muarrikh

[muarrikh]

what kind of flower are you?

19th of February

>> Birth Flower: Violet >> Language of flowers: Small happiness >> Message: Big happiness is the accumulation of many small happiness. Small happiness is the start of the big happiness.

[muarrikh]

let me tell you your darkest desire

to be a daydream

you wonder if anyone has ever seen you on the street and heard violins swell. you want to be the kind of beautiful that makes them envision a grand romance in the silver screen of their heart. even if it's just for a minute. (you are more than an object to be desired)

[muarrikh]

SHIN PHUKET ESTATE

KamalaKathu, Phuket, Thailand 5 Bedrooms, 5 Full Bathrooms Villa Santisuk Kamala Headland

Villa Santisuk is a beautiful, five bedroomed contemporary styled villa with clear Asian influence, situated at the top of a private oceanfront estate facing west towards the open ocean with amazing 360 degree and sunset views over the Andaman Sea

The villa is designed so that it’s twin-level main living areas form a focus beside the 20m long infinity-edge swimming pool. Key to the design concept is that off from the main living pavilion there are many private areas to allow guests to disperse or join one another in different areas, shaded, or open. The blending of the indoors with the outdoors is achieved by use of extensive folding, sliding doors to create seamless transitioning from inside the villa spaces to the outside. High 3m+ ceilings and generous room sizes project the luxury of space even within the intimate and private bedroom areas. Extensive water features from the impressive entrance walkway to the ‘in water’

sala area at the southern end of the pool, to the outdoor spa showers in the bathroom areas several with cascading waterwalls promote a sense of tranquility and give the villa its name; ‘Santisuk’

[muarrikh]

SHIN PHUKET ESTATE

KamalaKathu, Phuket, Thailand 5 Bedrooms, 5 Full Bathrooms Villa Santisuk Kamala Headland

Villa Santisuk is a beautiful, five bedroomed contemporary styled villa with clear Asian influence, situated at the top of a private oceanfront estate facing west towards the open ocean with amazing 360 degree and sunset views over the Andaman Sea

The villa is designed so that it’s twin-level main living areas form a focus beside the 20m long infinity-edge swimming pool. Key to the design concept is that off from the main living pavilion there are many private areas to allow guests to disperse or join one another in different areas, shaded, or open. The blending of the indoors with the outdoors is achieved by use of extensive folding, sliding doors to create seamless transitioning from inside the villa spaces to the outside. High 3m+ ceilings and generous room sizes project the luxury of space even within the intimate and private bedroom areas. Extensive water features from the impressive entrance walkway to the ‘in water’

sala area at the southern end of the pool, to the outdoor spa showers in the bathroom areas several with cascading waterwalls promote a sense of tranquility and give the villa its name; ‘Santisuk’

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 18th, Wednesday, late afternoon. Location: Shin's estate in Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, a little over an hour flight from Bangkok. Mood: Peckish. Interested. Attire: See above. With: Vee, Kyu-bok, Dong-ho, Nasir, and friends.

Angel isn't so sure how it happened but it did. He - he's in Phuket. With Kyu-bok. And some 'friends' from Seoul. And some US diplomat's son who is trying to get with his best friend. On a trip he didn't know was even happening until he woke up very early this morning to be told to get ready and pack stuff.

What's even more surprising is, his new bodyguard that Dong-ho-hyung hired came with them...

He goes directly to the kitchen to get snack as soon as they arrived at the house that supposedly his family owns... He'd never been in this place. It's gorgeous. But too luxurious for his taste. It would've been better to put up a tent by the beach and have fun that way... Staring at the skies after the sun set...

Anyway, he decids to stay up while many of the people he flew with headed to their rooms to nap, shower or change...

He's gonna sit around the kitchen and stare at his new bodyguard who's instructed by his Dong-ho-hyung to keep an eye on him. At all times.

Good thing the man in charge of him isn't bad to look at...

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 18th, Wednesday, late afternoon. Location: Shin's estate in Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, a little over an hour flight from Bangkok. Mood: Quiet. A bit tired. He also has a headache... Attire: See above. With: Kyu-bok, Nasir, Angel, Vee, and friends.

It's been a couple of hours since the Shin/Choi/Thorne party arrived in one of the lavish properties owned by the Shin family. The house is situated by the ocean and very close to a lot of restaurants, clubs, and shopping areas.

With other securities watching over Kyu-bok, Angel, and Nasir, Dong-ho took some time to relieve the headache he'd developed since they aboard the Shin's private plane. He showered and changed in a comfortable attire. He needs to take a breather before he changes back to his usual clothing o fulfill his duty as head of security for today's party...

Earlier today when things were decided that Kyu-bok and his guest, Nasir will be going to Phuket, Dong-ho was given the details. Who would be joining the pair - Kyu-bok was not allowed to travel on his own and so Dong-ho is joining him so as Angel. Angel of course brought his own body-guard. On top of that, Dong-ho picked an addtional five more to keep security tight. Angel invited a few of their friends to join them to Phuket as well. The party will be staying for a week. Or so. Depending on everyone's mood, although Dong-ho was sure Nasir won't last that long. The man's a workaholic... But then again, people change...

He just hopes that tonight, when everyone's in the partying mood, things would go smoothly.

One of his men just contacted him, informing him that most of the guests are napping. Must be tired from the flight....

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 18th, Wednesday, late afternoon. Location: Shin's estate in Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, a little over an hour flight from Bangkok. Mood: Cautious, determined Attire: See above. With: Dong-ho, Nasir, Angel, Kyu-bok, and his charges' friends.

Vee knew that there was no way he'd be working at IGNITE in the foreseeable future, not after he attacked the owner's son. He was angry about it, but not because of the lack of work, but instead because of how that Alpha thought he had the god-given right to treat Omegas so disrespectfully.

Thankfully. he wasn't jobless for long. He quickly accepted the offer to work as the personal body guard to Angel, the Omega whom he had saved twice now. The pay that came with the job was good, better than anything Vee had been earning before. And it offered travel opportunities, apparently.

Currently, Vee was in Phuket, invited along to work his new job. The estate they were staying at was incredible, huge, making him feel slightly out of place. He focuses on what Dong-Ho, the head of security, told him - stick close to Angel and keep eyes on him at all times.

Right now, his charge is in the kitchen, searching for a snack. Vee hangs around, arms crossed in front of him and sleeves rolled up as he inspects the place out of interest, occasionally glancing over to Angel. He figures this won't be a hard job...

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 18th, Wednesday, late afternoon. Location: Shin's estate in Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, a little over an hour flight from Bangkok. Mood: A bit tired but mostly excited Attire: See above. With: Dong-ho, Nasir, Angel, Vee, and friends.

Kyu-bok could hardly believe that his parents had given him permission to go on this trip. Sure, it was on the condition that he go with his potential mate Nasir and with extra security, but at least he wasn't under house arrest anymore. Plus, his best friend Angel was with him, and their friends, and that very handsome bodyguard that had saved them at the club last week.

They had packed and left early, arriving at the Shin's beach estate in Phuket. Kyu-bok unbelievably excited almost bouncing off the walls in the plane. He didn't have specific plans on where to go or what to do, but he was going to take full advantage of the area, and leave no stone unturned.

Most of their party was napping right now, or at least resting from the flight. Angel was in his own room with his security, and Kyu-bok was alone, unpacking. He wouldn't wait for the others to wake up so they could get started on having fun.

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 18th, Wednesday, late afternoon. Location: Shin's estate in Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, a little over an hour flight from Bangkok. Mood: Wired. Excited? Thrilled. Most definitely. Attire: See above. With: Kyu-bok, Dong-ho, Angel, Vee, and friends.

Nasir didn't expect it to happen so quickly. Maybe he thought he would've discussed more about it with Kyu-bok, about going to Phuket. But apparently, the Shin estate has eyes and ears everywhere and their little discussion about going to the southern part of the country reached the elders and they decided to make it happen for the possible couple.

The trip was put in motion very early in the morning. Some close friends visiting from South Korea was invited to the party and by late afternoon, they were flying over to Phuket. They arrived at a very luxurious property by the beach.

Nasir's not new to luxury but seeing the wide ocean right in front of his eyes as he stood inside the beach house just made him realize how very few people have way too much richest in their hands...

He set those thoughts aside and decided to enjoy the trip. At some point he would have to talk to Kyu-bok about the supposed plan to stay for a week or so. He has work and might not be able to stay for that long.

Although, the trip did wake up something in him. He has all the time in the world to get to know Kyu-bok a lot more in this place.

And then there's Dong-ho.

The stern bodyguard who accompanied them to Phuket.

Is the universe telling him something?

[muarrikh]

Nasir was taken by surprise when he heard the younger man’s giggles. The Omega looked even more adorable with the man’s eyes turning into slits and lips stretched into a smile. Pretty was an understatement. He was sure his mother saw what he was seeing now in Kyu-bok. His mother favored soft features but he’d always been one to go with someone with - a stern facial structure?

He shook the ideas in his head, still being reminded of Dong-ho who stood not so far from where he sat with Kyu-bok. It was hard to leave the past behind, he’d known this for a while. But he was realizing more of it now that he’d laid eyes on who he considered his ‘first love.’

But something in Kyu-bok was comforting, too. He’d seen a lot of the world and it seemed that the young Omega in front of him had yet to explore and experience more of life. Not that he was an expert on it but surely he had things he’d like to share with the young Omega. And he found it exciting. 

"Okay…”

Kyu-bok finally replied.

“Okay?” He confirmed. “Awesome,” he continued, leaning in to hear more as it appeared the young Choi had more in his head.

“That sounds really nice. We can go sight-seeing together. Do you have any place you want to see? I haven't been out to the famous places, just some cafes and clubs. Actually, I really like to go out dancing. I mean, it's where I usually get in trouble but it's super fun. Do you go clubbing Nasir?"

“I’d love to see everything,” he then said, beaming. “We can go to famous places and then we can go dancing at night… Phuket,” he named the southern province he’d heard so much about from his parents. “I heard they have wonderful beaches down there. If we can arrange to go, spend some time down there, would you go?” Was he getting too excited? He’d been working a lot the past months and he needed some vacation, that’s true but there was still the case of the Arikun artifacts he had to investigate. He remembered what his parents told him - Take as much time in Thailand as he can. Get to know the young Omega. He’d been an obedient son since childhood. No sense in questioning his parents’ advice now. He grinned at the thought, “I’m sure one of these security men would accompany us to our trip. Keep us out of trouble?” He once again thought of Dong-ho and how the man used to keep him in line as well. Did he do the same for Kyu-bok? 

“If we don’t get in any sorts of trouble while we are young, then how do we get to enjoy our youth?’

Kyu-bok giggled, a bit surprised that someone so well put together like Nasir seemed to be on the same page as him. Kyu-bok had heard the lecture many times from his parents about not getting himself into trouble, but it really did seem to find him. He understood why - he was an Omega who smelled nice, and that tended to attract all kinds of attention. Not only that, but Kyu-bok had a very carefree attitude - if he went out dancing, he would dance, and that often caused people to look at him too. It wasn't fair that it was on Kyu-bok to be mindful of these sorts of things, and obviously his parents didn't understand his perspective.

But it looked like Nasir did, which made him feel a bit more comfortable with him. He'd hate if he ended up matched with an Alpha who wouldn't let him leave the house or who would constantly be on his case about how he lived his life. Not like he and Nasir were set as a couple in stone - but thankfully, Kyu-bok's parents at least seemed to have picked someone nice for him to start talking to. Kyu-bok didn't agree with his parents' opinion of getting him married off, but he knew that it came from a place of love. Of course they wouldn't match him with someone he hated.

When Nasir asked him about Bangkok, Kyu-bok answered honestly. He was hoping to go and explore more of it with Angel, but had been very bluntly told that that wouldn't be happening after what happened at IGNITE - at least, not yet, when the event was still fresh in everyone's minds.

“Is that so? I’ve been - when I was very little. My parents ah, traveled a lot… So my sister and I, we got to visit a lot of places but I don’t remember anything about our trip here, if I’m being honest. We can go sight-see together, if that’s okay with you. I do have a business meeting in the following days but for the most part, I’m free. I mean, if you don’t mind my company, that is.”

Kyu-bok lightly chewed on his bottom lip, glancing up at Nasir with his big brown eyes as he contemplated that offer. Going out on the town with an almost stranger... Kyu-bok had done it before, but not with someone like this - someone he had to impress, someone he had to act a certain way around and keep up an image for. Nasir did seem interested in spending more time with him. Part of Kyu-bok liked that - he was such a handsome Alpha, one any Omega would be proud to be seen out with. And he was nice so far. They would have security too, so they'd be safe. And of course, it would allow for Kyu-bok to actually be allowed to leave the house, since he was still under house arrest at this time. Hmm...

"Okay," Kyu-bok said, his smile returning. "That sounds really nice. We can go sight-seeing together." Saying it aloud settled Kyu-bok - he knew it was the right decision to have made. "Do you have any place you want to see? I haven't been out to the famous places, just some cafes and clubs." Kyu-bok's eyes shined a little. "Actually, I really like to go out dancing. I mean, it's where I usually get in trouble but it's super fun. Do you go clubbing Nasir?"

[muarrikh]

old flame

Timeline: 2025 March 17th, Monday, 11:11 P.M. Location: Shin's estate, outside Bangkok, Thailand. Mood: Conflicted. Curious... Attire: Nasir is wearing something semi-formal to dinner arranged by the Shin family. With: @seuua

Nasir was certain what he wanted - needed to do the moment he laid eyes on Dong-ho, the man he had a very heated and passionate relationship with during his younger years. Meeting the man again unexpectedly sparked the past, the man’s stern face ignited memories he didn’t realize he held onto for so long. He only kept them to the side, hidden behind achievements and other life happenings. It only needed to be triggered by the man’s sight and Nasir was back during his early 20’s when he was about to start a new chapter of his life. He realized he never talked to Dong-ho properly. Never gave their relationship an ending or a closure. Did he promise he’d be back? He didn’t say it out loud but it was planted in his head that he would be back for the man who confessed his love for him in the backseat of a private car while they went at it for the first time… He remembered responding with the same fervor and that moment marked him. He was sure then that Dong-ho was for him and he was for Dong-ho. But what happened? Was he too young to nurture such a relationship? Was he not truly invested? Watching the man with a firm expression on his face brought him back feelings that cultivated emotions of guilt, making him think about the what ifs… Alone… They were alone for a moment; the Shin and the Choi families had gone to their quarters and only a few staff and security members roam roam the property, including Dong-ho who stayed behind as he remained seated in the backyard, by the pool, contemplating on his meeting with Kyu-bok and now watching the well-known profile of the bodyguard…

To Nasir’s surprise, Dong-ho left his post and started approaching him. His heart pounded in his chest, making him feel like he was that young university student again. Dong-ho’s fierce eyes stared at him and as always, he couldn’t read the man’s face. What was Dong-ho thinking?

“Good evening, Sir. If you’re ready to retire to your room, I will accompany you.”

Nasir looked up with curious eyes at the head of the Shin security, attempting to read the man’s thoughts. “What if I’m not tired yet?”

“You can stay out here for as long as you want, Sir. I’ll be right over where -”

“I changed my mind…” Nasir then said, standing from his seat and clasping his hands behind his back. “Take me to my room.” 

Dong-ho nodded and led the way. For the first few seconds, Nasir walked behind the tall man - He drank in the familiar form, broad back, trimmed waist, strong thighs, and long legs… Still the same fit body he knew back then… Before any other thoughts began seeping in his brain, he took a few longer steps to catch up to the bodyguard. 

“You still walk really fast.”

“Can’t help it.”

Nasir secretly smiled. The simple reply confirmed he wasn’t forgotten. There was familiarity to the tone. The small back and forth was a nod to their connection in the past. But it didn’t guarantee that there were no hard feelings. Dong-ho was professional and even if he stomped on Nasir, the man would remain strict, following his job.

“I have long legs but you know I walk slow -”

“One would think that with your busy life, your feet would learn to adapt.” Dong-ho gave him a small glance, the man’s voice was neutral but, was that a hint of teasing?

He didn’t comment on it. He kept the smile on his face as well. A deep breath and then he spoke, “So, you’re still with the Shins…”

“It’s - more than a job at this point, you could say.”

“An investment.”

“Something of that sort.”

“But you also work for the Choi family.”

“The Shins and the Chois are inseparable.”

“They’ve been working together for a long time.”

“You did your homework.”

“I’d have to know what I’m getting myself into.”

There was silence; the strides continued.

“Kyu-bok -”

“Is a respectable young man… He’s kind. Smart…”

There was softness in the bodyguard’s tone, Nasir noted. And it tugged at his heart. “That - I learned first hand…”

“You look good together.”

“You would think so.” Dong-ho used to make the same comments when they were together. It confused him. Did Dong-ho want him to be with other people? Did the man think he wasn’t enough for Nasir? The bodyguard’s words now had the same effect on him and he didn’t understand why he didn’t like it. “He wants to go out. Clubbing.”

“I’m sure you’re well aware what happened the last time he did,” Dong-ho stopped in his tracks, the man eyeing him.

He stared back and saw concern written all over the other’s face. He read what he’d seen in the man’s eyes before, when the other used to look at him with the same expression. “You care about him.”

Dong-ho didn’t reply; the bodyguard continued on inside the vast house without responding at first and then the other spoke, “He’s an important part of my job. I’m tasked to keep him and you safe.”

“Me?”

The bodyguard abruptly stopped in front of a large door. “Your room, Sir,” Dong-ho said, even opening the door for him.

Nasir stood there, staring at Dong-ho for a moment, a lot of questions forming in his head but realizing this wasn’t the time to ask any of them. Perhaps once he was alone with the man again? He told himself as he spotted another security in similar attire walking down the hallway. He was briefed that the man approaching will be on duty for the rest of the evening.

“I will be back in the morning to accompany you and Kyu-bok-ssi to your next schedule,” Dong-ho informed him and then bid him good night.

Nasir watched his ex-boyfriend walk down the hallway before disappearing around the corner. The door behind him slowly closed then. The night was long and he didn’t sleep right away. He was plagued with various thoughts.

Of Kyu-bok. And Dong-ho.

[ end ]

[muarrikh]

Nasir’s eyes flickered, watching the young Omega giggle, smile reaching the other’s eyes which turned into slits. Very pretty, he thought to himself, once again feeling at ease at his decision to listen to his parents and follow their advice to meet the young Choi… He wasn’t sure what was happening yet, but it looked promising. At least on his end. He liked what he was seeing. Appearance-wise, Kyu-bok wasn’t exactly his type. He thought of Dong-ho who still stood close by… Strong, stern, confident man with a big build. He had to admit that that was what drew him to the bodyguard at first. Physical attraction yes but it turned into something much deeper…

Pushing those thoughts to the side, he focused on Kyu-bok, appreciating the beauty before him. He’d had flings with people that resembled Kyu-bok but for a reason, he felt the young Choi was a lot different. Well, maybe it was the family the man belonged to, the name attached to the face… 

But the soft face that stared back at him made him realize that it was more than that. He believed Kyu-bok was special. And it was up to him whether he’d like to find out in what way or not… 

"That's fine with me. Whatever you're comfortable with. And don't worry... trouble seems to follow me around too. It might as well be my middle name." 

The smile on Nasir’s face widened, keeping his gaze on the Omega. “If we don’t get in any sorts of trouble while we are young, then how do we get to enjoy our youth?’ He said, nodding his head. He was aware of the recent event that happened at one prestigious club in Bangkok that involved Kyu-bok. The specifics were shared with him by his parents' PR person. It didn’t matter to him. Although it did concern him about the young Choi’s safety. He wondered if from now on, Kyu-bok would have someone like Dong-ho to watch over him? 

He asked about the young Choi exploring Bangkok -

"I've not seen much of it, but I like it so far… Have you been here before? This is my first time. I'd like to sight-see, but don't know where to start."

“Is that so? I’ve been - when I was very little. My parents ah, traveled a lot… So my sister and I, we got to visit a lot of places but I don’t remember anything about our trip here, if I’m being honest,” he explained then continued. “We can go sight-see together, if that’s okay with you. I do have a business meeting in the following days but for the most part, I’m free. I mean, if you don’t mind my company, that is,” he lowered his head, emphasizing the look he gave the young Omega. It was as if he was trying to convince the man to give him a chance, to get to know him. It wasn't his plan to work this hard to get the Choi’s heir’s approval but it seemed he was actually looking forward to spending more time with the man… 

Kyu-bok wasn't sure what to make of Nasir. The knowledge that the man was here as a possible marriage candidate honestly made the Omega want to run far away, reject him outright before even getting to know him. Maybe it was unfair of Kyu-bok to do that - but it didn't set well in his stomach, that his parents were arranging these kinds of thing in the first place. He had suspected for months that that's where his life was headed, but now that it was in the flesh and staring right at him Kyu-bok felt totally and completely unprepared.

At least Nasir seemed nice. He wasn't pushing or prying like some of the other Alpha diplomats that Kyu-bok had met through his family's work, inquiring about whether he was on the market or not. He hadn't been then, but he was now. After what happened at IGNITE, it felt like his parents were even more adamant that he settle down...

"Are you sure?"

Kyu-bok insisted that he was alright when the Alpha asked, but his nervousness must've shown either through his voice, body language, or scent.

“You - don’t have to pretend with me. I know what kind of situation we have and I understand it. I promise, I won’t force you into something you don’t want. I’m only here to meet you… Nothing more, nothing less…”

Kyu-bok stared at the Alpha, trying to gauge whether or not the other was really as genuine as his words were implying. He had been thinking only of himself up until this point; his arrangement, his marriage. It had escaped him that Nasir might be in the same boat as he was. Perhaps he too was following the orders of his parents, to find an Omega to mate with, continue their family's legacy and bloodline, just as much of a victim of circumstance as Kyu-bok was.

Kyu-bok ended up smiling, this time a genuine one, not the forced manufactured illusion he put on when they had been eating dinner with the Shin family to keep up appearances of politeness. When the other asked for how he'd like to be called, Kyu-bok answered, thinking this might be a nice way to dissolve some of the awkward first-meeting tension they both must be feeling.

“K? Cute. I like it. It’s easy and simple to remember. Who could forget that?”

Kyu-bok giggled, offering the other a coy shrug in response. Nasir would not have been the first person to call him cute, but it didn't seem like he had the intentions that other Alphas had when they did - which was good, because after being nearly assaulted the other day he wasn't exactly looking forward to another's hands on him.

Unless those hands belonged to Dong-ho...

Kyu-bok accepted the drink that Nasir handed to him, trying not to dwell on that thought about Dong-Ho. He and guard... what they did in his room the other night, Kyu-bok lifted into his arms and pressed against the wall while their lips entangled in a hot kiss... Dong-ho saying they shouldn't but doing it anyway...

The Omega let out a breath, trying to settle his nerves. He forced himself not to look at Dong-ho, instead focussing on Nasir.

“Kyu-bok… Is also a very nice name. I think I will call you by your given name, if that’s okay? And you can call me Nasir. Everybody does. Only my mother would call me by my full name if I’m in trouble. Just.. Don’t ask how often.”

Well, that was something Kyu-bok could relate to. He let out a light laugh, mirroring the Alpha's actions by taking a sip of his cocktail before responding. "That's fine with me. Whatever you're comfortable with." Kyu-bok told Nasir. "And don't worry... trouble seems to follow me around too. It might as well be my middle name." The Omega said, a little sigh on his lips. He didn't know how or why he always seemed to find himself in a predicament, like some kind of old film damsel constantly in distress, but it did always seem to find him.

“Are you enjoying your stay here in Bangkok? The weather is humid but I like it. How about you?”

"I've not seen much of it, but I like it so far," Kyu-bok admitted. He didn't exactly what to tell Nasir that he had been on house arrest these past couple of days, but he hadn't had a change to explore much else since his arrival. "Have you been here before? This is my first time. I'd like to sight-see, but don't know where to start."

[muarrikh]

The young Choi was quiet and barely ate his dinner. Nasir understood that this might not be a position the younger man wanted to be in. He was in the same boat as the Omega, as far as arranged marriage goes, but their situation was very different. If he went home now and told his parents there was nothing there, no connection, no spark,  his parents would be disappointed but he knew they wouldn't force him to be in a relationship that wouldn’t work out.

The thing was, despite feeling some type of way on how he was meeting the young Omega, he was curious. Curious enough to invite the young man for a drink. They might not be out in the city, bar hopping, but the private backyard of the Shin family would do…

He’d been distracted by Dong-ho as well though… Catching himself watching at the serious man who wore his face stern, eyes fixed to the front, as if staring into oblivion. But he knew better than to be fooled by that seemingly distant gaze. Dong-ho was alert and probably had been listening to his conversation with the young Omega… He wondered if Dong-ho knew the purpose of his visit? He decided to worry about that later and focus on the younger man sitting beside him. 

"Oh, I'm alright…" The Omega replied when he asked how the man was feeling. 

“Are you sure?” He stared into the other’s eyes. “You - don’t have to pretend with me,” he then said. “I know what kind of situation we have and I understand it. I promise, I won’t force you into something you don’t want. I’m only here to meet you… Nothing more, nothing less…” It was better to express what he couldn’t say in front of the Shins earlier. He hoped that his sentiment would ease the Omega around him. He heard of what happened to the young man with his friends a couple of nights ago. He was not supposed to know it. His parents neither otherwise, they would’ve told him. And he was keeping it to himself. The information slipped from the mouths of one of the bodyguards earlier when he arrived this morning. He wondered if it was the reason why he was requested to meet the Omega sooner… 

The mechanics of his mind continued to wind as he tried his best to engage the young Omega who he knew was called Kyu-bok. Pretty name. He’d known a lot about honorifics and Korean customs and cultures. He was even more eager to learn all about it because of Dong-ho… He stole a glance from the man’s way before turning his ear back to the Omega. 

"You can call me Kyu-bok… Or K, if you prefer. Most people call me K. What about you, Nasir-nim? Do you have a preference?"

“K?” He smiled, “Cute,” he continued, genuinely liking the nickname. There was a joke to be made but he thought it was too early. He settled with the feeling he got from the knowledge and enjoyed it. “I like it. It’s easy and simple to remember. Who could forget that?” He picked up a glass of cocktail and handed it to the young man. “Kyu-bok…” He raised another glass of drink and brought it to his lips. “Is also a very nice name. I think I will call you by your given name, if that’s okay? And you can call me Nasir. Everybody does. Only my mother would call me by my full name if I’m in trouble,” he squinted, nodding his head. “Just.. Don’t ask how often,” and continued to drink, liking the fresh and cold mix they were served. 

“Are you enjoying your stay here in Bangkok? The weather is humid but I like it. How about you?” 

Timeline: 2025 March 17th, Monday, 7:00 P.M. Location: Shin's estate, outside Bangkok, Thailand. Mood: Reserved, a bit sad, nervous Attire: Fitted pants and a button-up long sleeved shirt... he feels like he's suffocating in it, honestly With: @muarrikh

Two days.

It had taken only two days after the IGNITE incident for Kyu-bok's parents to have him meeting a potential suitor.

When the young Omega received word from his parents - still in Seoul - that he would have to play host to a visiting Alpha, he had almost dropped the phone from his hand. Kyu-bok tried to argue against this but his parents would listen to none of it. Hearing about how close Kyu-bok had gotten to being taken advantage of by an Alpha at the club not only had him berated by his parents for his destructive behaviour, but fast-tracked their decision to get him married off. For his safety, they told him, but Kyu-bok saw it as another form of control.

Kyu-bok wasn't allowed to leave the Shin estate for those couple of days, put under house arrest. Even though he wasn't in charge of the property, his parents had made it very clear he was to act as the perfect host for the Alpha, and that they would hear about it if he did anything that might ruin their family's prestigious reputation. Even Angel couldn't do anything about it - Kyu-bok's increased security had him unable to breathe without anyone knowing about it. He felt stuck, stifled, trapped - and it all came to a head when the night came that he met the man his parents had been talking to him about.

Nasir was nice, Kyu-bok would give him that. He had been the stranger that Kyu-bok had seen when he had been sitting alone in the garden that morning, thinking perhaps this was a friend of Angel's. He hadn't put two and two together that this was the suitor, since he was still so upset about being in this situation in the first place.

Dinner was quiet, on Kyu-bok's part. The Shin family was in attendance, so the Omega felt like he couldn't say much, but he did respond to Nasir's occasional questions - Yes, the weather was fine; No, I haven't see much of the country; I arrived here this week, it's my first time; My family might be coming to visit too, but I don't know when...

Kyu-bok didn't really have an appetite, nibbling on pieces of food here and there but ultimately opting out of eating. He thought it would be over after dinner, but then Nasir invited him outside, and Kyu-bok had to oblige. At least this way, if they talked, the Shin family wouldn't be watching over him and reporting back whatever he said to his own parents in Seoul. Dong-ho was hanging around though, so he couldn't be too open about his feelings on marriage to Nasir. Plus, even though Kyu-bok was always happy to see his hyung, he was still very confused about what happened between them the other night. Kyu-bok had been drunk, so maybe he had been reading everything wrong, but he couldn't forget how Dong-ho had made him feel so warm down there, intentionally rubbing his crotch with his thick thigh. They hadn't spoken about it, and Dong-ho had been suspiciously distant, mostly just doing his job as security since that night.

Nasir's stare seemed to linger on Dong-ho too, and Kyu-bok didn't blame him for that. Hyung was very attractive, especially when he was holding himself back...

"Are you alright? If you're uncomfortable, we can go back inside. I just thought we could talk a lot better out here."

Nasir spoke, drawing Kyu-bok out of his thoughts. The pair now had drinks in hand, and other than Dong-ho hovering a few feet away from them, they were relatively alone.

"Oh, I'm alright," Kyu-bok assured the Alpha, swallowing a bit thickly. Maybe it would be better to get to know him away from the rest of the Shin family - though every part of Kyu-bok's being wanted to reject the other out of pure defiance.

"I also wanted to ask you something..."

Kyu-bok cocked his head to the side, staring up at the good looking man with curious eyes. He nodded to encourage Nasir to continue speaking.

"Is there anything in particular you want me to call you? A nickname maybe?"

Kyu-bok was aware of different cultural customs when it came to addressing others since his parents both dealt with foreigners for work, but that was a good question. Nasir seemed respectful - unlike a few other people who Kyu-bok had met in the past few months, who he expected his parents to set him up with.

"You can call me Kyu-bok," The Omega told him. "Or K, if you prefer. Most people call me K. What about you, Nasir-nim? Do you have a preference?"

[muarrikh]

not a date

Timeline: 2025 March 17th, Monday, 7:00 P.M. Location: Shin's estate, outside Bangkok, Thailand. Mood: Quiet. Distracted. Conflicted. Curious... Attire: Nasir is wearing something semi-formal to dinner arranged by the Shin family. With: @not-so-special-k

It was an eventful evening starting with dinner with the Shin family and Choi Kyu-bok, a young man that was formally introduced to him by his hosts. The timid Omega his parents spoke highly of. They sat next to each other during dinner and barely spoke. He didn't push much but he managed a small talk.

"Are you enjoying Thailand's weather? How long have you been in the country?" And so on. He received short replies but he didn't mind. This was the first time he was meeting the man. Not like he was going to marry the Omega the day after. His mother just wanted them to meet. To see if there could be something there.

"The Shin and the Choi are good families to be on your side," his father simply said and he knew what was packed within that one comment. He'd have to try. He'd have to at least see if there was a connection. His parents would never force him into doing something he didn't want. But he needed to show effort, show that he's part of the family and supports it.

He had some time off and besides, he was also in the country for work. Historical artifacts. That was his speciality. Particularly haunted and possessed ones. The vampire clan, Arikun, one of the oldest families in this part of the world had plenty of them. They allowed him to investigate a few pieces and he couldn't wait to get his hands on them. Literally.

After dinner, he invited the young Choi for a drink by the pool. That was when the night a little more interesting. On the way to the pool in the back of the mansion, he spotted a familiar stern face. Was that -

No. It can't be. His eyes followed the figure in crisped tailored black suit. The man stood a few feet away from him and the young Omega.

Drinks were then and he turned to the man, "Are you alright?" He asked, catching the other's eyes. "If you're uncomfortable, we can go back inside. I just thought we could talk a lot better out here. I also wanted to ask you something..." He paused, fixing his gaze on the Omega's face, reading the expression written on it. The younger man was pretty. Almost too pretty. Too good to look at but he found himself staring. "Is there anything in particular you want me to call you? A nickname maybe?"

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 17th, Monday, very early in the morning... Location: Private gym near his residence in Bangkok. Attire: See above. He's working out coz he's like - the fuck. Mood: Quiet. Distracted. Conflicted.

Dong-ho hasn't had sleep yet. The night before, he received an envelope with private information about the Shin family's new guest. When he read the name on the paper within the envelope, Dong-ho felt numb, like ice cold water was dump over his head. Nasir Thorne. A man from his past is coming to Bangkok and will be staying with the Shins. But the purpose of the man's visit was further revealed in the information shared with him. Nasir is to meet with Choi Kyu-bok for a possible marriage arrangement. And the Shin and Choi family requested that he handle security for both Nasir and K. He's conflicted. Although he'd moved on and hasn't really thought about Nasir that much, he wondered how he's going to react around the man. And is golden boy even aware that he still works for the Shins? Possibly. Or maybe Nasir had long forgotten. Thinking too much gave Dong-ho a headache. He decides to spend time at the gym, working out before his day finally starts...

[muarrikh]

golden boy

Timeline: Dong-ho remembering 2016, Spring in South Korea. Nasir was 20 and he was 24. Location: Car park of a prestigious hotel during a diplomat dinner... Mood: Horny; confused... Attire: All black suit, black Italian leather shoes - Suit's disheveled... Music: U Got It Bad by Usher With: @muarrikh

"Shut up with "I thought you were a good boy" shit. I've made out with you long enough, now stick it in."

"What have you been doing down there?"

"I dunno… Stretching myself."

"You sure you wanna do it? Here?"

"Any place is good enough as long as it's with you."

I remembered smirking, my eyes rolling. Despite being so fucking turned on, I couldn't help feeling charmed by him… The golden boy. The good son. The future of the world. Nasir was everything. He turned heads, attracted everyone around him. And I just couldn't believe that I was secretly dating him... I met him during his first trip with his politician father in Seoul... We flirted plenty. Made out a lot. Touched and made each other cum countless times... Never truly got down to it until that one spring night... Maybe Nasir's 7th or was it 8th visit in Seoul? We were in this empty car down in the parking lot while everyone in the hotel's conference room had their a few million won dinner plates... We fumbled, my cock in hand ready to thrust inside him...

"Do you say that to all of your boyfriends?"

I was a nobody. Maybe just a fling to him, right? Who knows how many others he was dating in New York.

"Fuck..."

His hand slid between our bodies; I stared into his eyes and felt his hand guiding my tip to his hole. He was loose. It excited me, momentarily forgetting my insecurities. He was a beautiful young man and at that moment, he let him be mine...

"Hold up, I don't wanna hurt you -"

"I can't wait anymore -"

It didn't help that he was persistent. I gave in, thrusting myself half-way in. It felt so fucking good. His body gripping around me. He pulled me in for a kiss and said, "Keep going," tears peaking in the corners of his eyes.

"You sure?"

He kissed me in response; our tongues intwined. A whine escaped him as I pushed harder, feeling myself getting lost in him. Oh god, the trouble we would've been in if someone caught us... But I remember the thrill, the feel of his hot body against mine and the sounds his hole made...

"Just so you know -" He moaned out, "You're the first one I let top me."

I - didn't know what to say. Surely he was lying, right? But he held onto me and called my name repeatedly. His cock throbbed between our sweaty bodies... I went deeper and harder inside him and before I knew it, I had completely lost control. It didn't matter where we were or who could've seen us -

"I - love you."

Fuck. That didn't mean to come out out loud. No, no. I meant it at that time. I did. But I didn't mean to put him in that situation. I didn't want him to think I was pressuring him into something. I truly felt that for the first time. Falling in love. But I could've kept it. Just - kept it until I'd forgotten about it and it faded and turned into a good memory.

I heard a chuckle and then a groan.

"I thought you would never confess."

I was confused but then he pulled me closer, kissed my ear, and gave me a response. After that, it didn't really matter what happened next. I lived in the moment. Remembered everything that happened. Until at one point in time, I almost forgot about it. Until his words almost faded. Turned into a good memory.

[ end ]

[muarrikh]

Timeline: 2025 March 17th, Monday morning. Location: Shin Estate outside of Bangkok, Thailand - under house arrest by his parents. Mood: Wistful, a little annoyed, a little curious. Attire: See above - comfy black jumper, jeans.

To say that Kyubok's parents were angry because of what happened at IGNITE a couple of days ago was an understatement. Kyubok - who had begged and begged his parents to let him go and visit his friend Angel in Bangkok - was currently under "house arrest" at the Shin estate, kept under close watch by the bodyguards his family had sent with him to keep him safe. He's a little annoyed because he wants to go out and explore Bangkok with Angel, but this time no amount of begging worked. His parents - who were arriving to Bangkok soon from Seoul - instructed that he remain on the estate grounds and was not to leave.

Kyubok has been sighing dramatically all day, trying to bribe his family's bodyguards to turn a blind eye so he could slip out. Unfortunately, that wasn't working. He was doomed to remain here until his parents gave him the okay to go - and Kyubok had no idea when that would be. Considering how dire the situation at IGNITE had gotten, probably not for a while.

Kyubok was sitting in the estate's garden, bored, when he spots a handsome stranger walking by. The omega frowns slightly to himself, wondering if he knows the man. Was this a foreign friend of Angel's maybe? Or someone who worked with his parents? Hmm...

Kyubok watches him curiously from where he sits...