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Chapter 24

Win's Kingdom

Love's unexpected turns

The grand gates of Win’s palace opened, revealing the familiar, sprawling courtyard lined with ornate fountains and manicured gardens. Win stepped out of his sleek, black car, greeted by the warm smiles of his household staff. However, his excitement wasn’t for them but for the two figures waiting inside—his close friend, Nani, and the man Nani had given everything up for, Sky.

As Win walked into the grand foyer, Nani stood waiting with a wide grin. “Win!” he called, rushing forward to embrace him.

Win laughed, pulling Nani into a tight hug. “Nani, it’s good to see you safe and sound.”

Sky stood a few steps behind, his posture guarded but respectful. Win’s sharp eyes darted toward him, and his grin widened. “So, this is the man who managed to steal Nani away from an entire kingdom?”

Nani blushed, stepping back as Sky extended his hand. “I’m Sky,” he said, his tone calm and resolute.

Win shook Sky’s hand firmly, then tilted his head with a playful smirk. “You’ve got quite the responsibility, you know. Nani left everything for you. Take care of him, or I’ll kill you myself.”

Sky’s eyes narrowed with determination. “On my life, I promise, I’ll worship him, love him, and protect him, no matter what.”

Nani’s cheeks turned a deeper shade of red as he glanced away, embarrassed yet secretly delighted by Sky’s heartfelt words. Win chuckled at the sight. “Well, you passed the test,” he teased Sky. “Now come, sit. I want to hear everything.”

---

The three of them settled in the lavish sitting room, with Win lounging comfortably on an armchair while Sky and Nani shared a loveseat. Win leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand. “So,” he began with a mischievous glint in his eye, “when exactly did you two fall for each other? And don’t you dare skip the juicy details.”

Sky and Nani exchanged a glance. Nani was too flustered to answer, so Sky took the lead. “It wasn’t a single moment,” he admitted. “It was little things—his kindness, his courage, the way he always thinks of others before himself.”

Win made a mock gagging sound. “Ugh, you’re one of those romantic types. I didn’t see that coming.”

Sky shrugged, unbothered. “When you find someone like Nani, it’s hard not to be.”

Nani buried his face in his hands, groaning. “Why do I feel like I’m being roasted?”

Win laughed. “Because you are. And I’m just getting started.” He crossed his legs and grinned. “Alright, tell me—who confessed first?”

This time, Nani spoke up, his voice barely above a whisper. “He did.”

Sky smirked. “He needed a little push.”

Nani swatted at him playfully, earning a laugh from both Sky and Win.

---

Soon after, Win’s parents and his younger siblings joined them. His father, King Opas-iamkajorn, was a regal yet approachable man, while his mother, Queen Opas-iamkajorn, exuded warmth and elegance. Win’s younger brother, Mick, and elder sisters, Mintra and Mesa, were lively and inquisitive, immediately bombarding Nani and Sky with questions.

Over dinner, the grand dining hall echoed with laughter and chatter. The table was filled with an array of dishes, from exotic delicacies to comfort foods Nani had always loved. The tension that had weighed on Nani and Sky since their escape began to melt away.

Mintra leaned toward Nani, her eyes wide with curiosity. “So, Nani, what’s it like being in love? Is it like the stories?”

Nani, flustered, struggled to respond, but Sky answered for him. “It’s better,” he said simply, his eyes locked on Nani’s with an intensity that made everyone else at the table grin.

Win, sipping his wine, shook his head in mock exasperation. “You two are going to give me cavities with how sweet you are.”

---

The relaxed atmosphere was suddenly interrupted when the large double doors to the dining hall opened, and a tall figure strode in. Nani froze mid-bite, his eyes widening in disbelief. “Dew?” he exclaimed, pushing his chair back and running toward the newcomer.

The man who had entered was imposing, with a lean, athletic build and a height that dwarfed even Sky. His sharp features softened into a smile as Nani threw his arms around him. “Nani,” Dew greeted warmly, lifting him slightly off the ground in a hug that spoke of deep affection.

Sky’s jaw tightened as he watched the scene unfold. His fists clenched under the table, and his expression darkened. He didn’t care who this man was—he didn’t like the way Dew held Nani so closely, as if he had every right to.

Win, noticing Sky’s reaction, chuckled. “Easy, Sky,” he said, leaning closer. “That’s Dew, my soon to be fiancé. And yes, there was a time when I used to ship him with Nani, but you don’t have to worry. That ship has long since sailed.”

Sky’s eyes flicked to Win, processing his words. He turned back to Dew and Nani, noting the way they smiled and talked like old friends. His jealousy simmered but lessened at the revelation. Still, he couldn’t help but think they looked good together, with Dew’s commanding presence and Nani’s radiant joy.

Win grinned, clearly enjoying Sky’s discomfort. “Don’t let it bother you, Sky. Dew and I are a perfect match. But I must say, you’ve got some competition for Nani’s attention.”

Sky’s lips pressed into a thin line. “There is no competition,” he said firmly. “Nani’s mine.”

Win laughed, raising his glass. “Now, that’s the confidence I like to see.”

Nani, returning to the table, finally noticed Sky’s tense posture. “Sky? Are you okay?”

Sky exhaled slowly, unclenching his fists. “I’m fine. Just... surprised.”

Nani glanced between Sky and Dew, then back to Win. “Wait, you’re going to get engaged? And you didn’t tell me?”

Win shrugged nonchalantly. “I was going to, but with everything happening, there wasn’t a good time.”

Nani pouted, crossing his arms. “Some best friend you are.”

Win reached over and ruffled Nani’s hair. “Oh, stop sulking. We can all go on a double date tomorrow to make up for it.”

Sky and Nani exchanged a look. “We’ve never been on a date before,” Nani admitted.

Win gasped theatrically. “What? Your first date will be with me? I’m honored!”

Dew chuckled, finally speaking up. “I think it’s a great idea. We’ll make it special.”

---

The next day, Win and Nani took charge, guiding Sky and Dew through the vibrant streets of Win’s kingdom. They visited all of Nani’s favorite places—hidden cafes, bustling markets, and quiet parks. Sky, though new to the experience, found himself enjoying every moment, especially seeing Nani so carefree.

By the time the sun set, the four of them sat on a hill overlooking the city, sharing stories and laughter. For the first time since their escape, Sky and Nani felt truly at ease, surrounded by friends who accepted them for who they were.

As the lights of the city twinkled below, Sky wrapped an arm around Nani, pulling him close. “This is perfect,” he murmured.

Nani smiled, resting his head on Sky’s shoulder. “It really is.”

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