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The moon held more significance than mere observation; it could embody a desired individual's reflection. Neglecting thoughts of it could render it nonexistent.
Khoi's hand clasping Jerah's on the balcony was a testament to their truth. Khoi’s lips curved into an expression reminiscent of a smile. His lips turned upwards in a smile, reflecting the joy of finally finding someone special. Khoi's heart was consumed by Jerah, a love that defied all reason and words. Though he longed to profess his undying devotion, he remained hesitant, unsure if his feelings were reciprocated.
The thought was frightening, especially when he couldn't help but stare at his lips and yearn for something more.
Jerah's voice fell to a hushed whisper and he withdrew into himself, a sudden shyness overtaking him. He regarded Khoi with the same intensity with which he had once gazed upon the moon, catching sight of his reflection in its ethereal glow.
"You spoke of the moon as if it were your dearest love," A wistful smile played at his lips as he averted his gaze from him, his fingers fidgeting nervously as if he could scarcely believe the words that had just left his lips. "Might I inquire as to why?”
“The moon... its silver light doth stir within me memories of what could have been," Khoi whispered, his voice laced with sorrow. He struggled to keep the lump in his throat at bay and forced a weak smile. "My daughter, she is a wondrous creature, much like you, only without fortitude. She is clever, charming, and kind. I regret that you did not have the opportunity to meet her.”
Jerah's countenance fell as he recalled the haunting words of Khoi regarding his daughter, Melly. Once a pure and innocent child, now condemned to an eternal cycle of death. Khoi had never wished for such a fate to befall his beloved offspring, but destiny had proven itself to be a merciless mistress. The mere thought that he would never have the chance to embrace his precious progeny one final time before her demise was a sorrowful burden that weighed heavy on Khoi's heart. The bitter irony of it all was not lost on him, nor was the fact that he cherished Kerah all the more for fear of losing him.
The very notion sent shivers down his spine.
Their eyes meet once more, and Jerah feels a surge of emotion that threatens to consume him. He longs to express the depth of his love for Khoi, to reveal the fire that burns within him at the mere thought of their union. Yet, a sense of trepidation holds him back. What if it is too soon to speak such words? What if Khoi does not share his affections, or worse yet, feels nothing for him at all?
“Fair bachelor, your beauty is unparalleled. Surely, many a suitor has vied for your affections, envious of your myriad of talents. But do not let their covetousness obscure your vision of the world. Hope springs eternal,” Jerah spoke, his voice trembling with earnestness, as if his very soul depended on Khoi's belief in his words. "As for me, my admiration for you blossoms with each passing day.”
Khoi was overcome with a sudden surge of pride as he heard these words. A fluttering sensation of joy flooded through him, causing his cheeks to flush with color and his heart to soar. Such emotions were rare in his dreary existence and he savored them, he loved them.
"Your admiration, however... does not seem to stem from pity." Khoi said gently, his voice barely above a whisper. He raised a questioning brow, his ivory eyes piercing through the gloom.
His gaze shifted to a point past Jerah’s shoulder, to the shadows that lurked in the corners of the room. "Is this why I see you as my moon?" he asked then, his voice low and husky, like the rustling of leaves on a moonlit night.
“It's not the moon that concerns me, Khoi.”
Jerah grasps him firmly and presses his lips to his, savoring the taste of warm honey and cherry wine upon Khoi’s tongue. The melding of flavors sends a shiver down his spine, an otherworldly sensation that feels akin to pure magic. In moments like these, their bodies entangled in a passionate embrace, a warmth spreads throughout every inch of his being. It is a sensation so powerful that Khoi fears it may consume him entirely. His body trembles under the weight of the overwhelming desire, a yearning to hold onto this feeling forevermore.
As their lips finally parted, Khoi gazed into Jerah’s eyes with a deep admiration. "You are an absolute wonder." he whispered, his voice husky with emotion. He couldn't resist the urge to touch Jerah, his fingers gently tracing the curve of his cheek. "And a delight to behold.”
Jerah let out a low, dark chuckle, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Flattery will get you nowhere, my dear. You must take me at my word," he said, his voice dripping with honeyed words. "But fear not, for I adore you more than words could ever express."
Khoi's sly grin faded, replaced by a hint of sadness that crept over his features. "I never thought so." he admitted, his gaze lowered. "The thought of us parting away scares me."
Jerah reached out, cupping his hands around the back of Khoi's head and pulling their foreheads together. "You need not fear, my love." he whispered, his breath hot against Khoi's skin. "We will always find our way back to each other. Even if you cannot reach me, I will watch over you. Wherever I am, remember that."
Khoi's voice trembled as he spoke, a deep yearning in his words. "You are everything to me," he said, his emotions raw and exposed. "Without you, I am incomplete. I feel incomplete without you."
The two of them stood there, locked in a tight embrace, lost in their own private world. Jerah felt a sense of duty wash over him, a desire to protect and care for Khoi no matter what. It is not a burden to take care of you, he thought to himself. It is an honor.