Episode 5

Are you living alone, Kanya? Dunk asked after a while.

The eldest one is working abroad, and the youngest is staying in his college hostel. So, I’ll be alone until the weekend, Kanya explained.

You don’t have any helpers around the house? Dunk asked.

I like cleaning my house myself. It’s therapeutic for me, she replied. Is your room comfortable?

Yeah, it’s really nice. I love the calm atmosphere here, Dunk answered.

Don’t feel uncomfortable. I didn’t bring you here to justify myself, Kanya said, her tone softening. I was young and naive back then. I know I made mistakes. But if I didn’t have even one motherly moment with you, I wouldn’t be a real mother.

I’m sorry, but it will take me some time to accept you as a mother, he hesitantly said.

I understand, Kanya said kindly. But can I be your friend?

Sure, he smiled.

Do you have any plans here? Kanya asked.

I’m not sure yet, but I’ll figure it out.

Well, I have an art gallery, Kanya said. I'm short of staff. Can you help me with managing that? I promise I'll pay you handsomely.

Dunk laughed. Sure! Is there an interview I need to attend, Mrs. Kanya?

Actually, there is no interview. You’re hired as my little helper, chosen by the CEO herself, she joked.

They both laughed.

Okay, let’s go to bed. My youngest son will be home tomorrow. I’ll introduce you to him.

Okay, goodnight.

Hey everyone! This is my new contact. Dunk reached out to his friends Sirin and Kawin, and they all joined a video call together.

Is everything alright? How's your biological mom? Sirin inquired.

She's a good woman, Dunk replied.

It's nighttime there, right? Why are you still awake? Are you having trouble sleeping? Kawin asked next.

Yeah, it's just jet lag.

Could you give us a tour of your room? I heard the architecture in Z country is really artistic, Sirin asked.

It definitely is! It looks amazing here. I love it, Dunk said, showing off his surroundings. Check out these paintings! These are her paintings.

They're incredible! Sirin exclaimed, her eyes widening.

Dunk, I have a task for you. From now on, I want you to report every move your mom makes to me so I can keep you safe.

Wow, she's really bold, Kawin remarked.

Shut your mouth Kawin. I'm just protecting our friend.

Don't pretend, okay? Dunk knows, I know, and you know what you're thinking.

You shameless woman! Are you trying to make her the next character in your book? Dunk asked.

Oh no, I got busted! But seriously, look at her paintings; she'd make a great female lead for my next story.

Alright, enough drama. I’ll help you out, Dunk said.

No, I have a better idea. You’re going to introduce me to her, and I’ll befriend her.

Say goodbye to her peaceful life, Kawin joked.

Sirin, you do know she has kids your age, right? Kawin asked.

You...What are you thinking about me? I watch BL, but I'm straight, you know, Sirin replied.

Oh really? So, do I have a chance? Kawin smirked.

You should really tone down the flirting within our group, Kawin, Dunk teased.

Yeah! It's pretty gross, Sirin added.

I'm not offended; I’m used to it by now.

Alright, I’ll call my mom now. Talk to you guys later!

Yeah, see you! both replied.

Later, Dunk called home.

Hello, Mom, what are you doing?

We just ate. How’s everything? Is everything okay there? His mom asked.

Yeah, everything’s good. I even got a job here.

That’s great! You must be tired. Get some rest. I’ll call you later.

Okay, Mom. Bye.

Goodnight, dear. Take care.

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