The Beginning of Summer

The train ride was longer than expected, but Gemini Norawit didn't mind. With his headphones on and a soft breeze slipping through the slightly open window, he watched the endless stretch of green fields turn into coastal roads. The rhythmic motion of the train was almost soothing, lulling him into a calm state he rarely felt in the city. The scent of the sea grew stronger with each passing station, carrying with it a mix of salt, warmth, and something undeniably nostalgic.

It had been years since he last visited this town. His parents were too busy to come this time, so they sent him alone, insisting that he needed a "break from the city." Gemini wasn't sure what they meant by that. He didn't feel tired, just… restless. Maybe they noticed something in him that he hadn't. Either way, he figured that a summer away from Bangkok's constant noise and chaos wouldn't be so bad.

When the train finally came to a stop, he stretched his arms before grabbing his bag. The moment he stepped onto the platform, a wave of familiarity washed over him. The town hadn't changed much—quaint wooden houses, colorful street stalls, and the ever-present sound of waves in the distance. It was as if time had slowed down here, untouched by the rush of city life.

A familiar voice called out to him.

"Gem!"

Before he could react, a pair of warm arms wrapped around him, pulling him into a tight embrace.

"Grandma!" He laughed, his voice muffled against her shoulder.

She pulled back, her eyes filled with warmth as she took a good look at him. "Look at you, growing more handsome every time I see you," she teased, reaching up to pinch his cheek.

"Ow, Grandma!" Gemini dodged her playful grip with a grin. "You say that every time."

"And I'll keep saying it. Now, let's get you home. You must be hungry."

As they walked through the narrow streets, Gemini felt a strange mix of comfort and curiosity. The town looked exactly as he remembered—the same coconut trees swayed lazily along the coastline, the same old man sat outside his shop fixing fishing nets, and the same little café stood at the corner near the beach. Everything seemed frozen in time, yet there was an unfamiliarity that made him pause.

And then, he saw it.

Or rather, him.

Standing outside the beachfront café, adjusting a wooden signboard, was a boy Gemini didn't recognize. Dark-haired and slightly shorter than him, he wore a plain white t-shirt and an apron tied around his waist. His movements were careful, deliberate, as if making sure the sign was in perfect alignment. The sunlight caught strands of his hair, making them appear almost golden at the edges. His expression was focused—lips slightly pursed, eyes narrowed just a little.

Something about him made Gemini pause mid-step.

"Who's that?" he asked, nodding toward the café.

His grandmother followed his gaze and smiled knowingly. "Oh, that's Fourth Nattawat. His family runs the café now. He's a quiet boy, but a good one. You might like him."

Gemini raised an eyebrow. "Why do you say that?"

She chuckled, her voice light with amusement. "Because you're too loud, and he's too quiet. Balance, my dear."

Gemini rolled his eyes, but he couldn't deny his curiosity. The boy—Fourth—didn't seem to notice them as he finished adjusting the sign, stepping back to check his work. The wooden board read:

☕ Seaside Café – Freshly Brewed Happiness ☕

The simplicity of it made Gemini smile. He wondered what kind of person Fourth was. What was his voice like? Did he like working at the café? Did he ever get tired of the quiet life here?

As they walked past, Gemini stole one last glance at him.

And unbeknownst to him, Fourth had already noticed him too.

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