Archive of Our Own

1

Day 1

The first thing Junior noticed about Mark was his laugh.

Junior was outside his condo, currently in a fight with the one who held his heart – a 2-kilogram white Pomeranian, and while he always loved to go on walks with him, spoiling him like he was his own kid, right now, he just didn’t have time to handle one of his temper tantrums. He was late for work, exactly because his beloved ball of fur was so excited about his morning walk that he had broken free from his leash, running around in circles as Junior tried to catch him. Ten minutes later, and still no closer to catching the little menace, Junior took out his secret weapon: his dog’s favorite treat.

“Come on, Pompom, come to Daddy,” he mumbled, the small bone-shaped treat dangling from his hand as he edged closer, careful not to set off his baby in another playful sprint. Once he was close enough to see the glint in his dog’s eyes, he lunged forward, ready to catch him. What he didn’t expect was for his feet to slip on the grass, the whole area muddy because of the earlier rain. He fell back, landing flat on his ass, the treat flying out of his hand at the shock.

That’s when he heard it: a loud, clear laugh, erupting like bubbles out of someone’s mouth. Junior looked up, embarrassed and gaped at the sight in front of him. A tall, lean man was standing not far from him, looking at him with a twinkle in his eye. Somewhat long, brown hair was framing a face with soft eyes, a sharp nose and plump lips. For a moment, Junior forgot how to breathe.

The man bent down, stroking the fur of the dog which was now sitting obediently at his feet, like he was not being a menace just a few seconds ago. Junior didn’t know if he should laugh or cry at the sight.

The man picked up Pompom just as Junior awkwardly stood up, dusting his now ruined pants. He watched as the man stroked the dog’s fur gently, a small smile on his lips.

“What a cute baby you are,” he cooed. “And such a good boy! Yes, you are~”

“Only with pretty people apparently,” Junior mumbled, more to himself than to be heard.

“I’m sorry?”

The man was looking at him with curious eyes, still holding Pompom close to his chest.

“I mean, he can be both the best and worst dog,” Junior, changing the subject, chuckled awkwardly, reaching out to take the dog back.

The man handed the dog without hesitation, and Junior startled at the warmth of his skin as their fingers brushed for a second. He paused, a frown appearing on his face at the mud stain on the man’s shirt, where Pompom’s paws had rested.

“I’m so sorry about that! Let me help you,” he exclaimed, taking a tissue out of his pocket to rub at the material, trying to remove the stain before it dried, to no avail.

“It’s fine. It’s an old shirt anyway,” the man replied kindly.

Junior could tell the shirt was not only probably pretty new, contrary to what the stranger had said, but it also seemed quite expensive, its fabric flowing and silky-smooth. He felt a pang of guilt at having ruined it but was grateful for the stranger’s gracious words.

“Are you okay, though?” the man asked him, sounding concerned. “You did land pretty heavily on the ground.”

“Ah, that…”

Junior let out another awkward chuckle, his free hand scratching the back of his head.

“I’m fine. A few bruises and a hurt ego won’t kill me.”

His words elicited another short, sweet laugh from the man in front of him.

“Well, I’m glad to hear that. I was afraid I’d have to take you to the hospital,” he answered, only half joking.

And maybe Junior did need to go the hospital, if the way his heart rate had picked up suddenly was any indication. Tightening his hold on his dog, he took a look at his watch, before suddenly exclaiming, “Oh gosh, I’m so gonna be late!”

He turned towards the kind stranger, shooting him an apologetic look.

“I’m so sorry, I really need to go. I’ll contact you about the shirt.”

Confused at the puzzled look on the man’s face, Junior sprinted off towards his condo after a last wave, Pompom held securely against him. After he had cleaned the dog’s paws, made sure he had enough water and food for the day, and changed into clean clothes, a thought suddenly startled him. What an idiot! I forgot to give him my number. There was no point in berating himself now. He just hoped he had brightened the stranger’s day, if only just a little, because the man had been like a ray of sunshine for him.

Junior was not the type of person to believe in love at first sight, but as he was driving to work, the face of the handsome stranger still lingering in his thoughts, he thought he might just become a believer.

2

Day 30

Junior was on the phone with his mother, on his way to pick up some flowers she had ordered for one of her friends. That morning, during their weekly call, she had told him she had an important business meeting in the afternoon and would probably not be back before the store closed. Junior, always happy to help, had offered to go instead.

So here he was now, standing in front of a flower shop, listening to his mother nagging about his love life. How she had gone from talking about her business meeting – which went quite well, thanks for asking, she had whined playfully – to this, Junior himself was not sure, but his mother was an expert at meddling in his love life. Or rather, she was an expert at badgering him about his lack of a love life. Even though he kept telling her he was focusing on his job, and he would find someone when he was ready, she just would not let go.

“Mae, you know I already have my baby,” Junior told her teasingly.

His mother inhaled loudly, in shock.

“W-what?” She squealed, her voice so high Junior thought it might break his eardrum. Then, after a pause, she added in a huff, “Don’t tell me you’re talking about Pompom?”

Junior laughed loudly.

“What was the name of the flower shop again?” he asked her, if only to distract her.

“Mark’s Flowers. I’ve already told you three times, Sweety. Is your mom going senile, or are you trying to change the subject?”

Junior sighed as his mother had seen right through him. He glanced at the storefront to make sure he was at the right place. The name was written in cursive font, a pale lilac color, and surrounded by a bunch of flowers Junior couldn’t name. It was pretty and elegant, and Junior knew his mother had chosen this store just for that reason. One of her friends had recommended it to her, giving her a business card with a refined design.

He entered the flower shop, answering his mother, “Of course not, Mae. I’m at the flower shop now. I’ll text you later.”

Before his mother could grill him further, he quickly bid her goodbye and hung up.

The store was quite spacious and well-lit, showcasing different flower arrangements and bouquets in a stylish manner. Junior made his way to the counter, checking his phone for the booking confirmation his mother had forwarded to him earlier.

“Welcome to Mark’s Flowers. How can I help you today?”

Junior stopped short at the sound of that voice. The voice he could still remember clearly, even though he hadn’t heard it in a month. He raised his head, his eyes landing on the handsome stranger he had thought about way too many times in the last few weeks.

“Oh! Pompom’s Dad,” the stranger exclaimed, a smile lighting up his whole face as he recognized Junior. “How are you today?”

Junior felt his cheeks heat up, happy but shy that the handsome stranger had remembered him. He probably only remembered you because of Pompom, the little voice in his head berated him.

“H-hi.” Junior internally cringed at the stutter in his voice. “Fine, how are you?”

“I’m great,” the stranger replied amicably. “So, what can I do for you?”

“Oh, I’m here for a pickup,” Junior told him, showing him his phone.

“One bouquet for… Anong Sriariyarungruang,” the stranger read carefully.

“It’s my mom,” Junior interjected, feeling the need to clear any potential misunderstanding.

“Oh.” The man smiled fondly. “Well, your mom has great taste. It’s one of our most popular bouquets.”

He turned around and headed to the back of the store, coming back a couple of minutes later with a big bouquet wrapped elegantly with a blue satin ribbon.

“Here you go,” he told Junior as he handed him the flowers. “It must be a gift for someone she really likes,” he added, taking the credit card Junior was holding out to him to process the payment.

“Oh really? I have to admit, I don’t know anything about the meaning behind specific flowers,” Junior replied with an awkward chuckle.

The stranger didn’t seem to mind. Instead, he explained with a smile, “Well, you can see it like a cheer-up bouquet.”

He pointed at the bouquet, specifically at a yellow flower shaped like small fluffy balls.

“You see this flower here, this is a mimosa. It represents softness and beauty. And this one,” he continued, pointing at a golden flower, its petals shaped like a trumpet, “is a daffodil. It symbolizes hope and new beginnings. Well, you also have yellow roses, for friendship and happiness.”

He smiled as he looked up at Junior, then a slight blush crept up his cheeks.

“Sorry, I get pretty excited when I talk about flowers.”

“It’s okay. It’s cute.”

The blush deepened.

“Sorry?”

“I mean, the bouquet is pretty cute,” Junior replied, trying to save face.

The man laughed.

“Ah. Thank you. I hope your mom will like it.”

“I’m sure she will. She’s in love with this store’s creations,” Junior admitted.

These words earned him another bright smile.

“Well, I’m glad to hear people like my work.”

“Oh? Is it your store?” Junior asked curiously, interested in getting to know more about the other man.

“It is. I just opened it a couple of weeks ago. It’s always difficult to start something new, but it’s going pretty well so far,” the man confided.

“Well, from what I see, you don’t have to worry about it. People seem to love it.”

“Yes, I’m so happy about it.”

He handed the receipt and one of his business cards to Junior.

“Here. If you ever need flowers, or if your mom does, you know where to come,” he said with a smile.

Junior took the card, reading the name written on it.

“I definitely will!” he answered with a smile of his own. “Thank you, Mark.”

“My pleasure. See you next time…”

He waited, as if he expected Junior to say something else.

“That’s when you tell me your name,” he added with a chuckle at Junior’s blank stare.

“Oh.”

What an idiot, Junior thought, an awkward laugh leaving his lips.

“I’m Junior.”

“It was nice meeting you again, Junior,” Mark said, beaming at him.

As he was exiting the shop, Junior turned around, suddenly remembering something.

“Oh, about that shirt, I want to pay for the cleaning.”

“It’s okay, I already told you it was an old shirt. I threw it away,” Mark declined.

“Then let me buy you lunch sometimes,” Junior offered.

Mark seemed to ponder his words.

“Deal.”

Junior left the store in a daze, blinded by the man’s bright smile. He stared at the business card still in his hand, letting his finger follow the intricate design. As he was about to put it in his wallet, he paused, intrigued. Lifting the card to his face, he inhaled slowly, surprised at the faint floral scent that emanated from it. Even his business card is so lovely!

3

Day 115

In the months following Junior’s first visit to the flower shop, he found any excuse possible to go back there. Without fail, at least once a week, usually on his way back from work, he stopped at the store to see Mark. Officially, to buy flowers for his family and friends – his mother had never received so many flowers in her life. After the fourth or fifth time, Junior had to stop as she was getting suspicious. He then pretended to need some information for the company he was working for. He knew Mark was probably well aware he came under false pretenses, but as long as they both turned a blind eye to it, Junior would not stop.

As the time went by, Junior spent more and more time at the flower shop, staying a bit longer each time. Mark didn’t seem to mind, Junior always bringing small gifts with him on each of his visits. Sometimes a cold drink from a coffee shop nearby, sometimes the strawberry candy Mark seemed to like a lot, sometimes a small trinket he had gotten from a nearby vending machine or even a cookie he had made himself. Each new offering elicited a warm, grateful smile from Mark.

At first, Junior was afraid Mark only tolerated him, maybe taking pity on him, thinking he might not have any friends. But he soon realized he was worried over nothing. Mark was just a kind person who seemed to enjoy the time they spent together. Over time, Junior learned a lot about Mark. He learned that Mark was an only child, but had always wanted a big family.

“My mom thinks I want to have my own football team, but honestly, I’d be happy with two or three kids. Even without kids, if my partner has siblings, that would also be great. What about you, Phi?” he had casually asked Junior one afternoon, sipping on an iced Americano like his words didn’t just send an arrow straight through Junior’s heart.

“I have two brothers,” Junior had answered, disoriented.

Mark had chuckled brightly, his eyes full of glee.

“That must be nice. But, I meant, do you want to have children?”

“Hmm, I haven’t given it a lot of thought, but I guess I would be okay with two kids or so, if my partner wished so.”

Mark had continued chatting happily, but Junior had kept getting distracted, his mind stuck on their earlier conversation. He couldn’t help daydreaming about a future with Mark. Raising children with him didn’t seem bad at all.

Junior also learned that Mark was more of a cat person, even though he always spoiled Pompom, buying treats for him and constantly asking Junior how he was. He learned that Mark loved reading, always having a stack of books lying around, just in case he had some free time. He learned that Mark had the habit of scrunching up his face cutely when he was deep in thought, or that his eyes always grew comically big when he saw something cute. The more Junior got to know him, the fonder he became of him. Every new side of him he discovered felt like a new puzzle piece he could add to the whole picture that was Mark.

That day, Junior once again stopped at the flower shop. The store was quite busy when he arrived, people waiting in line at the counter to pay for their purchases, so Junior decided to take a look around, not wanting to bother Mark.

“You can wait for me at the back, I’ll join you later,” Mark told him between serving two customers, smiling sweetly at him.

Junior nodded, making his way to the back of the store. He entered the small break room and headed straight to the sofa, setting down the drink he had brought for Mark on the coffee table before sitting down. Mark had rearranged that room a few weeks after Junior had started his weekly visits – it first served as a storage room. This way, they would have a space where they could lounge comfortably, Mark had told him when asked. That had made Junior’s heart soar, staring at the proof that Mark was thinking of him, that he cared enough to even let him enter his safe space.

Now, he sat down waiting, taking a book from the pile on the coffee table to pass the time. Engrossed in the story, Junior didn’t see the time go by, and soon enough, Mark entered the room himself, plopping down on the sofa beside Junior, his head resting against the cushion, his eyes closing as a soft sigh escaped his lips.

“Sorry about that,” he said, opening his eyes again to take a look at the man sitting at his side. “Today was a busy day. I didn’t even have time to have lunch,” he admitted, his stomach rumbling as soon as the words left his lips.

Junior put down the book in his hands to rummage through his bag, bringing a sandwich wrapped in foil out of it and handing it to Mark, who in answer smiled gratefully at him.

“You’re the best, Phi,” he exclaimed, munching happily on the food.

“The drink is also for you,” Junior told him, gesturing at the plastic cup on the coffee table. “Let’s go eat dinner after this. A sandwich won’t fill you up after working all day on an empty stomach.”

Mark nodded, his mouth full. He swallowed, turning towards Junior as if he suddenly remembered something important.

“By the way, Phi, do you have any plans this Saturday?”

Junior paused to think about his schedule for the weekend.

“I don’t. Why?”

“I have tickets for the new musical that just came out. Wanna go with me?”

Junior froze, stunned. Was Mark asking him on a date?

Mark, taking the other man’s silence for reluctance, added, a forced smile on his lips, “I was supposed to go with my ex, but he bailed on me at the last minute, so now I can’t get a refund, and I have no one to go with me.”

Junior’s heart stopped.

“Your ex?” he asked weakly, feeling all color drain from his face. Of course, Mark must have had a partner. How could he not? But Junior couldn’t help but feel dejected at the news, all the glee he had felt seconds ago replaced by dread.

Mark, not sensing the other man’s trouble, nodded in agreement.

“Yeah. I swear, that guy lives to make my life miserable.”

“That must be why he’s an ex,” Junior joked, even though his heart was not into it.

Mark laughed in reply, the bright sound lifting Junior’s mood somehow, even in his current state.

“That, and the fact that we didn’t agree on anything.”

Junior didn’t know how to feel about Mark’s admission. On the one hand, he was happy Mark felt close enough to confide in him. On the other hand, he felt disheartened knowing Mark had recently come out of a relationship.

“Are you okay, Phi?”

Junior startled at the words, unable to guess how long he had been lost in thought. He rubbed at his face with a sigh.

“Yeah, just tired.”

“Was work busy?” Mark asked him with genuine curiosity.

“Yeah, there’s just so much to do with the new branch opening soon.”

“Cheer up, Phi! You can do it,” Mark said, leaning in to give Junior a hug. He tightened his embrace for a few seconds before letting go, unaware of Junior’s inner turmoil.

“Let’s go, Phi,” he added, standing up. “I’m so hungry, I could probably eat a bear.”

Junior couldn’t help the chuckle that left his mouth, sadness forgotten from the moment Mark’s arms had closed around him.

4

Day 257

“Wait, Phi. Is it really okay for me to come?”

Junior was currently dragging a reluctant Mark through the animated streets of Bangkok on a Saturday night. Book, one of Junior’s friends, was celebrating his birthday at a nearby bar, and he had told Junior he could bring Mark with him. Book was one of his closest friends, so of course, Junior had told him about his crush on the other man. Totally in control in appearance, Junior was just as worried as Mark in that moment. He was afraid Book would tease him, or worse, knowing how subtle he always was, he would spill his secret to Mark.

“Don’t worry, Book invited you personally,” he replied to Mark, trying to reassure him, and maybe reassure himself.

They arrived at the bar not long after, Junior making his way directly to Book’s table, easy to spot with the birthday boy being as exuberant as he usually was.

“Junior! Finally, I thought you’d bail on me,” Book exclaimed, greeting him with a back slap. He then turned towards Mark. “And you must be the great Mark.”

He extended his hand, Mark shaking it uneasily, perplexed at the nickname Book had used.

“Phi, why did he call me the great Mark?” he asked Junior, a frown on his face.

Junior shrugged his shoulders, facepalming on the inside.

“No idea.”

They sat down, Book handing them two small glasses of alcohol.

“Sorry Bro, I’m driving tonight, so I can’t drink,” Junior told him with an apologetic smile.

“You’re no fun! Just one to cheer for my birthday?”

Junior agreed as the night was still young, and he had hours left before he had to drive. With a loud cheer, they all clinked glasses. Junior threw his head back, the liquid leaving a trail of fire as it went down his throat. He took a look at his friends, pleading them silently not to embarrass him. Force was sitting casually, his chair turned backwards, leaning against the back, his eyes on Book. Book, for his part, had a wicked grin on his face and a dangerous twinkle in his eyes. Junior knew the night would be long – and full of embarrassment.

After some time, Junior finally relaxed. A bit shy at the start, Mark had soon warmed up to Junior’s friends, laughing easily with Book, sharing stories about his flower shop with Force, answering every one of their questions earnestly. They seemed just as charmed with him as he was. Junior was happy to see Mark get on well with his friends. One more reason to love him.

While Junior drank only soda and water after his first shot, as far as the others were concerned, beer and vodka were flowing profusely. Soon enough, everyone at their table except Junior was drunk.

“So,” Book started, looking at Mark with droopy eyes, “What do you think about Junior?”

Junior was two seconds away from slamming his face on the table.

Mark, way past his limit, smiled dreamily.

“He’s the best, Phi!”

Three heads turned towards him, each one with its own expression. Book with laughter in his eyes. Force with a teasing smirk on his lips. Junior with the deepest shade of red on his cheeks.

“Is he?” Force asked, a playful glint in his eye. “How so?”

Junior tried to stand up to leave, not sure he was ready to hear what Mark thought of him, but Book blocked him with an arm on his chest.

“Don’t try to escape,” he said with a laugh.

Mark, unaware of the whole commotion, replied, “He’s always so nice to me, visiting my store after work, even on the days he works overtime. Always bringing me gifts, trying to cheer me up. He even takes me home sometimes, so that I don’t have to take the BTS.”

He laughed warmly.

“I think he’s afraid I don’t have any friends,” he whispered, as if he was sharing a secret.

Junior couldn’t help laughing at that.

“What?” Mark whined, putting his hand on Junior’s arm, looking at him with big, round eyes.

“I’ve always thought that’s what you might think of me. That I don’t have any friends,” Junior admitted.

“No way, Phi. How could someone like you not have friends?” Mark retorted, his face scrunching up at the thought.

“Someone like me?”

“You’re so nice and friendly. Anyone would love to be your friend!”

“But he might not want to be just your friend,” Book countered with a sly smile, enjoying himself way too much.

Junior gasped, turning towards Book to glare at him. He waited for Mark to laugh or maybe look at him with disgust in his eyes, but nothing came. When he looked at the younger man, he saw him leaning against the back of his chair, his eyes closed, snoring softly.

“He’s out of it,” Force observed. “I think we better call it a night.”

“Already?” Book whined. “I want to drink mooore!”

“You’re already wasted,” Force retorted, taking him by the arm to help him stand up. He turned towards Junior. “Can you handle him? Or do you need help?”

“Don’t worry, I can take care of him. You handle him,” Junior replied, pointing at Book, currently trying to climb on Force’s back.

“I can handle myself, thank you,” Book interjected sassily. “You better take care of your boyfriend… Bro”

“He’s my friend,” Junior retorted, the emphasis on the last word contrasting with his true feelings, if the blush on his cheeks was any indication.

“Whatever.” Book waved his hand dismissively. “Maybe you should make him your boyfriend though,’ he added. “He’s a keeper.”

Junior shooed him, his heart racing at his friend’s words, and Book grinned drunkenly at him before slumping back against Force. The latter lifted the birthday boy in his arms effortlessly before making his way out of the bar, waving at Junior.

Junior watched their backs until they left, then turned once more towards Mark, gently shaking his shoulder.

“Mark, wake up. Let’s get you back home.”

“Hmm”

Mark opened his eyes slowly, a slow grin forming on his lips as he looked at Junior.

“Phi,” he whispered, his face leaning close to the older man.

Junior was stunned when he felt Mark’s face snuggle in the crook of his neck, his hands going around his back to hold him gently.

“You’re so warm.”

Junior leaned back, reluctantly leaving Mark’s embrace.

“You’re drunk. You need to sleep,” he told him, his face a mask of calm, but his heart beating fast.

He got up, putting his arm around Mark to help him stand up, supporting his body like a human crutch as he guided him to his car. He helped him sit down in the passenger seat, buckling him up before going around the car to sit in the driver’s seat. Starting the car, he turned on the radio to the lowest setting, choosing a station known for playing mellow and soft tunes.

The car ride back to Mark’s place was peaceful, Junior sometimes glancing at Mark to make sure he was comfortable, and soon enough, he stopped his car in front of Mark’s building. Stopping the engine, he took a slow breath before turning towards the sleeping figure beside him.

“Mark, we’re here,” he said softly, shaking his shoulder to wake him up.

“Five more minutes,” Mark mumbled, pressing his face against the seat.

Junior sighed. Okay, let’s get you home. He carefully unbuckled Mark’s seat belt, then made his way around the car and opened the door to let him out. Bending at the waist, he gently put his arms around Mark, one around his back and the other under his legs, lifting him into his arms, closing the door with his foot.

Mark was so light, he arrived in front of his door in no time, not even breaking a sweat. He took a key from under one of the flowerpots Mark had placed there – to make it more welcoming, he had once told Junior, and opened the door, making sure the man in his arms was still asleep. Thankfully, Junior knew his way around Mark’s condo, having been invited there before. He took him to his bedroom, putting him down on the bed gently, lifting the sheets and tucking him in. Mark barely moved, only letting a soft sigh leave his lips. Junior smiled at the sight.

He left the room to find some supplies, coming not long after with a water bottle, some medicine, and a stack of sticker notes and pen. He quickly wrote a small note to advise the currently drunk man to drink a lot of water to cure his hangover, hesitating before adding a small heart, then stuck it to the water bottle, placing everything on the nightstand.

As he was about to leave the room, he stopped, feeling something tugging at the hem of his shirt. He looked down and froze when he saw Mark’s hand gripping it.

“Don’t go,” he whispered sleepily, his eyes still closed but his grip firm.

Junior watched as he let his hand slide up his shirt, reaching for Junior’s cuff before his fingers trailed down to intertwine with Junior’s own. He then tugged gently, Junior falling on the bed at the motion.

“What are you doing?” He asked, is heart beating faster by the second.

“I’m cold, Phi.” He waited a second. “Hold me.”

In a daze, Junior slowly reached out for Mark, taking him in his arms carefully, afraid he might change his mind. His heart was beating so fast, in contrast to the steady heartbeat he could feel against his chest, Mark being tucked so close to him.

“You’re so warm”, Mark told him for the second time that night, shifting even closer, his face pressed against Junior’s chest.

Junior breathed deeply, trying to keep his calm, resigned to letting the younger man use him as his personal hot water bottle. He’s so drunk he probably doesn’t even realize what he’s doing.

“Please stay until I fall asleep,” Mark whispered, as if to contradict Junior’s thoughts.

Junior sighed, his hold on Mark’s body tightening.

“Sure. Now, get back to sleep,” he told him, stroking his back softly.

Mark snuggled even closer, lifting his leg to hook it around Junior’s frame, a content sigh leaving his lips as he drifted off to sleep.

When Junior drove back home later that night, he knew he was doomed. He would never be able to forget the feeling of Mark’s body in his arms.

5

Day 365

The day had started just like any other Saturday. Junior had met Force in the morning, joining him for a gym session before grabbing a bite to eat on their way back. He had planned to do some cleaning and run some errands in the afternoon, but just as he was about to start, he received a phone call from Mark.

“Hello?”

“Hi, Phi. Are you busy right now?”

Mark’s voice boomed out of the speaker, the background noise loud, like he was in a crowed place.

“I’m not. I was just about to tidy my place. Why, what’s up?”

“I closed the flower shop for the day. Do you wanna hangout?”

Junior paused, puzzled. Mark hardly ever took any day off, always pushing himself, even when he was sick, just to make sure his customers could rely on him. Junior was curious about what would make the man decide to close his store, even for just a day.

“Sure,” he replied agreeably. “Where are you?”

Mark told him he was at a shopping mall across the city.

“I can be there in one hour, one hour and a half tops. Is that fine?” Junior replied, afraid Mark would be bothered with having to wait for too long.

“No problem, Phi. I have to buy some things anyway. Call me you arrive.”

Junior hung up after bidding Mark goodbye and wasted no time getting ready. Taking a look at what he was wearing – an old shirt and gym shorts, he decided to change into more presentable clothes. Don’t overdo it, he chastised himself, choosing a simple pair of blue jeans and white t-shirt instead of the shirt and slacks he first had in mind. Dressed, his hair combed, a spritz of cologne on his neck and wrists, he grabbed his car keys and made his way out of his condo.

When he arrived at the shopping mall, he understood why the background noise had been so loud during their phone call. The place was packed, people apparently gathered on the first floor for a popup event. He took his phone out of his pocket and dialed Mark’s number.

“I’m here. Where are you?” He asked him as soon as he picked up.

“I’m on the fourth floor. There were too many people around so I found a coffee shop to sit down and wait.”

“I’ll be there in a second,” Junior told him, already reaching the escalators.

They chatted as Junior made his way to find Mark. Once on the fourth floor, just as he was about to ask Mark his exact location, Junior stopped. He could see him from where he was. Mark was sitting at a coffee shop a few meters away, his head down, one hand holding his phone against his ear, his other hand tracing small circles on the table. He hadn’t noticed him yet.

Junior was left speechless, taking in Mark’s appearance. He wore a light blue shirt, the first couple of buttons undone, and brown slacks. His hair, longer than when Junior had first met him, was slightly curled at the ends, framing his face, making his features even softer than they usually were. In a word, he looked ethereal.

Before Junior could ponder why the younger man had dressed up, Mark raised his head, a bright smile appearing on his face as he saw Junior. He waved him over, hanging up, and handed him a drink as soon as he reached the table.

“I ordered you a matcha,” he said with a smile.

“Thanks.”

Junior’s smile was so big he was afraid he might strain his face. Mark had ordered his favorite drink. He sat down, sipping on the cold drink with delight.

“How come you closed the flower shop?” He asked the man in front of him, eyeing him curiously.

“Oh, I had an appointment…” Mark trailed off, not meeting Junior’s gaze.

The wheels turning in his head, Junior frowned.

“A date?” He asked, unable to completely hide the panic in his voice.

“What? No! Of course not.”

Marks seemed offended at Junior’s suggestion. He inhaled, like he was about to add something but shook his head instead, lifting the cup in front of him to take a sip. They stayed silent for some time, both of them lost in thought. The air around them buzzed with tension, unlike the relaxed atmosphere that usually surrounded them.

“Let’s go shopping, Phi,” Mark suddenly exclaimed, slamming his hands on the table and standing up, startling Junior out of his thoughts.

Before he could do anything, Mark reached out, grabbing his arm with one hand, the other taking the now empty cups to throw them away. He walked through the corridors like he owned the shopping mall, guiding Junior through the crowd, his hand clasped around his wrist gently, never letting go. Junior could only follow him in a daze. They went around the shopping mall for hours, the tension slowly fading as time went by. Store after store, Junior’s mind eased. Mark was his usual self. Chatting away happily as they shopped. Joking with Junior at every occasion. Even trying to buy him a stuffed toy that looked just like his beloved Pompom.

“You’re always giving me things, Phi,” he said with pleading eyes. “Let me buy this for you.”

Unable to resist Mark’s cuteness, Junior had agreed, and he was now hugging the toy against his chest, his face pushed against the fabric to feel its softness. He lifted his head at Mark’s fond laugh, a deep blush creeping up his cheeks.

“What?”

Mark shook his head, still laughing.

“Nothing, Phi. It’s just cute.”

Junior froze.

“Huh?”

“You’re cute,” Mark replied, walking towards the next store happily, like he hadn’t just made Junior’s whole world spin once again.

Once they had shopped to their heart’s content, they decided to have dinner at one of Mark’s favorite restaurants – Junior’s suggestion. They made their way to the last floor, and in no time, they were sitting at a table for two, mouthwatering dishes set in front of them. Mark dug in quickly, munching on the food happily. Junior, for his part, was nibbling on the food, savoring Mark’s every expression, his face full of joy, more than the dishes in front of them.

They left the restaurant, Mark rubbing his belly with contentment, Junior laughing at his antics. When Mark stopped in his tracks, Junior shot him a curious look. Before he could ask him if anything was wrong, Mark shouted out a surprised Phi as he looked at something, or rather someone, a few meters away.

The man, tall and masculine, shot Mark a small, joyful smile as he approached them.

“Nong Mark. It’s been a long time! How have you been?” Before Mark had any time to reply, he added in mock reproach, “You keep ignoring my texts.”

“Sorry, Phi, I’ve been busy lately,” Mark replied, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly.

Junior stared at them, lost.

“Ah, Phi, this is Junior, my… friend.”

Mark turned towards Junior with a soft smile as the stranger nodded his head in greeting.

“Phi Junior, this is Phi Great. My ex.”

Junior felt his world crash down at Mark’s last words. His eyes grew big, his fists clenching at his sides, their hold getting even stronger as he noticed the small smirk on Great’s face, his eyes gazing at Junior’s hands knowingly. The two men kept chatting, Junior unable to follow their conversation, his mind blank, his heart crumbling in a million shards, like broken glass.

“I’ll let you two catch up,” he said, nudging Mark’s arm gently, a forced smile etched on his face. “I’m gonna get some fresh air.”

He left before he could hear Mark’s reply, unable to stand the sight of the men standing close, laughing together, for even a second longer. He went to the rooftop, sitting down on one of the benches, his head in his hands, sighing heavily. The night was warm and pleasant, and on any other day, Junior would have enjoyed gazing at the city far below, neon signs and headlights illuminating the night sky, the sound of traffic and bars nearby like a sound and light show made just for him.

Now, instead, his mind was spiraling. What if Mark had dressed up for him? The two men had seemed surprised to see each other, but Junior couldn’t help wondering. He was jealous. Jealous knowing that Great was Mark’s ex, yet he still looked at him kindly. Still laughed and joked with him. Still seemed so close to him. Junior couldn’t stand it.

“Phi, are you okay?”

Junior looked up at the small voice coming from his side. Mark was looking at him with concern. Or was it pity? Junior was not sure. Mark sat down beside him, his eyes never leaving his face.

“Is it him?” Junior asked, ignoring Mark’s question.

“Huh?”

“That guy… Phi Great.”

Just saying his name left a bitter taste in his mouth, like venom on his tongue.

“It’s the ex that bailed on you last time, right?”

Mark looked at him, confused.

“Oh, for the musical? Yes, yes, that’s him,” Mark answered with a chuckle.

Junior gaped at him, his ears ringing at the admission. The fact that Mark could laugh about this should have made him happy, but instead it was like someone had pierced his heart with a sword. He looked away, avoiding Mark’s gaze, not wanting to see the glee radiating from his face.

“Phi…”

Mark paused, a soft exhale leaving his lips. Junior tensed at the sound, bracing for the words of rejection he was sure would come.

“Look at me,” Mark whispered instead.

Junior complied reluctantly. Even though his heart ached, he couldn’t resist Mark. He never could. He turned his eyes towards Mark, trying his best to hide the pain reflected in them.

“Are you jealous?” Mark asked him, his voice so low he could barely hear it.

Junior nodded, afraid to say any words.

“Why?”

Junior stared at him without a word. The real question was, how could he not, when he was hopelessly in love with Mark?

“I… I just…” he stuttered, trying to find the right words. “You seem so close to him, and I know I don’t have any right to feel sad or hurt, but I can’t help it.”

He lowered his eyes again, unable to look Mark in the eye for long.

“We’re friends. We didn’t date for long, to be honest, because we quickly realized we were much better as friends.”

“Are you really over him?” Junior asked, his voice full of worry.

Mark sighed heavily. He leaned closer towards Junior, resting his head on the other man’s shoulder. Junior felt his whole body tense up.

“We broke up ages ago, and as I said, we didn’t date for long anyway.”

He lifted his hand to stroke Junior’s hair, looking up to gaze at his face.

“You have nothing to be worried about, Phi.”

Junior was speechless, his heart beating so fast he was afraid Mark could hear it.

“Mark…”

Before he could say anything else, Mark shushed him, putting a finger against his lips. Junior froze at the gesture.

“Phi, you really don’t have to worry. I’m not in love with Phi Great…”

He stared at Junior intently, like he was waiting for him to fill in the blanks. But Junior’s brain was stuck, overdriven with information. The feeling of Mark’s touch on his lips. The weight of his head against his shoulder. The faint smell of his cologne. The affection in his eyes. It was all too much.

Mark chuckled, like he could see the wheels turning in Junior’s head. He leaned back to rummage in his bag, asking Junior, “Do you know what day it is?”

Junior looked at him, confused both by his words and by the small, rectangular box he was handing him.

“Saturday?”

Mark laughed, the fond look on his face melting Junior’s heart. He took Junior’s hand, closing his fingers around the small box.

“Today, it’s been exactly one year since the first time we met,” Mark told him, his eyes shining.

“Huh?”

Junior stared at him, dumbfounded. Has it already been a year? He couldn’t believe it. He looked down at the box in his hand, wrapped in a red satin ribbon, then looked back at Mark.

“Did you buy me a present?”

Mark nodded, a light blush dusting his cheeks.

“Can I open it now?”

“Of course, Phi! That’s why I gave it you.”

Mark was looking at him expectantly, a slight worried look on his face. Junior carefully untied the bow, setting it down beside him on the bench, then opened the box. He froze. Inside was a delicate silver chain with a moon pendant. He stared at it in shock.

“There’s a card with it,” Mark whispered, pointing at a small card stuck to the inside of the box.

Junior took it, his eyes growing wide as the words written on it registered in his mind.

Will you be my boyfriend?

He looked up at Mark, his mouth agape, not trusting his eyes.

“So, will you?” The younger man asked him, the hope in his voice warm enough to light a hundred candles.

Junior lunged at him, his arms flying around his shoulders, hugging him tightly.

“I love you,” he finally admitted, his face hidden in the crook of Mark’s neck. “I’m so in love with you.”

Mark chuckled, ruffling his hair fondly.

“I guess that’s a yes.”

“Yes!” Junior exclaimed, inhaling his now boyfriend’s intoxicating scent. “A thousand times yes.”

Mark leaned back, pushing Junior away slightly to look him in the eye. The smile he shot Junior was the warmest, most loving expression he had ever seen Mark wear.

“I love you, Phi.”

Simple words, yet they held so much meaning. Knowing that Mark felt the same way, Junior was on cloud nine. He watched with awe as Mark closed the distance between them, pressing his lips softly against his mouth. He gasped at the softness of his lips, and Mark took the opportunity to take Junior’s bottom lip between his own, tugging at it gently. He took control of the kiss, his hands resting on Junior’s waist, holding him close to his body. Junior was lightheaded, the sensation of Mark’s lips on his so intoxicating he thought he might get drunk on it. He wrapped his arms around Mark’s neck, one hand sliding up to run through his hair, marveling at its softness. When Mark finally leaned back, lips red and swollen, eyes shining brighter than stars, face flushed, Junior fell in love with him all over again.

“You’re so pretty,” he whispered, in awe at the sight of the man still in his embrace.

“Phiii,” Mark whined, punching him lightly on the shoulder, but not moving away.

They stayed sitting there for a long time, side by side, staring at the night sky, their hearts in sync, the stars the only witness of their blooming love.

“Ah, I also brought you flowers, Phi. They’re in my car,” Mark told Junior, his head resting on his shoulder, planting a soft kiss on the side of Junior’s neck.

Of course, he did.

+1 

Day 730

They were in their living room, lying on the sofa watching TV on a Saturday afternoon. The rainy season was in full swing, and rather than going out and having to endure the rain, they had decided to stay in and have a movie marathon.

“We haven’t done this in so long,” Mark had told Junior earlier that morning, his eyes pleading, to wear him down after he had told him he planned to go the gym with his friends.

The truth is, ever since they had moved in together a few weeks earlier, Mark had barely seen Junior. He was always working overtime, stressed with the launch of his company’s newest product. Mark, for his part, was just as busy, his flower shop overflowing with orders for weddings and business celebrations.

Mark missed Junior. He missed seeing his face when he woke up in the morning instead of post-it notes stuck to the pillow beside him, Junior always leaving before his alarm even rang. He missed eating dinner together, each of them sharing funny stories about their day. He missed cuddling together on the sofa before bed, the TV background noise as he rested his head on Junior’s chest, while the older man played with his hair gently, sometimes leaving soft kisses on the top of his head. 

So, he pleaded, begged shamelessly, pouting at Junior, knowing full well how weak he was against it, just to get what he wanted – and of course he did. And here they were, watching some romantic comedy, Junior tucked safely into Mark’s arms, his back against Mark’s chest spreading warmth through his whole body, the scent of his shampoo subtle but so comforting. Pompom, who Mark now also considered his own dog, was lying on his bed beside the sofa, sleeping peacefully.

On the screen, the male lead was confessing his love to the female lead, monologuing about all the ways in which he had fallen for her. Mark felt Junior move, and eyed him curiously as he turned around, watching him now instead of the TV.

“What are you doing?” He asked with a chuckle. He could almost hear the thoughts running inside Junior’s head, his face always so expressive.

“When did you fall for me?” 

Mark smiled at Junior warmly, taking some time to ponder his answer.

“Do you remember the wedding at Magic Love House I did the flower arrangements for?”

“Ah, the day there was this big storm when you had to get the flowers delivered?”

Mark nodded. 

He remembered that day quite well. It was a big wedding, some influential families that hoped to strengthen their business relationships through marrying their children. Mark had been surprised when they had come to him for their flower arrangements. He was used to smaller scale events, but they had insisted on working with him, the mother of the bride having fallen in love with his creations. She had come to his shop with her phone in hand, showing him pictures she had captured at a wedding a few months ago, raving at the beauty of the arrangements. While Mark was anxious to take on such a big project, he also knew it would give him a lot of exposure, so he accepted. 

He had regretted it on the day of the wedding, his stress levels skyrocketing from the moment he arrived at his flower shop that morning. While all the arrangements were ready, none of the delivery drivers he worked with were available. The one he had booked well in advance had cancelled with an apologetic phone call just as he entered his shop, explaining he had had a small accident because of the ongoing storm. Trying not to panic, Mark had called every number in his directory in search of a replacement, to no avail. Of course, nobody was available at such short notice.

In a last fit of hope, he had called Junior. While he felt sorry to bother the older man on a weekend, knowing full well how busy he always was, he really needed the help. Junior had agreed, and not ten minutes later, he was standing in front of him. Mark could have hugged him from relief, holding back to instead give him instructions as they loaded Junior’s car, carefully placing the flowers so that they wouldn’t break during transport. Junior had promised to keep him updated, waving at him as he had driven out of the parking lot.

And he had kept his promise. All throughout the day, he had kept sending texts to Mark, attaching pictures to show him how things were going. One of his car on the parking lot at the back of the venue. One of the trunk of his car, open to show the flowers, all intact and ready to be delivered. One of the wedding planning team placing the arrangements inside the venue. A selfie of him, smiling at the camera, his thumb up to show Mark everything was under control. Mark had informed the team at the venue of the change of plans to make sure every thing would go smoothly, and he was glad to see all was well. When Junior had come back to his shop later that day, Mark had fallen into his arms, feeling so grateful he couldn’t help the tears that were rolling down his cheeks.

Now, still gazing at Junior, a teasing glint in his eyes, Mark answered, “You wore a white t-shirt that day, and it was raining a lot.”

He laughed as Junior looked at him with offended eyes, sitting up with a yelp, his arms going up to his chest as if to shield his body from Mark’s wandering eyes. Pompom, hearing his human fussing, jumped up from his bed, his eyes alert.

“Pompom, don’t worry about Daddy, he’s just being dramatic,” Mark told the dog, smiling brightly, entertained by his boyfriend’s reaction.

Truth be told, Mark had not even realized Junior’s t-shirt was see-through when he had entered the flower shop that evening. What he had noticed first was the warmth in Junior’s eyes. From the moment he had entered the flower shop, his eyes had landed on Mark, like a homing device targeting him. The first words that had left his mouth had been words of reassurance, making sure Mark knew everything had gone well. Making sure Mark knew he had done his best. 

I want to kiss him.

The thought had left Mark breathless, like a punch to the gut. In that moment, it was like he was seeing Junior for the first time. The way his hands were playing with the hem of his t-shirt almost nervously. The way he was turned fully towards Mark, waiting for him to make the first move. The way his eyes shone with hope and warmth. So much warmth it had taken Mark’s breath away. He had closed the distance between them, putting his arms around him to hug him tightly, tears flowing down his face silently. 

After he had stopped crying, his shoulders finally relaxing as the pressure of the day had slowly left his body, only then had Mark realized that Junior’s t-shirt was not only stained with his tears, but also completely soaked because of the rain. He had stepped back, telling Junior to wait for him as he went to fetch a towel at the back. When he had come back, that’s when he had taken in Junior’s appearance. Raindrops were trickling down his face, and his t-shirt was plastered against his body, hugging every curve. Mark had gulped nervously as he had handed the towel to Junior, turning around to crouch behind the counter, seemingly back to the task he was on before Junior had arrived, but in truth trying to hide his blushing face.

Without him noticing, Junior had slowly made his way into his life, into his heart. And that fateful day, Mark had finally realized he might not be able to live without Junior. Or rather, he didn’t want to live a life without Junior in it.

Now, still sitting on the sofa, Junior suddenly let himself flop down on his back, sighing dramatically.

“I can’t believe you fell for my body first.”

Mark chuckled, crawling over him, his head resting on Junior’s chest. 

“I first fell for your warmth,” he replied, looking up, his chin resting on top of Junior’s heart. He could feel his heart beating steadily, the feeling calm and comforting. Leaning up, Mark planted a soft kiss on Junior’s cheek, then turned his head to the side, his lips grazing Junior’s ear.

“Your body’s just a bonus,” he whispered, leaning back to wink at Junior, a wide grin on his face.