Chapter 17: The Father

The sun had barely risen when Hong and Nut slipped out of the house.

Nut's parents walked with them, barely awake, traces of sleep faintly marking their eyes and cheeks.

Outside, the fog of the morning wrapped around them like a cold but welcome embrace.

Boom wasn't awake thankfully.

Or maybe he was, but he smartly chose to stay away.

Either ways, Hong was happy he didn't get to see his infuriating face.

They didn't speak much as they walked to the car. Nut and Hong both gave them warm hugs and slid into their seats. Then Nut started the car, the low rumble of the engines a roar in the stillness.

He pulled out and with a final wave, they both drove away.

The drive was quiet at first.

Hong stared straight ahead, fingers tapping rhythmically on his thigh, before finally settling on knee. Then slowly, he turned to Nut with sudden, peaked interest.

Nut kept his eyes fixed on the narrow road that wound away from the county and into the city, but he could feel the weight of Hong's gaze sliding over to him, hungry and heavy as always.

Hong's eyes moved over Nut's profile— slow and sensual— like he was memorizing every line and curve. The strong slope of his jaw, the small bump in his nose, the faint stubble that had grown overnight, the way his lips parted slightly when he concentrated on driving.

Hong's eyes misted and his mouth dried. The air in the car changed, warm and thick, despite the cold outside.

Homg didn't say anything, didnt try to speak.

He just... looked.

Until he grew even weary of that.

They barely reached the main highway when Hong's control snapped.

Nut felt it before he saw it— Hong's hand moving. It was innocent at first, coming to rest on the center console, fingers loose, caressing.

By the next second it lifted, slow but sure, and crossed the small space between them, settling on Nut's shoulder, squeezing in a way that seemed casual.

But Hong's hands were soft and warm and his touch felt... deliberate.

Nut's grip on the wheel tightened a fraction, sweat gathering at his pores.

The innocence quickly faded.

Hong's palm slid down, unhurried in the way that wasn't careful but learning. It went over the cotton of Nut's shirt, then back up to his collarbone— touching skin and fabric in a way that made Nut shiver despite the heat.

Then it went lower... again.

When his fingers found the outlined peak of Nut's nipple, he grazed at first— soft, barely there, not enough to coax a reaction.

But then he pinched— hard enough to make Nut suck in a sharp breath. The car swerved slightly before Nut steadied it.

Hong's eyes glinted, and a mischievous smirk formed on his lip.

"Hong..." Nut's voice came out rough, a weak warning.

Hong didn't answer.

Instead he leaned closer and his other hand responded by joining the first, cupping the opposite side of Nut's chest, rolling the nipple between thumb and finger until it stiffened under his touch.

Nut's throat worked. A loud gulp echoed in the quiet car— tempted, distracted, and Nut shook his head to right his focus.

Hong's hands didn't stop. They kept pinching and teasing, coaxing soft sounds out of Nut, until his right hand moved lovwer. It slowly dragged over Nut's covered abs, lingering and possessive, tracing every hard ridge before venturing ever lower.

And lower. Until his palm pressed flat against the growing hardness trapped inside Nut's jeans.

Nut gasped and his hips jerked once, involuntarily, grip tightening on the wheel.

Hong liked that sound. He wanted to hear it again. So he curled his fingers, and rubbed in firm, lazy circles.

Nut's breathing became loud— short, heavy pulls of air through his nose and lips. His fingers bit the leather of the wheel, and his knuckles paled with the force.

Hong kept palming him, tracing the shape of him with steady pressure— lip caught between his teeth.

There was no rush, no desire for quick relief.

There was just a slow, tortuous rhythm that felt like everything and gave nothing at all.

It was enough to make Nut's thighs tense, to make unwilling, silent gasps fall out of his mouth.

The denim was felt thick. There was too much barrier, and still it felt like Hong was ghosting him.

Nut lasted maybe sixty more seconds before he lost his patience. And maybe his sanity.

He pulled the car hard to the right.

It bumped onto the uneven dirt path off the asphalt, the tires crunching grass and gravel, until it rolled to a stop under the low branches of a lone tree.

Then he turned it off.

Hong didn't wait.

He unbuckled his seatbelt in one swift motion, climbed over the center console, and straddled Nut's lap in the driver's seat, pressing him down with his weight.

Their mouths crashed together— hard, desperate, no patience left to spare.

Hong kissed Nut like he was starving.

Maybe because he truly was?

His eyes opened and drank in Nut's turned on expression, kissing back with just as much fervor, his desire spiking to another level.

Yes, he was definitely starving.

His teeth caught Nut's bottom lip and bit down— not playful or careful.

It was hard.

Hard enough that Nut groaned aloud into his mouth, the sound raw and surprised. The sting bloomed sharp, then melted into heat when Hong sucked softly the bruised skin— an intoxicating contrast.

Nut's hands flew to Hong's hips, fingers digging in.

Hong licked into his mouth, deep and filthy, tasting every corner like he wanted to crawl inside and just live there.

Nut tried to keep up, tried to match him. But Hong was everywhere, all over him.

His teeth nipped, his tongue licked, his mouth sucked, his hips ground against Nut's hard length.

The car suddenly felt too hot, the air, the space too tight. Nut moaned and broke away from their kiss.

"We're in public..." He managed, voice cracked. "Hong— fuck— we're—"

Hong's mouth had moved to the side of Nut's face— wet, open-mouthed kisses along his cheekbone, then his jaw. Then Hong licked a long, wet stripe up to the side of Nut's face, slow and deliberate, relishing salt and skin on his tongue.

Nut's breath hitched and he shuddered hard, hips bucking up into Hong's ass.

"Want you right now." Hong whispered in his ear, soft, almost pleading. "Been wanting to fuck you since the first day I saw you."

Nut trembled. "Hong—"

He didn't give Nut time to finish.

Hong's tongue found his ear, nipping the shell, before soothing it with a slow, sinful kiss. He sucked in the lobe next— playful at first, then hard enough to bruise. Then his tongue lowered to his neck, pressing flat against the pulse hammering there, wondering what type of sound Nut would make if he dug his teeth in.

Nut's head tipped back against the seat, eyes shut, throat exposed, helpless little sounds spilling out.

Hong reached down with one hand, fumbling for the lever under the seat, never stopping his sensual assault.

The backrest dropped slowly, reclining Nut until he was almost lying flat.

Hong sat back on his bulge, drawing a loud, sharp hiss from Nut. He braced his palms on Nut's chest, and devoured him with eyes that were both dark and devoted.

"I want you to fuck me here..." Hong said, looking down at him, voice rough, demanding. "In this car. Right now."

His hand slid low, between them again, palming Nut through the jeans, squeezing his hardened length. Nut bucked deeper into his palm, helpless, trapped somewhere between raw need and Hong's body.

Hong lowered to his level, lips ghosting his ear, palm still firm on his crotch. "My body's burns for you, Nut..." He whispered. "I can't think, can't breathe. Need to get you inside me. Need you to fuck me until I can't remember anything else."

His palm slid even lower, fully cupping him.

Nut cursed then— low and broken. "Hong— shit— Hong I can't— I can't fucking focus— we're—"

He forgot the rest of the sentence when Hong ground his hips down again, then started rolling back and forth.. It was slow, drawn out in a way that was deliberate and torturous.

Then it grew harder.

The linen of Hong's loose trousers dragged over the rough denim of Nut's jeans, making the friction even more maddening.

There was too much fabric and not enough skin.

Still it felt so good, Nut's eyes rolled back.

Hong moaned openly, shameless, grinding in slow, tight circles, chasing the pressure he knew would soon unravel Nut.

Nut's hands clamped onto Hong's waist— hard. His fingers dug into soft exposed flesh from Hong's top, holding him down so he could thrust up to meet every roll.

The car rocked slightly with their movements. The seat creaked with their weight.

Hong leaned forward, and kissed Nut again— deeper this time— messy, wet, teeth clacking. His mouth moved and marked him everywhere he could reach— a bruise under Nut's jaw, a bite the slope of his shoulder through the shirt, a long stripe up the column of his throat until Nut was shaking. Then his mouth was on Nut's again.

"You feel so good, Nut..." Hong murmured against his lips. "You have no idea, do you? How you drive me so crazy?"

Nut's head fell back against the reclined seat. A long, guttural moan tore out of him. "God— jesus—"

"Call me Hong." Hong teased, but the sound faded to a low moan when he moved faster, hips snapping down in a rhythm that left them both shaking and panting.

The linen slid and caught against denim, rough and perfect. Hong's own cock throbbed, trapped and leaking through the fabric.

But he didn't care about that. He wanted Nut to feel it— all of him. Wanted to see him lose it.

Nut's curses grew louder, more desperate. His hips jerked up in short, helpless thrusts. His fingers bruised Hong's waist, sliding under the hem of his shirt to grip his bare skin.

He was close, Hong could tell.

Approaching the edge of precipice.

Hong kissed him again— short but claiming. Then he pulled back, just enough to watch Nut's slightly humid face.

"Come for me.." Hong whispered. "Want to see it, want to see your face when you lose it."

Nut's eyes squeezed shut. His mouth opened on a silent cry. Then his whole body locked up— back arching, hips slamming up one last time.

He came hard with a low groan, waves and waves of bliss rushing him in unsteadying surges. His cock pulsed hard in his jeans and hot spurts of cum soaked through his boxers and his jeans, wet and messy.

He moaned low, head thrown back, throat working as aftershocks rolled through him. His fingers clenched on Hong's waist impulsively, so tight that Hong knew they would leave marks for days.

He hoped they wouldn't heal too quickly.

Hong didn't stop moving. He ground his hips slower, harder, dragging every last tremor from Nut's orgasm.

He savored every second of it— the way Nut's brows pinched, the way his lips parted, the thin beads of sweat on his forehead, the flush on his neck and cheeks. The dazed, wrecked look in his eyes when they finally fluttered open.

He leaned down and kissed Nut's mouth again— soft this time, almost tender. "So fucking beautiful." He murmured against his lips. "Love the face you make when you cum."

Nut's heavy breathing stuttered.

He looked up at Hong and it was like he was seeing him for the first time.

His eyes were still dark but glassy, his lips swollen, and his cheeks were red. He was so beautiful, it was almost terrifying.

Hong stared back with the same intensity and brushed a thumb over Nut's bottom lip, tracing the faint bite mark he'd left there.

"You're mine, Nut..." Hong's voice was quiet, though firm, leaving no room for argument. "Now that I put my hands on you— my mark — no one gets to touch you."

Nut's brow furrowed.

There was something in Hong's tone, something that gave away more than lustful possession.

It sounded... dangerous. The sharp gleam in Hong's eyes did not help his unease.

Nut swallowed, throat bobbing. And when he finally spoke, his voice came out hoarse and wrecked. But true. "Yours."

Hong's expression softened then. He smiled— small but satisfied.

Then he captured Nut's lips again— slow and deep, pouring everything into it.

Nut's hands cupped his face, pulling him closer, holding on like he never wanted to let go.

They stayed like that for a long time, just wrapped around each other, kissing, idling.

Time ticked slow. Dust and wind danced outside. The world beyond the tree seemed insignificant and far away.

Hong rested his head against Nut's shoulder, hearing his unsteady heartbeats from there. He whispered eventually. "Still want you in my bed tonight."

Nut let out a short laugh. "Hmm. Okay."

Hong kissed the corner of his mouth. "I want you to fuck me hard... want it to hurt so good, I can't walk tomorrow."

Nut groaned— half embarrassed, half turned on."You're gonna fucking kill me, Hong. That mouth of yours."

Hong stroked Nut's broad chest possessively. "Going to put it every where on you tonight."

Nut groaned again.

They stayed tangled together for a few too-short minutes. Then Nut reached up, and brushed Hong's silver hair back from his forehead. "We should get to work."

Hong hummed softly and climbed off him.

Nut adjusted himself, sighing wearily at the wet spot. Hong chuckled mischievously.

Nut started the car again, the engine rumbling to life. The gravel crunched as he reversed and pulled back onto the road.

Neither of them spoke for a while.

But Hong's hand found Nut's thigh, and it rested there, needing the physical contact.

Nut's fingers covered Hong's, squeezing once, always reassuring and present.

~~~

They pulled into the station parking lot just before noon.

The Bangkok sun was beating down hard today, you could see the heat waves from a distance.

Hong stepped out first, a trickle of sweat rolling down his neck. He stretched his arms above his head and his shirt rode up a little, showing a thin strip of skin at his waist.

Nut grabbed his bag, got out the car and locked the door. Then he walked around to the other side where Hong stood.

Two officers walking past slowed down. Hong recognized them from Homicide.

One of them let out a low whistle.

"Damn, Hong. Looking good today." The taller one said, grinning wide.

The other man laughed. "Yeah, hot date?"

Hong gave them a sly, knowing smile. "Yeah... had the best time." He said, looking up at Nut.

"I bet you did... i'm so jealous." The shorter one commented.

Nut felt heat crawl up his neck. His jaw tightened and his eyes sharpened. Without thinking, he stepped closer and placed his hand on Hong's lower back, fingers splayed wide, possessive.

Hong's smile grew a fraction.

He leaned back, just enough to press into Nut's touch, eyes still locked on him.

The officers noticed.

Their grins faded and with a small nod, they both walked away.

Nut didn't remove his hand until they were inside the building.

At their desk, Nut dropped his bag in his seat and turned to Hong. "I'm going to the bathroom." He said, voice low. "Need to... clean up. You made a mess of me earlier." He gave Hong a knowing look— half scolding, half heat.

Hong grinned, eyes sparkling. "Sorry not sorry."

Nut shook his head, fighting a smile of his own. Then he turned and walked off towards the restrooms.

Hong watched him until he was out of sight.

He was about to turn when he noticed something out the corner of his eye.

A small white envelope tucked under a stack of Nut's files.

It was inconspicuous, hard to notice among all the other paper.

Hong glanced warily around.

The room was busy— phones ringing, people talking, no one looking his way.

He reached over quickly and snatched it, before slipping into his own seat.

He looked around again, then looked down at the paper.

There was no name, no stamp.

Nothing.

Just plain white paper sealed.

For some reason, his heart started thudding.

He quickly opened the flap. Inside was a folded sheet of paper. He pulled it out and unfolded it. Printed in thick black letters were the words:

DO NOT STOP LOOKING.

Hong's stomach dropped. His heart raced faster.

What did that mean?

Calming himself, he felt around inside the envelope.

Something else was there, small and stiff. He slid it out into his palm.

It was a black card.

Old, frayed at the edges, a single engraved symbol, barely visible to the naked eye. On the back was a string of numbers he called his own.

Hong's entire body went cold.

NO.

This... couldn't be real.

If it was, it meant...

The rat was still alive.

He shoved the card and paper back into the envelope and locked it in his drawer.

His hands shook for a second, but he forced them still... and took a deep breath.

Then another.

Until his heart settled into a rhythm that looked like normal. He relaxed his face into something calm and went about his duties like every other day.

When Nut returned, Hong was smiling, looking through his reports.

Nut smiled at him. "You look happy... what's the secret?" Low, flirtatious.

"You." Hong beamed up at him, voice giving away nothing.

Nut studied him for a moment, still a little awed at how Hongs words could catch him off balance. Without a word, he pulled the jacket he'd retrieved from his locker and draped it over Hong's shoulders.

"Cover up."

"It's not cold." Hong said. Though he tugged the jacket closer. It smelled like Nut— citrus soap, faint cologne. Him.

"Never said it was..." He gave him another intense look.

Hong caught the meaning.

Jealousy— raw and glaring.It sent a welcome chill through Hong.

God Nut was going to drive him feral.

"Thanks." He murmured, now hot and bothered.

With a final look, Nut went to his desk and slid into his seat. There he just started sorting reports— normal, oblivious.

Hong studied him and an almost weary relief nearly overcame him. He returned his eyes to his screen but he only saw nothing.

That evening, when their shift ended, Nut stood, leaned in and whispered against Hong's ears, lips brushing the shell. "Your place or mine?"

Hong's breath hitched. He turned his head and stared at Nut. His eyes were already dark and dancing with excitement.

Hong took a quick peak around before pressing a kiss to Nut's lips, then another.

Afterwards, he pulled back and said. "I can't tonight, Nut. Got something I have to do." He hoped the sincerity in his voice sounded genuine.

Nut's brows furrowed slightly— disappointed at first, then curious. "What is it?"

Hong brushed a thumb over Nut's cheek. "Don't worry."

"I can help." Nut pressed

"No." Hong's voice was gentle but firm. "Really. It's fine."

Nut stared at him, long and hard. Then he sighed. "Is it your parents?" The words were careful but so full of trust it almost devastated Hong.

He remained quiet, hoping that would suffice as a natural response.

"Okay." Nut murmured, understanding. "But let me know if you need me."

Hong nodded with a weak smile.

They kissed again— longer this time, unguarded. Nut's hand curled around the back of Hong's neck, holding him there like he didn't want to let go.

Nut's hand on his neck was painfully distracting.

And for a moment, Hong considered saying fuck it. He considered just going home and letting Nut destroy him.

But he couldn't.

If this threat was real, he would certainly lose Nut.

When they finally pulled apart, Nut said. "Text me when you're done."

"I will." Hong murmured, heart still fluttering.

Outside, Hong watched Nut walk to his car. After waving him off, Nut got in and drove away.

Then Hong turned and went back into the station.

He went to the surveillance room and locked the door behind him. First, the surveillance officer didn't ask too many questions, a quality Hong was grateful for. He ran the station's surveillance feed on his monitor and fast-forwarded through the morning footage.

The clip came up and Hong asked him to slow it.

It was Lego.

He carried a stack of envelopes and dropped the white one on Nut's files casually.

There was nothing suspicious about that.

Lego had been helping him drop off his mail the five years he'd been stationed here.

Hong rubbed his eyes hard.

Who the fuck was doing this?

He gave First his thanks and left the room. He found a deserted closet, locked it and pulled his secret phone from his pocket.

Then he dialed Will.

It rang. And rang.

Then beeped.

There was no answer.

He called again and again, pacing the cramped space.

Nothing.

FUCK!

He gave up and shoved the phone back in his pocket.

Hong felt a sickening coil in his gut.

This was not going to end well.

This rat was going to bury them all.

~~

At home, Hong quickly showered and changed into clean clothes— dark shirt, dark jeans, zero adornments. He really wasn't in the mood to be outstanding tonight.

Afterwards, he sat on his couch and pulled the letter and card on the table.

He picked the letter up and words stared up at him, bold and taunting.

DO NOT STOP LOOKING.

The weight of that threat sat heavily on him. When he picked the card up next, it burned in his hand.

Who was doing this?

What did they want?

He pulled out his phone, took photos of both, before locking the pics in his hidden folder.

A text came in from Nut then.

Nut: you okay??

Hong's lips curled faintly.

Hong: yeah. I'm good. Dw😘

Nut: okay.Good night❤️

Hong: Good night.❤️

He dropped the phone and cursed under his breath.

He had to do something about this quickly. He had too much to lose now— even more than wealth and influence.

He couldn't lose Nut.

Not when he just got him. Not ever.

He picked up the letter and carried them to the kitchen. There he lit a match over the sink and watched it go up in flames, ash drifting down the drain.

The card went into his pocket.

Then he grabbed his jacket, his keys and left the house.

At the club, he took the private elevator tucked away behind a fake wall in the far back, cloaked by damaged, rusty vehicles that would probably be there for another century.

This was his usual route. Hong stepped inside and pressed the green button on the panel.

As it descended, his phone rang.

He quickly pulled it out of his pocket, thinking it was Nut.

But it was Will.

Hong's jaw tightened. He hit the red button on the elevator panel and it paused.

He leaned against the wall and answered."Why the fuck weren't you picking up?" His voice was low, but harsh.

William ignored his question. "What's happening?"

"The rat's back."

"What rat?"

"What other rat?" Hong snapped. "Someone sent Nut a letter. And my card. An old one. It's one of us, Will."

"Why do you sound so frantic?" His voice was low, nonchalant. "Find them and kill them."

Hong laughed— the sound short and bitter. "Kill them? Just like we killed Earn?"

"Yes."

Hong's anger exploded. "Are you hearing yourself, Will? The rat is still alive. It wasn't Earn. He died for nothing. And now you want me to do it again? Act brash? Spill more innocent blood?"

Will's voice remained flat, unbothered. "He was selling my info to the Yakuza. He was dead either ways. You know that."

That much was true.

But it did nothing to ease the guilt in his chest. Hong closed his eyes, and pinched his forehead. Then softer, vulnerable, he said. "I can't do this, Will."

For a long moment, there was silence on the other end.

William eventually broke it, tone softeniing— just a fraction. "I'm busy right now. Keep the cop occupied. When I come back, I'll handle it."

"I don't know how to keep doing that, Will. We only got lucky this time."

"Then keep buying us luck." Will said. "Don't call me again. I'll call you if we need to speak."

The line went dead.

Hong pulled it from his ear and stared at the screen, chest tight. He cursed, swallowed the urge to punch something and pocketed the phone.

He decided then he wouldn't tell the circle about this.

Someone had sent his card to Nut— only Nut— as a clue. It wasn't meant to be seen by anyone else.

If one of them was the rat, letting them know and showing fear would only make him look weak.

An easy target.

And if the rat ever found out he knew about the letter... they'd stop. They'd hide.

No. It was better to act oblivious.

It would be easier to root them out that way. One way or another, they would mess up.

And Hong?

He would deal the killing blow.

He took a slow breath, reached forward and restarted the elevator. It began it's descent again, and opened seconds later.

The striking red lights were almost blinding, electric music thumped through the floor, and leather clad bodies pressed together, smelling of sweat, skin, and sin.

Hong stepped out.

And the mass swallowed him whole.

~~~

William.

William ended the call, handing over the phone to the man next to him.

He looked down at the knife in his hand— the same one he'd taken from Est's house. He carried it like a totem now, treated it like it was something special, something sacred. His thumb rubbed slowly over the blade.

Taking a slow breath, he slipped the knife into his pocket.

Then he turned, reached over and pulled a machete from the wooden block. The large blade gleamed under the sharp ring light in the dark room.

An injured man was folded over, bleeding heavily. He whimpered, trembling, teeth clattering as William drew closer.

William stopped in front of him, his voice cold and flat. "Start talking..." He said. "Or your head leaves your body."

~~~

Hong

Hong didn't go home after the fight.

If his mother saw his face, she would only make things worse by dragging him to school and causing a huge scene.

Tui took him to get it cleaned and dressed instead. He paid for it, then took Hong to sleep at his place.

His mom never cared if he stayed out, as long as he came home twice a week for his "spiritual cleansing."

He had gone yesterday, so he was fine for now.

Becky was still blowing up his phone. She had called many times and left at least 20 messages.

Hong kept seeing the name flash on his screen, but he didn't answer.

It wasn't because he hated her.

He just felt it would be stupid.

People were already calling him names for dating a Mafia boss's daughter. Crazy, sometimes brave.

He never felt like he was either... he just liked her.

Alot to close his ears to the silent rumors that always followed her.

But now he believed he'd been acting crazy.

Messing with another mafia heir would make things even worse. He had a big bandage on his nose as proof.

Better to stay away now.

So he just switched off his phone and went to bed.

The next morning, he quickly took a shower.

His school uniform was clean, neatly folded on the lone chair in the room. Tui had washed and ironed it while he slept.

"You washed my uniform?" Hong asked with glassy and a faux sobbing expression.

"Don't do too much." Tui warned playfully.

Hong walked to where Tui was sat on the floor reading, and kissed the top of his head. "If you were a girl, I'd marry you."

Tui rolled his eyes. "Say that again and I won't wash your uniform next time."

Hong laughed a little, got dressed, then left.

The walk to school was very long. Maybe it was because of the way he dragged his feet. He knew each mile brought him closer to the person he'd told himself he should avoid.

Probably because he knew he'd fold once he saw her.

He paused a few blocks away, and thought about skipping.

But he needed the good grades.

That was another one of the requirements for the illusion his mother called freedom.

So he pushed himself forward and kept on walking slowly.

He arrived just as the bell rang for first period.

Right at the entrance, he saw something strange.

At the end of the hallway, amidst the jostling rush of students and a few nosy onlookers, Freen was crying, hard.

She held onto Becky's arm and begged for something— words he couldn't make out.

Becky said something sharp, her face twisted with disgust. Then she slapped Freen across the face.

Gasps came from the crowd.

Freen didn't let go. She dropped to her knees and kept pleading.

Becky pushed her away, fixed her uniform, and turned.

That was when she saw Hong.

She walked straight to him, grabbed his hand, and pulled him down the hall to the janitor's closet.

Hong let her.

He was more curious than anything now.

Inside, Becky hugged him tight right away. "I'm so sorry..." She whispered against his shoulder. "I'm really sorry."

She pulled back and looked at his bandaged nose, eyes soft and regretful.

Hong stood frozen, not knowing what to do with his hands. Eventually, she pulled back and asked. "Are you okay?"

Hong stared at her long and hesistant, his conviction already crumbling. He sighed wearily and told Becky. "We need to talk."

She nodded fast. "I know what you're going to say. But please... hear me out first?"

Hong's heart jumped.

He swallowed nervously, then nodded softly.

Becky took a breath. "I'm so sorry about what happened... i'm sorry about Will. But it was all Freen's fault." Her eyes lowered with obvious contempt. "She lied to him. Told him you were trying to get with her. She told him— she said you grabbed her once."

Hong's expression was puzzled at first, still processing what the hell he just heard. "What?"

Becky nodded. "That's what she told Will. And that's why he did what he did. He was just trying to protect me.... and her."

Hong felt anger rise in his chest then. "I didn't do that!"

"I know..." Becky said quickly. "I believe you. I know you would never do something like that. But Will didn't know. He believed her."

"That's not fair, Becks." Hong said, then pointed at his nose. "Look at my face."

"I know, I know. I'm so sorry, Hong." Becky's said, voice cracked. "Will is sorry too. My father... he wants to make this right."

Hong's heart jumped again, fright flashing in his eyes. He swallowed hard, again.

Becky looked up at him with those same eyes he always went weak for. "Come with me later. After school... Please."

Hong hesitated.

It wasn't that he didn't trust Becky, no. It was just a growing, unsettling feeling in his chest that wouldn't go away.

"If you come and you still want to end things..." Becky continued. "I'll understand. I promise. Just do this for me, please."

That seemed reasonable... or at least in Hong's ears. Still he had doubts. Slowly, hesitantly, he nodded.

After closing, they walked out of the school together.

Freen was stood near the gate, eyes swollen, face puffy, looking like she'd just lost her entire world. Her eyes never strayed from Becky.

Becky ignored her completely, walking past her like they were strangers.

Hong did the same.

He didn't care that Freen had accused him of something so ugly. She'd never liked him anyways.

And honestly, he never cared about her either— or most of people at school for that matter.

So it was easy to pretend she didn't exist anymore.

Because to him, she didn't.

A black Rolls-Royce was waiting for them outside the school. It was huge and formidable looking— the definition of power.

A man in a sharp suit was stood by the door. From the looks of him, Hong could tell he wasn't just a driver. His broad shoulders and bulky figure gave off massive strength. The long, jagged scar on his face spoke of a life filled with violence.

Hong stopped walking, his stomach twisting with fear and doubt. If he went through with this, he knew he'd be stepping into a world far different from his. A world of secrets and shadows.

A world of violence.

That was almost enough to make him reconsider.

But then, Becky's soft palms squeezed his, pulling him from his inner conflict. "It's okay... just trust me okay." She smiled softly.

Hong gulped and let her pull him forward.

The drive was slow but somehow, it felt too short at the same time.

Thick trees lined the road and the farther they went, the more uncertain Hong felt.

For some reason— whether instinct, whether fate— he knew his whole life was about to change.

For better or worse was what worried him.

Becky held his hand the whole way. Her fingers were warm and soft, but they didn't stop the coldness in his chest.

When the car finally pulled to a stop, Hong stepped out after Becky.

The house was large and white, framed by tall magnificent pillars and shielded by a giant door. The surrounding tall trees covering the area only made the building seem even more imposing.

From where Hong stood, it seemed endless, like he couldn't tell where it began or ended. It was the probably the biggest house he'd ever seen.

But it didn't feel like a home.

It felt like a beast, waiting for him to deliberately walk into its belly so it could swallow him whole.

The thought alone made him shiver.

Becky squeezed his hand again, letting some of her warmth seep into him. Then she led him forward and Hong followed.

Inside the house, Hong sat on the big leather sofa next to Becky.

He tried hard not to shake, but his hands and legs kept trembling.

Becky noticed. So she put her hand on his thigh and gave him another reassuring squeeze. She'd probably have to squeeze him the duration of this visit.

"It's okay..." She said softly, eyes warm. "You're safe here."

Her words didn't help much. His heart only kept pounding too fast.

He'd heard stories about this place.

The dark secrets it carried. People who walked in and never walked out.

He prayed he wouldn't end up being one of them.

A maid came in quietly.

She set down a tray with water and jug of fresh juice.

Becky looked at Hong. "Do you want anything?"

Hong shook his head. He couldn't drink anything right now. His stomach felt too tight.

Becky nodded softly.

They kept sitting, waiting, in silence.

After about fifteen minutes, a door finally opened.

A man strode in like he owned the place. Hong took a look at him and saw he probably did.

"Sorry, I'm late.." The man said, fixing the cuff of his sleeve that had previously been rolled up.

He wasn't what Hong expected.

In his early to mid-forties, he stood at about 5'10 at most, with a strong face and a neatly trimmed beard. He had broad shoulders and strong arms that looked like they weren't afraid to get dirty from what Hong could guess.

That frightened him more.

The man wore a dark vest over his white shirt, paired with perfectly tailored trousers. Everything about him screamed money and power.

Hong felt impossibly small in front of him.

"Phor!" Becky jumped up and hugged him.

The man hugged her back, rubbing her hair gently. "How was school today, sweetheart?"

"Good, Phor. Mr Sataporn agreed to give me a retest." Becky answered.

"That's good. That's good sweetheart." He pinched her cheeks making her blush. Then the man turned to Hong, who was still frozen on the couch.

He walked over and smiled warmly. "You must be Hong."

He held out his hand.

Hong stood up, fast and nervous. He took the hand with his damp one. "Yes, sir."

The man's grip was firm but not mean. If he noticed Hong's nervous posture, he didn't show it. "My daughter has told me a lot about you..." He said looking at her, then Hong. "You see I place my daughter above anything, and from what she's told me, you've been respectable with her."

Becky's cheeks turned crimson. She looked down, hiding a proud smile.

The man kept talking. "I hear you're a Christian. What church do you go to, son?"

"I'm a Catholic, Sir." Hong answered quietly.

The man nodded. "Hmm... That's good. That's good. While I am a Buddhist myself, I value young people who takes their spirituality seriously. Being godly is a quality hard to find in youth these days"

Hong nodded quietly.

He didn't know what to say to that.

The man smiled wider. "Don't be nervous, son. I may look like this now, but I also come from very humble beginnings. Grew up in the slums in Bangkok where even food was a luxury. There's no judgment here. Make yourself at home."

Hong still didn't feel at ease. But swallowed the lump in his throat. "Okay. Thank you, Sir." He returned the smile weakly.

Anything to hurry this up so he could get the hell out of here.

The man offered him a seat— which Hong took and then sat down across from him. "The reason I asked you here is... my little birdie told me you promised to marry her."

Hong's heart dropped. He looked over at Becky, but she only smiled and nodded.

"Yes." Hong said, small, barely audible.

The man raised an eyebrow. "And you're serious about that?"

He was when he said it.

But after everything that happened, how even being here made his legs shake, he was so sure.

Still, he couldn't back track now. His life coukd depend on it. "Yes, sir." He said firmly.

The man hummed in thought. "Good. That's good." The man sat forward, palms clasped. "Becky has a year left in school. She wants to get married after that. Since you want that too, that means you'll become part of this family."

He looked at Hong again. "You'll have to learn alot here. You'll learn to fit in. I need loyal men, Hong. Hard workers. Men who can keep secrets. Are you ready for that?"

Hong hesitated.

Honestly, he didn't expect any of this.

While he'd expected worse, this wasn't any better. He didn't feel relief, he only felt a different kind of fear now.

He stared at the man, unsure of what he was saying, what he'd be agreeing to.

His throat felt dry, his lips stiff. But still he forced himself to say. "Yes."

The man grinned then, impressed. He stood up, walked over and patted Hong's shoulder. "I like you, Hong. You're smart. Welcome to the family."

He held out his hand again.

Hong stood and took it, a little surprised.

And just like that it seemed over. The tension loosened in Hong's shoulder.

Becky's father seemed... kind.

He had expected something much scarier, much conceited.

The man patted his shoulder again before looking around. "Oh, that reminds me. Where's William?"

One of the men near the door answered immediately. "He's upstairs, sir. I'll get him."

"I'm here..." A voice said.

The boy— William— stepped out from the shadows near the hallway.

His steps were small and careful, in a way that made Hong uncomfortable.

He looked about the same age as Hong, tall, soft-sharp features and shoulder length hair.

Hong recognized him as the same boy who had punched him yesterday. But now, William had bruises of his own. His eye was purple and a red bruise on the side of his mouth still looked fresh.

The easy smile on the father's face disappeared.

His eyes turned hard.

Then he turned back to Hong, voice apologetic. "I heard what happened yesterday. I wanted William to apologize to you. In person."

Hong looked at William, who stared back at him. The boy's face was blank, and there was nothing in his eyes. No warmth or feeling.

"Go ahead..." The father said curtly.

"I'm sorry." William said, voice flat.

"For what?" The father asked. And tone sounded like he was holding back anger.

"I'm sorry I punched you. I was wrong. It won't happen again."

The father nodded, satisfied. "Good. Now, Hong... do you accept his apology?"

Hong stared long at William. Those empty, but somewhat embarrassed eyes. It confused him. Still, he nodded slowly. "Yes."

"Good. Good." The father patted his shoulder again. "Becky has piano lessons soon. I have some business matters to attend to. Let's have dinner this weekend, Hong. If you ever need anything, just let me know."

Hong nodded slowly.

The father turned to William, voice turning cold. "Drop him off. Make sure he gets home safe. Do you understand?"

William didn't look at his father. He kept staring at Hong. "Okay, Phor." Then, without another word, he turned towards the exit.

The father smiled at Hong again. He patted his shoulder one more time. "See you soon, son."

Hong pressed his palms together in a wai. "Goodbye, Sir."

"Goodbye Son."

Becky waved at him enthusiastically. Hong waved back before following William out of the house.

Outside, Hong exhaled so deeply, he almost bent in half.

William turned to give him a curious look before walking to the car.

The drive back home was quiet and tense.

William drove a sleek black Mercedes— the latest model with a very strong V6 engine. He sped down the asphalt, going 160 kilometers per hour. But he handled the wheel effortlessly, jaw sharp, eyes focused.

Hong sat in the passenger seat, trying not to notice him... but he couldn't help but admire the cold energy he seemed to radiate, despite the tension in the car.

Hong looked at the road then, and noticed they weren't going the right way.

"Where are you going?" He asked, a little startled.

William kept his eyes on the road. "I'm hungry. We're getting food." His voice was still flat. He reached into the console and picked up his pack of gum. He popped one in his mouth and started chewing.

Hong didn't say anything. He just reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, typing a text to Tui.

Hong: In case I go missing, I'm with Becky's brother. His name is William. Their address is—

"I really am sorry, you know..." William said suddenly.

Hong paused, finger hovering above the next letter. He looked over at Will.

William briefly glanced at him. "I am for real." He exhaled, returning his eyes to the road. "When Freen told me you touched her... I was going to kill you. But Becky was there." He paused. "I'm glad she was there."

What?

Was that an apology?

His statement angered Hong. "Is that supposed to make me feel better? Look at my face!" He pointed at his nose.

William shrugged, unbothered. "You'll live."

Hong scoffed at his arrogance. "I don't accept your apology."

A tiny smile flickered on William's lips. "Then, I'll just have to make it up to you until you do."

Hong stared at him, softening despite himself. Then he nodded toward William's face. "What happened to your face?"

William touched the purple bruise under his eye. "Tripped. Ran into a pole."

Hong raised an eyebrow. "And your lip?"

"Same pole. Different landing."

Hong couldn't help it, he broke out into a smile.

William glanced at him again, looking smug.

The rest of the drive was quiet.

The restaurant William took him to was a five-star one. The kind that had fancy lights, white tablecloths, waiters in suits.

Hong felt stupid in his school uniform.

William handed him the menu, still chewing his gum. "Order whatever you want."

Hong's eyes widened as he stared at the prices. They probably cost more than Tui's yearly rent. He dropped the menu back. He couldn't pick.

William stared at momentarily, then asked. "You like sushi?"

"Yeah."

William ordered with familiar ease. He ordered... a lot.

Platters of sushi, rolls, tempura prawns, steak slices, noodles, rice— enough food for five people.

When it arrived, Hong just blinked, a little intimidated.

William pushed a plate towards him. "Dig in."

He started eating right away. Slow, gaze adrift, not really looking like he was enjoying it. But still chomping away.

Hong ate modestly, taking a few bites from the dishes around. Occasionally, he snuck a glance at William, watching as he slowly destroyed everything in front of him.

It was oddly fascinating.

By the time Hong was full, William was still going hard.

Hong looked at the piles still left. "You actually plan to finish all that?"

William paused, swallowed a mouthful of noodles. "Yeah, I'm still hungry."

Hong shook his head. "This is the greed they spoke of in the Bible."

"You know what else the Bible says?" William said, wiping his mouth. "'Go and enjoy food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.' I am glorifying Him with my appetite."

Hong stared. "Pretty sure you skipped a few lines conveniently. That's not how it works."

William munched on a prawn. "It works how I say it works."

Hong rolled his eyes. "No it doesn't. You're twisting it."

"Fuck the Bible..." William said casually, popping another piece of sushi in his mouth.

Hong's mouth dropped open. "It still doesn't change the fact that you eat like a pig." He regretted it the moment he said it.

But if William was offended, he didn't show it.

"Notice how pigs are some of the happiest animals in the world?" He countered instead, unbothered.

"Yeah... Until someone takes them to the slaughterhouse." Hong joked.

"I wish someone would take me to the slaughterhouse so we can end this conversation."

He kept eating. And eating.

Hong watched in disbelief. "How are you not obese?"

William dipped a slice of steak in sauce. "Skill issue." He pointed his chopsticks at Hong. "And can you shut the fuck up? You're spoiling my food with your bitterness."

Hong broke out in laughter then.

A real laugh, the type that made his chest warm and his tummy shake.

William kept eating, looking like he was in a post orgasmic state.

When they finally walked out, William turned to him. "Want ice cream?"

Hong just laughed again.

William drove him to Tui's with a giant bowl of ice cream sundae in his lap— chilly, hopefully not melting too fast. Will's own smaller cup sat in the holder, already almost gone.

When Hong stepped out of the car, ice cream bowl in hand, he leaned over the window. "Thanks for driving me."

"Sure." William said, sucking on his spoon.

"Goodnight." Hong said quietly.

"Goodnight, brother-in-law." He waved his spoon at him. Then he sped off.

Hong stood there for a moment, watching the red taillights disappear into the dark.

He felt something strange in his chest as he stared and thought:

Maybe— just maybe— he had made a new friend.

__________________________________

Hello 👋

I'm sorry for the late update. I couldn't wrap this chapter up quickly enough because I was too busy fighting on Twitter dot com. But it's here now. Hope you like it.

We finally met the father.

What do you think of him? Why did you think William killed him?

Also Scary William is back. And honestly I can't help but be drawn into his duality as a person. He only seems to show any form of vulnerability with Est and occasionally Hong— which I find adorable.

We'll be seeing a lot of Evil William in the next few chapters. I am not looking forward to it.

Next update should be out next week. I won't give a date so I don't end up disappointing you. Hope you liked this one. See you in the next.