Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Bangkok, 27 years ago.

The heat pressed down on the campus courtyard, cicadas buzzing in the late afternoon. Lingling Kwong and Aom Sushar sat side by side on the cracked concrete steps outside the old library, each clutching half-melted ice cream cones. Their uniforms were wrinkled, their hair sticky from the long day, but both were laughing like they hadn’t been through hell together just weeks ago.

“Can you believe we actually graduated?” Aom sighed, leaning her head on Lingling’s shoulder. “I thought that last exam was going to kill me.”

Lingling smirked, her dark eyes sharp but softening at her best friend’s voice. “We didn’t just survive, Aom. We owned it. No one thought we’d make it through all that mess, but here we are.”

“All that mess” was an understatement. They had fought through part-time jobs, strict professors, family expectations, and heartbreaks that left them both scarred. Yet they’d carried each other through.

Aom nudged Lingling with her elbow. “Promise me something.”

Lingling raised an eyebrow. “What now?”

“That we’ll never lose each other. No matter what happens in the future… even if we marry, even if we move across the world, we’ll always be family.”

Lingling chuckled. “You’re getting sentimental. Must be the heat.”

“I’m serious!” Aom puffed her cheeks. “Let’s make a deal. One day, our families will be connected. In-laws, Ling. No matter what.”

Lingling tilted her head, considering. “And what if one of us breaks it?”

Aom grinned mischievously. “Then… fifty million baht. Straight to the other.”

Lingling barked a laugh, nearly dropping her ice cream. “Fifty million?! Are you trying to bankrupt me?”

“Chai, fifty million,” Aom insisted, her eyes gleaming. “That way we’ll never dare break it.”

Lingling stared at her for a moment, then stuck out her pinky. “Fine. But remember this, Aom. You’re the one who suggested it.”

They hooked pinkies, sealing the ridiculous, impossible promise with the certainty only youth could carry.

Neither of them knew how deeply those words would shape the decades to come.

Present Day, The Phone Call

The late afternoon sun slanted across the Kwon mansion’s veranda in Bangkok. Lingling sat in her wicker chair, sipping iced tea, when her private phone buzzed. Only one person ever called this number.

“Aom,” she answered, her lips curving.

On the other side of the world, Aom’s laugh filtered through. “Lingling, it’s been too long.”

“Too long? You just called last week,” Lingling teased.

“This time it’s different,” Aom said. Her tone shifted, carrying both excitement and mischief. “We’re moving back to Thailand. Tina and I… we decided it’s time.”

Lingling sat up straighter. “Back? After all these years?”

“Yes. And do you remember our promise?”

Lingling laughed, a warm, throaty sound. “You’re still clinging to that childish bet? Fifty million baht, was it?”

“You agreed,” Aom pressed. “And I intend to collect. My daughter will need a wife.”

Lingling smirked. “If my daughters loved boys, maybe you’d have a chance at your money. But I’ve been blessed. All four of my girls? Girls’ lovers.”

“No.” Aom gasped, half in disbelief, half in delight.

“Yes.” Lingling’s chest swelled with pride. “When my youngest told me she liked a girl, I nearly threw a party. Orm said I was ridiculous, and the older three just rolled their eyes.”

On the other end, Aom laughed until she was breathless. “Lingling, this is fate! My Love won’t have to deal with any sons of a bitch. She can choose freely.”

Lingling’s tone softened. “And you want her to choose from my daughters.”

“Exactly.” Aom’s voice grew eager. “But don’t just hand them over. Let Love decide. Let her live among them, get to know them. The choice will be hers.”

Lingling tapped her fingers against the glass table, considering. “I can arrange that. I have an old house—Emi’s place—that’s perfect for them. But Aom… you know data and photos won’t help your daughter choose. Personality is everything.”

“That’s why she’ll live with them,” Aom replied. “Trust me. This is the best way.”

Lingling’s lips curved into a knowing smile. “Fine. I’ll prepare my daughters. But don’t say I didn’t warn you—they’re stubborn.”

“Stubborn girls are the best,” Aom said. “We’ll see which one can capture Love’s heart.”

They ended the call, both women laughing like the young girls they once were.

The Kwon Household

The Kwon mansion buzzed with unusual activity that evening. Orm, Lingling’s wife, nearly glowed with happiness as she prepared the dining table. “Finally, the girls will all be home,” she said, arranging dishes of tom yum goong, pad kra pao, and som tam.

By six o’clock, the family started trickling in.

Milk arrived first, punctual and brisk as always. She swept into the dining room in a tailored blouse, her laptop bag slung over her shoulder. “Mae, what’s the emergency?” she asked immediately, her sharp eyes scanning the room.

Orm laughed softly. “Always straight to the point, this one.”

Half an hour later, Emi showed up, her calm presence smoothing the air like balm. She kissed her mother’s cheek and sat quietly, helping Orm arrange the glasses without a word.

View, the youngest, bounced in not long after, still in her university uniform. “Mae, I’m starving!” she whined, plopping into a chair.

And finally, as always, Namtan swept in last, carrying the easy confidence of the eldest. “I’m here, I’m here. Don’t look at me like that, Milk.”

Milk rolled her eyes. “You’re always late.”

Namtan chuckled. “And you’re always uptight.”

“Girls,” Lingling’s voice cut through the chatter as she entered the room. Her gaze was firm, commanding. “Eat first. Talk later.”

Milk opened her mouth to protest—she had plans, deadlines—but the steely look in her mother’s eyes made her swallow her words. She sighed, resigning herself to a long evening.

Dinner was a mixture of laughter, teasing, and familiar arguments. Namtan teased View about still living like a baby, Emi tried to keep the peace, and Milk complained about having too much work. Orm watched them all with shining eyes, her heart full.

When the plates were cleared, Lingling rose. “To my office. All of you.”

The four daughters exchanged wary looks.

Inside the home office, Lingling sat behind her desk, her expression grave. “You will all move into Emi’s house. Together.”

“What?!” Milk shot up immediately. “I already have an apartment. I live alone for a reason.”

Lingling’s gaze turned sharp. “You’ll move. All of you.”

Milk looked to her sisters for support, but Namtan only shrugged, Emi nodded quietly, and View clapped her hands. “Yay! Like a big sleepover.”

“Unbelievable,” Milk muttered. “None of you will back me up?”

Namtan smirked. “Sorry, Nong Milk. Mae’s orders.”

Frustrated, Milk punched Namtan’s shoulder.

“Yah! Why me?” Namtan yelped, rubbing her arm.

“Because you were closest,” Milk shot back.

The two twins glared, then burst into laughter. Emi sighed, and View giggled, the tension easing.

Still, Lingling’s words lingered, unyielding. “Do this for me. My time isn’t forever. If something happens to me, I want to know you’ll all still be connected.”

“Mae,” Emi said softly, “you’re healthy. We saw the check-up results.”

Lingling’s jaw tightened. She couldn’t tell them the truth—not yet. So she slapped her palm on the desk, making them all jump. “No more arguments. It’s decided.”

The daughters exchanged reluctant glances. The move was happening, whether they liked it or not.

Meanwhile, in America (Aom and Family are back and forth from europe to america)

In a sunlit Los Angeles living room, Aom stood with her arms crossed, watching her two daughters lounge on the couch.

“Love, Mewnich,” she began. “We’re moving back to Thailand.”

“What?!” Love sat up, her long hair tumbling over her shoulders. “Mae, you can’t just—”

“No excuses,” Aom interrupted. “It’s time to return to our roots. And Love…” Her eyes softened. “You’ll need to choose a wife.”

Mewnich nearly choked on her soda. “Mae!”

Love’s jaw dropped. “What are you talking about?”

Aom strode forward, dropping four folders onto the coffee table. Each bore a name: Namtan. Milk. Emi. View.

“These are the daughters of Lingling Kwon. My dearest friend. You’ll live with them, get to know them, and choose.”

Love opened her mouth to argue, but something in her mother’s steady gaze silenced her.

“Look first,” Aom urged. “Then decide.”

Mewnich leaned over, flipping through the photos. “Not bad,” she muttered. “Honestly, Love, you’ve got nothing to lose.”

Love sighed, picking up one folder reluctantly.

The Photo

The photos were simple: portraits, candid shots, glimpses of personality caught on film.

Namtan looked composed, elegant, the epitome of an eldest daughter. Emi radiated calm, a gentle smile soft on her face. View beamed in her university uniform, full of youthful energy.

And then there was Milk.

Love paused.

In her photo, Milk’s eyes disappeared when she smiled, the corners crinkling with warmth. There was something unguarded about her grin, something bright and loyal, like the aura of a Samoyed dog—pure and impossibly earnest.

For a moment, Love couldn’t look away.

“Which one?” Mewnich teased, watching her sister’s lingering gaze.

Love snapped the folder shut. “None. Not yet.”

But her heart skipped a quiet beat, betraying her.

Chapter Text

It was early in the morning on moving day. The sun was just rising, warm light spilling across the wide white walls of the mansion. The house was old but still beautiful, a mix of modern lines and old family touches.

The sound of a car stopping outside broke the silence.

The front door swung open without a knock.

Milk stepped in first. She always did things like this—bold and direct, like she owned the world. Her laptop bag hung from her shoulder, her hair still a little messy from rushing out.

Emi, who was sweeping the hallway, froze. She blinked at her sister, not surprised but still shocked at the way Milk barged in.

“Phi! At least knock first,” Emi said.

“I’m taking the master bedroom,” Milk announced flatly, like she had already decided yesterday.

Emi dropped the broom and threw her hands in the air. “No hi? No hello? No ‘how are you’? Phi, seriously?”

Milk didn’t answer. She was already walking upstairs, her steps echoing against the wooden floor. Emi stomped after her.

“Phi! Are you really not going to talk to me first?” Emi shouted.

Milk pushed open the biggest room’s door, set her bag on the desk, and pulled out her laptop. She didn’t even look at Emi as she opened the screen.

“I’m busy, Nong. Maybe later. I need to finish this first,” Milk said, typing fast.

Emi crossed her arms, pouting. “You’re always busy. You’ll marry your laptop one day.”

Milk ignored her, eyes fixed on the screen.

Emi sighed loudly, shaking her head. “Fine. Work, work, work. I’ll just finish cleaning.”

She left the room, muttering under her breath, “Why do I even bother?”

The house grew quiet again. Too quiet. Emi leaned on the railing, looking around.

This had always been her favorite home. Two floors. Eight rooms. Each room with its own bathroom and walk-in closet. An indoor pool. A mini bar beside the open kitchen. Way too big for just her. Sometimes the silence scared her, but she couldn’t bear to sell it. This was where they had all grown up.

She had asked their parents to let her keep it. And because they were softhearted, they agreed.

Still, taking care of the place alone wasn’t easy. Emi sometimes hired a day cleaner, and she could cook when needed—but mostly, she ate out. That would change soon. With her sisters moving back, and two more people joining, the house would finally feel alive again.

She didn’t mind. She actually wanted the chaos.

---

An hour later, the front gate opened again.

“First dibs on the master bedroom!” Namtan shouted the moment she entered, suitcase dragging behind her.

Emi burst out laughing. “Too late, Phi. Milk already claimed it.”

“What!” Namtan spun to glare at her twin, who was still outside taking off her shoes. “See? It’s your fault we’re late.”

View threw her hands up. “I was ready in time! You’re the one who made me wait twenty minutes.”

“Whatever, Nong,” Namtan muttered, dragging her bag inside. Then she asked, “Where is Milk anyway? Shouldn’t she be here welcoming us?”

“Busy. As usual.” Emi shrugged. “Working upstairs.”

Namtan rolled her eyes. “All she ever does is work. Does she even know how to date?”

Emi snorted. “I bet she hasn’t even kissed anyone. Or touched a girl’s body.”

“Hahaha!” Namtan burst out laughing. “That sounds so wrong.”

“Wah, why are you talking about kissing and touching bodies in front of me?” View groaned dramatically, covering her ears. “My innocent soul! But fine, I’ll take that bet. I think Phi Milk is secretly dating someone. Ten thousand baht.”

Namtan leaned closer. “How will we know?”

“Easy. We ask her.”

“Ask who?”

The three sisters froze. Milk was standing by the stairs, arms crossed, smirk on her lips.

“P-Phi!” Emi stammered.

Namtan looked ready to make an excuse, but View piped up, “We were just… uh… talking about your love life, Phi.”

Milk tilted her head. “Then ask my girlfriend. Her name’s Film.” She smiled, small but sharp. “And don’t ever enter my room.”

She walked out the front door, leaving them stunned.

“G-girlfriend?” Emi whispered.

“Who’s Film?” View asked.

Namtan tapped her chin. “Maybe that’s Granny Racha’s granddaughter? I heard her name is Film. She studies in Chiang Mai.”

“Oh, I remember!” View nodded. “Mom always took us to Granny Racha’s restaurant. But I never saw her granddaughter.”

“Same.” Namtan frowned.

Then View gasped. “Wait. Where’s Phi Emi?”

They turned, only to find Emi sneaking into her room, closing the door behind her.

“Yah! Phi Emi, I won the bet! Pay up!” View shouted.

Namtan laughed so hard she nearly dropped her bag.

Meanwhile, across town at Limpatiyakorn Hotel…

Knock. Knock.

“Phi, it’s already ten! Get up!” Mewnich banged on the door of her sister’s room.

Inside, the room looked like a storm had passed through. Clothes everywhere. Makeup scattered.

“Phi! Did we get robbed? I’ll call security!” Mewnich shouted.

“Stop screaming,” Love groaned from under the blankets. She grabbed a pillow and threw it at her little sister.

Mewnich giggled. “Come on, Phi. We promised Emi yesterday that we’d be there before noon.”

“Still early. I didn’t even have my matcha yet.”

“You and your matcha.” Mewnich rolled her eyes but tugged at her sister’s blanket anyway.

By noon, both finally arrived at the mansion. Emi greeted them at the door.

Before introductions could even start, View rushed forward.

“Whoa! It’s really you! Love Limpatiyakorn!” she squealed. “I’m View Kwong, your biggest fan!”

Emi teased, “Biggest and loudest.”

“Shut up,” View pouted. Then she turned back to Love with sparkling eyes. “Phi, I have so many of your magazines. Can I have your autograph?”

Love blinked, smiling awkwardly.

“Sorry about my sister,” Emi said quickly. “She’s… weird. I’m Emi.”

“Love. And this is my sister, Mewnich,” Love introduced politely.

View grabbed Love’s hand before she could finish. “Phi Love, can I court you? You’re totally my type.”

“Eh?!” Love’s eyes widened.

Mewnich burst into laughter.

“Sorry, Nong, but I’ll be Nong Love’s partner,” Namtan declared, sliding in with a smug smile. “I’m Namtan.”

Love and Mewnich exchanged a look. Partner? Did Auntie Kwon already tell them about the arrangement? They thought it was supposed to be a secret.

“No way, Phi Nam!” View protested. “I won’t let you steal her from me!”

“Well, baby View, I already signed the contract. I’ll be in magazine shoots with Nong Love next month.”

Love forced a smile, unsure what to say. Mewnich just giggled again.

“You’re making Phi Love uncomfortable, Phi Nam,” View whined.

“Stop whining, Nong,” Emi whispered to her youngest sister. “Girls don’t dig that.”

View froze, face red, and crossed her arms stubbornly.

The teasing continued until the front door opened again.

Bang! Slam!

Love jumped. Mewnich flinched.

But the Kwong sisters didn’t even blink.

Milk stood there, glaring. She nearly cursed, but her eyes landed on someone.

Love.

Big round eyes. Soft features. The same face she once…

Milk’s breath hitched. For a second, her usual cold expression cracked.

“Phi Milk!” View hurried over. “This is Mewnich. And this—this is my future girlfriend, Phi Love! They’re Mom’s best friend’s daughters. Phi Love, Mewnich—this is my Phi Milk, Phi Namtan’s twin.”

Milk gave a stiff nod. “Welcome.” Then she disappeared into her room without another word.

Love blinked after her. That was Milk? She remembered seeing her photos before but not this grumpy, distant version. The girl she just saw… wasn’t the same.

Inside her room, Milk pulled out a box from her luggage.

She opened an old magazine. Pages flipped until she found the one she wanted.

There.

A younger Love smiled from the glossy paper, hair tied back, eyes bright. A faint heart had been drawn on the page.

Milk traced the face with her finger.

“I never thought I’d see you again,” she whispered.

But then she shut the magazine and shoved it back into the box.

Because no matter what her heart felt before, she already had someone.

And her name was Film.

Chapter Text

Glimpse of the Past: How Milk Met Love

It was during college days.

Milk’s professor dismissed class earlier than usual. She didn’t like going out much, so instead of hanging around, she went straight home. While walking through the quiet house, she thought about showing her mom the design she made for one of her architecture classes. Her mom always gave the sharpest critiques.

She stopped when she reached the hallway. The door to her mom’s home office was slightly open. Voices slipped out.

“Oh, I got your magazine,” her mom was saying. “Nice—your daughter looks just like you. What?! She’s here? And she has a fever? You’re not accompanying her? Which hospital? Yes, yes, I’m coming.”

Milk froze. What’s going on?

Before she could push the door, it swung open. Her mom stood there, surprised only for a second, then quickly grabbed her hand.

“Good, you’re here. You need to help me,” her mom said.

Milk didn’t argue. She had nothing better to do anyway, so she let herself be dragged out. It was clear they were heading for the hospital.

At the nursing station, her mom asked, “Where’s Love Pattranite?”

They were guided to a bed in the emergency room. A girl lay there, pale but beautiful.

“You stay with her,” her mom told Milk.

Milk nodded and stepped closer. She looked at the girl’s face, and for a moment, she couldn’t breathe. Something stirred in her chest. She had never felt this way before.

She reached out carefully to check the girl’s forehead. Suddenly, the girl’s hand shot up and held hers.

“Who are you, beautiful phi?” the girl asked softly. Her voice was sweet, almost musical, making Milk’s heart skip a beat.

What the hell is happening to me? Milk thought.

Before she could answer, the girl loosened her grip and fell back asleep.

Milk sat down in the chair beside her, unable to look away. She thought about pulling out her phone but realized she had left it at home, inside her bag.

Ten minutes later, her mom returned.

“You should go home now,” her mom said gently, worried about her.

“What about her?” Milk asked.

“I’ll take care of everything.”

Milk hesitated but eventually nodded. She went home, drained of energy. The house was dark when she arrived. She went straight to her room, took a bath, and collapsed into sleep.

The next morning, Milk hurried to her mom’s office. Her mom was already in front of her laptop, working.

“Mom, how’s the girl?” Milk asked.

Her mom reached out and tapped her head. “She went back home. Her parents hired SkyCare to move her back.”

“SkyCare? Isn’t that a little extreme?” Milk asked

“No, baby,” her mom replied, smiling faintly. “That girl lives in Europe. Her mother is a worrywart, so she asked me to arrange it.”

Her Mom phone rang then, pulling her attention away from milk.

“Europe…” Milk whispered to herself.

Her eyes wandered around the office and landed on a magazine with the girl’s face on the cover. She quickly picked it up, clutching it close, and left for her room without another word.

How Milk Met Film

It was last year, when Milk had a project in Phuket. One of her clients asked her to meet for breakfast at a café near her hotel.

The place was cozy, full of warm light and the smell of fresh coffee. While waiting, Milk noticed a girl at the next table. She had a bright smile, the kind that made people pause without realizing it. Milk found herself staring a little too long.

She quickly shook her head and tried to look away, embarrassed. But it was too late—the girl had caught her.

The girl giggled, grabbed a napkin, and started writing something on it. Milk pretended to look at the menu, but the truth was she couldn’t ignore the girl. There was something about her aura that made people pay attention.

The girl stood up, walked straight to Milk’s table, and placed the napkin in front of her.

“Here. Call me, phi,” she said with a wink, then turned and walked out of the café.

Milk blinked, unsure what had just happened. She looked down at the napkin. A name and a number.

Film. 02-xxxxxxxx

That night, back in her hotel room, Milk couldn’t stop thinking about the smile. Finally, she saved the number in her phone and sent a simple text:

Milk: Hi, this is Milk.

The reply came quickly.

Film: Took you long enough.

From then on, they started talking every day. Within a month, Milk and Film were officially dating.

But after two months, Milk’s project ended. She had to return to Bangkok.

And that was the start of their long-distance story.

Back to the Present

Time passed, and everyone in the house slowly grew close to each other.

Well—everyone except Milk.

She was almost never around. If she wasn’t out for work, she was shut away in her room, busy typing or sketching. The others would laugh in the living room, cook together, or binge shows late at night, but Milk was more like a guest than a housemate.

Love and Mewnich often overheard the three sisters grumbling about her.

“Milk only knows work,” Emi would complain.

“She doesn’t even eat with us,” Namtan added.

“And that Film person? I still think she’s just her imagination,” View teased, rolling her eyes.

Love only chuckled whenever she heard it, though a small part of her wondered too.

But Love soon had her own problem to deal with.

It started with View. The youngest sister had already confessed to her, bold and straightforward. Love had been flustered then, unsure how to respond.

Not long after, Emi began showing signs too—small gestures, lingering stares, the way she’d always make excuses to sit next to her.

Then came Namtan, the eldest. Calm and composed on the outside, but her words one night had left Love frozen.

“I like you too,” she had said simply.

Love stared at the three of them now, feeling her chest tighten.

“This is… too much,” she muttered under her breath.

Mewnich only laughed, enjoying the drama. “My sister, the goddess of the house. Three women chasing you? You should be honored.”

Love sighed, rubbing her temples. “Honored? It’s going to be a mess. Three sisters liking the same girl? How am I supposed to choose?”

But the 3 sisters didn’t look worried at all.

Instead, they stood in the living room, smiling at each other. Then, without hesitation, they shook hands.

“May the best woman win,” Namtan said with a grin.

“Game on,” Emi replied.

“Already ahead,” View teased.

Love groaned, burying her face in her hands. This house was going to be more chaotic than ever.

Late at Night

The house was quiet. Everyone had already gone to bed.

Emi, View, and Namtan each had their own rooms downstairs. Mewnich had claimed the first room near the stairs, while Love had chosen one close to the master bedroom. She liked that spot because it gave her easy access to the balcony—a place she often escaped to when the house felt too lively.

That night, unable to sleep, Love walk slowly to the balcony door. She reached for the handle, but paused when she heard a voice through the faint night air.

It was Milk.

“But nong, I have to go to the meeting tomorrow,” Milk’s voice came out low, tired but almost… whiny. Love tilted her head. She had never heard Milk sound like that before. Honestly, it was kind of adorable.

Love leaned closer, curious. She couldn’t hear the other person on the line, only Milk’s responses.

“Please, nong, don’t do this… I promise I’ll go there by next week. Yes, yes, yes. I don’t want to argue with you.”

There was a long silence. Love held her breath without realizing it.

Then Milk’s voice again, softer this time. “No, of course not. I’m not cheating on you… I promise, I promise. I love you, nong.”

Love froze. The words hit her harder than she expected.

Silence followed.

Finally, Milk sighed, her tone heavy. “...She didn’t say ‘I love you’ back.”

Love’s hand slipped from the balcony door handle. She backed away quietly, her chest strangely tight. For the first time, she caught a glimpse of Milk not as the work-obsessed, distant housemate everyone complained about—but as someone who carried her own battles, quietly, behind closed doors.

Another month passed.

Love had just come home from a long photoshoot. She parked her car, grabbed her bag, and was about to head inside when she froze.

Someone was lying on the driveway.

“...Milk?” Love hurried over, panic flashing through her. The closer she got, the stronger the smell of alcohol hit her. Milk was sprawled out, completely out of it.

“What happened to you?” Love muttered, kneeling down.

She quickly pulled out her phone and called for Mewnich. “Come outside, now. Help me.”

When her sister arrived, the two of them carefully carried Milk inside, half-dragging, half-lifting until they got her onto the living room sofa. Milk mumbled incoherently, her head lolling.

“Get some water and medicine,” Love told Mewnich. “She’s going to need it when she wakes up.”

Mewnich nodded and left for the kitchen. Love stayed behind, sighing as she looked at the woman stretched out before her. Milk always seemed untouchable, but right now she looked fragile. Human.

Then Love’s eyes widened.

Milk was awake—staring straight at her.

Before she could say a word, warm lips pressed against hers.

Love gasped and shoved her back, shock flashing into anger. The sound of her hand slapping Milk’s cheek echoed in the room.

But Milk’s eyes had already closed again, a faint, drunken smile curling her lips.

“Film… I miss you,” she murmured.

Love stood frozen for a second, her heartbeat pounding in her ears. Then she stomped away, leaving Milk behind.

Inside her room, she leaned against the door, touching her lips with trembling fingers.

“My first kiss…” she whispered. Her hand clenched into a fist, anger rushing through her. “I should have slapped her more.”

She threw herself on the bed, face burning with fury and confusion.

And that was how the night ended.

Chapter Text

It was already late morning when Milk finally opened her eyes. Her head felt like it was splitting in two.

“Ugh… what happened last night…” she mumbled, squinting at the ceiling.

She looked around and realized she was lying on the couch in the living room, a thin blanket thrown over her. On the coffee table sat a glass of water and some medicine. Without thinking twice, she grabbed them and gulped them down.

A few seconds later, footsteps came from the kitchen.

“Oh, you’re awake,” Mewnich said with a small smile. She placed a plate of breakfast in front of Milk. “Eat this, phi. I don’t know what you did last night, but food will help you feel better.”

Milk managed a weak smile. “Thanks…”

As she lifted a spoonful of rice, she winced. “Ow… why does my cheek hurt?” she whispered to herself, touching the sore spot.

Did I fall? Did I roll on the floor? she thought, confused.

Before she could ask, Mewnich was already heading upstairs. “Rest well!” she called without turning back.

Milk stared at her retreating figure, suspicion growing. “Wait… why does this feel like someone slapped me last night…” she muttered, pouting as she poked at her breakfast.

Love woke up still boiling with anger. The memory of last night came rushing back — the kiss. Her first kiss.
And then the bitter truth followed: Milk already had a girlfriend.

“Great,” she muttered to herself, staring at the ceiling. “I became a cheater without even knowing it…”

The thought made her stomach twist. Never in her life had she imagined something like this happening.

When she finally went downstairs, she silently wished Milk had already left. But luck was not on her side.

There she was — Milk — sitting at the dining table, quietly eating breakfast with her three sisters.

“Good morning, Love!” Emi, View, and Namtan greeted cheerfully.

Milk looked up too and was about to give a small nod to acknowledge her, but Love’s cold glare stopped her. Without a single word, Love marched to the fridge, grabbed a bottle of water, snatched a sandwich from the counter, and turned around to head back upstairs.

“...What did I do?” Milk asked in confusion, looking at her sisters.

The three of them burst into laughter.

“Oh, Milk,” Emi said between giggles, “we’ve just fallen even more in love with her.”

“Fallen more?” Milk blinked, completely lost. “Wait, what’s going on?”

“We’re courting her, obviously,” View said proudly.

“All three of us,” Namtan added with a grin.

Milk froze, still rubbing her sore cheek. Honestly, she wasn’t even surprised. If she was being honest with herself, there was a time — a long time ago — when she’d had a crush on Love too.

Her thoughts were suddenly interrupted by View’s loud voice.

“That was my sandwich!” then pout

Milk watched Love disappear up the stairs with the sandwich in hand, and despite the sting on her cheek, a small smile formed on her lips.

Meanwhile, the new school year had just started on campus.

Mewnich, still new to the place, asked View to show her around.

“Of course! I’m happy to guide you,” View said with a big smile. Deep down, she was thinking, This will definitely earn me more points with Love.

“I’ll introduce you to my two best friends too,” she added proudly.

When they arrived at the campus gates, View spotted her friends right away. She waved excitedly, almost jumping in place.

“Over here!” she shouted.

Mewnich followed behind, but her steps slowed when she noticed one of the girls — the one with her back turned — looked strangely familiar.

As they got closer, View started the introductions. “This is Mim,” she said cheerfully.

Mim smiled politely. “Nice to meet you.”

“And this is—”

Before View could finish, Mewnich’s expression changed. Without warning, she stepped forward and slapped the second girl across the face.

Everyone froze.

“Mewnich! What the fuck?!” View shouted, eyes wide.

But Mewnich didn’t answer. She just turned on her heel and walked away quickly.

“Wait! Mewnich!” View ran after her, panic in her voice.

Meanwhile, June — the girl who just got slapped — stood completely still, a dreamy, lovesick smile spreading across her face.

Mim stared at her in disbelief. “Are you seriously smiling right now? She hit you.”

June sighed softly, almost glowing. “She still remembers me…”

Mim blinked. “...What kind of drama did I just walk into?”

Back at the mansion, days passed — and every single time Milk saw Love, she was met with the same thing: a cold, sharp glare.

Milk still had no idea what she’d done wrong. It bothered her a little, but she had bigger problems to deal with.

One evening, Love was relaxing in her room when she heard a knock on the door.

She opened it to find Namtan standing there, smiling shyly.

“What’s up?” Love asked.

“Can we go on a date tomorrow?” Namtan asked, hands behind her back.

“Tomorrow? I already have plans with my best friend,” Love replied. “But we can go the day after tomorrow.”

Namtan’s face lit up. “Really? Okay! I’ll look forward to it!” she said happily before skipping away.

Twenty minutes later, another knock.

This time it was Emi. “Love… do you want to go on a date tomorrow?”

“I already have plans tomorrow,” Love said. “And the day after tomorrow, I’m going out with Namtan.”

“Then… can we go the day after that?” Emi asked with hopeful eyes.

Love sighed. She didn’t have the heart to say no. “Sure…”

Thirty minutes later — another knock.

“Please don’t tell me…” Love groaned as she opened the door.

It was View.

“Can we have a date?” View asked. But the moment she learned her sisters had beaten her to it, she quickly said, “Fine. Four days from now.”

Now Love had four dates lined up — one with her best friend and three with the sisters. Just thinking about it gave her a headache.

She decided to go to the balcony for some fresh air. But the moment she stepped out, her mood soured — Milk was there, sitting alone on a chair, staring sadly at her phone.

Love sighed and was about to turn back inside, but Milk noticed her. She jumped to her feet and hurried over, grabbing Love’s arm before she could leave.

“Why do you keep glaring at me?” Milk asked, clearly annoyed. “That’s my thing, not yours.”

Love kept her lips sealed. “Let go of me,” she said coldly.

“Seriously, what did I do?” Milk asked, frustration rising. “Why are you acting like I killed your cat? Or like I stole your first kiss or something—”

Love suddenly jerked her arm away and raised her hand, about to slap her. Milk caught it just in time.

The look on Love’s face told her everything.

“Oh… no. No, no, no. That can’t be it,” Milk said, eyes wide. “If I kissed you, I’d remember.”

“You were drunk,” Love hissed. “And you made me a cheater.”

“No… no, no, no…” Milk shook her head like a broken record. “That’s not possible…”

Love took a step back, anger burning in her chest. To her, it looked like Milk was guilty — guilty of cheating on her girlfriend. She turned to leave, but Milk grabbed her arm again.

“I’m sorry, okay?” Milk sighed heavily. “If it makes you feel any better… my girlfriend and I had already broken up at that time.”

Love froze.

“I’m really sorry,” Milk said quietly, letting go of her arm before walking back to her chair.

Love stood there on the balcony, her heart pounding too hard to calm down — unsure if she was angry, relieved, or something in between.

Against her better judgment, Love sat down on one of the empty chairs on the balcony. Milk was still sitting quietly on the other side, staring at the night sky.

“You want to talk about it?” Love asked finally, her voice calm but cold. “But don’t get the wrong idea — it doesn’t mean I forgive you.”

Milk looked at her, eyes tired and heavy. “I’m sorry… again,” she said softly. “Even if I wanted to tell you, I didn’t know how. One day she just texted me and said she fell out of love… and that we should break up.”

She let out a long sigh and, out of nowhere, pulled out a bottle of wine.

Love’s first instinct was to stop her — the memory of drunk Milk kissing her flashed in her head — but then she paused. She could see it clearly now: Milk was hurting. So, she stayed quiet and let her drink.

Milk kept talking, her words becoming looser as the bottle emptied. She talked about the little things, the big memories, the love she once had. Love listened in silence.

And the more she heard, the more a question formed in her mind. If Milk loved her that much… why did she fall out of love?

An hour passed. Love was now half-bored, half-tired — this was definitely the most she’d ever heard Milk talk in one sitting.

She was just about to say goodnight and leave when she noticed Milk swaying slightly, her cheeks flushed.

“Hey… maybe you should stop drinking and—”

Before she could finish, soft lips pressed against hers. Again.

Love’s eyes widened in shock. She shoved Milk away, anger boiling over.

Slap!

Once. Twice. Both cheeks.

“I can’t believe you!” she shouted, standing up and walking toward the door.

Before leaving the balcony, she glanced back one last time. Milk was sitting on the floor now, head hanging low, too drunk to stand.

Love didn’t care. “I hope you have the worst hangover of your life,” she muttered under her breath as she stormed back to her room.

Once again, her night ended with anger — and a few more curses aimed at the woman who wouldn’t leave her thoughts.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Milk woke up with a pounding headache.
“Ugh…” she groaned, pressing the top of her head. But then her hands moved down to her cheeks — and that’s when she froze.

Both cheeks hurt.

Her eyes widened. “No… no, no, no. Don’t tell me I kissed her again…” she whispered, panic creeping into her voice.

Before she could think any further, her phone buzzed. A new message.

She quickly grabbed it and saw the sender: Grandma Racha.

 I’ll throw a party later, an early graduation party for my granddaughter. Be there, dear. Let’s surprise her 😊

Milk smiled without even realizing it. Finally Film.
It had been two months since she last saw her. Two months since that awful breakup text.

“Maybe… maybe Film still hasn’t told Grandma we broke up,” Milk murmured. “Maybe if we talk, we can fix everything…”

With that small hope, she typed a reply:

 I’ll be there, Grandma ❤️

She got up from the couch and stretched. As she did, a soft blanket slipped off her shoulders and fell to the floor. Milk stared at it for a moment and sighed.

“...Love,” she whispered. “I think I owe her another apology.”

........

Flashback — Last Night

Love sat on the edge of her bed, fury bubbling inside her. The slap, the kiss, the whole night she was still shaking with anger.

But then she remembered how Milk had been left on the balcony, drunk and slumped against the sofa

“Tch… she’ll catch a cold,” Love muttered under her breath.

With a reluctant sigh, she pulled a blanket from her closet and stepped into the hallway. Just as she did, she spotted View standing outside Milk’s room, knocking.

“Oh! Hi, Phi Love,” View greeted her cheerfully.

“She’s not inside,” Love said flatly. “She’s sleeping on the balcony.”

“Huh? Why is she there?” View asked, puzzled. Then, suddenly, her eyes widened. She grabbed Love by the shoulders. “Wait, did she kiss you? Or maybe hug you while smiling like an idiot?”

“Of course not,” Love lied quickly. There was no way she was telling View that her first kiss had been stolen  by her drunk older sister.

View sighed in relief. “Oh, good.” Then she giggled. “You should be careful, Phi Love. Phi Milk has this habit, when she’s drunk, she kisses and hugs whoever’s nearby. It’s like her second personality comes out.”

She reached for the blanket in Love’s hands. “I’ll take care of it. I can’t let Phi Milk take advantage of you.”

With that, View walked past her and out to the balcony with the blanket.

Love stood there, frozen. The words echoed in her head.

She does this often? She kisses anyone?

Her anger — already burning flared even hotter.
“She’s unbelievable,” Love muttered, slamming her door shut behind her.

Noon, the same day

Love stepped out of her room just as Milk was coming out of hers.

The moment their eyes met, Milk froze like a statue. Love didn’t say a word she just glared and walked past her without slowing down.

When Love reached the driveway, she noticed Milk heading out too. She shook her head. “Whatever. I don’t care,” she muttered to herself and got into her car.

.......

Love arrived at the mall around 1:45 p.m. — fifteen minutes earlier than the time she and her best friend had planned to meet.

It was 2:15 when Bonnie finally showed up, looking annoyed.

“You’re late,” Love said flatly.

“I know, I’m sorry,” Bonnie huffed. “Some jerk of a girl made me late.”

“What happened?” Love asked as they started walking.

Bonnie threw her hands in the air. “I was buying drinks for us before we went to the restaurant. Then this girl, looked like a fox, and honestly, someone should tell her to buy a real shirt because it only had one button, bumped into me and made me drop everything. And she didn’t even say sorry! She just threw money at me and ran off!”

Love saw how irritated Bonnie was, so she decided to let go of the fact that she’d been minutes late. “Come on, let’s just go to the restaurant.”

......

When they arrived, Bonnie’s mood worsened. The restaurant was closed for a private event.

“Great…” she pouted.

Love was about to suggest they find another place when a familiar voice spoke behind them.

“Oh… are you here to eat?” Milk asked hesitantly, clearly unsure if Love still hated her.

Love turned her head but said nothing. Before she could ignore her, Bonnie spoke up.

“Yeah, but it’s closed. Do you know her?” Bonnie asked, noticing Milk talking directly to Love.

“She’s… staying at our house,” Milk explained quickly.

Bonnie raised an eyebrow and gave Love that look, the one that said you have a lot of explaining to do.

Love rolled her eyes. “Don’t start,” she muttered.

“If you want, I can let you in,” Milk offered. “It’s a surprise party… for my girl, I mean, my friend.”

Love blinked. “Wait… are you getting back together?” she whispered.

“I hope so,” Milk said with a small, hopeful smile.

Love didn’t know how to feel about that. She just nodded silently. Bonnie, however, immediately agreed. “Free food? I’m in.”

“Great!” Milk said and waved them to follow her.

Inside, she spoke to one of the staff, who nodded and led Love and Bonnie to an empty table.

“We just have to wait for the guest of honor to arrive before we can start eating,” Milk explained when she came over.

“That’s fine. We can wait,” Bonnie said with a smile.

Milk waved goodbye with a warm, genuine smile, the kind Love had only ever seen in pictures. Something about it made her chest feel tight, though she quickly brushed the thought aside.

..........

Ten minutes passed. The “guest” they were waiting for still hadn’t arrived.

Bonnie stretched her arms and sighed. “I need to go to the restroom,” she said, standing up.

“I’ll come too,” Love replied, and together they walked away from the table

When Love and Bonnie went to the restroom, the guest of honor finally arrived.

Film stepped into the restaurant, blinking in surprise at the room full of people cheering for her. “Congratulations!” they said one after another.

Her smile faded, though, when she spotted someone she hadn’t expected, Milk.

Milk was walking toward her with a cake in her hands, a gentle smile on her face.

“Congratulations, Nong,” she said softly, holding the cake out.

Film took it from her hands, her expression unreadable. “We need to talk,” she said firmly.

Without another word, she grabbed Milk’s wrist and pulled her away from the crowd.

.........

They ended up inside the restroom, the air heavy with tension.

“What are you doing here?” Film snapped. “I told you, we’re over.”

“You didn’t tell your grandma that we broke up,” Milk said quietly. “She invited me here.”

“I was planning to tell her today,” Film shot back.

“Nong… what did I do wrong? Why are you angry at me? Why did we have to break up?” Milk’s voice cracked as tears welled up in her eyes.

Film sighed, frustration flashing across her face. “You’re suffocating me, Phi. I need space.”

“Space? I thought you liked being close,” Milk said, crying harder now. “When you were in Phuket, you always called me, even during meetings. I even canceled mine just to fly and see you!”

“I thought I liked it,” Film said, her tone colder now. “But it was too much. Too much of you.”

“Then I’ll change,” Milk pleaded. “I won’t suffocate you. I promise. I’ll change.”

“NO!” Film shouted. “I don’t need you to change. I don’t want you to change. I just want you out of my life.”

The words hit Milk like a slap. She stumbled back, her heart pounding painfully.

She reached out for Film’s hand, desperate, but Film pushed her away.

“Just accept it, Phi,” Film said sharply.

Milk wiped her tears with trembling hands. Then, with a shaky nod, she turned and walked out of the restroom, her steps heavy.

A few moments later, Film followed, her expression cold and firm.

.......

Meanwhile, hidden inside one of the stalls, Love and Bonnie stood frozen. They had heard everything.

Bonnie’s eyes were wide, her hand over her mouth.
Love stared silently at the door, her chest tight and confused.

............

Film watched Milk walk out of the restaurant.
For a moment, every part of her wanted to run after her to hold her, to say sorry.
But she stayed still.
She told herself this was the right thing to do.

Instead of going back to the party, she quietly walked toward her grandmother’s office at the back of the restaurant. She didn’t greet anyone, didn’t smile, didn’t even look around. Her chest felt heavy with every step.

When she saw her grandmother sitting at her desk, Film couldn’t hold it in anymore. She ran to her and wrapped her arms around her.

“Yaai…” she whispered, her voice shaking.

“Oh dear, what’s happening?” Grandma Racha asked, worried, as she hugged her back.

“Yaai… Phi Milk and I broke up.”

“What? Why, dear?”

Tears rolled down Film’s cheeks. “I saw it, Yaai. I saw how tired she was while working… and how she still tried to include me. I saw how sad she was when her project didn’t make it because she had to be with me. I became her weakness, not her strength.”

Grandma Racha gently rubbed her back. “But dear… Milk loves you so much.”

“I know, Yaai. I know she does. And I know she would give up everything for me. But I don’t want that. I want her to shine… to grow. But being with me makes her weaker.”

She sniffled and pulled back slightly to look at her grandmother. “You know I want to stay in Phuket for good, open a restaurant there. And if I asked her to come with me, she would. But that would mean abandoning her dream job… the one she truly loves. She lives for designing. She lives for architecture.”

Grandma sighed softly, sadness in her eyes. “Oh my dear… why are you like this?”

Film hugged her tighter, crying quietly. “Just hold me, Yaai… just tell me I’ll be fine.”

“I love you, dear,” Grandma whispered, stroking her hair. “And I hope what you did… is truly the right thing.”

Chapter Text

Love ran out of the restaurant after Milk. She didn’t even think twice, she just followed.

Milk was already heading toward the parking lot when Love caught up to her.

“Give me your keys,” Love said, snatching the car keys gently from Milk’s hand before the taller girl could protest.

“What are you doing?” Milk asked, confused.

“I’m driving,” Love replied simply. She tossed her own car keys to Bonnie as she passed by. “I’ll text you the address of my new place later!”

“Wait, but where did you park your car?” Bonnie shouted after her. “Aish…” she muttered and was left behind.

.......

An hour passed. They didn’t talk much as Love drove aimlessly around the city. The silence wasn’t uncomfortable, it was heavy, full of everything neither of them knew how to say.

“Can you just drop me off somewhere around here?” Milk asked quietly at last.

“Why?” Love glanced at her.

“I’ll go drink,” Milk said. “I want to forget… everything.”

Love shot her a glare. “Over my dead body,” she muttered, remembering what View had told her about Milk’s drunk habits.

“Maybe just go to one of those anger-release studios,” Love suggested.

“I’m not angry,” Milk sighed. “I’m just… sad.”

There was another pause. Then Milk turned to her and asked, “Why are you being nice to me all of a sudden? Did you… hear something?”

Love sighed. “We heard what happened in the restroom,” she confessed. “Bonnie and I. We were already there before you two came in.”

Milk lowered her head. “You don’t need to explain. Things happen.”

“So… what do you want to do now?” Love asked.

“Drink until I pass out.”

Love rolled her eyes. “We’ll do something else.”

“Why are you doing this, Love?” Milk’s voice cracked. “Don’t you hate me? Can’t you just leave me alone? I want to be alone…” Tears started falling again, and she tried to wipe them away.

“I have a conscience,” Love said softly. “Knowing what happened to you… do you really think I could just leave you alone?”

Milk pouted at that, and Love — against her will, found it cute. She quickly looked away, focusing on the road.

“What do you think?” Milk asked quietly after a while. “Should I try to move on?”

“You’re stupid if you don’t,” Love answered without hesitation. “After all that, P’Miw.”

Milk’s eyes widened at the sudden sweet tone and the use of her nickname.

“I like that,” Milk said.

“Like what? Moving on?”

“No…” Milk shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips for the first time since she entered the car. “You calling me P’Miw.”

Love glared at her, cheeks slightly red, but Milk just smiled, a real, gentle smile that hadn’t been there in weeks.

Love didn’t even ask where Milk wanted to go, she just drove straight to the nearest mall and parked the car.

“Where are we going?” Milk asked, sounding tired.

“Cinema,” Love said simply, grabbing Milk’s wrist and pulling her along before the taller girl could argue.

A heavy drama film was playing, one of those long, sad movies that made people cry. Love bought the tickets and popcorn without another word, and soon they were sitting side by side in the dark theater.

Milk watched quietly, and before she knew it, tears were rolling down her cheeks. She cried through the emotional scenes, sniffled at the sad dialogues, and even wiped her eyes with her sleeve.

Love, on the other hand, was slumped comfortably in her seat, sleeping like a baby ten minutes into the movie.

At one point, Milk noticed Love shivering. Without thinking, she took off her jacket and gently draped it over Love’s shoulders. Love stirred a little but didn’t wake.

When the movie finally ended, Love blinked awake, groggy but warm. Feeling the jacket still wrapped around her, she mumbled, “Thanks…” and started taking it off.

“Just return it later,” Milk said softly, still wiping her eyes.

Love nodded and slipped the jacket back on — she really was cold.

......

By the time they got home, everyone else in the mansion was already asleep. The house was quiet, just the sound of their footsteps as they walked down the hallway side by side.

When they reached Love’s room, she held out the jacket. “Here.”

Milk smiled and accepted it. Then, unexpectedly, she chuckled.

“What?” Love asked, tilting her head.

“I just remembered,” Milk said, amusement dancing in her eyes. “All my siblings are courting you… but I’m the first one who actually went out with you.”

“Yah! this wasn’t a date,” Love shot back, cheeks warming.

Milk just shrugged. “Whatever you say. Goodnight, little one.”

“Goodnight…” Love muttered, but she was smiling as she watched Milk walk away.

For the first time since everything happened, a night spent with Milk didn’t end in anger and that made Love’s chest feel strangely light.

The next morning, the smell of sizzling butter and frying eggs filled the mansion’s kitchen.

All four Kwong sisters were gathered around the table, but this time, it wasn’t Emi or Milk behind the stove, it was Namtan.

Wearing an apron that said “Future Master Chef”, she hummed proudly while flipping pancakes and stirring a pot of soup at the same time.

“Are you sure we can eat all of this?” View asked, staring at the mountain of food already piling up on the counter.

“You have to,” Namtan said, pointing her spatula at them dramatically. “I woke you all up early because this is part of my future plans!”

“Future plans?” Emi raised a brow. “Didn’t your last plan end after three days?”

Namtan ignored the jab and continued talking. “Yes, I used to want to be a model full time. Then I tried working at Mom’s office, boring. Then I tried studying to be a flight attendant, too strict. Then I thought about becoming a doctor, too scary.”

“And now?” View asked, already giggling.

“Now…” Namtan turned with a flourish, holding up her spatula like a sword. “I’ve decided to open my own restaurant! And become one of the chefs myself!”

Milk, who had a dull headache from crying herself to sleep last night, managed a small smile. She didn’t want to ruin the mood, so she played along with her sister’s enthusiasm. “Sounds good. Just… maybe don’t poison us today, okay?”

“Very funny,” Namtan said, sticking her tongue out. “Anyway, I talked to a friend, and apparently they know someone who’s planning to open a restaurant. If I invest, I can join the kitchen and learn while we build the business.”

“Ooooh~ Chef Namtan,” Emi teased, pretending to applaud.

“Chef Phi Namtan,” Namtan corrected with a smirk. “You’ll all be lining up for my food one day.”

Milk let out a soft laugh at their usual banter. Even with the heaviness in her chest, moments like this, simple, messy mornings with her sisters, reminded her that life still went on.

Later that morning, Bonnie finally arrived, driving Love’s car.

“Wow…” Bonnie said as soon as she stepped out and looked at the mansion. “This place is beautiful, Love. Almost like my dream house.”

“Come on,” Love said with a small smile. “I’ll introduce you to the owner and her three sisters.”

They walked up to the front door together. Emi was already waiting, excited to greet Love’s guest but the moment Bonnie saw her, she stomped forward with a glare.

“You!” Bonnie snapped. “You’re that fox-looking jerk!”

“What?” Emi blinked. “Excuse me?”

“What?” Love echoed, confused.

“That’s the girl!” Bonnie said, pointing accusingly. “The one who bumped into me, made me spill my drink, threw money at me, and ran away!”

Emi’s eyes widened as the memory hit her but the story in her head was completely different.

...........

Emi’s side of the story:

Earlier that day, she’d walked into a café to order coffee when her phone rang. It was the motor taxi driver, she’d noticed she still had his extra helmet from the ride. Embarrassed, Emi had panicked and run back outside to return it. In her rush, she accidentally bumped into someone, saw the drink fall, muttered a quick “Sorry!” and dropped some cash on the floor before dashing off.

When she returned, the girl was gone and the janitor was cleaning the spill. Feeling guilty, Emi gave the janitor money and apologized for the mess.

......

“No, I did say sorry!” Emi argued.

“You did not!” Bonnie yelled back.

(The truth was somewhere in between, Emi’s apology had been too soft and rushed, and Bonnie, already upset about being late, hadn’t heard a thing.)

Emi stepped closer, annoyed, but when she locked eyes with Bonnie, her heart skipped a beat.

“What? Are you going to punch me now, jerk?” Bonnie sneered.

“Of course not! And stop lying!” Emi shot back, then glanced at Love and quickly remembered the person she was trying to impress.

Before things got worse, Milk walked into the them, holding a folder. “Oh, hi Nong Bonnie.”

Bonnie’s angry face melted into a sweet smile. “Phi Milk, good morning~”

“What the heck?” Emi muttered, frowning. “Why is she suddenly acting cute for P'Milk?”

Love looked back and forth between the two, unsure how to feel.

“Bonnie,” Milk asked, “is your full name Bonnie Pattraphus Borattasuwan?”

“Yes, Phi. Why?” Bonnie asked, confused.

Milk handed both Bonnie and Emi a set of papers.

“What’s this?” Emi asked.

“Mom called earlier,” Milk explained. “The interior designer wants to meet the engineer meaning you because you rejected her idea and said it wasn’t safe. And Bonnie, this is the engineer you were trying to contact.”

“What?!” Bonnie gasped. “You’re the one who rejected two of my designs?!”

“That’s not possible!” Emi argued.

And just like that, the two were bickering again.

Love looked lost, so Milk took her hand gently. “Come on,” she whispered. “Knowing how designers and engineers are, they’ll be at it for hours.”

Without even realizing it, they walked hand-in-hand into the house.

........

By the time they reached the kitchen, Namtan had just finished washing the dishes. Milk let go of Love’s hand and went to grab a bottle of water from the fridge.

Namtan smile when she saw Love. 

“Is six o’clock okay for our date?” Namtan asked Love with a bright smile.

Love nodded, and Namtan clapped her hands happily. “Then see you at six!” She skipped away toward her room.

Love didn’t know why, but the moment Namtan left, her eyes instinctively searched for Milk. She couldn’t see her, Milk’s head was hidden behind the open refrigerator door.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice yelling from the hallway.

“Love! Why did you leave me alone with that fox-faced jerk?!” Bonnie complained, storming in.

“Yah! I’m not a jerk!” Emi shouted back.

“Yes, you are. And Love, if she’s courting you, as your best friend, I’m giving her minus one hundred points!” Bonnie declared.

“Yah!” Emi whined, then turned to Love with a pout. “Don’t listen to her, Love…”

Love chuckled softly. “Don’t worry, Emi,” she said, and then turned to Bonnie. “Let’s just eat breakfast.”

She guided Bonnie to the dining table, helped her sit down, and started getting food for her.

As she was piling food on a plate, she heard Milk’s quiet voice behind her.

“Such a busy lady,” Milk whispered, followed by a soft chuckle.

Love wanted to kick Milk’s shin for teasing her, but the taller girl was already out of reach and all she could do was roll her eyes and try not to smile.

Chapter Text

Morning at Campus

View and Mewnich finally arrived at campus. As soon as they stepped out of the car, they were greeted by a smiling June and Mim waiting near the parking lot.

“Why are they here? They could’ve just waited in the classroom…” View muttered under her breath.

Before she could say anything more, June went straight to Mewnich.
“I can’t wait to see my girlfriend,” June said sweetly.

“I’m your ex-girlfriend,” Mewnich snapped, brushing past her. She headed straight for her classroom, but June followed right behind.

“I said I just wanted a time-out, not a break-up!” June pleaded.

Mewnich stopped walking and turned around, anger flashing in her eyes.
“Time-out, your face. Are you in kindergarten? We broke up, and you were the one who asked for it. Stop following me.”

She stormed off, but June, as always, still trailed behind her.

Meanwhile, View and Mim could only shake their heads at the scene. It had been months, and June still hadn’t given up on trying to win Mewnich back.

View sighed and turned to Mim. She was about to reach for Mim’s hand so they could walk to class together when a familiar voice interrupted.

“Hey, girls,” Fourth greeted with his usual bright smile.

“Hi,” View replied coldly. She knew perfectly well that Fourth had a crush on her best friend, and she didn’t like it one bit.

“Oh, Fourth! You’re finally here. We can go to the library now,” Mim said cheerfully.

“What? Don’t you have class today?” View asked, raising a brow. She definitely didn’t like where this was going.

“Our professor canceled today’s lecture,” Mim explained. “I wanted to have breakfast with you, but you were late. Fourth offered to treat me instead, and then we’re heading to the library. See you later, okay?”

Fourth handed Mim a drink and a sandwich, and she accepted it with a bright smile. Waving goodbye, she walked off with him toward the library, completely unaware of the glare forming on View’s face.

View pouted but waved back anyway. As she watched them leave, she caught the way Fourth looked at Mim and sighed.

“One day, I’m going to kill that guy,” she muttered under her breath. “He’s polluting Baby Mim’s air.”

She pulled out her phone, half-tempted to call Phi Namtan. “I should tell her her baby girl’s in danger,” she grumbled, remembering how Namtan always said Mim was like her daughter.

With nothing else to do, View trudged off toward her class still plotting Fourth’s fictional demise in her head.

Night at the Kwong Mansion

Night fell, and Namtan was already dressed up for her date with Love. She had chosen something simple, no flashy outfit, no over-the-top plans. She wanted this date to be different. Honest. Real. Not like the many dates she had with other girls in the past.

Love wasn’t just another fling. She was someone Namtan truly wanted to know. And besides, Love’s mother was her own mother’s best friend, another reason she couldn’t treat this like one of her usual casual relationships.

Before leaving, she climbed the stairs and stopped in front of Love’s bedroom door. She walked quietly, careful not to make too much noise. Even though Milk never said it out loud, Namtan knew her twin was going through something. Milk was the type to keep her struggles to herself until she had already solved them. So for now, Namtan could only wait and avoid getting scolded for making noise, because Milk hated that.

She knocked gently. Just loud enough for Love to hear, but not enough to bother Milk.

The door opened, and Love stepped out, wearing a simple casual dress.

“Hi,” Namtan greeted.

“Hi,” Love replied, smiling softly.

“Are you ready?” Namtan asked.

“Yes. Let’s go,” Love said, a little spark of excitement in her eyes.

“You look beautiful,” Namtan said honestly.

Love smiled shyly. “Thank you.”

The two of them headed out and soon found themselves having dinner at one of the most famous restaurants in Bangkok.

Throughout the meal, Namtan commented on every dish they tried  the flavors, the textures, the way they were plated.
“What do you think they used to cook this one?” she asked curiously. “I think I can make something like this at home.”

Love smiled as she listened, amused by how passionate Namtan had become about cooking.

The date was nice, warm, calm, and full of conversation  but still, something inside Love felt like it was missing. She didn’t know what, but the night wasn’t quite as full as she expected.

............

Back at the Kwong Mansion

Milk finally came downstairs to eat dinner. As she reached the bottom of the stairs, she stopped in her tracks, Bonnie was stepping out of Emi’s room, her hair and clothes a little messy.

Milk gasped loudly.

Both Emi and Bonnie turned at the sound, their eyes widening when they saw Milk pointing accusingly at them.

“Oh my god, Phi Milk! It’s not what you’re thinking!” Bonnie said, rushing toward her and gently pushing down her pointing finger.

Milk gave her a skeptical once-over from head to toe.

“Phi Milk, we were just working on the project you assigned me!” Bonnie explained quickly. “I lay down on her bed for a second, it was so cozy  and I fell asleep. That’s all!”

“Because of that, we couldn’t even agree on the final design!” Emi grumbled. “Phi, you’re the architect, why don’t you tell her what’s safe and what’s not?”

Milk blinked. “Oh… you two, that’s not my project anymore. Mom told me to stop working for now. I don’t know why. She just said I should stay home more often.”

Before anyone could respond, Bonnie’s stomach let out a loud growl.

Milk couldn’t help but giggle. “Are you hungry, Nong? I’m cooking dinner. You want to join?”

Bonnie’s eyes lit up. “Of course, Phi. I want salmon.”

“Salmon it is,” Milk said with a small smile as she walked toward the kitchen.

Emi followed behind them, muttering under her breath. “Why is Phi Milk so close to that rabbit?”

Meanwhile, Bonnie trailed after Milk, smiling softly to herself. I’m glad you’re smiling, Phi, she thought. That girl doesn’t deserve you.

Having gone through her own heartbreak before, Bonnie felt an instinctive need to stay by Milk’s side quietly supporting her, even if Milk never asked for it.

Dinner at Home

After the meal, the Kwong dining room was full Milk, Emi, Bonnie, and even View, who had just come home in time for dinner.
View did most of the talking, ranting passionately about the guy who had been hanging around Mim. The others mostly listened, nodding here and there. Bonnie stayed quiet the whole time; it was her first time meeting View, and she had no idea who Mim even was.

Later, Milk, View, and against her will  Emi, accompanied Bonnie outside to wait for her taxi. When it arrived, Bonnie climbed in and waved goodbye to Milk and View. Before leaving, she looked at Emi and said, “We’ll discuss everything tomorrow at the office.”

“Tch. That rabbit is such a brat,” Emi muttered as she walked back inside.

Milk was about to follow when she noticed View still standing on the porch.
“Come on, Nong. Let’s go in,” Milk said.

“No, Phi. I’ll wait here for Phi Namtan and Phi Love,” View replied, arms crossed. “I just have to make sure they don’t kiss.”

Milk blinked in surprise, then remembered Love once told her she’d “stolen” her first kiss… a kiss Milk still couldn’t remember.

“I don’t think Nong Love is the type of girl who kisses on a first date,” Milk said gently.

“Really, Phi?” View asked, searching Milk’s face for the truth.

Milk nodded. “Really.”

“Okay, then I’ll just wait for them in the living room,” View said, finally giving up and heading back inside. Milk smiled and followed her.

As they walked, View started talking again  mostly about the mysterious guy following Mim around. Milk just shook her head. Her little sister was so hopelessly clueless about her own feelings. Milk, Namtan, and Emi had known for years, even since they were kids, that View liked Mim. But they never said anything. They wanted her to figure it out on her own.

............

Meanwhile, on the Date

After dinner, Namtan asked, “Do you want to go somewhere else?”

Love shook her head. “I think I should head home. I have an early meeting at the agency tomorrow.”

Namtan pouted. “Am I boring you already?”

“No, not at all,” Love said quickly. “I really do have work.”

“Okay then,” Namtan sighed. She led them back to the car, and they drove home in comfortable silence.

When they parked, Namtan turned toward Love, leaning in closer  but Love gently stopped her.
Namtan froze. It was the first time anyone had ever stopped her like that.

“I’m sorry,” Love said softly. “I’m just… not the type to kiss on a first date.”

“Oh— Sorry,” Namtan blurted, sitting back quickly. Her cheeks felt hot from embarrassment.

.........

Back at the Mansion

When they stepped inside, they saw View asleep on the sofa, mumbling something about “killing Fourth” in her dreams. Namtan and Love shared a quiet laugh.

They walked together to the foot of the stairs, where their date came to an end.

“I had a great time,” Love said with a small wave. Then she headed upstairs.

Namtan watched her go, smiling to herself as Love disappeared upstair.

...............

When Love finally finished her shower, dried her hair, and lay down, sleep refused to come. She turned on her side. Then the other. Still awake.
With a quiet sigh, she got up and decided some fresh air might help.

As she stepped out onto the balcony, she stopped, there, sitting alone on one of the chairs, was Milk, a can of beer in her hand.

Oh no… she’s drinking again.
Instinctively, Love’s hand flew to her lips, a reflex from the last time Milk had been drunk and she was about to turn back to her room when Milk noticed her.

“I’m not drunk,” Milk said before Love could say anything. “It’s my first drink. I just… need something to help me sleep. Promise I won’t drink past these two cans.”
Then she lifted the unopened one and offered it. “Or maybe you want one?”

Love stared at the can, skeptical. Milk chuckled softly.

“I promise I won’t get drunk from just one beer.”

Love let out a small sigh. Maybe I could use one too, she thought, something to loosen up the restlessness in her mind. She took the can and sat down, keeping a noticeable distance between them.

Milk laughed again. “You really don’t trust me, huh?”

Minutes passed. Neither of them spoke, just the quiet sound of the night and the soft hiss of opened cans as they both drank in silence.

Then Milk broke it.
“How was your date?”

“None of your business,” Love replied automatically.

“Ouch,” Milk said with a teasing grin. “I was just trying to start a conversation.”

Guilt tugged at Love’s chest. She sighed. “...It was okay.”

Milk nodded slowly. “First time my twin’s ever had a date that was just okay,” she muttered, then laughed to herself.

Love felt her lips twitch into a smile before she even realized it. Why do I like seeing her smile so much? she wondered.

A little later, Milk tilted back the last of her drink and stood. “I’m done. Goodnight, Love.”

“Goodnight,” Love said back as Milk waved and walked inside.

She looked down at her own can, still half-full and felt a yawn creep up on her. Finally, sleepiness was settling in. Love stood, stretched, and went back to her room.

she smiled to herself as she drifted into sleep.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Love woke up earlier than usual, she had a meeting scheduled for a new endorsement and didn’t want to be late. After a quick shower and a simple outfit, she planned to skip breakfast and just grab something on the way.

But when she headed to the kitchen for a bottle of water, she froze.

Milk was already there, humming softly as she assembled sandwiches on the counter.

“Good morning, Nong Love,” Milk greeted her with a gentle smile.

Love blinked, a little caught off guard. It was the first time Milk had ever greeted her like that in the morning.

“Good morning,” she replied, a bit shyly.

She moved to the fridge and took out a bottle of water. As she twisted the cap open, Milk asked, “Aren’t you going to eat breakfast?”

“I’ll just buy something on the way,” Love answered without looking up.

But then, to her surprise, Milk held out a small tupperware. “Here. You can take this.”

“Oh no, it’s okay,” Love said quickly, shaking her head.

“Just take it. It’s not a big deal,” Milk said, brushing off the protest as she went to sit at the dining table.

Love hesitated, then took the container. “...Thank you,” she said softly, almost shyly, before heading out the door with the sandwich in hand.

...........

A little while later, View entered the kitchen, rummaging through the counter.

“Phi, have you seen the sandwich I made? I was going to bring it to school.”

Milk glanced at her. “Oh… I gave it to Nong Love.”

“Oh, that’s fine! She can have all my food,” View said cheerfully. “I’ll just buy something on the way. Or maybe eat at the cafeteria.”

She quickly pulled out her phone and typed a message.

> Mim, wait for me. I’ll pick you up, let’s have breakfast on the way to campus.

A few seconds later, Mim replied with a simple Okay, and View grinned brightly.

“Oooh… breakfast date with Mim, I see,” Milk teased lightly, her tone playful.

View shot her a suspicious look. “Why are you still here, Phi? Don’t you have work?” she deflected quickly, teasing about Mim always made her feel… weird. Feelings she didn’t understand yet.

“Mom said I need to stop working for now,” Milk replied simply.

“Oh, that’s good,” View said with a laugh. “I was starting to think you’d end up marrying your job one day.”

But when she noticed the faint, sad smile in Milk’s eyes, her laughter faded. Something felt off, but she didn’t press — she knew her sister wouldn’t tell her anything until she was ready.

“Okay, I’m going. See you later, Phi,” View said instead, waving before heading out for university.

Milk was still quietly eating her breakfast when Emi stumbled out of her bedroom, hair messy and eyes half-closed.

“Morning, Phi,” Emi mumbled when she saw her sister at the table.

“Morning. Don’t you have a meeting with Bonnie today?” Milk asked, raising a brow when she noticed Emi wasn’t in any rush.

“That brat can wait. I need my breakfast first,” Emi said as she yawned and shuffled toward the coffee machine.

Before Milk could reply, her phone rang. An unfamiliar number flashed on the screen. For a moment she considered ignoring it, but curiosity won, and she answered putting the call on speaker.

“Hello?” Milk said.

“Oh, hello, Phi. This is Bonnie,” came the cheerful voice from the other end. “I found your calling card here in my office. I was trying to reach that jerk of a sister of yours, but she’s not answering her phone.”

Emi, who clearly heard everything, gestured wildly for Milk to make up an excuse.

“Oh, Nong, I think Emi is still asleep,” Milk said calmly.

“Oh, Phi, if you don’t mind, can you tell her to get here as soon as possible? I have a meeting at 10 and it’ll last the whole day.”

“Okay, Nong, I’ll let her know.”

“Thank you, Phi. Goodbye and please save my number,” Bonnie said sweetly.

“I will, Nong. Goodbye, have a nice day,” Milk replied before ending the call.

She turned to scold her sister for slacking off, but froze when she saw Emi staring at her in mock horror.

“Are you my Phi Milk?! Oh my god, someone replaced you! I’m calling Phi Namtan.. no, I’m calling Mom! I’ll tell them someone kidnapped Phi Milk and replaced her completely!” Emi cried dramatically.

Milk raised an eyebrow. “What are you talking about?”

“You’re not my sister. Phi Milk would never talk to someone that calmly, sweetly, even,” Emi accused, narrowing her eyes.

“Stop it,” Milk sighed, glaring at her.

“Oh, it’s you. But wait” Emi gasped. “Don’t tell me… you like that brat?”

“You’re crazy,” Milk muttered. “I just think of her like a baby. Maybe the same way Namtan thinks of Mim like a daughter.”

“Ohhh…” Emi leaned closer, still suspicious. “But really, you’ve changed, Phi. What happened?”

Unlike their other sisters, Emi was the type to push until she got answers. And Milk, knowing there was no escaping, decided to tell her.

“Well, like I told you yesterday… Mom told me to stop working for a while,” she said quietly. “And… my girlfriend and I broke up.”

Emi’s eyes widened. She immediately took a step toward her sister, but Milk pointed her fork at her.

“Hug me and I’ll stab you.”

Emi stopped mid-step. “Are you okay, Phi?”

“Getting better,” Milk said honestly. “It still hurts… and I still cry when I think about it. But I decided to move on. I want to stress less and stop to prove myself to the people around me. Maybe Film broke up with me because I was always too focused on work and never had time for her”

She sighed. “Next time, if I date someone again, I’ll try to balance it — fifty-fifty, between her and work.”

There was a small silence, then Milk clapped her hands once. “Anyway, back to the topic. You’d better hurry and get dressed. Go to Bonnie’s office. Now.”

“But I still need to eat breakfast…” Emi whined.

“Eat on the way. You know I don’t want people calling us nepo babies.”

“I know, Phi, but I need breakfast.”

“Get ready now, or I will stab you with this fork,” Milk threatened flatly.

“Aish… yeah, that’s definitely you,” Emi muttered. “Such a buzzkill.”

She sighed and trudged back to her room to change. She knew she couldn’t really do anything to fix her sister’s broken heart, but at the very least, she could follow her orders.

.......

Emi arrived at Bonnie’s office right at nine. The moment she stepped inside, Bonnie was already standing there, arms crossed and eyes narrowed.

“You’re late,” Bonnie said flatly.

“I am not,” Emi shot back. “We don’t even have a set appointment today. Be thankful I made time for you, I’ve got a schedule too, you know.”

“Still a jerk, I see,” Bonnie muttered under her breath.

“Stop calling me a jerk, you brat,” Emi retorted.

“Whatever,” Bonnie sighed. “Let’s just discuss what the client wants for their building.”

“I already told you,” Emi said, voice rising slightly. “That feng shui design you’re suggesting is not safe.”

“But that’s what the client wants.”

“I don’t care. Safety comes first,” Emi said firmly, arms crossed.

Bonnie exhaled through her nose and muttered to herself, This is going to take a while.

Their argument continued back and forth, neither willing to compromise. At some point, the architect they had hired arrived and quietly took a seat but it didn’t matter. Emi and Bonnie were so caught up in their debate that they completely ignored the poor architect’s attempts to offer input.

“Maybe we could—”

“No, that’s not practical,” Bonnie cut in without even looking.

“I agree with—”

“It’s still unsafe,” Emi interrupted before the architect could finish.

Minutes turned into hours, and not a single decision was agreed upon. The atmosphere in the room was tense, and the architect looked utterly invisible, a silent witness to a battle of stubborn wills.

Finally, Bonnie sighed and glanced at the clock. “We’ll have to continue this later. I have a client meeting.”

“Fine. I’ll come back at four in the afternoon,” Emi replied coolly.

They both left the room, still refusing to acknowledge the frustrated architect sitting silently in the corner.

..........

Meanwhile, in Phuket…

Namtan arrived in the city early, determined to make a good impression on the potential business partner her friend had recommended. Their meeting was scheduled for 10 a.m., and by 9:45 she was already at the small restaurant where they’d agreed to meet.

Scanning the room, she immediately spotted the woman she was supposed to meet, the face matched the photo her friend had sent. She approached with a polite smile.

“Hi—” Namtan began, but before she could finish, the woman cut her off sharply.

“Not interested.”

Namtan blinked, then let out a soft chuckle. “I’m not asking for your number. I’m here for the meeting, I just arrived a little early.”

The woman’s expression shifted to embarrassment. “Oh my god, I’m so sorry. Hi, I’m Film. Film Mahawan.”

Film? The name rang a bell. Namtan’s heart skipped a beat. Is she… Milk’s Film?

“I’m Namtan Tipnaree,” she said, smiling politely. As always, she chose not to mention her family name. Just like Milk, she hated being called a nepo baby. But unlike her twin, who tried to prove her worth through relentless hard work, Namtan simply avoided anyone who knew who her mother was. She’d even quit her office job, her medical training, and flight attendant course when people started treating her differently.

“Shall we discuss the restaurant?” she said, steering them back to business. “I have a piece of land here in Phuket. I believe my friend already told you about it.”

“Yes,” Film nodded. “I’ll provide the building design and materials.”

“Oh, you already have a design prepared?”

“Yes. My girlfriend—” Film paused, then corrected herself, “—my ex-girlfriend gave it to me as a gift on our one-year anniversary.”

“Ex?” Namtan echoed, pretending to sound casual, but her mind was racing. Is this really the girl? The reason Milk’s been so broken lately?

“It’s a long story,” Film said quickly, not wanting to talk about her love life with a stranger.

Namtan nodded. She wanted to press for more, but held herself back. “May I take a look at the design?”

“Of course.” Film handed her a carefully rolled set of papers. “Please be careful with that I treasure it a lot. Everything about the restaurant’s structure, budget, and design is in there. It’s a careful plan, affordable but never substandard.”

Namtan gently unfolded the plans and the moment she saw the handwriting and the signature on the design sheets, her suspicion was confirmed. Film was indeed that Film, Milk’s ex-girlfriend.

She glanced up at the woman across from her, who was watching the papers with a soft, almost longing expression.

What happened between you two? Namtan thought silently. Looking at Film now, it was painfully clear: she still had feelings for Milk.

..............

Later that afternoon…

Bonnie texted Emi and the architect saying that their meeting had to be moved to 5 p.m. because she had a family emergency.

Emi immediately tried calling her, but Bonnie’s phone was off.

“This brat is doing it on purpose,” Emi muttered, punching the air in frustration inside her office. “I know she knows I have a date with Love today!”

Before five, Emi arrived at Bonnie’s office early. She planned to tell her that she was quitting the project and handing it over to someone else because working with her was just impossible.

When the clock struck five, Bonnie finally arrived. Emi stormed toward her, ready to yell but the anger died in her throat the second she saw Bonnie’s red, tear-stained eyes.

“What happened?” Emi asked, her tone softening.

Bonnie didn’t answer. Instead, she collapsed into Emi’s arms and cried on her shoulder.

Through sobs, Emi learned that Bonnie’s friend had been in a car accident and was now in the hospital. Emi asked why she hadn’t stayed there, but Bonnie explained that the friend’s parents had insisted she go home, they’d call her when there was any news.

Wiping her tears, Bonnie pulled away, straightened her clothes, and quietly said, “We should just continue the discussion.”

“Wait,” Emi replied. “I need to make a call first.”

She stepped aside and dialed Milk. Her sister picked up almost instantly.

“Phi, can I ask you a favor?” Emi said.

“What?” Milk asked. Emi could hear Japanese voices in the background probably the drama Milk had been watching.

“I’m stuck in a meeting with Bonnie. But I have a date with Love today. I asked her to meet me at the amusement park. Can you go there and pick her up?”

“What? Why not call Namtan or View? Why me?” Milk complained, even though she was already standing up and grabbing her car keys.

“Phi Namtan is in Phuket today, and View…” Emi sighed, “…I refuse to let my competition get a head start.”

“Love has a car. She can drive herself home,” Milk argued while already putting on her shoes.

“I told her to take a taxi because I was supposed to drive us home.”

Milk let out a long sigh. “Fine, fine. Just send me her number. I’ll call her.”

“Thanks, Phi. I owe you one,” Emi said, relieved. Then she headed back into the meeting room, determined to compromise with the design this time — she didn’t want to add to Bonnie’s stress.

..........

Milk arrived at the amusement park about thirty minutes later. She quickly texted Love, introducing herself and telling her this was her number.

> Milk: “I’m here. Where are you?”

Love stared at the message, puzzled. Still, she saved Milk’s number and then called her.

“Hello, Phi Miw. Why are you calling? I have a date with Phi Emi today,” Love said shyly.

“Hello, Nong. Oh, I see you. Don’t move,” Milk replied before ending the call.

A minute later, Milk appeared in front of her.

“What are you doing here, Phi?” Love asked, surprised.

“Oh, Emi called. She said her meeting with Nong Bonnie is taking longer than expected. Since you don’t have a car and it’s hard to find a taxi or motorbike here, she asked me to pick you up.”

“Oh… is that so? Then let’s just go home,” Love said politely.

Milk smiled. “We’re already here. And it’s been ages since I last went t

o an amusement park. Why don’t we just go and have some fun?”

Love hesitated for a second, then smiled back. “Sure, why not? It’s been a long time for me too.”

Side by side, they walked toward the park entrance to buy their tickets, neither of them noticing how natural it felt to be together like this.

Chapter Text

Back in Phuket

The whole morning, Namtan and Film spent their time inspecting the lot that Namtan owned.

After walking around the area and checking every corner, Film concluded that it was the perfect spot to build the new café and restaurant. The land was near the beach, with a calm breeze that carried the scent of salt and trees.

Film asked curiously, “Why did you buy land in Phuket, anyway?”

Namtan smiled faintly. “Bangkok is too chaotic. I’ve always wanted a quieter life. This place feels peaceful.”

Film nodded. “I get that,” she said softly. She too preferred quiet places over the noise of the city.

When lunchtime came, they agreed to eat together so they could discuss more about the partnership.

Over steaming dishes and the sound of the waves nearby, Namtan still couldn’t believe this was the girl her twin sister broke up with, the same girl who still looked like she was holding onto something, or someone.

As Film explained parts of her plan, Namtan suddenly asked, “Are you really set on building the restaurant exactly as it is in the architectural drawing?”

“Yes,” Film replied immediately.

“Why?” Namtan leaned forward slightly. “Are you still living in your ex-girlfriend’s shadow?”

Film’s brows furrowed. For a moment, she wanted to snap that it was none of Namtan’s business but it was her business. They were about to be partners, after all.

She took a deep breath and said calmly, “It’s not because of her. It’s because this is my dream restaurant. Every part of that design from the layout to the materials is something I’ve dream for. It’s not about her anymore.”

Namtan blinked, realizing her mistake. “I’m sorry,” she said gently. “That was too nosy of me.”

Film relaxed a little, her grip on the pen easing.

“But…” Namtan continued with a small smile, “Can I suggest something to add to the design?”

Film looked hesitant but asked, “What is it?”

“One more floor,” Namtan said. “For a small house, mine.”

Film frowned slightly. “The land is wide enough, Phi. Why not build your house beside the restaurant instead of on top of it?”

Namtan laughed softly. “You’re really not one for compromise, huh?”

Film met her eyes and smiled a little. “Not when it comes to the structure.”

Namtan didn’t push further. She could see in Film’s expression that the younger woman wouldn’t budge once she’d made up her mind.

So, Namtan simply nodded and went along with Film’s idea, silently admiring how passionate and determined she was.

Back at Dream World

Milk couldn’t help but laugh as she thought about her sister. Emi had planned such a romantic date, only for work to ruin it at the last minute.

Love looked at her curiously. “Why are you laughing to yourself, Phi Miw?”

Milk grinned. “I just remembered Emi’s bad timing. She was supposed to have a date with you today, but she’s stuck in a meeting with the one person she can’t stand.”

Love chuckled and playfully slapped Milk’s shoulder. “Don’t laugh at your sister’s misfortune!”

Milk pointed at her with a teasing smile. “See? Even you called it misfortune!”

Love laughed harder, shaking her head. “It’s nice seeing you finally laugh like this, Phi Miw.”

Milk smiled softly. “I told you, I’m moving on. And you… without meaning to, you helped me do that.”

Love blushed and looked away, unsure what to say. Before she could speak, Milk gently took her hand and led her toward the carnival game booths.

“Come on,” Milk said brightly. “I want to win a stuffed toy.”

Five games later, Milk managed to win just one, a medium size Hello Kitty doll. She had been aiming for the giant teddy bear, but Love stopped her before she could spend more money.

“Let’s look around more,” Love said. “Don’t get stuck on carnival games.”

Milk pouted like a child who didn’t get her candy. “Fine.” Then she handed the Hello Kitty doll to Love. “Here. You can have it.”

Love hugged the plushie close and smiled. “Thank you, Phi Miw.”

They continued walking until Love spotted the haunted house. Her eyes lit up. “Let’s go in there!”

Milk froze. “Uh… how about we go there instead?” she said, pointing at the merry-go-round.

“Nope,” Love said with a mischievous grin, grabbing Milk’s wrist. “You’re coming with me.”

“Oh my god, I forgot how much I hate this,” Milk muttered as they stepped inside.

The lights dimmed, eerie sounds echoing around them. Moments later—

“AAAAHHHHH!” Milk screamed so loud that even the ghosts flinched.

Love was laughing so hard she could barely walk straight. “Phi Miw, you’re worse than a kid!”

Meanwhile, one of the staff in costume sighed under his mask. Oh my god, another couple. Please, someone just end my shift already.

Meanwhile, near the campus…

View, Mim, June, and Mewnich were having dinner at their favorite small restaurant.

June was happily putting food on Mewnich’s plate when Mewnich snapped, “Stop doing that.”

June pouted, her chopsticks still mid-air. Mewnich looked away, quietly eating.

Do not give in, she told herself. Even if she looks adorable when she pouts like that.

Across the table, View was cheerfully eating while scrolling through her phone, completely unaware of the tension.

“What are you so busy with?” Mim asked curiously.

View’s face lit up. “I’m checking my schedule! I have a date tomorrow with my idol, Love!”

Mewnich looked up. “Oh, it’s tomorrow already? Good luck!”

Mim almost frowned, but caught herself just in time. June noticed though and smirked.

Before View could continue bragging, a familiar voice interrupted.

“Hi, girls.”

It was Fourth. Everyone greeted him except View, who suddenly found her plate very interesting and started stabbing her food with her fork.

Fourth smiled at Mim. “So… are you free tomorrow? Maybe we can grab dinner?”

He glanced at View for a split second, who didn’t even look up, pretending to scroll her phone.

Mim blinked in surprise, then smiled. “Okay.”

Fourth’s face lit up, he’d been asking her out for weeks. “Great! I’ll wait for you at the gate tomorrow.”

“See you,” Mim said casually.

When Fourth finally left, View slammed her phone down. “Mim! Why did you say yes? I’m telling Phi Namtan!”

Mim crossed her arms. “You have a date tomorrow, why can’t I?”

View pouted, puffing her cheeks. “Maybe I’ll just follow Fourth and kill him.”

“And no killing, even in your mind, Phi View,” Mim said firmly.

“I lost my appetite,” View muttered dramatically. “Mewnich, let’s go home.”

“What?!” June said, frowning. “Why are you taking my lovely Mew? I can take her home myself!”

“Whatever,” View said, already standing up. Mewnich quickly followed her, trying not to laugh as June sulked behind them.

June crossed her arms, glaring at Mim. “Making her jealous because you’re jealous, I can accept that. But dragging my lovely Mewnich into it? I don’t approve.”

Mim just pouted, resting her chin on her hand. “It’s not like I planned it.”

At the Mansion

Emi came home exhausted. She wanted to argue with everything Bonnie said during their meeting but forced herself not to. This time, she listened to the architect’s opinion, and thankfully, they found a compromise both she and Bonnie could agree on.

By the time Emi arrived at the mansion, she was tired and frustrated. Her chance to impress Love had gone completely down the drain because of that damn project.

Still, she sat on the front steps instead of going inside. She wanted to wait for Love and her sister Milk to come home, she needed to apologize for bailing on their date.

And maybe… feed her sister too. Milk had texted earlier:

> “Love dragged me into the haunted house. I will make you pay. 😡”

Emi snorted reading it, then grabbed a box of kanom krok and a six-pack of beer from the kitchen, ready to use it as a peace offering.

The first to arrive home, though, were View and Mewnich.

“Goodnight, Phi Emi,” View muttered, looking gloomy as she went straight to her bedroom.

“What’s her problem?” Emi asked.

Mewnich sighed. “Mim said yes to a date with one of her classmate. View got mad.”

Emi chuckled. “Nice, one competitor down.”

“Did you say something, Phi?” Mewnich asked.

“Nothing~,” Emi said quickly.

Mewnich just nodded. “Goodnight, Phi Emi.”

Half an hour later, Milk and Love arrived.

Milk was pouting; Love looked like she had just won a prize.

“Hi,” Emi greeted, smiling. “Sorry for bailing earlier.”

“It’s okay, Phi Emi,” Love said kindly.

Milk glared at Emi. “Where’s my food?”

“Phi, you literally ate before we left amusement park” Love said, giggling.

“You dragged me into a haunted house, Nong. I’m traumatized. I need food and anime to sleep tonight.”

Both Love and Emi burst out laughing. Emi handed Milk the box of kanom krok and a pack of beer.

“Will this do?” she asked.

Milk examined the box, then nodded. “Hmm… okay. Goodnight, Nong Love. Goodnight, Nong Emi.”

She turned and disappeared into the house.

Love blinked. Emi, however, froze.

“Phi Emi, are you okay?” Love asked, tilting her head.

“Did—did Phi Milk just say goodnight to me?” Emi whispered.

“Yes, Phi, she did.”

“Oh my god,” Emi gasped. “My Phi got kidnapped! I knew it! Someone replaced her!”

Love couldn’t help but giggle at Emi’s dramatic reaction.

Then Emi’s phone buzzed. She opened it and read the new message:

> “Stop being dramatic or I’ll kill you.”

Emi exhaled in relief. “False alarm. That’s definitely Phi Milk.”

Love laughed again.

Emi smiled sheepishly. “I’m really sorry about today. Can we reschedule our date?”

“Sorry, Phi Emi,” Love said. “I have a date with Nong View tomorrow.”

Emi pretended not to be disappointed. “Then… how about the day after tomorrow?”

Love shook her head gently. “Maybe next Saturday, Phi. I’ve been out since Wednesday—I really need to rest.”

“Okay, I’ll take that. I’m sorry again,” Emi said sincerely.

“It’s fine,” Love replied with a soft smile. “On the bright side, I got to see Phi Milk scream her heart out at a guy in costume. It was priceless.”

Emi laughed. “I wish I was there! Phi Namtan, View, and I would have loved to see that.”

They both laughed again, the sound light and easy.

“Tea before bed?” Emi offered.

“I’ll take you up on that,” Love said, still hugging the Hello Kitty plush Milk had won for her.

“Come on then,” Emi smiled. “I’ll make us a snack too.”

Love nodded and followed her inside, two soft footsteps echoing through the quiet mansion.

Late Night Tea

The mansion was quiet, the kind of quiet that made even the sound of boiling water feel loud. Emi was in the kitchen, tying her hair up while humming softly as she prepared tea and biscuits.

Love sat by the kitchen counter, watching. The soft yellow light above them made the scene feel peaceful, almost domestic.

“Do you take sugar?” Emi asked, opening a jar.

“Just a little,” Love answered. “I don’t like it too sweet.”

“Ah, like me,” Emi joked—and immediately regretted it.

Love blinked, then giggled. “You’re sweet enough, Phi.”

Emi’s face turned red as she fumbled with the spoon, accidentally dropping it. The spoon clattered on the counter, bouncing to the floor.

“Oh my god,” Emi muttered, bending to pick it up, only to hit her head on the counter when she came back up.

Love gasped. “Phi Emi! Are you okay?”

Emi rubbed her head, smiling awkwardly. “I’m fine, I’m fine! Just testing the strength of my skull.”

Love couldn’t help but laugh. “You’re so clumsy, Phi.”

Emi pouted but smiled anyway. “I’m not clumsy. The counter attacked me first.”

Love giggled again. She liked seeing this side of Emi, unfiltered, a little goofy, but sincere. Not the cool, confident version she showed everyone else.

When Emi finally poured the tea, she slid the cup to Love and said, “Careful, it’s hot, like me.”

Love raised a brow. “That’s twice, Phi.”

Emi covered her mouth, realizing what she said, then laughed along with Love. “Okay, I should stop talking before I embarrass myself more.”

They talked for a while, about work and little things that didn’t matter but somehow made the night feel soft and real. Emi listened when Love spoke, leaning on the counter, her chin resting in her palm, eyes warm and gentle.

When Love finished her tea, she smiled at Emi. “Thank you, Phi. I really had a good time tonight.”

Emi smiled back, softer now. “Me too, Nong Love. Sorry again for today.”

“It’s fine,” Love said, shaking her head. “You made up for it.”

She stood up, get her Hello Kitty plush and said “Goodnight, Phi Emi.”

“Goodnight, Nong Love,” Emi replied, watching her leave.

As Love walked back to her room, she smiled to herself. She hugged the plush a little tighter, her heart oddly light.

Phi Emi may be clumsy, she thought, but she’s also kind… and warm.

She didn’t know why, but the thought slipped quietly into her mind before she fell asleep,

maybe, just maybe, Phi Emi has the most potential to be a wife someday.

Chapter Text

The Next Morning

The smell of eggs and toast filled the dining area as Emi, Mewnich, and Love sat together having breakfast. Their laughter mixed with the sound of clinking utensils.

A moment later, footsteps echoed from the hall. Milk walked in, dressed neatly and holding her own plate of breakfast.

“Morning, everyone,” she greeted with a smile.

Mewnich blinked in surprise. “Good morning, Phi Milk. I like your smile today.”

Milk chuckled. “Thank you, Nong. I like yours too.”

She took the seat beside Emi. Before Emi could joke, Milk pointed a spoon at her. “No, I’m not an impostor. Eat your breakfast.”

All three of them burst out laughing.

When the laughter settled, Emi asked, “Phi, why are you dressed up? I thought you didn’t have work for now.”

“I don’t,” Milk replied. “I’m just going to my apartment. I need to clean up and grab a few things. I’ll be back before dinner.”

Everyone nodded, and the light conversation continued until Emi stood up. “I’ll head out first. Early meeting,” she said, waving goodbye as she left the mansion.

A few minutes later, the peace was broken by the sound of heavy footsteps. A grumpy View emerged from her room, hair still messy.

“Good morning, everyone,” she said half-heartedly, rubbing her eyes.

Love smiled at her. “Morning, Nong View.”

View sat down beside her and sighed. “Phi Love, I think I can’t take you on a date today. Something came up.”

“It’s okay,” Love replied gently. “I understand if you’re busy.”

Milk, chewing on her toast, couldn’t help herself. “Busy? More like following Mim on her date.”

“Phi!” View whined. “I— I’m not—”

Milk raised her brows, silencing her. View puffed her cheeks, stomped her foot like a child, and marched to the kitchen to make her own breakfast.

“Mim?” Love asked, curious.

Milk smiled. “You don’t know her yet. She’s View’s childhood friend. And just a heads up, I don’t think View will continue courting you.”

“Why is that, Phi?” Mewnich asked.

Milk shrugged lightly. “Because we, me, Namtan, and Emi, already know. View likes Mim more than just a friend. She’s just too oblivious to realize it.”

Mewnich nodded eagerly. “Oh! Right, I thought so too. When we hang out after class, View always takes extra care of Mim. And when she’s driving us, it’s like a car race except when Mim’s with us. Then it’s smooth and slow!”

Milk laughed, a bright, carefree sound that made everyone smile.

Love glanced at her, her own lips curving gently. She didn’t know why, but watching Milk laugh like that felt different warm, almost magnetic.

From the start, Love never really saw View as anything more than a sweet younger sister. Now, her thoughts drifted to her two “potential” wives Emi and Namtan but then Love found herself drawn to the woman who wasn’t even one of her potential wives.

Later That Morning

Milk finally decided to move forward with her plan. She was about to step out when she saw Love sitting in the living room, scrolling through her phone.

“I’m going now,” Milk said, adjusting her bag.

“Oh, Phi Milk, you’re leaving already?” Love looked up. “Can I join you? Everyone’s out, and I’ve got nothing to do.”

Milk blinked, a little surprised. “Are you sure? I’m just cleaning up and picking up a few things. I’ll be back later.”

“Yes, I’m sure,” Love said with a small smile as she stood up and walked toward her. “Why not?”

Milk hesitated for a second, then nodded. “If you’re sure, then let’s go.”

The drive to Milk’s apartment was quiet but comfortable. No tension, just the soft hum of the car and the city passing by outside.

When they arrived, Love stepped inside and looked around. The place was warm and cozy, simple but full of personality.

“Sorry for the mess,” Milk said as she opened the curtains. “It’s been ages since I’ve been here.”

Love chuckled softly. “That’s why we’re here, to clean.”

She wandered around, eyes landing on framed photos. One was of Milk’s family, another of Milk smiling with Film. Love picked it up, noticing how happy they both looked.

“I guess I should put that away,” Milk said when she noticed what Love was holding. Her tone was gentle, the smile on her lips tinged with sadness.

Love set the frame down carefully. Then her eyes moved to the wall where sketches and blueprints were pinned, architectural designs, a few anime drawings, and one more of Film’s portrait.

“You really did love her, Phi,” Love said quietly.

“I did,” Milk replied, her voice steady but soft. “But life has to move on.”

She began taking down the drawings one by one, folding them neatly.

Sensing the shift in mood, Love clapped her hands lightly. “Okay, let’s start cleaning before we both start crying.”

Milk laughed, a real, lighthearted laugh and nodded. Together, they began to clean the small apartment.

By noon, Milk ordered sushi for lunch. They ate by the balcony, talking about random things, work, travel, favorite food. Love found herself enjoying every small story Milk shared.

When the sky turned orange, they were finally done. Everything that once belonged to Film was neatly packed in boxes. Milk looked around the tidy space; it felt different lighter somehow.

All the things she could send away were boxed up, and the ones she couldn’t those memories she carried inside would fade with time.

Love watched quietly. She’s really moving on, she thought.

“I think we should head home now, Nong Love,” Milk said, her voice calm.

Love nodded. Together, they carried three boxes downbtwo for Film, one for Milk’s things to move into the mansion.

When they arrived back, the warm light of sunset washed over the driveway. There, they spotted View by her car, the hood popped open.

View’s voice echoed through the lot, frustrated. “You stupid car, why are you doing this to me now?!”

Love and Milk exchanged amused glances.

“Looks like someone’s having a bad day,” Milk murmured with a grin.

Back in Phuket – Morning

It was Namtan’s last morning in Phuket before heading back to Bangkok. She had a modeling gig the day after tomorrow.

Every time she met with Film to discuss the café-house project, she could still see it, the younger girl’s heart wasn’t fully free. Film was still in love with her twin.

That morning, they were scheduled to meet the architect and the engineer to review the plans, then survey the land to mark how much space the restaurant-café would take and how much would remain for the house Namtan planned to build.

When they met the architect that Film had contacted, Film was caught off guard by the news: she couldn’t freely use the design plan that Milk had gifted her.

They needed Milk’s permission first.

Film frowned. “But it was a gift,” she argued. “That means I own it.”

The architect shook her head. “I’m sorry, but the law says otherwise. Even if you ask other architects here in Phuket, they’ll tell you the same.”

Film fell quiet, worry flickering in her eyes. She wasn’t ready to talk to Milk, not yet. She feared that reaching out would only trouble Milk again, make her Milk burden, or worse, open old feelings she was trying to bury.

Namtan was about to offer, “I can talk to...”

But before she could finish, the architect said, “Don’t worry. I know who designed this. I’ll call her personally.”

Namtan raised a brow, noticing the delighted smile that spread on the architect’s face.

“You know the one who designed this?” she asked.

“Oh, yes,” the architect said, her cheeks tinting pink. “She’s my senior.”

Film stiffened. She quickly gathered the papers from the table. “I’m sorry, but I think we’ll look for another option.”

The architect blinked, startled by the sudden change. Namtan gave her a sympathetic smile before following Film out of the café.

the architect sighed, confused about what went wrong, and left to attend her next meeting.

Later that morning, when they met the engineer, the same issue came up, they still needed Milk’s permission to move forward.

The engineer, a woman in her fifties, mentioned that she had worked with Milk before. Her tone was all business, steady and professional.

“I can call her company to request the permission formally,” the engineer offered. “Or, if you prefer, I can recommend a new architect to handle the redesign.”

Film nodded. “Please do the first one. Thank you.”

Namtan stayed quiet, watching how Film tried to keep her composure. Her mind, however, was turning with questions.

When did my twin start knowing so many people?

Back in Bangkok

Milk and Love stepped out of the car and View spotted them

“Good, Phi, you’re here!” View said the moment she saw them. Without any warning, she grabbed Milk by the wrist and dragged her back to Milk’s car.

“What—hey!” Milk protested but still followed.

Once Milk sat in the driver’s seat, View slipped into the passenger side. Before Milk could say a word, the back door opened and Love climbed in.

“Go, Phi. Drive!” View ordered.

“Adventure, let’s go!” Love cheered from the back seat.

“Wait, wait—” Milk rolled her eyes and looked between the two of them. “Where the hell are we going?”

“To the university,” View said seriously. “We need to follow Mim’s date tonight.”

Milk blinked. “And why exactly would we do that?”

“Because Mim’s still a baby! We can’t just let her go on a date with some creep. What if something happens? What if he spikes her drink and then takes her somewhere and then...” View stopped herself, too horrified to finish.

From the backseat, Love giggled.

“Phi Love, don’t laugh! I’m being serious,” View whined. “Mim is our baby sister!”

Milk sighed and started the engine. “Fine. But if we get caught stalking them, you’re the one explaining, not me.”

They drove to the university just as Mim and Fourth were walking out of the gate together.

“Look at that, Phi!” View whispered dramatically, pointing. “He asked her on a date and he can’t even drive her to the restaurant?!”

Love giggled again, unable to stop herself.

“Phi Love, stop giggling!” View said, glaring at her through the rearview mirror.

Milk parked the car and sighed. “You two are unbelievable.”

Still, when Mim and Fourth headed down the street toward the restaurant, Milk found herself following behind with a resigned sigh, View in serious mode  and Love giggling.

At the Restaurant

They followed Mim and Fourth into the restaurant and quietly took a table nearby.

Mim noticed right away, but she hid her smile and pretended not to see them.

View, meanwhile, kept whispering sarcastic comments under her breath.
“Look at him, he can’t even pour water properly. Ugh.”

Love tried to stifle her giggles, clearly enjoying the show.
Milk just shook her head and stayed silent. Why did I agree to this again? she thought. She just wanted to go home.

After dinner, Fourth asked Mim if she wanted to get some ice cream. Naturally, the trio followed them again, this time to the park.

View tried her best to hide behind benches and trees but ended up making it more obvious. Love nearly burst out laughing. Milk and Love didn’t even bother hiding; they just walked behind them like tired bodyguards.

When Mim and Fourth sat on a park bench eating ice cream, View pouted.
“They’re eating ice cream in the park… that’s our thing!”

Milk sighed. “If you’d just confess already, she wouldn’t be on a date with someone else.”

“I don’t like her like that!” View argued, face red.

Love giggled softly.

Mim, pretending to be annoyed, threw little glances their way, secretly happy that View had followed her again. At least she’s not on a date herself, Mim thought.

Love and Milk whispered jokes to each other as they watched View sulk and mumble.

After finishing her ice cream, Mim said goodbye to Fourth and walked straight toward them. She hugged Milk first, then noticed the unfamiliar face beside her.

“Ah, this is Love,” Milk introduced with a smile.

Mim greeted Love politely, feeling secretly relieved that Love and View weren’t on a date after all.

“Can we go now?” Milk asked.

Love giggled and nodded.

Mim turned to View with a mock glare. “Why are you following me again on my date?”

“Because eating ice cream at the park was our thing, and you just did it with someone else!” View said, crossing her arms.

Mim softened, leaned closer, and kissed View on the cheek. “Sorry.”

View froze, blushing hard. Then she smiled shyly, took Mim’s hand, and followed after Milk and Love.

“They’re cute,” Love whispered to Milk.

“I know,” Milk sighed, shaking her head but smiling anyway.

They dropped Mim off at her house. Mim waved goodbye, still holding View’s hand until the last moment.

On the Way Home

The car was quiet for a bit, until View suddenly asked, “Phi Love, can we still have our date tomorrow?”

Love blinked, surprised. “hmmmm… but can I ask you something first? A hypothetical question.”

View nodded curiously.

“If I dated one of your sisters, what would you feel?”

View thought for a second. “It’s okay, Phi. I guess they’re better than me anyway.”

“Hey!” Milk said, glancing at her through the rearview mirror. “Don’t think like that.”

“Oh, not you, Phi Milk, you’re definitely not included,” View said, laughing.

Milk rolled her eyes. “Wow. Thanks.”

Love chuckled. “Alright, then what if Mim dated one of your sisters, like Phi Miw?”

“NO! No way! Phi Milk’s too old, just no!” View said instantly, glaring at Milk.

“What the hell, Nong?! It’s a hypothetical question!” Milk said, glaring back.

Love smiled. “Then that answers my question about the date.”

“What? What do you mean, Phi? I don’t get it,” View said, frowning.

“For heaven’s sake, View—” Milk groaned, gripping the steering wheel. “You like Mim. You’ve liked her since you were kids. Just admit it already, you moron.”

View froze, eyes wide. She slumped back into her seat and whispered to herself, “Do I…?”

Then, remembering Mim’s kiss on her cheek, she gasped.
“Oh my god. I like Mim!”

Love burst out laughing. Milk just sighed, eyes on the road. “Finally. Maybe now I can go home in peace,” she muttered.

Chapter Text

The Next Morning

All three, Emi, Milk, and Mewnich were eating breakfast when the front door suddenly opened.

“I’m home!” Namtan shouted, her voice echoing through the mansion.

Emi quickly stood up and went to greet her. A few moments later, both sisters walked back to the dining area.

“Welcome back, Phi Namtan!” Mewnich greeted with a happy wave.

“Welcome back,” Milk said casually, sipping her coffee.

Namtan froze for a second, eyes wide.

Emi smirked. “Yeah, get used to it. She even says good morning now and eats with us every morning and evening.”

Mewnich giggled while Milk rolled her eyes.

Milk tried to act unaffected, but inside, she was proud of herself. She was really trying to socialize more. Maybe, she thought, Film broke up with her because she’d been too distant, too focused on work and not enough on people. She didn’t want to make the same mistake again.

“Just get your food and eat, stop making fun of me,” Milk muttered, glaring at her sisters.

Emi grinned and went back to her seat while Namtan went to the kitchen to grab food. When she returned, she sat next to Milk.

After her first bite, Namtan felt her phone vibrate. She checked it, a message from Film.

 “Next month is the blessing of the lot.”

Namtan quickly typed a reply:

“Okay, noted.”

She slipped her phone back into her pocket and took another bite.

A few quiet minutes passed before she noticed Milk checking her own phone. Milk chuckled, smiling at whatever she was reading.

That smile… for some reason, it irritated Namtan. She didn’t even know why. Maybe it was the image of Film’s sad eyes still stuck in her mind and now her twin, the one who caused it, was laughing, happy, moving on like nothing happened.

Before she even realized what she was doing, her hand moved on its own.

SMACK!

Her palm landed right on the back of Milk’s head.

Everyone froze.

Even Namtan looked shocked, her hand flying to her mouth.

Milk blinked, stunned, and then slowly turned toward her twin.

“What the hell did you just do?” Milk asked, voice dangerously calm.

She stood up slowly, glaring. “I swear I’m trying to be a good sister, but this..”

She stepped forward, and Namtan instinctively stepped back.

Emi quickly grabbed Milk’s arm. “Phi Milk, no!”

“Let go of me, Nong Emi! I’m just gonna smack her back!” Milk said, struggling.

“I—I’m sorry! I don’t even know why I did that!” Namtan blurted out, panicking.

Just then, Love came downstairs, confused. “What’s going on here?”

Namtan turned instantly, forcing a smile. “Nothing! Let’s go eat outside!”

Before anyone could react, she grabbed Love’s hand and bolted out the door.

“Wait..!” Emi shouted, but it was too late. The sound of Namtan’s car starting echoed from outside.

Emi and Milk both ran toward the door, but View appeared from the hallway and blocked them.

“Phi Milk! Phi Emi! I need your help!”

Both sisters tried to push past her. “Move, View!”

“Why are you so strong?!” Milk said, struggling against her.

Emi groaned, “I agree, she’s like a wall!”

Meanwhile, Mewnich was laughing so hard she nearly spilled her drink.

Seeing that Love and Namtan were already gone, Milk sighed and went back to her seat. Emi followed, grumbling.

“Fine,” Milk muttered, grabbing her coffee. “Let’s just finish breakfast.”

Breakfast Run

Love was still in shock as Namtan dragged her out of the mansion and into the car. It took a few minutes of silence before she finally spoke.

“What’s going on, Phi? What happened back there?” Love asked, looking at her curiously.

“I needed to flee before Milk kills me,” Namtan said, eyes fixed on the road.

“Huh? Why would she kill you?” Love frowned. “Phi Miw might be aloof, but she’s not violent.”

“I… kinda smacked the back of her head,” Namtan admitted.

Love gasped. “You did not!”

“I did,” Namtan said, chuckling nervously.

Love covered her mouth. From all the stories she’d heard from Emi, View, even Namtan herself, Milk was terrifying when she was mad.

Before Love could say anything more, Namtan had already pulled over in front of a small restaurant near their place.

“Let’s have breakfast here,” Namtan said quickly, hopping out of the car. She ran to Love’s side and opened the door for her like a proper gentlewoman.

Love smiled, amused. “Thank you, Phi.”

They went inside, ordered food, and finally settled down. Love, still curious, leaned forward.

“So, why did you do that, Phi?” she asked softly.

Namtan sighed, slumping in her chair. “I don’t know. I wasn’t thinking. I just saw her laughing at her phone, looking all happy… and then my hand just moved.”

Love frowned. “Eh, but what’s so wrong about Phi Milk being happy? I think she deserves to smile more especially after what happened.”

Namtan’s eyes widened. “Wait. So you know what happened between her and Film?”

Love froze. “Ah..” She quickly covered her mouth, realizing she said too much.

“Oh, Nong, come on,” Namtan said, leaning closer. “Tell me. I want to know what really happened. I still think Film loves my twin, and maybe my smack was… a little bit valid.”

Love sighed, giving in. She told Namtan what she knew, how she and her best friend overheard the breakup, how Milk’s ex said harsh things that clearly hurt her.

Namtan fell silent, frowning in confusion. That doesn’t make sense, she thought. She had seen Film recently, and she could tell the woman still cared deeply for Milk.

After a moment, Love tilted her head. “So, how did you know Phi Mew ex, Phi?”

“Oh, from work,” Namtan replied, grateful for the change of topic. “We’re business partners in Phuket, for that restaurant project and the vacation house i'm planning to build there.”

She sighed again, pushing the thought aside. “Anyway, enough about them.”

Turning to Love, she smiled. “I was away for a few days… did you miss me?”

Love chuckled. “I did miss you, Phi.”

Namtan grinned, the tension melting away. “Good. Because I missed you too.”

And just like that, they forgot about the chaos at home. Their breakfast turned into laughter and easy conversation, like nothing else in the world mattered for a little while.

Back at the Mansion

Before Namtan smacked the back of her head, Milk had been busy laughing at her phone.

Bonnie was messaging her, asking for advice about a new project she just got. Milk gladly gave her input, then burst out laughing when Bonnie sent a meme, one that had Emi’s face edited on it.

Milk typed back, “Why do you even have a picture of my sister for this?”

She was still giggling when... smack!

That was when Namtan’s hand connected with the back of her head.

......

A few minutes later, after Namtan dragged Love away, the rest of them continued eating breakfast like nothing happened.

View was the one talking the most, fidgeting in her seat. “Phi Emi, Phi Milk, how do you even… confess to someone?” she asked shyly.

Emi tilted her head. “Why? Planning to confess to Mim already?”

View’s face turned red. “I just realized it now! That weird gut feeling I always had when she holds my hand? It’s because I like her!”

Milk didn’t look up from her food, quietly eating as Emi gave View advice. 

Then, with a small smirk, Milk said,

“You’re so confident asking Love out on a date, but completely clueless about Mim. What happened to all that courage?”

Everyone burst out laughing, View pouted.

Just then, Milk’s phone rang. She picked it up and put it on speaker, motioning for everyone to stay quiet.

It was someone from their company. Milk assumed her mom wanted her back at the office. But the voice on the other line said something else:

“Miss Milk, Mrs. Sombat from Sombat Firm would like your written permission to use the design you gave to Miss Mahawan.”

The moment Milk heard Mahawan, she froze. Her chair scraped loudly as she stood up, making everyone stare.

She quickly turned off the speaker and brought the phone to her ear. “Yes, I understand,” she said softly, already walking toward her room.

Mewnich blinked. “What just happened?”

View shrugged. “I don’t know.”

Emi sighed. “She looked… upset.”

......

Inside her room, Milk immediately opened her iPad and searched for the project file the firm mentioned. Her hand trembled a little as she scrolled through it.

She grabbed her stylus, signed the permission request, and sent it back to Sombat Firm.

Then she leaned back, staring at the name that stirred something inside her.

“Why are you using my design… Film?” she whispered to no one.

The quiet room felt heavier. She went to the small fridge near her desk, took out a bottle of wine, and poured herself a glass.

She didn’t want to think anymore.

So she turned on her TV, switched to anime, and let the sound fill the silence, one sip at a time, hoping it would blur out Film’s name from her mind.

Back in Phuket – Film’s Side

Film sat in her room, papers spread across the table.

The contract drafts, layout plans, and budget sheets for the restaurant were all neatly arranged but she couldn’t focus. Her eyes kept going to the rolled-up blueprint sitting at the edge of her desk.

It was Milk’s design.

She traced her finger along the edge of the tube, remembering how Milk smiled when she gave it to her.

“For you,” Milk had said, her tone soft and proud. “When you finally build that dream café of yours.”

Film shut her eyes.

That memory hurt more than she wanted to admit.

She tried to convince herself that it was okay, that she could still use it. It was a gift, after all. But the architect and engineer both said the same thing earlier: she needed Milk’s written permission.

And that meant Milk would know.

When her phone buzzed, Film’s heart jumped. It was an email from Sombat Firm. She opened it quickly.

Her breath caught when she saw the attached file — a digital signature. Milk’s signature.

No message. No comment. Just quiet, professional approval.

Film stared at it for a long time. It should have been relief she felt but instead, her chest ached.

It felt too cold, too final.

“She signed it right away,” Mrs Sombat message flashed on her phone next. “All clear now. We can proceed.”

Film smiled faintly at the screen, but it didn’t reach her eyes.

“She really moved on fast,” she whispered.

She leaned back on her chair and let her head rest against the wall.

The sound of the sea outside filled the silence of her apartment.

She reached for the blueprint again, carefully unrolling it on the table. The lines were clean and confident, like Milk’s personality. Strong, sure, and beautiful.

She touched the signature printed at the bottom corner: M. Kwong

Her throat tightened.

“Why does it still hurt seeing your name?”

Film sat there for a while, staring at the design.

Then she reached for her phone and opened her gallery, there were still photos of them together, smiling, laughing, hugging after long days. She hadn’t deleted a single one.

The screen blurred as her eyes watered.

“Maybe I’m the one who hasn’t moved on,” she admitted softly, a sad smile on her lips.

When her tears finally fell, Film didn’t bother wiping them. She just sat there, staring at Milk’s design, the one thing she could keep without feeling completely alone.

Three Days Later

Namtan looked down at her phone.

A message from Film flashed across the screen:

“Got the signed permission. The project can move forward now.”

She smiled faintly, then paused. Something felt off.

It had been three days since she last saw Milk.

Her smile faded. She glanced around the breakfast table. Everyone was there, Emi, Love, View, and Mewnich except her twin.

“Hey,” Namtan said slowly, “have any of you seen Milk today?”

Everyone shook their heads.

“What’s wrong, Phi?” Love asked, noticing the worry on Namtan’s face.

“I haven’t seen her since the day I… smacked her head.” Namtan winced, guilt washing over her. “You didn’t see her around, Nong Love?”

Love nodded. “No, Phi. But her car’s in the parking lot. I saw it this morning.”

Namtan stood abruptly. “Come with me.”

Love followed, and so did Emi, View, and Mewnich curiosity and concern drawing them in.

They stopped outside Milk’s room. Namtan knocked. No answer.

But faint Japanese voices played inside, an anime.

“Give me the spare key,” she told Emi.

Emi hurried to fetch it. When she unlocked the door, the sight inside made them all freeze.

Empty wine bottles were scattered across the floor. The curtains were still drawn, and the air smelled faintly of alcohol.

Milk was lying on the floor, curled up, asleep.

“Phi Milk!” Love rushed forward and knelt beside her. She checked her breathing, steady, soft.

Love exhaled in relief. “She’s okay. Just asleep.”

Milk stirred at the sound of her voice. Slowly, her eyes opened, unfocused and red.

When she saw Love, her lips trembled, tears slipping down her cheeks.

“Nong…” Milk whispered, voice slurred and weak. “I’m sorry. I’m trying to move on… just let it slide. Just this time.”

Love’s heart ached. She gently pulled Milk into her arms. “It’s okay, Phi. I’m here. You don’t have to hold it in anymore.”

The others watched silently, shock written on their faces.

It was the first time they’d seen Milk, the strong, composed one, so completely broken.

Namtan’s throat tightened with guilt. She wanted to say something, but no words came out.

A few minutes later, Milk drifted back to sleep, still holding on to Love.

Quietly, they lifted her onto the bed. Love stayed beside her, still gently rubbing her back.

“You all go,” Love said softly. “I’ll take care of her.”

Emi and Namtan exchanged a look. They couldn’t remember when Milk and Love had grown so close. But seeing how calmly Love handled her, they knew Milk was in good hands.

One by one, they left the room, closing the door behind them, leaving Love to watch over Milk as she slept.

While Milk slept, Love quietly looked around the room.

Empty bottles, crumpled tissues, and papers lay scattered everywhere, traces of three days of heartbreak.

She stood, sighed softly, and began to clean.

She gathered the bottles one by one, throwing them into a trash bag.

She folded the blanket left on the floor, opened the curtains, and let sunlight spill into the dim room.

The air slowly changed, lighter, warmer, alive again.

When everything looked neat, Love sat down beside the bed.

Milk was still asleep, her breathing calm but uneven, eyes still swollen from crying.

Love reached out, brushing a few strands of hair away from Milk’s face.

For a moment, she

just looked at her, this strong woman who carried so much inside but never asked for help.

Then, gently, Love leaned forward and kissed her forehead.

Her voice was soft, almost a whisper.

“Everything will be alright, Phi Miw.”

She stayed there for a while, watching over her, before quietly lying down beside her, not too close, just enough for Milk to feel she wasn’t alone.

Chapter Text

It took six months for Milk to finally stop crying in her sleep.

The turning point came one morning when she woke up in a hotel room, naked, her head pounding, the faint scent of alcohol still clinging to her skin. The sheets were tangled around her legs, and there was no one beside her.

She sat up slowly, trying to piece the night together, but her memory was a blur.
All she could recall was Emi’s plan for everyone to relax, a weekend getaway at a resort just outside Bangkok.

They’d all gone: Emi, View, Mim, Mewnich, June, and Love.
She remembered drinking with them at the bar, laughing, and the music pounding so loud she could barely hear her own voice.
Then everything went dark.

The only clues left behind were a gold earring that poke her and a piece of lace underwear half-hidden under the blanket.
Milk stared at them, sighing. “Great. Just great.”

She decided to get dressed and find the others.

Out in the hallway, she ran into Mewnich and June coming out of another room.
Mewnich froze when she saw her, eyes wide. June, however, was grinning ear to ear.

“You two,” Milk said, pointing at them suspiciously.

June’s grin grew wider, and she tilted her head just enough to show the faint mark on her neck.
“Good morning Phi,” she teased.

Mewnich’s face turned red instantly. She rushed over to Milk, whispering, “Phi, please don’t say anything to my sister.”

“What? Why not?” June pouted. “We had a good night, didn’t we? You even..”

Before June could finish, Mewnich covered her mouth, mortified.

Milk burst into laughter. “You two are unbelievable.”

When she finally caught her breath, she asked, “Hey, do either of you know what happened to me last night?”

June shook her head. “We left early, Phi. Someone got a little too drunk and… let’s just say, when people get tipsy, some of them get horny.”

“Right,” Milk said, rolling her eyes but smiling.

They headed down to the restaurant near the hotel, where Emi and Love were already having breakfast, laughing about something.
When Emi saw them, she waved energetically. Love smiled warmly and motioned for them to come join.

Milk sat down and wasted no time. “So… what happened last night?”

Emi grinned. “You were very drunk, Phi. You almost kissed someone on the dance floor. Love and I had to drag you back to your room.”

Love nodded, chuckling. “You were stubborn too. We made sure you were in bed before we left. Then we went back to the bar for one last drink and called it a night.”

Milk exhaled, leaning back in her chair. “So no mystery partner then?”

Emi blinked. “What partner?”

“Never mind,” Milk said quickly, her cheeks warming. She picked up Emi's coffee, hiding a faint, confused smile.

Still, as Love laughed beside her, Milk couldn’t help but glance at the small gold earring she had tucked into her pocket, wondering whose it really was.

Meanwhile, in Phuket

The construction of the restaurant and Namtan’s new house was well underway.
As much as possible, she kept things professional with Film. They spoke only when it came to work, shared the same meetings, and went separate ways afterward.

Still, even without trying, Namtan would often spot Film at the resort bar, laughing, flirting lightly with other women, a drink always in her hand.
But no matter how many smiles Film shared, she always left the bar alone.

Unlike her.

One quiet night, Namtan decided to take a walk by the beach to clear her mind.
The waves were calm, the wind soft against her skin. Then she saw Film sitting alone near the shoreline,  bottles beside her.

Three men were standing around her, clearly trying to flirt. Film wasn’t responding, just staring out to the sea. Namtan was about to walk away,

When one of them grabbed her wrist in frustration, Namtan stepped in immediately.

“Hey. Hands off.”
The men backed away after one sharp look from her and finally left.

Film sighed and took another drink. “You didn’t have to do that.”

Namtan sat down beside her, took the bottle from Film’s hand, and drank.

“Hey,” Film protested, looking offended.

“What’s this scene supposed to be? You, the heartbroken artist at the beach?” Namtan teased lightly.

Film exhaled, eyes fixed on the waves. “None of your business.”

“If this is still about your ex,” Namtan said, “why don’t you just call her? Maybe she’s still into you.”

She hesitated before adding silently to herself, I know she is. You both are just hurting.

Film shook her head. “It’s too late now. She’s better off without me.”

“You can tell me,” Namtan said softly.

After a long pause, Film finally told her the reason she ended things.

When she finished, Namtan frowned. “That’s a stupid reason, Film. You hurt the girl you love over that?” Namtan thought you hurt  my twin because of that

Film said with a sad laugh. “You don’t have the right to say that, but… you’re right. Still, I was right too. She’s better off without me.”

Neither of them said anything for a while. They just kept drinking, one bottle after another, until the alcohol Film brought was gone.

Somewhere between the laughter, the confessions, and the silence, the line blurred.

The next morning

Namtan woke up to the sound of waves outside the window.
Her head was heavy, her body sore. She blinked, adjusting to the light, and realized she wasn’t alone.

Film was beside her, asleep, her bare shoulder half-covered by the blanket.

For a long moment, Namtan just stared, memories from the night before flickering faintly in her mind.

They had crossed a line.

She exhaled quietly, half in disbelief, half in guilt.
This wasn’t supposed to happen, she thought. of her twin, guilt is clearly eating her

But when she looked at Film’s peaceful face, she couldn’t tell if it was regret, guilt, she felt… or something far more complicated.

Later that morning

Film stirred beside her, the sound of waves mixing with the faint creak of the bed.
Namtan froze, pretending to still be asleep, but when Film slowly sat up and rubbed her temples, she had no choice but to move too.

Film looked around, clearly disoriented, before her gaze landed on Namtan.
Their eyes met.

For a second, neither of them spoke. Only the sound of the ocean filled the silence.

Film was the first to break it.
“…Did we…?”

Namtan sighed softly and pulled the blanket higher around her. “I think we did.”

Film looked away, her voice small. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

“I know,” Namtan said quietly. “Me neither.”

She watched Film’s shoulders tense.

Film finally stood up, gathering her clothes from the floor.

“Let’s just… forget about last night,” she said, almost like she was convincing herself.

Namtan bit her lip. “If that’s what you want.”

Film gave a small nod, her back turned to her. “It’s better that way. You’re my bussiness partner, and I don’t want things to be weird.”

Namtan forced a smile, even though her chest ached. “Right. bussiness partner.” and your ex twin sister  Namtan thought

Film finished dressing, grabbed her phone, and left the room without another word.

When the door closed, the silence came rushing back.
Namtan stared at the empty side of the bed, still warm from where Film had been.

She's Milk ex and bussiness partner she repeated to herself, though deep inside she knew, it wouldn’t be that simple anymore.

Later that day – at the construction site

The sun was high, and the sound of hammering and shouting workers filled the air.
Namtan arrived first, clipboard in hand, trying to keep her mind focused on the schedules and design updates.

She told herself to act normal, just another day, just another meeting.

When Film arrived, dressed in her usual white button-down and dark slacks, Namtan felt her heart skip a beat. What the hell—she’s Milk’s ex. Your twin sister’s ex, you idiot. Stop it!

Film greeted the foreman, checked the plans, and spoke to the staff like nothing had happened.

Just work, Namtan reminded herself again.

But every time Film walked past her, she could still smell the faint scent of her perfume, the same one that lingered on the pillow this morning. I'm Fuck!!  Namtan thought

“Phi Namtan?” Film’s voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
She looked up quickly, realizing Film was waiting for her response.

“Sorry, what were you saying?” Namtan asked, forcing a smile.

Film sighed. “The supplier will deliver the tiles late. We might need to move the opening schedule.”

“Oh. Right.” Namtan nodded, flipping a page in her folder even though she wasn’t reading anything.

Film looked at her for a moment, brow slightly furrowed, then turned away. “You seem distracted today.”

“Do I?” Namtan laughed softly, avoiding her eyes. “Maybe just tired. I didn’t get much sleep.”

The words slipped before she could stop them.
Film froze for a second, then quietly said, “Yeah. Me neither.”

Their eyes met  just for a heartbeat before both quickly looked away.

The awkward air hung between them until one of the workers called for Film.
She excused herself, walking toward the scaffolding, leaving Namtan standing there trying to calm her racing pulse.

FUCK!FUCK FUCK! SHE'S YOUR TWIN SISTER EX!! Namtan thought

By the end of the day, both of them avoided being alone together.

When Film finally said goodbye and left the site, Namtan watched her go, the same thought echoing in her mind over and over: She’s so fucked up.

At the café near their campus

View sat at the corner table, nervously tapping her spoon against her iced coffee. She’d been staring at the door for ten minutes, waiting for Mim.

When Mim finally arrived, wearing her simple white blouse and ponytail, View forgot how to breathe for a moment.

“Sorry I’m late,” Mim said, smiling. “Traffic was bad.”

“It’s okay,” View replied quickly, standing up a little too fast and bumping her knee on the table. “Ouch! ah, I mean, it’s fine!”

Mim giggled. “You’re always so clumsy, Phi View.”

“I’m not clumsy,” View muttered, rubbing her knee. “Just… nervous.”

“Nervous?” Mim tilted her head. “Why? It’s just me.”

That’s the problem, View thought but didn’t say it.

They ordered food, and the conversation flowed easily, small jokes, stories from class, gossip about friends. Every time Mim laughed, View’s chest felt lighter.

When their food arrived, Mim leaned over and said softly, “You’ve been smiling a lot lately. Is something good happening?”

View almost choked on her drink. “Wha..!!me? No! Nothing’s happening!”

“Really?” Mim teased. “Because the last time you followed me on a date, you were grumpy the whole night.”

“That’s because that guy wasn’t good enough for you!” View blurted out.

Mim blinked, surprised, then smiled shyly. “And you are?”

View froze, eyes wide, face instantly turning red.
“I—uh—what do you mean?”

Mim laughed softly. “I’m just teasing.” She reached across the table and gently poked View’s hand. “You’re cute when you panic.”

View wanted to say something, but her brain was empty.
So instead, she just smiled and said, “You shouldn’t tease me like that. One day I might think you’re serious.”

Mim smiled again, this time gentler. “Maybe I am.”

The rest of their lunch was quiet but warm.
When they left the café, Mim looped her arm around View’s, pretending it was nothing.

View looked down at their hands and whispered to herself, I’m doomed.

At the construction site (Bangkok)

The sound of metal clanging mixed with voices shouting instructions.
In the middle of it all, Emi and Bonnie were at it again—arguing loudly in front of the workers.

“I told you already, this wall can’t move two meters! The structural load will be uneven!” Emi snapped, holding the blueprint tightly.

Bonnie crossed her arms, refusing to back down. “And I told you, the client doesn’t care about your structural load! They want the dining area to feel open not like a cave!”

A few workers nearby exchanged looks and shook their heads. It wasn’t the first time those two fought like this. It probably wouldn’t be the last.

“Open space doesn’t mean breaking the law of physics, Bonnie!” Emi said, glaring.

“Then find a way to make your physics prettier!” Bonnie shot back.

The architect, tired of hearing them every day, finally walked over with a sigh.
“Alright, alright, stop it, both of you,” he said. “We’ll compromise. We’ll move the wall one meter instead of two. It keeps the support stable and gives the space a wider flow. Deal?”

Bonnie and Emi glared at each other before muttering at the same time,
“Fine.”

The architect sighed again. “I swear, you two fight like a married couple.”

Both of them turned red and shouted, “We are not!”

The workers laughed quietly behind them.

Later that evening

The site was finally quiet. Most of the team had gone home.
Emi sat at her desk, rubbing her temples before pulling out her phone.

She hesitated for a second, then smiled softly and started typing:

“Are you free tonight? Let’s have dinner. – Emi”

She was still smiling at her phone when Bonnie walked past her desk.
Bonnie stopped mid-step, noticing the gentle look on Emi’s face. She leaned a little, curious.

When she saw Love’s name on the screen, something twisted in her chest.

She didn’t even think, she just grabbed Emi’s phone and hit video call.

“Yah! Bonnie! Give that back!” Emi shouted, standing up and trying to reach her phone.

Love’s face appeared on screen, smiling wide.
“Bonnie? Oh—hey! I didn’t expect you” Love said, laughing when she noticed Emi in the background trying to grab her phone.

“I miss you, Love! Can I join your date with Emi tonight?” Bonnie said, grinning wickedly.

“Oh no, you don’t! I’ve had enough of you for today, brat!” Emi groaned.

But Love just laughed and said, “Sure! The more, the merrier.”

Bonnie smiled victoriously and handed Emi her phone back.
“See you later!” she said before skipping out.

Emi watched her leave, sighed heavily, and muttered under her breath,
“She just ruined my date…”

Then she sat back in her chair, groaned, and punched the air in frustration.

When the call ended, Love lowered her phone and turned to the person sitting beside her on the couch.

“I’ll have dinner with Emi and Bonnie,” she said, still smiling from the call. “Want to join?”

Milk, eyes fixed on the TV, didn’t even look up. She was too focused trying to read the anime subtitles she had convinced Love to watch with her.
“Can I say no to that?” she muttered.

Love laughed softly. “You could try.”

Milk turned her head, frowning. “Can you just say your tummy hurts or something? We can order takeout, stay here, and let those two have their dinner and fight at the same time.”

Love smiled, the kind of smile that always made it impossible for Milk to win an argument. They had grown close these past months, so close that Milk couldn’t even remember when Love started feeling like home.

“Not this time, Phi Miw,” Love said. “I’ve already turned down too many of Emi’s invites because of you. I’ve lost count. And I’m not about to let Bonnie whine about me backing out again.”

Milk sighed, giving up on the idea. “Fine. Go. I’ll just go to my room and sleep.”

Love crossed her arms, raising a brow. “No, Phi Miw. You won’t sleep. You’ll end up at the bar again and get drunk.”

“I haven’t touched a drink since the resort,” Milk said defensively. She paused, her mind flashing back to that morning — waking up naked, with no one around, just an earring and her panties left behind.

Love gave her a playful glare. “Still, you’re joining. Whether you like it or not.”

Milk pouted, dragging her feet as she stood. “You’re too bossy.”

Love just grinned, watching as Milk disappeared down the hall to change.

At the restaurant, Emi made sure to sit beside Love, pretending not to notice Bonnie across the table. She told herself she was here to enjoy dinner not to fight but a small part of her still wished Bonnie hadn’t tagged along.

Milk sat beside Bonnie, listening as the interior designer talked excitedly about her latest anime obsession.
“You should watch this one, Phi Milk ” Bonnie said, eyes sparkling. “It’s about two architects who well accidentally fall in love.”

Milk chuckled. “So… work and heartbreak? Sounds familiar.”

Bonnie laughed, clearly enjoying how easily Milk responded.

When the waiter came to take their order, Milk was about to speak when her eyes caught the wine list. “A glass of red, please..”

Before she could finish, Love cut in. “No alcohol for her.”

Milk turned to her with an exaggerated frown. “Nong, just one glass. Just one.”

Love shook her head firmly. “You promised.”

Milk sighed, defeated, and closed the menu. “Fine. I’ll have water then.”

The waiter nodded and left, and Bonnie giggled under her breath. “Wow, Phi Milk, you got grounded.”

“Tell me about it,” Milk muttered, but she was smiling too.

Emi watched the three of them interact Milk teasing, Love scolding gently, Bonnie laughing in between and she felt something tight in her chest.

She wanted to be jealous of the closeness between her sister and Love, but she couldn’t. She knew what Milk had been through these past months, how broken she’d been, and how Love had been the one quietly holding her together.

So Emi just smiled,  listening to their chatter as the night stretched warm and easy, filled with soft laughter, playful teasing.

Sunday

Milk drove home to have dinner with her mother and catch up. She was about to knock on her mother’s office door when she paused voices came from inside.

Her mother, Lingling, was talking to Aom, Love’s mother.

“I think you’ll have to prepare that fifty million baht soon, Aom,” Lingling said, her tone half teasing. “Your daughter still hasn’t chosen her wife. Emi and Namtan are clearly courting her already.”

Aom laughed softly. “Just give her time, Ling. Love’s still getting to know your daughters. There’s no deadline on the deal.”

The two mothers burst into laughter.

That’s when Milk pushed the door open. Both women jumped in surprise.

“What are you two talking about, Mom? Aunt Aom?” Milk asked, smirking. “Should I call Mae and Aunt Tina and tell them about this little agreement? Is that why I’m suddenly living at Emi’s house?”

The color drained from both mothers’ faces.

Minutes later, Milk leaned on the office door frame, arms crossed, while the two older women nervously explained, haltingly about a marriage bet they made long ago between their families.

“You can’t tell anyone about this, Milk,” Lingling said firmly. “Especially your sisters.”

Milk’s smirk deepened. “Oh, don’t worry. I won’t tell anyone... yet.”

She turned around and walked toward the door.

“I’ll skip dinner tonight, Mom. Tell Mae I have something to take care of.”

When the sound of Milk’s car faded down the driveway, Aom exhaled.

“Ling, should we tell Love what just happened?”

“No,” Lingling said, rubbing her temple. “You saw that smirk, Milk’s planning something.”

“What if she bullies my daughter?” Aom asked, panicking.

“We can’t do anything now,” Lingling sighed. “If we interfere, Milk will tell our wives. Let’s just… pray she goes easy on Love.”

When Milk got home that evening, she was ready to confront Love to ask if it was true she had agreed to choose one of them as her wife.

But before she could even knock on Love’s door, Mewnich stepped out of her room.

“Oh, Phi Milk! Love’s not home,” Mewnich said. “She and Emi went on a date.”

Milk froze. Her expression softened for a second before she forced a small smile.

“Alright, Nong. Thanks,” she said, turning toward her own room.

But before she could take a step, Mewnich called out again.

“Wait, Phi Milk! Can I ask you something?”

“What is it, Nong?” Milk asked.

Mewnich held out a small velvet box and sighed.

“Have you seen this earring around the house? It’s my favorite pair, but one piece is missing. I think Phi Love might’ve borrowed it again without telling me… and maybe lost it this time.”

Milk’s eyes widened.

She recognized it instantly. It was the same earring the girl from the resort had left behind that morning.

Her heart dropped.

It was Love, Milk thought.

Chapter Text

Later that night

Emi and Love arrived at the mansion, chatting softly as they walked toward the door.

Just then, a notification popped up on Love’s phone. She stopped mid-step and glanced at the screen.

It was a new post from Bonnie’s Instagram. Without hesitation, Love double-tapped to like it.

Curious, Emi leaned in to see and her eyes widened.

Bonnie was smiling at the camera, a little too confidently, lips curved in a seductive way that made Emi look away quickly.

Why am I even thinking that brat looks beautiful? she thought, shaking her head.

By the time they stepped inside the mansion, the thought had already drifted away. Emi’s focus shifted back to Love, how radiant she looked, how her laughter lingered from dinner.

It had been a real date for once, just the two of them. No work interruptions, no overlapping schedules, and no Milk in between. Emi couldn’t help the grin stretching across her face.

Inside, Mewnich was the first to greet them.

“Phi Love, Phi Milk was looking for you earlier,” she said brightly.

Emi felt that familiar twist of jealousy again, the same one that always appeared whenever Milk’s name came up around Love.

But it vanished in an instant when Love turned to her, leaned in, and placed a soft kiss on her cheek.

“Thanks for tonight, Emi. It was really nice,” Love said with a warm smile before heading upstairs.

Emi stood frozen in the foyer, fingers brushing her cheek, a small, giddy smile spreading across her face as she watched Love disappear up the stairs.

The Balcony

Love was about to go straight to her room when she noticed the faint light glowing from the balcony.

She paused.

Mewnich said Phi Miw was looking for me earlier…

She bit her lip, debating whether to go. But no matter how hard she tried to resist, Milk always seemed to have this quiet pull on her, a gravity she couldn’t ignore.

Before she realized it, her feet were already moving.

When she stepped outside, the night breeze brushed softly against her face. Milk was there, sitting on the sofa, looking up at the stars with a calm expression.

“Phi Miw,” Love called softly. “Mewnich told me you were looking for me.”

Milk turned her head and met her gaze, then patted the seat beside her. “Come, sit.”

Love hesitated for a moment but moved closer, sitting beside her.

“Are you drinking again, Phi?” she asked carefully.

Milk chuckled and shook her head. “No, not tonight.”

Then she reached into her pocket and said quietly, “I have something to return.”

Love frowned in curiosity. “Return?”

Milk extended her hand. “Give me yours.”

Love hesitated but followed. Milk gently placed something cold on her palm. When Love opened her hand, her heart skipped, a single gold earring glimmered under the balcony light.

Love’s breath caught. Her fingers trembled slightly.

She forced a smile, pretending to stay calm. “Why are you giving this to me, Phi Miw? It’s not mine.”

“I know,” Milk said, voice steady. “It’s Mewnich’s. She’s been looking for it. I just happened to find the missing piece.”

Love’s throat went dry. “I… I see.” She tried to stand, desperate to escape the tightening in her chest. “I’m sleepy, Phi Miw. I think I’ll go rest now..”

But Milk’s hand caught her wrist, stopping her.

“Don’t, Nong Love,” she said softly. “Don’t walk away.”

Love froze. She didn’t know what to say, she didn’t even know what really happened that night.

All she remembered was drinking at the bar with Emi after putting Milk to bed. The alcohol had hit her harder than she expected, she was a lightweight, and she’d only wanted to unwind.

She remembered stumbling back to her room, reaching for a bottle of water from the mini fridge... and then—

Nothing.

Just blankness.

She woke up the next morning sore, naked, and lying beside Milk.

Her first instinct had been panic, she dressed quickly, not even searching for her missing underwear, and ran to her room.

That whole day, she kept whispering to herself:

“Erase it. Erase everything. Nothing happened.”

But her body remembered.

When she saw Milk again that morning, she acted completely innocent, silently promising herself she’d keep what happened a secret until the day she died.

Back in the present, Milk watched her in silence, eyes sharp but calm, as if waiting for a truth Love couldn’t give.

When Love still didn’t speak, Milk leaned back with a small smirk. “Fine. If you don’t want to talk about it, I’ll drop it.”

She paused, then added with a teasing tone, “But make sure to put me on your list, the one where you’ll choose who becomes your wife.”

Love’s head snapped up. “What? How did you know about that?”

Milk only smiled, enjoying the shock on Love’s face. Then she leaned in, close enough that Love could smell the faint scent of jasmine from her hair and pressed a quick, soft kiss to her lips.

“I think I’m clearly in the lead,” Milk whispered, her smirk deepening.

Then she stood and walked away, leaving Love frozen on the balcony, her heart pounding wildly in her chest.

Meanwhile, in Emi’s room

Emi had just finished her late night routine. After turning off the bathroom light, she slipped under the blanket and let out a quiet sigh.

Her mind wandered back to earlier that evening to that photo Bonnie had posted. That smile, that teasing look.

“No,” she muttered to herself, shaking her head. “I can’t think of her like that. She’s a brat.”

But her hand still reached for her phone. Almost on instinct, she opened Instagram, searched for Love’s profile, and tapped on the list of people Love followed.

There it was, Bonnie.

She opened her page and began scrolling. Post after post, photo after photo. Some were her design sketches, others random selfies or funny memes. Without realizing it, Emi’s lips curved into a small smile, especially at the silly captions.

“Brat,” Emi whispered again but this time, her voice was softer.

Finally, she set her phone on the nightstand, turned off the lamp, and pulled the blanket closer.

Before sleep claimed her, she admitted quietly to herself:

“Okay… maybe the brat is beautiful.”

Then she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

what happen that night

Mewnich spotted a bottle of soju in the store that looked exactly like a bottle of water. 

Grinning at the perfect prank opportunity, she bought it and slipped it into her sister Love's mini fridge in her hotel room.

That night, after Emi and Love called it a day, Love pretending she wasn't already tipsy, let Emi walk her to her door. Once inside, Love stumbled around, her throat parched. She made it to the mini fridge, grabbed the bottle, and chugged nearly half of it, thinking it was water. The alcohol hit her like a wave, and she was fully drunk in seconds.

"Hot..." Love muttered, loosening her shirt as she tried to head for bed. But in her hazy state, she wandered right out of her room instead.

Out in the hallway, she spotted Milk stumbling out of her own room, clearly intoxicated too.

"Phi, where are you going?" Love mumbled.

Milk locked eyes with her, grabbed her wrist, and pulled her inside her room. The door clicked shut behind them.

Milk kissed her fiercely, and Love kissed back just as hungrily.

"I'm feeling so hot," Love gasped, fumbling with her shirt buttons.

"You are hot, miss," Milk whispered, her voice low and teasing.

"I know, Phi," Love replied with a drunken

giggle.

They kept kissing, hands exploring every curve and inch of skin. When Milk paused to ask if she was okay to continue, Love nodded eagerly. And that's how Love lost her virginity.

Chapter Text

Love barely slept. Her mind kept replaying last night, Milk’s teasing smirk, that confident voice saying she would court her.

The same girl Love had spent months helping heal was now the one turning her heart inside out.

Love shook her head as she stood in front of the mirror. No, she thought, nothing happened that night. Nothing.

Determined to make her day feel normal, she left her room.

But right outside, Milk was already waiting, smiling, calm, and heartbreakingly beautiful under the morning light.

“Morning, Nong Love,” Milk said softly.

Love froze, her stomach tightening. She didn’t reply, just tried to walk past.

Milk frowned and gently grabbed her hand. “Hey… what’s wrong? I just said good morning.”

Love turned to her, eyes red and tired. “Phi, can you stop playing with me? I don’t like it.”

Milk’s expression softened. “Who said I’m playing with you?” she whispered, cupping Love’s face.

For a second, neither of them moved, only the faint sound of their breathing and the quiet hum of morning between them.

Then, the click of a door.

Mewnich stepped out of her room, yawning.

In a heartbeat, Milk pulled her hand back, and Love stepped away.

“Morning, Phi Love, Phi Milk,” Mewnich said, looking curiously between them.

“Morning, Nong Mew,” Milk replied, forcing a smile before walking downstairs.

Love watched her go, blinking back tears.

Nothing about this morning felt normal anymore.

.............

Bonnie smiled at Emi, slow, confident, teasing.

“Why are you looking at me, Phi? You like what you see?” she said, voice low and mischievous as she stepped closer.

Emi froze. Her eyes dropped to Bonnie’s lips.

Bonnie tilted her head, the smirk never leaving her face.

“Do you want to kiss me, Phi?” she whispered, her face now just inches away.

And then

Emi jolted awake.

Her heart was pounding, her skin warm. “What the..” she mumbled, covering her face with a pillow.

She sat up, the dream still vivid, Bonnie’s eyes, that smile, that voice.

“No. No, no, no. That’s not happening. She’s a brat!” Emi groaned, dragging herself to the shower.

Under the cold spray, she tried to shake off the heat pooling in her stomach and the dampness in her underwear that betrayed her.

By the time she stepped out of her room, her hair still damp, she was determined to act normal.

Until she saw her.

Bonnie sitting at the dining table with View, eating breakfast, cheerful as ever.

“Morning, Phi!” View greeted, smiling.

“Mor—” Bonnie started, flashing a grin.

Emi cut her off. “No. No good mornings when you’re around,” she said, glaring as she stomped toward the kitchen.

Bonnie blinked, then pouted dramatically. “Jerk. I haven’t even done anything to her yet,” she muttered, then called out louder, “I’m not here for you, jerk! I’m here for Phi Milk!”

Emi shut her eyes, trying not to react but the image from her dream flashed in her mind again, and she could feel her cheeks heating.

“Stop it, Emi,” she whispered to herself. “You like Nong Love. Nong Love. Not that brat.”

.............

The dining area buzzed with chatter and the rich aroma of coffee, but Milk sat quietly, stirring her cup as if nothing in the world could disturb her.

Her face remained calm, her movements steady, the picture of her usual cool composure.The dining area was filled with chatter and the smell of coffee, but Milk sat quietly, stirring her cup like nothing in the world could bother her.

Milk's face calm, her movements steady, her usual cool self.

Emi, on the other hand, was practically glowing. As soon as she saw Love enter, she stood up and hurried to the kitchen counter.

“Good morning, Nong Love! I made you breakfast,” she said in a loud, cheerful voice that made everyone look. “Last night was so nice, right?”

Love blinked, caught off guard by the sudden attention. Her eyes instinctively went to Milk, searching for a reaction.

But Milk didn’t even flinch. She just sipped her coffee, eyes on her plate, as if Emi’s words were air.

That was all it took. Love felt something sink in her chest.

She’s really just playing with me, she thought bitterly, forcing a polite smile at Emi.

Emi sat beside Love, overly sweet and attentive, pushing food closer, pouring her juice, even wiping a small crumb from her cheek. She made sure everyone noticed, especially Bonnie.

Bonnie sat quietly, looking at her tablet as she waited for Milk to finish her breakfast before bothering the older girl. She calmly scrolled while eating, then glanced up and noticed that Milk seemed to have eaten enough.

Bonnie turned her tablet toward Milk. “Phi, this is the project I mentioned. I already made the first layout.”

Milk leaned closer to see. “Oh, this is good, Nong,” she said, smiling.

View, who was watching the exchange, gasped. “Wait, Phi! You’re going back to work?”

“Yes,” Milk said, looking up. “I texted Mom last night that I wanted to come back. I guess Nong Bonnie here is my answer, my next project will be with her.”

She smiled at Bonnie again, a soft, easy smile that made Love’s chest twist.

Love’s fingers tightened around her utensil. She said she’d court me, Love thought, but she’s smiling at someone else.

Emi didn’t like the smile Milk was giving Bonnie. Stop flirting so early in the morning, Phi, she thought irritably.

Then Emi noticed the tension in Love’s hand and quickly reached out to take it. “Hey, what’s wrong?” she asked gently.

“Nothing, Phi,” Love said, forcing a small laugh. “Just… hungry.”

But she couldn’t stop stealing glances at Milk, who was still talking quietly with Bonnie, calm, professional, and untouchable.

Then, the front door opened.

“I’m back!”

All heads turned as Namtan entered, smiling, a paper bag in her hand.

“Phi!” View exclaimed. “You brought gifts?”

“Yes,” Namtan said proudly. She walked straight to Milk and handed her the bag. “For my favorite twin.”

“What about mine?” View pouted.

“Next time, Nong,” Namtan said, patting her sister’s head.

Milk raised a brow. “Favorite twin? What did you do?”

She gave Namtan a look. “And I’m your only twin.”

Namtan laughed, raising her hands like she was innocent. “I did nothing!”

(Except sleep with your ex, she thought guiltily.)

Milk squinted at her suspiciously but shrugged. “Fine. Thanks.”

Then she turned back to Bonnie, resuming their talk about project details leaving Love quietly staring into her untouched plate.

Love excused herself from the dining table as soon as she finished breakfast.

She couldn’t stand it, Milk’s calm, almost careless attitude, pretending like nothing was wrong.

The older girl chatted casually with Bonnie and Namtan, smiling as if last night never happened.

Love’s chest ached just watching her.

Before she could reach the stairs, Emi called out softly,

“Love, are you free later? We don’t have work today… maybe we can have lunch out?”

Love forced a smile and nodded. “Sure, Phi.”

Then she turned quickly and went upstairs before her emotions could show.

Inside her room, Love paced back and forth, fuming.

Why was Milk acting like this? So calm. So unaffected.

Was everything a joke to her?

She clenched her fists, trying to push away the anger.

Maybe it was because Milk already knew, knew what happened between them,

that Milk already took something important from her.

A knock interrupted her thoughts.

“Coming,” she sighed, thinking it was Emi asking about their lunch plans.

But when she opened the door, it was Milk standing there.

Love’s eyes narrowed, and she immediately tried to close the door.

But Milk caught it effortlessly, pushing her way in.

“What are you doing here, Phi? Don’t you have work with Bonnie to discuss?” Love said sharply.

Milk smiled, leaning against the wall. “Are you jealous, Nong?”

Love glared at her. “I’m not.”

Milk chuckled, stepping closer. “But I am.”

That stopped Love cold. Her heartbeat quickened as Milk’s presence filled the room.

“W-what are you talking about?”

“I’m jealous,” Milk repeated, her tone low. “But should I show it to everyone? Just a warning, Nong, I don’t like being jealous.”

Love took a step back, her pulse racing.

“Stop, Phi. I don’t believe you. When? When did you start having feelings for me?”

Milk smiled softly. “I don’t know when or how… I just woke up one day wanting to see you, talk to you. I realized I didn’t like the thought of you and Emi going out together. Didn’t you ever notice how I always found ways to tag along?”

Love froze. She did remember, all those little moments when Milk insisted on coming, even for small things.

At the time, she thought it was friendship or the older girl moving on, But now…

And then it hit her, the resort.

Waking up beside Milk. Naked.

Her face burned red.

“So… what? You like me now because you knew you had me?” Love blurted out.

“No! God, no.” Milk shook her head. “I only realized you were the girl that night last night when Mewnich mentioned her missing earring. You left one in my room.”

She stepped closer, taking Love’s hand and placing it over her chest.

“Feel it,” Milk whispered. “My heart beats faster because of you. That night at the balcony, I acted impulsively, but everything I said was true. I want to be with you, if you’ll have me.”

Love’s heart pounded hard under her fingertips.

She looked into Milk’s eyes and saw no lie there, just warmth, sincerity, and longing.

She shook her head slightly. “No… this can’t happen. You know how long Emi and Namtan have been courting me. Even if Namtan isn’t serious, they’re still waiting for my answer and then you suddenly kiss me, confess, and expect me to say yes?”

Milk smiled and nodded. “Pretty much.”

“Don’t smile,” Love muttered and thought “It makes my heart go crazy.”

Then Milk pouted.

“Don’t pout either,” Love said again, looking away and thought again “You’ll make me want to kiss you.”

Milk laughed softly. “What do you want me to do then? To make you my girlfriend?”

Love crossed her arms. “Make your sisters fall for someone else. Let them have girlfriends first, then we can be one.”

Milk stomped her foot like a frustrated child, making Love almost laugh.

“Nam is a player, and Emi is seriously into you! How am I supposed to do that?” Milk whined.

Love bit her lower lip, trying to hide her smile.

“That’s my condition, Phi Miw. Until then, I won’t be your girlfriend. And I’m not asking them to stop courting me either.”

Milk’s expression turned mischievous. “But I’m jealous, Nong. I don’t like them touching you or getting close. Maybe I should just lock them up somewhere so you’ll only look at me.”

“Phi Miw, I’m serious,” Love warned.

“But I’m serious too,” Milk said, her voice soft but her eyes burning with affection.

Love shook her head, about to say something, when a knock interrupted them.

“Nong Love, it’s me — Emi,” came the voice from outside.

Both turned toward the door.

And just like that, the jealousy Love was searching for earlier finally showed.

Milk’s eyes darkened, glaring at the door. Her hand tightened around Love’s hand before pulling her closer.

Then, without a word, Milk kissed her.

Love’s heart skipped, pounding so fast she could barely think.

She’s really jealous, Love realized as Milk’s lips pressed against hers.

Milk stopped only for a breath, whispering,

“Kiss me back.”

And Love without thinking did.

Meanwhile, outside, Emi frowned.

“Nong Love?” she called again, puzzled why there was no answer.

Inside, Milk pulled away only when she heard footsteps walking away from the door.

Both of them were panting, faces inches apart.

“You’re not going, Nong,” Milk said between breaths.

Love caught her breath, shaking her head.

“I can’t. I already said yes.”

Milk groaned softly and hugged her, burying her face against Love’s shoulder.

Love bit her lip to stop herself from laughing at the older girl’s antics.

“When did you become this spoiled, Phi Miw?” Love asked, smiling.

“Since the day you made me realize how deep my feelings are for you,” Milk said, still hugging her tightly. Then she looked up, eyes soft and teasing. “So… you’re not going, right?”

Love sighed, pretending to be unaffected.

“I have nothing to do anyway. Besides, you’ve got that meeting with Bonnie.”

“Why are you jealous of our daughter?” Milk grinned. “Bonnie’s our daughter, you know that.”

Love blinked. “I’m not jealous! And since when did I become the mother of my best friend?”

“Namtan’s daughter is Mim,” Milk explained dramatically, “and I wanted one too. So I adopted Bonnie. Since I can’t be your girlfriend right now, I’ll be your wife and Bonnie’s our daughter.”

Love couldn’t help but laugh.

“That’s the most messed-up logic I’ve ever heard, Phi Miw.”

Milk pouted. “Still, you’re not going.”

Love sighed again, picked up her phone, and typed a message.

Sorry, Phi. I suddenly feel a stomach ache. I don’t think I can eat lunch with you today.

Milk peeked at the message and muttered,

“You should’ve said ‘no lunch with her ever.’”

Love chuckled.

“Phi Miw, why are you like this? I’m not used to seeing you this… possessive.”

“Then get used to it,” Milk said softly. “This is how I am when I like someone.”

She wanted to say love, but she knew it was too soon. Just months ago, she’d still been crying over her ex.

Love’s phone buzzed again.

Do you need anything, Nong? Emi texted.

Nothing, Phi. I’m just going to sleep all day, Love replied.

She looked at Milk and sighed.

“Now I’m lying to Phi Emi because of you. And I’m stuck in my room the whole day while you’re off working.”

“About that…” Milk said, pulling out her phone and calling Bonnie.

Bonnie was just heading to her car when she picked up.

“Oh, Phi Milk! I thought we were meeting at your office later?”

“Sorry, Nong,” Milk said dramatically. “I suddenly have a headache. Can we meet tomorrow morning instead?”

Bonnie chuckled, remembering the scene from breakfast, how Love had been glaring daggers at her and Milk.

“You don’t have to lie, Phi. If you have plans with Love today, I understand.”

“You really understand me, my daughter,” Milk teased.

“Oh, I’m your daughter now? Then I accept, Mami,” Bonnie joked, laughing.

From the bed, Love groaned.

“You two are insane.”

“I’m MilkLove’s number-one fan!” Bonnie said before ending the call, still laughing.

She slid into her car, whispering to herself,

“Emi’s heading for a heartache…”

Bonnie sighed, feeling a pang of sympathy. Maybe I’ll give her a little slack at work, she thought.

Back in Love’s room, Milk laughed while Love just shook her head and sat back on her bed, opening her laptop.

“Let’s watch anime again, Nong,” Milk said, sitting beside her.

“No. We’re watching a horror film.”

“I don’t like horror,” Milk pouted, “but if I’m allowed to scream and hug you, then I’m in.”

Love rolled her eyes but smiled as she scrolled through the movie options.

The room was filled with a quiet warmth and something deeper that Love wasn’t ready to name just yet.

Chapter Text

Days passed, and Milk still had no idea how to get her sisters a girlfriend so she could officially claim Love as her own.

Namtan was always out attending some baking or cooking class in Bangkok, then disappearing afterward without saying where she was going. Milk tried asking once, but Namtan only smiled mysteriously before slipping away again.

Emi, meanwhile, was buried in work… but somehow always had time for Love.
Dinner invitations.
Late-night tea before bedtime.
Random little gestures.

All of it drove Milk crazy.

Whenever Emi got too close, Milk would end up ignoring Love out of childish jealousy. And Love would have to coax her back, bringing her snacks, watching the stars together on the balcony, or sneaking into each other’s rooms at night to talk until one of them fell asleep.

But still…
Every time Milk hinted or asked again, Love would gently remind her:

“I’m still not your girlfriend, Phi Miw.”

Saturday

Milk finally had a day off. When she woke up beside Love because Milk had “accidentally” fallen asleep in Love’s room again, she immediately announced:

“Let’s stay inside the mansion today. I’m tired. So many site visits this week.”

Love stretched, smiling teasingly.“Eh? But we didn’t even plan to hang out together today.”

Milk froze… then pouted, looking away dramatically and just like that, she stopped talking again.

Love laughed softly. She already knew exactly what this mood was her not-quite-girlfriend was sulking.

...............

Milk walked out of Love’s room and stayed in her own almost all morning. Eventually, feeling bored, she went to the living room, the television was on, but she completely ignored it.
She kept her eyes glued to her phone, pretending she didn’t care.
Pretending she wasn’t waiting for Love.

She didn’t have to wait long.

Love entered the room, saw her pouting, and couldn’t help but giggle. She walked over, sat right beside Milk on the couch, and quietly slipped her hand under the throw pillow, where Milk’s hand was resting.

Milk stiffened, trying to maintain her I’m mad act.

But then Love gently brushed her thumb across Milk’s thumb. Just a small, slow caress.

Milk cracked.

A small smile tugged at her lips before she could stop it.

Love leaned closer and whispered, “Still ignoring me, Phi Miw?”

Milk tried to turn away, but her lips were already betraying her.

Love caressed her thumb again.

Milk tried so hard to keep her pout, but Love’s quiet touch under the pillow was breaking her resolve little by little.
Then Love squeezed her hand gently.

Milk finally gave in.

She slid closer  not enough for anyone to notice, but enough so their thighs touched. Still pretending to watch TV, Milk slowly rested her shoulder against Love’s.

Love pretended she didn’t notice.

Milk pretended she didn’t care.

But both of them were smiling like idiots at the screen.

Love whispered softly, still not looking at her “Are you still mad at me, Phi Miw?”

Milk whispered back, eyes straight aheadn“Mmm… a little.”

Love brushed her thumb over Milk’s hand again, hidden under the pillow.
Milk swallowed a laugh, her pout disappearing in real time.

Eventually, Love shifted closer, letting Milk’s head naturally fall to her shoulder.
Under the pillow, their hands intertwined completely.

They looked like two people watching TV normally.

But under the pillow?
Milk kept tracing circles on Love’s palm like a lovesick teenager.

Love kept biting her lips to stop from smiling.

Then Emi appeared.

“Nong Love!” Emi called brightly as she entered the living room.

Milk immediately straightened, pulling her hand away as fast as lightning.
Love quickly leaned away, posture going stiff and formal.

By the time Emi walked into the room, the two of them were sitting on opposite ends of the couch like nothing happened.

Love stood up fast. Milk didn’t look at her.

Emi smiled, unaware of the atmosphere she just ruined.n“Nong Love, do you want to go out for tea? I found a new café”

Milk’s eye twitched.

Love secretly glanced at Milk…
Milk was pretending to scroll on her phone, lips pressed tight, jaw clenched.

So much for hiding her jealousy.

Love cleared her throat quickly, “Uh… I’m a little tired, Phi Emi. Maybe tomorrow?”

Emi blinked, surprised. “But yesterday you said..”

Love shook her head politely, avoiding Milk’s direction because she knew ONE look would make Milk’s pout reappear, “Sorry, Phi. I want to rest a bit.”

Behind her, Milk smirked quietly at her phone, so smug that she almost exposed herself.

Emi sighed, disappointed but then she turned to Milk.

“Phi Milk, are you free? Maybe you want to..”

“No.” Milk answered instantly without looking up.

Emi rolled her eyes, “I didn’t even finish my sentence.”

Milk shrugged, “Still no.”

Emi huffed, Love kept her expression neutral. Milk kept fake-scrolling.

Emi walked away still confused, heading toward the kitchen.

As soon as she disappeared, Milk leaned closer to Love again not touching her, but close enough for Love to feel her warmth.

Love whispered, amused, “You’re so obvious, Phi Miw.”

Milk kept her eyes on her phone, “I’m not.”

Love smiled.“You are.”

Milk shifted just a bit closer,“Then stop making me jealous.”

Love whispered back, hiding her laugh,“Then stop being cute when you’re jealous.”

Milk froze, then slowly turned her head toward Love, “You think I’m cute?”

Love smirked, “A little.”

Milk’s ears turned red.

But the moment Emi’s footsteps were heard again, both girls separated instantly as if nothing happened at all.

Emi returned to the living room carrying the fruits she’d bought yesterday. Without noticing the familiar jealous glare from her sister, she slipped onto the sofa and sat right between Love and Milk.

The three of them stayed like that for a while. Milk pretended to be absorbed in her phone, Emi chatted animatedly with Love about her week and kept offering her pieces of fruit, and Love listened attentively, careful not to glance at Milk too often; she already knew Milk would ignore her again later.

A few minutes later, Namtan burst through the door, fresh from her baking class and beaming with pride. 

She immediately handed Milk a big, beautiful cake, and gave Love an adorable heart-shaped one.

Emi received nothing, which made her pout at her sister. “We can share the big cake,” Namtan suggested.

Namtan plopped down on the sofa, wedging herself between Emi and Love, and launched into an excited recap of her day. 

Emi was fuming. She barely got any alone time with Love these days because of Milk, and now Namtan was cockblocking her too.

Before Emi could fight for her spot, Milk abruptly stood up and headed to the kitchen without a word.

Love recognized the signs immediately, Milk had reached her jealousy limit.

Emi and Namtan, however, assumed she’d gone to prepare the cakes.

“Let’s wait here,” Namtan said cheerfully. 

“P’Milk probably went to grab plates and forks.”

“The cakes really do look amazing,” Emi added, forcing a smile.

“I’ll go help P’Miw,” Love said, starting to stand. “I’ll bring drinks too.”

“No, Nong Love, let me,” Emi protested, but Namtan quickly grabbed her arm and yanked her back down onto the sofa.

“Let Nong Love do it,” Namtan said sweetly. “Come on, I’ll show you photos of the other pastries I made today. I couldn’t bring any home, my classmates devoured them all!”

Emi tried to follow Love to the kitchen anyway, but Namtan was much stronger and kept her firmly pinned to the couch, still chattering away.

When Love finally reached the kitchen, she didn’t even get the chance to call Milk’s name.
A sudden pull then a firm kiss  captured her completely.

Love didn’t even resist. She kissed back instantly.
She’s really jealous, Love thought, and her heart fluttered.

But then footsteps echoed toward the kitchen.

Milk and Love broke apart immediately, both thinking they were finally caught, only to see Mewnich standing there, frozen, eyes wide.

“Oh my..” Mewnich started, but Love quickly slapped her hand over her sister’s mouth.

Milk crossed her arms and gave a dangerous smirk,“You saw nothing, right, Nong Mew?”

Mewnich looked at Milk’s face and immediately nodded, She freed herself from Love, walked to the fridge to get water, and calmly said, “I saw nothing.”

Then she walked straight back to her room like nothing happened.

Love blinked. “What just happened? Why didn’t she make a fuss? Do you know something I don’t? Because Mewnich never stays quiet like that.”

Milk shrugged innocently. “I know nothing.”
But the smile on her face said otherwise.

Milk grabbed some wipes from the counter and gently wiped the smudged lipstick from Love’s lips. Love did the same, wiping Milk’s mouth.

“Why are you so jealous, Phi Miw?” Love asked softly. “I barely even go on dates with them.”

“I don’t know,” Milk said honestly. “I’ve never been this jealous before. Only with you.”

“We’re only talking. We’re not even doing anything” Love said. “If you want me to be your girlfriend, then start finding them their own girlfriends so you’ll stop being jealous.”

Milk pouted, the kind of pout that made Love want to kiss her all over again.

“I don’t even know where to start,” Milk mumbled.

“Then start now,” Love said with a smile. “Ask them what they like… besides me.”

Milk was still pouting, so Love quickly handed her the plates and forks and pushed her gently toward the living room.

“Go. Before they think you’re baking the cake yourself.”

Milk sighed dramatically but walked out, jealous, pouting, and completely in love.

Milk returned to the living room carrying a stack of plates and forks. 

She paused for a second when she saw Namtan and Emi deep in conversation about the baking class, then quietly set everything on the coffee table and sat back down in her original spot.

“You’re really serious about opening that restaurant, huh, Nam?” Milk said softly, gazing at her twin’s bright, happy face.

“Of course I am. The construction is almost finished,” Namtan answered, beaming.

“What?!” Milk and Emi blurted out at the same time.

“You already built a whole restaurant and didn’t tell us?” Milk’s voice cracked a little. “I know you hate people linking it to our family name, but… we’re your sisters. We could’ve helped. This is a huge thing for you.” The hurt was obvious; her twin had kept something this important from her.

Namtan’s smile faltered. “Sorry, Milk. I didn’t want to bother anyone. Mom keeps telling you to rest and stop working so hard, and Emi’s always busy…” And I definitely couldn’t tell you that my business partner is your ex.

Not wanting the mood to sour completely, Emi jumped in. “So, P’Nam, where is this restaurant? When does it open?”

Namtan stole a quick, worried glance at Milk, but there was no backing out now. “In Phuket.”

The name hit Milk like a soft wave. A small, nostalgic smile curved her lips. “Phuket’s perfect. So many tourists… Oh, my ex is opening a restaurant there too. Looks like you’ll have some competition, Nam.” She laughed lightly, surprised at herself; saying Film’s name didn’t hurt anymore. Not even a little.

Namtan’s heart stuttered. She’s smiling… Does that mean she’s still in love with Film? A strange, sharp feeling twisted in her chest, but she shoved it down fast.

Milk kept talking, suddenly animated. “You should’ve seen the plans I drew for her back then. The whole place is built around this open-air courtyard with a glass roof that slides back at night, so people can eat under the stars. The structural supports are these thin steel trees; looks impossible until you see the load calculations…”

Emi listened, genuinely impressed by the engineering details spilling out of Milk’s mouth. 

Namtan stayed quiet on the sofa, lips pressed together. She didn’t need to imagine it; she was watching Milk’s old gift come to life, brick by brick.

Love, who had been standing unnoticed in the doorway with a tray of juice, felt her stomach drop. Milk’s whole face had lit up the moment she started talking about her “ex” and that restaurant, the one Love now knew belonged to Film. The warmth in Milk’s voice, the pride… it stung worse than anything.

She walked in silently, set the tray on the table with a soft clink, and forced a small smile. “I… suddenly have a headache. I’m going to lie down for a bit.”

The three sisters immediately turned, concern flashing across their faces.

“Do you need medicine, Nong?” Emi asked quickly.

“I have some in my room. It’s fine,” Love said, already backing toward the stairs.

Milk’s eyes narrowed slightly. She doesn’t keep medicine in her room. That’s a lie.

As soon as Love disappeared upstairs, the living room fell awkwardly silent.

Not ready to dive back into the Phuket topic, Namtan stood up, grabbed a knife, and started slicing the cakes. 

She handed a generous piece to Milk, a smaller one to Emi, and launched into a cheerful explanation of the recipe, the exact temperature she tempered the chocolate, the new technique she learned for the mousse.

Milk ate in silence, barely tasting the cake, staring at the empty staircase.

Why did Love suddenly get a headache

Love sat on the edge of her bed, arms crossed tight, glaring at the closed door.

“She was smiling… talking about her ex like it was nothing,” she muttered to the empty room. 

“How can she just… smile like that?”
Five minutes passed. 

Then ten.
The longer the silence stretched, the angrier Love got.

Why isn’t she coming after me? Doesn’t she even notice I left?

Knock knock.

“Nong Love?” Milk’s soft, sweet voice slipped through the door.

Love whipped around, ready to glare, but the sight stopped her cold: Milk was holding a bottle of water in one hand and a strip of paracetamol in the other.

“I brought you medicine, Nong,” Milk said gently. 

“I know you don’t actually keep any in your room.”

Love opened her mouth to snap that she didn’t need it, already reaching to shut the door, but Milk’s foot slid forward and blocked it.

“Why are you mad, Nong? Did I do something wrong?”

Love huffed. “Why are you even here, P’Milk? Go back downstairs and keep telling everyone how much you love Phuket.”

Milk’s lips curved into an understanding smile. “Ohhh… Nong, are you jealous?”

“I am not!” Love’s voice shot up an octave. “Why would I be jealous of your ex? The one you cried over for months, remember?”

Milk’s smile only grew brighter, eyes sparkling.
“P’Milk, stop smiling like that!”

“You’re jealous,” Milk sing-songed, stepping closer. “My wife is jealous.”

“Who said I’m your wife?!” Love stomped her foot, cheeks burning.

“I did.” Milk leaned in, voice dropping to a teasing whisper. “And Nong, don’t be jealous just because I can talk about Film now. It doesn’t hurt anymore.” She tapped Love’s chin lightly. “Because the person I like most in the world is standing right in front of me. My wife. You, Nong Love.”

Before Love could protest, Milk closed the distance and pressed a quick, playful kiss to her lips.

Love froze, face flaming. “W-whatever, P’Milk…”

“Come on, Nong,” Milk laughed, already pushing the door wider. “You promised to spend the whole day with me.”

“I never—”

Milk ignored her completely, slipped inside, and shut the door with a soft click. “Movie date.”

Love tried to keep scowling, but it was useless. 

Milk was already tugging her toward the bed, grabbing the laptop from the desk, and flopping down like she owned the place.

Within seconds they were side by side under the blanket, the opening credits of the series, lighting up the screen.

Love stole a glance at Milk grinning, relaxed, arm casually draped behind her shoulders and felt the last of her jealousy melt away.

“…You’re annoying,” she mumbled.

Milk just pulled her closer and hit play.

Few days later.

Milk finally walked into the big house. Love was on the sofa watching TV.

“I’m home,” Milk said.

“Welcome home, Phi Miw!” Love smiled brightly.
Milk dropped onto the sofa and rested her head on Love’s lap.

“I’m so tired… I drove to every project site today,” Milk sighed.

Love gently moved the hair from Milk’s face. “Poor Phi Miw.”

Milk smiled with her eyes closed, loving how Love stroked her hair.

“Don’t you have modeling jobs this week?” Milk asked softly.

“I quit,” Love said. “Mom wants me to help manage our family hotel. I start next week.”
Milk pouted, eyes still closed. “Then you’ll be super busy too… I already see you so little, Nong Love.”

Love laughed a little. “Didn’t anyone tell you? My first job is to watch the hotel renovation. Mom asked your company to do it. Phi Emi and Bonnie already said yes. Won’t you take the project?”

Milk quickly opened her eyes, pulled out her phone, and checked her email. She had been out all day and missed it. There it was an invitation to work on the Limpatiyakorn Hotel project.

She typed a fast reply, then grinned. “Looks like I’m going to love my next big job.”

She put the phone away, closed her eyes again, and snuggled closer.

Love giggled and kept playing with Milk’s hair.
Footsteps came closer. Love stopped right away and looked at the TV like nothing was happening.

It was Emi.

“Hi Nong Love! I’m back!” Emi said with a big smile. Her smile got smaller when she saw Milk’s head on Love’s lap.

“Hi Phi Emi, welcome home,” Love said kindly.

“Phi Milk is here already? Is she okay?” Emi asked. She felt a little jealous, she wished she could lie on Love’s lap like that, but she and Love weren’t that close yet.

“She has a headache,” Love answered quietly. It wasn’t the full truth, but it was easier.

Milk stayed quiet, eyes closed, happy to stay exactly where she was.

Emi went to her room to change clothes. She didn’t like what she saw in the living room, but she kept quiet. She knew her big sister Milk was still hurting after breaking up with Grandma Racha’s granddaughter. That break-up had made Milk and Love grow very close.

Emi dropped her bag on the desk, sat in her gaming chair, and took out her phone. She opened Instagram.

The first post was from Bonnie. Emi suddenly remembered she was on her secret account, the one that followed Bonnie.

“Oh, she has the day off. That’s why I didn’t see her at the office,” Emi muttered. Her jealousy from downstairs started to fade.

She swiped to the next photo and pouted. Bonnie wasn’t eating alone. There was a hand in the picture, and on that hand was a very familiar ring.

Emi slammed her palm on the desk, marched out of her room, and stormed into the living room. Milk was still lying with her head on Love’s lap.

Emi grabbed Milk’s right hand without warning.
“Hey! What are you doing?” Milk sat up fast and glared. Her voice was cold and scary.

Emi’s body shook, she always forgot how frightening her Phi could be but she was too curious to stop.

“Did you have lunch with Bonnie today?” she asked.

Milk sighed, sad to leave Love’s lap. “Yes. One of the project sites I visited today belongs to her family’s company.”

“You can’t do that, Phi!” Emi said loudly. “You can’t let that brat be your rebound!”

Milk blinked, confused. “Rebound? Bonnie?” Then she glanced at Love.

Love’s eyes were wide and hurt. Milk could almost hear the silent question: Am I just your rebound?

“OF COURSE NOT!” Milk shouted. “What are you talking about, Nong? Bonnie is my coworker! We just ate lunch together. She’s not a basketball!”

Love stood up quietly. “I… I’m thirsty. I’ll get something to drink,” she said in a small voice, then walked to the kitchen.

Emi let out a breath of relief, but when she saw Milk’s angry face, she panicked.

“Good! Even if Bonnie is a brat, she doesn’t deserve to be a rebound. Okay, problem solved! I still need to change!” Emi ran back to her room as fast as she could.

Milk took a deep breath. She wanted to scream at Emi, but right now Love was more important.

She got up and followed Love into the kitchen.

She felt so angry and unsure. Sometimes, she still worried about how Milk really felt about her. 

She doubted it now and then. But when Emi said "rebound," all those doubts came rushing back fast.

She knew Milk had loved someone else before.

She knew that person had hurt Milk deeply.

She knew she had been Milk's comfort right after the breakup.

But Love couldn't forget how Milk had cried and suffered. When Emi said that word, Love wondered: Am I really just a rebound?

She wasn't Milk's girlfriend yet. She had set a rule: Milk had to find girlfriends for her two sisters first before they could be together.

When she arrived at the kitchen, Milk said, “You’re not my rebound, Nong Love. Please believe me.”

Milk took one of Love's hands and kissed it gently.

Love did believe her... but she couldn't help doubting sometimes. Love sighed.

“I’ll make you dinner,” Love said and she watched the older girl’s smile grow brighter. In that moment, Love knew she was in too deep with the girl standing in front of her.

Bangkok University – lunchtime, hallway outside Mim’s classroom

Mim leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching Phi View practically trip over thin air while waving goodbye.

View finally managed a shaky “B-bye, Mim! See you after class!” then speed-walked away like she was escaping a fire.

Mim sighed dramatically at the empty hallway. 

“How is she THIS clumsy around me? Phi View, I KNOW you finally figured out you like me. So why won’t you just confess already?!”

A voice popped up right behind her. “Then why don’t YOU confess?”

Mim jumped three feet in the air. “MEW! Don’t scare me like that!”

Mewnich grinned, chewing on a strawberry Pocky. “Answer the question. You’ve been in love with her since you twoo were literally wearing cartoon backpacks. You’ve dropped more hints. Just tell her!”

Mim’s cheeks went red. “No way! Never! She took YEARS to realize her own feelings. She has to say it first! I suffered in silence since kindergarten, she can suffer a little now!”

Mewnich snorted so hard the Pocky almost flew out. “Looking at how Phi View is acting? Bold of you to assume she’ll confess in this lifetime. I give it… two to four more years minimum.”

Mim stomped her foot like a cartoon character. “MEW! Don’t jinx it!”

Mewnich just cackled, slung her bag over her shoulder, and walked into class. “Come on, drama queen. Professor’s gonna mark us late because of your love life.”

Mim huffed, stomping after her. “She’s confessing by next month or I’m changing schools!”

Mewnich (without turning around) raised a hand. “Bet accepted. Loser buys boba for a year.”

Mim groaned loudly enough for the whole hallway to hear. “I hate you.”

“You love me. Now hurry up, idiot in love.”

Phuket, late morning. The air smelled like salt and sunscreen.

Film stood in her tiny apartment bathroom, staring at the mirror.

The girl looking back had messy hair, tired eyes, and a face that felt… foreign.

“Okay, Rachanun Mahawan,” she told her reflection, pointing a finger like she was scolding someone else. “You’ve cried enough over that stupid, stupid mistake. New rule: stop being sad it’s over. Start being happy it happened at all! Starting fresh, there are plenty of fish in the sea. Time to bring back your confidence and get back out there.Start New

She grabbed her phone, downloaded a dating app, and immediately set her radius to “Phuket only, no from Bangkok allowed.”

Afternoon – construction site

The restaurant was 80% done, Namtan’s beach house next door was 95%. 

Film spotted Namtan in a hard hat and oversized sunglasses, looking unfairly cute while yelling at a worker about tile spacing.

Film took a deep breath. Work only. No mixing pleasure. Namtan’s a player anyway, she’s seen her leave bars with a different girl every weekend. Safe.

“Hey, Namtan.”

Namtan turned around… and literally froze like her brain blue-screened.

Because the night Namtan swore she’d forget? Yeah, it just flashed in 4K: Film on top of her, moving like..NOPE. NOT NOW.

Namtan flashed an awkward smile. 

“Do you… need something, Film?”

Film said “Restaurant’s almost done. Your House is basically finished. Time to start planning the menu.”

Namtan’s eyes betrayed her and dropped straight to Film’s lips.

Heart: BOOM BOOM BOOM.

Brain: MILK’S EX. MILK’S EX. DANGER. ABORT.

“Yes, menu! Great!” Namtan squeaked.

Film kept talking. “I think we should..”

Namtan’s brain replayed the memory in slow motion. She panicked and screamed, “NO!!”

Film blinked. “No… to planning the menu?”

“Ha? What? Sorry, I—uh—left my laptop in Bangkok!” Namtan lied at the speed of light.

Film raised an eyebrow. “You screamed ‘no’ because of a laptop?”

“Yes! Tragic laptop loss. Very sad.”

Film sighed. “I said we should drive around Phuket for a week, eat and drink everything, see what locals and tourists love, then build the menu from that.”

Namtan forced the world’s stiffest smile. “Cool! Cool cool cool. Research. Eating. Totally normal. I’m normal.”

Inside Namtan’s head:

“Great job, genius. You said you were going to court Love seriously, but you slept around with girls in Phuket, had a one-night stand with your twin’s ex, and now you can’t look at Film without wanting to combust. This is karma, delicious, sexy, screaming karma.”

Film tilted her head. “You okay? Your face is red.”

“Sunburn!” Namtan yelled, then speed-walked away. “Gotta… check tiles! Lots of tiles! Very important tiles!”

Film watched her go, confused. “Weirdo,” she muttered, then shrugged and went back to work.

Namtan hid behind a palm tree and smacked her forehead repeatedly.

“Get it together, woman. Love is the goal. Love. Cute, sweet, innocent Love. Not your twin’s insanely hot ex who, STOP IT BRAIN.”

She peeked out. Film was laughing with the workers, hair in a messy bun, sleeves rolled up.
Namtan groaned. “I’m so screwed.”.

Chapter Text

Phuket

It took two whole days for Namtan to prepare herself mentally for this “work trip” with Film.

She told herself over and over:

This is business. Survey only. Not a date. Definitely not a date.

But every time she pictured standing next to Film, her knees softened like overcooked noodles and her heartbeat turned into a drum festival.

Then she remembered something, something she regretted even thinking of.

She was 16, still using her Kwong surname, when Milk came storming into their house, eyes blazing.

“What the fuck, Nam! Your ex just poured juice on me in front of the entire school! She even said, ‘give my regards’!”

“I’m sorry, Milk…” Namtan scratched the back of her head. “Which ex?”

Milk inhaled sharply, whispering to herself, Relax, relax, you can’t choose your siblings…

Then she glared at Namtan and snapped:

“I DON’T KNOW, you have too many! One day you’ll meet someone and you’ll be screwed because you won’t know what to do!”

Then Milk shoved her bag into Namtan’s arms.

“Clean my bag. It smells like orange juice. And DON’T let the maid wash it. You do it.”

Milk stomped to her room and slammed the door.

Remembering that moment now, older and wiser, Namtan covered her face.

“Milk cursed me… and it involved her ex… Oh my god. I’m really screwed.”

A loud horn beeped outside her Airbnb, snapping her out of her spiral.

Film was here.

Film, who offered to drive her around Phuket since Namtan didn’t have her car yet.

Film, the reason Namtan had lost two nights of sleep without even realizing it, and the kind of sleepless nights she definitely didn’t enjoy.

It’s not a date. It’s not a date.

She repeated it like prayer beads as she grabbed her bag.

But when she opened the car door and saw Film’s outfit, simple, clean, stylish, and unfairly attractive, Namtan froze.

Her jaw dropped.

Her soul left her body.

Oh my g...WHY is she dressed like this?! I wish it was a date!

Damn you, Milk, for meeting her first! Damn you for cursing me! I’m cursing you right now, I swear!

Meanwhile in Bangkok…

Milk suddenly coughed hard, choking on her water.

“Phi Miw! Are you okay?” Love rushed to her, patting her back gently.

Milk blinked, eyes watery.

“I think… someone is cursing me.”

Love frowned. “Who would curse you?”

Milk shrugged, still coughing lightly.

“No idea… but it feels personal.”

Film’s driving was ridiculously sexy in Namtan’s eyes, the way she held the wheel, her focus, her relaxed posture, everything.

But Namtan didn’t dare look directly at her. If she did, she might combust.

So she stayed quiet, staring straight ahead, afraid that if she opened her mouth, something stupid would fall out.

“Namtan,” Film called.

Namtan’s head snapped toward her so fast she almost strained her neck.

“Yes?” she answered way too quickly.

My god, Nam. Behave. Act normal.

Film glanced at her briefly before looking back at the road. She had stopped calling her Phi. It felt too intimate. Too dangerous. Especially after that one night they shared, a night Film barely remembered, something she deeply regretted and didn’t at the same time.

Better draw a line, she told herself.

“I want to ask you about the dating scene here in Phuket,” Film said casually. “I downloaded an app, and honestly… every girl I see feels like a downgrade.”

She sighed.

“Sorry, that sounds awful, but my ex set a standard that’s hard to replace. If I date again, I want someone on her level. Or… maybe even an upgrade.”

Ex? Milk! The word stabbed Namtan a little too sharply.

“Dating? I’m not dating anyone,” Namtan said quickly, proud she didn’t stutter.

Film chuckled. “You don’t have to lie to me, Namtan. I always saw you at the bar, leaving with girls.”

Her tone was teasing, light.

“And I’m not innocent, I know what you did after. I mean… we did it too. Once.”

Namtan’s brain exploded.

Film had to mention that night.

Immediately, Namtan’s imagination flashed with memories she wished she didn’t remember so well.

Film noticed the blush creeping up her cheeks.

“Oh, you’re blushing.” She smirked. “Cute. Don’t be embarrassed. I know you’re a player, Namtan.”

Player.

She used to wear that label proudly.

But hearing it from Film?

It hurt.

Unexpectedly. Deeply.

“I’m not...well… I don’t want to be one anymore,” Namtan said quietly.

Film raised a brow. “Oh? Did you find someone who makes you want to stop?”

Namtan swallowed, gave her an awkward smile, and shrugged. The day had only just begun, but Namtan already felt exhausted.

Bangkok

Milk accidentally slept in Love’s room again.

Or maybe not so accidentally this time.

Milk was the first to wake.

Love stirred a moment later when she felt Milk shifting beside her.

“Morning, wife,” Milk said with a bright smile.

“Good morning, Phi Miw.” Love rubbed her eyes, still groggy.

“When are you coming to my office? I didn’t check my schedule last night. I think my team sent it while I was asleep.”

“Ten o’clock, Phi Miw. One of my managers, my secretary, and I will go to your office.”

“Ohhh, I have plenty of time to terrorize my team so they’ll be perfect in front of you,” Milk teased with a playful grin.

She leaned closer and gave Love a kiss on the cheek.

“See you later. I’ll cook breakfast for us before we go to work”

“Okay, Phi Miw. See you.”

Love got up to shower while Milk headed to her own room to get ready.

After showering and finishing her morning routine, Milk rushed to the kitchen and began cooking a light breakfast for Love and everyone else.

As she plated the last egg, she looked up and saw Love walking in with her full work outfit on.

“Egg, pancake, hotdog, bacon… or me. Choose your breakfast,” Milk said, the “or me” whispered so quietly.

“Phi Miw!” Love hissed and playfully slapped Milk’s shoulder, making Milk burst into laughter.

The house was still quiet; everyone else would probably wake much later.

Milk set their plates on the dining table while Love prepared her juice and Milk’s coffee.

They had just begun eating when Milk suddenly remembered Emi’s outburst the other day.

“Nong Love, do you remember how Emi reacted when I had lunch with our child?”

“Phi Miw,” Love sighed. “You will not let go of calling Bonnie our child.”

Milk shrugged. "but did you notice? Emi is always taking projects where Bonnie is the interior designer. My team keeps mentioning it.”

Love rolled her eyes. “Phi Miw, you’re exaggerating. They fight like cats and dogs.”

“There’s a thin line between hate and love,” Milk said firmly.

“Don’t be crazy, Phi Miw. You’re only thinking like that because of what I asked you to do.”

“What? It could happen! And if Emi is really into Bonnie, Its win for me.”

Love shook her head. “I don’t see that happening.”

Milk frowned.

“Why are you so negative about it, Nong? You don’t want Emi to stop courting you?”

“Phi Miw, it’s too early for your jealousy. And that’s not..”

“Oh, so being jealous has a schedule now? Sorry for not checking the time.”

Milk pushed back her chair. “I think I lost my appetite.”

She was about to walk off when Love grabbed her wrist.

Love opened her mouth to explain...

...but Emi entered the dining room in her pajamas.

“Morning, Phi Milk. Nong Love,” Emi said, completely oblivious to the storm.

Love instantly let go of Milk’s wrist, making Milk’s frown deepen.

Without another word, Milk turned and walked out of the house, grabbed her keys, and drove straight to her office.

Love sighed as she watched her leave.

“Morning, Phi Emi,” Love said quietly.

Emi blinked.

“I think Phi Miw has her monthly visit.”

Love forced an awkward smile and continued eating.

She quietly sighed, thinking:

I’ll fix this later. I hope I can.

AT THE KWONG OFFICE

Love wanted to frown the moment she arrived.

Milk didn’t greet her.

Didn’t look up.

Didn’t even smile.

But when Bonnie walked in?

Milk left her office just to greet her at the door.

Love felt the irritation climb her throat.

And then..

Milk’s office was full of tall, sexy female employees hovering around her.

Love immediately disliked the first one who introduced herself:

Jingjing, Milk’s secretary.

Then another girl, Janhae, kept placing papers in front of Milk, leaning a little too close. Milk looked at the documents with full attention… but never once at Love.

Love’s jaw tightened.

The meeting began once Bonnie arrived.

“Tsk, letting people wait for her,” Emi muttered loudly.

Bonnie rolled her eyes, unimpressed.

Love almost turned to Milk to say See? I told you so…

But Milk wasn’t even looking at her.

She was busy checking plans on her laptop, flipping through the hotel old building plan fthe Limpatiyakorn hotel sent.

Janhae started the briefing.

“The meeting might take the whole day,” she said confidently. “There are multiple concerns we noticed during inspection.”

Emi’s team said she will present their material plan too.

Milk’s secretary tried to guide Love to sit at the head table, but Love refused and sat beside Milk, only to be ignored again.

Love wanted to pout so badly her lips twitched.

When some of the ideas were presented, Love nodded politely.

The ideas were good..

if only they weren’t coming from these women hovering over her Phi Miw

Janhae continued speaking. Love wasn’t listening anymore.

She caught Milk’s secretary entering again, leaning in too close.

She caught Janhae staring seductively at Milk while Emi’s team was talking.

Love could feel her blood pressure spike.

Then she heard someone say Milk needed to take a call.

Love froze.

Is that a secret code for “let’s make out”?

Her grip on her pen tightened until it almost snapped.

“Okay,” Milk said casually.

Milk stood, spoke to the manager from Love’s team, and excused herself to take the call.

Still no eye contact with Love.

Love was now officially pissed.

When Milk left, Bonnie clapped her hands.

“My turn! I’ll present the design ideas now.”

Janhae nodded and seemed about to sit 

but instead she slipped out of the room.

Love’s eyebrow twitched.

That woman had been staring at Milk like she wanted to eat her alive.

Love stood up abruptly.

“Bathroom break,” she announced.

“Love! I’m presenting!” Bonnie pouted.

“It can’t wait, Bon. My manager will listen,” Love said, smiling awkwardly.

As she left, she thought she heard Emi whisper, “Cute.”

Love didn’t check.

Outside the meeting room, one of Milk’s employees immediately asked:

“Do you need anything, Miss?”

“Bathroom,” Love said, scanning left and right especially for Janhae and Jingjing.

The employee pointed down the hallway.

Love power-walked.

As soon as she reached the bathroom..

She heard a moan inside.

Love stopped.

Eyes wide.

Blood boiling.

She twisted the door handle, locked.

More scrambling inside.

Her jealousy snapped.

She was ready to break the door when..

“What are you doing there, Nong?”

Love spun around.

Milk.

Behind her.

Not inside the bathroom.

Love marched toward her, pointing dramatically.

“You’re not cheating on me?”

Milk blinked.

“Cheating? I’m mad at you but I can’t cheat. And how would you call it cheating when you’re not my girlfriend?”

“I’m your wife,” Love declared.

Milk bit her lip to stop herself from smiling.

Wife.

God, she loved hearing it.

“Wait, why do you think I’m cheating?” Milk asked.

“I heard moaning in the bathroom,” Love said.

Milk sighed, exhausted.

“Oh god. Phi Jing, Phi Jan not again. Control your hormones, for heaven’s sake.”

Love blinked.

Then the bathroom door opened.

Janhae and Jingjing stepped out, hair messy, clothes wrinkled, clearly making out earlier.

“Sorry, Nong,” Jing said. “Janhae attacked me again.”

“Nong, it was Jing’s fault! She leaned on you and stared at me seductively,” Janhae argued.

Milk massaged her

temples.

“Phi, please do it at your house, not in the office. I already received so many complaints. And now Miss Limpatiyakorn, OUR CLIENT heard you two making out.”

“Sorry, Ma’am,” they said in unison before scattering, Jingjing rushing to her desk, Janhae returning to the meeting.

Love stared at Milk, still processing.

Milk looked back at her, crossing her arms.

“So… you were jealous?”

Love turned red. "Phi Miw"

Milk laughed and walked away from Love.

Chapter Text

Bangkok University

June sat in the back corner of the library, checking her phone for the fifth time.

Ten minutes late.

If Mim didn’t show up in the next thirty seconds, she was ready to leave and spend the afternoon tricking Mewnich into a date—a date that would very likely end in her dorm room, exactly where June wanted her.

She grabbed her bag, already half-standing, when Mim suddenly appeared.

“Phi June, sorry I’m late! I bought you food and a drink,” Mim said, placing everything on the table.

June raised a brow. “You know food isn’t allowed here, right?”

But she accepted the food anyway.

“I know the student at the front. I think he has a crush on me,” Mim said proudly. “He smiled at me and didn’t even notice what I was holding.”

June rolled her eyes. “So? What did you need me for?”

“I need advice.” Mim leaned forward. “How do I trick Phi View into telling me she loves me?”

June blinked. “Oh? Did she finally realize she likes you like that?”

Mim nodded. “Yes, Phi. You remember when she used to have that huge crush on you? She acted so clumsy around you. She only stopped after hearing you already had a girlfriend. Then she went back to normal… just like now.” Mim pouted. “Now she acts like that with me.”

“Ohh, the old days,” June said with a dramatic sigh.

“Phi! Stop reminiscing! I didn’t like you back then!” Mim stomped her foot under the table.

June laughed. “Okay, okay. But why ask me?”

“Because Phi, you always trick Mewnich into doing the things you want.” Mim crossed her arms.

June smirked. “Beautiful life.”

“Phi!” Mim hissed. “Stop daydreaming about Mewnich and help me!”

June sighed, leaned forward, and whispered, “How about this…”

Ten minutes later, June and Mim walked out of the library with matching satisfied smiles—

June because Mewnich had just texted her yes to “snacks” (snacks meaning: her dorm).

And Mim because she was ready to execute June’s master plan.

View had already messaged, saying she was waiting in the parking lot and would drive her home.

Parking Lot

Mim climbed into the passenger seat. View had a nervous smile, hands frozen on the steering wheel.

Okay Mim… susu, she told herself and started the plan.

Before View could start the car, Mim spoke.

“Phi View, can I tell you something?”

View turned to her immediately, giving her full attention. “Yes, nong. You can tell me anything.”

“You know we’re already adults, right?”

View’s first instinct was to say no, because in her heart Mim was still a baby

but that didn’t make sense anymore, not when she wanted to kiss her.

So she just nodded and waited.

“My classmates were talking earlier about how their boyfriends are awful at kissing,” Mim said casually. “And one girl said her boyfriend told her she was awful at kissing. I didn’t say anything because I’ve never been kissed before.”

View’s eyes widened slightly.

“So I was thinking…” Mim continued sweetly, “maybe I should say yes to Fourth and kiss him. You know, just to learn? To check if I’m bad at kissing or not.”

View froze. Completely.

“Phi View? Phi? You're not answering me.” Mim pulled out her phone. “Since you’re not saying anything, I’ll just text Fourth now..”

Before she could finish, View grabbed her phone and tossed it into the back seat.

“Phi! My phone!”

View didn’t answer.

She just unbuckled her seatbelt, leaned in, and kissed Mim.

Mim gasped, caught off guard for a second

then she kissed her back, heart exploding in her chest.

Phuket

First Stop, The Famous Café

Film was relieved when the staff told them there was an available table. They sat down, ordered coffee, and ordered every single pastry in the display case.

The staff noticed the camera and immediately assumed they were vloggers.

“Khun vloggers, we prepared our best pastries for you,” the barista said proudly, placing an extra plate on the table.

Film just smiled like she expected that reaction.

Namtan only blinked.

“Oh, you have a nice camera, Nong,” Namtan said, trying to keep her tone casual.

But inside, she was still replaying their last conversation in the car.

Film thinking she was a player…

Film looking at her with completely innocent eyes…

No hint of want.

No spark.

It made her act normal now. 

She needed to stop being a girl who admired Film too much.

She needed to be professional.

Not a fan.

Not someone who keeps falling when Film smiles for no reason.

“Yes,” Film said, lifting the camera lightly. “My ex bought me this. It really helps. When people see a camera in a restaurant, they assume you’re a vlogger and give you better treatment.”

Smile.

Badum, badum.

Namtan’s heart reacted, She pretended to care about the pastries instead.

After sampling everything, she confidently set down her fork.

“Oh nong, the pastries here are good, but when our restaurant opens, I swear I’ll have the pastry menu in the bag. Easy.”

Film brightened. “Really? That’s great! So we just need to finalize the lunch and dinner menu.”

“Yes, let’s find the best food for our restaurant,” Namtan replied proudly.

Film smiled again.

Namtan smiled back.

Her heart beat way too fast again.

Second Stop, Lunch Restaurant

After pastries, Film drove them to the lunch place Drew kept recommending.

Inside, the staff immediately perked up at the sight of Film’s camera.

“Table for two? This way, khun vloggers,” one of them said.

Film laughed but didn’t bother correcting them.

They were served the restaurant’s full signature menu, curry crab, fried sea bass, three kinds of spicy salad.

“Okay, this looks too good,” Film said, raising the camera. “Smile, Namtan.”

Namtan did not smile.

She froze instead.

“Why are you stiff?” Film chuckled and reached over to tap Namtan’s cheek. “Relax.”

Badum.

Touch.

Why did she touch her?

Why did she breathe near her?

Why did life do this?

“I’m… fine,” Namtan said, voice cracking.

Film hummed, going back to the food, completely unaware she had ruined someone’s emotional stability AGAIN.

Film finished eating quickly, while Namtan took notes as she tasted each dish.

Film, with nothing to do, pulled out her phone and opened her dating app.

Namtan’s eye twitched.

She stabbed her shrimp.

Hard.

Can she not check dating apps while she’s with me?

Is that even allowed?

Can someone arrest her?

But she calmed slightly when she saw Film swipe left.

Left.

Left.

Left again.

Still, annoyance simmered.

Can she stop talking about Milk? Milk giving her camera. Milk giving her building plans. Milk Milk Milk whatever.

She stabbed another piece of fish.

“Oh, are you done, Namtan?” Film asked, closing her phone and slipping it into her bag.

“Yes. The dishes here are great,” Namtan said, forcing normalcy.

Then… she felt her own reaction.

A chill.

A realization.

What the heck.

Me? Namtan Kwong? Knowing jealousy?

I’m really, really screwed.

Bangkok — Meeting Room

When Milk returned to the meeting room, the atmosphere was loud again.

Emi and Bonnie were arguing, again about the safety issues in Bonnie’s proposed design.

But the moment Bonnie saw Milk walk in, smiling… and Love behind her, also smiling…

She instantly stopped arguing.

“Fine. We’ll do what you said,” Bonnie sighed dramatically.

Emi blinked.

“What? Why did you stop? And why are you giving me that pity look again?”

“I am not,” Bonnie snapped, flipping her hair.

Emi inhaled sharply because Bonnie’s hair literally brushed her face.

She smelled it.

Then froze, eyes wide.

She quickly composed herself and glared.

Bonnie calmly walked back to her seat. Emi’s eyes followed her like a betrayed cat.

“Brat,” Emi muttered.

“Jerk,” Bonnie shot back, rolling her eyes.

Love leaned toward Milk and mouthed: See? I told you.

But Milk saw something else entirely.

The way Emi’s eyes softened…

The way she smelled Bonnie’s hair…

The way she kept watching Bonnie walk away.

Milk only smiled and shook her head, amused.

Lunch Announcement

“Okay, it’s almost noon,” Milk said, addressing the room but looking at Bonnie. “Our cafeteria prepared lunch for us. Shall we go?”

“Phi Milk, did you ask them not to include beef?” Bonnie asked.

“Yes nong. I’m allergic too, so no beef.”

Bonnie’s face lit up. She stood and took Milk’s hand before dragging her toward the door.

But she at Love on the way out.

Love rolled her eyes then followed them.

Emi, however, remained frozen.

She didn’t know what she felt, but she did not like the way Bonnie held Milk’s hand.

When one of her employees asked if she was okay, she sighed, nodded, and walked out.

Cafeteria

Milk had reserved a table at the far end, a bit secluded.

She was about to sit between Love and Bonnie when Jingjing hurried over.

“Phi Milk, Emi are needed in Ma’am Lingling’s office.” Jingjing said

Milk and Emi excused themselves and went upstairs.

The moment they entered, Lingling smiled sweetly.

“Have lunch with me?”

Emi answered immediately.

“Mom, we have lunch with our client today. We can’t.”

Milk stayed quiet.

She could say yes and invite Love and Bonnie…

But Emi looked ready to drag Milk back to the cafeteria by force.

Lingling pouted.

Both daughters flinched.

“Mom… that only works on Mae,” Emi reminded her.

“But I miss you two,” Lingling whined.

“We have clients, Mom,” Emi repeated, shooting Milk a look: Do not betray me.

Milk raised her hands in surrender. But then

“Yes, Mom, we have clients but… it’s just Love. We can invite her to join..”

“No.” Emi cut her off sharply. “We also have the interior design team. And Love’s team.”

Milk blinked and thought Oh? Oho? My wife, I think I should’ve said “I told you so” earlier…

“Amm, yes, Mom, I forgot,” Milk said quickly. “There are other teams too. But we can have dinner later with Mae. I’ll invite Love and Bonnie too.”

Milk subtly watched Emi’s reaction.

There. A tiny sparkle in Emi’s eyes.

Milk mentally screamed: Got you. Something REALLY is going on.

Lingling clapped her hands.

“That’s perfect! I’ll tell Mae. I’m calling her right now. Go back to your clients.”

She waved them off while already dialing her wife’s number.

When Milk and Emi returned to the cafeteria, Milk lifted her hand to wave at Love and Bonnie.

But Emi suddenly grabbed her wrist and yanked her behind a pillar.

“What the fuck is going on?” Emi hissed, looking absolutely pissed.

Milk peeked toward their reserved table.

Two unfamiliar guys were sitting with Love and Bonnie… clearly flirting.

Milk blinked. “Why are we hiding, nong…?”

“Those fucking guys are flirting with Love,” Emi growled.

Milk raised a brow. Love wasn’t even looking at them. Her face scream bored. Milk wasn’t jealous at all.

Then she looked at Emi again.

Emi’s eyes weren’t on Love.

They were locked on Bonnie.

Bonnie… who was smiling and chatting with the guy in front of her.

Milk nearly choked trying not to laugh.

She decided to test her theory.

“Oh,” Milk whispered dramatically. “Did that guy just hold Nong Bonnie’s hand?”

Emi’s head SNAPPED forward.

Her eyes darkened pure, volcanic jealousy.

Got you, Milk thought happily.

My lovely, beautiful wife… I was right.

And then the two guys loudly ordered:

“Diiiet Coke! And hurry!”

Emi’s hand twitched.

“Oh hell no,” she muttered. “Come on, Phi.”

She dragged Milk straight into the cafeteria kitchen.

The kitchen staff froze when they saw the Kwong sisters.

One waiter stormed in behind them, mumbling angrily, “Those two jerks act like they own the place—ordering me around like I’m their maid..”

He froze when he noticed Milk and Emi.

“M–Ma’am, I—I didn’t know...”

“It’s fine,” Emi said calmly. “Give me their order.”

Milk stood back, arms crossed, watching.

Emi grabbed two Diet Coke cups.

“Hot sauce,” she ordered.

The staff handed her the bottle.

Emi opened it and poured a generous amount inside the cups.

One cook smirked and handed her a bowl of the spiciest chili in the kitchen.

Emi’s smile turned evil.

“Perfect. Let’s serve this.”

Milk followed the waiter out.

Love’s eyes widened in relief and panic when she saw Milk and Emi walking toward them.

Her face said everything: I swear I’m not flirting...please don’t be jealous!

Bonnie, on the other hand, was smiling brightly at the guy.

The two boys took their drinks.

One sip.

Boom.

Their eyes blew wide, faces turning red, coughing violently.

One guy stood up to grab the waiter but Milk stepped between them.

The guy immediately froze.

“Miss Kwong!” he said, straightening up. “I… I’m Engineer Jarred Lee. I’m here for a meeting.”

Milk kept her voice cold, professional.

“Did my secretary not tell you I’m in a meeting and can’t take other clients?”

“Y–yes ma’am, but this is important. My client wants you to be her architect in this project..”

“Mr. Lee,” Milk cut him, “I’m busy. You can come tomorrow. Do not ambush me in my cafeteria again.”

The second guy,who was earlier trying to flirt with Love, looked terrified.

He tugged his friend.

“Let’s go. Right now.”

They bowed repeatedly and fled the cafeteria.

The moment they were gone..

Emi burst out laughing.

Milk smiled and turned to Love, who stared at her with wide eyes, still sending the silent message, I’m not flirting.

Bonnie, meanwhile, crossed her arms, pouting HARD. “My cute guy was talking to me… what did you do, jerk?”

“I did nothing.” The look on Emi’s face said it all: Worth. Every. Single. Second.

Chapter Text

Namtan’s POV

I seriously need to steady this stupid heart. Yes, yes, I know. I really like her. Maybe this is karma for playing with so many girls because now that I’ve finally met someone who can make my heart go insane, she doesn’t even see me as an option.

And I noticed it… she stopped calling me Phi. Meanwhile, I’m still calling her Nong.

Pathetic.

“Oh Namtan, our restaurant blessing is in three months. Are you going to bless your house too? Did you invite someone already?”

How can an innocent smile make me swoon like this? She’s asking a question and I’m just here staring like an idiot, smiling like a clown in love.

“Yes, just bless the restaurant and my house at the same time. Have you thought about who you’re inviting?” I ask, and my heart already knows the answer.

And when she smiles that smile, I know exactly who she’s thinking of. My twin sister.

I look down at my plate because that tiny smile makes my heart ache in ways it shouldn’t.

“Yes. My grandma, and someone who needs to see my restaurant. I promised her she’d be here when it happens.”

She says it so softly.

I don’t need to look up to know there’s a faint smile on her lips.

I think I’m going to puke everything I ate.

“Hey, are you okay? Why do you look like you want to throw up?” Film asks.

I do want to, actually. But if she asks why, I genuinely don’t know what to say.

“I’m ok… we just ate too much,” I lie.

She chuckles.

God, I am so deep in this girl it’s embarrassing.

Then someone walks up to us,some random girl and she’s looking at Film like she’s greeting her soulmate. Completely ignoring my existence.

Oh for fuck’s sake.

Is this girl really making a move on Film while I’m right here?

Calm down, Namtan. You cannot punch someone just for existing and looking at Film like a hungry hyena.

“Hi, your name is Film, right?” the girl asks, still ignoring me.

Film looks confused. She clearly doesn’t know her.

“Yes?” Film answers.

“Oh, you don’t know me, but you could if you’d just swipe right. I’ve been swiping right on your photo, but you keep swiping left.”

I see the shock on Film’s face. But this annoying girl keeps going.

“Oh, is she the one you swipe right on?” she asks, looking me up and down like she’s inspecting a trash bag.

Is she asking for a fight?

My hand curls into a fist..

But then Film reaches over and holds my hand.

Just like that… my anger disappears, and my heart goes absolutely feral.

She smiles at me like she’s telling me, Relax. I’ve got this.

Then she turns to the girl.

“I don’t know what you want from me, Ms…” Film begins. The girl opens her mouth to answer, but Film cuts her off.

“But maybe take a hint? Me swiping left means you’re not my type.”

The woman freezes, surprised.

She blushes, glares at us, and walks away.

Yeah, walk away.

your not her type, you loser.

Then I feel Film’s hand slip away from mine.

God, I wish she held on longer.

“I don’t like women like that,” Film mutters. “I can tell she’s a player.”

Then she glances at me.

“No offense.”

Just kill me.

I don’t even think before answering.

“None taken,” I say, smiling awkwardly while screaming internally.

3rd Person POV

After that awkward moment with the girl at the restaurant, Film and Namtan finished the rest of their meal in silence. The tension lingered, not heavy, but thick enough to make both of them hyper-aware of every clink of fork against plate.

When they were done, Film drove Namtan back to her Airbnb. No music. No chatter. Just silence, shared but unreadable.

Film’s POV

Namtan became unusually quiet after my comment.

Did I offend her?

She said she didn’t mind, but the way her face dropped a little… I don’t know. Maybe she really did just eat too much.

When I parked in front of her Airbnb, she unbuckled her seatbelt and said a simple goodnight.

But then..

“Oh, Namtan?” I said.

She paused, turning back to me.

And she smiled.

Relief washed over me.

Okay. She’s not mad. Maybe she’s just tired.

“If you could give me a list of what you think we should have for our menu in three days, that would be great,” I added.

There it was, the awkward look again.

Yeah… maybe she really needs to puke.

I shouldn’t keep her any longer if she already has a stomach ache.

“Oh, okay. Will do. Goodnight,” she said.

“Goodnight, Namtan,” I replied, waving as she stepped out.

Then I drove off toward my apartment.

Back home, I showered and did my night routine.

Then I sat at my desk, reviewing the video we took earlier of the dishes we tried.

It took me thirty minutes to note down the foods I liked. When I paused the video to look something up, the screen stopped on a frame of Namtan smiling at the camera.

I smiled too.

She’s beautiful.

But I quickly shook my head.

No.

No, no, no. I cannot mix business, which hasn’t even started yet, with pleasure

Even if I do find her beautiful, I can’t date her.

Back to the notes.

We still didn’t have a name for the restaurant. I wanted to name it Royal Delight, but I should ask Namtan first.

She might have a better idea.

While thinking about restaurant names, I noticed my phone.

Right. Invitations.

I should start sending them now so everyone can free their schedules.

First, I texted my grandma.

Then my parents.

And then… the person I dreaded messaging.

I can’t call her.

But she deserves to know.

It’s the least I can do.

I wrote so many versions of the invitation, delete, rewrite, delete again.

For an hour I just kept staring at the screen, chickening out.

Finally, exhaustion from the long day hit me.

Before I could overthink again, I just hit send.

I lay down on my bed.

Will she come?

Does she still hate me?

Thinking about her still brings regret.

But it doesn’t hurt the way it used to.

Probably because I’ve accepted it,

What happened between us…

That was my fault.

i still have three months before i see her, if she ever come

Then I remembered Namtan’s face when I told her everything.

How she didn’t even hesitate to call me stupid.

I laughed softly.

I really am stupid.

Ten minutes passed.

No reply.

Before… Phi Milk would reply instantly.

But now?

Nothing.

If she found someone new already…

I think I’d be happy for her.

Bangkok University

View and Mim finally had to stop kissing, mostly because they both needed air.

When View pulled back, eyes still closed, she whispered breathlessly, “You kiss well, Nong Mim…”

But Mim open her eyes quickly

She stared at View’s face, still flushed from the kiss.

Phi is really beautiful… Mim thought.

Then she saw it, the exact moment View realized what she just did.

View’s eyes snapped open. Panic spread across her face.

“I—I don’t think I can drive you back, Nong. I need to run.”

“Phi View...”

Too late.

View had already bolted out of the car… leaving her own keys behind.

Mim exhaled, long and defeated.

“At least you still have your phone,” she muttered.

She picked up the abandoned car key, stepped out, and locked the car before texting View:

“Phi, I’ll be at June’s dorm. Message me when you’re done… running.”

With that sent, she called Mewnich.

“Hello? Mim?”

“Mew, where are you?” Mim asked.

“Oh, me and Phi June are heading to her dorm to cook the snacks we bought. Want to join us?” Mewnich replied cheerfully.

Mim could clearly hear June in the background yelling,

“NO!”

Mim chuckled. “I’ll be there. Wait for me.”

She hung up, and a minute later her phone buzzed.

From June:

I hate you.

Mim couldn’t help but laugh at the message.

Meanwhile, View was sprinting around campus like her life depended on it, face red, heart pounding, hands covering her cheeks.

People didn’t even react anymore.

It wasn’t the first time View randomly ran around campus acting weird.

Honestly, some students barely looked up. They just assumed:

“Ah, View’s having another moment.”

And View kept running, trying to burn away the feeling of Mim’s lips on hers.

Cafeteria

Milk looked at Love and silently gestured for her to follow.

“I’m going to the restroom first,” Milk said before walking away.

Love’s heart immediately tightened.

What did I do? I didn’t even look at the guy earlier, it was all Bonnie flirting! Why does she look serious?

She swallowed hard, then stood up.

“I… I’ll go to the restroom too,” she told Bonnie and Emi.

Bonnie lifted her eyebrows knowingly.

Love quickly shook her head, silently saying: It’s not what you think!

Emi stopped laughing and asked, “Do you want me to come with you?”

“No need. Phi Miw is already there.” Love bowed slightly and hurried away.

Emi nodded and stayed seated.

A waitress approached her.

“Khun Emi, are you ready to order?”

Emi glanced at Bonnie. “Have you ordered?”

“No,” Bonnie said. “We waited for Phi Milk to come back so we could order together.”

Bonnie was used to being annoyed at Emi, only to forget the reason minutes later, mostly because she had a weakness for pretty faces. Even if Emi constantly irritated her, having someone that gorgeous nearby was… tolerable.

But Emi frowned the moment she heard Bonnie say it.

“Phi Milk this, Phi Milk that… why always Phi Milk…” Emi muttered under her breath.

“What?” Bonnie asked, narrowing her eyes. “Are you cursing me, jerk?”

“I’m not,” Emi shot back, flustered. She quickly turned to the waitress and ordered food for herself and Bonnie.

Bonnie blinked at the long list.

“You ordered so much. Are you going to eat all that?”

“I ordered for both of us,” Emi said stiffly. “You’re allergic to beef, right? So I chose shabu and spicy dishes.”

She immediately glued her eyes to her phone to hide her flustered expression.

Bonnie stared at her.

“…How did you know my favorite food?” she asked slowly.

“You told Phi Milk before. I just heard it in passing,” Emi replied quickly.

Bonnie raised a brow.

But Emi looked away, trying to act casual.

What she didn’t admit was that she already knew Bonnie’s favorite dishes… from stalking Bonnie’s Instagram for months.

Restroom 

Milk was already waiting inside, leaning against the counter with a smug little smirk on her lips.

The moment Love stepped into the restroom, she didn’t even dare meet Milk’s eyes.

She rushed to explain, words spilling out in panic.

“Phi Miw, I....I didn’t talk to them, okay? I didn’t even look at them. It wasn’t me, it was Bonnie. I swear I didn’t...”

When she didn’t get any reaction, she finally looked up…

And saw Milk smiling.

“You!!! Are you joking with me?” Love pouted, cheeks puffed, eyes wide.

“You’re cute, you know that?” Milk said, leaning in to kiss Love’s pouting lips, instantly stopping the pout.

Love blinked, now blushing. “Why are we here, exactly? I’m hungry.”

“I want to make a bet,” Milk said seriously, well, as serious as she could while still looking like she wanted to kiss Love again.

“A bet? What bet?”

“What happened earlier...”

“That’s not nice, Phi Miw,” Love cut her off. “Putting hot sauce in someone’s drink!”

Milk lifted her hands defensively. “Nong, it wasn’t me. Hear me out first.”

Love stared at her, waiting.

“It was all Emi’s idea,” Milk said, trying not to laugh. “When we got back and saw those guys flirting at our table, I saw you ignoring them but Bonnie entertaining them. And you know what?”

“What?” Love asked, curious despite herself.

“I was right. Emi was furious.” Milk grinned. “But she wasn’t looking at you. She was looking at Bonnie.”

Love stared at her, still doubtful.

“You still don’t believe me? Fine, let’s bet.”

Milk leaned closer, eyes glowing with confidence.

“If I prove Emi likes Bonnie… not only will I tell you ‘I told you so,’ my mission to find Namtan a girlfriend is cancelled.”

Love frowned, thinking.

She did see Emi and Bonnie bickering earlier in a way that didn’t feel… normal.

But Milk’s overconfidence made her doubt herself.

And honestly… did she even want Milk helping Namtan find someone? Namtan was a player, and finding her a match would probably take years.

Love realized something in that moment their situation, their kisses, waking up in each other’s rooms, the way Milk held her hand as if it was natural, they were already acting like a couple. And seeing other girls around Milk at work made Love want to… claim her.

She sighed softly.

“Fine. I agree,” Love said. “If Emi really likes Bonnie, you don’t have to find anyone for Namtan. But if I’m right, you still have to find a girlfriend for both Namtan and Emi.” 

Love just hoping that Milk was right.

Milk grinned triumphantly. “Bet.”

She leaned in, kissing Love slowly, warm, deliberate, sealing the deal.

When they pulled back, Milk brushed her thumb across Love’s cheek and whispered against her lips:

“To seal the deal.”

After lunch, they all returned to the meeting room. When the four teams finally agreed on the plan, their reactions were… mixed.

Emi was pissed.

Bonnie was smiling.

Milk wore a knowing smile.

And Love still cant see what Milk meant earlier because all Emi and Bonnie did during the meeting was bicker nonstop.

When the meeting ended, Milk invited Love and Bonnie to have dinner at her parents’ house. 

All four headed toward the parking lot. Milk told her secretary to load the things she needed for tomorrow’s site visit into her car. She already knew Love and Bonnie didn’t bring theirs.

As they walked, Milk leaned close and whispered to Love, “Whatever I do later, please don’t be jealous of our daughter.”

Love eyed her suspiciously. What is she planning now?

Milk cleared her throat. “I can only bring one person in my car. My back seat is full of things for tomorrow. So…” She smiled at Emi and Love. “I’ll bring Bonnie with me.”

“What?” Emi blurted, surprising both Love and Bonnie.

Milk only smiled wider and opened the passenger door for Bonnie.

Bonnie glanced at Milk, shrugged, and slid into the seat. Love wanted to pout, she wanted to ride with Milk but when she turned to ask Emi to drive them, she froze. Emi was glaring at the disappearing car like it had insulted her ancestors.

Oh my Phi Milk… she might be right, Love thought.

Inside Milk’s Car

“Phi Milk, I know you’re secretly dating Love,” Bonnie said. “Why bring me instead?”

“Nong, can I ask you something?”

“Of course, Phi.”

“You and Nong Emi are always fighting. Do you hate her?”

Bonnie chuckled. “Of course not. We just disagree on everything. She’s too ‘safety first’ and keeps dismissing my designs. Irritating, yes. Hate? No. Why ask?”

“Are you okay dating girls?”

“Of course, Phi. Love is love. …Still didn’t answer my question.”

“What if Nong Emi likes you? Would you consider dating her?”

Bonnie blinked, then shrugged. “She’s hot, so why not? She irritates me, but I like looking at pretty faces. But Phi, why are you asking all this?”

Milk smiled. “Because you’re my daughter. I’ll tell you the truth, I think Nong Emi likes you.”

Bonnie laughed at Milk calling her a daughter, but she liked it. “Mom, she’s always picking a fight with me. That’s not like.”

Milk stopped at a red light, turned to Bonnie, and asked, “Want to find out today if I’m right?”

Curiosity won. Bonnie nodded. “Alright.”

Inside Emi’s Car

Emi tried hard not to explode, but small things set her off, like a driver cutting in without a signal. She ranted, Love listening in disbelief.

“Relax, Phi Emi,” Love said. It was the first time she’d seen Emi this irritated around her.

And now Love herself wasn’t too happy. She knew Milk would come to her later, smirking, and say I told you so.

At the Mansion

Milk and Bonnie arrived first. Milk told Bonnie to wait with her so they could greet Emi and Love.

When Emi’s car entered the parking, Milk quickly got out, opened the door for Bonnie, and instructed Bonnie to lean against the car. Milk placed both hands on Bonnie’s shoulders.

A long honk echoed. Emi’s car stopped abruptly, and the door slammed loudly.

Milk couldn’t see her back was to Emi but she heard it.

“PHI MILK! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?” Emi shouted, grabbing Milk’s shoulders to pull her away.

Love stood frozen, shocked at the scene. But when Bonnie winked at her, she realized Milk and Bonnie are scheming.

“Oh, Nong, you’re here,” Milk said cheerfully. “Come on, Nong Love. Let’s go inside. Mom and Mae are waiting.”

She walked past Emi, grabbed Love’s hand, and pulled her toward the house.

Emi stood there stunned, Bonnie raising a brow at her.

“We’re late. We need to go inside,” Emi muttered, wanting to bury herself in the parking lot. When? How did Phi Milk figure it out?

The smirk on Milk’s face said it all. This was a setup.

“Why did you react like that, Emi? Do you like me?” Bonnie asked.

Emi hated how that smirk looked on Bonnie, smug, confident, challenging. She wanted to wipe it off.

Emi sighed, walked slowly toward her, and Bonnie didn’t move, she waited, almost daring her.

Emi leaned in and kissed her hoping to erase that smirk.

But she knew that even while she kissed her, Bonnie was still smiling.

Inside the Mansion

When Milk and Love entered, Mae Orm greeted them warmly and said dinner wasn’t ready yet. She told Milk to show Love her room first. When she asked where Emi and Bonnie were, Milk casually answered:

“Making out in the parking lot.”

Then she laughed and dragged Love upstairs.

Inside Milk’s Room

The moment the door closed, Milk kissed Love.

Love had been expecting it, Milk always kissed her when the door shut.

When Milk pulled back, she whispered, “Be my girlfriend, Nong Love.”

Love nodded. She walked right into Milk’s scheme and she was happy she did.

Milk’s smile lit up her entire face. “Yes!” she said, before kissing Love again.

They were still kissing when the door opened.

A loud gasp.

Emi stood there, pointing. “When did this start? You two are dating?!”

“Oh, Nong Emi, just now. you kissing at the parking lot make Nong Love said yes to be my girlfrie

nd,” Milk said with a smirk.

“I thought you were still moving on,” Emi said.

“I already moved on. Nong Love helped me,” Milk replied.

Emi opened her mouth, but Bonnie tugged her arm.

“Come on, Phi Emi. It’s been ages since I made out with someone. Let’s go to your room so you can take advantage of me.”

Emi’s face turned red, but she still dragged Bonnie away.

“That’s my daughter,” Milk said proudly.

Love could only shake her head.

Milk was about to kiss her again when Milk’s phone chimed.

“It’s okay,” Love said. “Check it first. Maybe it’s work.”

Milk pulled her phone from her pocket.

The name on the screen made her freeze.

Film.