Chapter Text
Est still couldn’t believe it happened. The fingers of his left hand still shook every time he flexed them, his gaze lingering as he admired the ring sitting perfectly on his fourth finger.
The trip to Rome alone was already special for them. It was a European fanmeet where they finally got to meet their fans – their westies and afterward, they were given a full week off.
Est had planned everything for the trip down to the smallest detail. Hotel reservations, car rental, itinerary, food selections, even matching outfits with William. They had P’Ko, their manager, P’Jak, their makeup artist, and P’Lek, their hairstylist, joining them as well.
By the end of the fanmeet, all five of them were buzzing with excitement for their little vacation.
From Rome, they traveled to the Amalfi Coast, where the world seemed to slow down just for them. The cliffs stood tall and proud, kissed by the golden glow of the sun, while pastel-colored houses clung to the mountainsides as if painted there by hand. The sea stretched endlessly. Lemon groves perfumed the air with a fresh, citrus sweetness, and narrow roads curved along the coast, revealing breathtaking views at every turn.
It was romantic in a way that felt almost unreal, like stepping into a postcard that had somehow come to life.
William had been incredibly hands-on in taking care of Est. He never let him carry his bags, fed him while he drove, prepared food on the coffee table while Est showered, and of course, held him close every night. Est lived to be the little spoon, no matter what.
They had been soaking in everything – the scenery, the food, the peace that wrapped around them like a gentle embrace. They both knew things would get busy again once they returned to Thailand, and the looming long-distance during Christmas and New Year was already waiting for them.
But for now, they wanted to savor every second they had.
They were also deeply grateful for the three members of their core team who had always supported them, quietly and wholeheartedly, in keeping their relationship safe.
Their journey had never been easy. It wasn’t filled with butterflies and unicorns. There had been too many bumps along the road, moments where letting go felt like the easier choice, times when silence was the only refuge they could find amidst tears and heartbreak.
But William held on to Est with everything he had. He refused to let go, even when it nearly cost him himself.
And God help Est, he couldn’t stand seeing William cry. That face – so handsome, so bright was meant only for smiles, for happiness.
Est had grown tired of denying himself, tired of the walls he had carefully built brick by brick over the past years.
When they finally became official, only their families, closest friends, and core team knew. The reveal was slow. They wanted control, wanted to protect the small sanctuary they were building together.
What Est didn’t expect was that during this very trip, William would do something that would catch him completely off guard in the most emotional way.
The day had started simply with morning kisses.
“Good morning,” Est stirred awake to the feeling of William peppering his cheek with kisses, arms wrapped around him from behind.
“My suay partner, good morning,” William whispered over and over, even nipping lightly at the tip of his ear, making Est shiver as he tried to hold back his giggles.
“Willy~”
“Good morning, ter,” William murmured, nuzzling into his neck. Est squirmed, trying to escape the ticklish affection, but William only tightened his hold.
“Good morning,” Est finally breathed out as he turned to face him. He was immediately greeted by William’s beautiful smile, one that never failed to wake the butterflies in his chest. Lately, they have been relentless. William had been so sweet, so openly affectionate, that Est was certain the blush on his face had become permanent.
William leaned in and captured his lips in a morning kiss. Est thought it would be a quick peck, but William deepened it, leaving him barely enough time to breathe before he melted into the kiss.
William’s lips tasted faintly of their shared toothpaste. Est could already smell their shower gel, shampoo, and perfume on him. He had clearly woken up early, gotten ready, and let Est sleep in. The thought made Est smile softly against his lips.
When William finally pulled away, both of them breathless, Est couldn’t stop smiling as he looked into his eyes. William simply leaned forward again, gently brushing their noses together.
“Long day today. Breakfast is served,” William muttered.
Est nodded, eyes closing as William pressed a soft kiss to his forehead before letting him go and getting out of bed.
Est stayed still for a moment, taking a deep breath before sitting up, the duvet pooling around his waist as he looked around the room.
William stood by the coffee table, arranging the breakfast he must have ordered from room service. He was already dressed for the day and God, he looked breathtaking, especially with the Amalfi morning sun spilling through the window and catching on him just right.
Est’s chest tightened with warmth. Every single day, he thanked the heavens for this – for William, for the way their lives had intertwined.
Years of hidden pain, heartbreak, and self-doubt were slowly being healed by William’s quiet, steady presence. He wasn’t lying when he told a fan on one of the fan chats that William gives him stability and that is another reason why he loves this young man with all his heart.
They were still young. William had just turned twenty, barely out of his teenage years, yet he carried a kind of maturity that people would never expect from the playful persona he showed on camera. He wasn’t someone who expressed himself easily with words, but his actions spoke volumes. Est didn’t even have the words to fully describe it.
“No breakfast with P’Ko today?” Est asked as he finally got up and made his way to the bathroom to wash his face.
“No, they went out early,” William replied.
Est peeked out from behind the door, his face covered in cleanser foam, expression curious enough to make William laugh.
“P’Ko wanted to check out a ceramics shop and dragged P’Jak with him. P’Lek didn’t have a choice after that,” William added with a shrug.
Est huffed softly before returning to the sink. P’Ko had been trying to figure out how to bring home a few classic pieces from Vietri without any of them breaking on the flight back.
Breakfast was slow and unhurried, filled with easy conversation about their past few days. Est realized he hadn’t stopped smiling as William excitedly recalled their time at Sentiero dei Limoni, insisting he had “never seen so many lemons in his life.”
They had taken countless photos, both wanting to preserve every moment. William even brought his vlogging camera, though they still hadn’t decided if they would actually post anything. Their westies would definitely love to see glimpses of their trip, but at the same time, this vacation felt too special. Est almost wanted to keep it all to themselves, at least for now. They had agreed to let their three companions post a few photos and clips, knowing it would be enough to tease their ever-supportive, slightly clingy fandom.
After breakfast, Est was about to shower when he noticed a neatly prepared set of clothes hanging behind the bathroom door. He raised an eyebrow at William, who only gave him a sheepish grin.
“What? We have to match,” William said, making Est laugh as he stepped inside.
By the time Est came out, fully dressed and ready, William was slouched lazily on one of the single couches, scrolling through his phone.
“All done?” William looked up, his face immediately lighting up as Est approached. He stood up, slipped his phone into his pocket, and instinctively wrapped his arms around Est’s waist.
“I still can’t believe how tiny they’re getting,” William murmured, pulling him close.
Est rolled his eyes but rested his arms on William’s shoulders. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“You’re so beautiful, phi,” William said softly before kissing him again, stealing away all the lip balm Est had just applied. Est squirmed slightly when William gave his waist a gentle squeeze.
“William!” Est protested, lightly slapping his chest as he pulled back, trying to catch his breath. William only laughed, reaching up to fix Est’s hair.
“My beautiful phi, whose beauty could rival the Amalfi Coast –”
“Stop it! You’re being cheesy again,” Est tried to wiggle out of his hold, but William kept him in place.
“Phi.” The shift in tone made Est pause.
“Hm?”
“I know you have plans for today.”
Est frowned slightly as he tried to recall his itinerary. “Honestly,” he admitted with a small smile, “it’s our last day here before we go back to Rome, so I didn’t plan much. We’ve already done a lot of sightseeing. I was just planning to eat desserts today.”
William laughed at that. Of course. Their goal of trying ice cream and desserts in every country they visited would always be at the top of Est’s list.
“Okay,” William nodded. “Then what if I tell you I have plans today?”
“What?” Est blinked and then he laughed, thinking William was joking but then he continued speaking.
“Yes, nong luk Est. This handsome boyfriend of yours has plans to take you out on a date.”
“Wha – what?” Est stared at him, still processing, which earned him an offended pout.
“Oho! I am very capable of planning a date, you know –”
Est laughed, gently booping his nose. “That’s not what I meant. I just – Willy, really?”
William has been so busy lately. They barely saw each other, both drowning in their schedules. He had even gotten sick after a week of nonstop work. And with the confirmation of his role as Kritdanai Rome Arseni in Me and Thee, the entire fandom had gone into a frenzy, pulling him into promotions one way or another.
For him to plan something behind Est’s back…
“I know how carefully you planned everything,” William said, his voice softer now as he held Est close. “And I know the last day is usually more relaxed, so I thought I’d take this one.”
“William…”
“It’s not much. I didn’t have time for reservations and planning, but…” he grinned. “I hope you’ll like it.”
“When have I ever disliked anything you planned?” Est replied gently.
William giggled. “Well, phi, everyone says you bagged a Valentine boy.”
Est laughed softly, resting his forehead against William’s shoulder. It was true. Everyone – from friends to fans to casual observers had been teasing him about it.
“Alright,” Est said after a moment, lifting his head to meet William’s eyes. “Take me out on a date then, Valentine boy.”
William leaned in and kissed him again before finally letting him go.
“Let’s go?” William asked, reaching for his hand.
“Let’s.”
When Est recalled everything that transpired today, part of him felt like everything was too good to be true. It may even take him five business days to process everything.
When they reached the lobby, Est was surprised that someone was already waiting for them. The man, Aurelio greeted them in English, accent heavy but clear. He nodded at William and led them out.
“I don’t have an international license yet and I do not want you to drive,” William said as they followed Aurelio towards another rented car. “So I hired someone for the day.”
William made it sound so simple, as if that would make Est’s heart to calm down just by hearing him say that.
“You’re really…” Est couldn’t even find his next words which just made William laugh as he opened the car door and he let him enter the backseat first, even raising his hand to protect Est’s head and then he followed. Aurelio closed the door and headed to the driver’s seat.
William was quick to reach out to and hold Est’s hand once they settled down and the car started moving.
“I don’t want to ask where we are going,” Est muttered, making William chuckle.
“Yeah, I won’t say too. That would ruin the surprise,” William replied.
“Do I get to assume that P’Ko, P’Jak, and P’Lek got a hand in this?” He raised his brow while William smiled at him sheepishly.
“The ceramic escapade is true,” William gave his hand a squeeze. “But yes, I had to ask help for… some parts.”
Est continued to raise his brow while William just continued to grin at him.
The drive was filled with little stories here and there. There is never a quiet moment between them, both wanting to share a little something they remember out of nowhere.
Est couldn’t help but feel something flip inside him when William would just randomly raise their joined hands and kiss the back of his hand, no words, no explanation, no reason whatsoever. He would just look at him like it was the most natural thing to do.
When they reached the coast, Aurelio told them they’ll meet them later.
“Where?” Est asked but William just led him towards the row of boats waiting.
“Oh.”
Capri Island had been part of his initial plan but he had troubles with reservations, boats, and guides.
How did Wiliam even –
From the moment they stepped onto the boat, Est already had a feeling that the day would stay with him forever.
The sea stretched endlessly around them, a deep, luminous blue that seemed almost unreal under the sunlight. The boat cut through the water with a soft rhythm, leaving trails of white foam behind them as the wind brushed gently against their skin.
Est stood by the edge, one hand gripping the railing while the other was firmly held by William, who refused to let go as if the simplest act of holding hands was already something precious.
Capri revealed itself slowly. Towering cliffs rose dramatically from the sea, softened by patches of green and bursts of flowers clinging to the rocks. The island felt like a dream suspended between sky and water. The sunlight danced on the waves, reflecting against the limestone, making everything glow in soft gold and pale ivory.
The moment the boat docked on the shore, they were welcomed by a guide named Gaia. Est could only eye William who just grinned at him as he guided him down the boat.
Gaia was thorough with pointing and explaining things to them but she also made sure to give them some time to soak everything on their own.
William stayed close the entire time. His hand would brush against Est’s lower back when they walked, guiding him gently through narrow paths lined with boutiques and cafés. He would fix Est’s hair when the wind got too playful, wipe away a stray bit of cream from the corner of his lips when they shared desserts, and look at him like there was nothing else in the world worth seeing.
They wandered without rushing. They took photos everywhere, laughing when William insisted on retaking shots because “the lighting wasn’t doing you justice,” even though Est looked breathtaking in every single one. Est caught William stealing candid shots of him too, especially when he wasn’t looking – when he was staring out at the sea, or laughing mid-conversation, or simply existing in a quiet moment.
Gaia was a very talented photographer too, trained by years of experience as a private tour guide. She took their couple photos, even directing them to do some cute poses that got Est blushing while William laughed in pure delight.
Usually, it was one of the three who takes their couple photos and they don’t direct them, they just let them pose on their own. Having Gaia create poses that captured their moments got Est excited for the results.
They stopped for desserts more times than they could count. Lemon sorbet served in hollowed-out lemons, creamy gelato that melted too quickly under the sun, delicate pastries that tasted as soft as the air around them. William made it a point to feed Est every time, holding the spoon up patiently even when Est rolled his eyes before giving in anyway.
It was easy, being with William like that. Easy and warm and safe.
By the time the sky began to shift into softer hues, the golden brightness slowly melting into shades of orange and pink, Est thought that the day had already reached its peak.
He was wrong.
After bidding goodbye to Gaia and they rode the boat back to Amalfi Coast, Aurelio was waiting for them.
Est didn’t realize it at first. The drive itself was already breathtaking, the narrow coastal roads winding along cliffs with the sea stretching endlessly beside them. But when they arrived and Est stepped out of the car, he froze.
Positano glowed under the fading light. The houses, stacked one on top of another along the mountainside, shimmered in warm tones of peach, cream, and soft yellow. Down below, the shoreline curved gently, waves brushing against the sand in a steady, soothing rhythm.
And there, by the beach, was something waiting for them.
“William,” Est muttered, breathless as William led him with his hand on his lower back, gentle and soft.
They were welcomed by a picnic setup, intimate and softly lit. Fairy lights and candles flickered against the night breeze, their glow reflecting on glassware and carefully arranged dishes. A low table sat atop layered blankets, decorated with flowers that looked almost too delicate to be real. It was quiet, tucked away just enough to feel like it belonged only to them.
Est turned to William, eyes already glassy, but what struck him even more was watching William speak to the staff, thanking them, making sure everything was perfect, his tone polite and sincere.
There was no show, no performance. Just real and sincere effort.
And it hit Est all at once.
This wasn’t something thrown together. This was something William had thought about. Planned. Wanted.
He said he did not have much time for reservation and planning… then what is this? Est knew that the three may have a hand on this but with the way William was leading and the way he was properly communicating with their driver, guide, and even the staff, Est could tell he was hands on with everything.
“Hey,” William’s voice was soft as his hand cupped his face, thumb caressing Est’s cheek as he realized how glassy his eyes were.
“Don’t cry.”
“I’m not!” He sounded defensive even to his own ears but Est kept the pout on his lips as he glared at him. William just laughed as he reached for his hand again and led him to their set up.
Est couldn’t help but take photos after his eyes soaked in everything around him. He took several stolen shots of William who was busy checking the candles on the table. His heart felt so warm and full, he thinks it’ll burst anytime soon.
They settled into the picnic as the sun began to dip lower, the horizon melting into a breathtaking blend of gold and crimson.
The food came one after another, showcasing Amalfi’s signature dishes of pasta and lemon flavors. They ate slowly, talked softly, their voices blending with the sound of the waves. Every now and then, their hands would find each other, fingers intertwining like it was second nature.
William raised his wine glass and tipped it towards Est.
“Forever,” William muttered, voice so soft that it felt like it was carried by the wind. Est smiled as he raised his own glass as well. The taste of the white wine mixed with a hint of lemon flavor captured Est’s tongue that he had to close his eyes to savor the drink.
“You like it?” William asked, watching him.
“This tastes so good.”
“Yeah, they said it’s their signature and I knew we had to try it,” William replied as he took another sip.
Est couldn’t help but stare. William’s attention to details never fails to tickle something inside Est. William would often put down himself over these things – his attention to details, his planning, his efforts… and yet he always gives a hundred and one percent and Est would always make sure that he knows that.
When the sun finally disappeared, the sky deepened into a rich, endless blue. Stars began to appear, scattered across the night, their reflections shimmering faintly on the water. The moon casts a silver glow over the coastline, making everything feel softer, more intimate.
Est found himself getting lost at the scenic view in front of him. He has never imagined that transferring companies, attending the casting, giving his Instagram handle to the damn teenager who threw lines with him and he ghosted for months would bring him to this state.
He let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “This is… too much,” he whispered, his voice trembling slightly as he turned to face William who has been staring at him for heaven knows how long. “Willy… Thank you. For everything. For today. For… all of this.” He waved his hand in the air, he felt himself shiver a little.
William didn’t say anything right away. He simply moved to get closer to him and pulled Est into his arms, holding him close, one hand cradling the back of his head as if grounding him there.
Est let himself melt in William’s embrace. After his family, William’s arms have been the safest place for him. He buried his face on William’s shoulder, inhaling the familiar scent of their perfume, salt, sand, and something so naturally William.
He couldn’t help but whisper a silent prayer, “heavens please, let me have this. Let me keep this.”
After a moment, William gently pulled him up to stand. He guided him closer to the shoreline, where the waves rolled in and out, brushing against the sand in a steady rhythm.
William wrapped his arms around Est from behind, resting his chin lightly on his shoulder. The gentle movement made Est close his eyes, his body naturally leaning back into him. They stood there, listening to the ocean, feeling the cool night air against their skin.
And then William started swaying them side to side, face buried on the crook of Est’s neck.
They swayed slowly, gently, like they were dancing to a song only they could hear.
Est smiled, his hands resting over William’s arms and for a moment, everything felt still.
Then William let go.
Est turned, confusion flickering in his eyes as William stepped in front of him, reaching out to hold both of his hands.
“Phi,” William began, his voice softer than Est had ever heard it.
Est’s brows furrowed slightly, sensing the shift.
“I know I’m young,” William continued, his eyes locked on Est’s. “And I know there are still so many things I have to learn, so many things I have to prove. But… I’ve never been this sure about anything in my life.”
Est’s breath caught.
“I’ve thought about this for a long time,” William said, his voice trembling just slightly now.
Est watched William take several deep breaths. He watched as he wets his lips, squeezing his hands in the process. Est could only count the number of times he has seen William like this.
Nervous, anticipating with a hint of uncertainty but with deep seated confidence that only William could muster.
William looked down at their joined hands before he looked up to meet his eyes once more. His eyes had gone misty and it did something to Est’s heart. Just as he was about to speak, William continued.
“I talked to my parents,” William smiled, a small nervous smile that made something twist in Est’s gut. “I talked to your parents too…” Est’s brows furrowed. What – “... about this.”
Est blinked, confusion mixing with something else – something deeper, something he couldn’t quite name yet.
“Willy… what are you –”
And then William moved.
He dropped down on one knee.
And everything seemed to stop.
Est gasped.
William let go of his hands and from his pocket, William pulled out a small, familiar red box.
Est’s hands flew to his mouth, his vision already blurring with tears before the moment could fully register.
“Est,” William said, his voice breaking now, but his eyes never wavering. “I love you. I’ve loved you through everything… through the hard days, the distance, the doubts. And I will keep loving you, every day, for the rest of my life if you let me.”
Est was already shaking. He could hardly breathe.
“I know we are still young. We still have a long way to go,” William’s voice kept on breaking, his emotions starting to over power him. “I don’t want a future without you in it,” William whispered. “I don’t see a future without you in it.”
Est watched as William’s fingers shook as he slowly opened the box revealing a beautiful Cartier Love Ring that Est once scrolled past his phone. The tiny diamonds shone when it caught the light.
“Est… will you spend now and forever with me?”
Est broke.
The tears came all at once, uncontrollable, overwhelming. He tried to speak, but nothing came out. His chest heaved as he nodded over and over, hands still covering his mouth as if that was the only thing holding him together.
He could barely see William through his tears but he could feel it, the look and feeling of pure love coming from him.
William let out a shaky breath, tears slipping down his own face as he carefully took Est’s left hand.
His fingers trembled as he slid the ring onto Est’s ring finger.
It fit perfectly.
William stood up, and before Est could even process it, he pulled him in and kissed him.
The kiss was messy, desperate, full of tears and laughter and something so deep it felt like it might consume them both. Est could taste the salt of their tears, could feel William’s hands holding him like he was something fragile and precious all at once.
When they broke away, William rested his forehead on Est’s, both of them sniffing but with a widest smile on their faces.
“Yes,” he finally managed, barely audible. “Yes… yes, Willy…” Est’s words just brought a new batch of tears as William moved forward to claim his lips once more.
And in that moment, under the quiet glow of the moon, with the waves singing softly behind them and the world stretched wide and beautiful around them, nothing else mattered.
It was just them and the promise of everything they had yet to become.
Est was so lost in his thoughts that he squealed softly when a pair of arms suddenly wrapped around him from behind.
“What are you doing out here when you’ve already showered, hm?” William’s voice was slightly hoarse from all the tears earlier, yet it still sounded gentle against Est’s ears. He brushed his nose along the length of Est’s neck before pressing a soft kiss against his pulse, making Est shiver.
“I just needed to feel Amalfi’s air,” Est murmured, leaning back into him as William tightened his hold.
After a moment, Est slowly raised his left hand. The tiny diamonds on his ring caught the moonlight, shimmering softly. The sight alone made his lips curve into a wider smile.
William reached for his hand, lifting it a little higher as if he wanted to admire it properly.
“It’s very pretty, Willy,” Est whispered, still sounding breathless, as though he hadn’t fully caught up to reality yet.
“I knew you’d like it,” William replied softly. “Inconspicuous,” he added, his thumb brushing over the ring, lingering there. “But ours.”
“Ours,” Est echoed, turning his head to look at him.
There was a pause.
“You really mean it?” Est’s voice came out smaller than he intended. It made William’s brows knit together slightly as he slowly loosened his arms and turned Est around to face him.
“Phi?”
Est swallowed hard, his chest tightening as tears began to gather again.
“That you don’t see a future without me?”
“Phi, you –”
“Because, Willy…” A soft sob escaped him before he could stop it. This time, he reached for William’s hands, holding them tightly. “I can’t see a future without you either.”
“Oh, ter…”
“Every day, I pray to anyone listening out there…” Est’s voice broke as his tears finally fell. “I pray that I’m allowed to keep this.” He lifted their joined hands slightly. “That I’ll do anything to keep this.”
“P’Est…” William didn’t let him continue. He pulled him into his arms, holding him firmly, one hand rubbing his back while the other cradled the back of his head, gently patting him as Est cried against him.
“Every day, I pray the same, ter,” William murmured into his hair. “I pray to be the best person for you, so I can keep you… so I can keep this.”
“Willy…” Est sobbed. “I don’t need you to be the best. You know that.”
“Mm. I know,” William let out a soft, breathy chuckle, though his own eyes were already filling with tears.
“I just need you as you are.”
“Well then…” William slowly pulled back just enough to look at him. He laughed quietly as he wiped Est’s tears with his thumbs. “You have me.”
That only made Est cry harder.
“Oho, what do I do now?” William tried to lighten the mood, his tone playful despite everything. “Nong luk Est became a crybaby after getting engaged.”
The word engaged only made Est break down even more.
William couldn’t help but smile fondly, his chest overflowing with love as he wiped Est’s tears again before gently cupping his face.
“I love you, P’Est.”
“I love you too, Will. So much.”
“Me too.”
William rose slightly on his toes, and Est instinctively leaned down, meeting him halfway as William placed a soft, lingering kiss on his forehead.
“P’Est,” William said, smiling when their eyes met again.
“Hm?”
“I just need to know…” William hesitated, uncertainty slipping into his voice. Est’s brows furrowed as he looked at him, eyes still puffy from crying, nose slightly red, lips pursed. The sight made William smile faintly, but he continued, “That you really want this. That it wasn’t just… just –”
Est moved forward and pressed a quick kiss to his lips, cutting him off.
When he pulled back, he sniffled lightly. “Are my tears not enough to prove how much I want this, huh?”
William laughed softly. “Okay, okay. I get it.”
“I understand,” Est muttered, wiping his face a little. “We’re still young. Especially you.”
“I’m twenty.”
“Exactly. Young.”
“Other people get engaged much younger than me.”
That made Est laugh, shaking his head. Trust William to say something like that at a time like this.
“Yeah, but…” Est smiled softly. “You know what I mean.”
William pressed his lips into a thin line before nodding.
“I still need details, though.”
“About?”
“How you talked to your parents. My parents. Oh God, Willy –”
William burst out laughing, his head tilting back even though their bodies were still close together.
“Did I mention I talked to P’Earn too?”
“William!” The sheer horror on Est’s face only made William laugh harder.
Est had no idea how his parents and his sister managed to keep this from him, but he could already imagine his sister teasing him endlessly once they got back.
“Okay, serious now,” Est said, lightly slapping William’s chest to stop him.
William pressed his lips together, trying to compose himself, which only made Est roll his eyes.
“But I get it, okay?” Est took a deep breath. “There’s still a long way ahead of us.”
William nodded.
“We both love our careers too,” William added because it’s true. They have a lot of goals they want to achieve while having each other’s back.
“Yes,” Est smiled softly. “I still need to see LYKN, William LYKN, William Jakrapatr conquer the world. Build a legacy no one can ever take away from you.”
William laughed, cheeks lifting.
“And I still need to see Est Supha take over every fashion brand and every fashion week out there.”
Now it was Est’s turn to laugh. These were the dreams they whispered about late at night, when everything else fell quiet and all that remained were their hopes for the future.
“And I mean…” William leaned closer, brushing his nose against Est’s. “I can’t see my future without you, phi.” He paused, then shook his head slightly. “No. I don’t want to see a future without you.”
Est inhaled sharply.
“Let this engagement be a promise,” William whispered, his voice so soft it felt like a secret meant only for them. “A promise of everything that’s still to come.”
“And a promise,” Est added, his voice steadier now, “that we won’t let go.”
“Never.”
Est laughed softly before leaning in and kissing him again, this time cradling William’s head in his hands. William smiled into the kiss, deepening it slowly, savoring it.
When they finally pulled back just enough to breathe, William’s voice came out low, slightly rough.
“How… Do you want it this time?”
Est let out a quiet chuckle, their foreheads still touching.
“I just want to feel you, Willy,” he whispered. “All of you. Take your time.”
William hummed softly in response before capturing his lips again, slower this time, he already knew exactly what he wanted.
The moment Est’s back met the soft mattress, the air seemed to shift.
William hovered over him almost immediately, fingers already moving to unbutton his own pajama top before reaching for Est’s. The fabric parted slowly under his careful hands, exposing warm skin that seemed to glow under the dim light of the room.
Even though Est usually preferred to sleep without anything on his upper half, he had long given in to William’s fondness for matching pajamas. There was something about it, something soft and domestic that made his chest feel full in a way he couldn’t quite put into words.
Est found it endearing. He always did.
The first time they had crossed this line, Est had guided him gently, showing him what he liked, what felt right. Much like the way he had taught William how to kiss – slow, patient, filled with quiet laughter and a bit of awkwardness that eventually melted into something natural.
William had learned quickly. He always did. Curious, attentive, eager in a way that made Est feel seen rather than overwhelmed.
Since then, they have discovered each other in different ways. Different rhythms, different moments, different versions of closeness that taught them how to read each other without needing to ask.
And yet tonight felt… different.
Softer. Deeper.
As if everything they had learned had led them here.
William lowered himself slowly, his lips brushing against Est’s skin with a kind of reverence that made Est’s breath catch.
Every kiss lingered, every touch was intentional, like he was memorizing him all over again.
Est’s fingers tightened against the sheets as warmth bloomed through him, spreading slowly, steadily.
“W – Wi – William…” Est’s voice came out breathless, uneven, barely holding together as his toes curled against the mattress.
William only hummed softly in response, the sound vibrating against Est’s skin as his lips continued their slow, unhurried path. There was no urgency in him, only patience and care.
Est had told him to take his time and William listened.
He always listened.
It wasn’t just the way William touched him, it was the way he held him, the way one of his hands remained steady against his side, grounding him even as everything else felt like it was drifting. It was the way his kisses softened whenever Est’s breathing hitched too sharply, as if silently reminding him that there was no rush, that he was right there.
Est exhaled shakily, one hand eventually leaving the sheets to find William instead, fingers threading gently through his hair. The simple act pulled a quiet sound from William, something soft and warm, something that made Est’s chest ache in the best way.
“Willy…” he whispered again, this time softer, less strained, more certain.
William lifted his head just enough to meet his eyes and for a moment, everything stilled. There was no distance between them, not even in silence. Just warmth, just understanding, just something so full it almost felt overwhelming.
“You okay?” William murmured, his voice low, careful.
Est nodded, his fingers brushing lightly against William’s cheek, his thumb tracing the faint dampness left behind by earlier tears.
“More than okay,” he whispered back.
William’s expression softened further at that, something in his gaze shifting into quiet relief, into something deeper than words could hold. He leaned down again, but this time it wasn’t just about the kisses, it was about closeness. About being there.
Their movements stayed slow, unhurried, as if time itself had softened around them. Every touch felt like a promise, every breath shared between them carrying something unspoken but understood.
Est let himself sink into it fully this time, no hesitation, no lingering thoughts pulling him away. Just William. Just the warmth of his presence, the steadiness of his hands, the quiet devotion in every little thing he did.
And William, in return, held him like something precious. He held him like someone he had chosen, over and over again, without doubt.
There was no need for anything more.
Not when everything they were saying to each other didn’t need words at all.
“Ter, are you asleep?” William asked softly, tilting his head just enough to look down at him.
Est only hummed in response, already sinking deeper into the warmth of William’s chest. His eyes were closed, his entire body loose and content, like he had finally let go of everything weighing on him.
The sight alone made William’s chest tighten in the gentlest way. He lifted his hand and used the back of his finger to lightly stroke the bridge of Est’s nose.
It made Est scrunch his nose unconsciously, earning a quiet smile from William.
“Does the future scare you?”
William’s question cut through the calm.
Est’s eyes fluttered open almost immediately. His body protested, heavy with sleep and exhaustion, but he pushed himself up slightly just to meet William’s gaze.
“William?”
William pressed his lips into a small, almost sheepish smile as he shook his head lightly.
“I mean… the future-future.”
That made Est let out a soft laugh, his voice still rough from sleep.
“You mean…”
“Yeah.”
They both flushed at the unspoken word hanging between them.
Married.
William pulled him closer instinctively, tightening his hold just a little.
“If the future doesn’t scare you, then you’re probably not dreaming big enough.”
Est’s words made William huff softly, but before he could respond, Est lightly slapped his chest, still half-laughing.
“I’m scared of it. A lot.”
William nodded against him. “Me too.”
Silence settled between them again, softer this time. Est’s fingers began tracing absentminded circles on William’s chest, his mind slowly drifting somewhere deeper.
“You know… I’ve been talking to P’Ou a lot lately.”
“Yeah,” William murmured, his fingers automatically threading through Est’s hair, gentle and familiar.
“Our Europe trip is going to be his last one as an unmarried man.”
That made William chuckle quietly, nodding.
Daou – Est’s best friend had proposed publicly to Offroad during his last concert. It was loud, emotional, unforgettable.
William could still remember that night so clearly. Est had been crying openly, surrounded by their group of friends in the VIP seats, while Daou slipped the ring onto Offroad’s finger. William had held Est’s hand the entire time, grounding him, and by the end of it, he had pulled him into a tight embrace, not even caring about the cameras that caught everything.
The internet had gone wild after that. Clips, photos, reactions. Even the hashtag #WilliamEstNext had trended for days.
They had both ignored it. That moment belonged to Daou and Offroad.
Now, their wedding date was set, and Daou had invited his closest friends on a “stag party – European trip edition.”
Est had pouted when he told William about it. They had already planned a trip to Japan together, something quieter, something they both looked forward to. They planned to enjoy the snow until it was time to meet up with the GMMTV staff for the Tokyo fan day. It was supposed to be time spent with William’s family too.
But plans changed and William understood.
Daou was taking a step that meant everything and he has been one of the steady pillars in Est’s life even before he became a star. Est would want to be with him every step of the way.
Daou has even expressed that he was going to take a hiatus after their wedding to focus on their newly married life.
“He keeps talking about his plans,” Est continued softly. “He asks for our opinions on everything.”
William hummed, his chest rising and falling steadily beneath Est’s touch.
“They want to start a family after they get married,” Est added, his voice thoughtful. “They’ve already started looking into doctors and clinics for the procedure.”
William’s fingers paused for just a second before continuing their gentle rhythm through Est’s hair.
Est noticed of course.
He lifted his head slightly, looking up at him.
“We still have a long way to go,” Est said with a small chuckle. Then he hesitated, lips pressing together before softening into a quiet smile. “But… would you want that too, Willy?”
The question caught William off guard.
Of course, he understood what Est meant.
Over time, the world has changed. What once seemed impossible had become reality. There were options now, paths that allowed couples like them to build families in ways that once felt out of reach. It wasn’t new anymore. It was something people talked about, planned for, dreamed about.
“P’Est… that’s…” William trailed off, unsure how to even begin answering.
Est chuckled softly and reached up to boop his nose.
“You’re the one who brought up the scary future.”
William let out a breathy laugh, shaking his head as a blush crept across his face.
“That was… well…”
“Yeah?” Est raised a brow teasingly, which made William throw his free arm over his eyes.
“P’Est…” he groaned, sounding completely defeated.
That only made Est laugh again, softer this time.
“We both know we want a family, Willy.”
William took a slow breath before lowering his arm, his eyes meeting Est’s again.
“And we have a long way to go,” Est continued gently, reaching for William’s hand and intertwining their fingers. “For now… it’s just a possibility.”
“A possibility,” William echoed, nodding as he gave Est’s hand a small, reassuring squeeze.
Est rested his head back against his chest, but his mind lingered on the thought.
Him, William and a little one.
The image formed so easily, so naturally, that it made warmth bloom deep inside his chest.
For now, it was just a dream.
But it was theirs and that was enough.
They didn’t talk about it again for a long time.
Until a few years later.