Taeng had been explaining kitchen survival tips to me for two hours straight, trying to make sure I wouldn't turn Chak's kitchen into a disaster zone. It felt like he was trying to make me remember more things than I could actually use.
I sighed and leaned on the table. "Good thing I have you. I had no idea there were so many cooking rules."
"I just hope they help," he said with a half-smile. "But listen, you really need to tell Chak that Lun isn't your boyfriend. Maybe then he'll cool down."
I rolled my eyes. "I tried to tell him that there's nothing between me and Lun anymore, but he won't even let me get a word in."
Taeng nodded. "Lun really showed up at the worst possible time." He paced for a moment before looking straight into my eyes. "How did you feel when you saw him?"
I thought about it for a moment before slowly answering. "Weird. I can't really explain… I mean, I'm glad we stayed friends, but that's all." I glanced at Taeng and gave him a small smile. "I'm also glad I have the best friend who listens to me, gives me advice, and helps me."
Taeng grinned. "I'll always be here whenever you need me."
We paid the bill and went for a short walk to get some fresh air. The city lights flickered around us when Taeng suddenly asked,
"By the way, where does Chak even live?"
I sighed. "No idea. He said he'd send me the address, and I really hope he does it soon. Otherwise, I won't know when to wake up in the morning."
Taeng smirked. "An incredible adventure awaits you."
"Oh, shut up," I muttered.
Just then, my phone rang.
I glanced at the screen, and for a moment, my heart skipped a beat. Chak.
Taeng smirked mischievously. "Speak of the devil…"
Taking a deep breath, I pressed the green icon. "Hello?"
Chak's voice was as cold and direct as ever. "I sent you the address. Be on time."
"I understand, sir," I replied quietly.
"Don't forget the documents, and I expect you to do your job without unnecessary trouble"
"Yes, sir."
I heard the call end before I could say anything else. I just stood there, staring at my phone, my mouth slightly open.
Taeng patted my shoulder. "So? Where does he live?"
Swallowing hard, I handed him my phone so he could check the address.
"Whoa, fancy neighborhood," he murmured, handing it back to me. "Well, at least you won't suffer in bad conditions."
But all I could think was that I was walking straight into a trap—one I might never escape from.