The Weight of His Tears

Chapter 4

Sky's usual bright energy had disappeared, leaving a void that everyone around him couldn't help but notice. The warmth he exuded—the light that seemed to fill any room he walked into—was now go away, buried under the weight of doubt.

He sat in the corner of the drama rehearsal room, flipping through the script in his hands. The words blurred together, his mind far from the scene they were supposed to rehearse in order for the play of New year events that the University holds.

Sky didn't know how much longer he could keep up this charade. Normally, he would have brushed off Nani's antics with a laugh, following him around like a loyal shadow, always ready to brighten his day. But this time was different. they felt like knives, cutting deeper with each passing moment.

Sky sighed, leaning his head back against the wall as the echoes of laughter and chatter from his classmates filled the room.

Should he keep braving the storm that was Nani, holding on to the faint hope that things might change? Or should he finally let go, even if it meant shattering his own heart to protect what little remained unbroken?

But His chest tightened at the thought of walking away.

Sky had tried to ignore it, tried to convince himself it was just a silly crush, but the truth was impossible to deny now.

He cared about Nani, more than he ever thought he would. But caring came with a cost, and right now, it felt like the price was too high.

A soft knock on the door pulled Sky from his thoughts. Song and Jame stepped in, they scanning the room before landing on him.

Song and Jame are Sky's close friend, they studied in the same high school, but at that time they were not this close until they entered the same company. Sky was the one want to continue his course in acting, Jame and Song decide to follow him around without much thought.

"There you are," Song said, closing the door behind her. They walked over and plopped down beside him, Song expression both curious and concerned.

"Skipping lunch isn't like you," she said "What's going on?"

Sky hesitated, his gaze dropping to the script in his lap. "Nothing. I'm just... tired."

Jame arched an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Sky, you're always running around with boundless energy like a caffeinated squirrel. Don't tell me you're just tired."

He let out a small laugh at Jame word. "It's... complicated." Sky said with a weak smile.

Song leaned back, crossing her arms. "Does this 'complicated' have anything to do with a certain playboy?"

Sky stiffened at her words, his silence giving her all the confirmation she needed.

"Your face scream that loud out." she said, her tone softening. "Sky, you can't keep letting that play boy pull you in every direction. you don't have to suffer,"

"Song, it it not that easy, if it is really easy as you thought, our puppy wouldn't look like this." Jame said.

Song turned to her boyfriend, "I get it. It's not easy," she said, her voice soft but firm. "But, Sky, you need to ask yourself—how much more of this can you take? You look like you're on the verge of breaking."

Jame sighed, scooting closer to Sky and placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Jame chimed in, his tone lighter to ease the tension. "Look, Sky, we're not saying you need to make a decision right this second. But whatever you choose, we're here. If you want to cry, scream, or even just eat an obscene amount of ice cream, we've got you."

Sky couldn't help but smile at that, a small, fleeting smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

Song ruffled his hair affectionately, her usual sass returning. "You'd probably run yourself into the ground chasing after a playboy. Good thing we're here to keep you sane."

"Alright, enough heavy talk. Let's focus on the script for this play. You don't want everyone in the class to think the 'puppy sunshine' has turned into a sad raincloud."

Sky chuckled softly, his heart feeling a little lighter.

As they turned their attention back to the script, Sky knew he wasn't ready to make a decision yet.

Evening

The practice went well, and Sky had been chosen for a lead role, paired with his classmate June. June, an actress from another agency who had continued her acting career here at Bangkok, shared almost the same personality as Sky. Both of them were like the sunshine of the class—always cheerful, always radiating positivity. June come form a warm family, with a Japanese father and Thai mother, only added to her vibrant and warm demeanor.

"Sky, want to try the new ramen shop that opened near the University?" June said with her playful tone, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I just checked the reviews, and it looks so good—almost like the ones in Japan."

"Really? Yes, why not. Jame, Song, are you coming too?" Sky said, turning to the couple.

"We've already booked tickets for the cinema, Sky," Song said with a sad face, giving one of Sky's arms a tight hug.

"That's okay, we'll come later," Sky replied, patting Song's head gently. His words were soft, reassuring.

June couldn't help but smile at the sight of Sky's and Song's cute behavior. It was clear how much they cared for each other, even in the little things.

All of them walked out of the University together, but they soon went their separate ways. Sky and June arrived at the ramen shop, stepping inside with a sense of anticipation. The small restaurant was cozy, with warm lighting and the delicious scent of steaming broth filling the air.

June led the way to a corner booth and slid into the seat across from Sky. "This place looks just like something out of Japan," she said with a grin, clearly pleased with their choice.

Sky nodded, taking in the familiar, comforting vibe. "Yeah, it's nice. Feels like a little slice of home."

They settled in, the buzz of conversation around them blending with the anticipation of the food to come , as he enjoy the food with June. For a moment, Sky forgot about the tension that had been hanging over him all day, if only for just a little while. But the luck doesn't stay with him too long.

All of a sudden, a group of people walked in, their chatter loud. From afar, Sky found them familiar, As they got closer, it clicked for Sky—Nani and his friends.

Groya and Prim walked in front of Bright and Win, followed by Nani. Prim was the first to notice Sky, her eyes widening slightly as she recognized him across the room.

"Sky," Prim waved at Sky before making her way towards his table.

"Prim, are you also here for the ramen?" Sky asked, trying to keep his tone casual.

"Of course I am," Prim replied with a small smirk, "You're not the only one who's excited about the new opening."

"Actually, I'm not the one who found it," Sky admitted, glancing at June who was seated beside him. "June is the one who wanted to try it."

Prim's gaze shifted to June, who she recognized from their shared work at events. "Oh, June! It's been a while since we last saw each other," she said warmly.

June smiled back, clearly pleased to see Prim again. "Yeah, it has. How have you been, Prim?"

"Busy, as always," Prim replied with a light laugh.

Prim excused herself with a wave, turning to head back towards her friend who was ordering by the entrance. "I should leave you two alone." she said with a knowing smile at Sky and June. "But it was good seeing you, June. I'll see you around."

June nodded and gave Prim a friendly wave as June walked away.

Sky's eyes followed Prim as she walked away, and locked onto Nani's, who was already staring in his direction. There was a moment of silent tension between them, a shared glance that spoke volumes—frustration, hurt, and unspoken words all rolled into one. Sky looked away first, breaking the connection, the ache remained in Sky's chest.

June notice Sky expression asked " Sky, what's wrong?"

Sky forced a smile, "I'm fine," he replied, his voice slightly shaky. He looked at June, but his gaze was distant, lost somewhere beyond her. "Just... a lot on my mind, I guess."

June watched him carefully, sensing there was more beneath the surface. She lowering her voice. " If you want to talk, I am here."

Sky gave a small, appreciative nod as June reached out to touch his hand.

Sky change the topic since he doesn't want June to get affect by his feeling.

But everything is under Nani eyes, Nani's sharp eyes followed the gentle touch of June's hand on Sky's. He couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy mixed with frustration. It wasn't just about June—Nani was irritated at himself for being unable to keep his emotions in check.

Groya observed Nani's expression carefully, her mind quickly piecing together a plan. She could see the internal struggle on his face—conflicted emotions between jealousy and fear of losing Sky. A plan began to form in her mind.

She didn't say anything outright, letting Nani stew in his jealousy for a moment. Then, with a slight smile, she casually brought up an idea that would likely unsettle Nani further. "Maybe we should invite Sky and his friend to join us," she suggested, her tone light and casual, but with a hint of challenge. "The more, the merrier, right?"

Everyone agree, only Nani remained silent, his expression darkening as he looked away, trying to hide his unease.

The idea of Sky sharing attention to other people beside him made Nani uncomfortable, and he couldn't help but feel possessive.

After order everything, Bright Win and Dew settle in other table on the other side of the shop. Groya grad Prim hand and walk toward Sky and June.

"Sky, why don't you join us?" Groya asked with a friendly smile.

"Um, I don't think that's a good ide—" Sky started, but Groya suddenly reached for his plate of ramen, still half-finished, and walked away toward the table where Nani and the others sat.

Prim's eyes widened at Groya' s bold move. With little choice left, she turned to June, offering a gentle smile. "Shall we?" she said, gesturing toward the table.

June hesitated briefly but nodded, allowing Prim to guide her to the table.

Sky let out a deep breath, his chest tightening as he watched the scene unfold. Finally, he followed them.

When Sky arrived at the table, Win, who had been sitting next to Nani, immediately got up. With a mischievous grin, he patted Sky on the shoulder. "Here, Sky, you sit here," he said, motioning to the spot beside Nani.

Sky blinked, feeling the weight of everyone's eyes on him. Hesitant, he slid into the seat beside Nani, whose gaze was fixed on him with an intensity that made his heart race.

Nani shifted slightly in his seat, his hand brushing against Sky's.

Across the table, Groya and Prim exchanged amused glances, their smiles knowing.

"So," Win began, "how's your schedule lately, Sky? Been busy?"

Sky nodded, trying to focus on his ramen and not the way Nani's presence made his pulse quicken. "Yeah, a lot of shoots recently, P. But I guess I survived." Sky forces a laugh.

Dew shrugged "Nothing too crazy for a full energy guy like you, Sky. But I've been waiting for you to have some free time. Haven't seen you lately."

Sky looked up at Dew, "Sorry about that, P'Dew. It's been hectic, but I'll make it up to you. Promise."

Dew gave him a small smile, the kind that showed he understood. "No worries, Sky. Just don't forget about us little people, big star."

As Sky chuckled lightly, Nani caught himself glaring at Sky. He didn't know why, but even the small sound of Sky's laughter—the carefree kind that lit up his face—was enough to make him feel oddly at ease.

But before Sky could respond, the food arrived. Plates and bowls were set down with practiced precision, the aroma filling the air and drawing everyone's attention.

Bright attention steaming bowl in front of him. "Looks good," he said, picking up his chopsticks.

"Everything looks good when you're starving," Win quipped, earning a round of chuckles from the table.

Dew, ever observant, leaned slightly toward Nani and murmured, "You're staring too much."

Nani snapped his gaze away, his expression hardening. "Am not," he muttered, but the faint pink in his ears gave him away.

Dew smirked, clearly amused but choosing not to push further.

As everyone dug into their food, the chatter grew lively again. Groya and Bright were engaged in a playful argument over who had ordered the better dish, while Prim and June shared quiet laughter over a silly inside joke.

Nani, however, found his focus drifting back to Sky. Watching the way he carefully blew on his soup before taking a sip, the way his eyes lit up when he tasted something good—it was infuriating how someone could look so effortlessly charming doing the simplest things.

"You're not eating, Nani?" Groya' s voice broke through his thoughts, and he blinked, realizing he hadn't even touched his plate.

"Huh? Oh, yeah," Nani said quickly. "Just... thinking."

Sky tilted his head slightly, his puppy-like curiosity making Nani's heart stutter.

"About what?" Dew ask with the knowing smrike.

"Nothing important," Nani replied, stuffing a piece of food into his mouth to avoid further questioning.

Win, overhearing, laughed. "Maybe Nani's just shy today. Must be the company."

Nani shot Win a look, but it lacked his usual sharpness. "Shut up, Win."

The table laughed again, but Nani's gaze lingered on Sky for a moment longer.

Across the table, Prim and Groya exchanged another knowing glance.

" Groya, what should we do, they still don't talk to each other." Prim ask when Nani still keep looking at Sky but still doesn't say anything to Sky yet.

" Let me think. " after a moment, Groya whisper something into Prim ear.

Prim's eyes lit up with mischief, and she stifled a giggle. "You're evil," she whispered back.

"Just brilliant," Groya corrected with a grin.

Without wasting time, the two stood up and walked over to the counter, pretending to order more drinks for the group. This time, they discreetly added a couple of alcoholic drink into the mix with other drink that have a strong smell so Nani won't notice.

"Are you sure this will work?" Prim whispered as they waited for the drinks to be prepared.

Groya smirked. "Trust me. Nani's got enough bottled up that one or two drinks will loosen him right up. And Sky? He'll step in without hesitation. He always does when come to Nani."

Prim nodded, her grin growing wider. "Nani's going to hate us later, but it'll be worth it."

When the drinks arrived, Groya handed over one glass with a subtle instruction to the server. "Nong, Could you help us by giving This one goes straight to the guy sitting at the end of the table—Nani."

The server nodded, and the two returned to the table, their faces innocent as ever.

"Drinks are here!" Prim announced brightly, setting the glasses down.

Nani grabbed his drink without hesitation, unaware of the knowing looks exchanged between Groya and Prim.

The table buzzed with conversation, but Sky and Nani remained silent, their interactions limited to brief glances. Sky kept his focus on his food and drink, while Nani sipped his beverage, stealing glances at Sky when he thought no one was looking.

As the minutes ticked by, Nani's demeanor began to shift. His usual sharp comments softened, and he leaned a little closer to Sky, his grin lazy and his eyes more relaxed than usual.

Groya leaned toward Prim, her voice low. "It's happening."

Finally, Nani slumped slightly into Sky's shoulder.

"You know," he mumbled, his words slightly slurred. "you're really something, Sky."

Sky blinked, startled by the sudden attention.

"You," Nani repeated, his voice laced with a mix of frustration and vulnerability. "You're always so quiet, always looking at me like that but never saying anything. If you're upset with me, just tell me directly, okay?"

The entire table went silent, all eyes on Nani and Sky.

Prim gasped, clutching Groya' s arm. "It's working too well," she whispered, though her grin said she was thoroughly entertained.

Groya smirked. "Told you."

Sky, flustered and unsure of how to respond, glanced around for help. But Bright and Dew just looked amused, while Groya and Prim pretended to be concerned.

"I think he's drunk," Prim said, her tone exaggeratedly worried. "Sky, you should take him home before he causes a scene."

"Wait? But he doesn't drink any alcohol." Sky stammered, looking between Nani and the others.

Dew raised an eyebrow, catching on to the plan but deciding not to interfere. " Maybe he allergic to something in the drink. I think you should get him home first."

Bright added with a teasing grin, "He's your responsibility now."

" What about June?" Sky

" That is okay, Sky. I can go back on my own." June also got curious by everyone action but she decide to remain silent. Sky nod " Don't forget to text me when you reach home."

Sky stood, helping Nani to his feet. "Come on," he muttered, draping Nani's arm over his shoulder.

Nani leaned heavily against Sky, his face close enough that Sky could feel his breath. "You're always so nice to me," Nani murmured, his voice soft. "Why?"

Sky's heart raced, but he didn't respond, focusing instead on steadying Nani as they walked. Behind them, Groya and Prim watched them, exchanging high-fives.

The cool evening air hit them as they stepped outside, and Sky adjusted his hold on Nani. "Where's your car?"

Nani blinked, his brow furrowing in thought. "I think... I got dropped off. Or maybe I flew here," he slurred, a lazy grin spreading across his face.

Sky rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress the smile tugging at his lips. " Nani stop playing."

Nani pout after he heard what Sky said to him. Nani took off his car key and hand to Sky. As Sky took the car key, Nani suddenly crying.

Sky's eyes widened as Nani suddenly started crying, tears streaming down his face without warning.

"Nani! What's wrong?" Sky asked, his voice full of concern. He crouched in front of Nani, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Why are you crying?"

Nani sniffled, rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand. "You're mean, Sky," he mumbled, his voice thick with emotion.

Sky blinked, confused. "Mean?"

"You told me to stop playing," Nani wailed, his pout deepening. "You're supposed to laugh at my jokes, not tell me to stop!"

Sky let out a soft laugh, shaking his head. "I didn't mean it like that. I just... I thought maybe you were being serious for once."

Nani slumped forward, resting his forehead against Sky's shoulder. "I'm sorry," he mumbled, his voice muffled. "I'm such a mess."

Under the influence of alcohol, Nani became more courageous and let his true thoughts flow freely without holding back.

Sky hesitated before wrapping an arm around Nani, holding him steady. Sky couldn't deny that even he is in the state of want to move on, but his heart still want to keep Nani close only to himself, his heart still refused to let Nani go.

From the start, Sky want to break the wall that Nani has built, he made a strong determined that he will not back down no matter what. But look at him now, just seeing Nani flirt with someone else was enough to leave his chest aching.

Nani looked up, noticing Sky's silence. without Sky realize, Nani gently cupped Sky's  face with trembling hands. Straightening himself from where he leaned on Sky's shoulder, he lifted just enough to close the gap. and pressed his lips to Sky's, letting every unspoken emotion flow through the kiss.

Sky's eyes widened in shock at Nani's sudden action, but slowly, he began to respond to the kiss.

The world seemed to fall away, the air growing still and cold as the two of them shared a gentle, heartfelt kiss, lost in each other.

As their lips lingered, the tension between them melted away, replaced by a warmth neither of them could ignore. Sky's hands found their way to Nani's waist, hesitant yet yearning, as if afraid to let him go.

Sky pulled back slightly, his eyes shimmering with a mix of fear and unshed tears. Nani raised his hand, gently wiping the tear that slipped down Sky's face.

There it was again—that heavy ache in his chest. Seeing Sky cry struck something deep in him.  a pain he couldn't shake.

Seeing Sky cry made Nani snap a little more out of his drunken haze.

"Why are you crying? You don't like it when I kiss you?" Nani asked, his voice softening.

Sky shook his head like a worried puppy, trying to clear his tears. "It's not like that."

"Then stop crying," Nani said, gently brushing away Sky's tears with his thumb before pressing a soft kiss on the cheek where the tears kept falling.

Nani looked at Sky with a mixture of tenderness and concern. "I hate seeing you like this," he admitted softly, his voice breaking with emotion. "Especially because of me." He pressed another soft kiss to Sky's cheek, as if trying to make up for everything he had done that hurt Sky.

Dear reader, I want to slap myself for making Sky cry.