"Because friendship is not something that lasts a lifetime—some friends can also hurt you," Chak said.
"I won't hurt you," I assured him.
Chak stood up and walked over to me, his gaze unreadable. "You're not going to work today."
"Why not?" I asked, confused.
"Because you're going to prepare lunch for the guests."
"Guests? Who's coming?" I questioned.
"You'll find out soon," he replied, adding, "Lunch should be ready by noon, and you're cooking for four people. If the guests don't like it, forget about being my friend."
I swallowed hard and nodded. "I'll do my best."
Chak turned and walked up the stairs, leaving me alone in the kitchen. I took a deep breath, trying to encourage myself. I can do this. I have to do this.
After changing into more comfortable clothes, I returned to the kitchen and saw Chak putting on his shoes near the entrance.
"See you soon," he said. "And don't destroy my kitchen."
I chuckled, though my nerves were on edge. "I'll try my best not to. Have a good day."
Just as he was about to leave, he turned back and added, "Make Thai coconut chicken soup, roasted duck with tamarind sauce, mango vegetable salad, and sticky rice with mango for dessert."
I watched him leave, then grabbed my phone to search for recipes. My hands trembled slightly as I scrolled. This had to be perfect. Not just good—perfect.
Time passed quickly as I cooked, and before I knew it, it was 11:50. I inspected the dishes carefully—they looked decent, but was that enough? I took a deep breath, feeling my stomach twist with anxiety. *If this isn't good enough, what will he do?
After setting the table, I heard the front door open.
Chak entered first, followed by two men. The first one I recognized immediately—it was Chai, Chak's younger brother. He was slightly shorter than Chak, with softer features and a mischievous glint in his eyes. He carried himself with an air of confidence, dressed in casual yet stylish clothes. The second man, I assumed, was Chai's boyfriend. Tarn was taller than Chai but had a gentle presence, his neatly styled hair and kind smile making him seem approachable.
Chai approached me with a warm smile. "I'm Chai, Chak's brother," he said, extending his hand.
I shook it. "I'm Niran. I work at the company."
Chai raised an eyebrow. "And what are you doing here?"
"I live here," I replied simply.
Chai exchanged a glance with Tarn before smirking. "Interesting."
Tarn then extended his hand. "I'm Tarn. Chai's boyfriend."
"Nice to meet you," I said politely, my eyes briefly flicking to Chak, who remained silent, watching our exchange.
Then Chai gestured toward the food. "Did you make all this?"
I nodded. "Yeah. I hope it's edible."
"If it's not, forget our agreement," Chak stated coldly.
Chai frowned. "What agreement?"
"That's between us," Chak responded curtly.
We sat at the table and started eating. Throughout the meal, I could feel Chai's gaze on me, as if he were analyzing something. My hands felt clammy as I held my fork, trying not to show how nervous I was. What if they don't like it? What if I mess up?
Finally, Chai set his fork down and leaned on his elbow.
"You know what's strange, brother? No one who has worked for you has ever set foot in your house, let alone lived with you."
Chak placed his glass of water down, his sharp eyes locking onto Chai. "What are you implying?"
Chai didn't falter. "I just never expected you to have an employee who not only lives here but also isn't afraid of you."
A brief silence fell over the table. I glanced at Chak, but his expression remained unreadable—cold as ever. I swallowed hard, my appetite nearly gone.
Then Chai smirked playfully at me. "Niran, you really are something special."
Chak's brow twitched slightly, and he set his fork down with a small clatter. "Don't talk nonsense, Chai," he said, his tone dangerously low.
But Chai wasn't done. He turned to me. "And how is he toward you?"
I hesitated, pretending to think, though I already knew my answer. "He's… strict." I glanced at Chak, who showed no reaction. "But… I think he trusts me more than others."
Chai scoffed. "My brother doesn't trust anyone."
Tarn chuckled, looking at Chak with curiosity. "I have to admit, this is really unusual. You usually have strict boundaries. Why Niran?"
Chak shot him a cold look before returning to his plate. "Don't be nosy."
Chai rolled his eyes, grinning. "It seems like you have a soft spot for him, brother."
Chak placed his utensils down and leaned back. "He's my employee. Nothing more, nothing less."
But the way his gaze lingered on me for just a second longer told a different story.