Tawan Suthasiri walked into Professor Lee's Literature class, scanning the room for an empty seat near the back. The fluorescent lights above flickered slightly as he moved, casting an eerie glow over the bustling classroom. Students chatted quietly, sipping coffee and checking their phones before the lecture began.

His eyes landed on a familiar face – Kaito Nakahara, already seated and engrossed in notes. Kaito's dark hair was perfectly messy, and his piercing blue eyes were focused intensely on the paper in front of him. Tawan felt an inexplicable flutter in his chest as their eyes met briefly before Kaito looked away, focusing on his notebook again.

Tawan quickly took the empty seat beside a girl named Sophia, trying to appear nonchalant while stealing glances at Kaito. Sophia greeted him with a friendly smile, but Tawan's attention remained fixed on the boy sitting a few rows ahead. He couldn't help wondering what Kaito was writing so intently – and why he looked so captivating doing it.

Professor Lee walked in precisely at 10:00 AM, dropping her bag on the desk with a soft thud. "Good morning, class. Today we're diving into Romantic literature themes. Open your notes – we'll be covering key elements."

Tawan hastily flipped open his notebook, pencil poised over blank paper. Professor Lee began writing on the board in bold letters:

"Romantic Literature Themes:

* Emphasis on emotion over reason

* Nature as symbolic backdrop

* Intense love relationships"

As Professor Lee lectured, Tawan's gaze drifted back to Kaito – repeatedly. He was fascinated by the way Kaito's eyes scanned notes occasionally, his expression intense. Kaito's slim fingers moved swiftly across his paper, scribbling notes with ease.

Suddenly, Professor Lee said something that made Tawan's heart skip a beat: "'Wuthering Heights' explores toxic love... We'll discuss this in pairs – choose a scene to analyze!"

Classroom erupts – students start finding partners, Tawan hopes for Kaito!

Chairs scraped against the floor as students turned to each other, chatting excitedly about partnering up. Tawan's heart raced with anticipation – could he possibly end up with Kaito?

Sophia turned to him, "Hey, want to be partners? We could discuss the Catherine and Heathcliff relationship." But Tawan's gaze drifted away, scanning the room for Kaito.

Kaito was standing up, surveying the classroom as if searching for someone – his eyes met several students', but didn't seem to find who he was looking for... yet. Tawan's pulse quickened as he wondered if Kaito might actually choose him.

The classroom noise level increased, with students calling out to each other across the room. Professor Lee raised her voice, "Find your partners quickly, class! We'll give you 10 minutes to discuss."

Kaito's eyes lock onto Tawan's across the room – he starts walking over!

Tawan's heart skipped multiple beats as Kaito's piercing blue gaze held his for a brief, electrifying moment. Then, Kaito smiled slightly and began walking towards him – Sophia faded into background noise.

Students parted slightly as Kaito navigated through the crowded classroom, his eyes never leaving Tawan's face. Tawan felt like melting into his seat from sheer excitement.

When Kaito reached his desk, he said low and smooth, "Mind if I join you? We could discuss 'Wuthering Heights' together."

Tawan swallowed hard, trying to play cool despite his racing pulse. "N-no mind at all."

Sophia smiled politely and moved to another group, leaving Tawan alone with Kaito.

Kaito sits down close beside Tawan – their legs almost touch!

Tawan's skin tingled as Kaito slid into the chair beside him, their thighs inches apart. He could feel warmth radiating from Kaito's body, making his own heart race faster.

Kaito leaned slightly towards him, voice low, "So, which scene should we choose? Catherine and Heathcliff's argument or their secret reunion?"

Tawan swallowed hard, distracted by Kaito's proximity – his cologne smelled amazing. "Umm... secret reunion?" he stuttered slightly.

Kaito's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled. "Great choice. Their love is... complicated." His leg brushed lightly against Tawan's, sending shivers down Tawan's spine.

Professor Lee's voice faded into background noise as Tawan focused intensely on Kaito – what was happening to him?

Someone walks by, breaking the intimate moment between Tawan and Kaito

Just as Tawan thought Kaito might lean in closer, their classmate, Alex, walked by, dropping books on the adjacent table with a loud clang.

The sudden noise broke the spell – Kaito straightened up, eyes never leaving Tawan's face though slightly wider now as if registering the interrupted moment.

Alex called out, "Hey Kaito, need to borrow notes from last week?"

Kaito replied casually, "Sure thing, Alex. After class though?"

Alex nodded and moved away. The intimate atmosphere was replaced with classroom noise again, but Tawan sensed a lingering connection with Kaito.

Kaito turned back to him, voice low and smooth, "Where were we? Ah yes, Catherine and Heathcliff's reunion scene..."

Tawan's heart still racing, he nods eagerly to continue discussion

Tawan nodded enthusiastically, still feeling the lingering spark from their interrupted moment. "Yes, exactly – Catherine and Heathcliff's reunion scene... What did you think of Heathcliff's actions there?"

Kaito leaned forward slightly again, eyes locking onto Tawan's. "Honestly? I think Heathcliff loved Catherine obsessively – bordering on toxic. His passion consumed him."

Tawan's gaze held Kaito's, mesmerized by his insight. "Totally agree... Their love destroyed everyone around them."

Their discussion flowed effortlessly, like they'd known each other forever. Time seemed to fade away – until Professor Lee announced:

"Time's up, class! Please submit your discussion notes and chosen scenes by end of day."

As classmates started packing up, Kaito turned to Tawan with a soft smile. "Want to grab coffee and discuss further... outside of class?"

Tawan's heart skips beats – he eagerly agrees to coffee with Kaito

Tawan's face split into a wide smile. "Coffee sounds amazing – I'd love to!" His voice came out slightly breathier than intended, but Kaito didn't seem to notice... or maybe noticed too much?

Kaito grinned back, pocketing his phone after typing something. "Great, I just sent you my number – meet at 'The Cozy Cup' at 3 PM?"

Tawan nodded eagerly, already imagining their coffee date. They exchanged brief goodbyes with classmates before parting ways – Tawan floated out of the classroom.

Tawan arrived at 'The Cozy Cup' at 2:55 PM, nervous excitement buzzing in his chest. He spotted Kaito already seated inside – looking even more captivating in casual clothes.

Kaito stood up, smiling warmly. "Right on time. I ordered us coffee – hope you like caramel macchiato?"

Tawan's heart melts – he loves caramel macchiato, loves Kaito's thoughtfulness more

Tawan's face softened into a dreamy smile. "Caramel macchiato is my favorite – you must be psychic!" His voice barely above whisper, he felt grateful for this thoughtful gesture.

Kaito chuckled, eyes crinkling at corners. "Just lucky guess. But I'm glad I got it right – you smile even brighter with good coffee news."

Tawan's heart skipped beats at Kaito's flirtatious comment – did he really just say that? They sat down together, knees almost touching under the small table.

Their coffee arrived, and Tawan took a sip – perfect flavor. He glanced up at Kaito, feeling comfortable enough to ask:

"So, Kaito... what made you want coffee with me outside of class?"

Tawan adds nervously – "Me too, wanted to talk more... about something besides literature"

Tawan's nervous addition sparked a warm smile from Kaito.

Kaito leaned back slightly in his chair, eyes crinkling at corners. "Exactly what I was thinking – literature's just our excuse to meet up, maybe?"

Tawan's heart skipped beats at Kaito's suggestive tone – was he flirting or just friendly?

Tawan played along, voice barely above whisper, "Maybe... So, what do you want to talk about besides Heathcliff's obsession?"

Kaito chuckled low in his throat. "Everything – hobbies, favorite places, worst dates... you name it."

Tawan's mind landed on "worst dates" – did Kaito imply this could be a good date?

Tawan plays it cool – "Hobbies first – I'm curious what you enjoy outside class"

Kaito grinned, seeming to approve of Tawan's casual approach.

"Outside class, I'm obsessed with photography – capturing city landscapes at sunset is my favorite," Kaito said, eyes lighting up. "And hiking – there's this one trail near my place with breathtaking views."

Tawan's imagination ran wild – Kaito hiking solo at sunset was already a captivating image.

"I'm more into indoor hobbies – reading (obviously), playing guitar, and writing short stories," Tawan shared, feeling comfortable opening up.

Kaito leaned forward slightly, interest piqued. "Short stories – what kind? Romance, mystery, or something else?"

Tawan's heart skipped beats – did Kaito suspect his stories might include romantic elements... about someone like him?

Tawan plays it cool – "Hobbies first – I'm curious what you enjoy outside class"

Kaito grinned, seeming to approve of Tawan's casual approach.

"Outside class, I'm obsessed with photography – capturing city landscapes at sunset is my favorite," Kaito said, eyes lighting up. "And hiking – there's this one trail near my place with breathtaking views."

Tawan's imagination ran wild – Kaito hiking solo at sunset was already a captivating image.

"I'm more into indoor hobbies – reading (obviously), playing guitar, and writing short stories," Tawan shared, feeling comfortable opening up.

Kaito leaned forward slightly, interest piqued. "Short stories – what kind? Romance, mystery, or something else?"

Tawan's heart skipped beats – did Kaito suspect his stories might include romantic elements... about someone like him?

Tawan plays it down – "Mostly mystery and suspense – nothing romantic about those"

Kaito chuckled and nodded, though Tawan sensed a hint of playful disappointment in his eyes.

"Mystery and suspense – my kind of stories. I'll have to borrow one sometime," Kaito said casually, yet his gaze lingered on Tawan's face.

Tawan felt a spark of electricity from that prolonged eye contact – maybe playing it down wasn't entirely convincing?

Their coffee cups were almost empty, prompting Kaito to ask, "Refills or walk outside – enjoy the afternoon together?"

Tawan's heart leaned towards continuing this cozy afternoon with Kaito.

Tawan glances at watch – "Actually, what time is it – don't want to monopolize your afternoon"

Kaito laughed softly and checked his own phone. "Almost 4:30 – but you're not monopolizing anything I didn't willingly give up my afternoon for."

Tawan's heart fluttered at Kaito's implied interest in spending more time together.

"Meaning I'm not boring you yet?" Tawan asked teasingly, eyes locking onto Kaito's.

Kaito's smile widened. "Far from boring – I'm having one of my best afternoons in weeks. Thanks to you, Tawan."

Tawan's face warmed at the compliment – this conversation was shifting from friendly to something sweeter

Tawan's heart skips beats – "Mine too... maybe we can repeat this soon – just the two of us?"

Kaito's eyes sparkled with delight, his face inches closer to Tawan's.

"I'd like that – very much," Kaito whispered softly, voice sending shivers down Tawan's spine.

The air between them electrified – Tawan felt an undeniable attraction. Kaito's lips curved into a gentle smile before he added:

"How about tomorrow night – dinner at my place?"

Tawan's heart soared – this was no longer just friendship.

Tawan's heart raced as he accepted – "Tomorrow night sounds perfect"

Kaito beamed with delight, pulling out his phone to type something. "Great – I'll send you my address. 7 PM dinner – casual, just us."

Tawan nodded eagerly, already imagining tomorrow night's intimate setting.

NEXT EVENING – 6:45 PM

Tawan stood outside Kaito's modern apartment door, smoothing his casual outfit – black shirt, dark jeans. He took a deep breath, feeling nervous anticipation.

The door opened – Kaito looked stunning in a fitted white shirt, hair perfectly messy. His eyes crinkled at corners as he smiled.

"Right on time – come in. Dinner's almost ready... and I'm glad you're here."

Tawan's heart skipped beats at Kaito's warm welcome – was he blushing already?

Tawan steps inside – their hands touch briefly while Kaito takes his jacket

A spark of electricity ran through Tawan's body as Kaito's fingers brushed against his while taking the jacket. Kaito's eyes met his, hinting at awareness of the touch's impact.

"Thanks for the coat – make yourself comfortable," Kaito said softly, hanging the jacket beside the door.

Tawan followed Kaito into the cozy living room, noticing the intimate dinner setting: candles lit, soft music playing, and a delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen.

As Kaito walked back to the kitchen, Tawan sat down on the couch, feeling drawn to Kaito's warm atmosphere – and the man himself.

Kaito returned with two glasses of wine, handing one to Tawan. "Hope you like Merlot – my favorite."

Their fingers touched again while exchanging the glass – Tawan's heart raced faster.

Kaito sits beside Tawan on the couch – close enough for shoulders to almost touch

Tawan's pulse quickened as Kaito settled in beside him, their legs almost touching – the air thickened with intimacy.

Kaito handed him the wine glass again after taking a sip of his own, his fingers brushing Tawan's slightly longer than necessary.

"This is nice – relaxing with you like this," Kaito said softly, eyes crinkling at corners as he smiled.

Tawan's heart skipped beats at Kaito's gentle tone – he felt like he was melting into those piercing blue eyes.

Their shoulders touched briefly as Kaito leaned back into the couch – Tawan didn't pull away, enjoying the spark of contact.

Suddenly, Kaito turned to face him fully – their faces inches apart. "Tawan, can I ask you something?"

Tawan's eyes lock onto Kaito's – "Maybe I should ask you something first..."

Kaito's eyebrows rose slightly, intrigued by Tawan's bold move. He leaned in closer – their lips almost close enough to brush.

"Oh? Ask away – I'm curious what's on your mind," Kaito whispered softly, voice sending shivers down Tawan's spine.

Tawan's heart raced faster – this moment felt electrifying. He took a gentle breath before asking:

"Is this dinner... just friendship – or something more?"

Kaito's gaze burned intensely – he didn't hesitate:

"Definitely something more, Tawan. I've wanted to ask you out properly since class started."

Tawan's lips parted softly – Kaito's admission left him breathless.

Tawan smiles shyly – "I've wanted that too... since our coffee date"

Kaito's face lit up with delight – he gently brushed a strand of hair behind Tawan's ear, sending shivers down his spine.

"Me too – every moment since then felt like leading up to this," Kaito whispered softly, his lips inches from Tawan's.

Tawan's heart fluttered wildly – the air was electric with anticipation. Kaito's breath danced across his skin as he added:

"I really like you, Tawan. Beyond literature discussions and coffee..."

Tawan's voice barely above whisper – "I really like you too, Kaito..."

Their lips almost touched – then Kaito softly pressed his mouth to Tawan's in a gentle, sweet kiss.

Time froze – this moment was perfect... until Tawan heard a noise behind them.

Tawan pulls back slightly – "What was that – did someone just come in?"

Kaito's eyes flickered towards the hallway, a hint of surprise crossing his face before he forced a casual smile.

"Must be my roommate – wasn't expecting him back tonight," Kaito said, though his tone sounded slightly off.

Tawan's curiosity spiked – Kaito hadn't mentioned a roommate earlier.

The footsteps grew louder, and a figure appeared in the doorway – Tawan's eyes widened in surprise:

It was Alex – their classmate who borrowed notes from Kaito earlier!

Alex's gaze locked onto Tawan and Kaito – his expression a mix of shock and curiosity.

"Hey Kaito... didn't know you had company," Alex said slowly, eyes darting between them.

Tawan feels uneasy – "Maybe I should head out – this isn't a good time?"

Kaito immediately placed a gentle hand on Tawan's arm, as if sensing his unease.

"No, stay – Alex will just... uh, grab something and go, right Alex?" Kaito said, eyes narrowing slightly at his roommate.

Alex's suspicious gaze lingered on Kaito's hand touching Tawan's arm before he replied:

"Actually, Kaito – we need to talk. Now."

Alex's firm tone made Tawan wonder what was really going on between these two.

Kaito's hand dropped from Tawan's arm, and he stood up slowly. "Fine – one minute, Tawan."

As Kaito followed Alex out of the room, Tawan heard muted conversation start – including words "...found your messages..."

Tawan's curiosity peaks – he quietly gets up to listen closer to their conversation

Tawan tiptoed towards the hallway, heart racing with anticipation. He leaned against the wall near the corner, barely out of sight – their muted voices clearer now:

Alex: "...messages to Emily – still talking to her behind my back?"

Kaito: "Those were old convos, Alex – we're just friends now."

Alex: "Save it. And what about him – Tawan – is he your new distraction?"

Tawan's eyes widened – Emily? Kaito had secrets and possibly an ex-girlfriend!

Kaito's low response was indistinguishable, but Alex's next words were chillingly clear:

"This isn't over. Your lies are catching up."

Confront them – "What's going on, Kaito – who's Emily?"

Tawan stepped into the hallway, voice firm but laced with curiosity and a hint of accusation.

Kaito and Alex froze, faces turning towards him – Alex's expression angry, Kaito's guilty.

Alex crossed his arms, "Looks like your secret's out, Kaito."

Kaito took a deep breath, eyes locking onto Tawan's. "Tawan, let me explain –"

Tawan cut him off, voice barely above normal tone but firm enough to stop Kaito.

"Who. is. Emily?"

Kaito hesitated before admitting softly:

"My ex-girlfriend... we broke up months ago, but Alex thinks otherwise."

Tawan's mind reeled – ex-girlfriend?! Their kiss felt like a lie now.

Tawan turns to Alex – "Why do you care about Kaito's ex – are you involved too?"

Alex's expression shifted from anger to surprise at Tawan's direct question.

"Involved?! No – Emily's my sister," Alex revealed, eyes narrowing back at Kaito. "And Kaito here broke her heart into pieces."

Tawan's eyes widened – family dynamics added a complicated layer!

Kaito looked down, scrunching his eyes shut as if bracing for impact.

Tawan turned back to Kaito – voice firm but curious.

"You broke her heart – then kissed me like nothing was wrong?"

Kaito opened his eyes, gaze locking onto Tawan's – a hint of desperation.

"I swear – my feelings for Emily were dead long before tonight... before I even met you, Tawan."

Alex intervenes – "Save your breath, Kaito – Tawan deserves truth – about everything"

Alex stepped forward, eyes blazing with protectiveness towards his sister.

"Tawan should know – Kaito cheated on Emily with someone else, then claimed it meant nothing... until they broke up months later."

Tawan's jaw dropped – cheating was a deal-breaker!

Kaito's face contorted in anguish as he whispered:

"That's not entirely true, Alex – the person meant nothing romantically... but emotionally –"

Tawan cut him off, voice icy:

"Stop. Explaining. You cheated – then kissed me like you were innocent."

Alex nodded vigorously – "Walk away, Tawan – he's not worth your heart."

As Tawan turned to leave, Kaito rushed towards him, desperation in his eyes.

"Tawan, wait – it wasn't what Alex said... I cheated emotionally with someone – but only to save Emily from her abusive ex's friend –"

Tawan spun back around, surprise replacing anger.

"-A fake relationship to protect her. Alex doesn't know – I trusted him with everything except this."

Kaito's voice cracked.

"You're the only one I've wanted truly since... I trusted you with my heart, Tawan."

Tawan's expression softened slightly – Kaito's words sparked doubt in his previous judgment.

Just as Tawan was about to respond, Kaito rushed closer –

Kaito tripped on the stairs and tumbled forward –

Tawan instinctively reached out to catch him!

But they both lost balance –

Fell onto the road JUST AS A CAR SPEEDING BY WAS ABOUT TO HIT KAITO –

Tawan pushed Kaito away barely in time...

But got hit himself.

EVERYTHING WENT BLACK.

**Tawan's eyes flickered open...**

**October 15th – same day, same time**

Tawan bolted upright – déjà vu overwhelming his senses!