Chapter Text
Perth's been working for as long as he can remember, so he's had his fair share of managers handling his portfolio since he first started. He'd like to think that he's maintained a pleasant and professional relationship with most of them, even if 1 or 2 has left quite the awful taste in his mouth.
But now, he thinks he's found a favorite - Santa. Ta. Hopefully in the future - teerak or ter, but hey, he's digressing.
Aside from Mae Add, that is. When she had announced a year ago that she was finally ready to take a break for her own health and well-being after being Perth's manager for years, there's not much that he can do but to offer her his full blessings. Goodbyes are rarely ever easy, especially when he's come to see her as a second mother figure. Still, Mae Add had reassured him that she already had a replacement in mind and that Perth would have nothing to worry about. While he's generally easy to manage, Perth would admit that he can be (very) stubborn when it comes to certain things. It wasn't wrong for him to be skeptical, of course, but Perth figures it's better than having to find someone on his own.
Now, fast forward to a year later, Perth thinks that he's going have to buy his ex-manager a very significant thank-you gift for introducing Santa into his life. It's insane just how much has changed in a year, so much so that it still leaves Perth reeling from time to time. Santa is everything packaged into one; manager, friend, confidant, stylist and more importantly, Perth's number one supporter. He keeps Perth booked and busy with all sort of events and collaborations, yet still ensures that Perth has enough rest days in between so that he doesn't burn out.
When they had first been introduced a year ago, Perth had been slightly worried, wondering if Santa could take the stress of being a manager at just the age of 21. He had been a well-known dance trainee in Korea, but after the show ended, Santa had decided that he needed a change of pace from it and had gotten the job through an acquaintance who knew Mae Add as well.
''Alright, so the last rehearsal is scheduled for 5pm.'' Santa flicks a glance towards the watch on his wrist, the leather already frayed around the edges from how often he's worn it. ''It's 3 now, so you've got about two hours of downtime.'' He then switches his focus to the iPad in hand. '' Then it's makeup and outfit before you're slotted to perform at 9.'' Again, he's not focusing where he's pacing, intent on getting Perth's schedule right to minimize the chances of any hiccups. ''After that, it's the post-concert interview. I already reminded them that they have to strictly keep it to 15 minutes because you have an early schedule tomorrow.''
''Ta.'' Perth catches hold of Santa by the hem of his shirt, stopping the male in his tracks. ''Will you please sit down and rest? You've been on your feet since morning. It's going to be fine.'' While Perth understands that it's Santa's job to ensure that everything runs smoothly for him, he can't help but to worry that the younger male has a tendency to overwork himself.
''I have big shoes to fill, Phi Perth. I really want to be someone worthy of working with you.''
That was what Santa had told him half a year ago when Perth had accidentally walked in on an overwhelmed Santa hiding out in the closet of the building that Perth was filming the music video for his single.
''It's your first time headlining an event, phi. I just want to make sure it's perfect. It has to be perfect.''
''And it's going to be just that.'' Perth repeats firmly, grasping both of Santa's hands in his. ''I know I'm in good hands with you around.''
They've forged a deep connection based on trust and respect for each other. It's Perth's first time having a manager that's younger than he is, and he loves it. Loves being able to fuss and care over Santa, or teasing him endlessly until he's on the receiving end of the male's exasperated eyerolls. It hadn't taken Perth long to warm up to the other, with most of his close friends agreeing that Santa was one of the best things to happen to Perth in a long while.
Santa doesn't look like he believes it, but some of the tension bleeds from his shoulders.
''I know you're going to be amazing.'' It's cute how Santa would literally fight anyone who dares to say otherwise about Perth.
It's just the motivation that Perth needs, touched by the male's never-ending support towards him. ''You're going to watch me later, right?''
''Wouldn't miss it for the world, phi.''
Perth manages to sneak in some winks before he's due on stage for rehearsal. Before Santa heads down the makeshift stairs to where the sound engineers are downstairs, Perth stops him briefly, ''Remember to stay in the shade or you'll get a headache.''
''Khrap, Phi Perth.'' Santa teases in a sing-song manner.
Rehearsals are mostly a breeze for Perth. It's usually to remind him of where he's supposes to stand and the marks he's supposed to head towards through his setlist. Easy. Routine. He makes it through the first song fine enough, but finds himself distracted when he catches sight of one of the sound engineers striking up a conversation with Santa. The very same one that had asked one of Perth's makeup staff to pass a box of khanom buang to Santa earlier on because he heard that those were the male's favorites.
It's nothing to be jealous over.
Perth continues to be distracted through his second song, partially thankful for the shades that he has on so that none of them could actually pinpoint just who he's looking at. He misses the next mark that he's supposed to head towards, calmly apologizing into the mic as he takes note of the error. Santa approaches the front of the stage with a bottle of water and Perth ducks down, lifting his shades up to rest on his head.
Santa peers up at him, concerned, ''Are you alright, phi? Is it too hot?'' The younger male holds up the bottle of water up to Perth, gesturing for him to take a sip.
''Just got a little distracted.'' The thing is - Perth's rarely distracted.
He manages to get through the rest of the rehearsal with no mistakes. Instead of heading backstage as soon as he's done, Perth takes the makeshift stairs to the ground instead, Santa giving him an adorably confused look.
''What's wrong?''
''Let's go back to the dressing room. It's hot out here.'' Perth places a hand against the small of Santa's back, the material slightly damp from his sweat.
Santa nods his head, but gives Perth another concerned side-eye. ''Are you sure you're alright, phi?''
''I am. I just don't want you to get a headache from being out in the heat.''
''Why does it feel like you're my manager instead?''
''Someone has to take care of you.'' Perth fishes for a bottle of water from the cooler box and twists the cap open for Santa. ''Drink. At least half.''
Santa huffs, but obliges anyway, drinking at least a few mouthfuls of it. ''Happy now, phi?''
''Very. Such a good boy for phi, nong.''
- / -
Pre-event jitters are inevitable, even for a veteran like Perth. He's triple checked everything, knowing that all he has to do is give his best. It's a flurry of movement backstage; the different managers handling their respective artistes, event staffs rapidly speaking into their walkie talkies and the sorts. Perth remains hidden behind the curtain, going through his usual pre-show routine of simple breathing exercises.
''Hey.'' Santa appears next to him, immediately reaching for Perth's clammy hand to give it a supportive squeeze. ''I took a lil' peek outside. Everyone's psyched as hell for you to come out and perform. I'm so excited for you, phi.'' The excitement is radiating off Santa so much that he's bouncing on the heels of his feet. ''After this, you're going to get even more calls than before and-''
On a whim, or maybe it's just the nerves, Perth wraps his arms around his manager and draws him in for a hug. It helps. It always does. The close proximity bringing about a sense of stillness and comfort. Santa stills in his hold and then relaxes, both hands coming up to pat Perth on the shoulders.
''I'm really proud of you, phi.'' His voice is thick with emotion.
''You made it happen.'' Perth reminds him gently. ''I know how hard you worked to get this opportunity for me.'' He really must have done something right in his previous life to have had Mae Add then, and Santa now, in his life. Struck by a sudden surge of fondness, he gently cups and strokes the back of Santa's head. ''Thank you, Ta.''
Perth gives Santa another squeeze before he steps back, realizing that he no longer feels as jittery as before. Santa reaches for his hand once more, lightly stroking the pad of his thumb over Perth's knuckles. ''I'm going to be here. Watching. Like always.'' Santa smiles - the one that reaches the corner of his eyes and into the deepest depths of Perth's heart. It's the smile that's reserved for the people closest to him, unlike the usual cordial and professional smile that he plasters on when he's dealing with industry staff.
Perth is content.
He's doing what he loves, but what's even better is that he has someone by his side who would fight tooth and nail for him. Someone who gets upset on his behalf when he reads some of the useless online comments left by immature haters. Santa who pushes Perth's creative direction to whole new levels each time they sit down and bounce ideas back and forth in the dead of night, cocooned by the dim lights and cool AC of Perth's home studio. God, he's so fucking fond of Santa.
Perth sneaks a glance towards the other and then down to their joined hands, Santa's fingers warm and soft in his. He wants to think he doesn't know why, that they're so close and comfortable with each other that displays of affection and being touchy-feely has become the norm. But he leans over and lightly touches his lips to the corner of Santa's lips. Fleeting.
''For good luck.''
Santa's used to it. Perth being extra affectionate to the people that he has truly opened up his heart to. It's common to see Perth being clingy to some of the labelmates that he's close to. But with Santa, it's a different kind of affection. The sudden boom of the MC's voice speaking into the microphone startles both of them.
''Now, for the moment that you've all been waiting for - the rockstar himself who's been making the charts in both music and acting, our headline for today's concert - GIVE IT UP FOR PERTH TANAPON!''
Those first few steps that Perth takes on stage always feels electric. It's a lot; the glaring white overhead lights, the uproar of screams that are for him and the crowd chanting his name. He tries to take all of in and it hits Perth right there and then that this is the biggest crowd he's ever encountered, adrenaline coursing through him as the screams and cheers increase in pitch.
After twenty minutes on stage, Perth ends off with a rousing encore performance of 'Secret' - much to the crowd's delight. He's completely soaked with perspiration under the black leather jacket that he has on, tip of his fingers stinging from the guitar, but it's well fucking worth it. The yelling intensifies when he takes a bow, Perth's ears still ringing when he finally takes his leave and disappears backstage. God, it feels like the excitement's still buzzing under his skin. He carefully hands his guitar over to one of the staff and as soon as his hands are empty, Perth finds himself with a handful of Santa who had more or less lunged towards him.
''Phi, that was so AWESOME! Everyone was screaming and it was so, so loud-'' Perth laughs in disbelief, arms coming to wrap themselves around Santa's waist. ''Did you hear how loud they were?'' Maybe it's the adrenaline or something else, but Perth finds himself lifting Santa up as they hug, grinning widely up at his manager.
It's then that he realizes how red-rimmed and watery Santa's eyes are.
''Have you been crying?''
''He's been crying since you stepped on stage. Pond and I had to run and get him a whole box of tissues before he started flooding the backstage area.''
Pond and Joong, two of Perth's closest friends from the label, both come up to congratulate Perth, looking very amused at the sight they're faced with. Reluctantly, he sets Santa on his feet once more, but keeps his arm secure around the other's waist as if afraid that Santa might just slip away and disappear.
''You're exaggerating, P'Joong.''
''Me? Exaggerate?'' Joong scoffs. ''Please, you were crying and blubbering about how happy and proud you are of Perth. And then you went on a tangent about how cool and handsome he looks-''
''I, no-!'' Flustered, Santa tries to cover Joong's mouth with his palm, but finds his hand gently batted away.
Perth can't help the grin that threatens to overtake his lips, turning to look at his manager. Even under the dim lighting, he can see just how pink Santa's face is.
''Joong, Pond - you're both up with LYKN next. Positions please.''
''Coming, phi.'' Pond raises his hand at the both of them. ''See you two around.''
Perth wishes them luck, then shifts his attention back to Santa. ''Ta, what I am doing to do with you, hm?'' He peers at the younger male, delicately thumbing away the tear tracks. ''You like phi that much?''
''Ugh.'' Santa half-heartedly punches him on the shoulder. ''Come on, or we'll be late for your interview with the media reporters.''
- / -
Perth is no stranger when it comes to handling queries from the reporters. He's been at the job long enough to be an expert at fielding even the most intrusive of questions. Tonight, there's more reporters than the usual faces he's used to seeing. Perth's still reeling from the excitement of being on stage and is in an even better mood than usual, enthusiastically taking in questions about a possible full album and future acting gigs.
''Perth, one more question, please!'' Someone pipes up from the back.
Perth nods his head politely, giving her the go-ahead.
''It's not exactly career-related, but I'd like to think that it's something the fans are curious about. Most of the fans know just how close you are with your manager. Just like how your fans love you, they love Santa just as much for taking such good care for you. Especially since he's so bubbly and energetic as well. I think what the fans would like to know if Santa is seeing anyone special at the moment? Especially since he's so cute and lovable.''
Perth's used to such a question being directed at him. Whether he's dating, or is there anyone that's caught his eye, the sorts. The question momentarily catches him off guard; not because it's not meant for him, but because it hasn't ever crossed his mind that Santa could possibly be romantically involved with someone in the future. Perth masks his surprise with an easygoing laugh. He glances towards the sidelines where Santa's monitoring the situation.
''Well, if you think I'm busy, Santa's even busier since he handles everything for me.'' Perth starts off slowly. ''I'm not sure if he even has time to date after the day ends. But, of course, if there's someone who shows an interest in my manager, then of course that person would have to go through me first. I'm very possessive when it comes to the people I consider special.''
For the reporters up front, it's a cute answer. For Perth, maybe, just maybe, he might have intended it as a thinly-veiled warning. With a smile, he thanks everyone for their time and poses for a couple of photos before stepping off the platform.
''What kind of question was that?'' Santa grumbles as they make their way back towards Perth's private dressing room.
''It's only right that they're interested in you as well. You're cute.'' Perth demonstrates it by pinching Santa on the cheeks.
''Now you're just making fun of me, phi.''
''I hope you know that there was nothing playful about my answer.'' Perth says as he sheds off his leather jacket the moment they enter the dressing room. ''Because you're going to be stuck with me for a very, very long time.''
''Was never planning on going anywhere.'' Santa's not quite looking Perth in the eyes, but he catches a hint of a fond smile on the younger male's lips.
- / -
Perth's not planning on staying long at the after party. He's only grudgingly here because Santa had convinced him that it was necessary that his show his face for an hour or two, rub elbows with some of the senior executives and mingle around. It's been forty minutes since some of the senior executives of his label have hijacked him and it's excruciating. Finally, they leave him be, but Santa's nowhere to be found. When his phone call to Santa remains unanswered, Perth walks up to where Est and William are deep in conversation near one of the refreshment tables.
''Hey, have you guys seen Santa?''
''Hello to you too, Phi Perth.'' William grins at him. ''We're both doing great, thanks for asking.''
Est purses his lips to muffle his laugh and shakes his head at William. ''I saw him talking to both Joong and Pond earlier, but both of them left after a couple of drinks. Both Phuwin and Dunk came to pick them up.''
Huh, not exactly surprising.
Santa wouldn't leave without informing Perth first, so he assumes that the male's still around somewhere. Like Perth, Santa does have his introverted moments, which means he's probably someplace where it isn't too loud or crowded. He finds Santa up on the building's rooftop area, the younger male leaning forwards with his folded arms resting against the brick parapet wall, gazing out at the vast night skyline ahead of him. Both of them say nothing when Perth comes to join him, simply basking in the chill of the night air and the sight of twinkling building lights ahead.
''Do you miss it?'' Perth asks, first to break the silence. ''Being on stage?''
Santa mulls over the question, ''It's hard to say. I love being on stage, but after being on that programme, it really...'' Santa doesn't have to elaborate for Perth to understand that it had been a rough time for him. ''I think I was burnt out, which was I decided to come back. I was really lost too because I didn't know what to do after coming back. If you had asked me a year ago, I think the answer to your question would be 'yes'. But now...'' Santa turns to look at Perth, his features softening with his smile. ''...I'd like to think I've found my purpose. It's just as rewarding - being by the side of someone who works so incredibly hard and tirelessly to achieve his own dreams.''
Perth's throat feels awfully tight with emotions.
How does Perth convey it into words that he'd been on the brink of burnt out before Santa? Mae Add had nagged Perth time and time again that he needed some time away to clear his head, to not drown himself in the work until he was at risk of numbing himself. Then came Santa into his life, turning it completely topsy turvy with his bright smile and antics, putting his foot down just as stubbornly whenever Perth tries to negotiate with him about adding on an extra job or two onto his already packed schedule. Santa who tires himself out for Perth, defending him fiercely whenever some of the organizers try to take advantage of Perth's kindness. The path as an artist has always been a lonely one, with only a selected few you could trust as friends.
Perth doesn't really have to worry about being lonely now.
Not when Santa's walking down this path with him.
''Thank you for helping me find my spark again, Phi Perth.''
- / -
If it was up to Perth, he'd love to have the best of both worlds - acting and singing. With music being his first love, Perth had made the difficult decision of putting acting on the backseat then. It's been close to two years and with his solo activities coming to a momentary stop, Perth decides that he's alright with starting off slow with a very minor role for now.
It's nothing too complex - he's playing a small role of a playboy who takes a brief interest in one of the side characters. Nothing that he can't pull. He's not exactly in the headspace to take any heavy roles for now, intent on taking a well-deserved break for a month or two before embarking on new projects. For the role, Perth's told that there's going to be an intimate kissing scene to portray the characters mutual interest. The director had specifically requested for Perth since one of the actor was a newbie and everyone in the industry knew that Perth was great at making his on-screen partners comfortable.
''P'Jee.'' Perth politely stops one of the makeup staff. ''Have you seen Santa?''
''I think he's outside with one of the actors. I'll call him in for you, nong.''
Santa slips onto the set a few minutes later, ''P'Jee said you're looking for me?'' He settles into the spare chair next to Perth, noticing the script in his hands. ''Can I take a look? Honestly, this is all so new to me. I think it's the first time I'm seeing you act ever since I took over as your manager.''
''Trust me, you're not missing anything special.'' Still, Perth hands Santa the script.
''Now you're just being humble for no reason. Everyone I've met on set today has been singing your praises.'' Santa thumbs through the script curiously. ''Are your scenes the one where you've marked it with these yellow strips?''
''Yep.''
Santa hums, the tip of his finger moving along the lines and it's endearing how curious he is when it's something new. He stops, brows furrowing ever-so-slightly.
''Oh...there's a kiss scene with P'Ter.''
''We're filming that today since P'New's filming the scenes out of order.'' Perth cocks his head to the side, studying Santa's facial expression. ''I think it shouldn't take too long, so we can go and grab a bite as soon as I'm done.''
''Nong.'' One of the crew comes over and taps him on the shoulder. ''Five more minutes before we start filming your scene with Nong Ter.''
''Sure, I'll be right there, phi.''
Perth reaches over and squeezes Santa on the knee, ''Wait for me, okay?''
He always works better when Santa's around.
For Perth, it's easy for him to emulate and slip into the character that he's playing. It's one of the reason why he's so highly-sought after, especially when it involves roles that requires him to convey a certain range of emotions. He steps onto the set and politely greets everyone, making sure to thank them for their time and effort, even if his part is a small one. It's clear that Ter, the newbie, is a bundle of nerves compared to Perth's laidback manner. It's justified, considering that it's his very first acting gig. Perth hopes that he can at least ease the other's nerves and the scene can move on smoothly with minimal takes. The faster he films this scene, the more time he gets to spend with Santa.
Priorities.
The cameras start rolling and Perth snaps into focus. Ter fumbles his line the first two takes, profusely apologizing. Third time around, he executes his lines perfectly and it's Perth's turn to deliver his. The scene requires him to back Ter's character up a couple of steps, which he does so with no problems whatsoever. He's supposed to be focused, but Perth can't help but to notice Santa in his direct line of sight, standing behind one of the crew members. Maybe it's him putting too much thought into it, but Santa seems...subdued.
Perth snaps back into focus, reminding himself that he's supposed to cup Ter's cheek as indicated in the script before inching his face closer. It's tame, compared to some of the scenes he's filmed in past works, but the moment Perth cups the male's cheek, it feels all...wrong. He finds his gaze straying towards Santa once more, unable to gauge the expression on the younger male's face. Perth goes in for the kiss and the last thing he sees is Santa slipping out of the door, disappearing in a quick instant.
The moment the director calls ''Cut!'', he politely thanks everyone again for their co-operation and excuses himself once P'New confirms that there'll be no need for another take (for now). He finds Santa seating outside on the top step of the staircase landing, looking lost in thought.
''Hey.'' Perth joins him, keeping his tone light and careful. ''Are you alright?''
Santa takes a look at him, his frown deepening, ''Your lipstick's all smeared.'' He digs into his crossbody bag where he usually keeps a portable fan, tissues and some makeup items handy for Perth's use. Santa pulls out a piece of tissue and starts dabbing Perth's lips with it. ''Must have been one hell of a kiss.'' The male mutters under his breath.
It clicks instantly for Perth.
''Ta.'' Perth winces at how hard Santa's rubbing at his lips. ''At this rate, you're going to end up scraping the skin of my lips off.''
''Good.'' Santa bites back.
Perth huffs out a laugh, immediately curling an arm around the younger male's shoulders. ''You're cute when you're upset.''
''I'm not upset!'' The very fact that his voice is coming out higher-pitched than usual is an indication that he is.
''Ta.'' Perth sighs, tucking Santa closer against his body.
''...maybe I'm upset at myself.'' The other finally admits. ''It's stupid. You don't have to tell me that. It's your job. I'm your manager - I'm supposed to be a professional and not feel like, I don't know, a jilted boyfriend or something.'' He mutters, clearly annoyed at his own self for feeling that way. ''It's just - I've never...it's my first time. Seeing you, you know...''
''Kiss someone for work.'' Perth helps to finish, keeping the amusement out of his tone lest he incurs Santa's side-eye.
''Which is perfectly normal.'' Santa says as if he's trying to convince himself.
''Hey, it happens. We're both around each other a lot, we're...well, I'd say that we're so close that the lines of it being a mere friendship is beginning to blur. It's no longer just a working relationship, don't you think?'' Perth figures that he might as well nip it in the bud.
Santa stills, then straightens up as he widens his eyes at Perth. ''Phi, are you...am I...I'm not hearing things, am I?''
''Ta, you're the only aside from my mom who has the keys to my house.''
''....because I'm your manager and I need easy access to your house in case I can't reach you.'' Santa reasons, as if not trusting himself to believe that Perth was hinting at something.
''You have your own room in my house.''
''...because we work a lot of late nights and it's easier for me to sleep over?''
Perth huffs out a small laugh, ''Okay, but do you really think I'm so affectionate with everyone? Sure, I'm close with Pond and Joong, but you don't see me buying them just-because flowers. Or kissing and nuzzling their cheeks.''
Santa opens his mouth, closes it, then makes a sound that resembles a stressed squeak.
''Are you saying that you like me, phi?''
This isn't a conversation meant to take place on a staircase landing.
''Are you saying you don't like me?''
Santa slaps him on the thigh, ''Don't answer my question with a question.''
Perth grabs the male's wrist before he can deliver another smack to his thigh.
''Okay, then can I reply to your answer with a kiss, or is that a no too?''
- / -