Rak is holding as much as he can on Baam's shirt.
Rak: Slow down, turtle!
Khun chuckles.
Khun: But I thought you preferred us to be fast and turtles are fast in the water!
Khun is driving a jet ski with Baam behind him, securely holding onto Khun's waist to ensure they remain balanced while they move forward amidst the breathtaking blue waters and refreshing ocean breeze. They are not alone on the water as Endorsi is driving another jet ski, accompanied by Anaak, and Hatz and Shibisu are following behind on yet another jet ski with Hatz at the helm. The water splashes around them as they glide towards their destination.
The sun is up high and shining brightly already as they're on their way to the resort and it feels like it's burning his skin. He got concerned as Khun's got a white complexion and he might get sunburns easily. So he looked at him from behind. But the bluenette in front of him doesn't seem bothered by the heat at all.
Despite the scorching heat, Khun's skin remained ice-cold. Baam observed his neck and noticed that Khun wasn't sweating at all. He couldn't help but marvel at Khun's delicate skin, which seemed impervious to the sun's heat. However, as he gazed into Khun, he felt a strange sensation surge through him, and he quickly averted his gaze. He couldn't help but question himself: was it appropriate to look at Khun this way and from such a close distance?
He turned his head away and loosened his grip slightly on Khun's waist. Khun sensed the change in his position and turned his head to the right to look at Baam. As he did, their faces drew close, just an inch apart. Baam flinched and felt a sudden thumping in his chest. His cheeks began to burn, not because of the sun, but because of the proximity of their faces. He could feel the warmth radiating from Khun's breath, which made him feel more nervous.
Khun: You okay, Baam?
You're not still sleepy, are you?
Baam: Ohh, no, I'm okay, Khun.
He smiled shyly and Khun smiled back and turned his head to face the ocean again as he spoke.
Khun: Hold tight or you might fall.
Don't worry, we're nearly there so don't sleep now for now.
Baam held him tighter again and Khun smiled.
As Baam faces Khun's back, his hair sways elegantly with the wind, revealing the nape of his neck as it nearly brushes against his face. It carries the refreshing scent of mint and ocean breeze.
Baam is back in his thoughts and realises something strange. Why was he feeling nervous around him? He had never felt this way before. Maybe it was because they were always too busy with other things, and now he had a chance to observe him closely. But he couldn't shake the feeling that something was not right and he couldn't help but wonder if it was even appropriate. He glanced over at him again, unsure of what to do next.
As Baam kept his gaze on the lightbearer's back, he couldn't help but admire how effortlessly cool he looked. Suddenly, his heart started pounding in his chest, intensifying with each passing moment. Just as he tried to compose himself, the sound of Khun's voice made him flinch involuntarily.
Khun: See, the island is now in sight!
Baam's eyes were redirected to the ocean, and the island came into sharp focus as they approached. With mounting excitement, they powered the jetski towards the resort island. Upon arrival, they immediately noticed the name of the resort emblazoned on a wooden arch covered with heart-shaped leaves, situated near the docks.
The Dream Paradise.
Khun parked the jet ski on the dock before he, Endorsi, and Hatz set foot on the shore. Khun waved at his companions to follow him as they walked towards the resort island. The island was a dream come true with its white sand beaches shimmering under their feet, palm trees, and colorful bungalows. The water was clear, turquoise, and sparkled under the brilliant sun. They could see fish swimming near the shore, and the sky was a clear blue without any clouds. Seagulls squawked in the sky, and other birds chirped. The laughter of the people enjoying the sun filled the air. They couldn't wait to explore this beautiful place and have some fun, so they looked around.
As they were admiring the scenery, a well-dressed man wearing a tuxedo, bow tie, clean-cut grey hair, and a large top hat approached them. He placed his right arm on his chest as he bowed down to greet the guests.
???: Greetings, Regulars. We're pleased to welcome you with open arms. I'm Tophat, your butler at your service. I'm here to assist you to check in upon your arrival and throughout your stay. If you need guide or anything, you can ask me anytime.
Khun: Shall we go check in, guys?
But nobody seems to hear them as they're preoccupied with the sight.
Shibisu: Now this really is a paradise! I must be in a dream!
Shibisu looked at the pretty girls walking around in their swimsuit and drooling.
Then suddenly someone pinched his right ear!
Shibisu: Ouch!! Hey! Who woke me up from my dream?!
Anaak: Dream my arse.. You're such a perv!
Shibisu: Ugh.. I'm not! And what's wrong with dreaming?
Meanwhile, Hatz sighed and looked away in disgust and looked at the ocean with people windsurfing instead and he thought of trying it.
Endorsi: Hmph! You truly never change! Drooling all over as soon as you see girls in their bikinis!
Endorsi is feeling annoyed and offended that no one seems to be paying attention to her and no one is looking at her so she thinks of changing into a bikini as well.
Endorsi: Come on, let's go check in and find our reserved rooms! So we can go and change!
Khun: Finally. Someone heard me. Yeah, we can look around later.
Let's go, Baam.
Baam is completely mesmerized by the resort's attractions . He never imagined that he would witness such an awe-inspiring place in his entire life. The resort is vast, and he can only see a small section of it from where he stands. In the island's centre, there is a massive fountain that serves as the focal point, with water dancing rhythmically. There are food stalls and shacks for refreshments near the beach, while more significant shops and restaurants are accessible if you explore the area further. He looks in every direction, taking in all the sights until he is gently nudged on his hand, breaking his reverie.
Khun: Baam?
Come. We can look more around later.
Let's go check in and find our room first so we can put down our things and get changed.
Baam: Ohh okay! Sure!
Tophat: Follow me, everyone. This way, please.
Tophat directed them to enter the lobby for the reception.
Endorsi presented their room reservations to the receptionist and received their card keys. The butler guided them to their rooms, chatting along the way.
Endorsi: Ugh.. how much further?
I wanna get change already!
Tophat: Not to worry, princess. We're here.
It was a bit of a trek from the reception, but it was worth it when they finally arrived at their destination. The view was breathtaking as they crossed a wooden bridge adorned with fragrant flowers to reach the small floating island where their overwater villa was located. The bungalows boasted glass doors and windows, each with a patio that featured sun lounges under a large umbrella for those who wanted to relax outside during the day. Additionally, each bungalow had a deck with a private pool overlooking the ocean, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning blue waters even when swimming in their own pool.
Upon their arrival, Rak, Khun, and Baam assertively claimed one room, while Hatz and Shibisu shared the room next door. Endorsi and Anaak's room was located next to Hatz and Shibisu's, but they didn't dare to disturb the peace of their neighbours. As they entered their room, they were immediately struck and impressed by its luxurious interior. The room was well-lit and spacious, with a glass floor that allowed them to see the fish swimming below. It was divided into two main areas: the living room and the bedroom, both of which were stylishly furnished. Rak and Baam were particularly intrigued by this unique feature as if they had never seen anything like it before.
Rak firmly placed his hands on the glass floor, watching the fish swim with a determined gaze. His tail flickered with an unmistakable energy, as if poised to pounce at any moment.
Khun: Hey gator! They're not turtles for you to hunt again or do you need a pair of eyeglasses to see that clearly? Don't bother those innocent fishes.
But the dazzled alligator pays no attention to anything he's saying this time.
Baam left them and went to check the other areas of their room.
Khun couldn't help but smile as he saw Baam enjoying himself just by looking around. He then took out his lighthouse and began unloading their belongings. He carefully placed his and Baam's outfits for changing on the side of the bed, but he threw Rak's clothes to the tiny alligator that was still obsessing over the fishes, hoping to catch its attention. Purposely enough, the clothes landed on its face, covering its vision.
Rak: Hey!! Who turned the lights off?!
Rak stood up blindly, not realizing that it was his clothes covering his face that prevented him from seeing clearly. He attempted to find the switch and stumbled into a wall, falling onto his back. It was then that his shirt finally came off his face and he was able to see again.
Khun sniggered.
Khun: Dumb gator! Nobody. I throw your clothes on you.
Rak: Why you!
Khun: What? I thought you wanted to be here early so go and change and so you can swim with the fishes instead of just dawdling there all day!
Rak: But I was having a fine time trying to know who's the strongest one to hunt on that thing!
Khun: I told you, they're not turtles! Just shut up and change and go out and join the others!
Rak, visibly upset, emitted a low growl from his throat and muttered something inaudible under his breath. He then stormed off towards the bathroom, his heavy footsteps echoing through the room.
Khun's brow furrowed as he scratched his head. He gazed around the deck, his eyes scanning the area, searching for any sign of Baam. At first, he couldn't spot him, but then he noticed a figure leaning on the wooden fence, gazing out at the vast blue ocean. It was Baam, who seemed to be lost in thought, perhaps contemplating on something.
Khun approached Baam carefully, taking care not to startle him. He walked with light footsteps, his movements almost soundless. When he was close enough, he wrapped his arms around Baam from behind, holding him gently. He rested his chin on Baam's right shoulder, feeling the warmth of his body against his own. Khun whispered softly in Baam's ear, his voice barely above a murmur.
Khun: I'm jealous of the ocean. I'm hurt you must have forgotten about me already with you staring at it for quite some time already and you're not paying attention to me.
Baam's body jolted with surprise, though he quickly tried to regain his composure, his attempts undeniably seemed to fail as he could feel his heart pounding against his chest and his entire body heating up.
Baam: Khun!
Baam turned around to face him and awkwardly tried to explain.
Baam: Uhh.. no! I'm sorry! I'm just..
Khun gently took hold of Baam's cheeks, his fingertips feeling the warmth of his skin. With a delicate touch, he brushed his thumb over the soft flesh, savouring the feel of it beneath his touch. Not content to stop there, he reached up and carefully tucked a stray lock of hair behind Baam's left ear, revealing the handsome features of his face. As their faces drew closer still, Baam felt his heart skip a beat, barely able to breathe in the face of Khun's sudden proximity.
Khun smiled seeing him being flushed by his tease.
As Khun smiles, Baam notices that he too is feeling butterflies in his stomach. He wonders what is happening between them as they have always been together and he has always felt comfortable with his light bearer. This sudden feeling is new to him and he can't help but question it.
He is struggling to comprehend how this is possible. He believed that confessing their feelings would bring them closer and make it easier for him to please Khun. However, it appears to be just the opposite. He wonders how he can make Khun happy when he is feeling this way and afraid he cannot express himself like this.
Khun: I know. Are you tired? Do you want to rest some more? We can stay here for a while together? Rak is already changing his clothes.
And they hear the front door open from the other side of the room and close as not too long.
Khun chuckled lightly.
Khun: Or he's done it seems and now out.
Baam couldn't think straight but he thought maybe it's the proximity was suffocating so maybe it's best he change clothes for now.
Baam: U-uh, I'm going to change now then that he's done too!
Khun: Haha. Okay. I placed your clothes on the bed.
Baam: T-thank you! Baam nodded then he hurriedly bolted inside the bedroom.
Khun happily watched his wave controller being all flustered because of him as he hadn't seen this side of him so he was quite amused and followed Baam.
Baam took his clothes and went inside the bathroom.
He comforted himself that he would be fine since Khun wasn't close to him, but his heart couldn't stop racing as he thought about what had just happened and how close they had been earlier. He asked himself, "What's the matter with him?!" He told himself that he needed to calm down, and he couldn't always be like this. However, he was truly confused.
He heard Khun's footsteps.
Khun: I'm going to change out here too.
Baam: O-okay!
Then after hearing that, he sighed and looked at himself in the mirror in front of him and then he only realised that his face is all red!
He dropped the clothes he was holding, let out a scream, and unconsciously touched his face in shock.
Khun heard it and knocked on the door.
Khun: Are you alright, Baam?
He flinched as soon as he heard Khun's knock and got back his senses around his surroundings again.
He thought to himself that he couldn't tell Khun about his troubles, fearing that it might lead to a misunderstanding between them. He worried that if he opened up, Khun would feel uncomfortable and decide that they were better off not being together. He didn't want their relationship to end before it even properly began. He felt troubled by his own doubts and fears.
Baam: A-ah, yeah. I just dropped my clothes on the floor.
Which isn't a total lie, he did drop it so he picked it up.
Khun, who's always suspicious yet concerned didn't believe him again but let it slide once more.
Khun: Okay, if you're sure. Anyway, I'm done here and I'm heading out first to see how others are doing already.
When you're done, lemme know. If you can't find me out there, just call me on pocket so I can send you my location or meet you wherever you are.
Baam: S-sure, Khun.
Khun listened a bit longer to check if Baam was truly fine, but he heard Baam's clothes rustling, so he assumed he must be changing already. Therefore, he finally decided to go out.
Baam's heart felt like it was going to explode as it reacted to whatever Khun was saying or doing.
Baam: Ugh! How can I make him feel love or happy when I'm like this?!
I need to learn how to calm down.
Ahh!
I know! Maybe cold water would help.
Baam decided to take a shower. As soon as he turned on the water, cool and refreshing droplets flowed all over his body. He let the water cascade down his skin, and then lifted his face up to face the showerhead directly, allowing the water to cool down his burning face.
He felt better. He doesn't feel like burning now and he's more calm.
Feeling relieved, he stepped out of the bathroom and dried himself with a towel before putting on his new clothes. He wore a red summer shirt with giant hibiscus prints on the right side and black shorts. To complete his outfit, he put on his flip-flops and noticed something on the bed. Khun must have left a pair of black sunglasses for him. He smiled, put them on top of his head, and left the room to find Khun or join the others. Before leaving, he made sure to take the card key to avoid locking himself out and causing any inconvenience to the staff.
As the brunette made his way down to the resort's beach, he couldn't find Khun anywhere.
Baam: Guess I'll just have to call him like he said.
Pocket visible mode.
Calling Khun.
Pocket is now ringing Khun but he isn't answering either.
Baam: Maybe he's busy with something?
Wonder where did he go?
But before he knew it,
A familiar voice spoke was heard from a distance and made his heart jump.
Badum.
Khun: Baam!
His light bearer is on sight waving his hand. He was approaching him.
Baam's heart skipped a beat as the bluenette approached him with effortless elegance. His every step was just so magnificent, drawing Baam's gaze towards him. And as he stood before Baam, the bluenette's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief, leaving Baam dazed and frozen, like time had stopped around him.
Khun: Hey!
Baam!
...
Baam?
Khun grabbed Baam's shoulders and shook him a bit.
It took Baam about 20 seconds to realise he was being called and he finally got back to his senses and he was shocked.
Baam: O-ohh! H-hi K-khun! I-
Khun: Baam? You okay?
Baam: uhh.. yeah.
Khun looked worried. And Baam is embarrassed by how he reacted and looks away with a red face.
Khun: You sure?
Baam: Y-yeah.
Khun: Hmmm.. oh..Kay? Well, come on then.
Baam: Wh-where are w-we going..?
Khun didn't say anything but walked and Baam followed him. They walked together to the beach where their friends were.
Shibisu is up in the skies screaming for his life, parasailing.
The others are on a boat pulling him behind.
Khun: They seem to be enjoying themselves so let's go for a stroll and don't bother them and enjoy ourselves together too.
Baam nodded.
They decided to visit the Shinsu Park Aquarium as one of the attractions of the resort first. As they stepped inside, it felt like they had been transported to another world. The couple was mesmerized by the colourful Shineuh creatures playfully swimming around them. They walked slowly, taking in every detail of what seemed like an underwater wonderland. Baam's mood had lightened up and he seemed to have forgotten about the earlier awkwardness. His eyes sparkled with joy as he enjoyed observing the creatures. They encountered a variety of fish including sweetfish, stingrays, golden carps, metal fishes, octo-crabs, urchins, pikaias, and eels. Some of them were separated from each other to prevent any harm. They paused at a giant tank where a huge octopus was waving its tentacles at them. Baam waved back at it, and then he turned to Khun and they smiled at each other before continuing their stroll, feeling happy and relaxed.
Baam pointed at the sign as he saw it. It says Shineuh's Spectacular Show.
Baam: Look Khun!
There seems to be a show going on!
Can we watch?
Khun smiled and nodded. Of course, how can he say no to that cute face Baam was making as his eyes sparkled with excitement?
Khun: Sure, Baam.
They entered the Shineuh's exhibit hall.
They sat together on the front row and watched how shineuh's flashed their talent apart from swimming around.
One that looks like a dolphin we're jumping, spinning and flipping in midair as if dancing and splashing back down happily.
Some were whistling and squeaking some sort of music to accompany them with a tune.
Some crab-looking creatures resembled Trughe's on the side that blew some shinsu bubbles to add special effects to the show. And some seals that balance balls with their noses.
Meanwhile, Khun watched Baam from time to time seeing him smile and enjoying the show together with him.
Khun is glad to be able to see Baam this happy once again as it feels like forever since they have any fun.
Baam caught him staring and blushed as he saw Khun's gentle blue eyes staring at him instead of the show and his heart started to jump again when he thought he's gotten passed that already.
Baam looked away quickly with a red face and tried to focus on the show.
Khun chuckled and turned his eyes to the show too.
Suddenly, one of the shineuh dolphins seems to notice Khun and go close to him.
Khun and Baam were surprised by the approach but Khun smiled and patted the head of the dolphin and suddenly the dolphin burst in happiness to give him a nuzzle.
Baam: Woah! He seems to like you!
After Baam said that, the dolphin slapped his side fins on the shinsu, creating tiny splashes.
Regular Trainer: That's right! Why don't you give him a ride? I think he wants you to give you a ride on his back.
Khun: You sure there, dolphin?
Dolphin squealed in happiness.
Regular Trainer: That's affirmative!
Khun: But can we ride togeher?
I don't want to leave him behind.
Khun looks at Baam with a worried face.
Baam: it's okay, Khun. I can watch you instead.
Khun: No, you're going with me or I won't ride.
Regular Trainer: Well, the dolphin can only have one person on its back at a time. If you want, he can ride another dolphin alongside with you.
Khun: Yeah. That's fine.
What about you, Baam? Would you go on a ride with me?
Baam has become more cheerful.
Baam: Of course, Khun!
The trainer got another dolphin for Baam.
Regular Trainer: Here you go.
Baam: Thank you.
Khun: Say dolphin, let's go!
Khun and Baam are perched on the backs of two sleek and graceful dolphins, their wet skin glistening in the light. The playful Shineuhs seem to enjoy their riders' company as they swim with ease around the stadium. The excited crowd cheers and claps, their eyes fixed on the duo and their aquatic companions. The dolphins leap out of the water, splashing back down and creating a beautiful spray that catches the light and sparkles like diamonds. Khun and Baam hold on tight, grinning from ear to ear, enjoying the thrilling ride and the admiration of the spectators.
After that, they bid a firm farewell to the dolphins, acknowledging the fantastic experience they had together before promptly moving on.
Khun: Did you have fun, Baam?
Baam: Yeah! You?
Khun: I'm glad. I did too. Thanks to you.
Then he flashes the gentlest smile one can conjure.
Baam was taken aback, but he quickly regained his composure. He was pleased to see Khun smile genuinely for once, instead of always being the mastermind behind their plans. Baam couldn't help but notice how beautiful and radiant Khun looked with that smile on his face, and he returned the smile with confidence.
Badum.
Badum.
Their hearts are beating loudly on their chest. Despite the noise of the crowd around them, they can hear it.
Khun looked away all of a sudden, as he felt like his cheeks were burning.
Khun: I-I'll be right back. I'm going to get something to drink for us.
Baam was suddenly confused as to why he couldn't go with him but before he could stop to ask his light bearer, Khun already is gone in a flash.
Baam was also turning frantic his heart was racing just now but it seemed the rapid beating stopped when he went away.
He keeps pacing back and forth as he doesn't know what to do with such feelings. He needs to sort it out.
Baam: Is it better to be distant like this so that I won't feel like exploding each time?
I wonder if Khun is feeling the same way.
But if he isn't, then leaving him or being distant would make me feel sad and lonely.
On the other hand, if I leave him, I'd just be selfish. Avoiding him just to spare myself from feeling this way seems cruel.
Should I just accept it? Or is there a way to manage my emotions?
Baam went to sit on a bench and pondered about it. He was lost in his deep thought. He didn't realise Khun was taking time already. He still hasn't returned.
He tried to be more patient as probably there was a long queue to get their drinks and distracted himself by watching dozens of penguins on the stage. Looking cute and fluffy and waddling, sliding and diving in their icy habitat.
An hour later... Khun still hadn't returned. He got worried.
Baam rang his pocket but he's not answering again.
He looked everywhere in the aquarium park but he was nowhere to be seen.
Baam: Ohh Khun! Wonder where could've been have been gone.
Pocket visible mode.
I'll try shibisu. Maybe they have seen him.
Calling Shibisu.
Isu: Hey Baam! What's up?
Baam: Have you seen Khun?
Isu: No. I thought he was with you?
Baam: He left to buy us a drink an hour ago but he hasn't come back since then.
Isu: Hold on, let me ask the others.
Then he heard from the background that Isu was asking others if they had seen him.
Isu: Nobody has seen him Baam. We can look for him though if you want.
Baam: Sure. If you find him, let me know right away.
Isu: Okay.
Baam dropped the call and started searching for Khun. He's worried that something might have happened to him all of a sudden.
Baam: He couldn't just disappear right?!