The train ride was longer than expected, but Gemini Norawit didn't mind. With his headphones on and a soft breeze slipping through the window, he watched the endless stretch of green fields turn into coastal roads. The scent of the sea grew stronger as he neared his destination—a small coastal town where his grandmother lived.
It had been years since he last visited. His parents were too busy to come this time, so they sent him alone, saying he needed a "break from the city." Gemini wasn't sure what they meant. He didn't feel tired, just… restless. Maybe a summer away from Bangkok's chaos wouldn't be so bad.
When the train stopped, he slung his bag over his shoulder and stepped onto the platform. The town was just as he remembered—quaint wooden houses, colorful street stalls, and the ever-present sound of waves in the distance. His grandmother, a warm and lively woman, greeted him with a tight hug.
"Gem! Look at you, growing more handsome every time I see you," she teased, pinching his cheek.
"Ow, Grandma!" He laughed, dodging her playful grip. "You say that every time."
"And I'll keep saying it. Now, let's get you home. You must be hungry."
As they walked through the narrow streets, Gemini noticed how time had barely touched this place. The same coconut trees swayed along the coastline, the same old man sat outside his shop fixing fishing nets, and the same little café stood at the corner near the beach.
But there was something new.
Or rather, someone new.
Standing outside the beachfront café, adjusting a wooden signboard, was a boy he didn't recognize. Dark-haired and slightly shorter than Gemini, he wore a plain white t-shirt and an apron tied around his waist. His face was focused, lips slightly pursed, as he carefully placed the board in the right position.
Gemini found himself staring.
"Who's that?" he asked, nodding toward the café.
His grandmother glanced over. "Oh, that's Fourth Nattawat. His family runs the café now. He's a quiet boy, but a good one. You might like him."
Gemini raised an eyebrow. "Why do you say that?"
She chuckled. "Because you're too loud, and he's too quiet. Balance, my dear."
Gemini rolled his eyes, but as they walked past the café, he couldn't help but steal one last glance at the boy named Fourth.
Little did he know, Fourth had already noticed him too.
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