Love and anger collide

However, as his hand poised for impact, an abrupt stillness overcame him. His eyes widened, his voice stifled. He had been frozen in that moment—fridged—his grasp loosening, a glass vase slipping to shatter at his feet. His quivering lips formed words, "Kimsyyy, Youuu!!!"Kimsy's visage twisted into a maelstrom of anger and resentment. Win's response was an exasperated eye roll, followed by a decorous apology, "I'm sorry... Truly sorry! I never intended...""Ahhhhm, I even called out to you.""But you offered no response. My apologies again, Kimsy!"She regarded him through narrowed eyes, her tone acrid, "While you inhabit this abode, vigilance is expected."Win fell momentarily silent, absorbing her words.Kimsy's brow furrowed, "Your comprehension is yet immature. Go, refresh yourself; dinner awaits."Hesitantly, he ventured, "Actually, I've already dined.""With whom..."Win confessed, "With my Rùn phī̀ (senior brother)."Silence lingered.Acknowledging his revelation with a nod, Kimsy began to depart, but Win's tentative voice intervened, "Kimsy, if you wish, I can keep you company..."Her response was a tender smile before she faded away.At 11:30 pm, darkness enveloped the surroundings. Inspector Thai arrived at his residence, opting for a swift shower before retiring without supper.With the dawn of a new day, Win and Kimsy shared a breakfast table. The serene morning was shattered by an unexpected car horn blare. Perplexed, they deliberated; lacking an automobile and with no visiting relatives, they dismissed the clamor. Yet, the insistent honking persisted, prompting Kimsy to urge Win to investigate. Reluctantly, Win opened the door, his gaze locking onto a sight that left him stupefied, a green 'Lamborghini' now occupied the curbside, an incongruous presence before their home.Amidst contemplation, the car's window descended. Abruptly, Nib's head emerged, his voice piercing the air, "Winnnnn."Win's response remained veiled as he continued to regard the vehicle. Nib's urgency propelled another call, "Win, what's amiss, come!"Shaking off his daze, Win inquired, "What brings you here?"Nib retorted, "Just scouting the area; figured I'd bring you along."Win, taken aback, stood momentarily speechless."Please, hurry..." Nib's plea resonated.Retreating inside, Win retrieved his bag. Kimsy, curious, queried, "Who's visiting?""Rùn phī̀ (Senior brother)..." Win disclosed, poised to depart.Yet, before his exit, Kimsy pressed into his palm a bundle of Coconut rice dumplings, a renowned Thai delicacy, her words carrying concern, "Winn, your breakfast was insufficient. Savor these on your journey.""Gratitude, Kimsy."Win approached the car, and Nib courteously opened the front door, ushering Win into the seat. As the engine roared to life, Win took the wheel, steering with purpose. Suddenly, Jian and Pit's accusatory voices pierced the air, "Now, we see why the front seat was reserved!""Today, I had a strong urge to claim the front!""Heated... front seats offer views of alluring passengers.""You miscalculated, Nib."Meeting their gaze, Win interjected, "Rùn phī̀ (Senior brother), you're welcome in the front."Annoyed, Nib's outburst silenced them, "Win, no detours, and both of you, quiet!"Win acquiesced, quieting his response.Moments later, Nib noticed the tiffin bowl in his hand, a smirk forming, "What delicacy resides within?"Win's demeanor shifted slightly, but Nib deemed the inquiry unnecessary, "If you'd rather not divulge, it's fine."Win clarified, "No, it's not like that. Kimsy knew I hadn't breakfasted adequately, so she packed 'Coconut rice dumplings' for me.""Ah, Coconut rice dumplings—a personal favorite."With a smile, Win unveiled the tiffin's contents, prompting Nib to jest, "How am I meant to indulge while driving?" He lowered the bowl, a mischievous glint in his eye, "Unless you'd like to hand-feed me."Win's gesture was spontaneous as he reached for a coconut rice dumpling from the tiffin, holding it near his mouth. Nib's bright smile responded, and he relished the dumpling. Pit and Jian, observing from behind, were taken aback. As Nib savored the bite, his expression transformed, and he exclaimed, "Ummmm," playfully inquired, "Could I indulge in another, without being seen as greedy?"Win nodded, his friendly smile inviting, and once again, he presented the dumpling to Nib. The cycle repeated. Meanwhile, Pit and Jian's sneers turned into admissions of their own hunger and deprivation."We didn't eat anything at home either.""I've been starving for two days now. Remember, Jian?""Yes, I recall. But our plight, who would consider?""True."Win turned his gaze toward them, a tender smile on his lips, and gently corrected them, "You, both Rùn phī̀ (Senior brother), are mistaken.""Please, have some as well."As Win extended the tiffin to them, they brazenly seized the entire bowl, devouring its contents. Nib's anger flared at their audacity, and he reprimanded, "Pit, return Win's tiffin!"Yet, Win's reassuring touch on Nib's hand eased the tension. His smile conveyed understanding, soothing Nib's agitation. Nib returned the smile, a silent acknowledgment between them.Their shared delight in the dumplings persisted, irresistible in its flavor. Eventually, they arrived at the college, parking amidst a flurry of excitement. Girls surrounded the car, voices clamoring for Nib's attention."Nibbbbbb...""Make me your girlfriend, Nib!""Why should he choose you?""Have you seen yourself in the mirror?""Nib, ignore them...""Claim me, Nib...""Nibbbbbbb...nibbbb..."Gradually freeing themselves from the crowd, Nib and Win proceeded. While Win wished to express his gratitude, his tardiness to class compelled him otherwise. Nib's gaze lingered on Win, his eyes seeking a connection.In the classroom, Win found his seat. Professor Somchai's lecture had concluded earlier. Seated beside him was Strom, a newcomer with unkempt hair and a placid demeanor. Addressing Win with compassion, he ventured, "You're Win, right?"Win nodded, puzzled, "Yes, but how do you know me? I didn't notice you in the last class."Strom disclosed, "I joined today."Acknowledging this, Win replied, "I see..."Strom continued, "You're the one who stood up to 'The Nib Vichayaporn.'"Win corrected, "Not exactly. He offered me money to leave him be."Undeterred, Strom observed, "Regardless, no one has confronted Nib like that before. He's the trustee's son, after all."Win dismissed, "He's just human, not a beast. It's not about daring."Strom mentioned the viral pictures, "Your images with him flooded the college group. People are talking."Curious, Win inquired, "What are they saying?"Strom assessed, "I think he likes you."Win scoffed, "That's ridiculous! We're both men."Strom elaborated, "Nib is a wealthy, charismatic Casanova. The girls adore him. Last month, he got into a brawl with Titus over his girlfriend. Titus ended up in the hospital."Win queried, "Who's Titus?"Strom clarified, "You know who! In contrast, you boldly reached into Nib's pocket, and he didn't retaliate."Gazing down, Win sighed.As Professor Duang entered, Nib entered the classroom, food in hand, without seeking permission. Placing the bags on Win's desk, he apologized, "I'm sorry for my friend's behavior. You didn't have breakfast. Enjoy these."He extended a handkerchief to pat Win's face, causing a stir among the onlookers, including Professor Duang. Timidly, Win replied, "Rùn phī̀ (Senior brother), I'm fine."Nib smiled and exited, Professor Duang resumed her class, and Strom whispered, "I told you, Winn. He likes you."Feeling bewildered, Win left class, enduring the snickers fueled by the viral images. He hurried home, the gossip echoing in his ears.Meanwhile, Inspector Thai grappled with an intricate investigation, "Case 33." Small businesses and colleges were under scrutiny, yet leads were scarce. Inspector Thai lamented, "The culprit is shrewder than we thought."Inspector Earth affirmed, "Clever criminals often leave traces, sir."Inspector Thai strategized, "We must find their weak point."Inspector Earth concurred, "Absolutely, sir."Back in the college, Nib searched for Win in vain. He questioned Strom, learning that Win had left after the second lecture. Disheartened, Nib muttered, "Win wouldn't skip his lectures."Strom hesitated before sharing Win's number, facing pressure from their peers. Nib obtained the number and departed, leaving Strom with a sigh.At 7:30 pm, Win and Kimsy sat for dinner. Disturbed thoughts clouded Win's mind, his spoon pushing the food around. Kimsy, observant, asked, "What's wrong with today's meal, Winn?"Unaware, Win mumbled, "Hmmm..."Kimsy's concern grew, "Are you alright?"Struggling, Win strained, "Hmmm..."Kimsy then inquired about his availability for the next day. She needed ingredients and essentials for the kitchen.Win courteously replied, "Kimsy, you don't need to ask. Feel free to assign me."Kimsy's compassionate smile resonated.Nib, deeply engrossed in the virtual realms of a video game, found the digital landscape shattered by the insistent ring of his phone. His father, Anong Vichayaporn, graced the screen with an incoming call. The exchange that followed carried the easy banter of familiarity.Anong playfully prodded, "Rejected by someone?"Nib countered with a chuckle, "No, Dad. You know, nobody rejects your son."As the conversation meandered, Nib's upcoming visit home surfaced. Anong, genuinely curious, inquired about the last time Nib had graced their doorstep. Nib, nonchalant, mentioned a visit two months prior.Anong, wearing a quizzical expression, questioned the hiatus, "Why the gap? We're in the same city, yet I wait months to see you."Amidst shared laughter, Nib casually dismissed it.Anong persisted, the levity giving way to a more earnest tone, "Even your mother misses you."With a laugh, Nib teased, "Mom missing me? Dad, stop kidding."An unexpected shift occurred as Anong turned serious, his voice carrying a weighty undertone, "When will you let go? She's your biological mother."Undeterred, Nib asserted, "Motherhood isn't solely about birth."Anong's tone grew stern, a single word hanging in the air, "Nibbb..."Nib fell silent, recalling his childhood with his mother, Hom Vichayaporn.Though his father was present, Nib yearned for his mother's affection. Parties and work consumed her, leaving no room for bonding. The title of 'mother' held no resonance for him. He had never tasted her cooking, never felt her hand feeding him, never experienced her lap as a resting place.After high school, Nib opted for an independent life, renting an apartment to escape his past. As his thoughts wandered, Jian, his apartment mate, entered with bags, inquiring about Nib's demeanor. Finding no response, Jian placed the bags on the table. Nib questioned their contents.Exhausted, Jian explained, "I can't cook tonight."Nib's silence hung heavy. Handing Nib his credit card, Jian remarked, "Your card."Nib's anger ignited, but he swiftly calmed down, realizing his overreaction. He apologized, regretting his temper. He retreated to the bathroom, splashing water on his face to ease his frustration.Exiting the bathroom, Jian informed Nib about urgent grocery needs. Nib dismissed it, suggesting they could shop the next day. Jian requested Nib's assistance but met with a refusal due to Nib's sensitivity to grocery smells. Resigned, Jian agreed.Standing on the balcony, Nib dialed Win's number. Reluctantly, Win answered, identifying himself. Nib introduced himself and inquired about Win's well-being.Startled, Win's pen dropped as he trembled, hearing Nib's voice. He managed to respond, addressing Nib as "Rùn phī̀ (Senior brother)," only to be corrected.Nib playfully poked fun at their age difference, highlighting he was 22 and Win was likely 19 or 20.Nib disclosed that Strom had provided his number. He questioned Win's attendance the following day.Win declined, citing other commitments. As he moved to end the call, Nib teased that he wouldn't allow Win to study.Win, baffled, searched his surroundings, thinking Nib might be hiding. Nib clarified that he wasn't in Win's apartment. Win's astonishment grew as Nib revealed he had guessed Win's search.Win, still puzzled, asked why Nib was calling.Nib posed the same question Win had dodged earlier, "Why aren't you coming to college tomorrow?"Win confessed that Kimsy needed assistance shopping. Cutting the call before Nib could inquire further, Win sighed, contemplating his moonlit balcony.Nib, standing on his own balcony, contemplated the moon as well. He deduced that Win's supermarket visit would coincide with college hours, roughly between 10:00 to 11:00 am. Villa Market, within a 1.5-mile radius of "Kimsy Vila," seemed the likely destination.Content with his deduction, Nib approached Jian, volunteering to accompany him. He justified it by not wanting to inconvenience his dear friend. Nib set a condition—they would go to Villa Market.Jian questioned the decision, wondering why not Tops supermarket, which was closer. Nib remained silent, leaving Jian baffled.Meanwhile, Nib's words echoed in Win's mind, sleep eluding him despite countless efforts.The following morning found Kimsy and Win navigating the bustling aisles of 'Villa Market.' Win appeared a bit worn amidst the crowd. Nib and Jian entered the market, with Nib tasking Jian to shop using his credit card. Nib embarked on his mission—spotting Win in the throng. He found Win, who was observing the staff at the counter while Kimsy loaded the cart behind him. Suddenly, a commotion ensued as Kimsy was pushed, almost falling. Reacting swiftly, Nib caught her in his arms, leaving her mesmerized by his presence. However, Nib soon got lost in the crowd, disappearing from her view. Kimsy's gaze lingered, hope waning as Nib faded from sight.Win, perplexed by Kimsy's behavior, inquired about her focus. With a radiant smile, she praised the man who had rescued her from falling.Confused, Win asked, "Who?"Kimsy clarified, "The one who saved me."Win's eyes darted around, checking her safety. Kimsy reassured him, her hand caressing his cheek before they resumed shopping. Despite her reassurance, Kimsy's attention kept slipping to the past, hoping to catch sight of her savior once more.Now in the grocery section, Win spotted Nib again, his gaze sweeping the surroundings. He blinked, doubting his eyes, and rubbed them for clarity. Yet Nib had vanished once more, leaving Win exasperated. He sighed, muttering, "I must be losing my mind thinking about Nib."Kimsy overheard and questioned, but Win deflected, suggesting they explore the discounted section at the checkout.As they made their way there, a sudden hand grabbed Win, yanking him away from the crowd. Meanwhile, Kimsy turned around but found no trace of Win, assuming he had circumvented the crowd and forged ahead.Jian persevered through his solitary shopping endeavor, growing weary. He attempted to reach Nib, to no avail. The pit also failed to answer his calls. Frustration welled up within Jian, and he muttered audibly, "Such rotten luck.""I must've encountered some cursed omen." He raked a hand through his hair, exclaiming, "Of course, it was my reflection in the mirror this morning."As Win and Nib reunited in the quieter corner of the market, Win's astonishment was evident, "Nibbb, it's you!"Win pulled his hand away, and met with Nib's stern inquiry, "Why have you been avoiding me? You left college without informing me, and even at night, you refused to talk when I called."Win averted his gaze, silence hanging between them.Nib persisted, "I'm waiting for an explanation."The pressure became unbearable for Win. He couldn't fathom why Nib assumed the authority to question him so assertively. An edge crept into his voice as he shot back, "Why should I answer to you?""I need to go to Kimsy, she's waiting."Win made a move to leave, but Nib intervened, pressing his elbow gently against Win's back and guiding him to a nearby white wall. Nib's hands caged Win's head, their eyes locked in an intense exchange. Time seemed to stand still as heartbeats echoed. Win blinked, his gaze wavering, pulse quickening. Nib's state mirrored Win's turmoil.Win's voice held a touch of politeness as he declared, "If you think I'm intimidated, you're mistaken. This is daylight, not a nightmare.""I'm not scared of you," Win retorted, attempting to push Nib away by placing his hands against Nib's chest. "Let me go, you..." Win's voice trailed off, frustration palpable.Nib remained unperturbed by Win's words, a gentle smile gracing his lips.Win found himself bewildered by Nib's enigmatic smile. He couldn't fathom the reason behind it. He couldn't help but ask, "Have you lost your mind?" Despite his frustration, he couldn't break free from Nib's grasp. His glare met Nib's persistent smile.Angrily, Win warned, "Nibb, if you don't let go, I'll start screaming right now."However, Nib's smile remained unwavering. Nib's gaze took in Win's striking appearance – his blond hair, round cheeks, and full lips. The impulse was too strong for Nib to resist. Drawn like a moth to a flame, he leaned closer, his lips glowing with a radiant allure. In an instant, Nib's lips hovered dangerously close to Win's, their breaths intertwining in a heated dance. Win's face flushed, heart racing. Nib's lips curved, capturing the tension in the air, even sensing Win's heartbeats. A faint sound of approaching footsteps jolted them, forcing Nib to halt his advance.Win's realization of the approaching presence prompted him to consider crying out for help, but Nib's hand covered his mouth, muffling any sound. Win's muffled protests of "Mhhh...nhhhm" were met with Nib's imploring gaze. Nib swiftly assessed the situation, his eyes landing on a nearby bathroom. Urgently, he guided Win inside, shutting the door behind them.Outside, market workers entered, hauling heavy items. Inside the bathroom, Win's frustration grew, leading him to bite Nib's hand in a moment of defiance. Nib winced and scolded, "Ouchh...arghhh, You're quite the little troublemaker!"As Win attempted to open the door, Nib resisted, preventing his escape. The slick bathroom floor nearly sent them both tumbling. To avoid a collision with the back wall, Nib instinctively pulled Win towards himself, their bodies colliding. In the aftermath, they shared a relieved exhale.With Win now resting against him, Nib felt his gaze on the top of his head. Concern laced Win's words as he inquired, "Are you alright? Did you hurt your head?"Nib maintained a steady gaze on Win, his reply withheld. Still focused on his own hair, Win persisted, "Why won't you speak?"Questioning himself, he continued, "This happened because of me. I shouldn't have acted so hastily."Nib responded with a serene smile, "My mother never worried about me this much..."Their eyes remained locked, and Win's eyes welled up. A tear slid down his cheek, landing at the edge of Nib's lips. Gently wiping it away, Nib expressed remorse, "I'm sorry, Win. I never meant to hurt you. You're free to go wherever you wish."Win was silent, attempting to rise from atop Nib. However, the slippery floor caused him to stumble and fall back onto Nib, their lower bodies brushing against each other. Nib chuckled, and Win inquired, "What's so amusing?"Nib playfully whispered, "Please don't provoke it."Perplexed, Win questioned, "Provoke what?"Laughing once more, Nib clarified, "Never mind, it's beyond your comprehension."Finally on their feet again, Nib noticed a missing button on Win's shirt, exposing his smooth chest. As Win tried to adjust it, Nib held his hand, prompting Win's inquiry. Nib's gaze turned sensual, fixed on his chest, and he informed, "Your bosom is exposed."Win retorted nonchalantly, "Oh, come on. I'm not a girl."Undeterred, Nib removed his jacket and extended it, saying, "Take this, put it on."Win raised an eyebrow, "Are you kidding?"Nib's smirk persisted, "I'm not."Win mocked, "Have you seen yourself? You're always unbuttoning your shirt to flaunt your muscles."Nib retorted, "What's your problem? Everyone looks at me."Win shrugged, "It's not my concern. I'm leaving."Determined, Nib interjected, "Win, you're not leaving without wearing this."Win challenged, "Really? Let's see..."Just as Win was about to open the door, Nib tightened his grip on Win's hand, pulling him close and pressing their bodies together. Their proximity was so intimate that the air seemed trapped between them. Nib removed his hand from Win's back and firmly pressed it against his waist, eliciting a ticklish response from Win. Amidst their heightened heartbeat, Nib's voice shushed him, calming his laughter. Nib's hold on Win's hips tightened, and Win's breath hitched, whispering, "Rùn phī̀ (Senior brother)..."Nib's lips brushed against Win's earlobe as he whispered, "Ever wonder why I jest?"Gazing at Nib, Win confessed, "These moments make it hard to control my impure thoughts."Nib's eyes gleamed mischievously, "That's why I want only you to witness them. Starting today, no one but you will see my bare chest."After a pause, a smirk emerged on Win's lips, and he pushed Nib aside, grabbing the jacket. As he opened the door and hurried out, Nib followed suit. In the grocery store, Kimsy was shopping, and upon seeing Win, she questioned, "Where have you been, Winn?" Win hesitated, his soaked clothes drawing Kimsy's suspicion. She quizzed further, "Did you buy that jacket?""Why are you wet?"Suddenly, Nib joined them, revealing, "Aunt, Win was with me."Kimsy was taken aback, "Do you know him?"Nib smiled warmly, "We're college mates, good friends actually."Looking at Win, Kimsy teased, "Why didn't you tell me you have such a handsome boyfriend?"Win retorted annoyed, "Aunt, Nib is not my boyfriend."Kimsy chuckled, "Oh, come on. Friend plus boy equals boyfriend, right, Nib?"Nib grinned, "You're right, aunt. He's my boyfriend."Win glared at Nib, but Kimsy dismissed it, saying, "Let's leave it at that. Thank you, Nib, for saving me earlier."Confused, Nib queried, "But at that moment, I was just holding her."Kimsy replied with a knowing smile, "Hmmm."Win's cold stare shifted between Nib and Kimsy. Nib spoke up, clarifying, "Aunt, I didn't save her..."Kimsy encouraged, "Don't be shy, young man."Win intervened, "Nib, you saved my aunt..."Nib insisted, "It wasn't really like that. I happened to pass by, saw her falling, and reacted."With a thankful expression, Win said, "Thank you, Nib."Nib nodded, Kimsy invited Nib for dinner, but Win declined on his behalf. Nib didn't object, and Kimsy regretfully accepted, requesting that Nib be brought next time.Later, in the night, Win and Kimsy dined together. Kimsy inquired, "Why didn't you let him drop us?"Win crossed his fingers, explaining, "I didn't want to bother him. Besides, he got a call from his mom."Curious, Kimsy pressed, "Son Win, can you get me a picture of Nib?"Win hesitated, but Kimsy persisted, "Please, it's a small thing."Nib stood on his balcony, troubled. Jian berated him for leaving him waiting for hours, complaining of sore legs. Nib's focus remained on his phone, his disappointment evident.Meanwhile, at his desk, Win tried to concentrate but the bathroom incident plagued his thoughts. His phone rang, and he hoped it was Nib, yet the caller ID showed an unfamiliar number. Answering the call, a familiar voice brought an elated smile to his face. With a racing heart and unwavering gaze, Win uttered, "Nib, but this isn't your number."Nib began, "I thought you might hang up seeing the number, so I called from a new one."Win remained silent.Nib continued, "Win..."Win's voice trembled, "..."Nib apologized softly, "I had no right to touch you like that.""No right to pull you into my embrace.""No right to shower you with those kisses.""I've called many girls and ignored even more calls, but today, calling you, my hand shook.""When you turned away, all I wanted was to hold you close, never letting you go.""Winnn..." Tears welled up.In a shaky voice, Win replied, "Hmmm..."Nib's plea followed, "Can you give me a chance, please?"Win remained silent.Nib continued, "You don't have to say anything. If you don't feel the same, just hang up. I'll understand and won't bother you again."As Win began to speak, the phone abruptly shut down due to low battery. Exasperated, Win exclaimed, "Oh God!" and plugged it in to charge.Meanwhile, Jian noticed Nib's state and ran to the balcony, seeing Nib crying. He hugged Nib, concerned, but Nib didn't share. Jian noticed the phone and realized Nib had been talking to Win. Angrily, he muttered, "Winnn, I won't forgive you!"After charging, Win called Nib, but Jian answered. Furious, Jian berated Win for making Nib cry, expressing how he'd never seen Nib cry before. He warned Win to stay away from Nib and abruptly ended the call.Win pondered, "Nib was crying for me.""But I have to clarify things. I'll tell him I didn't hang up intentionally.""Should I go to him? No, he's probably sleeping now.""I'll surprise him tomorrow by confessing my feelings.""Nib, I'm only yours..." he said with a hopeful smile.A new day dawned, Win carried Nib's jacket and left for college, his heart full of joy. He closed his eyes, relishing the morning breeze. As he reached the college campus, he scanned the area for Nib. But gradually, the smile on his face faded. He checked Nib's usual spots - the hangout, canteen, classroom - everywhere, but Nib was absent. Desperation overcame him as he walked through the corridors. People greeted him and called his name, but his eyes were fixated, searching for Nib's playful grin, longing to hear his voice again.Someone grasped his hand from behind, halting Win's breath. His lips curved slightly, but the emotion vanished as he turned to see Strom. His gaze dropped.Strom inquired, "I called you like fifteen times, no response.""Where's your mind, Winn?"Win sighed deeply, "Nowhere, why'd you call?"Strom revealed his watch, "Notice the time? It's around 12:00. You've missed two lectures.""What?!"Strom confirmed, "Hmm."Win fretted, "..."Strom asked, "Looking for someone?""I don't think Nib came to college."Strom stunned, "Who said Nib didn't come? He's here."Surprised, Win asked, "Where?"Strom reported, "He's playing basketball now. Just came from there."Win dashed towards the basketball court. Strom's calls went unheard.On the court, Nib and others played basketball amid the cheering crowd. Many girls cheered for Nib. The score was tied at 1-1.Win reached the court, stood on the side, and smiled at Nib.With the score at 1-1, both teams needed one more point to win. The game resumed. Nib noticed Win but focused on the game after a shout from Jian and Pit.The ball shifted, Nib got it, opponents surrounded him, and he passed to his teammates. Nib got it again, opponents blocked, and he cleverly maneuvered and shot. The hoop echoed with excitement, and the crowd cheered. Fị s̄īn̂ảngein h̄māy t̄hụng (Blue fire) won.The players celebrated, Nib's eyes fixed on Win. Afterward, everyone headed to the common room.Win hesitated, contemplating talking to Nib. He encouraged himself and walked towards the common room. As he approached room 101, offensive noises reached his ears. His face turned pale, "Ahh, Nib, it hurts." As Win crossed the threshold into the room, his gaze immediately fell upon an unexpected scene: Nib, inexplicably holding a girl's foot. The air grew tense as the trio locked eyes, each caught in the awkward tableau. Win's eyes, once calm, flickered with a sudden intensity, their hue deepening to a fiery red. A subtle shift in his demeanor betrayed a momentary vulnerability as he lowered his eyelashes, his voice carrying a touch of discomfort."Apologies," he murmured, a fleeting admission of intrusion. "I seem to have stumbled upon an inopportune moment."As Win withdrew, a disconcerting silence lingered briefly before being broken by his departure. With a solemnity that spoke volumes, he deposited Nib's jacket onto a nearby table, leaving the room burdened by an unspoken weight. Meanwhile, Orachon, Nib's cousin's sister, couldn't help but inquire about Win's unusual reaction. With an air of curiosity, she questioned Nib, "Why did that young man look at me as if I'd stolen his boyfriend?"In response, Nib advised, "Orachon, stay here. Let me have a word with him."As Nib discreetly followed Win's path, the atmosphere hung heavy with unresolved tension. Win, en route to his class, seethed with emotions. "Yesterday, he professed his love to me, and today..."Abruptly, Nib called out Win's name, causing him to pause momentarily. Yet, the memories of the earlier encounter in the common room flooded back, and Win resumed his determined stride towards his class.Undeterred, Nib pursued him, casting their unfolding drama into the public eye. Whispers circulated among onlookers, speculating, "Could this be a lover's spat?"Nib persistently called out, "Winn... stop!"Unmoved by Nib's plea, Win quickened his pace. The entire college bore witness to the unfolding exchange, their collective curiosity heightened."Winnnn, please stop!"Finally, Win halted once more, though the reservoir of anger and hurt within him propelled him forward, rendering Nib's presence unnoticed and unacknowledged.Onlookers gossiped, "What's happening?""Love quarrel, it seems.""Nib's running after a guy for the first time.""Fever of love, perhaps.""They'll sort it out."Nib maintained his pursuit of Win, his breaths coming in rapid succession. "Where are you rushing off to?" he questioned breathlessly.The urgency of their exchange drew the attention of Professor Nin, who deftly intercepted Nib, redirecting his focus. Win halted in response, a quizzical eyebrow raised in response to the unexpected interruption. Nib silently implored with his eyes for Professor Nin to desist, but she continued undeterred."Why didn't you join me after that extraordinary night?" she pressed on, her voice carrying an air of familiarity. "Today, my husband is departing for work. Join me tonight!"As Nib's expression tightened with tension, Win let out a resigned sigh. "He even involves professors," he muttered sotto voce.Professor Nin, oblivious to Nib's subtle signals, persisted and attempted to embrace him. However, Nib sharply rebuffed her advances. "Prof. Nin, exercise restraint! This is not your domain."Undeterred by Nib's rejection, Professor Nin remained undaunted, leaving Nib with no choice but to disengage. While Nin continued to call after him, Nib pressed on in pursuit of Win.Win entered the classroom, his presence immediately drawing attention. Professor Somchai continued his lecture, unfazed, while Nib, stationed by the door, fixed Win with an intense gaze. A subtle tension hung in the air as students exchanged meaningful glances.With a resigned sigh, Nib finally broke the silence and nonchalantly rolled his neck. "Win, step outside. We need to talk."Ignoring the professor's reprimand, Nib paid no heed, and Win, with a polite tone, replied, "Rùn phī̀, I'm busy."Nib winced at Win's response. "Win...!"In a storm of emotion, Nib exclaimed, "Winnn...youu!" before storming out.As Nib left, Win, attempting to conceal his true feelings, buried himself in a book. A solitary tear escaped, landing delicately on the pages before him.Other hand, Inspector Thai arrived to discuss the '33 case' with the principal. He began, "You understand why I'm here?"The principal's face clouded, "I'm aware, Inspector."Inspector Thai added, "You must know that 11 of the 33 deceased were your college students."The principal's brow furrowed, and he began to speak, but Kiet, an employee, arrived with tea and breakfast for Inspector Thai. The inspector declined politely, and Kiet lingered suspiciously.The Principal inquired, "Is there an accusation?"Inspector Thai smiled enigmatically, "I haven't accused you, Sir. Just keep it in mind."His gaze shifted to Kiet, who left hastily.Inspector Thai continued, "So..."The Principal questioned, "So what? I'm not involved.""I've told your students to follow your principles.""What more can I do?"Inspector Thai smirked, "Indeed, what can you do?"He rose, "I'll take my leave today. Expect me again tomorrow."Principal hesitated, "Hmm."They shook hands, and Inspector Thai departed.As the Inspector left, the principal called someone, "Anong, Inspector Thai came."Anong cautioned, "I hope you kept quiet."The principal confirmed, "Yes."Anong emphasized, "Good."Anong sat in the hall, staring at Hom's room.Inspector Thai moved toward the parking area, sensing someone approaching. He turned and was shocked to see Win, smiling, "S̄wạs̄dī s̄bāy dī h̄ịm (Hello, sir how are you?)"Inspector Thai responded softly, "Good. I'm here for work.""Finished?""I was about to."Win asked, "Want ice cream? To thank you for helping us.""No need, it was my duty. I don't like ice cream.""Then coffee, lunch, sprite, juice, anything.""No."Win grabbed his hand, "Please."Relenting, Inspector Thai allowed himself to be led to the canteen. Win ordered hot coffee and sticky rice with yellow curry for himself.Inspector Thai watched Win in surprise. Win explained, "I'm hungry, it's my lunch break."Inspector Thai chuckled, and after a while, their food arrived. Nib played basketball alone as Pit, Jian, and Nine approached. Aware of Nib's state, they attempted to cheer him up.Pit suggested, "Treat for winning?""Let's go!" Nine chimed in.Jian placed his hand on Nib's shoulder, "What's with you? Let's have fun!""For that boy?" Nib retorted, "He's not 'that boy,' he's Win.""And there's a debit card in the jacket's pocket. Go enjoy." Nib added, "I'll join you later."Pit pressed, "Stay with us.""We won't leave without you."Nib yielded, and they headed to the canteen. There, they saw Win and Inspector Thai together. Nib scowled, clenching his fists.Jian whispered, "Why is Win here?""We need to get Nib out," Pit agreed.They led Nib away, but he broke free and entered the canteen, locking eyes with Win.Pit suggested, "Let's party in the room.""You agreed so easily," Nine said.Nib muttered, "We'll party here."As they sat, Win hadn't noticed them. Pit ordered food and soft drinks.Nib watched Win closely, his gaze intense. While eating, rice clung to Win's lips. Inspector Thai attempted to signal him, but Nib's anger flared.Inspector Thai removed the rice, and their eyes met. Nib spilled a soft drink accidentally.Win smiled, "Have it, please."Inspector Thai left abruptly. Win was puzzled.Returning to his food, Win's heart ached for Nib. He resumed eating, focusing on his meal.Meanwhile, Nib took the Inspector's seat, surprising Win. He dropped food on his clothes in shock.