gun ends up storing the food inside his fridge instead. That night, sleep doesn't come easily and it's not because of his fear of the usual night, but more so because Gun's plagued by thoughts of Yotha. Was I too harsh on him, he finds himself fretting, but when he thinks about how he had been treated to radio silence for the entire week, Gun feels justified in his decision.

The next morning, feeling as if he hadn't slept a wink, Gun drops Faifa a call to ask the other if he'd be alright with Gun taking a rest day.

''Sure, I can get one of the newbies to take your shift. Rough night?'' Faifa asks sympathetically.

Gun wanders into the kitchen and flips the electric kettle on, tiredly resting against the counter, ''Somewhat.''

''Yotha's back, by the way. Was barely at home for a minute and the moment I told him you were asking about him, he took off just like that. Didn't even care that he looked all banged up - apparently Newton said he got into some trouble with some customers outside the club.''

''Well.'' Gun feigns disinterest. ''He shouldn't have left without saying anything then.''

''Aw, the puppy's mad his owner left him all lonely for a week, huh?''

''Ugh, I hate you. I'm hanging up now.'' Gun jabs at the 'End Call' button.

He checks through his messages, most of which were from Kong and Franc engaging in stupid banter in their group chat. No longer in the mood to heat up the food in the fridge, Gun makes up his mind to get some congee and soya milk from one of the street carts near his condo. But he regrets it the moment he steps out of the elevator, the hot air from outside slipping in each time the main doors slide open.

''Morning, P'.'' He greets the guard at the security counter.

''Oh, good morning, nong. Your friend's been waiting for a long time.''

''My friend?''

''Yes, the one you're always with. The scary-looking one. His car was parked outside the whole night.''

Gun glances outside where true enough, Yotha's BMW Z4 was parked outside. He returns to where the car is parked ten minutes later, with breakfast in one hand and using his free hand to gently knock on the tinted windows. Just like Gun, it's clear that Yotha hasn't slept much either.

''I bought breakfast. Come up and eat with me. You can freshen up too.''

It's almost endearing how quickly Yotha gets out of the car.

Back in the apartment, Gun sets out a new toothbrush and a towel for the other to use. Clothes-wise, it's a bit of a struggle seeing that they're not of the same frame, but he manages to find some of Kong's old clothes when the male had once been his roommate - a pair of sweats that would end up a big too long and a grey t-shirt.

''Here you go. Bathroom's that way. The shower handle is a bit wonky, so it'll take a while for you to get hot water.

While Yotha showers, Gun gets round to transferring the congee and the milk into separate bowls and cups, bringing it to the small round table in the corner. While the space that Gun's renting might not be spacious, he's worked hard to make it seem homely with pictures of his parents and decorations that he's gradually added throughout the course of him staying here. He hears the click of the bathroom door opening, Yotha emerging with the towel slung around his neck.

Seeing Yotha in casual clothes was somewhat weird, especially since Gun's always so used to seeing his friend so put together. Like this, with his hair down, Yotha seems so much more approachable. He joins Gun at the table, the silence stretching on as they look at each other.

''Gun-''

''Yotha-''

Gun finds himself softening, ''I'll go first. Why didn't you go home,  Yotha?''

''Are you still mad at me?''

Gun relents, knowing that he wouldn't have it in him to remain upset with Yotha for long. ''Maybe a tiny bit.'' He emphasizes the tiny space between his thumb and forefinger.

Yotha looks at him, looking all too serious, ''I'm...sorry.'' He pauses, deliberating over his next few words carefully. ''For disappearing without a word, and for talking so harshly to you yesterday.''

Gun sighs quietly, folding his arms against the edge of the table, ''Are we friends, Yotha? Because if we are, there's certain things that are a given - like...telling your friend where you're going. Or if you can't, dropping a text saying you're going to be away for a couple of days maybe. Something like that.''

''I don't have much friends.''

''You didn't answer my question.'' He pins Yotha with a piercing stare. ''Are we friends?''

''Maybe you're my only friend.''

That's probably the best answer he can get out of Yotha (for now). ''Fine, I'll let you off easy this time round. But the next time you pull something like that....'' Gun trails off warningly. He picks up his spoon, gesturing for Yotha to do the same. ''Eat - this is the best congee around this area.''

''You asked me that night - whether I enjoy doing what I do for a living.''

Gun nods, not trusting himself to speak with a mouthful of congee.

''Growing up, it was Newton and dad who raised me. From when I was a kid, I always saw them solving their problems with their fists. Dad, especially - when you're in this line of work, you have a lot of enemies.''

''Yotha, look, you don't have to share if you're not ready to.''

''It's fine. If it's you, then...maybe I don't mind talking about it.'' Yotha moves his spoon around the bowl distractedly, the memories he was bringing up clearly unpleasant. ''Mom left when I was just a kid, and she took Faifa with her. If anything, I think he suffered the worst out of all of us. The three of us  have different coping mechanisms, and it's clear that mine's definitely the worst one.''

Gun's at a complete loss as to how he should comfort his friend, settling for a meek, ''I'm sorry you had to go through all that.''

''It's not an excuse, but-'' Yotha levels his gaze with Gun's. ''-I never really learned how to deal with...these negative emotions. For me, avoiding people is so much easier. I don't have to explain myself.''

''Yotha, what would you have done if you hadn't met me, huh? Isn't life more bearable with friends around?'' Gun teases in an attempt to lighten up the atmosphere.

''No one really stuck around long enough.'' Yotha shrugs a shoulder. ''Until you.''

''Well, you know what they say about dogs being loyal.''

''So...you're admitting you're similar to a dog then?'' Yotha counters, a hint of a smile on his lips.

''Why not? They're man's best friend afterall.''

They lapse into comfortable silence for a bit before Yotha breaks it, ''I wanted to see you. When Faifa told me you asked about me.''

Damn Faifa and his loud mouth.

'''Don't flatter yourself. I only asked once.'' Gun mutters, missing the look of utter fondness that flits over Yotha's face. 

''Really? The way Faifa phrased it made it seem more than once.''

Gun kicks Yotha's foot under the table, ''Just eat your food, Yotha.''

- / -

''Shit.'' Gun swears loudly the moment the electricity goes out; the lights go off and the ceiling fan stops whirring. ''Not again. This like the fourth time this month.''

''Fourth?''

''Uh huh. Rent's mad cheap because it's a pretty old building, but it also explains why the power keeps going off.'' His phone starts chiming with incoming notifications - most likely the condo residents flooding the group chat to check if everyone else was facing the same problem with their power.

It was still early, so Gun wasn't particularly bothered yet.

''Maybe I should ask Faifa if I can bunk in his office tonight if the power doesn't go up.''

''You can come stay with me tonight.''

''You mean your room at the club?''

Yotha shakes his head, ''No. You can come stay over at our house.''

Gun's starting to think that he might have a problem with his ears, because no way is Yotha inviting him over.

''I...'' He peers at Yotha, clearly concerned. ''Are you running a fever?''

The other male scowls when Gun reaches over to place his palm against Yotha's forehead. ''Huh, no fever. Could be the lack of sleep.''

''Yes or no, Gun?''

''...are you sure that I can?''

''Would I have offered if I didn't want you to?'' Gun yelps when Yotha flicks him on the forehead suddenly. 

''Yotha, you jerk-'' He rubs at the spot on his forehead, though he has to admit he's secretly pleased by Yotha's offer. ''Well, the power might come up...but might get cut off again during the night. To be safe, maybe I'll stay over.'' He's aiming for nonchalant, but knows Yotha isn't buying it. ''I'll start packing!''

- / -

Chapter Text

Yotha is truly affluent on a whole unmatched level. Gun thinks that it shouldn't come as a surprise, but he's still awed the moment he sets his sight on the family's three-storey house.

''This isn't a house. It's a freaking museum.''

Without being asked to, Yotha retrieves Gun's duffel bag from the backseat of the car and shoulders it, ''You're exaggerating.''

Gun doesn't know what to look at first. He toes off his sneakers and carefully places them on the shoe rack outside, trailing after Yotha uncertainly as they step past the front door. What the hell, just the living room itself is bigger than his whole ass apartment.

''Just how many cars do you actually have?''

''A few.''

''It sure as hell doesn't look like a few.''

Yotha leads the way upstairs to the second floor, gesturing to the door on the left. ''That's Faifa's room. Mine's on the right.'' Gun peers into the room curiously over Yotha's shoulder, chuckling when he takes in the male's choice of decor.

''Why does it feel like this is a place where you're going to be put into eternal rest?''

As expected, everything was just so dark; blackout curtains, black silk sheets, black, black and more...black. He waits for Yotha to switch on the lights before entering, nosily taking in everything in hopes that it'll tell him a little bit more about Yotha. There were no photos whatsoever, the desk and walls void of any photo frames.

''Er, so...'' Gun pipes up uncertainly. ''Where's the guest room that I'm staying in?''

Yotha sets Gun's duffel bag on the floor right next to the bed. ''...why would you be in the guestroom?''

Gun frowns, ''Because...I'm a...guest?'' He didn't think Yotha considers him close enough a friend to want to share his personal space with Gun.

''You can just use this room. The bed's big enough for the two of us. Besides, the housekeeper isn't in this week, so the guest bedroom's not made up.''

Gun had assumed that Yotha didn't want his private space to be intruded on and that he wouldn't be open to the idea of someone sharing the space with him. Still, Gun's not going to complain, counting himself lucky that he wasn't back at his own apartment where the power could get cut off suddenly.

''Thanks again, Yotha. You're really my lifesaver.'' Gun chirps happily, comfortably plopping himself down onto the edge of the mattress.

Yotha jerks a thumb towards the en-suite bathroom, ''You can wash up first. I've got a work call that I need to take.''

Gun takes his time in the en-suite bathroom, very much enjoying the tub that comes with it. It's so much fancier than his shower with the wonky knob and the weak water pressure, that's for sure. He changes into a pair of sweatpants and a flimsy sleep shirt once done, wandering back out into the bedroom where Yotha's frowning deeply at his laptop. He glances up when Gun comes closer, ''That took you long enough. I thought you drowned in the tub or something.''

''Ass.'' Gun bites at him, jokingly raising his fist at Yotha. 

Yotha stands up and reaches for the towel hanging at the back of his chair, ''You should dry your hair properly. You look like a wet dog right now.''

''Yotha, you-'' Gun bites back a particularly colorful swear word, self-consciously bringing his hands up to his damp hair.

Gun's no stranger to sharing a bed with friends. He had done it countless of times back in university, but Yotha is...Yotha. The male climbs into the left side of the bed and Gun slips in next to him, sighing happily at how luxurious the sheets feel against his skin. 

''Wow, this is nice.'' 

Yotha switches over to his side, his expression slightly amused. ''It doesn't take much to make you happy, huh?''

''For sure. It's easy to entice me with food, drinks and good companionship.''

''Just like a dog.'' Yotha points out matter-of-factly. ''Beagle.''

Gun's too comfortable to pick a fight with Yotha over being called 'beagle', rolling over onto his side as well so that he's facing Yotha. They lapse into companionable silence until Gun decides to break it first, ''Aren't you going to ask why I'm afraid of the dark?''

''Unlike some people, I'm not nosy.''

''Yotha.'' Gun smacks him on the arm. 

''How bad was it?'' Yotha asks a while later.

Gun shifts and places a hand under his head, ''I got accidentally locked in the storage shed when I was a kid. Some people might think it's silly, but I just never got over it. I only remember it being so damn dark and I screamed myself hoarse, but no one came to help me. I was playing hide and seek with my older sister, but the gardener who came by once a week accidentally locked me in. P'Kloy thought I was just really good at hiding until she panicked and realized that I wasn't anywhere inside the house.'' Just recalling it was enough for Gun to tremble as he thinks of the darkness that had enveloped him during those few hours he had been trapped inside. ''After that day, I've not been able to sleep with the lights switched off.''

''It must have been terrifying.''

''Very. I've tried a lot of ways to get over it, but I still end up experiencing the same nightmares. So...'' Gun gives Yotha an apologetic grimace. ''...I'm sorry if I accidentally wake you up later.''

He's not sure how to react when Yotha uncertainly extends a hand out, the tip of his fingers brushing the hair away from Gun's forehead. Almost soft. Comforting. ''I'll watch over you.''

''That actually sounds kind of comforting.'' Gun finds himself smiling, inching just the slightest bit closer towards Yotha. ''Don't have nightmares, Yotha.''

It's become a norm for Gun to wake up gasping for air and wholly terrified whenever he relives the same nightmare in his sleep. He's brought back to consciousness with the need to gasp for air, perspiration dotting his forehead and his entire body trembling. Gun wills himself to relax, going through the routine of reminding himself that it's nothing but a nightmare. He's safe - the lights are switched on and nothing can get to him. Suddenly, there's an arm being slipped under his neck and Yotha's concerned face swims into view.

''It's okay, Gun.'' Yotha rubs his arm comfortingly, cradling Gun close. ''I'm here. It was just a nightmare.''

Gun doesn't even realize that his cheeks are wet until Yotha's brushing his tears away with the pad of his thumbs, looking so concerned that it actually brings a laugh out of Gun.

''Why are you laughing?''

''I don't know. You're just so...I didn't think you could be so gentle.''

He willingly follows as Yotha tucks Gun's head under his chin, their bodies pressed so close together that it should make Gun feel awkward. But all he feels is a sense of peace and comfort blanketing him, as if nothing could impetrate the hold Yotha has around him.

I'm safe.

- / -

Yotha's arm is sore and aching, but Gun looks so peaceful that he simply can't bear to move. Sharing a bed with Gun hadn't been too bad afterall. He hadn't exactly realized the severity of Gun's nightmares, but seeing the other crying and trembling in his sleep had really softened something in Yotha. Filled him with the need to protect, even if he knows that Gun's capable of fighting his own battles.

''Yotha, por's asking if you want to come along with us for breakfast-''

Faifa stops dead in his tracks when he realizes that Yotha's not alone in bed. Yotha immediately brings a finger to his lips, shushing Faifa so that his brother's boisterous voice wouldn't wake up the other.

''Oh.My.God.'' Surprise is replaced by immense gleefulness. ''Am I actually seeing things? You never let anyone in your room, let alone your bed.''

''Will you please keep your voice down?'' Yotha hisses through his teeth, glancing at Gun to make sure that the other was still asleep.

''No, this is just too good.'' Faifa clasps his hands together, clearly delighted by what he's seeing. ''Even your ex didn't step foot into your room before.''

''Fai.'' Yotha narrows his eyes at his brother, reaching for a spare pillow with his free hand. ''Get the hell out of my room.''

''Of course. You know what, I'm going to tell por that you've got a friend over and all of us can eat breakfast together downstairs later.'' The pillow Yotha hurls at him misses Faifa narrowly, the other male cackling jovially at the failed attempt. ''I should really buy the lottery ticket today.''

Faifa was never going to let him live this down.

- / -

Chapter Text

Gun pauses at the top of stairs, tugging at the hem of Yotha's shirt on impulse, ''Are you sure it's really okay for me to join you guys for breakfast?''

He's seen Yotha's dad at the club on a few occasions, but it wasn't as if they've actually had a conversation before.

''He's not going to like, I don't know, shoot me or something?'' It's a weak attempt at a joke.

''He might if you talk too much.'' Seeing Gun's stressed expression, Yotha's demeanour visibly changes. ''It's not my por you need to worry about. It's Faifa.'' Gently, Yotha peels Gun's fingers away from the hem of his shirt, surprising the other by taking Gun by the hand instead to lead him down the stairs.

Gun has no choice but to follow, his steps slowing down slightly when the dining room comes into view, both Faifa and their dad seated around the eight-seater table already. Faifa's smile is far too wide and mischevious, the male wagging his eyebrows knowingly at Gun when Yotha pulls out an empty chair for him.

''Hello, uncle.'' Gun lowers his head and brings his palms together before he takes a seat.

He had expected Yotha's dad to come off as intimidating and unfriendly, but is pleasantly surprised by the laidback and warm demeanour that he's greeted with. ''Ah, you're Yotha's friend from the club, right? Gun? I was telling Faifa that it's quite a unique name.''

Faifa leans forward, his eyes alight with amusement, ''Tell him what it means, Gun.''

''Oh?'' Yotha's dad leans forward, visibly interested by his son's remark. ''I'm sure it has good meaning, right?''

Gun laughs as he rubs at his nape, feeling somewhat sheepish before he holds up two fingers, ''...it means 'two ears'.'' Silence reigns around the table before Gun catches sight of Yotha glaring daggers at his brother, Faifa breaking the silence with his boisterous laughter.

''That's really unique. I like it.'' The older male then gestures to the spread on the table. ''Help yourself to the food, Gun. I think we might have ordered more than usual. It's the first time Yotha has brought a friend home.''

Before Gun can reach for an empty cup, Yotha's already sliding a full cup of soya milk towards him, having poured it earlier. Gun wordlessly thanks him with an appreciative smile, gradually relaxing by the second. 

''Here.'' Yotha dishes a little bit of everything onto an empty plate and passes it to Gun before he does the same for himself. ''Careful, it's hot. Don't burn your tongue.''

Gun doesn't notice the look of surprise that Yotha's dad exchanges with Faifa, eager to tuck into the food since he hadn't eaten much the night before. 

''So, Gun, do you enjoy working at the club so far?''

''I do. I was a part-time dancer at Atmos before I joined P'Newton's club.  It was...'' Just thinking about it has Gun suppressing a shudder. ''Let's just say it was the worst two months of my life.'' Late paychecks, sleazy-as-hell customers, no proper security in place and just an overly toxic environment altogether.

''Atmos has quite the notorious reputation.'' Faifa echoes his agreement with a grimace. ''The fact that you lasted two months is impressive actually.''

''What can I say? I'm not just a pretty face. I'm made of pretty sturdy stuff.''

''Sureeeee.'' Faifa drawls, pointing his fork in Gun's direction. ''Says the person who acts like he can't get anything done whenever Yotha's around. Please, I've seen you help P'Arm carry a carton of bottles inside the store room before. But the moment Yotha's around, you're all spaghetti limbs.''

''You-!'' Gun gives Faifa's foot a hard kick under the table, widening his eyes at Faifa. ''Why should I do all the heavy lifting when Yotha has all those muscles he can put to good use?''

Yotha's dad laughs heartily at Gun's comeback, nodding his approval, ''I like how you think, Gun. I always tell my sons that the pretty ones should never do the heavy lifting. Don't you agree, Yotha?''

''Of course.'' Yotha answers without missing a beat, darting a brief glance towards Gun. ''All Gun has to do is sit there and look pretty. I'll do all the heavy lifting.''

Gun wants to blame the spicy noodles that he's eating as the culprit why he feels intensely warm all of a sudden. It's definitely not because Yotha has just sort-of-indirectly called him 'pretty'. Yotha had been right. It wasn't their dad that he should have been worried about. It was Faifa and his stinkin' big mouth. Still, he's glad that Yotha's dad seems to be receptive of his presence, making Gun feel comfortable enough to crack a joke or two. Everything seems to be going well until the housekeeper apologetically comes up to them, alerting the older male to a visitor. 

The air is suddenly filled with a thick tension when a woman hesitantly steps past the sliding doors, her features pinched into that of discomfort when she realizes that she's not exactly welcomed. Yotha's chair scrapes noisily against the marble floor.

''Yotha.'' Faifa says quietly, shaking his head firmly.

Gun doesn't have to put two and two together to come to the conclusion that the woman was their mother. He's struck by a surge of awkwardness, wondering if it'd be rude if he decides to slip away so that the family can deal with whatever this is. He sneaks a look at Yotha, noticing the male's balled-up fists as he takes his seat once more.

''What are you doing here?''

''I thought I'd drop by to see Faifa and Yotha for a bit. I just want to talk to them before my flight tomorrow.''

''...you're flying back tomorrow? I thought we had plans to eat dinner together.''

Something about her apologetic smile tells Gun that this isn't the first time she's pulled something like this. ''I know, and I'm so sorry, but something cropped up-''

Yotha scoffs, interrupting her midsentence. ''That's always been the case with you. You pull the same shit over and over with Faifa. Do you even care that he drops everything just so he can spend time with you?'' 

''Yotha, it's fine-''

''It's not fine, Ai'Fah.'' Yotha barks out heatedly, standing up so quickly that he almost knocks the chair backwards. ''She takes you for granted and she knows that. Just because Faifa's nice and accommodating doesn't mean you can treat him like this.''

''No, that's not it, Yotha. I really want to spend time with the both of you.''

''Spare me the bullshit, mae.'' Gun wishes he could just hold or comfort Yotha in some way when he hears the crack in the male's voice. ''How many times have you disappointed Faifa by cancelling on him? Wasn't it bad enough that you left us last time?'' The question lingers heavily in the air, oppressive and uncomfortable. ''You should have stayed out of our lives for good.''

''That's enough, Yotha.'' Faifa bites out tersely. ''Stop it.''

Yotha storms off outside without another word and Gun looks over helplessly at Faifa.

''Go. Check up on him.'' Faifa urges gently. 

Gun excuses himself and slips out past the sliding doors, finding Yotha sitting on the steps. With hesitant steps, he closes the distance between them, ''...can I sit or would you prefer that I leave you alone?'' He braces himself to get yelled at, or worse still, be given the silent treatment.

Instead, Yotha looks up at him, looking so lost that it makes Gun wish he can take the pain away.

''Stay.''

Gun settles down next to Yotha, bringing his knees up against his chest, wondering if there was something he could say that could alleviate whatever it is that Yotha's feeling.

''Did Faifa tell you about our parents?''

''Bits and pieces.'' He's sure Faifa had left a chunk of the actual story out. ''I know they've been divorced since you two were young.''

Yotha nods, ''And she took Faifa away with her. But her reasoning for doing so was so fucking stupid. If anything, it made Faifa feel even worse about himself. I could care less about the trauma she's caused por, Newton and I by leaving, but to take Faifa away only to hurt him...''

''...do you hate her, Yotha?''

''Dad was never the same after she left him. She promised him she could accept him for who he was - everything, the business...'' Yotha's voice cracks at the end, as if trying to reign in the anger. ''She knew what she'd be getting into once they got married. But she still left him anyway. Worst thing is - she got remarried and it was to one of por's business rivals.''

Gun simply couldn't imagine what the brothers might have gone through, left behind to pick up the pieces left behind. He lightly places his hand against the centre of Yotha's back, rubbing it sympathetically. ''I'm sorry.''

''Why are you saying sorry?''

''Because-'' Gun feels his own throat closing up from the sudden swell of emotions. ''-I can't imagine what it must have been like for you and your brothers.'' He thinks of a much younger Yotha - so full of resentment, and to grow up feeling like he'd been abandoned and undeserving of a mother's love. Gun's cheek feels wet all of a sudden, and he hastily wipes it with the back of his palm.

Yotha seems stunned by Gun shedding a tear, as if he couldn't come to terms with the fact that someone else was hurting for him.

''Silly boy.'' Yotha murmurs. 

''Shut up.'' Gun sniffles, using the neckline of his shirt to dab it against the corner of his eyes. 

''No one has really cried for me before. Then again-'' Yotha looks on affectionately at Gun. ''-I've never really let anyone stay for long enough in my life.''

Gun playfully bumps his knee against Yotha's, pitching his the tone of his voice to something more light-hearted, ''Does this mean we're best friends now?''

''...I'll think about it.''

''What's there to think about?''

''A lot.'' Yotha nudges Gun's knee in return, following it up by resting his arm around Gun's shoulders, the gesture feeling somehow...intimate coming from Yotha.

''Hmph. My friends back in university used to call me 'sunshine', just so you know.''

''You sure you didn't confuse it with nosy, or somewhere along those lines?''

''Wow. I guess you don't need me to stay to cheer you up since you're back to being an ass-'' Gun stands up, but he's immediately yanked back down when Yotha lightly pulls him by the wrist, nearly causing him to stumble into the male's lap.

''Your friends might have been onto something. I do feel better now.'' 

Gun makes a huffing sound, but turns his head the other side so that Yotha wouldn't spot the pleased smile that he's sporting. They're both interrupted by the sound of crunching leaves, finding Faifa making their way towards them.

''I'll head up first-''

''It's okay.'' Yotha squeezes Gun's wrist. ''Stay.''

Faifa comes to a stop before them with a heavy sigh, ''Yotha, you shouldn't have said those things to mae.''

''No, she needs to know how much she has hurt us, you, especially. When will you realize that accommodating her will get you nowhere?'' Yotha insists stubbornly. 

''She just wants to reconnect with you, and if you'd just give her a chance...''

''No.'' Yotha says through gritted teeth, getting up on his feet so that he's face to face with Faifa now. ''She left por when he needed her most. And when she got remarried, it was to one of his business rivals. She betrayed him.'' He jabs the tip of his finger against Faifa's shoulder. ''If you don't feel pity for yourself, at least have some pity for por.''

''This resentment you feel towards her isn't going to help you in any way, Yotha. It's why you can never hold down a relationship-'' Gun can see that Faifa regrets those words the moment it leaves his lips. ''Shit, Yotha, I didn't-''

''You're right.'' It's chilling how Yotha says it, as if he's suddenly devoid of any emotion. 

''Yotha-'' Faifa grunts out in frustration, towards himself more than anyone else when the dark-haired male stalks off without another word.

Gun gets up to his feet and offers Faifa a small smile that he hopes comes off as reassuring, ''I'll talk to him, Faifa.'' He peers at his friend, his concern doubling. ''Are you alright?''

''Maybe Yotha's right.'' With a disgruntled sigh, Faifa rakes his fingers through his hair. ''Sometimes it feels like Yotha and I are about to go back to how we were before, but each time she turns up...we just end up at square one all over again.''

''You've got your reasons. Yotha has his.''

''I know. But just so you know, I'm glad Yotha seems to have opened up to you. Back then, he didn't even tell his partner half the things he's shared with you. He's always been guarded, because of what happened to our parents. Damn it, I really shouldn't have said that to him.''

''He probably knows you didn't mean it.'' Gun wraps his arms around Faifa, briefly comforting him with a hug. ''Don't dwell on it - I'll talk to him.''

''Thanks, Gun.'' Faifa flashes him an appreciative smile. ''If there's anyone who can probably comfort Yotha, it's you.''

-  / -

Chapter Text

Yotha should have known that Faifa wasn't the sort to let things go unresolved. He finds his brother still awake and waiting for him later that night after Yotha returns home from running a work errand. One look at Faifa's unusually tight expression tells Yotha that the slightly younger male wasn't going to let this go. With a resigned sigh, Yotha sits down across the other at the dining table. There's no denying that their parents' divorce had complicated their relationship as siblings, but Faifa likes to tell him that they've made a lot of progress over the years.

''Yotha, about what I said this morning, I really shouldn't have said that.''

The regret in Faifa's apology is enough for Yotha.

''You weren't exactly wrong.'' Admitting it doesn't come easy for Yotha, but Faifa was right - he's not been able to hold down the past two relationships that he's had, and it was partly because Yotha still has these issues that he's trying to work through.

Their mother leaving them had filled him with a whole lot of resentment and trust issues growing up, particularly after he found out that she had gotten remarried and had other kids of her own. How could he trust himself to love when his own parents had looked so madly in love, but had ended up splitting up? Do you abandon the ones that you claim to love?

''You had some good points of your own.'' Faifa admits defeatedly. ''The reason why she treats me like this is because I keep telling her it's okay, that I understand she's got a family of her own...even if it hurts me that I'm never her first choice.''

Comforting someone isn't something Yotha would consider his forte. He's got his own coping mechanisms when it comes to handling his own negative emotions, but for Faifa, he's the sort to swallow it all down on the inside while portraying a bright smile on the outside. 

''Isn't it enough that we've got por? We don't need her in our lives, Faifa.''

''...I'm not you, Yotha. I can't just...ignore her.'' The male leans back against his chair, looking vexed. ''Never mind, let's not talk about her for now. Can I ask you something else?''

''If it's my car that you want to borrow, it's a no.''

''Well, that's not what I wanted to ask, but thanks for being so generous. Ever since you got that car, I don't think P'New and I have ever had the chance to sit in it. How come Gun gets the special treatment of being driven to and fro in your precious baby?''

Yotha stares at his brother as if he's asked the stupidest question ever known to mankind, ''Because he's Gun.''

''...and that brings me to the question that I want to ask.'' Faifa's playful demeanour switches to that of something more serious. ''What's going on between you and Gun?''

Yotha fiddles with his car keys, mulling over the question briefly. ''Why do you want to know?'' While it's understandable that Faifa might be curious about the nature of their friendship, considering that he considers himself one of Gun's closest friends, Yotha has always kept a lot of things personal to himself. 

''Because I'm getting a sense that Gun's becoming very important to you.'' Before Yotha can rebutt, Faifa immediately cuts in to continue his sentence, ''You can deny it all you want, Yotha. Think about it; you were with your ex-partner for almost a year, but not once has he stepped foot into our house. Don't even get me started about how protective you are of Gun too. There's a whole list of other things I've noticed, but we'd be here the whole night.''

Damn Faifa for being so ridiculously observant.

''Are you just messing around with him, Yotha? Like what you did with the rest - lead them on, give them some hope and then ghost them?''

''No!'' Yotha frowns at the other, affronted that his brother would even come to that conclusion.

''Then?'' Faifa prompts him, clearly not giving up until he gets a precise answer from Yotha. ''If you're not planning on bringing...whatever it is that you feel for him any further, I suggest that you put a stop to it before Gun starts feeling something more for you. But if you do decide that something is going to come out of it, you realize that you're going to have to tell him what our family does for a living, right?''

''I'm sure he's heard for himself.''

''Yes, but not everything. He knows that P'New owns the club, but what about the part of the business that you've taken over from por? I could tell him, but I think he'd rather hear it from your own mouth.''

''What if he decides that he doesn't want anything else to do with me once he finds out?''

It's Yotha's one insecurity peeking through the cracks in the walls that he have built up for himself; the fear that someone he loves wouldn't be able to accept him for who he is.

Faifa heaves a loud sigh, ''Then you might as well give up on finding love. I don't think you'll find anyone else like Gun-''

Yotha wordlessly pins his brother with a sharp glare, jaw tensing up to signal that he doesn't find Faifa's response particularly funny.

''....and there I go putting my mouth in my foot again. I'm sorry. It was a joke - an unfunny one.'' Faifa raises both his hands up in a ''I surrender'' gesture. ''For once, just answer me, Yotha. It'll stay between us - do you like him?''

It's a definite yes, because Yotha doesn't have to think  much to get to the 'yes'. He thinks of Gun's sunny disposition and how he brings so much joy and color into Yotha's life. As sweet as Gun is, he's a little spitfire too - not afraid at call Yotha out when he's being particularly difficult or an A-grade asshole. Yotha thinks of the care and patience that the other male has so graciously extended to him, and how it makes Yotha feel like maybe, he might be ready to face his fears and allow himself to fall in love. For the first time in a long while, the thought of embracing a newfound love doesn't make Yotha want to run in the other direction. This time, he's ready to run towards it.

''Yes. I like him.''

''There we go.'' Faifa smiles at him, proud of Yotha's firm response. ''That wasn't so hard, was it?''

- / -

''Congratulations on your one year at Bang On, Gun!''

Gun should have expected that Faifa would make a huge deal of his one-year work-anniversary, announcing that all the drinks for employees on shift tonight were on the house. Of course, everyone starts hooting and thanking Gun for the generosity, congratulating him for having stuck around for a whole solid year. There's about an hour and a half before Bang On is scheduled to open for the night, so there's still time for the employees to mingle around with their drinks and take it easy for a bit.

''Congratulations, Gun!'' Arm pops up behind Gun with a smile that would resemble that of a proud dad, ruffling the dancer's hair affectionately. ''I can't believe it's been a year you joined. Have I said how much I love working with you?'' He wraps both his arms around the younger male, smushing their cheek together. ''Please stay for a long time so that we can always make life a living hell for Faifa.''

''You two do realize that I'm the co-owner of this club, which makes me the boss of Bang On too, right?''

Both Arm and Gun stick their tongues out at Faifa, going blearghhhh at him playfully.

''It was bad enough when it was just P'Arm, now he's got a little he-devil by his side too.'' Faifa grumbles under his breath. 

Arm sticks around for a bit before he excuses himself to start preparing for his shift, Arc actually having to playfully tug him away by the collar of his shirt because once Arm and Gun starts talking (or gossiping), they can go on for hours. Gun flits over to where Kong, Franc and Book are seated around the table, the three of them splitting a bottle of white wine amongst themselves.

''I still can't believe it's been a whole year. Remember the first time we met and you tripped on the stage steps?''

Kong slaps at his own thigh once his memory is jogged, ''Oh god, he was so embarassed he just laid there on the steps and I had to go help him up.''

''Guys, come on, that can't be the only memory you have of me.''

''There was that themed night just a month after Gun joined and he spent the entire shift wearing those brown floppy dog ears.'' Franc reaches for his phone. ''I think I still might have the photos.''

Gun stretches across the table to swipe at Franc's phone, ''What, no-! That was so embarrassing!''

Laughter rings out around their table, but it dwindles down just as fast, Gun's friends falling oddly silent as something (or someone) behind Gun catches their attention.

''Er...'' Book raises a hand hesitantly, his lips twitching as if he's unsure if he should smile or not. ''H-hello, Yotha.''

Franc mirrors his friend's gesture, both of them exchanging uncertain looks since it's not often that Yotha willingly comes to cross paths with them. They're even more bewildered by the massive bouquet of flowers that a stone-faced Yotha is holding in his hands.

''Yotha.'' Gun's gaze strays towards the huge bouquet of vivid sunflowers in the other's hand. ''Wow, seeing you holding flowers is kinda jarring actually.'' Especially since Yotha's dressed in all black from top to toe, his dark sunglasses perched on top of his head. ''I guess even someone as intimidating as you can receive flowers.'' He teases good-naturedly.

''...they're for you.''

''Huh?!'' Gun might have said it a tad too loudly, Yotha flinching slightly.

''For you.'' Yotha repeats slowly, handing the bouquet over to Gun. ''Today marks your one year here.''

''I...'' Behind Gun, Kong and Book are nudging each other with their elbows. ''I didn't think-'' Gun finds himself smiling broadly as he takes the bouquet into his own hands, bringing it close against his chest. ''Thank you, Yotha.'' The sunflowers are gorgeous, so vivid against the black wrapping paper that Yotha had picked out. ''They're so pretty.'' He finds that he can't stop smiling, cradling the bouquet like it's the most precious thing he's been gifted.

''I'll help you carry it to the dressing room.'' Gun suddenly remembers that he has a shift that he needs to get ready for, so he readily nods and hands the bouquet back to Yotha before throwing out a quick goodbye to his friends.

''We weren't hallucinating, right?'' Franc whispers, staring at their friend's retreating back. ''Yotha really did come up here to give Gun flowers.''

''He did.''

''I don't know how Gun does it. Just Yotha standing there had me feeling like ten years have been deducted from my lifespan.''

''No way, try twenty.''

- / -

There's a pep in Gun's steps as they make their way towards the dressing room. With everyone still downstairs, the room was devoid of anyone else.

''Did Faifa tell you that it was my one year anniversary at Bang On?'' Gun shifts some of his stuff off the dressing table to make space for the bouquet.

''No.''

Gun turns around, disbelief etched on his features, ''You remember when I first joined?'' He doesn't know why he's taken aback, but he didn't think it was something that Yotha would consider worth remembering. Carefully, he takes the bouquet of sunflowers from the other and places it on the desk before snapping a couple of photos with his phone.

''Hard to forget how a wet dog looks.'' Yotha remarks off-handedly as he takes Gun's seat, though the twitch at the corner of his lips betrays his fondness. 

''Why does everyone only remember the embarrassing things about me?'' Ugh, the puppy ears thing, him tripping over the steps and how he had been mercilessly sprayed in the face by a malfunctioning tap the first day he had started at Bang On. ''It's been a year since you first met me. Don't you have something good to say about me at least?''

Gun's startled when he's lightly pulled forward until he's standing in between Yotha's spread legs. He's not sure why he's shy all of a sudden with Yotha pinning him with a look that's bordering on thoughtful. It shouldn't be possible, but even with Gun standing and Yotha seated, there's always something about the other that makes Gun feel small. Not in a bad way whatsoever. He likes how when he's with Yotha, it's as if he doesn't have to use much of his brain power since the other would handle it for him. ''You just have to sit there and look pretty.'', wasn't that what Yotha had told him? Thinking back, Gun realizes that Yotha very rarely makes him lift a finger for anything; he's there to help Gun carry his bag and to open the passenger car door, the first to step up to the stage or table with a bottle of water after Gun's done with a routine, or how he's always ready to extend a hand whenever Gun's shift requires him to wear footwear that's clunkier or something with a heel. It's as if Yotha is in tune with what Gun wants before he can even verbalize it.

''Something good?'' Yotha repeats, cocking his head to the side as if he's genuinely mulling over it. ''Nothing's really coming to mind just yet.''

''You jerk-'' Gun makes a feeble attempt to pull his hands away, but he's restrained by Yotha's firm hold.

Huh, he hasn't really noticed how Yotha's hand can encompass his so easily. 

''I want to say it's a good thing that everyone finds you so likeable. P'Arm, P'Arc, Faifa, the rest of the employees, but...'' With one smooth tug of his hands, Gun finds himself being pulled down into Yotha's lap, the male letting go of his wrists only to wrap an arm around Gun's waist instead to keep him in place. The heat of Yotha's arm seeps through the thin shirt that Gun has on, further reminding him of their close proximity. ''...it's not something that I like. It just means I have to share you with more people.''

It's one thing to be sitting in Yotha's lap without the other male even batting a goddamn eyelid, but to be told that Yotha doesn't like sharing him?

Gun's beginning to wonder if he might have had one drink too many. They've grown progressively closer to the point where Gun is lucky enough to experience the different sides of Yotha that no one else has ever been privy to - like his cheeky and playful side, for instance. But was it normal for close friends to express their desire to have someone for themselves only?!

''Gun. You're thinking too loudly.'' 

''Can you really blame me? I'm sitting in your lap and you're telling me that you don't want to share me. Do enlighten me how I'm supposed to react, Mr.I-Don't-Show-My-Emotions.'' He replies sassily, gaining back some of his wit and confidence.

''That's one more good thing about you. You always speak your mind around me.''

Faifa had told Gun once that Yotha was used to people walking on eggshells around him. It didn't help that his brash and cold demeanour made people think three to four times before approaching him.

Gun leans in and starts sniffing at Yotha, trying to pick out the telltale scent of alcohol. ''...you're not drunk.'' However, he does pick up the familiar tinge of the cigarettes that Yotha loves to smoke. It's not too overbearing that Gun finds it repulsive.

Yotha levels him with a look that results in Gun's stomach doing some really complex somersaults. ''You know I don't drink on the nights that I have to drive you home. Not when you're precious cargo.''

Gun's not sure how he's going to get through his shift with his sanity intact. Not when his heart's trying to rabbit its way out of his damn ribcage. Obviously, something has changed ever since the day Gun had spent the night at Yotha's house two weeks ago. Although the encounter with their mom had left an unpleasant memory for them, even Gun has to admit that Yotha's treatment towards him has evolved.

''Faifa, is the employee questionnaire compulsory? I mean, it's been like nearly a year since I joined. I don't really need to fill it up, right?''

''What employee questionnaire?''

''The one that Yotha forwarded to my personal email. He said it's a mandatory questionnaire for all employees and that I was supposed to fill it up when I first joined. There were questions about my likes and dislikes, my favorite color, the kind of music that I like to listen to,...'' Gun tries to recall the questions listed on the online form. ''There was one asking me about how I cope with stress. Why would you need this information anyway?''

''Gun, in the first place, we don't even have an employee questionnaire.''

''What? No way.'' Gun takes his iPhone out of his bag and pulls out his e-mail application, tapping on the questionnaire that had been forwarded to him. ''See?''

Faifa takes his phone from him and starts reading the questionnaire, his smile growing wider and wider with each read question. He passes the phone back to Gun once he's done, clasping his fingers together. ''Congratulations, friend.''

''...what the hell are you congratulating me for?''

''My dear, dear brother clearly wants to get to know you better. This is his way of doing so.''

Still clueless as to what it might mean, Gun scratches his head in confusion, ''He could just come up to me and ask me?''

''He'd rather shoot himself in the head.''

Gun wonders if this is what Faifa might have meant about Yotha wanting to get to know him better. When he had attempted to befriend Yotha all those months back, it had not once crossed Gun's mind that it would him to where there are today. Him sitting in Yotha's lap, to be exact.

''Yotha-''

The door bursts open and if it wasn't for Yotha's secure hold on his waist, Gun thinks he might have toppled to the floor. 

''Gun, P'Nop brought you a cake to celebrate your one year here and-'' Faifa finally registers the sight that is his best friend sitting on his older brother's lap. He whistles under his breath, ''Well, I've clearly interrupted something.''

Panicking, Gun shakes his head, ''No-''

Yotha, on the other hand, bites out a terse, ''Yes'', refusing to relinquish his hold on Gun's waist. 

''Too bad. There's cake upstairs and everyone's waiting for Gun.'' Faifa is truly unfazed by the death stare that Yotha's giving him. ''Come on, Gun.''

''Uhh...'' Gun's gaze shifts from Faifa to Yotha, as if he's waiting for the other male to give him the go-ahead to join the rest upstairs.

''Yotha, you don't have to hold him so tightly.'' Faifa peels the male's hand away from Gun's waist. ''He's only going upstairs. '' Gun finds himself being steered towards the door by the shoulders, casting a helpless look towards an obviously annoyed Yotha. ''I'll take good care of your puppy.'' He demonstrates so by patting the back of Gun's head.

''Ugh, stop that.'' Gun light-heartedly smacks Faifa's hands away. ''Yotha, I'll bring you some cake! Wait for me!''

Gun nearly bumps into Faifa's back when the other suddenly stops halfway down the steps, ''Why did you stop?''

Faifa lightly jabs the tip of his finger against Gun's forehead, ''You're lucky I came in when I did, or you'd have been devoured by Yotha.''

Gun rubs at his forehead with a pout, ''We were just talking.''

''Uh huh, and Yotha was eyeing you like you were a tasty treat dropped into his lap.''

When it's described in a way, Gun finds that he doesn't really mind that Yotha sees him in such a way. He's always taken pride in taking care of his personal appearance, though he wouldn't say that he's overly vain. Gun takes care of what he eats, finding time to indulge in some of his favorite foods too, and he works out enough to maintain his physical stamina since dancing does take up a lot of energy. Most of his close friends would also say that he's got a whole ass haircare and skincare regime going on as well. So yes, he's pleased that Yotha finds him physically attractive.

''You make it sound like it's bad thing.'' They continue down the steps towards the main floor.

''It's not - it's fun seeing him act like a lovesick idiot around you.'' Faifa stops at the bottom of the steps, stopping Gun as well before they can join the rowdy group outside. ''Remember when you first joined Bang On and you asked me about Yotha?''

Gun slowly nods his head, wondering where Faifa was heading with this. 

''Yotha is like this with you because he's comfortable around you. This is what he's choosing to show you because he feels like it's something you can accept. But there are still parts of our lives that we keep carefully hidden.'' Faifa rests a hand on Gun's shoulder and gives him a searching look, hoping that he can somehow relay the message across. ''It's not all pleasant. Do you understand what I'm hinting at, Gun?''

''...does it have to do with what your family does for a living?''

Faifa nods his head, relieved that Gun had managed to catch on so quickly. ''I just want you to give Yotha a chance and hear him out when he's finally ready to tell you.''

''Faifa, he once turned up at my apartment all bruised and bloodied. If I wasn't comfortable beings friends with him then, I would have distanced myself already.''

''I can foresee that Yotha's going to have it bad for you. You should enjoy your days of being single while you can, puppy. Because once my dear brother decides to really pursue you, you're not getting rid of him that easily.''

- / -

Chapter Text

Gun steps out of the backdoor and regrets it immediately when the muggy night air hits him right in the back. Yotha follows behind him a second later with Gun's duffel bag slung over his shoulder, bouquet of sunflowers in hand.

''The car's parked down the alley.''

''Are you sure you don't need to attend to the work call from earlier? The way P'New talked about it made it sound like it was urgent.''

''I'll focus better knowing that I dropped you off at home.''

Considering Yotha's lack of urgency, it's probably not as urgent as Newton had made it out to be. They continue making their way towards Yotha's car, and it's obvious that Gun's in extra high spirits tonight. Joining Bang On was single-handedly the best decision he could have made for himself a year ago. He sneaks a glance at Yotha, but hurriedly turns to face the front once more when he gets caught looking. Gun finds himself wondering if Yotha gets told a lot how handsome he is. Surely yes? 

Gun's grateful when Yotha doesn't point out his sneaky staring, not knowing what he'd answer the other. However, Gun nearly bumps into Yotha from behind when the male slows down his steps, his entire posture going rigid as if it's prepped for fight or flight.

Blocking the way down the alley is a group of three men and while Santa should know better than anyone else not to judge a book by its cover, the way they're menacingly eyeing Yotha makes his gut twist unpleasantly. They're sporting identical coiled snake tattoos on the underside of their wrists, and he's vaguely reminded about what Faifa had told him about being extra careful when leaving at night. Instinctively, Gun curls his fingers around Yotha's elbow just as the male completely steps in front of him, shielding Gun from the group's direct line of sight.

''About time you finally showed your face to us, Yotha.''

''Was the thrashing I gave your men last week not enough to make you understand?'' Yotha sounds completely bored, as if he's wasting his breath just talking to them. ''I don't do business with idiots. Or backstabbers.''

The dark-blonde haired individual standing in the centre scowls, making him seem two times more threatening than before. ''You're a cocky piece of shit, aren't you? We'll see just how tough you really are without your men with you.'' As if to prove that he means business, he smashes the empty bottle that he's holding against the column of the streetlamp before directing the sharp jagged edges at Yotha. Next to him, one of them draws out a penknife from the back pocket his jeans, the razor sharp tip glinting as it catches the light from the streetlamp above them.

''Yotha.'' Gun clutches at the sleeve of Yotha's jacket, uncertainty and dread enveloping him like a cold blanket. 

Oh god, as cliche as it might sound, the first thought that crosses his mind is: I'm too young to die???

''Gun, listen to me carefully. I need you to run as quickly as you can back to the club, and tell Faifa and Newton. They'll know what to do.'' It strikes Gun there and then that Yotha sounds immensely cool and collected - an indication that this isn't his first time being on the receiving end of such encounters.

''That's crazy, I can't leave you alone. There's three of them! Yotha, you don't have to fight them - we can just head back to the club and-''

''Gun.'' Yotha says with more urgency this time round. ''Please.''

Perhaps it's the fear, or the adrenaline coursing through him, but Gun doesn't register letting go of Yotha and running back to the club as fast as his jelly-like legs would allow him to. But he does register bursting past through the back door in a fit of utter panic, yelling his lungs out for Faifa. Newton. Anyone. Every second feels like it's stretched impossibly long and Gun just wants to get back to Yotha's side as soon as he can. 

''Faifa.'' One look at Gun's panicked expression and the way that he's trembling is enough to tell Faifa that his brother's in trouble. ''Yotha, outside - there were these three people and one of them has a knife-''

He tamps down the urge to throw up, not wanting to think if the group would be enough to hurt Yotha to the point of death. But he keeps thinking of the penknife that one of them had and the panic surges in him once more, Gun urgently scrabbling at Faifa, his vision going blurry at the edges as the fear overtakes him.

''Gun, breathe.''

Newton's already urgently yelling for Arc and a few more of their security personnel that's still around, the group disappearing out of the back door within seconds. Gun makes a move to step out as well but Faifa holds him back with a firm shake of his head.

''Faifa-''

''Yotha would kill me if I let you go back out there.'' Faifa tells him grimly. ''I know you want to help him, but Yotha knows what he's doing.''

''But-''

It's not the most comforting to hear, but Gun has no choice as Faifa herds him towards one of the booths. Unwillingly, he takes a seat, his eyes drifting towards the shut door as he worriedly gnaws at the skin of his thumb. It's only a few minutes later, but to him, it might as well have felt like hours. The door swings open noisily, both Arc and Newton holding Yotha up in between them. He didn't seem too banged up, but there was a gash right at the corner of his eyebrows, a trail of blood leading from the cut down to the side of his face. 

''He took a couple of kick to the ribs. We should get him to see if there's any fracture or-''

Yotha refuses with a loud grunt, his face pinched into that of a grimace when they lower him down onto one of the chairs. ''No hospital.''

''Huh, if he's still able to be stubborn like this-'' Faifa glares at his brother. ''-then he's probably fine.''

Gun hurries over to Yotha's side, the nausea that he's been suppressing spiking when he notices the blood staining Yotha's inner white shirt. It feels like it's something he should be used to by now, but something about it seems so much scarier this time round. There's no words exchanged when Yotha lifts his head enough to meet Gun's terrified expression, immediately reaching out for the other as if it's the comfort that he needs at the moment. It's clear that Yotha's enduring the pain, his eyes pinched shut, but his grip on Gun's hands remains firm.

Behind them, Gun hears Faifa say something about getting the first aid kid and that he'll make a call to one of their family doctors to give Yotha a quick check-up, just in case.

''Gun, can you help Yotha to his room upstairs?'' Newton's sharp enough to notice that the two might need a moment to themselves without the prying eyes of the rest.

Not trusting himself to speak, Gun nods. Yotha pushes himself up with a pained grimace before he allows himself to lean half his weight against Gun. Each step that he takes must feel like hell on his bruised ribs, so Gun tries to move as slowly as he possible can without jostling the other too much. They finally reach Yotha's private room upstairs when the male heavily sinks down onto the edge of the mattress, the bruises on his face showing up more vividly under the yellow lighting. 

''Hey.'' Faifa enters with the first aid kit. ''I'll leave it to you. The doctor will probably be here in about thirty minutes or so to check if he might have broken anything-''

''Faifa, what did I say about no doctors?''

''If you won't do it for my peace of mind, at least do it for Gun's.'' Faifa shoots back. ''I'll leave this idiot to you, Gun.''

Gun pulls the curtain back and returns to where Yotha's seated at the edge of the bed once more, taking the spot next to him. He can feel Yotha's piercing gaze on him while he unwraps the sterile gauze, taking longer than usual with how shaky his hands are. He stills when both of Yotha's hands swims into view, carefully holding both of his hands as if wary of spooking him.

''You're shaking.''

''I just saw someone threatening you with a penknife, Yotha. You could have-'' He doesn't want to verbalize it, doesn't want to think of Yotha bleeding out on the pavement.

''That's not the worst thing someone has threatened me with.''

Gun frowns, finally raising his head up, ''If that's your way of trying to comfort me, you're doing an ass job of it. Please don't try to play the hero next time.''

''I can't promise that.''

With a sigh, Gun makes an attempt to wrestles his hands away so that he can attempt to clean the gash above Yotha's eyebrow. ''Whatever. Just don't die. If there's one thing that scares me more than the dark, it's ghosts. Knowing you, you'd probably be a vengeful one.'' Carefully, he dabs the gauze against the cut, wincing when Yotha lets out a sharp hiss between his teeth. ''Sorry.'' He applies the slightest bit of pressure to it, paying attention to Yotha's expression. ''...were they people that you used to do business with?''

Gun's not really expecting an answer. Whatever it is that Yotha does for work, it's his business.

''Used to. We had an agreement, but they got greedy and tried to get a bigger cut of the profit through some backhanded means. Por find out about it, so I dealt with them.''

''This might hurt a little.'' Gun warns him in advance, trying as best as he can to scrape away the dried blood around the edges of the cut.

''You've never asked me what my family does for a living.'' 

Gun tosses the bloodied gauze into the bin next to the bed, ''With you, I've learned not to ask questions that I know I won't get a satisfactory answer to.'' Satisfied with how the clean the cut looks now, Gun rifles through the first aid kit for the antiseptic cream. ''Faifa told me that you're only showing me what you want me to see. I feel like if I start prying, you're going to shut yourself away. So...I'll take what I can get for now.'' Antiseptic cream in hand, Gun brings his focus back to Yotha's face. ''There's not much I can do for the bruises. The doctor's probably going to give you some antibiotics for it later.''

''I'm afraid that what you hear might disappoint you.'' Gun's surprised when he feels the warm touch of Yotha's palm against his cheek. ''That's the last thing I want to do.''

For someone who's so rough and intimidating, he's always so delicate with Gun. Sighing, Gun allows himself to lean into the touch, basking in the knowledge that Yotha is safe and here with him. Someone behind the curtain clears their throat.

''Gun, the doctor's here.'' The curtains slide open and Faifa appears in the doorway, accompanied by a fatherly older figure whom Gun assumes must be the family's private physician.

''I'll come in once he's done.'' Gun tells Yotha, giving his knee a reassuring pat.

He excuses himself out of the room and joins Faifa outside, feeling so exhausted now that the tension and adrenaline has worn off. Faifa takes a look at him and steps in for a sympathetic hug, ''You alright, Gun?''

''I don't think I'll ever get used to it.'' Gun admits, grateful for his best friend's concern. He leans into the hug, allowing the tension to flow and ebb away. ''Seeing him bruised and bloodied. But tonight, realizing that this is something Yotha's used to...it's terrifying.'' He chokes out, voice coming out muffled against Faifa's shoulder. 

''This has been his life for as long as he's known, Gun.'' Faifa rubs the back of his head comfortingly before pulling away. ''He knew I wouldn't have the stomach to take over the messy part of the business. P'New has his own hands full running the club, so he stepped up for us because he didn't want years of por's work to go down the drain.'' Gun nods his understanding - sensing that Yotha and he would probably have a talk about this later, if he's still lucid enough from the medication. ''Anyway, I doubt Yotha's in any shape to be moving around tonight. Do you mind keeping him company tonight? I'll get Kong to swing by your place to pick up some essentials that you might need.''

''Yeah, that'd be great.'' Gun didn't think he'd want to leave Yotha all by himself anyway. ''Thanks, Faifa.''

The doctor certifies that there's no fracture whatsoever, just some really bad bruising. Yotha's prescribed some pills to help reduce the inflammation, along with strict orders not to exert himself too much. His bloody shirt has been replaced with a clean one when Gun re-enters the room, the male propped up against the headboard and a pillow. 

''Here.'' Gun presses the bottle of pills into Yotha's hand along with a bottle of water from the fridge. ''The doctor said it'll help with the inflammation. Also, I'll give you a sponge bath later. The doctor said we should try to minimize your movements as much as possible.'' With these instructions on hand to follow through, it's helping Gun to become progressively calmer now that he has something to focus on.

''Have you ever thought of going into private nursing?''

''Huh, you'd just love to see me in a nurse uniform, you pervert.'' 

''If it's the one with the skirt, sure.''

''Don't make me add another bruise to your face, Yotha.''

It doesn't cross Gun's mind that Yotha's more perceptive than he lets on. Before he can react, he finds himself being pulled into a tender hug, Yotha guiding his face towards the crook of his neck when he breathes in the scent that he associates with comfort and security, the tip of his nose skimming against Yotha's pulse. They stay like that, Yotha holding him, Gun with his face pressed up against the male's neck, seeking comfort in the familiarity of the other's arms.

''It's fine, Gun.'' Yotha's words washes over him like a blanket of safety, pushing out the uneasiness that he's been harboring. ''I'm sorry if I scared you.''

Gun bites the inside of his cheek, blinking away the tears threatening to blur his vision at how Yotha's comforting him. 

''Did getting punch in the face turn you into a sap all of a sudden?'' Cracking a joke is the only way Gun knows how to cope for now. He's not ready to dwell over the what-if(s) just yet. ''Don't get emotional. I'm not used to it. Also, eat the medicine - don't make me repeat myself again.''

Yotha swallows down two of the pills with a few gulps of water. Just as Gun's about to pick up the male's bloodied shirt off the bed and toss it into the laundry hamper, Yotha stops him.

''Do you want to know what my family does for a living?'' Gun remains seated, feeling as if he's just been given an option. If he says no, then perhaps things between them would remain as it currently is. But if he says yes, there's always the likelihood that whatever he might hear might scare him off.

''I just have one concern. Er...well...have you, you know...ever...killed someone?''

''Gun, I hope you're not confusing me for the mafia.''

Annoyed that he's being teased, Gun smacks Yotha on the thigh, but immediately apologizes when the other male groans in pain. ''Sorry. I'm sorry. I mean, I just had to be sure!''

''No. I've not killed anyone before.'' 

''...but you've hurt people.'' 

''Only those who deserve it.'' Yotha replies matter-of-factly, carefully gauging Gun's facial expression. ''People who think they can betray me, or take advantage of my family's kindness. Por got into this line of work when he was younger because he needed the money. My grandfather used to be an errand boy for the family that he worked for. This was a really, really long time ago. He didn't mind doing the dirty work for them. It got to a point where he learned enough to dabble in it himself, simply because he wanted to provide a good life for his family.  He did it all ; Money laundering, unlicensed moneylending, black market import/export, prescriptions...''

Gun thinks he knows where this story might be heading, ''...and your por took over?''

Yotha nods, ''He's always had a sharp eye for these things. After he took over from my grandfather, it was obvious that he was really good at it. Growing up, he never really tried to hide it from Faifa, New and I. But as we got older, Faifa realized that he'd never have the stomach for this, so he decided to just run the club with New.''

Gun keeps quiet, trying to ingest the information that Yotha's willingly giving to him. 

''You asked me before, remember? Whether I enjoy what I'm doing.''

It feels like a lifetime ago.

''You said that sometimes we don't get to choose the things that we want to do.'' 

''I lied. Partly. I chose this path. Por gave me an option - either he retires from this life completely, or one of us takes over. I chose to take over.'' Yotha flinches as he shifts forward, and Gun notices the way he hesitates, as if unsure if Gun would want Yotha to touch him. ''I'm not a good person, Gun. Far from it. I've ruined so many lives with what I do for a living.''

It's a lot to take in, but all Gun can focus on the moment is how Yotha is choosing to be completely honest and vulnerable with him. A part of him feels like he should be running in the opposite direction. He's never regarded Yotha as someone he should be scared of, or someone that he should consider as dangerous. Now, seated across him, hearing all these things for himself - Gun still doesn't feel the unease that he should be feeling.

''Is there a reason why you decided to tell this to me? Aren't you afraid that I'm going to go around telling people?'' Gun recoils slightly, eyeing Yotha suspiciously. ''You'd better not get any funny ideas about killing me. I'm very well-loved and people will notice if I'm missing.'' 

''You talking my ear off would put me off killing you.''

''Good. If I die, I'll haunt you every second of the day. But seriously, why are you telling me?''

Yotha deliberates over the question for a moment, ''Por used to tell me this - in this line of work, to find someone that you can trust to stay by your side, with no judgements...it's near to impossible. But if we do find that someone, then we should consider ourselves lucky.'' 

''So you chose to tell me because you want me to decide whether I'll choose to stay or if I'll walk away?''

''If I decide for myself, I'm afraid you'll have no choice because I'll make you stay no matter what.'' 

Gun feels like he should be more worried about how delighted he is by Yotha's words, because that really shouldn't be the case. He bites the inside of his cheek so that he wouldn't start smiling like an utter nutcase, avoiding Yotha's eyes briefly in an attempt to collect himself. No way in Hell he's going to show the other how flustered he is. No reason for Yotha to gain the upper hand again. 

''I always kinda had a hunch.'' Out of habit, he begins to pick at a loose thread from the rip in his jeans. ''No one is your kind of rich earning a honest living. Besides, it's not as if I didn't see my fair share of dodgy stuff when I was working at Atmos.'' He's aiming for nonchalant, wanting Yotha to understand that he's being really open-minded about this entire thing. ''I don't scare easily, you know. I've said it before - I'm more than just a pretty face.''

''I know.'' Gun scrunches his nose just as Yotha affectionately tweaks it between his fingers. ''You're the only one I didn't manage to scare off.''

Gun makes a chomping motion towards Yotha's finger, ''It's going to take a lot to scare me away. Especially when I start caring for someone.''

Yotha's all up in his personal space all of a sudden, not allowing Gun to pull back to create some distance between them. ''Do you care for me?'' He asks, those unusually expressing eyes pinning Gun right to the spot, quietly demanding for an answer.

''I...of course? I care for everyone that I'm close to.'' He scoots backwards, nearly falling off the edge of the bed, much to Yotha's amusement. ''Faifa, P'Arm, P'Arc,-'' Nervous laughter fills the room. ''You. Um, Book, Franc- why are you bringing your face so close to me?'' He pushes Yotha back by the shoulders, hating how high-pitched his voice sounds. Not able to endure it for a second longer, Gun hurriedly gets off the bed and mutters something about the sponge bath.

He escapes into the bathroom and shuts the door behind him, attempting to register as to why his heart's racing as he leans over the sink, fingers curled around the ceramic edges.

''Get a grip, Gunyukhol.'' He says to his reflection, making a face when he realizes just how flushed his face is. ''Get a freaking grip. It's just Yotha. I know you think he's attractive, but seriously, letting him get under your skin like that-'' He continues mumbling to himself, turning on the tap so that he can douse his face with cold water. ''Oh god, what the hell is he doing to me-''

He considers just putting his head under the tap to snap himself out of it, but Yotha's old comment about looking like a wet dog stops him from doing so.

''Shit, I'm so fucked.''

- / -

Chapter Text

There's still a lot of things that Yotha doesn't know about Gun.

Like how he has an ex-boyfriend, for instance.

Like every other Thursday, he's at the club to wait until Gun's done with his shift, with the intention of having supper together and depending on how fatigued the other is, he might be cajoled into spending the night at Yotha's instead of going back to his own condo. It's been a month and a half since that conversation - so they're very, very slowly easing into a different sort of intimacy and familiarity with each other. It's obvious to Yotha that Gun's wary, for good reason, as if he can't quite digest the fact that Yotha harbors feelings that goes beyond friendship. But he's receptive to Yotha's flirting, very much basking in the special care and attention that Yotha shows to only him. Faifa terms it a situationship, Yotha tells him to stop poking his nose into his business, thank you very much.

He immediately seeks out for Gun the moment he steps foot into the club, the bass of the amped-up music reverberating around the premises. He has a forty-minute break each shift which he usually spends either napping in the dressing room or hanging out with Arm if the male happens to be working that night. It's still too early into the night for all the booths to be occupied, so there are moments where the dancers are allowed to take longer breaks if they're not occupied. He doesn't sight Gun at his usual booth (he's popular enough to have regulars now), but finds him engaged in conversation with someone near the staircase leading up to the private rooms upstairs. He's leaning against the wall, arms crossed, but posture relaxed; his body posture telling Yotha that it's someone he's familiar with. It's not a face that Yotha has seen before at the club. As badly as it might reflect on him, Yotha makes it a point to recognize all the customers that Gun's chummy with. 

Distractedly, Yotha notices Arm raising a hand in greeting from across the room, so he reluctantly makes his way over. He glances over his shoulder again, ignoring the tendrils of jealousy that snakes up on him when Gun laughs at whatever it is that he's being told. 

''Here you go.'' Arm places a glass of cider in front of him without asking what Yotha would like to drink, already aware that Yotha wouldn't touch a drop of alcohol on days that Gun works since he's self-appointed himself as the male's designated driver.

''Thank you, P'Arm.'' Yotha can't resist looking over his shoulder again. ''P', do you know the man that Gun's talking to?''

Arm gestures to one of the bartenders in training to take over for a bit so that he can chat comfortably with Yotha. 

''Oh, that's his ex-boyfriend from back in university.''

''...how do you know that?''

Then again, it shouldn't be surprising considering that Arm and Gun even spend time together outside of work. On days where they're not slotted working and Yotha's occupied with work-related things, he knows the pair usually head out to check out niche cafes in other neighborhoods. Then Yotha would find his LINE chat with Gun spammed with endless photos of intricately-colored drinks and selfies. Not that he's complaining. If they're not outside together, then they'd be spend the day holed in at Arm's condo playing games or just lazing around until Arc comes home and Yotha's done with his errands. 

Arm gives him a look that clearly says he's offended that Yotha would even ask him such a question, ''Gun's my favorite nong. Of course he tells me things. No need to look so concerned, Yotha. Knowing you, you've probably never asked him about his past relationships before, hm?'' It should be annoying how astute Arm can be, but Yotha likes him as an older brother figure enough to let it slide. ''Gun only told me about him because we were shopping together a few months back and happened to bump into this guy. Being the nosy person that I am, of course I pried.''

''They look like they're on good terms.''

Yotha couldn't imagine being on such friendly terms with his ex-partner. 

''Gun said it was an amicable split. Mainly because the guy secured a job attachment overseas and the idea of doing long distance didn't appeal to them.''

Yotha figures he's heard enough. Now, if it was a shitty ex-boyfriend, he'd just stand by the sidelines and step in if Gun needed him to. But a nice boyfriend? No way that Yotha was going to allow any chances whatsoever of a possible reconciliation. Arm looks alarmed when Yotha suddenly stands up, for good reason. He's known to be rash, but really, he's just planning to let it be known that Gun has someone who's very much interested in him.

''Yotha-''

''Don't worry, P'Arm. I'm not going to do anything.'' 

Arm doesn't look convinced, it's not as if anything he says would change anything. Yotha makes his way over to the pair and as soon as he's within reach, the first thing that he does is to snake his arm around Gun's waist, lips a mere brush away from Gun's ear to paint a picture of intimacy.

''There you are.''

It's as if Gun's body is now attuned to Yotha's touches, because he doesn't flinch at the sudden touch before he realizes that it's Yotha. The smile that Gun directs at him is enough to rid him of the useless jealousy, the male immediately leaning into Yotha's side. They're a perfect fit; built to fit each other like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. 

''I didn't think you'd be here so early. You said you'd only be here around 2am.'' 

''The faster I get things done, the quicker I get to see you.''

One of the endearing things about Gun is that he's not the kind who's able to mask his emotions well. It's obvious that he likes what he's hearing.

''Sweet talker.'' Yotha receives a playful eye roll in return. ''Oh, right, uh-'' As if realizing that they're in the company of someone else, Gun quickly jumps to the introductions. ''This is Hiran - my friend from university. Hiran, this is Yotha. He co-owns the club with his brothers.''

''Nice to meet you, Yotha. It's a really great club, by the way.''

''One of his friends has a table booked here tonight for a bachelor party.''

''Are you really sure we can't pay you extra to have you at our table instead?''

Yotha stiffens, but Gun lets out an easy going laugh, a hand coming up to pat Yotha on the chest, ''You're going to have ask permission from Yotha. He's very particular when it comes to new clientele. What do you say, Yotha?''

''Congratulations on your friend's marriage.'' There's no sincerity whatsoever in Yotha's tone, and he can sense that Gun's struggling to hold in his laughter at Yotha's lack of care. ''We have ten other dancers tonight that you can pick from tonight. Just not Gun.'' It's a solid unspoken fuck off, thank you. 

Hiran smiles in clear defeat, understanding that Yotha's not someone that should be trifled with. 

''Message received loud and clear. You sure know how to pick em', Gun.''

''What can I say? I like the bad ones.''

Hiran gladly excuses himself when one of his friends calls him over, finally leaving Yotha to deal with Gun. He cocks an eyebrow at the other when Gun flashes him an innocent smile, wordlessly backing the smaller male up against the wall. He's always been broader than the other, and with the heeled loafers that he's wearing, Yotha easily has an extra five to six centimeters to his height. For someone who's being bracketed against the wall, Gun looks completely at ease. In fact, he seems as if he's enjoying it.

''You didn't tell me you had an ex-boyfriend.''

''You didn't ask.'' Gun challenges. ''So, Khun Yotha - you're the jealous kind, huh? Never really pegged you for the sort.'' 

''I've been told before that being possessive isn't a good trait.'' But how could he not be possessive over Gun? Looks aside, he had the personality to pull anyone and Yotha could only imagine how popular he must have been back in university.

Yotha believes that he has no right to feel jealous or possessive, not when Gun isn't someone to be owned. Still, he's not going to lie to himself that he's not fighting an internal battle with himself to understand that. 

Nimble fingers come up to idly toy with the lapels of Yotha's shirt, Gun tugging on it so that it shortens the already non-existent distance between them. ''I like it.''

For someone who had been so crazily flustered just from Yotha asking him if he cared a month and a half ago, Gun's doing a complete 180 now. It takes Yotha a moment to collect himself. It's insane how Gun can knock him off-kilter so easily with just three simple words. 

''Are you giving me permission to be possessive?'' He asks quietly, and even if the music blaring in the background, Yotha knows that Gun hears him loud and clear. ''Even when we're not in a relationship?'' The unspoken 'yet' lingers in the air.

''To a certain degree. Like I said-'' Gun peers up at him from beneath his long lashes, sultry and shy at the same time - god, it's driving Yotha insane. ''I like it. It's hot.''

''Gun, you can't say things like that and expect me not to-'' 

He's not expecting Gun to push himself up on his toes, the male lightly touching his lips to the corner of Yotha's lips. It's sticky from the gloss that he generously applies onto his lips before each shift, Yotha catching a whiff of watermelon. It's brief, but it has Yotha's mind completely blanking out for a good five seconds. Gun himself looks as if he can't believe that he had pulled such a move out of nowhere.

''I should really-'' For someone who had been bold enough to pull that move, Gun can't even look him in the eye.

Maybe it's Yotha purely acting on instinct, or it's an urge that he's been suppressing for too long. He really shouldn't. He lowers his head, hand coming up to cup Gun's soft cheek in his palm as he searches the male's face for any traces of uncomfortableness. All Yotha finds is hopefulness. Gun unconsciously gnawing on his bottom lip out of anticipation, looking seductive without really intending to. 

''There's a strict no-touching policy in this club, Khun Yotha.'' It's teasing. ''As the co-owner of the club, you should be familiar with the rules.''

''Good thing I've never been one to care about the rules.'' Fuck the rules.

He'd say that he doesn't remember who kisses who first. Yotha vaguely feels the coil of Gun's arms around his neck to pull him down just as Yotha goes in for the kiss at the same time. It flies over their heads that they're essentially out in the open area and that anyone walking past the area would be able to see them, but truly fuck it. All Yotha can think of is how soft pliable Gun's lips feels against him, the silky strands of the male's hair slipping through Yotha's fingers as he cups the back of his head to deepen the kiss. There's nothing sweet and unhurried about it, just the quiet desperation of two people. Yotha nearly loses it there and then when he takes Gun's bottom lip between his teeth, the other making a needy mewling sound at the back of his throat. Yotha prides himself on his ability to stop and break the kiss, almost caving in again when Gun looks at him with those dazed half-lidded eyes.

''Why did you stop?'' Gun asks, almost on the verge of sounding adorably petulant.

''Because I'm not intending on losing control out here where everyone can see how seductive you are.''

Gun breaks out into a delighted smile, ''Quick to show how possessive your are now that you know I like it, huh?'' 

''This is nothing.'' It's Yotha's turn to playfully taunt the other, achieving the desired effect.

Someone politely coughs next to them and of course, it's Faifa. Yotha takes a step back and Gun self-consciously starts smoothing down his tousled hair. ''Uh, I should probably get back to my booth. See you later, Yotha.'' 

''See you.''

Well, that leaves him to deal with Faifa.

''Save it.'' Yotha tells his brother, crossing his arms against his chest. ''Not a word.''

Faifa could care less about what Yotha wants. ''All those private room upstairs and you just had to put on that little display out here, huh? Tell me, what kind of friends kiss each other like that?''

Yotha sighs out loud, ''When's Wine coming back from his holiday? You're extra annoying when he's away.'' 

''Of course I am.'' Faifa suddenly clings to Yotha, fake sobbing onto his shoulder. ''I'm so lonely without my boyfriend. Do you think Wine misses me, Yotha?''

''...you're getting on my nerves.'' Yotha tells his brother, pushing him away when the other makes an attempt to hug him. 

''So cruel, Yotha.''

- / -

Chapter Text

Gun doesn't like stillness - when he's home, he needs to have the television or a podcast switched on in the background. Or he calls his mae and puts her on speaker while going his chores, just so that he wouldn't have to sit in a quiet apartment. Perhaps it's because when it's silent, it reminds me how thick and consuming the silence in the storage shed was when he had been trapped inside. 

Today, he's immensely bored out of his mind. The club was closed for a couple of days because of a burst pipe, so there wouldn't be any shifts for him for two to three days at least. Not until the flooding issue is dealt with. Enviously, he taps through Arm's Instagram stories; the older male was away in Pattaya with Arc for a much-needed getaway. But judging from Arc's Instagram stories, it was mainly him trying to save Arm from accidentally drowning from the water activities, on top of taking care of his lightweight boyfriend. Sure, going outside was an option, only if he wanted to get burned by the merciless Bangkok heat. Gun sighs and stretches out on the sofa, eyeing the spread of takeaway that he had ordered from himself. Okay, so maybe there's a reason why he's so listless. Yotha was out-of-town as well accompanying his dad on a business trip, which is nothing out of the norm, but ever since the kiss they had shared a week ago...they've not really had the chance to sit down and talk about it. Mainly because Gun's been handling back-to-back shifts at the club with two of the dancers down with a bad case of food poisoning and Yotha had his own work affairs to see to.

He misses Yotha.

Right, that was why he had bought all these food - to eat his feelings away.

It's beginning to dawn on Gun that maybe he's clingier than he actually realizes. But it's also because Yotha encourages such behavior from him, so in a way...he's been spoilt by the male's constant presence. He's very much an acts-of-service type of person, which Gun greatly appreciates. He loves how he can just switch off when he's around the other, knowing that Yotha would handle it for him. Gun sighs again, briefly contemplating if he should maybe text or call Yotha. Ugh, but would he come off as too clingy since they had just talked on the phone yesterday? Seriously, what is this behavior, Gunyukhol? His phone vibrates atop of his chest, momentarily startling him, Yotha's name coming up on the screen. Letting out a little scream of excitement, Gun nearly drops the phone in his haste to answer the call, aiming to sound to nonchalant instead of a lovesick pining fool:

''Hi, Yotha.'' Even to Gun's own ears, he sounds breathless from excitement.

''I was going to surprise you. But it's a new security guard today-'' Yotha sounds visibly annoyed. ''-and he's not letting me up unless you come down.''

''Wait, hold up-'' Gun sits up, alert all of a sudden. ''You're downstairs? As in, you're here?'' He's already scrambling to his feet, mouthing a silent curse when he accidentally stubs his toe against the edge of the coffee table. ''I thought you wouldn't be back until Sunday.'' Motherf-, that hurts! Wincing, he bends down and rubs at his pinky toe.

''I told por I needed to urgently come home, so he let me wrap things up faster at my end. It's a bit hard to focus when you were whining so cutely yesterday.''

''I...I wasn't whining!'' Gun protests, hurriedly jamming his feet into a pair of slippers. Ha ha, he can deny it all he wants, but he had been a bit bolder than usual after a few beers. Gun vaguely remembers being a complete nuisance over the phone, asking Yotha if he'd be back anytime soon.

He doesn't even wait for the door to properly close before striding down the corridor to the elevator, impatiently jabbing at the button as if doing so would make it go faster. Ugh, hurry up.

''You said you missed me.''

''...it was a moment of weakness.'' What else could Gun say?

The elevator finally stops at his floor and he steps in, ''Give me two minutes. I'm coming down.'' The connection is disrupted as soon as the door slides close, Gun fervently praying that the lift wouldn't stop at any other floors until it reaches the ground.

The universe seems to be on his side. He finds a clearly annoyed Yotha waiting by the security booth and instead of hurtling himself at the male and hug him senseless like he wants to, Gun politely tells the new guard on duty that Yotha was his friend, penning down some details that the other might need. The entire ride up to his floor, Yotha can barely keep his hands to himself. Gun's just glad that no one's riding in the elevator with them.

Upstairs, the moment the door clicks shut behind them, Yotha's hugging him from behind. Gun feels the warm puffs of air against the shell of his ear, shivering when Yotha noses at the sensitive spot behind it.

''Missed you.''

Ugh, that voice.

''It's only been a week.'' Says the very person who's been acting like a pining lovesick fool for the entire week Yotha had been away.

He manages to twist in Yotha's hold until they're face-to-face, realizing that the other was sporting a very faint stubble. God, why was Yotha so ridiculously attractive? He wants to find out how scratchy it'd feel against his smooth-shaven skin, but files that thought for later.

''Are you expecting company?''

It takes Gun a moment to realize that Yotha's referring to the food on the coffee table.

''Not really. I was sad, so I over ordered.''

''Sad because you missed me?'' Ugh, this stupid smug asshole-

''Maybe.'' Gun says nonchantly, shrugging a shoulder, as if he's not fucking pleased by the fact that Yotha had rushed back for him.

Yotha's not buying the whole nonchalant act, but he lets it slide anyway. He manages to wriggle away for long enough to get an extra set of utensils and a plate for Yotha, joining the male on the couch. The concept of personal space might as well not exist for them with how close they're pressed against each other. Gun doesn't pry much, but Yotha feeds him enough information about what he had done for work the past couple of days - enough to keep him satisfied. He's just relieved that Yotha's not sporting any new injuries.

''Do you want to talk about it?'' Yotha asks all of a sudden, giving Gun a curious look. ''Last week.'' 

Oh.

''We should...right?'' Gun had thought that Yotha would sort of just...let it slide, or something. Or he'd be reluctant to talk about it. The fact that he had brought it up told Gun that the kiss must have been weighing heavy on his mind. ''But before that, is it okay if I ask you something?'' He had been deliberating over it for quite sometime and figured now would be the best time.

''Sure.'' There's no hesitance at Yotha's end, unlike the first few months where the other had been so much more closed off.

''Maybe it's none of my business.'' Gun begins uncertainly, but Yotha coaxes him to continue with a slight nod of his head. ''Can I...I mean, you briefly mentioned your ex before. Is it...alright if I ask what happened?'' Not because Gun wants to be nosy, but if Yotha and he was going to continue with, well, whatever this is...he wants to understand what Yotha needs in a partner. ''It's okay if you're not ready to tell me.'' He reassures, just in case. ''Actually, never mind, forget that I asked-''

''No, it's fine. It's in the past anyway. To put it simply - I was an absent and inattentive partner, so he cheated. We got together because we felt like we understood each other perfectly - he came from a broken family too. You could say I mistook him being able to understand me as love. Because we could relate to each other.''

''You think it wasn't love?'' Gun asks in a hushed tone.

''With what happened to my parents, it felt like I didn't know how it should feel. And because of the work, I wasn't around much. For some reason, I just couldn't bring myself to be honest about what I did for a living. Understandably, he got upset when I came back injured, especially when I didn't tell him why. Or if I had to go out of town for a couple of days. I caught him cheating, so I ended things.''

Gun regrets asking, because it feels like he's reopening old wounds.

''I was so angry. But he told me I didn't have a right to be upset at him cheating because I was so distant. I think I didn't realize then that I couldn't fully open myself up because I didn't love him. Or trust him.''

''I'm sorry.'' Gun whispers, lightly resting his chin against Yotha's shoulder as he comfortingly wraps his arms around the other. ''Whatever it is, cheating's never an option.''

''Gun.''

''Hm?''

''You're really special to me. I know that for sure.'' There's something else that he's holding himself back from saying.

''But you don't know if its love.'' Gun verbalizes it for him. ''Don't stress it, Yotha. There's no hurry for us to put a label on what we have.'' He reaches up, brushing a stray lock of hair away from Yotha's forehead, smiling sweetly at him. ''Is that what you're worried about?''

''I'm afraid you'll get tired of waiting.''

''Maybe don't make me wait for too long.'' Gun amends with a candid laugh. ''But I like what we have now. Maybe I'll want more in the future, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.'' He concludes, wanting Yotha to understand that he was content for now. ''If it doesn't end up being love, I'm not going to pretend that I'll be okay with it. I'll cry, a lot. Maybe eat my weight in ice-cream and say that I'm going to swear off men for good. But it's not something that can be forced, even if it hurts.''

''How is it that you always know the right things to say?'' 

''Because when you like someone-'' Delicately, Gun takes Yotha's chin between his fingers, pushing himself up slightly so that they're eye to eye. ''-you try to understand where they're coming from.'' On a whim, Gun bravely touches his lips to Yotha's in a gentle peck. ''And it just so happens that I like you. A lot. I'll admit that much.'' Slender well-manicured fingers comes to rest against Yotha's cheek, and he's filled with overwhelming surge of fondness for the dark-haired male sitting before him. ''I miss you when you're not around.'' He murmurs against Yotha's lips, nudging his nose against the male's. ''I think about you so much that it doesn't feel healthy.'' Anticipation lingers in the air, Yotha's gaze drifting down to Gun's slightly parted lips.

Gun doesn't wait for Yotha to ask. He takes the lead this time around, molding his lips against Yotha's. He keeps it light, as if testing the waters, but there's just something about being around the male that feels so intoxicating. Compared to their first kiss, it's unhurried this time around. He can taste the lingering smoke on Yotha's breath from when he had probably had a smoke earlier. The kiss doesn't stay chaste for long. Before Gun knows it, he's being pushed back against the armrest of the sofa with Yotha pressing him right up against it, his kisses hard and biting. Gun loves it, making a keening sound in the back of his throat when Yotha grips a fistful of his hair, white-hot excitement pooling in his belly. He's definitely going to grow his hair out for a bit more. 

The need to catch their breath forces them to pull away. Yotha looks like he's ready to devour Gun, his gaze dark and heavy with want and towering over Gun like this, holy shit, it's making him feel completely bone-deep weak. He's not going to deny that he finds Yotha's masculine energy so charismatic and alluring, dominating even without having to say a word. 

''Oh my god. It's really unfair that you look like this.'' Gun raises shaky hands up to Yotha's face, cupping his cheeks. 

Yotha exhales, and Gun can feel just how taut Yotha is as he runs his palms down Yotha's shoulders, feeling the muscles beneath the shirt that he has on. He takes one of Yotha's hands, guiding it to his bare thigh because Gun's just begging to be touched. He senses the other male's heightened need when Yotha's fingers digs into the flesh of his thigh, his palm hot against Gun's skin. Both of them don't exactly register how many times they go in for a kiss, each kiss messier than the previous, but the feeling of Yotha's light stubble scratching against Gun is driving him nuts. God, it's going to sting tomorrow, but nothing some moisturizer and aloe vera can't fix. Gun whines when Yotha grabs at him by the wrist, stopping him from undoing the buttons of his shirt.

''Yotha.''

''I really shouldn't.'' Yotha looks as if he's physically in pain from having to restrain himself.

''We're two very willing consenting adults.'' Gun points out. ''Are you telling me that we can kiss and flirt around, but sex is where you draw the line?''

Yotha chuckles at how petulant Gun sounds, comforting him with a gentle kiss to his eyebrow. ''It's not that I don't want it. Trust me, just being alone with you is a goddamn test of my patience. But at least let me wine and dine you properly.'' When Yotha leans in to kiss the petulant pout off Gun's lips, he places his palm over the other male's mouth, stopping him from getting closer.

''Okay, then you don't get to kiss me until you 'wine and dine' me, Yotha.'' Gun declares, using his other hand to playfully push Yotha off him, pursing his lips in an attempt not to laugh at the male's completely flabbergasted expression. 

''Wha-''

''No kissing.'' Gun repeats, forming an X with his hands. ''Hand holding is fine. Hugs, hmm, well, I'll consider that a yes too.''

''Gun.'' Yotha's groan permeates the air, clearly not expecting that his own words would backfire on him. ''Seriously?''

''Do I look like I'm kidding?'' His smile is saccharine-sweet, but it's clear that Gun means it. ''Wouldn't want to test your patience with a kiss.''

He's interested to see just how strong Yotha's resolve really is. Still, it's sweet how Yotha thinks that Gun should be wined and dined first before, you know, fucking him through the mattress - it's endearing. Gentlemanly, even. 

''Now, you'd better start thinking where you want to bring me for dinner.''

- / -

Chapter Text

''...and he said no! To...to this!'' Gun points at himself indignantly. ''Okay, fine, with good reason, but still!''

Done with his cute little rant, Gun picks up his fork and stabs at the fruit cake that he's sharing with Arm, spearing one of the peach slices. ''P'Arm, did you sleep with P'Arc before or after you guys started dating?''

''My child, I'm shy when you ask me these kind of questions.''

''You're literally only a year older than I am, P'.'' Gun says with a deadpan expression.

''Well, I feel like a parent who's raised you, so you really can't blame me. I might as well have carried you for nine months and given birth to you myself.'' Gun nearly spits out his cake,  Arm calmly taking a sip of his iced lychee americano. ''So now you're punishing Yotha?''

''Just giving him a taste of his own medicine. But I don't know how long I can stick with it though.'' Gun thinks back to earlier this morning before Yotha had left his apartment. ''Yotha's so cute when he's sulky. And I'm so weak when it comes to him.''

Arm's brows furrows as he tries to imagine a sulky Yotha, ''I never thought I'd hear Yotha and sulky in the same sentence ever. But-'' He points a finger at Gun. ''No dick, no kiss.'' He says it a bit too loudly, causing the couple at the next table to give them a weird glance. ''Huh, I guess it's true what they say about not judging a book by its cover. If you look at Yotha, you'd think he's the sort to just, you know.'' Arm makes a chomping gesture with his fingers.

''Tell me about it. I'd let him wreck me.'' Gun rests his chin on his palm, sighing dreamily.

''Where's the innocent Gun that I once knew?''

''I was never innocent.'' Gun grins at the older male, pushing the half-eaten cake towards Arm so that he could finish it. 

''That's true. You'd have to be some kind of way to match Yotha's freak.'' Arm's gaze strays towards the entrance of the cafe as he cuts a generous amount of cake with his fork. ''...aaaaaaand it looks like your personal bodyguard is here to pick you up.''

Gun glances up when Yotha stops at their table, offering him a dazzling smile - as if he hasn't spent a good fifteen minutes going into explicit detail to Arm as to how much he wants Yotha to ruin him.

He scoots over to make space for Yotha, the dark-haired male greeting Arm with a wai before he takes the offered seat. Yotha's arm is around his waist in an instant, and although it should be the norm by now with how often he does it, it still makes the butterflies in Gun's stomach go wild. Something about the gesture just screams mine.

They chat for a bit until Arc reaches to pick Arm up, the couples deciding that they'll go their separate ways once they exit the cafe.

''Is there anywhere else that you want to go?''

The question serves as a brief distraction and it takes a moment for Gun to register that Yotha's holding his hand. Now, they've been progressively touchy-feely for a while now, but hand-holding was a first. Gun doesn't understand why he's blushing furiously when he and Yotha have basically swapped saliva. Enthusiastically. 

''Doing whatever you please, I see.'' He smacks Yotha on the chest lightly with his free hand. 

Yotha doesn't let go of his hand even when they enter the clothing shop that's been on Gun's checklist for sometime. While there's not much that he'd wear on a daily basis, Gun still very much approves of the selection that he's browsing through. He could wear them for his shifts at the club; some of them so revealing that Gun has to make sure that his mom never goes through his closet should they ever come visit. He picks out a few pieces to try on, the staff helpfully directing him towards the changing rooms. He likes that there's no one in the area, meaning he could take his time changing and appraising the items in the mirror before deciding if it's a purchase worth making. One of it was a sheer black midriff top with a back zipper and no matter how flexible Gun thinks he is, he still ends up struggling trying to do up the zipper at the back. 

''Yotha.'' Gun pulls the curtain apart slightly, sticking his head out with an impish smile. ''Can you help me?''

Yotha didn't need to be asked twice.

Gun steps back just as Yotha enters the changing room, sliding the curtain shut behind them. Was Gun doing this on purpose? Perhaps. Petty could be his middle name, but it was also fun to see Yotha squirm. He turns around, confidently showing his back to Yotha.

''Can you help me do the zipper up?'' He asks over his shoulder, flashing what he hopes is an innocent smile.

There wasn't a need for Yotha to completely press himself against Gun's back, but he does so anyway. Gun eyes their reflections in the mirror, very much liking what he's seeing; while Gun has some muscles on him, he was mostly on the lean side from years of dancing. Yotha's shoulders were so much more defined from days spent lifting weights, and with Yotha standing behind him, Gun couldn't help but to feel small. Not in a bad way, but more of a - oh, Yotha's a really big boy, kind of way. Oh, he doesn't doubt that Yotha's big elsewhere too. Look, they've shared a bed and Gun would like to think that with the way Yotha's got a habit of sitting with his legs wide apart, he's definitely packing. Right, he's digressing.

The drag of the zipper coming up feels so loud in the small changing room. Big warm hands drift downwards to cup the sides of Gun's waist once Yotha's done with the zipper, the male blatantly eyeing Gun's reflection through the mirror.

Gun cocks his head to the side just so, showing off the slender column of his neck.

''Like what you see, Yotha?'' 

''I think I like it a little bit too much.'' Yotha tucks his face against Gun's neck, his light stubble making Gun giggle when it drags across his skin. ''Fuck, you're so-'' Gun tries not to make a sound when Yotha squeezes him tightly around the waist with both arms, hoping that the staff wouldn't come by the area. 

''What?'' He asks breathlessly.

Gun goes lax in the other male's arms when Yotha starts mouthing kisses down his neck. Holy shit. He's never considered his neck being one of his erogenous zone, but it turns out that Gun's learning something new about himself today. There's no reluctance coming from him when Yotha turns him around so that they're properly facing each other, Gun feeling his back touch the cold glass of the mirror a second later. He squirms at the ticklish sensation of Yotha kissing along the curve of his jaw, but it's not enough for him to stop the other male yet.

''What I wanted to say was-'' Yotha murmurs against his cheek. ''-you're so pretty.'' A soft kiss is pressed against the tip of Gun's nose. ''The prettiest.''

God, who'd knew he would be lucky enough to witness and deserve this side of Yotha? It's almost automatic how his eyelids drift close when Yotha leans in, only for Gun's eyes to snap open when he realizes that hey, Yotha's still on the 'no-kiss' list. The look of utter betrayal and disappointment on Yotha's face is almost comical when Gun slaps a palm over his the male's mouth, stopping in his tracks. He winces at how loud the slap sounds, profusely whispering his apology when Yotha rubs at his lips. He looks more pained over the fact that he's been denied a kiss rather than the fact that he had just been hit on the mouth.

''Gun, I'm genuinely dying here.''

''Don't be dramatic, Yotha. No one's ever died from being denied a kiss.'' Gun teases, twisting around so that Yotha can help him undo the zipper before he removes the top.

''I'll be the first one.'' The male grumbles under his breath, making quick work of pulling the zipper down. ''Gun-''

''You're paying for this, right?'' Yotha doesn't bother hiding his amusement at the bold question, nodding his head without even questioning how much the top costs. ''Thank you, Yotha. Now, stop looking at me like that.'' He nudges the male out of the dressing room before sharply pulling the curtain back into place.

Gunyukhol - 1

Yotha - 0

- / -

''Faifa.''

''Sure, come on in uninvited. It's not as if I'm busy with anything. Don't even bother to knock.''

Paying no need to Faifa's snarky comments, Yotha wordlessly drops himself into the two-seater sofa that's in Faifa's office, propping his feet up on the coffee table. Faifa eyes him with utter disdain, motioning for Yotha to put his feet back down.

''You don't come in here unless you're in trouble with por, or you pissed Gun off and you need my lovely brotherly advice.'' Faifa lowers the lid of his laptop, eyeing Yotha with slightly narrowed eyes. ''I don't think it's por. He was in a good mood before I left for work earlier. That means...your idiotic ass did something to piss your puppy off. Ooh, this is going to be good.'' He rubs his hands gleefully, getting out of his seat to come and stand in front of his desk instead, leaning against it. ''Spill.''

No point playing dumb now.

''Gun won't let me kiss him.''

''Uh huh, and that's the end of the world, how? Don't you have other bigger things to worry about? Like how por wants you to negotiate the Aeticus building contract with Khun Lerai? Fuck that up and por's going to kill you.''

''Maybe that'll put me out of my misery.'' Yotha mutters, crossing one leg over the other as he spreads his arms out against the backrest of the sofa. ''I'll even give him the gun so that he can shoot me.''

He might as well die with how he's barely managed to sneak in a kiss since Gun's declaration of 'no-kisses-until-I'm-wined-and-dined'. It was truly hell on Earth each time Gun squirmed away from one of his kisses, only offering his cheek or forehead. Imagine waking up with the cutest sleepy-eyed Gun right in his arms and not being able to kiss said person on the lips good morning? And it doesn't help that Gun seems intent on torturing Yotha; his sleep shorts were somehow shorter, skimpier. Normal-sized sleep shirts were replaced with oversized ones where the collar would slip off a shoulder. It came to the point where Yotha thought that he would have to flee from his own room when Gun bent down to pick something up and Yotha had a really nice view of what was underneath the shirt.

His patience was truly fraying at the edges.

''Fine, I'll bite: why won't he kiss you? What did you do to him this time?''

''Because I said no to us having sex.''

Faifa lets out a long sigh through his nose, regret etched on his face for even asking. ''I really shouldn't have asked. Why did I ask? Stupid.'' He slaps at his own lips, earning an eye roll from Yotha. 

''It's not that I don't want to.'' Yotha could care less about his brother's pinched expression of horror. ''But I don't want him to think that I just want him for that. Not when I can't give him a definite answer yet, or put a label to what we have now. I just...want to do things properly this time round.''

''O....kay. I've heard enough.'' Faifa holds a hand up. ''So the gist of it is that you want to be a gentleman, for once, and Gun just wants a proper dicking from you. Got it. Wait, on second thought, I don't. You guys kiss and do whatever the fuck it is that couples do, but sex is where you draw the line?''

Yotha frowns when Gun's exact words are parroted back at him, ''You sound just like Gun.''

''That's why we're best friends. Also, you're an idiot - the poor boy's practically offering himself on a silver platter for you and you said no? I hope Gun blue balls you to death, Yotha.''

''...why did I even come here?''

''Yotha, Gun's an adult. If he wanted to be wined and dined first, I don't think he would have let you play tonsil hockey with him.'' Faifa goes back to his seat behind the table, shaking his head in disbelief. ''How many times did you reject him?''

''Twice.'' 

''I'll stop by the temple to offer a prayer for you tomorrow morning.''

''Ugh, fuck off, Fai.''

- / -

It's Day 5 of the 'no kiss' rule.

Was Yotha keeping track? Absolutely.

Was he absolutely kiss-deprived and on the brink of absolute misery? Fucking totally.

Sticking to his own words, Yotha has a reservation for two for dinner at Saawaan, a two-star Michelin restaurant that came strongly recommended by Faifa, but that's not until next week because Gun's been slotted for back-to-back shifts lately. He presses the doorbell once and the door clicks open a few seconds later. He's confused when he realizes that Gun's not ready to leave for the club yet, glancing at his watch to check if he might have misread the time.

''I just called Fai to tell him I'd be slightly late today.'' Gun steps aside to allow Yotha entry into his apartment. ''I think I might have dropped my keys somewhere and I only realized after I came home from my yoga class. Had to get building management to send a locksmith down.''

Yotha's trying to pay attention, he really is, but all he can think of is how short Gun's denim shorts are. It's paired with a simple off-white crop top that rides up with each miniscule movement, and it's causing Yotha quite the distraction. He tries not to imagine how those legs would look wrapped tightly around his waist, or how it'd look propped up on Yotha's shoulders when he folds Gun in half-

''Yotha?''

''Huh?''

''My eyes are up here.'' 

Gun closes the distance between them, and out of habit, Yotha goes in for a kiss to say hello, but Gun is quick to offer his cheek instead. It doesn't bear the same satisfaction. Yotha rests his forehead against the male's temple, hooking his fingers into the hoops of Gun's denim shorts.

''You're killing me, Gun.'' He mouths against Gun's temple, breathing in the mingled scent of his dewy-scented shampoo and perspiration. 

''Let me just remind you that I'm not the one who insisted on this exercise of patience.'' The words are accompanied with a giggle that Yotha would classify as evil. ''I'm going to shower and then I'll get changed.'' But Yotha doesn't budge no matter how Gun attempts to wriggle away.

''One kiss.''

If someone told Yotha a year ago that he would be begging for a kiss, he would have punched the living daylights out of them.

''Just one.'' Yotha nuzzles his nose against Gun's cheek, hoping that it would break the other's resolve. He's not above pleading when it comes to Gunyukhol Jiraroj, it seems. ''Please.''

''Good try. But...'' Gun touches the tip of his forefinger and middle fingers to his lips before pressing it against Yotha's. ''...no. This is your punishment for actually saying no to me. It's your fault, you know. All these while you've never said 'no' to me, so you've spoilt me. Maybe next time you'll think twice before saying no to me, Yotha.'' He manages to peel Yotha's fingers away from the waistband of his shorts, stepping out of reach before the other can make a grab for him. ''Be a good boy and wait for me.''

Yotha swears that Gun's doing it on purpose when the other stretches his arms languidly above his shoulders while making his way to the bedroom, saying something about being sore from yoga. The hem of his shirt rides up higher, showing off the slim waist honed from years of dancing and time spent exercising. In all honesty, Yotha can't remember the last time he had actually uttered a prayer. He's not the religious sort, even if his dad is, but for the first time in a long while, Yotha genuinely prays for his sanity to remain intact. He tugs at the collar of his shirt, wondering if it's hotter than usual or it's just him. A quick check in the fridge for something cold has him realizing that Gun had stocked it up with a particular soya milk brand that Yotha favors. It's obvious that it's for him because Gun's not that fond of milk products, usually opting for something light on his stomach.

That aside, Yotha can and will deal with this. Besides, his pride's on the line too.

With all due respect, fuck your pride, the annoying voice in the back of his mind isn't exactly helping. 

Yotha's genuinely considering calling the restaurant to see if they might be able to secure him an earlier slot. 

''Yotha, you fucking dumbass.'' 

Gunyukhol - 34594864

Yotha - 0

- / -

Chapter Text

There's a first time for everything.

Yotha isn't ashamed to admit that this is the first time he's putting in this much effort into wooing someone. Flowers, gifts, planning dates and the whole nine yards. He's more used to, uh, using his polished pick-up skills at bars and clubs, with a whopping 85% success rate most of the time. It doesn't reflect so positively on him as a person since he hadn't been serious at all back then about getting to know those people. Besides, he had ended up ghosting all of them by providing them a fake number. 

No one will know this since Yotha's planning on taking this to the grave, but he's a whole tangled ball of nerves. Which isn't very Yotha-like at all. There's a cause for that, because today would mark his and Gun's first official date. An actual sit-down fancy dinner that Yotha's been stressing over for the past week, and the main source of Newton's and Faifa's gleeful teasing the past few days. Of course they wouldn't let him stress over it in peace since it's their first time seeing Yotha invest so much time and effort into someone. He wanted, needed, everything to go smoothly; which meant sending his beloved Porsche 911 GT3 for some much-needed pampering at the workshop, both inside and out. Yotha didn't need to hear Gun say it, but deep down, he knew the other male very much fancied interior of the sleek car. While waiting for his baby to be washed, cleaned and given the special treatment, Yotha might have gone through three to four cigarettes without even realizing it. He usually stuck to 1 to 2 per day, intent on cutting down since it was a massively unhealthy habit, but 3 to 4 meant he was really going through it. 

Obviously, Yotha had regretted it the moment he realized that he reeked of smoke. That meant making the trip home once more to change to a different outfit after painstakingly spending 1 to 2 hours before the car appointment deciding on what to wear. He wouldn't consider himself as someone immensely vain, but Yotha ended up changing his shirt three times, frustrated that nothing seemed to look right. Collar too starchy, the buttons too plain, or how the whole fit didn't seem right with the shirt tucked loosely into his tailored pants. After that dilemma was over, there was the headache of picking out the right pair of loafers to match with his pants from his ever-growing collection that Faifa had a habit of borrowing from (''...because I'm not spending 12,000 baht on a pair of shoes, Yotha. I'll just borrow yours.''). Don't even get Yotha started on picking out the right watch.

In an attempt to calm his nerves, Yotha drums his fingers against the steering wheel while his other hand fiddles with the knob of the car radio, trying to pick a suitable station to serve as background noise. Did he have everything? He glances at the passenger seat where there's a bouquet of assorted dried flowers, along with the compact Dior shopping bag with the intricately tied white bow holding a bag charm that he knows Gun's been eyeing. Maybe Yotha was going a bit overboard, but hey, there's no harm in wanting to impress Gun. Maybe there isn't a need for him to feel this jittery - Gun and he were close now, he could afford to be himself and relax a little. Still, for Yotha, he considers it a massive step forward for someone who's had quite the crappy luck in the love department. Divorced parents, cheated on by his ex-partner - but there was something Faifa had once told Yotha that would always stick with him:

''Yotha, after a certain age, you're no longer the product of your environment on how you were raised. It's a personal choice to live the way you do.''

It's easier said than done, especially when his mother's involved.

When it comes to Gun, it's a whole different ball game altogether. He just has to make sure that he doesn't self-sabotage and fuck things up.

Yotha steps out of the car and smooths down his shirt before briefly ducking down to check his hair in the side mirror. He fusses over the strands for a bit, straightening up when he spots Gun making his way out of the elevator that leads to the basement carpark. It's kind of unfair how Gun's capable of pulling off every single kind of look; casual on his off days, provocative when he's working and now, dressed in silk-like cream dress shirt and a cropped fitted suit jacket over it, it's as if he's stepped out of an actual magazine pictorial. Yotha simply can't stop staring. He hadn't told Gun where they'd be dining in exact, simply telling the other that he should dress smart-casual at least.

''Wow.'' 

The one-word comment has Gun trying hard to hide his wide smile, the thin bracelets around his bony wrist tinkling with each movement. Gun's standing close enough now that Yotha can see the faint shimmer of clear gloss coating his lips, along with the uptick curl of his lasher, further accentuated by a light coat of what he assumes is mascara. The tables are turned when Yotha finds himself being subjected to what he hopes is a very appreciative once over.

''Hm, I've got to say...'' Gun muses thoughtfully, pulling back slightly as if to observe Yotha at a wider angle. ''You're really handsome from all angles, Yotha.''

It's now Yotha's turn to struggle with being complimented.

''You're crazy.'' He's just not used to it.

''What? It's true.'' Gun's intent on making him blush, it seems. ''You're really handsome.'' He's so brazen with his compliment that Yotha wants to kiss that naughty smile off Gun's lips.

''Gun.'' Exasperated, but still fond, Yotha's unable to resist squishing the male's soft cheeks between his fingers. ''Stop it. I'm embarassed enough as it is.''

''Fine.'' The male relents, and Yotha gives him a questioning look when Gun leans in. ''Do you like my outfit, Yotha?''

''Of course.''

''Good, but you should know that I look even better out of it.'' Gun whispers in his ear before he draws back with the most shameless smile ever, eyes twinkling with pure mischief. ''Just something for you to think about while we're having dinner.'' He pats Yotha on the chest, fingers brushing against the bare skin where Yotha has left the top two buttons of his shirt undone.

It would be so easy to throw in the towel, but Yotha's clinging on to...well, he doesn't know what the hell he's clinging on. 

''Oh.'' Gun lets out a soft sound of delight when he finds the flowers and the gift bag on the passenger seat. ''You really know how to spoil your date, Yotha.'' He catches a clear whiff of Gun's cologne when he leans in to express his thanks - a strong hint of vanilla mixed with an undertone of something floral, making Yotha want to just give in the urge to press his face against Gun's neck to inhale his fill of it. 

''Surely there's another way that you can thank me?'' 

Hey, there's no harm trying his luck.

''Well, with all the effort that you've put in lately, I suppose I could take pity on you.''

Those words might as well feel like the sweet, sweet sound of Yotha's knuckles coming into contact with the face of his enemy. He tries to play it cool, as cool as he can for someone who's been kiss-deprived for what he feels is the longest time. Getting punched in the nose would probably hurt less.

''But-'' Gun holds a finger up against Yotha's lips. ''-just one kiss.''

''Just one.'' 

At this rate, Yotha would agree to anything. He's long past the point of denying that he's so ridiculously down bad for Gun who's got Yotha wrapped around his pinky finger. 

''Poor Yotha, you've been so patient, haven't you?'' It should be embarrassing to be cooed at by Gun, but Yotha is just a silly fool who's head over heels with this sunshine of the world - bad boy persona be damned.

The first touch of Gun's silken lips against Yotha's brings about a feeling like no other. He pushes down the urge to deepen it, keeping the touches light and gentle. Yotha keeps his hands by his side, afraid that if he touches any part of Gun, he'll lose all semblance of any self-restraint. 

''It's okay.'' Gun murmurs against his lips, graceful fingers guiding both of Yotha's hand up to his waist.

Yotha barely registers that Gun's own hands are trembling as well, as if he's trying to keep himself in check. Both of them smile as their noses nudge, uncaring of the fact that they were in the carpark basement where others could see them. 

''Maybe one more kiss wouldn't hurt.'' Gun has his fingers curled around the sides of Yotha's shirt as if trying to stop himself from being swept away by a simple kiss.

''Don't need to tell me twice.''

It's all the permission Yotha needs to go all out this time around, endless days of pent-up frustration flowing loose. He murmurs an apology when their teeth clacks painfully, but Gun pays it no mind, warm hands gliding up the expanse of Yotha's chest, before they come to meet behind his nape where he laces his fingers together. He teases the tip of his tongue against Gun's cherry-scented lips, white-heat blooming pit in the belly when Gun parts them slightly. Fuck, Yotha wanted to savor this moment - wanted to drink in the small delicious sounds Gun was unconsciously making, and Yotha should stop. But instead, he licks into Gun's mouth where he tastes the sharp hint of a mint that Gun must have chewed on earlier, bold hands drifting lower until he's firmly cupping the male's ass through the material of his pants. He registers the sharp honk of a car as it drives past to exit the carpark, but any thought of reacting to it disappears, choosing to focus on the breathy pants from Gun that's making all the blood run south. Gun tips his head back with a willing sigh when Yotha begins nosing along the column of his neck, his fingers tousling the strands of Yotha's styled hair. Maybe it was the sheer adrenaline of them being completely inappropriate in a public setting, or the way Gun's urging him on with how his breath hitches, but Yotha gets carried away without meaning to - lips latching on to a spot that he knows Gun finds sensitive. Teeth breaks delicate skin and Yotha sucks in a moment of pure impulse.

''Oh god, Yotha-'' The way Gun's slurring his name brings Yotha back to reality and it dawns on him then that fuck, he had sucked a goddamn mark on Gun's neck.

''Fuck.'' Yotha gently thumbs at the vivid mark, slight panic welling up in him because Gun looks absolutely teary-eyed. ''Fuck, Gun. I'm so fucking sorry-''

''Yotha, why are you apologizing? That was single-handedly-'' Gun shivers at the sensation of Yotha's thumb brushing against the blossoming red mark. ''-the hottest thing ever. Holy shit.'' Gun starts laughing, bonelessly leaning his weight against the side of the car, looking completely blissed out. ''Okay, just-'' Gun fans at his face, cheeks dusted a light pink. ''Give me a few minutes and I'm good to go.'' His gaze strays downwards to the front of Yotha's pants. ''Well, looks like you need a couple of minutes too.''

Yeah, no way that would go unnoticed.

''Don't need to look so embarassed, Yotha. I'd be more worried if you didn't have a hard-on from groping me in public.''

Yotha barks out a laugh, shaking his head at just how brazenly funny Gun can be when he speaks his mind. Gun steps to the side to admire the hickey using the side mirror, gingerly pressing on it with the tip of his finger, ''Oh, I'm definitely not covering this up.''

- / -

Seated across one another, Yotha and Gun can barely look at each other without breaking out into a grin. He schools his expression into that of indifference when the immaculately dressed waiter stops by their table to politely enquire about their choice of wine for the 11-course meal. Yotha skims through the selection and opts for the wine-pairing option instead, believing that Gun would find it so much more enjoyable if he could try the different flavors. 

''When I told you to start thinking where to bring me to eat, I didn't mean a two-Michelin star restaurant, Yotha.'' Gun chastises him in a hushed tone. ''I would have been happy eating khao soi and pad see ew at the place near my house.''

''Maybe I'm showing off a little.''

Gun sticks his tongue out in return, but it's obvious that he's enjoying the ambience and the seats that they've been given. It's definitely a bit more upscale compared to some of the restaurants that Yotha's frequented with both his dad and Faifa, the interior decor tipping towards extravagance, yet nothing too garish. Yotha watches as Gun absent-mindedly fiddles with the collar of his shirt, his fingers occasionally drifting towards the bruise that he had decided to cover up with some concealer right before entering. While Yotha had been a bit disappointed, Gun had pointed out it that stepping into such a fine place with a hickey didn't seem like proper fine-dining etiquette. 

''Are you doing anything this weekend?'' Yotha asks, hoping that it would distract him from blatantly eyeing Gun.

''Uhh, let's see...'' Gun mentally runs through his schedule, squinting as if doing so would help him remember better. ''I think I don't have any shifts from tomorrow until next Monday. I've been taking back to back shifts since P'Aan left. Is there something that you want to do over the weekends?''

''It's our dad's birthday this Saturday, and we throw him a party every year at home. He's really big on socializing, so it's sort of a big thing. He's asking if you'll come and join us. Well, I want you there too, of course.'' He had been hesitant about asking, not because he didn't want Gun there, but because he was mostly worried about Gun feeling pressured about being around guests that were part of the same line of business as Yotha's family.

''Really? Are you sure it's okay? I mean, I've only met him once.'' 

''Gun, he was going to personally give you a call to extend the invitation.'' Yotha had stepped in right there and then, assuring the older male that he would definitely ask Gun.

''Oh.'' Gun visibly brightens up, as if relieved that Yotha's dad has taken a liking to him. ''Then, in that case, I'll definitely make time to attend the party.'' 

Yotha's no food connoisseur, but as they're continuously served the different intricately plated dishes throughout the mean, he can see why Saawan had come highly recommended by Faifa. Gun grows progressively tipsier with each glass of wine that he samples, Yotha opting to stick to one glass since he wants to be sober enough to take care of the other. It's the first time Yotha has seen Gun this buzzed, finding it cute how he's completely flushed and how he seems to find everything giggle-worthy. By the time Yotha settles the bill with a very generous tip for the top-notch service, Gun looks like he's ready to doze off. At the entrance, Yotha thanks the valet staff when his car's brought around, delicately guiding Gun into the passenger seat before strapping him in. He chuckles when Gun drunkenly bops him on the nose. 

''Yothaaaaaaaaa.'' An inebriated Gun beams at him as soon as he gets into the driver's seat. ''Tonight was so so so so so fuuuuuuun. And-'' Gun reaches over to pinch him on the cheek. ''-you're soooooooooooo handsome. Everyoneeeeeee was looking at you. But!'' Yotha can barely control his laughter when Gun starts squeezing his cheeks roughly. ''You're all mine, heh.'' He lets out a little hiccup. ''Lucky me.''

''If you're going to be this cute when drunk, I'm going to have a problem letting you drink with others.''

It turns out that Gun's a sleepy drunk too. He knocks out for the entirety of the ride home up until Yotha's parks his car in the basement carpark once more. It's a bit of a struggle, but he manages to hold the bouquet and gift bag in one hand, the other hand supporting Gun's waist as he guides the bleary-eyed male into the elevator and all the way up to his apartment. Inside, a sweaty Yotha finally manages to catch his breath just as Gun slumps against him, mumbling something against Yotha's shoulder.

''Hm?''

''I said-'' Gun wriggles until he's resting his chin against Yotha's shoulder, blinking up drowsily at him. ''-I wore something pretty for you tonight.''

''I know - you look very pretty tonight.'' He kisses the top of Gun's head, wondering if it's possible for someone to be so......fucking adorable.

''No, you're not-'' Gun frowns at him, lips forming a tempting kissable pout. ''-getting it.'' Clumsily, as if his sluggish fingers wouldn't cooperate, Gun starts pulling the shirt tails that's tucked into the waistband of his pants. ''I'm wearing something pretty for you on the inside.'' It's accompanied with a drunken snicker.

''Gun, no.'' Panicking, Yotha firmly grabs both of Gun's hands, stopping him from undressing. ''Baby-'' The term of endearment slips out naturally without him even realizing it. ''-you're drunk. Come on, let's get your socks off and we'll get you into bed.''

''But Yotha, I wanna show you!'' It's futile when Yotha's sober and so much more stronger.

Yotha's going to have to start making more sincere prayers if he wants to maintain his sanity. It would be a lie to say that he's not tempted by what's hidden under Gun's shirt, but Yotha's not going there. Firmly, he herds Gun towards the neatly made bed, sitting him down at the edge before sinking down to his knees to help the male with his socks.

''You're so nice to me, Yotha.'' It's hilarious how Gun goes from trying to undress to petting Yotha on the head within mere seconds. ''Everyone says you're so-'' He yawns widely. ''-scary.'' Yotha gets the first sock off and Gun starts wriggling his toes, trying to fight Yotha from taking off the other sock. He manages to wrestle it off Gun's foot, nearly getting a kick to the face when the male suddenly swings his feet up and stretches out comfortably on the bed. ''Yotha, you'll stay tonight, right? I always sleep better when you're around.''

''Of course.'' Yotha shrugs off his suit jacket and places it at the end of the bed, realizing just how much he's perspiring from handling one Gunyukhol.

''Yay.'' Gun curls over onto his side, comfortably nuzzling his face against the pillow. ''G'night, Yotha.''

''Don't have nightmares.'' He leans down and kisses Gun on the forehead, giving the male's nape a gentle stroke.

''S'okay.'' Gun slurs, drifting away from consciousness. ''You're always there to save me.''

- / -

Chapter Text

It's Gun choking on his own saliva that wakes him up, along with the scratchy dryness of his throat that tells him that he's had far too much to drink. Refusing to fully open his eyes yet, Gun stretches an arm out and blindly pats for his phone which he finds on the bedside table. He cracks an eye open just as he presses the side button for the home screen to light up, swearing at the sudden burst of brightness. 3:03am. God, he's so thirsty. Half-awake at this rate, Gun sluggishly sits up and remains motionless on the bed for ten seconds. Oh right, he had drunk all that wine during dinner yesterday, even though he had really wanted to pace himself from consuming too much.

Gun looks down at himself, still clad in yesterday's shirt and pants, sans the blazer. He then glances over towards the bed side table, spotting near the empty bottle of makeup remover and the crumpled cotton square pieces next to it. Yotha, Gun thinks fondly to himself, looking over at the other side of the bed where the male remains fast asleep. He was still in yesterday's clothes as well, one foot sticking out from under the blanket and an arm hanging off the bed, face turned to the side. Gun makes a mental note to start making space in his wardrobe so that Yotha can keep some of his stuff around for the nights that he sleeps over. None of Gun's clothes would ever fit Yotha and he likes the idea of the other male having his things over in Gun's personal space.

Sharing a bed with Yotha was so comforting in so many ways. Back then, it was as if there was an imaginary line in the centre of the bed that none of them would cross, keeping to their own sides. Gradually, as they became closer and started spending the nights over at each other's places, the space slowly grew non-existent. He'd wake up startled from a nightmare and find Yotha mere inches away from him and Gun found that extremely comforting. He always found himself calming down so much faster whenever Yotha was around. Even if Yotha's presence wasn't enough to completely deter the nightmares, it did feel as if the nightmares couldn't fully consume him.

Oh, right- water.

Gun groggily crawls off the bed and shucks off his shirt and pants, absent-mindedly grabbing a clean oversized t-shirt from the stack of neatly folded clothes sitting on his vanity chair. Without even bothering to switch on the lights, he blindly makes his way to the kitchen when he grabs a bottle of water from the fridge. The cold liquid sliding down his throat feels heavenly, somewhat alleviating the pounding he's beginning to feel in his temples. Leaving the bottle on the counter, he makes his way back to the bedroom and crawls into bed, immediately burrowing close against Yotha's side. 

''....everything okay?'' Comes the warm sleep-hoarse voice next to him.

All the jostling must have woken Yotha up.

''Thirsty.'' Gun's ready to fall back asleep, curling up against the other male's side comfortably just as Yotha rolls over to his side, drawing Gun into his arms.

''Mm.'' Yotha hums sleepily, tucking Gun's head under his chin. 

This is what it must feel like to be safe.

- / -

Yotha almost forgets about what Gun had revealed as a result of his drunken stupor yesterday night. He's disappointed to find Gun's side of the bed empty when he wakes up, but the feeling doesn't last long when the male enters the bedroom, two mugs in hand which he very carefully places on the bedside table.

''Peppermint tea. For a hangover. My hangover, specifically.''

He's barely digesting Gun's words, very much transfixed on what he's wearing instead. 

''I wore something pretty for you on the inside.''

Yotha can only describe it as indecent in a very pretty way. Gun's wearing what seems to be a fitting pair of sheer lace boxer shorts with a high slit on both sides. The material's short enough that it covers what needs to be covered at the back. Same with the front - it's opaque where it's covering the most sensitive area, but the rest of it is see-through lace. The t-shirt that Gun's wearing isn't long enough to obscure those shorts from Yotha, who's currently short-circuiting at the moment. Perhaps it's Yotha's personal preference, but there was just something alluring about the black sheer lace contrasting against Gun's milky skin. The lower half of his body seems to be on board as well.

''Do you like it?'' Yotha's brain threatens to go offline when Gun crawls onto the bed and seamlessly straddles him, sporting an expression that's far too cheeky for someone with a hangover. ''There was one with white ribbons on the side, but I was worried it'd be a bit too much for you.''

A bare-faced confident Gunyukhol shouldn't be so ridiculously sexy at eight in the morning. 

''Do you like it?'' Gun asks again, this time purposely resting his ass against where the front of Yotha's pants was becoming increasingly tight with all the blood rushing downwards, leaving none for his brain to formulate a coherent answer.

''So fucking much.'' 

''I'm glad - I chose black since it's your favorite color.'' The other male says conversationally, as if he's not sitting on Yotha's crotch in the shortest tiniest pair of shorts he's managed to fit into. ''Panties would have been a bit too uncomfortable to wear throughout the whole dinner.'' He's casually dropping this information as if he's discussing the goddamn weather outside. Yotha doesn't think he even wants to imagine Gun in something that's sexier than this, because then, he's afraid it's going to be over embarrassingly quick for him. 

He thinks of yesterday night; how Gun had sat across him, (not so) innocently hiding the fact that he had something so tasteful underneath. Yotha can’t decide if he regrets suggesting the wine pairing, because if Gun had been sober….Yotha would have shown just how much he appreciated Gun’s effort of picking something out with him in mind.

Yotha can only watch with rapt attention as Gun undoes the button of his pants, slender fingers dragging the silver zipper down tooth by tooth, revealing the waistband of his grey boxer briefs. Now that he's brought Gun out for a proper dinner, Yotha doesn't have any excuse to stop him. Nor does he plan on stopping Gun anymore. He's finally throwing in the towel that's been wrung dry from practicing extreme self-restraint, thank you very much. 

''Oh.'' Gun's cheshire-like smile grows increasingly wider as he tugs Yotha's pants down slightly. ''I knew you'd be a big boy, Yotha.''

''Gun.'' Yotha huffs out a disbelieving laugh at Gun's brazen comment. ''Does that mean that you've been looking then?''

''Maybe.'' Gun follows it up with a shameless wink, stretching his lithe body forward so that he's resting his weight on top of Yotha, fingers skimming against the pronounced bulge that's tenting the front of the male's briefs. ''...and you're not even fully erect yet.'' The color rises high on Gun's cheeks, his initially-tentative touches getting progressively bolder until he's got Yotha bucking up against his palm.

Look, Yotha's no stranger to his right hand and a bottle of lube when he needs some form of release, but knowing that it's Gun that's touching him is on a whole other level of maddeningly arousing. Gun squeezes, his grin bordering on devilish at the shuttered expression of ecstasy on Yotha's face. Both of them meet each other in the middle to share an eager kiss, Yotha tasting the lingering hint of toothpaste and peppermint on the male's tongue. He doesn't know just where to touch first, hands skimming up Gun's sides, rucking his shirt up to admire his sinewy frame. He feels the scrape of teeth against his bottom lip before Gun suckles on it, amplifying the kiss to something so much more heated. 

''You shouldn't be allowed to be this pretty.'' It's unfair.

Lips kiss-swollen, glossy from a faint sheen of saliva, eyes half-lidded and with a smile so coquettish that it's making Yotha feel like mush. With a smirk, Gun pushes Yotha back down onto the bed, splaying his palm against the centre of his chest before sliding it lower, lower, lower before dainty fingers curls around the solid girth of Yotha's cock. It's a stark reminder that he's still fully clothed with his briefs and pants still bunched around his thighs, but something about it is just so frustratingly arousing.

''How do you like it, Yotha?'' Gun cocks his head to the side, the tip of his finger gliding over the slit.

''Shit.'' Yotha's hips bucks off the bed, fingers grappling at the wrinkled bedsheets. ''I- what was the question?''

Gun rubs the precum that's pooling at the slit with the pad of his finger, and Yotha nearly swears when the little troublemaker gently scrapes his fingernail against the underside. ''Gun, fuck-''

''I asked - how do you like it, Yotha? When you get yourself off?'' Gun lowers himself down once more, touching his lips to the shell of Yotha's ear, his voice a tantalizing murmur. ''Are you the kind to drag it out? Bring yourself over to the edge repeatedly until you can't take it anymore? Or do you like it hard and fast?''

''Yes?'' He would deny the sound that spills past his lips when Gun grips him just right - firm, but not to the point where it's enough to hurt him, stroking downwards with a gentle twist of his wrist. It's a bit too dry for Yotha's liking, but hey, he's got other things to worry about - like not spilling all over Gun's fingers within minutes.

''That's not really an answer, Yotha.''

''Shit, I don't know, Gun. All the blood's gone down there, so you can't blame me for sounding very stupid right now.''

''Well, you better start thinking how you want it.'' Gun whispers against the shell of his ear, sounding as if he's trying not to let his amusement get the better of him. ''Because my sister's stopping by in fifteen minutes to bring me out for breakfast. Lotion's in the top drawer of the side table, by the way.''

''Wha-?'' 

The little devil kisses Yotha on the nose and climbs off him, clambering off the bed and heading towards his wardrobe.

''Gun.'' 

''What?'' 

''...this is payback, isn't it?'' 

''No...?'' But Yotha's not buying it, not when Gun's voice is pitched higher than usual. ''Of course not, Yotha. I'm not that petty. Do you really think I'm that sort of person?'' He's not falling for the whole innocent act, not when Gun's looking so satisfied with himself for managing to pull one over Yotha. ''Seriously, I'd love for you to meet P'Ploy, but you know - not like this.''

Yotha rolls over onto his front and buries his face into the pillow, muffling a very colorful swear word into it.

- / -

A few pumps of lotion, his right hand, a very unsatisfying wank and a quick shower after that, Yotha tries his best not to fidget too much in front of Gun's sister in the living room. He doesn't have a spare change of clothes, so Gun had tried his best to iron the wrinkles in his shirt and pats while Yotha had been, er, occupied in the bathroom. Look, it's not easy to be sitting in front of Gun's sister considering that he's been fantasizing about all the inappropriate things he wants to do to her brother.

''P'Kloy, this is Yotha. He's a close friend from work.'' Gun carries on with the introductions first. 

She gives him a scrutinizing once over. Though not exactly unfriendly, there was a definite air to her that told Yotha she was a protective older sibling. Seemingly satisfied with what she's seen, Kloy’s demeanour changes to something friendlier. Yotha finds himself relaxing as well, not realizing how taut his shoulders are with tension.

''Hm, you're exactly Gun's type. So much better looking than his annoying ex-boyfriend. What was his name again? Hira? Hiban?''

''P'Kloy!'' Gun hisses, nudging his knee against his sister's. ''Yotha doesn't need to know that. It's Hiran, by the way.''

Kloy shrugs her shoulders dismissively, ''Who cares? Do you want to join us for breakfast, Yotha?''

He gives her a polite shake of his head in return, ''I'd love to, but I should be heading back home.''

''Oh?'' Her eyebrow shoots up in obvious interest. ''You stayed the night then?''

''Alright, we're done here.'' Gun laughs nervously, getting out of his seat and pulling Yotha out of his by pulling at his hands. ''Yotha's a really busy person.'' He starts herding Yotha towards the front door, fumbling with the handle. To Yotha, he whispers, ''I'll call you after I'm done.''

''Sure. By the way-'' Yotha leans in casually, making sure not keep his voice lowered so as to keep what he's about to say between them. ''I'm going to make sure you regret pulling that stunt on me, Gun. Because now that I've properly brought you out for dinner, I have no reason to hold myself back any further.'' He pulls away with a casual smile, extending his goodbye to Kloy at the same time.

Gun's a whole shade of red right to the tip of his ears, ''Yotha-'' He steps outside, glancing over his shoulder to make sure that the door's closed behind him and that Kloy wouldn't catch on as to what's going on. 

''Don't say I didn't warn you, beagle.'' 

- / -

Chapter Text

''Wow, you weren't kidding when you said it was going to be big party.''

It's not often that Gun gets to spot so many high-performance cars in one sitting along the street. From where he's seated inside Yotha's car, Gun marvels at each sleek vehicle, mentally trying to come to terms with the fact that some of these bad boys made his monthly paycheck seem like peanuts. Huh, not even peanuts - maybe just the outer shell of the nuts, at this rate.

''Newton went all out this year.'' Yotha agrees, mindfully steering his Porsche into the lit driveway of the sprawling family house. ''It's dad's 60th, and he invited slightly more people since he's officially announcing his retirement from the business tonight.''

Alarmed by this piece of news, Gun whips his head towards Yotha. ''Wait, are you sure I should even be here then? It feels like it's something personal for your family.'' 

The car comes to a complete stop and Yotha shifts the gear selector to park before pressing his thumb against the 'Power' button of the car to kill the engine. ''I want you to be here with me. Being at these kind of events always makes me uncomfortable.'' 

''Does that mean having me around makes it so much more bearable?''

''Yes.'' Gun remains still while Yotha reaches over to unclip the seatbelt for him. ''But, I also want you to know if you're not comfortable being around so many people, we can leave right now.''

The way Gun sees it, this was Yotha's way of showing Gun that he was ready to allow him a full look into his life. Not just the surface of what Yotha wants him to see, but everything that was in his world. At the same time, the way he phrases it tells Gun that he's got the option to opt out if he's not ready yet. He can't imagine the courage it must have taken for Yotha to take this huge step of opening his world up to someone, seeing the vulnerability behind Yotha's carefully crafted expression of indifference. 

''Come on.'' Gun urges softly, tapping Yotha on the thigh once. ''Let's not keep him waiting.''

The relief on Yotha's face doesn't go unnoticed, the male mirroring Gun's smile before both of them step out of the car where they're immediately greeted by the buzz of chatter and activity going on inside. There were guests milling about outside as well, a handful of them enjoying a smoke or two with their companions while engaging in business or idle chatter. Gun hopes that he's not underdressed, glancing down at the combination of white line pants and a grey ribbed top with the strings criss-crossed at the front, showing a teasing glimpse of bare skin, but nothing that would come off as too indecent. He's hesitant to take the first step towards the house, offering Yotha a grateful look when the others comes to stand by his side, intimately placing a hand against the small of Gun's back.

''It's okay. I won't leave your side.''

Newton had clearly spared no expense whatsoever for the party. Hired waitstaff in identical black-and-white uniforms were walking around inside with trays full of bubbly champagne and appetizers, all of it so very fancy that it immediately made Gun feel out of place. Hell, there was even an orchestral live band in the corner of the spacious main living room, filling the air with the melodious sound of the instruments combined. Gun tucks himself closer against Yotha's side, wondering if the guests here could gauge that he wasn't one of them. He observes the surroundings, noting that most of the attendees seemed to be in the same age range as Yotha's dad. There were younger people as well, most likely around Gun's age or maybe just a bit older, and he couldn't help but to notice that Yotha was getting a lot of stares. Yotha was doing a great job of ignoring it, steering Gun through the crowd and not stopping long enough for anyone to strike up a conversation with them.

''Is there a reason why everyone's looking at you?''

''Because I rarely show my face at these parties.'' Yotha admits with a straight face. ''I usually just pass pôr his gift, stick around for twenty minutes and then hide out in my bedroom until the while thing ends. Besides, it's also the first time I brought someone with me.'' As if Gun wasn't self-conscious enough. ''I think he's probably in his study - we'll go say hi to him first before the cake cutting.'' Eager to get away from the interested looks thrown their way, Gun readily agrees, content to let Yotha lead the way towards another part of the house where the study is located.

To this day, even if Gun has stayed more than than he could count, it still boggles his mind how massive the family house is. It's not as if he goes around poking his nose into places where it doesn't belong. but it does allow him a glimpse into how rich the family is. Even using the word 'rich' would be an understatement.

He finds himself being led towards the study, waiting dutifully as Yotha lightly knocks twice on the door before pushing it open. He steps in hesitantly after Yotha, taking in the dark green and brown hues of the room while admiring the display shelves filled with what seems like intricate artsy displays that Gun can't quite comprehend. Gun feels more at ease when the male behind the desk greets him with an easy-going smile, making him believe that his presence is truly welcomed.

''Gun, I'm glad you could make it.''

''Of course, pôr.'' Yotha's dad had insisted that Gun address him as such instead of 'uncle', citing that anyone that Yotha likes enough to actually bring home should be considered as family. ''Happy 60th birthday.'' With a shy smile, he holds out the gift in his hand; a bottle of single malt whisky that he had personally picked out from Prakaan , an exclusive brand that specializes in whisky. ''I remember you mentioned before that you love whisky. This one came highly recommended.'' He's not a huge fan of whisky, but had done some extensive research on his end before purchasing the bottle. 

''Gun, you really shouldn't have gone to this trouble.'' The male chastises, but he's clearly delighted by the thoughtful gift, admiring the bottle before he carefully places it down in the center of the table. ''There's no need to buy me expensive gifts next time. I'd rather you come and keep me company here when you have the time.''

''Wow, that's not what you said when I passed you my gift, pôr.''

''Because you're my son.'' Turning back to Gun, Yotha's dad points a finger towards his son. ''Has he been treating you well, Gun? Tell pôr if he gives you a hard time and I'll deal with him for you.''

Gun bites the inside of his cheek so he doesn't end up laughing at how affronted Yotha looks at his dad's own words. ''Well...'' He pretends not to notice Yotha's playfully narrowed eyes, acting as if he's truly giving the question some thought. ''....he's doing great so far, pôr. Yotha takes really good care of me.''

There's a sharp knock on the door and Faifa pops his head in, ''Pôr, are you ready?''

''In a bit, Fai. I need to have a few words with Yotha first.''

Yotha looks over at his brother, ''Fai, I'll leave Gun to you and Wine first.'' Then, he turns to Gun and gives his hand a brief reassuring squeeze. ''I'll come look for you once I'm done.''

''Don't look so worried, brother dear. We'll take good care of him.''

''You mean Wine will take good care of him.''

- / -

''Yotha - you've taken over the work for quite some time now. How do you find it?''

He's unable to gauge as to why his dad is asking him when it's been about a year and a half since Yotha has learned the ropes from him. But with his dad, it's always so much better to be honest. Yotha settles down into one of the chairs just as his dad does the same, taking his own seat behind the table.

''It's work.'' There wasn't a need to elaborate since his dad would know better than anyone else what it's like. 

Yotha knows by now that while his dad might not agree with how he deals with certain problems, his dad hasn't said a word yet because he’s been doing a more than decent job in keeping everything afloat and running.

''You know by now that I'm officially announcing my retirement at the party tonight. The reason I'm asking is because when you first decided to take over, you didn't have someone with you.'' Yotha thinks he's beginning to understand where this conversation is headed. ''But now...there's Gun in the picture. I know I was the one who insisted on inviting him, but knowing you...if you weren't ready, he wouldn't be here tonight.'' His dad gives him a long searching look, the lines around the corner of his eyes creasing slightly. ''I like him a lot, Yotha. He doesn't take any shit from you.''

Yotha finds himself smiling at his dad's accurate observation of Gun, nodding his head in agreement.

''I need you to be sure that this is what you really want to do - the work, that is. You know better than anyone else by now that it poses some degree of danger to you and the people that you love. Do you see where I'm going with this?''

''I do.'' He can see why his dad might be concerned. He didn't want to allow any chances of history repeating itself, but to Yotha this time round. ''Gun knows how I feel about the work. I...'' Talking extensively about his feelings has never been Yotha's forte, not when he used to be the kind to avoid difficult conversations. ''Pôr, have you ever...you know that gut feeling you get sometimes? The one that you just can't ignore because you know it's right? That's how I feel about Gun. Even if I tell myself that I want to take my time...I just know it's him.''

''That's all I need to know, Yotha.'' His dad smiles at him - warm and fatherly. ''I'm not here to dictate if it's love or not, especially when I'm not the best example. But I can definitely tell you that having the right person will bring you even greater achievements, son.''

- / -

Gun is so used to a version of Yotha that only he is privy to that it slips his mind just how cold and indifferent Yotha can be in the presence of others. He's standing right next to his dad, both Faifa and Newton next to him as the older male graciously thanks the guests for making time to celebrate this occasion with him. 

''...of course, I have to thank my sons too ; Newton, Yotha and Faifa for holding this celebration for me.''

Laughter rings around the room when Faifa executes a dramatic bow, ignoring both Newton's and Yotha's judgmental side eye. Next to Gun, Wine shakes his head with a soft chuckle as if he hadn't expected nothing less from his boyfriend. 

''I'm blessed to be of this age and to be surrounded by my loves ones. My sons, specifically, even if they've probably shortened my lifespan by about 10 to 15 years.''

More laughter permeates the room, and Gun snorts into his glass of champagne at the brothers' exasperated faces. If he was to use Yotha as an example, he wouldn't have thought that their dad would have such a candid sense of humor. 

''That's not all for tonight. I think by now, most of you might probably already know this, but I've been considering full retirement for the past few years. I think it's about time that I finally have some time to myself, do what I want to do. So, I'm formally taking this opportunity to announce that Yotha will be taking over the reigns. I hope all of you that I've had the pleasure of doing business with over the years will extend him the same grace and patience that you have extended me when I first started out.'' He claps an awkward Yotha on the back, the male not even cracking a smile at the smattering of claps that rings around the room. 

Faifa not-so-discreetly nudges Yotha, whispering something into his ear. 

''How do you do it, P'Gun?'' Wine asks suddenly.

Briefly taking his eyes off Yotha, Gun turns to the younger male, confused. ''Do what?''

''When you're with P'Yotha, he seems like a completely different person...almost approachable. But when it's just him, he's really so intimidating.''

Gun focuses his attention to the front once more, taking in Yotha's vexed expression and furrowed brows. He breaks out into a tiny smile when their eyes meet, witnessing it for himself as Yotha's tight expression morphs into something less troubled instead. His eyebrows are no longer creased and the grip that he has around his glass of champagne loosens, Yotha's entire demeanour taking on a more relaxed state. All because Gun had smiled at him. Once the cake-cutting and well-wishes are over, most of the guests migrating towards the buffet spread displayed out, Yotha makes his way over towards them.

''Thanks for staying with him, Wine.''

''Anytime, P'Yotha. I should go and check on P'Faifa before he gets drunk off the all-you-can-drink champagne fountain.'' Wine excuses himself politely, finally leaving the pair together.

''I'll go get you some food.''

While he's not the type to say no to food, Gun can sense that Yotha's already drained from being around so many people. Instead, he snags two more glasses of champagne from a passing staff and suggest that they head upstairs to Yotha's bedroom instead. Everyone was far too occupied to notice them making their escape. In the comfort of his bedroom, Yotha shrugs off his suit jacket with a suit and drapes it over the back of his chair. He stops in his tracks and then makes a turn towards the bedroom door once more, locking it.

''Faifa.'' Yotha offers as an explanation, sitting down at the foot of his mattress next to Gun.

Gun laughs, comfortably resting his weight against the other. On a whim, he raises his glass up, prompting for Yotha to do the same. Lightly, Gun clinks their glasses.  ''I don't know if 'congratulations' is the right thing to say, considering...well, the risks of what you do. But-'' He rests his hand on Yotha's thigh, hoping that he'd be able to convey his thoughts articulately. ''-I just want you to know I'm gonna stick by your side, Yotha. Through the good, the bad...everything in-between, even if it terrifies you.'' He lapses into uncertain silence when Yotha says nothing, fidgeting at the prolonged silence - wondering if he might have said too much.

''Newton once asked me what was it about you that's got me so...he's never seen this side of me. I had the answer, but I didn't tell him.''

Gun takes a sip of his champagne, his curiosity piqued. ''Will you tell me at least?''

''It's...when you've spent years and years stuck in a dark place, you start losing hope about finding a way out. No matter how you try to claw your way out, you find yourself circling back to the same starting point. That was me after my mother. My break-up. I tried everything only to end up going back to the same unhealthy coping mechanisms. And then you came along - my very own light in the bleak dark space I've grown comfortable in. The sunshine that greets me after my darkest and loneliest hours.''

It's not an answer that Gun would ever expect from Yotha. It's the sweetest, most heartfelt thing someone could possibly say about him. Gun knows by now that he's got quite the infectious energy, bringing laughter wherever he is. It stems from growing up with a tight-knitted family who never once shied away from expression their love and affection, so it was only natural that Gun would be the same. His parents and older sister had doted on him since young and even though he's a grown adult, he might as well still be a well-loved child in their eyes.

''Don't say that, Yotha...'' Gun protests weakly. ''I know I said I'll deal with it if this doesn't turn out to be love. But if you say things like that....it's going to be harder for me to get over it if this doesn't work out between us.'' For the first time since both of them started this situationship thing going on, Gun feels a faint prickle of fear at the possibility of Yotha realizing that what he feels for Gun might not be love after all. No, don't go there - focus on the present, Gunyukhol. ''Also, you're setting the bar way too high, Yotha. What if I like someone in the future when things don't work for us,  and I start comparing them to you and-''

Yotha shuts him up with a firm kiss before pulling away with a front. ''Are you seriously talking about liking someone else in front of me?''

''I'm just being realis-''

Yotha kisses him again, harder this time round, effectively stopping Gun from completing his sentence.

''Then I'll make sure that this works out between us.'' Yotha tells him seriously, reaching out to tuck a stray curl of hair behind Gun's ear. ''I'll prove it to you, Gun.''

''Damn it, Yotha.'' Gun mutters weakly, leaning his forehead against Yotha's shoulder so that the other wouldn't be able to bear witness to just how hotly he's blushing. ''You're not making this easy for me.'' He says in a muffled voice. 

I don't want to be the first one to admit that I'm in love.

- / -

Chapter Text

Gun manages to cajole Yotha into rejoining the party downstairs, purely out of respect for Yotha's dad more than anything else. Yotha doesn't put up much of a fight, surprisingly. Downstairs, it's mostly people coming up to Yotha as and when to congratulate him on taking over the family business, and that he shouldn't hesitate to reach out if he needs anything. It's late into the night when the guests finally start leaving, most of them offering their congratulations to Yotha on the way out, reminding him that he shouldn't hesitate to reach out if there's anything that he might need. Maybe it's just Yotha's dad who's tipsier than usual from the celebrations, but the older male embraces Yotha in a tight hug.

''I'm really proud of you, Yotha.''

A stricken Yotha reciprocates by awkwardly patting his dad on the shoulder, but Gun sees it on his face just how much the words mean to him. 

''Are we having a family hug?'' Faifa jumps in with his arms outstretched, nearly knocking the pair to the side with his enthusiasm. 

Newton laughs at the youngest's antics but allows himself to be pulled in nevertheless. Gun might never admit to shedding a tear, but after everything the family has been put through, he can only hope that everyone finds their own peace and happiness.

''Thank you, phi chai .'' Faifa raises both his hands together at Yotha, solemnly lowering his head. ''Thanks to you, I don't have to take over the family business and deal with messy backstabbing idiots-''

''Fai, you're ruining the moment.''

A while later, Yotha comes to join Gun outside in the back garden, quietly occupying the empty seat on the bench next to him. He can sense Yotha's hesitance without even looking at him, but says nothing, simply waiting for the other to voice out what's on his mind. He's learned that it's always better to let Yotha figure out what he wants to say or do at his own time.

''You being here really made my dad happy tonight.''

''I think it's more of the fact that you actually stuck around tonight. It's obvious how much he loves all three of you.''

There's no denial from Yotha, just a small nod of his head acknowledging that fact. ''He poured everything he had to bring us up. We used to wonder why he didn't remarry until New told us it's because he didn't want to risk any chances of putting us through the same shit again. That's just how he is.''

There's not much that Gun can say when it comes to the dynamics of Yotha's family, but he hopes that his presence serves as some form of comfort.

''...do you want to stay over tonight?''

Gun pretends to give it some thought, just to mess with Yotha before he casually shrugs a shoulder, ''Sure. It's late anyway. And your bed's so much more comfortable than mine.''

It's touching how thoughtful and careful when Yotha is with him, as if not wanting to come off as too forceful. Making sure that they're both alone outside, Gun sweetly kisses him on the cheek, ''Maybe I'll find out tonight if you meant what you said about not holding back anymore.'' He hears the sharp intake of Yotha's breath at the implications of those words.

''You know I don't say things that I don't mean.

''Confident, aren't we? Well, we can sit here and go back-and-forth, but I'm more of a hands-on type of person, if you know what I mean. Visual aids will help a lot too.''

It feels like a personal victory each time Yotha smiles or cracks a laugh around him, and Gun hopes he'll be able to keep doing so for a long, long time. Yotha stands up and offers his hand, ''Then you should be prepared for an all-nighter.''

''...wow, Yotha, was that you actually making a joke ? Wait, what's the date today - I'm going to buy the lottery tomorrow.''

- / -

''Faifa's going to regret it so much when he sees that video tomorrow morning-''

Gun hears the quiet snick of the door closing behind them before he feels a pair of arms around his midsection, Yotha nuzzling his face against Gun's nape in a show of affection. 

''I can't believe you made me sit through the whole thing.'' Yotha grumbles, turning Gun around in his arms and attacking his face with kisses.

''Your dad invited me as a guest to his party. The least I could do is to make sure I show him some respect by staying.'' Gun's content not to say another word when Yotha kisses him, impatient fingers tugging at the strings of his grey ribbed top. 

''Mm-'' Gun nips at Yotha's bottom lip in warning. ''Be gentle, Yotha. I just bought this last week.''

Yotha pays him no mind, successfully managing to undo the strings as he backs Gun up until the back of his knees bumps against the edge of the bed, both of them tumbling onto the mattress with a laugh. They're pleasantly buzzed, but not tipsy, mostly for the reason that they're both adamant that nothing interrupts what they have in mind tonight. Yotha slips a knee between Gun's thighs, parting them seamlessly.

''I'll buy you a new one.''

Gun props himself up on both elbows and tips his head back with a sigh, distracted by Yotha peppering kisses down his throat instead. ''Careful, or people are going to start saying you're my sugar daddy.'' The scratch of teeth and stubble against his soft pampered skin feels so deliciously arousing, and he whines in protest when Yotha pauses his ministrations to lift Gun's shirt over his head, carelessly tossing it onto the floor a second later.

''Yotha.'' Gun slaps him on the arm, laughing at how impatient the other male's being, but he doesn't protest when Yotha starts kissing down his chest, his own fingers fumbling with the buttons of his shirt, the material catching around his elbows in his haste to get undressed. They have a good laugh wrestling it off, sharing another languid kiss as they scoot further up the bed where there's so much more space. 

''You're so stupidly hot.'' Gun complains playfully as he squeezes Yotha's bicep, not realizing just how much more muscular he's grown in the span of a year. 

It shouldn't be surprising since Yotha religiously sticks to his workout regime. Gun drinks in his fill, admiring the broad slope of Yotha's shoulders as he pinches, prods and pokes to his heart's content. He's stopped when Yotha gathers both his wrists in one hand, easily pinning them above Gun's head and fuck if that isn't the hottest thing ever for Gun. It must have shown on his face because Yotha cracks a smug grin, experimentally tightening his grip. Obviously he likes what he's seeing; Gun spread out beneath him against his midnight black sheets.

''Have you seen yourself?'' A full-on shiver courses through Gun when he feels teeth nip at his ear, followed by the slide of Yotha's tongue against his earlobe before the flesh is sucked between eager lips. ''You're a huge distraction.'' The strings of Gun's linen pants come loose and Gun pulls away just enough to watch Yotha's face when the male's hand stills, taking in the white low-waist lace boxers with identical white ribbons looped perfectly at the sides. It's snug enough that it sits perfectly on Gun's hips, showing off the slightly defined v. ''Gun.'' Yotha sounds absolutely pained.

''I take it that you approve of them?''

''I'm definitely buying you more of these.'' It sounds like a promise that Yotha's intent on keeping, so Gun's not going to say no to that.

Gun willingly follows when Yotha hikes one of Gun's leg up over his hips, their bodies slotting perfectly where Gun can't help but to grind against the bulge that's straining the front of the male's boxer briefs. It's almost as if they can't stop kissing each other, each kiss more heated and sloppier than the previous- the sounds of their mingled breaths and pants permeating the room. They're so close that they're practically molded to each other, but Gun presses in even closer when Yotha cups his ass and squeezes, the pace of their hips growing even more disjointed by the second. Gun feels like hormonal teenager who's just discovered the wonders of grinding against his pillow at the mere age of seventeen - the heat, anticipation and lust coming together in the pit of his belly.

He bucks when Yotha lowers his head and takes a pink pebbled nub into his mouth, not extending any sort of warning before he feels the gentle scrape of teeth. When Yotha sucks, Gun swears he feels it to the very tip of his toes. He's not gentle with it as well, but that's just how Gun loves it. Yotha looks up to check his face for any signs of discomfort and Gun shakes his head, unable to find the words to convey that he's fine. It's all the assure that Yotha needs because he switches his attention to the other nipple, biting down hard enough that Gun thinks this might end embarrassingly quick for him. He's fine with that - they're young enough to have a decent refractory period. 

''Fuck, you look so erotic like this.'' Yotha whispers against his breastbone, pausing to collect himself.

Gun doesn't have to look at himself to guess how he looks right now; hair mussed and cheeks tomato red, his puffy pink nipples a contrast against his milky skin. He knows he's attractive, but the way Yotha is eyeing him makes him feel like a long-awaited special treat about to be devoured. Sitting up, he pushes Yotha flat onto his back and straddles him in one fluid movement, his thighs bracketing Yotha's hips. He starts a slow sensual grind of his hips, putting his flexibility from years of dancing to good use as he balances himself by placing both palms on Yotha's firm chest, seeking the friction that he's so desperately craving right now. 

''Gun-'' Yotha can't seem to tear his gaze away from where he's bare cock is rubbing up against the lace material of Gun's low-waist boxers, the precum pooling at the slit creating a damp stain on the thin material. ''You're going have to stop if you actually want me to fuck you. I've been pent up for way too long.''

''And who's fault is that, hm?'' Gun exerts out, enjoying just how out of it Yotha looks at the moment. ''It's fine, Yotha. We can always take the edge off first. I'm more than ready for your all-nighter.'' It's enough to fuel Yotha to punishingly knead Gun's ass with his palms, fingers digging into the pert flesh and Gun hopes that Yotha's not the sort to be opposed to leaving bruises on his ass too in the future.

''Shit.'' Yotha lets out a shaky exhale, stilling Gun before another drag of his hips can send Yotha over the edge. ''I'm so close.'' 

''Do you want to fuck my thighs?''

Yotha makes an unintelligible sound that has Gun hunching forward from laughter, but the amusement doesn't last long when he finds himself being turned onto his side, Yotha pressing up against his back. He can feel just how erect Yotha is, willing pushing back when the male pulls his boxers down just enough until they're bunched around his thighs. He makes a move to completely remove them, but Yotha stops him.

''No, keep them on.'' Yotha's voice already sounds so utterly wrecked - rough around the edges, the lust heavy in his tone.

''Pervert.'' There's no malice in Gun's tone, just pure glee because he knows now what excites Yotha.

He keeps his thighs pressed together, hearing the shuddery exhale of pleasure behind him when Yotha slides his cock between Gun's thighs. The grip he has on Gun's hip is bruising, as if it's the one thing keeping Yotha from tipping over the edge. Gun lets out his own sigh of gratification when Yotha mouths butterfly kisses against his shoulder. He hides his face against his arm when Yotha starts moving, muffling his moans with how lewd this feels. 

''Don't hide your face, baby. I love hearing you make those sounds.''

It's enough for Gun to lift his head and crane his neck to look at Yotha, showing just how wonderful this feels for him as well. He's definitely no virgin, and he's had his fair share of fooling around before Yotha, but Gun doesn't remember it being this intense. His ex-partner had always treated him as if he was delicate, as if he couldn't take being manhandled. Gun feels pinned to the spot, content to just let the other use him as he pleased and Gun must have said it out loud without realizing it, because Yotha's kissing him all of a sudden.

''...you can't say things like that, Gun.'' Yotha's hand drifts from Gun's hip to his cock, finally, finally taking pity on him. ''Especially to me.''

Any response that he plans on giving dies on his lips when Yotha earnestly begins to stroke his cock in tandem with the thrust of his hips. The insides of his thighs are sticky and wet from Yotha's precum, the slick sounds making the whole thing more arousing than it already is. Gun's going to have to thank those thirty minutes strength-training workouts he does every morning without fail, because he can feel the faint burn of keeping his thighs firmly pressed together. It's Gun's orgasm that hits him first, spilling messily all over Yotha's fingers when the male bites down on his shoulder. The white-hot pleasure-pain shoots straight down to his belly and everything sort of fades out for the first five seconds, Gun floating on purely euphoria. 

''Holy fuck.'' Thick white streaks of cum paint the insides of Gun's thigh as Yotha shudders behind him, breathing heavily against Gun's shoulder in attempt to catch his breath.

There's no rest for the wicked. With nothing but cheekiness and the intent to just torture Yotha, Gun scoots downwards and shifts onto his knees. He doesn't bother giving Yotha a heads up before he wraps his lips around Yotha's half-flaccid cock, the bitter tang of cum staining his tongue, but it's nothing too unpleasant. Even though not fully erect, it serves as a bit of a challenge for Gun. Reminding himself to relax, Gun eases his jaw as he slides his lips lower, enjoying the velvety feel of Yotha's cock against his tongue. Fuck, he forgets just how much he loves this - being able to pleasure someone and watch them unravel at the seams. It's even better when it's the ever-so-composed Yotha.

''Gun!'' Yotha hips bucks upwards, hands coming to grip at Gun's hair - torn between guiding his head further down or pulling him off with how over sensitized his cock is.

But Gun refuses to relent, loving how Yotha's cock is girthy enough that it makes his mouth feel full and whatever that his lips can't quite reach, Gun makes up for it by wrapping both his hands around it. 

''Shit, that's-'' Yotha looks down at him with foggy eyes. ''Can I fuck your mouth?'' 

Gun slides his lips off with a wet pop, making a show of licking the remnants of Yotha's cum from his spit-slicked lips. 

''I told you, Yotha. I'll let you use me any way you want to. Now-'' He splays his fingers against Yotha's abdomen, caressing the taut skin as he peeks up at the male suggestively. ''I've been told that it's rude to talk with my mouth full.''

- / -

''Yotha, you've never really asked what it is that I like about you.''

Of course Gun's not tired yet. He had thought that Gun would fall asleep as soon as they were done washing up, but he's now lying down with his head propped on Yotha's stomach, body horizontal to the bed with his feet hanging off the sides. 

''I don't think I have that much redeeming qualities to begin with.'' Yotha doesn't mean it in a self-depreciating way, but more of a factual statement.

Gun frowns in clear objection, ''That's not true.'' It's as if someone had personally insulted him instead of Yotha. ''Aren't you just a tiny bit curious as to why I like you?''

Sensing that there was no harm in indulging Gun, Yotha caves in, ''Fine, I'll bite. Please, share your answer with the class, khun noo.''

The endearment earns him a slap to his bare stomach, but teasing Gun was always worth it since Yotha always gets the desired reaction he wants. 

''First of all-'' Gun sticks his thumb out. ''You're really good-looking.''

Yotha squeezes him on the cheek for being playful, ''Seriously?''

''I wasn't kidding when I said I love the bad boys. But of course that's not the main reason.'' Gun shimmies upwards until he's close enough to rest his chin on Yotha's chest. ''I like how you care more than you let on. When you stood up for Faifa against your mom, I think that was when I realized that you're someone I would always feel safe around. I've already felt like that before - when you punched that asshole for touching me.'' He's referring to that particular incident from a year ago that had led them to this very moment. ''But what I really lo-'' He's confused when Gun catches himself just in time, but doesn't press further. ''-like about you is that you don't make me feel like I'm too much.'' Yotha listens on attentively as Gun starts to idly trace random shapes on Yotha's chest with the tip of his finger. ''You know I'm the youngest in the family, right? I wouldn't say I'm excessively spoiled, but-''

''Really?'' Gun smacks him on the chest. ''I'm kidding, Gun.''

''I guess I got used to being brought up a certain way. My parents and sister really doted on me a lot, so you can say that I'm very open when it comes to showing and receiving affection. Remember what P'Kloy said about not liking my ex? I brought him home once...I think this was in my final year of university. Everything was going well, but he said something like-'' Gun scratches his temple in an attempt to recall the exact words. ''-about how it's weird my parents and sister still dote and baby me so much even though I'm all grown up. I think it just made him....uncomfortable? It made me realize then that he wouldn't be able to love me the way I want to be loved. I want to be loved and adored a certain way, because that's just how I am and with you....'' Gun folds his hands under his chin, smiling prettily at Yotha. ''I don't have to worry about being too much.'' 

''Thank fuck that he ended up being a massive idiot.''

''...aaaaaand that concludes my essay as to why I like you.'' As if he's realized that he had said too much without meaning to, Gun's shy all of a sudden. 

''Thank you.'' It's all that Yotha can manage for now - it's always a struggle to accept that there's a possibility that someone out there is crazy enough to want to be with him. ''Other than my dad and Faifa, I don't think I've ever had anyone say something like that to me.'' Was this what 'to be seen is to be loved' meant?

''Yotha?''

''Hm?''

A hand worms it's way past the waistband of Yotha's sweats, the action proving to be the complete opposite of Gun's innocent smile. ''Have you tested what your refractory's period like?'' 

- / - 

Chapter Text

''Yotha, I can't believe you've never watched a Final Destination movie.''

Gun dips his hand into the bowl prawn crackers that they're sharing. It's rare that Yotha doesn't have to be out tonight, and since Gun wasn't scheduled to work as well, he had suggested that Yotha come and spend the night. It was Yotha who suggested watching a movie, which led to Gun finding out that the other has yet to watch a single Final Destination movie.

''P'Kloy made me watch it and it was the stuff of nightmares. Each time dad drove behind a truck with logs, I'd start crying.'' Huh, now that Gun thinks about it, his sister really should compensate him for making him sit through that movie at the mere age of 10. 

''Faifa hates gore. Each time we tried to watch something together at home when we were younger, it always ended up being a funny movie. Or horror, if Newton's the one who picks.''

''What about you? What do you like?''

Yotha raises his beer up to his lips with a dry smile, ''The middle child rarely ever gets to pick.''

Gun's about to say something when his phone buzzes on his thigh, signaling an incoming video call from his mâe. Grabbing a tissue from the coffee table, he hastily wipes his fingers before answering the call, greeting her cheerily. She makes it a habit to call and check up on him every week, wanting to make sure that he was fine by himself, and if he was eating and sleeping well instead of just working tirelessly. 

''Gun, are you coming home this weekend?''

''Maybe the next weekend, mâe. It's a bit too late for me to switch my shifts with someone else, but I promise I'll be home next week.''

His mom sets the phone up against something, giving him a knowing smile through the screen. ''You're not referring yourself by your nickname like you usually do. Is there someone with you? Kloy said you had a friend over when she came over the other there.''

Just like Gun, Kloy too loves to talk. It definitely runs in the family. It just so happens that everyone in his family is overly invested in the lack updates when it comes to Gun's dating life (prior to Yotha, that is). At the mention of his usual nickname, Gun makes a face because he can see that Yotha's interest is definitely piqued. 

''Oho, mâe...I'm with my friend. Of course I'm not going to use that nickname.'' He angles his phone towards Yotha, the other bringing his hand up awkwardly since he wasn't expecting for Gun to include him in the video call. ''This is Yotha.''

''Hello, Yotha. I think this is the first time I've seen you. I've met some of his other friends...I think it was Kong and Book.'' Gun can safely say that he takes over after his mother's warm and friendly nature, which was why he's introduced most of his friends to her. ''Have you known Gun for long?''

''Er...it's been about a year or so, mâe.''

''Gun, in that case, you shouldn't have any problem using your nickname in front of him. Have you eaten yet, Gun?''

Gun should have known that his mom wouldn't let it slip so easily. Sighing defeatedly, Gun braces for the onslaught of teasing he's going to receive from Yotha later once he ends the call. ''Fine.'' It takes some hesitation before he answer her question. ''Noo's eaten already, mâe.'' He wants to burrow a hole into this couch as it is and disappear for the rest of the night. ''Yotha brought dinner over.''

''Nong Gun, why don't you bring Yotha with you next week? I think your por would love to meet him too.''

Right, this was moving waaaaaay too fast. Not that he didn't want to introduce Yotha to his family, but he didn't want the other to feel like he was obligated to come.

''Mâe-''

Yotha's face appears next to his, ''I'd love to, mâe. Thank you for inviting me.''

''Thank you for taking care of nong Gun. I know he's all grown up, but I don't think there's any mothers out there that don't worry when their child's living all alone.''

Gun notices as Yotha's smile dims at those words, most likely thinking of his own mother.

''Noo will bring Yotha next week, mâe.'' If it's one thing that Yotha might appreciate, it would be the kindness and warmth of Gun's family and hopefully, they would soothe the wounds he's been nursing for years.

''Alright, mâe won't take up any more of time, nong Gun. See you next week, Yotha.''

As soon as the video call ends, Gun shifts and brings his legs up onto the sofa to cross them. ''I'm sorry.''

''It's alright. It's not like she knows. Besides, she's not wrong.'' His words are accompanied with a wry smile at the end. ''So...noo, huh?''

Gun grabs a cushion and hugs it a cushion as if it could serve him as a shield against Yotha's teasing. ''I told you I'm just a baby in their eyes.''

''You're a baby in my eyes too.'' Yotha takes a handful of Gun's cheeks between his fingers and squeezes them affectionately. ''Yotha's baby.''

Gun wants to press his face into the cushion and scream into it to his heart's content because WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT. His heart rate does that thing where it picks up and attempts to send him into cardiac arrest whenever Yotha says or does something that really-not-healthy for his sanity, heart or mind. Instead of screaming and possibly scaring Yotha off, Gun attempts to play it cool. He turns to face the television once more, but scoots closer when Yotha curls an arm around his shoulders. The opening scene of the first Final Destination movie comes up and even though Gun's rewatched this like a million times, he still considers it pretty iconic. 

''You know - I'm thinking that there's other things we can do than watch people die because the universe decides to be a dick.'' 

''You're the one who suggested we watch a movie, Yotha.'' Gun stops Yotha's hand from creeping further up his shorts, slapping it away playfully. 

Gun's learning these days that Yotha's quite the pouty person when he's denied of what he wants. The male groans against Gun's shoulder, ''I did, but that was before you started being a huge distraction.''

''Yotha, I'm literally in these shorts that I've had since my university days, and there's a hole in my shirt.'' Gun points to the tiny rip at along the seam of his shirt. ''I'm anything but a distraction.''

''Sure, but your hair and skin smells good, so there's that.'' It's ticklish when Yotha starts sniffing at his cheeks as if to prove his point.

''Yotha, stop.'' Gun raises a finger in warning at him, purposely creating some distance between them by placing a cushion in the center. ''You said we'd watch a movie, so we're going to watch the movie. See, you're the one who creates these kind of situations for yourself.''

- / -

Yotha understands now why Gun is effortlessly the way he is - he's definitely inherited his mom's warm and sunny disposition, the pair exchanging a tight loving hug the moment Gun steps in past the main doors. She kisses him on both cheeks, sporting a smile so full of love and affection that it makes Yotha feel as if he's on the receiving end of it. He's taken aback when the older woman greets him with a gentle hug, allowing him to experience the warmth of a mother's touch.

''Welcome to our house, Yotha.'' There's so much kindness in her eyes as well. 

He assumes that the one sitting at the dining table is Gun's dad; he didn't come off as excessively intimidating, but he didn't seem as approachable either. Nevertheless, Yotha presses both palms together and lifts them up in a respectful wai. The middle-aged man acknowledges the greeting with a nod of his head, setting down the iPad in his hand. He then turns to his wife, ''What did you say his name was again? Yothin?''

''Por, it's Yotha.'' Gun corrects him immediately. 

''It's the same. Yotha, come sit.'' The older male motions him over, gesturing towards one of the empty seats. ''Gun, I think your mâe might need some help in the kitchen.''

It's okay, Yotha mouths to Gun when the other flashes him an apologetic look. As instructed, he cautiously takes a seat just as Gun disappears into the kitchen with his mom. Yotha resists the urge to fidget. Usually, he's the one making people uncomfortable, so to be on the receiving end of it is not fun. He wrecks his brain for a topic that the both of them could maybe talk about. Did Gun ever mention anything about his dad being a huge supporter of any sports team? Or maybe he was into fishing? Maybe not fishing. Shit, Yotha's drawing a complete blank.

''Don't stress it, son. I just want to get to know you better since you're Gun's friend.'' The other continues to appraise him, subjecting Yotha to another wave of anxiety. ''Well, you're definitely so much better looking than that Hira person Gun brought home.''

''Er...do you mean Hiran?''

The older male makes a dismissive gesture with his hand, ''It doesn't really matter. What do you do for a living, Yotha?''

''I...just recently took over the family business from my por. It's nothing too interesting. Just some import and export.'' It's the best that he can come up with without giving away too many details. 

''Hm.'' The other gives non-committedly hum.

Yotha genuinely couldn't get a good read on Gun's dad. He wasn't sure what the other felt about him, but Yotha did want to leave a good impression at least. 

''Do you like watching soccer, Yotha?''

Well, crap. Yotha doesn't know shit about soccer, mainly because it's not as if he has that much free time on his hands . He contemplates lying, desperately wracking his brain for the name of any soccer team, but then decides that he might as well go with telling the truth anyway.

''No, not really. I'm not a huge fan of soccer actually.''

For the first time since Yotha has stepped foot into the house, Gun's dad finally smiles at him. It's crazy that Yotha has sat through so many nerve-wracking business-related negotiations with much scarier people, but it's Gun's dad who has him sweating buckets from just a simple conversation.

''Good, I'm not much of a fan either. How did you get to know Gun?''

Yotha isn't sure just how much Gun has told his parents, or if they even know that he's a dancer at a nightclub, so he opts for something safe to say instead. Besides, he's not sure if they're conservative or open-minded people, and he wouldn't want to get Gun into any unnecessary trouble with them.

''We met through some mutual friends.'' Well, it's not exactly a lie.

Thankfully, Gun chooses that moment to come save Yotha before the older male can ask him more questions. With a sheepish smile, he excuses himself and follows Gun up to the second floor where the bedroom is, heaving a huge sigh of relief as soon as they're behind closed doors. He shrugs off his outer wear, realizing just how much he's perspiring.

''Poor Yotha. You should have seen how pale you looked.'' Gun coos at his poorly state, cupping Yotha's cheeks in his palms. 

''You lied, beagle. You said he was friendly.'' That wasn't 'friendly' - it might as well feel as if Yotha was facing some inquisition squad or something.

''He is! Look, how many questions did he ask you?''

''...a few.''

''That's basically him being friendly. If it'll make you feel better, when I brought Hir-'' At Yotha's subdued glare just in case Gun thought of mentioning his ex-partner's name in front of him, Gun backpedals. ''When I brought my no-good piece of shit partner home-''

''Much better.''

''As I was saying, when I brought him home, pôr barely said a word to him. Cheer up, Yotha. He'll warm up to you soon enough.''

- / -

Yotha should have known that Gun was always right. Note to self: Gun is never wrong.

Growing up, home-cooked meals and eating together as a family could be considered a luxury. Prior to the divorce, their parents were already facing problems and at each other's neck most of the time, so it became the norm to eat separately. If everyone happened to be at the dining table together, the tension between their parents were so thick that it was suffocating. It'd end up with their mother storming off in the middle or the meal and their dad would retreat to his study. It only got better after the divorce happened because their dad made it a habit for them to have at least one meal together as a family. In Yotha's opinion, his dad had really tried his best to maintain some semblance of them being a family at least. But here, in Gun's home, it's a stark difference to how Yotha had grown up. He looks up at Gun's mother in surprise when she helps to dish some of the food onto his plate.

''These are prawns cooked in white wine, Yotha. It's nong Gun's favorite. Here-'' She picks up the serving spoon and places a generous helping of som tum onto his plate as well. ''-have some vegetables too.''

Yotha can't find it in him to speak, the gratitude making him feel choked up. 

''What's wrong?'' She asks in a concerned tone when she notices that Yotha hasn't picked up his utensils yet. ''Is it not to your liking, Yotha? I can always cook something else-''

''No!'' Panicked, Yotha hastily picks up his fork and spoon, clearing his throat. He feels Gun's hand on his thigh - warm and comforting. ''It's just...I haven't had a home-cooked meal like this in a really long time.''

Instead of the pitying look that Yotha usually gets when he hints at his familial situation, Gun's mother simply gives him a kind smile in return. ''In that case, you should come over and eat here more often.''

''She's right. The more time you spend here, the quicker we can get you to help with the electricity bills.''

He says it with such a straight face that no one at the table reacts until Gun's dad starts laughing, ''I'm just kidding.'' He claps Yotha on the shoulder once. ''Eat, Yotha.''

There's no room for silence with Gun's family, especially when Kloy returns from her errand and joins them at the table. She and Gun can't seem to stop poking fun at each other - typical sibling behavior. But if there's one thing that everyone has in common, it's that everyone loves to dote on Gun. The laughter and chatter contributes to the warmth and homeliness of the house, wrapping around him like tendrils of assurance. He finds himself thinking of Faifa, Newton and his dad - missing them extra in this very moment.  Kloy suggests getting dessert outside and they make the ten minute to the nearest night market after dinner. 

Gun and Yotha linger behind hand-in-hand, allowing the rest of the family to walk up ahead to check out the different stalls. With the purple and orange skies in the horizon and the evening wind gentle against Yotha's face, Gun next to him, Yotha figures this is what true happiness and contentment must be. Gun swings their hand back and forth, deep in though as to what kind of desserts he wants to cleanse his palate with, but Yotha knows he's going to take just a couple of bites and leave it to Yotha to finish.

''I hope being around my family didn't tire you out too much.''

''They're really great.'' Up ahead, Kloy was sandwiching herself between her parents who were holding hands as well, slinging both her arms around their shoulders. ''Makes me think how I would have turned out if I grew up in a different environment.'

''I think you turned out pretty okay.''

Yotha pulls him closer with a laugh, ''Just pretty okay?''

''Maybe if you had grown up in a different environment, you'd be the sort of person to not squeeze the toothpaste from the middle.''

''Gun, it was one time-''

- / -

''Yotha, I've made up the guest room for you. If there's anything you need, feel free to ask Gun for it.''

Both Gun and Yotha look up from where they're seated at the foot of Gun's queen-sized bed, controllers in hand. As much as Yotha is thankful that she had gone to such lengths, he can't spend a night sleeping in a separate room away from Gun. Discreetly, he nudges his elbow against Gun - twice. 

''Er, mâe, Yotha's going to bunk in with me.''  

''Oh, but are you sure Yotha's going to be alright sleeping with the lights on?''

''He's used to it.''

Yotha can see the regret on Gun's face the moment those words slips past his lips.

''Oh.'' It's said in an understanding lilt this time round, her smile especially wide. ''In that case, the extra pillows and blankets are in the guest bedroom if you need them.'' She's on her way out when she suddenly stops, turning around once more. ''Nong Gun, don't forget to lock the door before you sleep. You know Kloy has a habit of barging in as and when.''

''Mâe!''

''You might be used to it, but we wouldn't want to scare Yotha off so quickly.'' With that, she exits the room and gently closes the door behind her.

Yotha picks up the bowl of assorted fruits between them and spears a piece of cut watermelon, offering it up to Gun, ''Here.'' 

Through a mouthful of juicy watermelon, Gun suddenly clings onto Yotha's arm, ''This is the first time we've been alone since we got here.''

Squeezing Gun's nose affectionately, Yotha feeds him a sliced pineapple this time round. ''We've only been here for what...six to seven hours?''

''Six to seven hours too long.'' Gun swoops in for a kiss, his lips sweet and sticky from the fruits.

Carefully, Yotha sets the bowl on the floor just as Gun climbs into his lap and frames Yotha's face in his hands, playfully pressing multiple kisses against Yotha's lips and cheeks. Yotha's more than content to let Gun take the lead for now, gently stroking his sides as they exchange unhurried kisses. He doesn't even care that the frame of the bed is digging slightly into his back, rightfully distracted by the beauty perched on his lap. Naughty hands stray further down until he's got a handful of Gun's ass in his palms, kneading the flesh between his fingers as he pulls Gun's bottom lip between his teeth. He's not sure how far they're going tonight, but there's no objection at Gun's end when Yotha's hand disappears past the waistband of his flimsy cotton-thin sleep shorts, lowering the stretchy band beneath the cheeks.

''Wait, let me-'' Gun kisses the corner of Yotha's lips. ''-get the lube and lock the door real quick.'' He's agile in his movements unlike Yotha who feels like he's having a goddamn out-of-body appearance.

Gun rummages in the bedside drawer for the bottle of lube and condoms (just in case), locking the door for good measure before resuming his position on Yotha's lap once more. They share another kiss, the snick of the lube cap startingly loud in the bedroom.

''How many fingers is comfortable for you?''

''Two if you want to be a tease, three if you really want to drive me crazy. But you don't have to be overly gentle, I'm pretty well acquainted with my toys on a weekly basis.''

Yotha squeezes the bottle too hard and ends up with more than he needs.

''No need to look so shocked, Yotha. I'm an adult with a healthy libido, and it doesn't help that I have to spend so much time around you.'' He brings his lips closer to Yotha's ear. ''I'll show you my collection the next time.''

''Has anyone told you what a minx you are?''

''I don't need anyone to tell me that.'' Gun wriggles impatiently in his lap. ''It's rude to make me wait, Yotha.''

He warms the lube up between his fingers before teasingly sliding his middle finger between Gun's ass cheeks, watching the male's face carefully when the tip of his finger brushes against the opening. Just because he can't resist being a tease, he circles the tip of his finger against it, applying the slightest bit of pressure but not yet enough to breach the tight ring of muscles.

''Yotha...'' 

''What do you say when you want something?'' Yotha kisses the underside of Gun's jaw.

''I just give you my puppy eyes and you get it for me.''

''Brat.'' With his free hand, Yotha lightly smacks Gun on the ass with his free hand, eliciting a yelp from him.

''What? It's not as if that's a lie.'' But Yotha is indeed weak against Gun's doe-like eyes. ''Please, Yotha.''

''Good boy.'' The hitch in Gun's breathing doesn't go unnoticed, and Yotha files that observation for next time. Again, he carefully gauges Gun's face before pressing the tip of his finger in, patiently waiting for Gun to adjust before he slides it in all the way up to his knuckle.

''Oh, that's nice.'' Gun breathes out, the muscles of his abdomen clenching slightly as he rocks down on Yotha's finger. ''Another one, please.'' Yotha laughs and kisses him on the chin.

''So polite.''

It takes a little more time for Yotha to ease his forefinger in, but when he does, Gun lets out a shuddery exhale and hunches forward. 

''Alright?'' He presses a gentle kiss to Gun's shoulder, stroking the male's back with his other hand. 

''More than good.'' Gun smiles at him hazily, beginning to rock down against Yotha's fingers; the way he moves is so utterly sensual, so fluid and breathtaking. Gun's eyelids shutter close in ecstasy when Yotha crooks his fingers just so, the male looping his arms around Yotha's neck to clumsily bring their lips together. He can feel the wet slide of Gun's cock against his abdomen, leaving wet streaks of pre-cum from where Gun's eagerly rutting up against him. When the third finger is introduced, Yotha stills when Gun emits a faint hiss, sharp nails digging into the flesh of Yotha's shoulders.

''Oh fuck, it's so...'' Gun shivers, his eyes going out-of-focus from the intense pleasure that shoots through him at how full he feels. ''I changed my mind. Need you to fuck me, Yotha. If you keep going like that, I'm going to cum and then the post-orgasm sleepiness will hit, so no - I'm not making that mistake tonight.'' It's cute how Gun can still babble when Yotha is literally three fingers deep in him.

Gun lifts himself up and fumbles for the box of condoms on the floor next to them, distractedly trying to unwrap it from the packing as fast as he can with Yotha mouthing and sucking marks against his collarbones. While Yotha would love to leave his marks along Gun's neck, he'd rather not subject Gun to further questioning from his family as to why he looks like he's been mauled by a wild animal. 

''Oh wait, I wanna try something.'' Gun hands the foil to Yotha, sitting back down on the male's thighs. ''Rip it open with your teeth like how they do it in pornos.''

''Gun.'' Yotha gives him a are you kidding me look, but Gun seems dead serious on getting him to do just that.

He's horrible at saying 'no' to Gun. Yotha places the seal of the foil between his teeth and keeping his eyes fixed on Gun, he peels the top of the foil apart with his teeth and lightly blows out the piece that had ended up on his tongue.

''Well, fuck me.'' Gun breathes out, his cock giving a twitch at the little display. 

Yotha watches raptly as Gun takes the condom from him and scoots lower until he's kneeling in between Yotha's outstretched legs, teasing him with kittenish licks to the underside of his cock before fitting the condom over the swollen tip. Yotha almost loses it there and then when Gun gives him a sultry look from beneath his lashes, skillfully rolling the condom over the rest of his cock with his lips.

''....fuck, Gun.'' Yotha tips his head back against the edge of the mattress, thighs going taut. ''Was that something from a porno as well?''

''No, I've been doing some research and practicing during my free time.'' The teasing minx kisses his way up from Yotha's belly right up to his lips once he's lubed Yotha's cock up, positioning himself right above it. It takes a bit of coordinating but when Gun finally welcomes Yotha's cock into the moist tight heat of his insides, Yotha swears that his ears are fucking ringing from how insanely pleasurable it feels. It's a challenge to remain still when all he wants is to fuck into the tight heat, but the pinched look of discomfort on Gun's face knocks that thought right out of his mind.

''Deep breaths, Gun.'' He coaxes Gun with a gentle stroke to his nape. ''There's no rush, baby. We can take our time.''

''I'm fine - you're just so much bigger than what I'm used to. Just...give me a minute or two.''

Well, fuck if that isn't a massive stroke to Yotha's ego. Gun kisses him in an attempt to distract himself from the pain and Yotha submits to it, stroking his palms down the slope of Gun's shoulders and down to his chest, teasingly brushing his fingers against Gun's nipples. It does the trick because the added pleasure completely distract Gun away from the pain, the male willingly arching into Yotha's touch. Yotha experimentally gives his hips a shallow thrust, spurred on when Gun visibly gives a little convulse in his lap.

''Shit.'' 

Yotha himself feels so goddamn intoxicated with how good it feels to be buried deep in Gun. He can't get a word out even if he wants to, his thighs smacking against the underside of Gun's ass as he starts picking up the pace. 

''Oh my god, Yotha. It's like I can feel you right-'' Gun takes his hand and places it right where his pubic bone is. ''-here.''

Yotha doesn't know if that's anatomically possible or not, but that's probably the hottest thing he's ever been told. He swears he tastes a hint of blood on his tongue when Gun shifts onto his feet and starts bouncing on his cock, the squelch of lube sounding so obscenely loud in the bedroom. Yotha doesn't know where he wants to put his hands first; the fleshiest part of Gun's ass, or his hips where Yotha can grab it and fuck up into him, or his cheeks where Yotha can just kiss him senseless. 

''Why...why did we wait so long to do this?'' Yotha finds himself asking, hissing out a curse when Gun seductively leans back and braces himself with both palms against Yotha's thighs, giving him a very explicit view of his own cock sliding in and out of the glorious heat.

''I can't believe you waited until we're in my parents' house to do this. Pervert.''

Yotha takes hold of Gun's cock; hot and erect in his palm, the ridged veins running from top to bottom. He tears his gaze away from Gun's cock to his face instead, coming to the conclusion that Gun's facial expression was so much more erotic than the action of fucking him. It looked as if he was floating on a cloud of ecstasy, a faint red flush spreading down his chest along, the muscles on his arms and shoulders bunched up where he's holding himself up with his palms against Yotha's thighs. 

''Yotha, I wanna cum. Touch me.'' Gun begs him bossily.

Again, there's no way Yotha can say no. He tightens his grip around Gun's cock, the pre-cum making the slide of his hand so much more smoother. With his thumb, he rubs the frenulum and Gun clenches around him so tightly that it feels like punch to Yotha's gut. The male writhes down on his cock with a cry, the interior muscles clenching and unclenching like a vice grip around Yotha and with how this is going, Yotha's not too far off either. His belly's doing that weird thing when he feels a sharp pull, heat clawing up his chest with each drop of Gun's hips. Yotha's strokes starts becoming a little more off rhythm, his fingers wet and sticky by now and just as he swipes his thumb along the slit, Gun does a full-body shiver and spurts his release all over Yotha's chest and stomach, staining it with streaks of white. 

The male yelps when Yotha, without pulling out, maneuvers them into a different position where Gun ends up on his back on the lush carpet. This angle allows Yotha to push in so much deeper, especially when the other's legs comes up to wrap around his waist. Worried that Gun might hurt his head despite the carpet being under him, Yotha cups the back of his head, mainly because it also gives him an excuse to fist his fingers in the long strands that Gun's been growing out. The sweat's dripping into his eyes and he tries to blink it away, focusing on Gun's pretty face beneath him. His chest burns with how much he's exerting himself and at a particularly hard, punishing thrust, Gun grabs his discarded t-shirt on the floor and bites down on it, muffling his own cries and whimpers.

Resisting the urge to bite down on Gun, Yotha hides his face against Gun's cheek instead, panting harshly when the release that he's running towards comes within reach, generously filling up the condom with a choked-out groan.

''Holy shit.'' Gun noses at his sweaty temple, a shaky hand coming up to stroke Yotha's head. ''I can feel you pulsing inside of me.''

There's a silent agreement that this would feel ten times better without a condom, but that's a discussion for another time. 

''There's a perfectly good bed right there and we didn't use it.'' Yotha starts laughing against Gun's reddened cheek, lifting himself up on his palms with a groan. Carefully, Yotha eases his cock out inch by inch, attentively checking Gun for any injuries that might look out of the ordinary. It's as if the pink swollen opening is trying to tempt him back in, but instead, Yotha slips the condom off and balls it up in a handful of tissue papers before chucking it into the wastebasket.

''I'm just gonna lie down here.'' Gun holds two thumbs up. ''In fact, I'll just lie here for the rest of my life.'' Grabbing a handful of tissues, he starts wiping Gun down, making sure to be extra tender as he cleans the area between his legs.

''The bathroom's down the hall, right?''

Gun nods his head, still refusing to move from his spot on the carpet. It feels icky to be wearing the same clothes as before, but Yotha does so anyway since he's definitely taking a shower later. He fervently prays that he doesn't run into anyone on the way to the bathroom. Inside, he gives himself a quick pat down with a damp towel and returns with a fresh damp towel for Gun.

''Do you want to take a shower first?''

''My legs are all wobbly, Yotha.'' As if fighting against gravity, Gun struggles to bring himself up into a sitting position, both of them having a good laugh when Yotha has to pull him up to his feet. ''Ugh, but it's going to be so gross to lie down on my bed. Can't you shower with me?''

''...and risk your dad throwing me out of the house for being indecent with his beloved son? I'll pass.''

''Ugh fine.'' Gun relents, but not before he drapes himself all over Yotha, his bottom lip jutting out slightly. ''Gimme a kiss and I'll go shower.''

Yotha indulges him (as always).

''...you call that a kiss?''

''Anything more and you won't even be able to stand on your feet, beagle.''

- / -

Chapter Text

Yotha immediately stubs the cigarette out with the heel of his boots when Santa finally exits from the back door of the club. Whatever he's about to say disappears into nothingness at the sight of the other, or more specifically, at what he's wearing. Gun has his favorite jeans on - the faded ones with the rips around his thighs (well, it's the one that Yotha loves seeing him in). Instead of his usual casual after-work attire of oversized t-shirts, he's got one of Yotha's button-down shirt on. It's loose on his smaller frame, the sleeves going past his wrists an inch or two, the first few buttons undone to show off the thin silver necklace draped around his neck.

Realizing that Yotha was staring, Gun promptly catches on, ''Hope you don't mind that I stole one of your shirt. I didn't have anything I could wear to work, and I didn't want to wear yesterday's clothes, so...'' After the weekend trip to Gun's family house, Yotha had managed to cajole the other into staying over at his instead. While he would usually drop Gun off at work, there was something he had to see to urgently, so Gun had shooed him off after much convincing that he was able to get to work just fine.

There was nothing special about the shirt - it was black, of course. Nothing that was too excessively pricey, but seeing Gun wearing something of his sparked off a feeling like no other. Mine, he's mine, Yotha's hind brain crows uselessly. Ever since they've progressed to becoming intimate, it's as if Yotha no longer has any control over his urges. Maybe it's because he's now free to kiss and touch to his heart's content, and also because Gun's all too willing too indulge Yotha's whims. It's safe to say that they're both insatiable, unable to keep their hands off each other long enough.

''Oh.'' Realization sets in for Gun when he pinpoints the reason as to why Yotha is staring. ''I know that look. It's just a shirt, Yotha.''

''I know, but it's my shirt and you're wearing it.'' There's a possessive heat to his tone that Yotha tries to keep at bay, but from the way Gun's looking at him, it's safe to say that he doesn't mind at all. 

''If I knew it'd invoke this sort of reaction, I'd have raided your wardrobe sooner. But, keep it down, big boy.'' Gun teases him, placing the flat of his palm against Yotha's chest to maintain some distance between them. 

However, Gun's words doesn't match his actions when he willingly allows Yotha to back up him up against the brick wall, uncaring of the fact that they were still within the club premises and that anyone leaving could walk out of that door and see them in such an intimate setting.

''Don't look at me like that, Yotha.''

''Like what?'' Yotha feigns ignorance, his hand sliding down the side of Gun's body before it finds it place on his hip. He inches his face closer, yet lingering out of reach just enough for it to be teasing. He sees the way Gun's eyes drifts down to his lips before his gaze flicks upwards once more to meet Yotha's.

''Like I'm the only one that exists for you. As if no one or anything else exists and all you can see is me.''

''You're not wrong.''

''You know I never am. Now, the sooner you get us home, the faster you can get me out of this shirt.''

Yotha gives Gun a very meaningful once over, ''Who said I want you out of it? I can fuck you just fine while you're still wearing it.''

- / -

Unfortunately, or fortunately (for Gun's, uh, well-being), sex had to wait when one of Yotha's men call him about a recent fuck-up. He catches the words like ''missing'' and ''incoming shipment'', watching as Yotha's jaw and shoulders grew progressively tenser with each passing second. By the time the call ends, Gun almost feels bad for the person on the other line when he thinks of the verbal thrashing Yotha is going to give him the next time. Any possibility of Yotha getting some rest for the remainder of the night seems non-existent now, the other immediately placing himself in front of his laptop to work through the issue. The best thing to do would be to leave Yotha alone to simmer down and deal with the problem, so Gun does just that. He takes a much-deserved soak in the tub, pleased when he realizes that Yotha has replaced his usual shampoo and body products with a much fancier brand that Gun had mentioned in passing before. He hadn't meant anything by it - they had walked past the store and Gun had simply remarked how much he loves the products. The warmth that Gun feels when he lowers himself into the tub is not from the water, but from the realization that Yotha pays attention to everything that he says.

Yotha's still parked in front of his laptop when Gun exits the bathroom. He looks considerably less tense, so Gun takes that as a good sign. He places himself behind Yotha's chair, gently kneading at the male's shoulders.

''I don't think I'll be done anytime soon.'' Yotha looks up at him apologetically. ''I'll go and work in the study so that I don't keep you up.''

Gun shakes his head, now shifting his thumbs to gently work on the tense muscles of Yotha's neck instead. ''It's okay. I always sleep better when you're around.'' Though it doesn't stop the nightmares from occurring, it's always comforting to find Yotha within reach. ''How bad is it?''

''It's lose-10-million-worth-of-goods bad. I promised the client we'd get it to him by the end of the week, so I have about two days max to fix this fuck-up.''

Gun doesn't want to speak on something that he doesn't have any experience on, but he knows Yotha wouldn't judge him for it. ''Do you think it might be an inside job?''

Yotha holds his gaze, contemplative, ''You think so too?''

''You dealt with the past shipments yourself and nothing like this happened. Yet, the first time you let someone else deal with it and it goes missing? A bit too suspicious. You know what they do in the movies, Yotha? You should line them up and start threatening to shoot them if no one speaks up. And then you really shoot one of them to prove a point.''

Yotha laughs and the faint furrowed lines on his forehead disappears, ''Have you been watching those kind of movies again when I'm not around?''

''I know you said you're not the mafia, but you could be.'' Gun spins Yotha's computer chair around and then straddles him, perching himself comfortably on the other's lap. ''I don't like seeing you so tense.'' He smooths his palms along the rigid line of Yotha's shoulders. ''But it's a good thing you have me.'' He gives Yotha a meaningful look. ''Don't you want to know why I was in the bathroom for so long?'' Instead of waiting for Yotha to answer, he lifts himself up slightly to lower down the sleep shorts that he has on before taking his seat on the male's lap once more. 

''Gun...'' Yotha can't seem to string any words at all when Gun strips off his t-shirt and drops it onto the floor, taking one of Yotha's hand to guide it where he wants it the most. He watches Yotha's face intently when the other slides a finger along the crease of his ass, hunger and lust swirling into one expression when the tip of Yotha's fingers brushes against the sticky stretched opening of Gun's hole.

''You-''

''Found the lube in the amenities cabinet.'' Gun works on unbuttoning and unzipping Yotha's pants, lowering it just enough for his cock to spring free from the confines of his boxer briefs. All it takes is a couple of firm strokes for Yotha's cock to chub up in Gun's hand. ''Let me take care of you tonight, Yotha.''

''....you know you don't have to.''

''I know, but I want to.'' And maybe Gun was just as insatiable as Yotha when it came to having sex with him. Without wasting another second, he lifts himself up enough to line Yotha's cock up against his lubed opening, taking his own sweet time to sink down on the engorged tip of Yotha's cockhead once he slips the condom on. He'll make fun of Yotha later for stashing condoms in almost every corner of the bedroom. 

''Fuck.'' The initial stretch of being penetrated hurts in the best of ways and Gun relishes in the sensation of knowing that it's Yotha.

''Slowly, baby.'' Yotha murmurs, his gaze fixed on Gun's pleasure-addled expression. 

Gun licks his lips in anticipation of finally bottoming out, needing to feel the stretch and filled. ''God really took his time perfecting you, huh? It's bad enough he made you so handsome, but a big cock too? I guess God does have favorites afterall.''

''Funny - because I'm starting to think that you were made just for me.''

Gun wants to reply, wants to say that Yotha's being a sap, but he's far too distracted by how fucking delicious it feels to be so full of cock. It's going to ache like hell tomorrow, that's for sure. Gun has to catch his breath when he finally bottoms out, taking a few seconds to bury his face against Yotha's neck while he waits for the pain to dissipate. Even though he was lubed and stretched, the current position made it feel like he was feeling so much more than he usually does. Gun whimpers in appreciation when Yotha kisses his temple, warm calloused palms stroking the knobs of his spine.

''Gun?''

His response is to wrap his arms loosely around Yotha's neck, finally lifting his head up so that Yotha can kiss him senseless. There's no finesse to it; just two people amped up on lust and want. 

''I'll take care of you tonight.'' Gun tells him again. ''All you have to do is sit back and watch me, Yotha.'' The initial sting of being penetrated has dwindled to a pleasurable ache instead, so Gun takes it as his cue to start moving. 

Oh, he's beginning to like this position a lot. Especially when Yotha's cupping and squeezing his ass cheeks like that, eyes completely hazy with the desire consuming him. 

''Fuck, what did I do to deserve you?''

There's nothing else to be said other than the sounds of Gun's ass cheeks slapping against Yotha's thighs with each fluid up-and-down movement of his hips. He's beginning to feel the burn in his thighs, but if anything, with how Yotha has his head tipped back and eyes shut in pure bliss, it's obvious that they're both not planning on drawing this out. Unhurried sex was for later once they've gotten the pent-up want out of their systems. Taking a moment to catch his breath, Gun lowers himself down until he fully bottoms out, circling his hips in a sensual grinding motion that has the veins on Yotha's neck straining from how he's trying to hold his orgasm back. 

''You alright?'' It's sweet that Yotha keeps himself lucid enough to still check up on Gun, comfortingly stroking his thighs.

''Mm, I have nothing to complain about when I've got your cock in me, Yotha. But I think I'm going to have you do the work for me now.'' 

''With pleasure.'' Yotha circles one arm around Gun's waist to keep him from falling off his lap.

Gun grips the back of Yotha's chair, almost embarassed by the squeal that spills past his lips when Yotha wastes no time fucking up into him. If it wasn't for the secure hold around his waist, Gun might have topped off Yotha's lap. They're both dripping sweat despite the room being air-conditioned, Gun more so than Yotha. He's pressed so close against Yotha, clinging onto the back of the chair for dear life as the tip of his cock rubs up and slides against the ridges of Yotha's faint abs, resisting the urge to stroke his cock until he gets off. Fuck, at this rate, Gun doesn't think he'll have a problem getting off untouched with how Yotha's hitting at his sweet spot with precision. The sound of their bodies coming together seems almost obscenely loud in the bedroom and Gun nearly fucking loses it when Yotha suddenly lifts him up with no struggle whatsoever. His first instinct is to wrap his legs around the male's waist, truly realizing today just how strong Yotha is. Gun isn't exactly tiny, but Yotha carries him over towards the bed like he weighs nothing.

He can only watch wide-eyed and panting, clutching at the sheets as a form of anchor when Yotha props both of Gun's legs up onto his shoulders, nearly fucking bends him in half and sinks his cock in as deep as physically possible. And then he's slamming in and out with a pace that can only be described as him trying to arrange Gun's guts from the inside out. He loses track, maybe it's been a minute or two, but the next graze of Yotha's cock against his prostate has Gun arching the upper half of his body off the mattress, his vision going momentarily black for a few seconds just as he comes completely untouched. He comes so hard that the first spurt hits his collarbone, his entire stomach cramping at how fucking fantastic it feels. Without really realizing it, he's clenching uncontrollably around Yotha's cock - as if desperate to milk him towards orgasm.

''Oh fuck, princess-'' As useless as his brain might be at the moment, Gun still registers the nickname that Yotha has spilled out in the spur of the moment, and he notices the way the other panics.

''Shit, Gun, I'm so-''

Gun doesn't let Yotha waste anytime apologizing. He cups Yotha's face in his hands and kisses him just as the other lowers his legs, Gun immediately taking the chance to wrap them around Yotha's waist instead to pull him in deeper.

''Say it again.'' 

Gun doesn't know what it is about Yotha and the nicknames that he has for Gun that drives him utterly insane with want. 

''Can I?''

''Please.'' Gun wants, needs to hear it again. ''Are you going to cum, Yotha?''

''So fucking close-'' A pause. ''-princess.''

Gun's cock gives a weak twitch, but that's all that he can manage for now. It doesn't take long before Yotha's own orgasm renders him out-of-breath and wordless, his hips bucking helpless as he empties his release into the condom. He knows they're probably still sometime away from fucking without a piece of latex between them, but Gun can only imagine what it'd be like when he finally gets to experience the sensation of Yotha finishing inside him. He pats Yotha's back comfortingly, waiting for the other to regain his footing enough to carefully pull out before he eases the condom off and tosses it into the bin underneath the table. 

Gun props himself up on his elbows, ''So, how are you feeling?''

''Like I could take on the world.'' Yotha climbs in next to him, looking very much sated.

Gun scoots closer just as Yotha stretches his arm out, letting him use it as a pillow. ''Princess, huh?''

Yotha colors slightly as he looks down at where Gun has his head propped on his arm, ''...was it too much? I hope you know that when I say it, it's not in a...bad way?'' It's sweet how Yotha doesn't want him to misunderstand. ''I just...I guess you can see it as me wanting to dote and spoil you, if that makes any sense?''

''As you should.'' Gun teases him before he raises himself up just enough to drop a kiss against Yotha's lips.

The plan was to keep it short and chaste, but Gun finds himself melting into the kiss when Yotha cups the back of his head, the other hand drifting lower and lower until he feels the familiar pressure the tip of a finger brushing against his opening. Gun whimpers into the kiss, curling his fingers against Yotha's chest.

''...you're insatiable, Yotha.''

''Says the person who's pushing his ass back against my finger. But how can I not want you where you're just so goddamn fuckable?'' 

''Please, you've seen me with morning hair and eye boogers.''

''Still very fuckable.'' Yotha kisses him again, his finger slipping in without much resistance. ''...you don't have a shift today, right?''

Gun playfully rolls his eyes at Yotha, ''Don't act like you don't have my schedule memorized, Yotha. You know it better than I do.''

''True.'' Yotha grins at him, not bothering to hide how smug he sounds. ''Then in that case, I don't have to worry about everyone asking you why you're walking funny.''

- / -

Chapter Text

''Hey.'' Gun pokes his head into the office at the club premises where Yotha has holed himself in, frowning over a year's excel-worth of inventory reports, unable to determine head or tail over this shitty task that Faifa has left behind.

While Yotha's wracking his brain and smoking himself to an early death over this, Faifa's currently enjoying himself in Hokkaido with Wine. 

''Ah, fuck.'' Yotha finally takes a proper look at the time displayed at the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. Close to 4 in the morning. Gun had ended his shift two hours ago. ''I'm sorry, baby. I lost track of the time.'' Yotha stubs his cigarette out on the (overflowing) ashtray, pressing the heel of his palm against his fatigued eyes. ''Let me pack up real quick and we'll head home.''

''It's okay, Yotha. I just wanted to check in to see if you need any help...'' Gun steps foot into the room, still clad in his outfit from the night's shift; a tight glossy burgundy miniskirt that would expose his ass cheeks with just one tiny movement, with a slit at the side that goes up so high that he might as well parade around without it. The corset hugging his upper frame is made up of completely sheer lace, cinched so perfectly at the back that it makes Yotha wonder how Gun had made it through his shift without passing out. But that's not the show-stealer of his outfit - the show stealer is the pair of Christian Louboutin 'So Kate' heels that Yotha had so generously gifted Gun with as a 'just-because' present. Well, they're actually more for himself because Yotha has more or less found out that he's got a thing for seeing Gun in pretty things. Doesn't matter what they are; lingerie, heels, blouses, or accessories. If they're pretty, into the cart they go.

''Fuck.'' Yotha wheels his chair back to make space for Gun, admiring the sculpted heels that encase Gun's feet so fucking perfectly. 

Gun lifts himself up to sit on the edge of Yotha's desk, making a show of lifting one leg and crossing it over the other, purposely pointing his foot out.

''Will you let me buy you another one?'' Yotha finds himself asking. ''The nude pink ones.''

It's no secret by now that Gun is all too aware that Yotha loves spending money on him. He's learned to just accept it instead of questioning the number of parcels that he finds sitting on the floor of Yotha's bedroom each time he comes over. Yotha admits that he tends to go overboard, but what's the point of earning all these money to not spend it? 

''You'll buy it for me even if I say no.'' Gun wags a finger at him, motioning for Yotha to wheel his chair closer to the desk. ''You said you'd come watch me during my shift tonight. You shouldn't make promises that you can't keep, Yotha.''

Damned inventory report.

Yotha swallows, keeping still when Gun uncrosses his barely legs and extends his right foot out - touching the polished tip of his heel against the noticeable bulge pressing against the zipper of Yotha's slacks. He allows the briefest moment of friction before dragging the thin stiletto heel right down the zippered seam of his boyfriend's pants. Yotha should be more worried than aroused about the damage that 120mm stiletto heel is capable of causing. 

''Poor Yotha, you've been so stressed tonight, haven't you? But I also need to teach you a lesson for promising me something but not delivering it. You're not fucking me tonight, Yotha.''

''Gun.'' Yotha lets out a punched out groan. ''Baby, that's just too cruel.''

''But-'' Gun once against lowers his heeled-foot to rest against the Yotha's clothed erection, rubbing it with more insistence this time round. ''-I'll let you get off. You get to choose, Yotha; my mouth, my hand, or...'' Yotha hisses in pain-filled pleasure when Gun presses the tip of the heel where his balls are. ''-my foot.''

''...can't it be a 3-in-1 package deal?''

Gun smiles at Yotha's attempt at a negotiation, ''Five seconds to choose, teng. Or else, it'll just be you, the lotion you keep tucked in the bottom drawer and your hand for tonight.''

Yotha loves all three - the wet heat of Gun's skilled mouth that's capable of bringing him to the edge within minutes, especially when Gun's in the mood for Yotha to get really rough to the point where he's gagging and coughing. Gun's slender fingers deserves a shoutout of its own as well, considering that Yotha has spent fucking hours being edged until it feels like he might pass out. And fuck, those gorgeous polished heels...that's clearly the winner for tonight.

When Yotha spurts streaks of thick white cum all over Gun's heeled feet twenty minutes later, satisfied yet yearning for more, Gun toes the heels off and slides off the table.

''Now you've got a reason to buy my new ones.''

''Gun.'' Yotha looks down miserably at his still erect cock. ''You can't leave me like this.'' He knows the relief must be showing on his face Gun straddles him, the latex skirt riding up his ass cheeks where he so very teasingly rubs the smooth rim of his hole against Yotha's cock. 

His cock throbs in tripled interest, Yotha uselessly jerking his hips up even though there's no chance of them fucking without a condom.

''I told you, Yotha. You're not fucking me tonight.'' It's maddening how Gun knows how to play Yotha, reaching a hand back to grasp the erect length where he teasingly slides it between his ass cheeks. ''I need to make sure you don't do it again.'' And maybe it's okay if Yotha doesn't get to fuck Gun - as long as his boyfriend keeps grinding down on his cock like that and Yotha gets to orgasm for the second time that night, he'll-

With a grin that's far too wide, Gun lets go of Yotha's cock (to his horror) and carefully climbs off Yotha's lap, purposely showing his back to Yotha before bending down to pick up his stained heels. ''I'll see you downstairs in ten minutes, Yotha. Might want to take care of that before we make our way home.''

''Gun.''

''Ten minutes, or I'm driving your precious Porsche home myself.''

- / -

Yotha does make him pay for it.

Gun's immensely thankful for the fact that Faifa is in Japan and that Yotha's dad is on a four day fishing trip with a group of friends. The housekeepers generally don't work during the weekends, and Gun knows for certain they're not around this week. There isn't a flat surface in the house where Yotha hasn't taken him, both fueled by their sky high libido. Though their refractory period is nowhere as quick as they'd like it to be, it's not enough to dim the lust that seems to be ever-so-constant. It's a constant loop of fucking, making out, grabbing whatever snack from the pile that Yotha has stashed in his drawers for, uh, moments like these. The sheets are completely ruined and Yotha will have no choice but to throw them later, but it's the least of their concern for now. Gun can barely stand on his own two feet, but he doesn't complain when Yotha presses him up against the ceiling-to-floor window of his second floor bedroom - the one facing the main gates. If anyone just so happens to walk past and look up, they'd see Gun being fucked against the window from behind, his sweaty palms smearing prints against the pristine glass, the precum from his cock leaving trails against the glass.

He's even more aroused by the fact that the security camera recently installed in Yotha's bedroom is recording the entire thing. Yotha had first gotten it installed after Gun began to sleep over more frequently (for Yotha's own peace of mind), but recently, they've discovered that it's genuinely hot-as-fuck to watch themselves. They'll watch this later; Gun squealing when Yotha roughly yanks at his hair to pull his head back, leaning in to suck a mark against the one that's currently fading. They'll watch as Yotha presses him against the glass window once more, pressing in so deep from behind that Gun can do nothing but take it - very much aroused that he's being put on display like this in broad daylight, secretly hoping that someone would walk past and catch them at it.

Once, Gun had even jokingly said that they should mosaic their faces and upload these videos up to a website for him to earn some money on the side.

Deep down, he knows Yotha would never allow such a thing - this side of Gun was only privy to Yotha, his to relive and enjoy, the footages serving as fodder for masturbation on days that Gun isn't with him. Yotha was far too possessive to let anyone else on the Internet lust over Gun. 

And maybe Gun had planned for this to happen. He knew the stunt he had pulled yesterday would only serve to excite Yotha. Denying Yotha brings about such a delicious reaction and maybe, just maybe, Gun was in the mood to be treated manhandled and used in such a way. Sure, he's confident most of the time, but there are days where he doesn't want to outrightly ask (even though he knows Yotha will never deny him).

Though both of them don't say it out loud, they both know that Gun has Yotha wrapped so ridiculously tightly around his finger, and that he has Yotha eating right out of his hand.

Just the way it's always been.

- / -

Chapter Text

Gun is a hot topic amongst the employees at the club. Even though Yotha and him hasn't made it (somewhat) official yet, everyone knows Gunyukhol Jiraroj is off limits. Messing with Gun would mean having to deal with Yotha, and some of the new dancers have learned that the hard way. There's talks of favoritism (of course there is), about how Gun gets the best shifts and tables because he's sleeping with the co-owner, but he pays it no mind. Tongues will wag no matter what - what's important is that he does what he gets paid to do, and that's to put on a damn good show for the patrons that frequent the club. Bang On has always been known for their dancers and performances, along with the exclusive clientele that they draw in and ever since Gun joined, more businessmen have started flocking to the club. It means good business for Faifa and Newton, but it's a huge pain for Yotha. Nevertheless, everyone's always on their best behavior with Yotha around since word has gotten round that he's broken his fair share of arms and noses for customers who can't quite keep their hands to themselves.

It's the end of another fantastic shift - Gun's skin sticky with perspiration and glitter, the male impatiently pulling off his fake lashes because he can't stand how they're making his eyes feel. The clack of his stiletto heels against the floor echoes loudly as he walks down the corridor that leads towards the changing room - god, he can't wait to slip out of those and change into his crocs. Yotha's working late tonight and wouldn't be able to pick him up, so Gun had offered to work an extra two hours since he doesn't have much planned for the night either. There's a certain pep to his step as he unfolds the crumpled bills, grinning as he counts more 1000 baht bills than the 500 baht ones. Man, some of these customers were really generous. Still, no one is as generous as his Yotha. Gun has stopped trying to fight the male on his generosity, accepting it as it is because there really is no telling Yotha no. He now has a supplementary credit card of his own with a limit that seems way too high, Yotha insisting that he just charge everything to that card. Gun had made a joke about him being Yotha's sugar baby, and the male had given him a straight-faced reply, ''Huh, maybe you calling me daddy wouldn't be that bad.''. Right, that was something to consider the next time they're in the bedroom.

Distracted, Gun stuffs the now neatly folded bills into the back pocket of his latex shorts and types out a short text to tell Yotha that he's done with his shift and that he'll stay the night at Yotha's (as always). Yotha has suggested more than once that Gun just end the lease to his condo early and move in with him.

''Ask me to be your boyfriend first and I'll do just that.''

Fuck, Gun knows that he's so close to being asked because Yotha's been extra generous with his sweet words and affection these days.

If Gun wasn't so distracted, he'd have noticed two of the other dancers that he's not on that close terms with sneaking up on him. He nearly takes a tumble face first when he feels himself being shoved forwards from the back, hastily grappling for something to grab onto as he stumbles into the dressing room. His ankle twists unpleasantly and Gun lands on his knees with a thud, the pain rocketing when it makes contact with the floor. He turns around angrily, but is met with the door of the changing room being slammed shut. Gun scrabbles onto his feet, panic blooming in his stomach when he hears the lock turn.

Whoever it is on the other side has trapped him inside.

''Hey!'' Gun pounds his fist against the door, trying not to let the panic show in his tone. ''Seriously, what the fuck?!'' He pounds on the door again and hears the laughter coming from the other side, though he can't quite pinpoint who it is.

Gun takes a look around the room, trying to determine if there'd be anyone coming back down to get changed, but he knows that he's the last one for tonight. Most of the dancers had left earlier at 1am, with only Gun and Loei choosing to extend their shifts to 3am. And Gun had just waved Loei off after his boyfriend had picked him up, which meant that he was alone. Locked in this room. Gun pushes down the panic that swells over him, fumbling for his phone that's on the floor. The screen protector is cracked from when he had taken the fall. The signal bar at the top right hand corner of the phone shows only 1 bar - the basement area has been known for its shitty signal, considering the area that they're in as well. It's why most of them usually head up to the first floor to answer calls or send text messages when the network is so much better.

''Please, please, please.'' Gun prays under his breath, his throat closing up when he taps on the 'Send' button.

The message doesn't send.

Gun rapidly taps on the 'Retry' button, his hands beginning to tremble like it had when he had first encountered being locked in that storage room.

No, no, no, no - he's going to be fine.

Gun thinks of Yotha, willing himself to calm down. If Yotha realizes that Gun hasn't texted back, he's bound to realize that something's wrong. But how long will Gun have to wait until someone realizes that he's stuck inside here? Resisting the urge to throw up, Gun shakily toes his heels off and pads over to a corner of the room where the sofa is, unknowingly raising his thumb to his lips so that he can start biting on it. If he succumbs to this fear, he's going to start experiencing cold sweat and heart palpitations and the anxiety will consume him for hours. And yet, Gun can't quite bring himself to keep calm, not when this is his worst fear.

Again, he tries to check if the message has 'Sent', but the red exclamation mark right next to his message mocks him.

Please.

- / -

''Seriously, Gun, you wouldn't believe the audacity some of these idiots have-'' Yotha grouches once he steps inside the bedroom, eager to reunite with his boyfriend after the stress of tonight.

The first thing that Yotha registers is how dark the bedroom is. If Gun was here, there would at least be one night light switched on to keep him company until Yotha returns. This didn't make any sense - Gun had texted him at three in the morning to tell Yotha that'd be coming over to sleep. It was now nearly five and Gun's side of the bed was empty, his bag nowhere to be found as well. Yotha immediately checks his phone to see if there's any messages that he might have missed, but there's none. Immediately, he gives Gun a call, and the fear mounts in him when the call doesn't go through. Gun wouldn't not text him to keep him updated - it's the one thing that he has always promised Yotha he'd do. The next one that Yotha calls is Faifa.

''Are you still at the club?''

''No, I left about thirty minutes ago. What's wrong?''

''Did you see Gun leave the club earlier?''

''I don't know - he worked until 3, and I was probably still in the office then.'' Sensing the panic in his brother's tone, Faifa tries to pacify him. ''Maybe he went back to his own place.''

''Without telling me? No way.'' Yotha starts to pace the bedroom floor. ''Just...fucking think, Ai'Fah. He usually says goodbye to you before he leaves. Did he do that tonight?''

''Yotha, I really can't-''

Yotha loses his cool and yells into the phone, ''Think, Faifa, god fucking damn it!''

''Okay, okay! He ended his shift at 3 and usually if he does that, he'd stop by the office by 3.30 to say goodbye. But...I don't think he did that tonight. Look, P'Arm was on bartender duty until 4 today. I'll give him a call to check if he saw Gun leave the club.''

''I'm making my way to the club.''

Yotha beats more red lights than he should and he'll receive the summons for it, no doubt about that, but fuck if he cares. All he can think about is where Gun might be. He tries not to think of the worst case scenarios - of Gun being taken because of him. No. If someone had taken Gun, Yotha would have known - a ransom or something. Some sort of threatening message. But this was worse, wasn't it? Not knowing what might have happened to Gun. Faifa's message comes up a few minutes later: P'Arm didn't see him leave the club.

''Fuck.'' Yotha grips the steering wheel, pressing further down on the accelerator. 

He pulls up at the entrance fifteen minutes later just as Faifa's car comes into view as well, his twin stepping out and looking equally as worried.

''Do you think he's still inside?''

''P'Arm didn't see him leave the club. Loei and Gun were the only ones who worked until 3, but P'Arm saw Loei leaving. Gun came back in after sending him off.'' Faifa messes up the passcode on the first try, out of nerves more than anything else.

''Who else were on shift tonight with Gun?''

Faifa desperately tries to recall the roster that he had arranged, ''Ah, fuck, fuck - let me think.'' Faifa finally gets the passcode right. ''Piti, Prem, Chaow-''

''Chaow?'' Yotha echoes, vaguely finding that name familiar. ''I think Gun mentioned him to me before.''

''You think he'd do something to Gun?''

There's only one place in the club with horrible signal. Yotha hurries his way down the stairs leading to the changing rooms on the basement floor, Faifa hot on his heels. He pushes down on the doorknob, but it doesn't yield.

''The keys. Get the fucking keys, Faifa.'' Yotha's own voice is shaking because he can't imagine the fear that Gun must be in right at this second. 

Faifa rushes back upstairs to where his office is to get the spare keys to the changing room and every second feels like a goddamn minute to Yotha. He's almost out of his fine with nerves by the time his brother returns, urgently jamming the key into the lock before twisting the handle down. 

''Gun?''

Instant relief floods through Yotha when he finds Gun curled up on the floor, because it means that he's here and nowhere else, but it's quickly replaced by worry and alarm when he crouches next to the male and realizes how raw and bloody his fingers are.

''No...did he...''

''He must have scratched at the doors.'' Gun still has his eyes squeezed shut, refusing to open them despite Yotha trying to coax him that he's no longer alone. ''Gun. Gun, open your eyes. It's Yotha. I'm here now.'' He pulls the trembling figure into his lap, realizes just how clammy the male is to the touch. 

The sight makes his heart ache and Yotha swears he'll make whoever did this pay tenfold.

''Gun, please.'' Yotha coaxes, rubbing his shoulders and hands comfortingly. ''I promise you I'm here. Just open your eyes for me, princess. Please.'' He clasps Gun's blood-stained fingers in his, giving it the lightest of squeeze to tell Gun that he's not dreaming.

It takes a while for Gun to open his eyes, but when he does and registers that it really is Yotha, he breaks out into the most heart-wrenching sobs Yotha has ever heard. The male immediately clutches at him, desperately trying to mold himself against Yotha.

''Shh, baby, it's okay. It's okay.'' Yotha soothes him fiercely, rubbing his back repeatedly. ''I'm here now. I'm here. That's it - slow breaths, baby.'' He tucks Gun's face against the crook of his neck, cupping the back of his head tenderly in attempt to calm the male down. 

''I'll go get the first aid kit. And I'll check the security footage.'' 

Yotha simply nods, his only focus right now was Gun. He doesn't know how long they remain like that - Gun refusing to let go of him even though Yotha reassures him that he's going nowhere. After awhile, he manages to coax the male into moving towards the sofa instead.

''Did you see who it was?'' Yotha asks later once Gun has calmed down considerably - he's holding a mug of warm water in his hands after Yotha has meticulously cleaned and bandaged up his wounded fingers. He'll take Gun to the clinic later to get it checked.

''No. I was walking back to the changing room and texting you. After that, someone shoved me really hard into the room and before I could get a good look at their face, they slammed and locked the door shut.'' Gun tightens his hold around the mug. ''I tried to stay calm. I really did. I knew you'd come looking for me. But fuck, just...just being locked in there had me so fucking terrified, Yotha.''

Yotha holds him close again, kissing Gun's temple. ''I'm sorry. I shouldn't have worked late today.''

''Never apologize for things out of your control, Yotha.''

Faifa comes back into the room, lips pursed into a thin grimace, ''I checked the security footage. It was Chaow and Piti.''

''I should have known - P'Arm's always telling me to be wary of them because their jealousy reeks. I didn't think they'd go so far though.'' 

''Don't worry, Gun.'' Faifa gives him a brief squeeze on the shoulder. ''I'll deal with them-''

''No. I'm going to deal with them, Faifa.''

''Yotha...'' Faifa sighs, but he also knows that arguing with his twin when Gun is involved is pointless. ''I know you're mad, but there's other ways to deal with them than what you have in mind.''

''No.'' Gun says suddenly, looking up at Faifa with a determined glint to his eye. ''Let Yotha deal with them, Faifa. They deserve it for what they did to me.'' He then turns to Yotha, placing his hand over the male's. ''You won't let them get away with it so easily, will you?''

''Of course not. I'll make sure I'll pay it back tenfold for what they did to you, Gun.''

- / -

The water swells and splashes over the edge of the bathtub when Gun leans back against Yotha's chest, comfortably nestling his head against the male's shoulder. He's still a bit shaky from what had happened tonight - mentally exhausted was more like it.

''Would it be too much for me to ask you to quit your job?''

Gun muffles his laugh against the underside of Yotha's jaw, ''And live on what money, Yotha?''

''Mine, of course.'' Yotha hugs him, lacing his fingers against Gun's stomach. ''I'm sorry. I...wasn't thinking straight. I know how much you love what you do.''

''It's okay. You must have gotten pretty worried.''

''Fucking terrified.'' Yotha nuzzles Gun's temple, breathing in the damp scent of his pine-scented shampoo. ''It's unhealthy, but I don't like not knowing where you are, what you're doing - I'm sure you didn't sign up for that when you agreed to...this.''

''I wouldn't be opposed to you putting an air-tag on me at all times.'' Gun means it as a joke - well, sort of. ''I mean, location apps aren't that accurate. And what if I forget my phone?''

Yotha's silence is answer enough.

''You shouldn't give me such ideas, Gun. You'd really be surprised at the lengths I'd go to when it comes to you. I don't want to scare you off.''

''I don't scare easily, Yotha. I wouldn't be here if I was.'' Gun plants a wet kiss against Yotha's cheek. ''Your peace of mind matters as well. That's what I'm saying, so....I won't hold it against you. Just so you know.''

''You're too fucking good to me.'' Yotha says, his words muffled against Gun's damp skin. ''God, I fucking love you, Gun.''

Gun stills, and so does Yotha, because that's the first time the male has ever uttered those three words to him. He doesn't dare to look at Yotha, but decides that he can't avoid it, not with them stretched out in the same bathtub.

''You really mean it?''

''You know I don't say things that I don't mean.'' Yotha gently cups his jaw, cocking his head to the side to get a better look at Gun. ''I don't know why I took so long to say it. I keep taking it for granted that you'll always be here, that I'll wake up and come home to you and I think tonight...I don't think I've felt fear that deep before. I'm sorry I kept you waiting for so long.''

Gun smiles - so achingly sweet because he's so very grateful that he's not going to get his heart broken. As much as he has said that he'll respect Yotha's decision (be it love or not), it's a heartbreak that he'll need time time getting over. And maybe then, Gun may never bring himself to love another person as much as he loves Yotha.

''I'm sure you'll find one or two ways to make it up to me for making me wait so long. But, just so you know, I love you too. I mean, I've come to terms with it for a very long time, but I just-''

''-didn't say anything because you didn't want to pressure me.'' Yotha rests his forehead against Gun's temple with a quiet sigh. ''Like I said, you're way too good to me, princess.''

''All I can say is that you're definitely worth the wait, Yotha.''

-/ -

Chapter Text

''Yotha. I love you and everything, but it's been three days and you need to go back to work.''

''But-''

''I'm going to be fine.'' Gun rubs his boyfriend's arm in what he hopes is a consoling gesture. ''I'm going to make full use of this bed rest - maybe I'll finally start cleaning up that mess in the walk-in wardrobe. Which-'' He raises a finger accusingly at the male. ''-is mostly your fault since you keep buying me new things. Not that I'm not thankful.'' He kisses Yotha on the cheek once, twice, thrice. ''I'll be fine at home.''

He knows not much that he says is going to assure Yotha, not after what had happened to him. Faifa had insisted that Gun take two weeks of paid leave and even though he had insisted that he was ready to return to work, needing some form of normalcy and routine into his line once more, P'Arm had threatened him with excessive ear-bleeding nagging if Gun was to step foot into the club. Yotha has been glued to his side since that night, watching Gun like a hawk and while it's awfully sweet, it's also not possible for the male to be around every second.

''Tomorrow.'' Yotha bargains with him. ''I'll go back to work tomorrow.''

''What am I going to do with you?'' He sighs at how clingy his boyfriend is being, but that's Yotha and though Gun may not verbalize it out loud (not wanting to embarrass the other), he loves a clingy Yotha. None of that ''I'm-a-nonchalant-boyfriend'' kind of shit - Gun would never in a million year settle for that. ''Fine. But you're going to work tomorrow, or I'm going to give your por a call so that he can deal with you.''

''Wow. Showing off how close you are with him, huh?''

''Of course.'' Gun flicks imaginary hair off his shoulder, narrowing his eyes slightly at Yotha. ''I'm that well-liked, so be very mindful of how you treat me, Khun Yotha.''

He makes a move to get off the bed, but finds himself hauled back when Yotha curls a muscled arm around his waist, pulling Gun back against his chest.

''Sassy now that you've gotten an ''I love you'' out of me, huh?'' Fingers skitters against his bare belly when Kanghan slips a hand beneath his t-shirt.

''Stop it.'' Gun squirms and smacks his boyfriend's hand away, fighting to launch himself out of Yotha's hold because if they continue to reside in bed, it's going to be another hour or two before Gun gets to actually eat. ''I'm going downstairs to make breakfast.'' With much difficulty and a lot of effort, Gun manages to squirm away. ''You said you wanted to work out.''

''Sex is exercise too. Plus, it's way more enjoyable than running on the treadmill. Or lifting weights.''

''Sure, but you know I like seeing you walk around the house in those sleeveless shirts.'' He purposely gives Yotha's firm bicep a squeeze, finding his own self distracted.

The thing about Yotha is that he's so easy to deal with when Gun's the one doing the talking. His boyfriend gives him a thoughtful look, ''....it's been awhile since I lifted some weights.''

See? All too easy. With Yotha deciding that he'll work out in the home gym, Gun gets take his time in the shower (undisturbed), because whenever he's joined by Yotha, getting clean ends up being the very last thing on their mind. Look, he fucking loves the sex, alright? But Yotha's libido is capable of reaching all-new heights and Gun would sometimes like to seat without feeling he's been through a marathon or something. He swaps his t-shirt from yesterday night with one of Yotha's rock band t-shirts instead, liking how oversized it looks on him. There's no one at home except for them - Yotha's dad was in Chiang Mai with Newton and from what Gun's seen on Instagram, Wine has Faifa hijacked on a last-minute trip to Phuket. There's no need for modesty, so Gun opts for something comfortable, but yet a little bit naughty to wear beneath the shirt. It drives Yotha absolutely feral whenever he catches a glimpse of lace and the torn pairs Gun has had no choice but to discard bears witness to that.

As Gun makes his way to the kitchen, he can hear the loud rock music blaring from the room that Yotha has converted into a home gym. He resists the urge to peek in, determined that both of them don't get distracted this morning. A quick peek in the fridge shows him that there's a carton of eggs, green onions, mushrooms and whatever he might need to make a decent breakfast. The new coffee machine that Yotha has purchased (for him - just because Gun had looked at it twice, ooh-ing and aah-ing when the promoter had showed him how to use it) takes some time getting used to. Gun spends a good ten minutes fiddling with the knobs and frowning at the manual until he gets the gist of what he's supposed to do. Usually, it's Yotha who makes him his coffee, but no worries - just because he's a kept man now doesn't mean every shred of independence has left his body.

(It has)

Once that's settled, Gun rummages in the cupboard for pancake mix. He could make a shrimp and green onion pancake for them to dip in the thai chilli sauce that Yotha's dad had brought back from his most recent business trip. Now, Gun's no domestic queen in the kitchen, but he's decent. No one's ever been sent to the hospital eating what he's made before. There's probably too much green onions and white pepper in the batter now, but it's too late for adjustments. However, it sizzles beautifully in the oiled frying pan, the mouth-watering scent wafting up a few minutes later, so Gun considers it a success. 

''Coffee and-'' Yotha peeks over his shoulder. ''-shrimp pancakes. All without burning the kitchen down.''

''Hah.'' Gun flips the pancake over to the other side. ''Don't wait too long to wife me up.''

He tries his damndest not to get distracted when Yotha lifts the hem of his shirt up, ''Seriously, Gun?''

''No one told you to look.'' Spatula in one hand, he uses his free hand to slap Yotha's hand away from straying further down his thigh. ''Yotha.''

''You're dressed in my shirt and panties, Gun. How am I not supposed to touch?''

''Consider it an exercise in self-control.''

''You know I have none when it comes to you.''

''That's-'' Gun loses his train of thoughts when Yotha hugs him around the waist, dropping a kiss against the junction of his neck. ''Yotha. I really don't want to burn this.''

His boyfriend takes pity on him and presses a fleeting kiss to his shoulder this time round, but not before he gives Gun's ass a firm squeeze.

''You- if you're not going to be useful, then get out of here.''

Yotha's laugh rings out in the kitchen as he picks up his mug of coffee. Gun's thankfully left alone for the next twenty minutes, cutting up fruits and adding them to the bowl of cherry tomatoes that he had briefly rinsed under the tap earlier. He brings everything out, Yotha already seated at the dining table - iPad in hand, the deep furrow of his brows an indication that he's reading something work-related that he finds stupid. 

''What's wrong?''

''I asked my estate agent to shortlist some houses for me to look at, but everything he's picked out doesn't really suit either of our tastes. Maybe I'll engage someone else.''

Gun picks up a piece of the pancake that he's cut into bite-sized pieces with a pair of chopsticks, ''Why are you looking for a house?''

''This house belongs to my dad, so I want someplace I can call my own. Not just mine, ours.

''Ours? You mean - you want me to...?''

Yotha looks as if him as if he's uttered something in a foreign language, ''Why would I buy a house and not ask you to move in with me?''

''I, well, I just thought-'' Gun doesn't exactly know how to react to the fact that Yotha wants them to stay together. ''You know I don't earn that much. How am I going to pay my share of the rest?''

God, it's almost comical how offended Yotha looks at the idea of Gun paying for his share of something. ''Gun. Have I, throughout the period that we've been together - even before I officially told you that I love you, ever implied that I'm the sort of man who'd do 50-50 when it comes to financial-related things? Because if I have, you might as well take my gun in the safe and shoot me with it.''

''Now you're just being dramatic.''

Yotha laughs and picks up a cherry tomato, pressing it against Gun's lips, ''Maybe, but I think it's safe to say that I've had you in all my plans ever since I decided that you're someone that I need by my side.''

''Even before the official I love you?''

Yotha nods, ''There's a lot of risks in what I do. If something does happen to me, then I want to have the peace of mind knowing that you're well-ta-'' Gun doesn't want to hear another word, so he presses his palm against Yotha's mouth.

''Nope. No talks about that.''

''Gun.''

''I know. I know, okay? You think I don't know that what you do isn't risky?'' He doesn't need to tell Yotha that sometimes, his nightmares of being stuck in dark, enclosed spaces have been replaced by nightmares of losing Yotha instead. ''Every day, I'm terrified that I'm going to get a call from Newton or Faifa that something happened to you. But it's something I need to accept because it's what you want to do, and I respect that. I just......I don't like talking about it. I promise that we'll talk about this someday, in detail.''

Just not today.

Yotha nods and reaches out to take Gun's hand in his, squeezing it gently as an apology for ruining the mood.

''Talking about plans, I've been thinking that I might not stay on at Bang On. I've saved up enough money from working there, so I've been looking at our choreographer classes to get myself certified. I've always wanted to teach dance, but the certification classes cost a lot.''

''Whatever it is that you want to do, I'll support you. As long as you're happy, baby. That's all that matters to me.''

He knows Yotha will insist on paying, but that's a debate for next time. He sets out of his chair and settles into Kanghan's lap instead, kissing him soundly on the lips, ''I really got lucky meeting you, huh? Being a kept man isn't too bad afterall when it's you.''

''You like it.'' Yotha points out, brushing his knuckle against the curve of Gun's cheekbone - amused. 

''Don't pretend that you don't get off on it yourself.'' Gun murmurs against his boyfriend's lips, the laughter turning into that of a hitched gasp when Yotha kisses him this time round, firmly cupping him by the nape. The edge of the table is unrelenting against his back, but Gun gives it no mind as he slides his tongue against Yotha's, rocking down teasingly in the male's lap.

''God, you two just don't have a limit, huh?''

Gun suppresses a groan and drops his head against Yotha's shoulder. Yotha's sighs out loud when Faifa comes into view, ''Why the hell are you home? Aren't you supposed to be in Phuket?''

''I was, but I made the mistake of eating raw salmon for lunch yesterday and it has not been fun.'' Faifa clutches at his side and holds up a hand, ''Fuck, I've got to poop before I make a mess right on this floor.''

Gun tries not to laugh when Faifa all but run towards the direction of the guest bedroom, his loud voice echoing around the house as he yells, ''Hold on, Faifa. Just a bit more!!''

''So much for our relaxing weekend together.''

''See? This is why I need to get us a house asap.''

- / -