In the midst of Lava's confusion and fear, Inspector Wirat adeptly used the smart key to gain access to the room. As the situation unfolded, a lady constable swiftly fastened handcuffs onto Lava's trembling hands. Panic surged through Lava, and in a desperate plea, she turned to Stranger, uttering, "Kao, help me... I love you. Everything I did was for you...""And that contemptible Nil doesn't even love you; he ran away..." she asserted, clutching at the last threads of hope. The police were poised to lead her away, but a flicker of expectation emerged as Stranger intervened, instructing them to halt. In that precarious moment, Lava held onto the belief that Stranger would be her salvation.Yet, to her dismay, rather than extending a lifeline, Stranger adjusted his attire, approached her, and delivered words that shattered her world, "Someone who was once yours can be snatched away. And I was never yours.''''And now I don't even know you."Lava's tear-filled eyes pleaded for comprehension as the police proceeded to escort her away.
Before Shian's vigilant eyes, Stranger handed him a Pendrive. With a nod, Shian headed to the police station.
Now, yearning for a cleansing shower, Stranger entered the bathroom. As the water cascaded over him, memories flooded back.Stranger and Inspector Wirat convened at the 'Penthouse Bar' restaurant. At the sight of Stranger, the Inspector discerned the depth of his broken spirit. Red and swollen eyes bore witness to Stranger's internal torment, and the absence of a smile reflected his profound anguish. Inspector Wirat extended a handshake, inquiring, "Are you alright, Kao?"Stranger's response was a muted murmur.Inspector Wirat continued, "I heard Nil had gone. Do you still want to find the murderer?"A resolute "Yes" escaped Stranger's lips.The Inspector cautiously shared, "Kao, we have tried but cannot find any enemy of yours or Nil, except..."Stranger interjected, seeking clarification, "Except who?"Inspector Wirat revealed, "Lava, your employee and friend."Stranger's deep sigh betrayed inner turmoil as he questioned, "And why do you think so?"Inspector Wirat presented evidence, displaying Lava's call records. "We have gathered all the phone call details of your employees and a few business clients. Two phone call lists stood out—one to your mother, and the other to Lava. Many of her call details were conveniently deleted, right after Nil was admitted to the hospital."Fists clenched, anger surged through Stranger. "..."Inspector Wirat emphasized, "You know very well, Nil was not the apple of her eye. She is the only one who benefits from Nil's death.""I will confront her," Stranger declared, poised to confront Lava. However, Inspector Wirat intervened, cautioning, "Lava is very clever. She even managed to delete her phone records. You have to devise a plan to make her confess her crimes."And thus, Stranger devised a strategic plan to elicit Lava's confession.In the quiet confines of the police station, Shian arrived, finding Lava already confined to the lockup, her tears flowing freely. Despite his initial reluctance, Shian approached her, silent but present.Lava pleaded amidst sobs, "Shian, please tell Kao to forgive me..."Shian, his voice laced with disdain, responded, "How can you be so shameless? Committing a crime and still expecting forgiveness?"In the depths of despair, Lava continued crying, questioning, "But how did he suspect me?"Shian disclosed, "Initially, he didn't. But two days ago, Inspector Wirat met with Kao, and they devised a plan."The weight of the truth left Lava speechless.Shian continued, "Now, there's video footage where you confess to your crime."Desperate, Lava implored, "Shian, please help me. Tell Kao I want to meet him."Shian delivered the harsh reality, "He doesn't want to see your face again. He sent all documents, bills, three-month salary, and insurance regarding your job. All the money will be transferred to your bank account, and he has permanently terminated your employment."Amidst Lava's anguished screams, Shian took the evidence to Inspector Wirat's cabin, delivering the final blow.Alone in the lockup, Lava reflected, "I lost him forever. Am I that wrong? All I wanted was to be with him," consumed by remorse.In the solitude of his hotel room, Stranger gazed at the moon, a glass of wine in hand. His eyes, slightly moist, reflected an expressionless stoicism. Meanwhile, Nil, grappling with the elusive embrace of sleep, found his thoughts consumed by Stranger. He, too, approached the window, where the full moon cast its melancholic glow, and let out a deep sigh."I've come to understand that love is the most profound vulnerability in this world. It bestows immense happiness but also instills fear, for you perpetually seek your partner's well-being. Stranger may be enduring pain, yet he has chosen a path of marriage to a suitable woman, destined to become the father of an adored child. He has seemingly forgotten me," Nil mused, a somber smile playing on his lips.The following day, Stranger found himself immersed in the monotony of office duties, sifting through documents and paperwork. Beside him, Shian persistently reminded, "You have a meeting with Ratchasakun at 4 pm today.""And Mr. Somchai wishes to meet you," Shian continued.Stranger, glancing at him, questioned, "Has he not already signed the contract?"In a hesitant tone, Shian replied, "He just wants to meet you. It might be beneficial for you—given his seniority and influence.""It's fine if he wishes to meet," mused Stranger, adding, "Arrange it for the next day."Shian nodded in acknowledgment.Stranger shifted the conversation, inquiring about the collaboration with the singer 'Zeen.' "Have they agreed to release their solo with us?""Yes," Shian affirmed, "they were elated to hear about your interest in partnering with them.""But," he hesitated, "don't you think the payment is too high for newcomers?"Stranger, with a thoughtful expression, responded, "I recognize the potential in him. If I have the means, why not provide opportunities to emerging talents?"Nil sat in the English department at college, ostensibly attempting to focus on Sir's lecture. Yet, despite his best efforts, he found himself utterly disengaged, his attention wandering effortlessly to the empty pages of the book before him. Amidst the pristine whiteness, his pen traced the name of Stranger over and over, each stroke accompanied by a subtle smile that played upon his lips.In that moment, both he and Stranger seemed to grapple with the intricate web of their interconnected lives, struggling to break free from its complexities.The following day, Stranger headed to meet Mr. Somchai. Upon entering, he noticed Mr. Somchai's daughter, Daow, was also present. After exchanging pleasantries, Mr. Somchai suggested, "You're young and successful. What about the next step?"Stranger, maintaining composure, replied, "I will keep working."Mr. Somchai then revealed Daow's feelings, "She has loved you for a long time. Due to rumors surrounding Actor Nil, I hesitated. Now, she wants to confess."Stranger, politely declining, said, "Thank you for approaching me, but I'm not ready for any commitment right now."As Mr. Somchai began to speak, Daow intervened, signaling her understanding. Once her father left, Stranger and Daow found themselves alone. Daow initiated a casual conversation, "P. Kao, how have you been?"Feeling awkward, Stranger responded, "Fine."Understanding his situation, Daow expressed, "I know everything must be challenging for you. Take your time. You don't have to say yes."Stranger offered a non-committal response, and to lighten the mood, Daow shared, "By the way, P. Kao, I am in the same college as your sister. She never mentioned it, right?"Surprised, Stranger replied, "She never told me."Daow continued, "I'm in the same department as her but in a senior year."Not wanting to prolong the conversation, Stranger politely excused himself, "If you don't mind. May I leave? I have a few urgent meetings to attend.""Yehh... sure," Daow responded, her tone gentle yet hiding a subtle reluctance."Should I drop you?" Stranger asked, a flicker of concern evident in his expression.Despite having her own driver and car at her disposal, Daow found herself inexplicably drawn to spending more time with Stranger. Silently accepting his offer, she joined him, a quiet longing stirring within her for an elusive connection she couldn't quite grasp. Unbeknownst to them, a paparazzo discreetly captured moments of Stranger and Daow together.As they journeyed together in the car, Daow's gaze repeatedly gravitated towards Stranger, her thoughts tangled in a mix of disbelief and compassion. "How foolish Nil must have been! How could someone consider leaving him?" she pondered inwardly."If I were in his place, regardless of the circumstances, I would have never left him," Daow mused silently to herself. However, throughout the ride, Stranger remained distant, his attention steadfastly fixed ahead. Despite her unspoken desire for a conversation or even a fleeting glance, the road stretched out in a cocoon of silence.Stranger stormed into the house, calling out for Ms. Nin. Sensing his urgency, she descended, inquiring, "What happened, Kao?"Stranger confronted her, "You talked to Mr. Somchai about my marriage."Ms. Nin clarified, "I didn't initiate it. He called me, inquiring about it. Daow is in the same college as Achare, and she is beautiful, wealthy, and affectionate. What's wrong with her?"Stranger asserted, "I'm not ready for anything right now."Understanding his hesitation, Ms. Nin reassured him, "I know, But you have ample time. Just consider the idea of marriage, okay? Whether it happens today or tomorrow, it's a step you'll eventually take."Stranger, deep in thought, retreated to his room. Unanswered, Ms. Nin called after him. Meanwhile, Achara entered the house, sensing tension, and questioned her mother, "What happened?"Ms. Nin, with a meaningful gaze, responded, "Ask your loving brother," and withdrew to her room.As evening descended, Nil found solace lying in his mother's lap. Her tender hands gently caressed his head, and in the warmth of the moment, Nil questioned, "Mom, did you love anyone before Dad?"Mother Lata, a bit surprised, responded, "What kind of question is that?"Curious, Nil insisted, "Tell me, please."Mother Lata shared, "In our time, we weren't allowed to look outside or love before marriage. I hadn't even seen your father's face."Nil, absorbing this revelation, pondered, "Really?"With a motherly tone, Lata inquired, "But, son, what's bothering you? You don't seem happy."Nil, trying to reassure, expressed, "No, Mom, I am very happy. I've regained my family. How could I not be happy?"Mother Lata, concerned, said, "I don't know what's troubling you, but if it feels right, you can share your thoughts with me."Nil, expressing gratitude, kissed his mother's hand and said, "I will."Achara silently approached her mother's room, overhearing the soft murmur of Ms. Nin uttering Nil's name. Intrigued, she decided to eavesdrop on the conversation unfolding within. As she listened, the room seemed to warp into a flashback, transporting her to a pivotal moment when Nil had departed Thailand.In that reminiscent scene, Nil lay on his bed, a sudden appearance by Ms. Nin prompting a mix of joy and awkwardness on his face. "Aunty, how're you?" he greeted."I'm fine! Are you alright now?" inquired Ms. Nin.Nil nodded, leaving a pregnant pause."So when do you both decide to get married?" Ms. Nin broached the subject.The mention of marriage caught Nil off guard. "Marriage! It's kind of a heavy word," he responded.Ms. Nin delved deeper, asking about Nil's love for her son. With confidence, Nil expressed, "Few things can't be measured, and my love for him can't be counted."Ms. Nin continued her probing. "What can you do for him?"With a quizzical look, Nil sought clarification. "Meaning?"Ms. Nin pressed on, "Can you sacrifice anything for Kao's happiness?""If needed, definitely I will," Nil affirmed, declaring, "Stranger is my first priority."Ms. Nin, with a piercing gaze, posed a challenging question. "So can you leave him?"Perplexed, Nil sought confirmation. "What?"Ms. Nin, unyielding, questioned their readiness for marriage. To illustrate, she presented an old video of Stranger responding to an interviewer's inquiry about marriage and children.In the video, the interviewer queried, "So Kao Neptune! Do you want to marry?"Stranger responded confidently, "Why not marry?"The interviewer probed further, "What about children?"Stranger's eyes gleamed with anticipation as he replied, "I want children. And a boy must. I would teach him many musical instruments and many more things himself."As Nil watched the video, a subtle ache settled within him. Ms. Nin, perceptive as ever, interjected, "Maybe you both love each other, but for how long? After a year, your love will become a burden on Kao."Refusing to entertain her dire predictions, Nil countered firmly, "No, no, he will not. He loves me. Our relationship will never become a burden on him."Ms. Nin's persistence remained unwavering, her gaze fixed firmly on Nil as she probed, her words slicing through the tension that hung heavy in the air. "Very well, I concede that he may choose to be with you out of love. But what of you? What role do you play in all of this?"There was a sharp edge to Ms. Nin's tone now, a rawness that underscored her emotions. "Allow me to illuminate something for you: you are extinguishing his very essence. By your side, he will never embrace fatherhood, never ascend to the fullness of his masculinity.""And who, pray tell, is responsible for this incompleteness?" Ms. Nin's retort was impassioned, a flare of righteous indignation in her eyes.In a surge of frustration, Nil's voice rose, pushing against the confines of the room. "No, you're wrong. He is not incomplete. We are complementary. He was whole before, and he will remain so for eternity!"Ms. Nin, unmoved, delivered a harsh verdict. "I have nothing to say to you! Go and ruin his life. You're going to kill his potential dream to be a father. You're killing a dream of a woman to be a grandmother.""Niloy, you're a murderer!" she accused, leaving Nil momentarily speechless.Ms. Nin humbled herself, extending a pleading hand and folding her knee before Nil. "Maybe I'm the meanest mother in the world, asking for my son's love to be sacrificed. But by granting my wish, you will be great. I'm begging you, Nil. Please leave my son; let him be a complete man."Conflicted, Nil grappled with the weight of her request. "I love him, but how could I, in my selfishness, snatch Stranger's dream to be a father of his own child, of his own blood? Am I being selfish?" He questioned himself, his trembling hand and teary eyes betraying the inner turmoil.A mere 15 minutes ago, Nil had felt happiness, but now he found himself standing at a crossroads, torn between Stranger's love and his dream. Contemplating everything, Nil made a difficult choice, opting to prioritize Stranger's dream. He promised Ms. Nin that he would leave as soon as possible.Ms. Nin, overcome with relief, expressed her joy by embracing Nil before leaving the room, leaving him feeling adrift in an ocean without a single survivor. Aware that if he stayed, Stranger would never willingly part from him, Nil resolved to sacrifice his career and dreams. His decision aimed to ensure that Stranger could live out his dream.'Achara, gripped by shock and panic, hurried back to her room after overhearing the tumultuous conversation. Wrestling with the weight of the revelation, she debated whether to disclose the truth to Stranger. Aware of Stranger's strained relationship with Ms. Nin, she feared that revealing the role of Stranger's mother in the separation might lead to his disdain. Uncertain, she chose to confide in Than, seeking guidance.In a mixture of shock and anger, Than listened to Achara's account and advised, "You should tell this to your brother."Achara hesitated, expressing her concern about irreparable damage to their family dynamics. Than offered a perspective, "There are few things in our life that you can't control, and this matter is among them. By not telling Kao sir, you might save your mom, but you are running for four lives."Silence lingered briefly before Than continued, "Just think, your brother would never fall in love again, Nil had to leave his career and love. Seeing your brother sad, you can't be happy. And seeing you sad, I cannot be happy either."Reflecting on his words, Achara conceded, "I think you are right, Than.""Hmm," Than acknowledged the gravity of the situation.Achara made a decision. "Tomorrow morning, I will tell him everything."Concerned for her well-being, Than offered his support. "Do you need me by your side?""No, I have to tell him everything on my own," Achara asserted.Silence hung in the air until Than broke it with a sincere declaration, "However the situation is? I will always be by your side, Achara."