That's how it feels, a mixture of warmth and longing. The intensity in Theron's eyes ignites a fire within Kith. Theron is undeniably charming and attractive. Kith yearns for a lifetime with him, but deep down, he knows it's an impossible dream. Society deems their connection as wrong. Yet, Kith wonders if there's a way to overcome this notion. Is it possible for Theron to reciprocate his love? Sometimes, trying to fix what is wrong only leads to further complications and heartache.
"Arigatou."
Theron was taken aback, struggling to comprehend the simple Japanese phrase Kith had uttered.
"Arigatou zaimashita. It means 'thanks' or 'thank you' in Japanese. So, it seems you're not a fan of Japanese anime. What about Yaoi or Shōnen-ai?" Kith's voice trembled slightly as he covered his mouth with one hand, his heart pounding uncontrollably in his ears.
Why did Kith bring up the topic of Yaoi? He couldn't help but worry. He realized he had been careless, risking the revelation of his true identity to Theron.
However, Theron's confused expression indicated that he was unfamiliar with Yaoi or Shōnen-ai, bringing a sense of relief to Kith. It is not uncommon for straight boys to be unaware of this genre. Although some other straight guys may be knowledgeable about it, Theron clearly did not have any prior knowledge on the subject.
He smiled. He always gave Theron cute looks, that for Kith it was kind of luring the man he sicked with desire, but of course his smiles and wink for Theron is nothing.
Kith yearned for a love from Theron that went beyond mere friendship. However, it felt unjust to love someone who remained oblivious to his own emotions.
Is there a possibility for them to evolve beyond being best friends? If Kith were to confess his feelings, would it have an impact? Could Theron perceive him in a different light? And if they were to drift apart someday, Kith would bear the weight of his own expectations, acknowledging his mistake in believing there was more than friendship between them. The hurt he felt remained unnoticed by Theron.
"Ah, I understand. But may I ask where did you acquire that knowledge?" Theron leaned in closer to Kith, maintaining a respectable distance.
Theorn had no intention of kissing Kith, neither now nor in the future. Yet, he couldn't help but notice the alluring scent of Theron's perfume lingering in the air, a fragrance that had become inseparable from him. It was the only familiar scent that could cut through the chaos of a crowded place. How perplexing.
Theron gently tickled Kith's nose, evoking a warmth that painted his cheeks with a gentle blush. "See? Your skin is so sensitive, responding beautifully to the touch. Now, please share with me where you discovered that Japanese word. Your love for me runs deep, yet you conceal the fact that you've expanded your horizons through reading."
Indeed, I love you immensely. My affection for you remains steadfast, even if you struggle to express it in return. There's a certain enchantment in cherishing you quietly, treasuring our love as a private treasure Kith whispered but then he scolded himself.
Should he reveal to Theron that his mother is of Japanese descent? Theron may not have noticed it in Kith's appearance, as his eyes do not exhibit the typical slanted shape often associated with Japanese heritage.
It might be best for Theron to remain unaware of this detail. After all, part of Kith's plan to protect his identity involves keeping his private life secretive. "I've actually studied various languages, including French, Japanese, Thai, Spanish, and more. I even have dictionaries to aid me in my language learning journey."
Theron beamed, unaware of the impact his smiles had on Kith. "I have a surprise for you. But first, let's go out for dinner. It's my treat, and honestly, you make the perfect dinner companion. How does that sound?" His face lit up with excitement.
The thought of being the ideal dinner companion made Kith blush, hoping that Theron wouldn't notice. "Absolutely," Kith replied with enthusiasm.
"I want you to look absolutely stunning," Theron added, a playful grin on his face.
"Kiddo? Do I resemble a scarecrow, reminiscent of our encounter with those straw figures in Vigan weeks ago?" Kith coyly gazed at Theron, their presence intertwined amidst the backdrop of Vigan City, where Theron documented its Spanish architectural heritage.
Kiddo served as a tender term of endearment within their friendship. Kith remained uncertain if Theron reciprocated such sentiment in the same tender manner. The explanation lay within their age gap, with Theron possessing a two-year seniority. It seemed that Theron regarded Kith more akin to a sibling, blurring the lines of intimate affection.
"Indulging in jest, you truly embody the epitome of an abysmal scarecrow," he retorted, followed by a hearty guffaw.
Shifting the discourse, Kith inquired, "Shall we adhere to our customary rendezvous?"
His response came with a playful twist, "Negative. I shall grace your presence ere the sun's descent below the distant horizon."
Processing this information, Kith astutely deduced, "So, approximately around six o'clock, I presume."
"Indeed, during the interim, I shall be immersed in a series of inexplicable sounds and movements," he quipped, the humor in his voice evident.
Curiosity piqued, Kith inquired, "Pray tell, what does this that signify? Ah, it seems rather predictable, considering your lineage can be traced back to the audacious Tarzan clan," Kith remarked, accompanied by a smug smirk.
He chuckled. "Bye-bye. See you later, Kiddo. I'll pick you up later. I promise not to be late. I don't want my boy to wait too long." He playfully ruffled Kith's hair before turning around and walking away.
He watched as Theron walked farther and farther away. He let out a sigh. Theron's figure slowly disappeared from sight. He knew where he was likely going - to meet his girlfriend.
Although Kith tried to appear unfazed by the sight of Theron and his partner embracing next to him, he couldn't hide the anguish that was overwhelming his heart. He desperately looked for an excuse to temporarily leave the two of them behind, seeking solace in a place where he could let out all the pain. It was difficult for him to decline whenever Theron invited him to accompany them on their dates with his partner. What a thoughtless move on Theron's part.
Kith couldn't hold back the tears that streamed down his face. He mustered a smile, though it felt bitter and forced. He wiped his wet cheeks with the palm of his hand. Taking a deep breath, he turned away and left that place behind.