A sense of tension lingered in the air as Achara observed Than, her voice carrying a subtle edge."Than, that's my brother approaching the hospital," she murmured.Techno and Marry maintained their gaze, awaiting Than's response."Then it's good," Than replied, his eyes betraying a hint of concern.Achara rolled her eyes, voicing her worry about the journalists present."Many journalists are here. If they see my brother in this condition, who knows what they'll write."Than, contemplating the situation, lowered his eyes and asked, "So what should we do? They won't budge without the full story."Achara, struck by a sudden idea, shared her plan."Than and I will go to the roof, keeping an eye on my brother's car. We'll notify you and Marry as soon as the car enters the hospital premises."Curiosity evident in her expression, Mary inquired, "Where will we be?"Achara outlined the details, "No one knows you and Techno. When we spot my brother's car, we'll inform you. Simultaneously, you both run in opposite directions, shouting 'Koaa Neptune comes to that side.' Trust me, no journalist will be standing there, listening to my brother."The plan unfolded seamlessly. The Stranger's car came to a halt at the main entrance, and he hurried towards Nil. With doctors' approval, he entered the operation room, placing a flower beside Nil's bed and tenderly kissing his forehead. Stepping outside, the Stranger prayed fervently. After fifteen tense minutes, Dr. Atid emerged with reassuring news."We successfully removed the bullet. Hopefully, in the next 24 hours, he will open his eyes."Amidst the jubilant celebration, an unexpected force emerged-lava. The atmosphere, initially filled with joy, shifted as people embraced each other. Yet, when Stranger moved to share a hug, an abrupt hesitation lingered.In a hushed moment, Lava's internal turmoil surfaced. "Nil, why did fate spare you? What repercussions await me if Kao uncovers my involvement?" Fear etched across her face as she contemplated the potential consequences. In a surge of frustration, she demanded the contract killer, Stranger, to depart Bangkok for a month.The entrance of law enforcement added a layer of complexity. They sought to engage with Stranger, prompting tension to grip Lava. Desiring an escape, she found an unexpected ally in Shian, who urged her to remain. Reluctantly agreeing, Lava understood that any deviation from the norm might cast suspicions upon her inquisitive surroundings.The austere presence of law enforcement loomed over Stranger, their inquiries slicing through the air like a surgeon's scalpel. Unfazed, Stranger responded with a measured calmness, probing the investigators with a steely gaze."Locate the perpetrator swiftly, Inspector, for I intend to requisition this operation room for their exclusive use. In parallel, Nil has endured, yet his survival teeters on the precipice of impossibility."Inspector Wirat's inquiry cut through the charged atmosphere, his words hanging in the air like unspoken echoes. Stranger's response was a single, emphatic word, uttered with a tone that brushed away any insinuations.As Inspector Wirat persisted, proposing additional security measures for Nil, Lava felt the arid grip of tension tightening in her throat. The transfer of Nil to the ICU marked a shift in the delicate dance between life and uncertainty.Achara, a steady presence in the turmoil, implored Stranger to depart momentarily. Their exchange carried the weight of concern and familial bonds."Brother, you should go now. We're here to look after him," Achara urged, a mix of care and insistence in her voice.Stranger, resolute in his vigil, resisted. "Achara, I won't leave, not until Nil awakens."Achara, pragmatic and knowing, countered, "If P.Nil sees you in this condition, he won't appreciate it. Go, at least take a shower."Merry, a voice of reason, chimed in, "P.Kaoo, Achara is right. You should go. We are here to tend to your heart."Amidst the smiles exchanged, Stranger reluctantly yielded, retracing his steps homeward. The veil of the cataract shrouded him, yet the recent events continued to unfold in his mind. The roster of potential caregivers shuffled through Stranger's thoughts, but the name Lava remained conspicuously absent. Uncle Tham, Merry, and Techno recognizing the need for support, orchestrated a departure. Techno, perceptive to Merry's concern, spoke with a gentle cadence."Merry, I understand your apprehension for Nil. I've kept you informed about everything transpiring here, but now you should go and find some rest."As nightfall enveloped the scene, Lava and Shian followed suit, leaving a trio comprised of Than, Achara, and Techno. In the quietude that settled, Nil's mother maintained a vigil of prayer, her heart entwined with hope.A poignant moment unfolded as a flower, released from Lord Krishna's hand, descended to her feet. A silent reassurance echoed through the gesture, and she embraced Sonali, understanding that Nil was on the path to recovery. The media, having gleaned the positive turn, respectfully withdrew.Stranger, stepping forward, ushered the departing crowd away. Achara, her concern palpable, sought confirmation."Are you sure, brother?"Stranger's response held a conviction rooted in care. "You all need rest. The doctors permit one person to stay, and it's prudent for me to be there for him."Than, casting a glance of understanding, added, "Please keep us informed. If you require anything, a call is all it takes. I'm just a call away."As the trio of Than, Techno, and Achara departed together, the scene transitioned to the hushed confines of the ICU, where Nil lay in a room brimming with the quiet intensity of hope and healing.Entering the dimly lit room, Stranger tenderly clasped Nil's hand and pressed a kiss upon his forehead. His voice, laced with a mix of emotions, echoed in the quiet space."Nil, observe the tranquil repose in your sleep; you must find joy in tormenting me like this."Suddenly, tears welled up, and Stranger continued, the weight of his emotions pouring forth."I've never shed tears like this before, Nil. I was overwhelmed to see you in that state. You are my life, my breath, my everything. I love you. I love you so much, Nil."As the night, shrouded in darkness, unfolded, Stranger found an uneasy repose on a chair, his head supported by the edge of the bed. The somber scene shifted when Nil awoke, bewildered by his surroundings. Stranger, who had been steadfastly watching over him, awoke as Nil grasped his hand. Happiness radiated through Stranger as he embraced Nil, who winced in pain."Ouch," Nil exclaimed.Concerned and possessive, Stranger inquired, "Nil, are you alright?"Confused, Nil questioned Stranger about the unusual display of affection."Stranger, I'm fine. What's happening, and why are you behaving like this?"Stranger, with a gentle smile, replied, "Nothing, just relaxing, your humble servant at your service, sir."Nil, playfully lowering his gaze, remarked, "Stop being cheesy; did you hurt my back badly?"Stranger, teasingly, responded, "See, Nil, even though you're unwell, if you keep talking like that, I can't guarantee my warranty, Mr. Qing."Chuckles filled the room as they shared laughter. Nil, recalling a moment from when Stranger was asleep, hesitated before speaking."As I remember, you were in deep sleep, and I went outside. When you called my name, I turned to you, and someone..."Stranger, enveloping Nil in a comforting embrace, reassured him, "Calm down, Nil. I am with you. No one can hurt you. I'm sorry I couldn't protect you."Nil, playfully mocking, responded, "You always find ways to touch me."Stranger, earnestly, stated, "I don't need to find ways to touch you, Mr."Acknowledging Stranger's unwavering presence, Nil declared, "I'm not scared as long as you're with me. No one dares to scare or hurt me."As a gesture of gratitude and affection, Nil kissed Stranger's hand, sealing the unspoken bond between them.