why don't you stay

ch 12

With their lives now more interconnected, Phayu and Rain found themselves falling into a comfortable rhythm. They shared their days and nights, creating a home filled with little rituals that brought them closer. However, one evening, as they sat on the couch together, Rain turned to Phayu, a hesitant look on his face.

“There’s something I want to share with you,” Rain signed, his movements slower than usual, revealing his uncertainty.

Phayu shifted to face him fully, a gentle smile on his face. “Anything, Rain. I’m here to listen.”

Rain took a deep breath, his hands forming each sign with deliberate care. “I’ve been thinking about my family. I want you to meet my parents… officially. I mean, you’ve met them before, but never as my boyfriend.”

Phayu’s eyes softened, understanding the weight of Rain’s words. He reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Rain’s. “I’d be honored to meet them, Rain. Whatever pace feels right for you.”

Rain smiled, feeling the tension ease from his shoulders. Over the next week, they made plans, and the night finally arrived for their visit. Rain’s parents had invited them for a family dinner, and as they walked into the familiar warmth of Rain’s childhood home, memories flooded Rain’s mind. It was comforting, but he still felt a flutter of nerves.

Rain’s parents greeted them with welcoming smiles, and as they all sat down to dinner, conversation flowed easily. Rain felt grateful for the supportive presence of his parents and the gentle steadiness of Phayu by his side. At one point, Phayu shared stories of how he and Rain met, and Rain’s parents listened, smiling and laughing.

Halfway through the meal, Rain’s father cleared his throat, looking between Rain and Phayu. “Rain, we’re so happy to see you this happy.” He looked directly at Phayu, his tone sincere. “Thank you for taking care of him.”

Phayu nodded, signing back, “He takes care of me just as much. Rain means everything to me.”

After dinner, Rain and Phayu helped clear the table, then sat with Rain’s parents, talking late into the evening. Rain’s heart felt light, seeing Phayu so warmly accepted by his family, a moment he’d dreamed of for a long time.

As they left, Rain’s mother hugged him tightly, whispering, “I’m so proud of you, Rain. You’ve found someone who truly cherishes you.”

On the drive home, Rain turned to Phayu and signed, “Thank you for being so wonderful. Tonight meant a lot to me.”

Phayu smiled, reaching over to squeeze Rain’s hand. “I’ll always be here for you. Tonight was just the beginning.”

Rain felt his heart swell with love and gratitude. He knew that with Phayu by his side, he could face any future with courage and joy.