#PAT REALIZING IT'S NOT PRAN'S HAND BEFORE HE EVEN OPENED HIS EYES

[airenyah]

oh. okay. okay good. bad buddy got me

oh god. oh no. i just started pt 4 and. please tell me this isn't what we're supposed to be thinking that this is

[weilongfu]

Ai Pat! I don’t care how fit our workouts have made us! You’re not wearing *that* kind of speedo to the beach!!!

(Pat tries to convince Pran to let him wear a thong speedo on their vacation because the squats and deadlifts gave him a fat ass.~)

Pran knew that healthy habits and healthy means of stress relief were important to a long and healthy life, especially since the largest bulk of his stress was Pat himself. But there was only so much cutting down on condensed milk and drawing on his days off could do. There was also the need to mitigate Pat's preference for heavy drinking on the weekends.

The compromise was going to the gym together.

By and large, it worked. Pat exhausted himself on weights most of the time and Pran put on podcasts and ran for miles on end. They were fitter, slept better, found themselves with more energy, and Pran found his blood pressure was much lower when Pat was whining about muscle soreness instead of getting up to something troublesome.

There were other bonuses. Pat built up more muscle as he liked and Pran built up his stamina and speed as he liked. Gym days were also a day spent together, and even though Pat constantly egged Pran on one way or another, Pran got his revenge by increasing the weight (safely!) when Pat wasn't looking.

The real downside was that Pat was insufferable on the best of days and at his worst, Pran risked a stroke due to high blood pressure. These days, the amount of peacocking Pat was prone to brought Pran just to the edge, and not in any of the pleasurable ways. (Usually.) Pat spent as much time as possible shirtless or in short track shorts and boxers, displaying the way he'd filled out. But no amount of muscle on his frame could change Pat's insulted expression when Pran breezed by under his extended arm or by jabbing him just under his lats and into his ribs, causing Pat to jolt from pain and ticklishness.

So when Pran asked if Pat had finished packing for their upcoming vacation, he knew Pat would take advantage of the opportunity.

Pran failed to realize the extent to which Pat would attempt to take advantage of the opportunity.

"What do you think of my new swimwear?" Pat said as he strut into the living room in the barest piece of cloth that just kept his genitals in check with a thin waistband and an even thinner string that disappeared between his glutes. "Do you think people will stare too much?" Pran felt his eye twitch. "I mean, you're staring plenty already?"

"Ai Pat! I don’t care how fit our workouts have made us! You’re not wearing that kind of speedo to the beach!!"

"Are you sure?" Pat turned around and gave his own ass a cheeky slap. Pat had hardly been lacking in shape or curves prior, but Pran noticed a distinct difference in the way the slap sounded now that Pat had added several pounds of muscle to his ass. Pat's ass certainly didn't bounce the same way any more either. "It'd be a shame to let all this hard work go to waste, don't you think?" Pat stalked over to lean over Pran, evidence of his arousal was difficult to hide in the thong. "I'm also open to persuading you in other ways..."

Pran glared at Pat before tumbling them over and pressing Pat's chest into the couch with a hand on his back. Pat, stayed still, clearly enjoying the effect he had and getting exactly what he wanted. Pran gave Pat's ass several spanks of his own, noting the firm texture of built up muscle before pulling on the strings of the thong to move them aside and rub Pat's hole which was already slick with lube.

"You brat, why can't you ask for sex like a normal person?" Pran asked before sticking two fingers immediately inside. Pat groaned and thrust back on Pran's fingers. "And since when are you into underwear and swimwear kink?"

"Nnn... Just thought it made my ass look good," Pat said as Pran curled his fingers. "Doesn't it?"

"Well..." Pran paused as he pulled out his erection without pulling down his pants and thrust in. "Since you like it so much..." Pran reached around and squeezed Pat's erection painfully tight which meant it was almost enough for his obnoxious boyfriend. "You shouldn't cum or you'll stain it before vacation, and then where will we be?"

"Fuck! Ai Pran you-"

"Now be a good boy," Pran said as he pulled out and pulled Pat back onto his dick by the thong strings. "And make me cum instead."

"Ack! Pran, wait- Fuck!" Pat hissed as Pran slapped his balls after feeling the wetness leaking through Pat's swim thong. "You can't decide I'm not allowed to-"

"You're being naughty," Pran said with another thrust that his Pat right as he liked it, too hard and rough on his prostate. "So you're being punished."

Pat keened and buried his face further in the couch cushion. "Shit! You didn't let me cum last time either!"

"Then stop being a brat and maybe I'll let you next time!"

Pat pushed back on the next several thrusts before saying, "I'm topping next time, you can't stop me!"

Pran slowed his thrusts causing Pat to cry out before sticking a hand into the thong pouch to squeeze the base of Pat's dick. "I totally can if I want to."

Pat pushed Pran off his back before turning around and sitting right on Pran's dick in one smooth motion before setting the pace of his own squatting and bouncing. "Not if I fuck you silly first."

"Is this the best you can do after all those squats to build up your ass?" Pran said despite the color rising on his cheeks.

"I can do better," Pat said with a smirk and squeezed his internal muscles.

"Urgh! You and your fucking kegles!" Pran groaned and thrust up into Pat's body. "As if I'll let you- Shit!" Pat leaned down to kiss Pran through his orgasm, continuing to ride and milk his boyfriend.

"I love what that does to you," Pat said as he eased himself off of Pran and layed himself out on top of Pran's chest even though Pran complained about how heavy he was. "It's almost like an instant win button 80% of the time."

"It only works because I'm close already!"

"But that doesn't mean it doesn't work...." Pat kissed Pran's jaw. "So, what do you say? Keep the thong?"

"Does it even fit properly anymore? Did we stretch out the elastic on the strings?"

"You didn't treat it as bad as the jockstrap from the other time so it'll be fine."

[wanderingrain]

How does life continue to move forward after the Rooftop Scene TM? The way Pran, for one moment, allows himself to take the one thing he wants most in the whole world into his shaking hands. The way their tears fall at the same time right before they move towards each other. The music that feels like everything's about to change but also like coming home. The way Pat just stares at Pran before he even walks up to him and then just keeps staring because he's ready to give in, ready to admit to himself that he's in love with this boy, possibly has been forever but never noticed.

The way Pran tries to put on his Everything's Fine façade but just can't because you can see the pain in his eyes. The way he calls Pat out for sending him mixed signals, the first time he's ever hinted at his feelings for Pat. The way Pat kisses him first and it feels like relief. The way Pran pulls him back in for a second kiss because if this is all he's allowed, he's going to make it count. The way they're so desperate for each other.

The way Pat's hands clench at the back of Pran's head. The way Pran's sweaterpaw hand comes up to hold Pat's neck and cheek. The way you can tell how much Pran loves him from how delicately he holds him. The way the first time the separated, Pran was the first one to open his eyes and the second time Pat is because Pran knows when he opens his eyes it's all over.

The way Pat is so happy and relieved because this is just the beginning for him. The way Pran finally shatters because he's been in love for so long, has had years and years of telling himself that they'll never work out, that his love is a tragedy. The way Pat's whole world pieces itself together just as Pran's breaks apart. The way Pran walks away broken. The way Pat slowly realizes something's wrong. The way his face goes from relief to heartbreak. The way their parents messed them up so much.

How can we move on from this moment? How does the world keep turning?

[athousandbyeol]

i think it’s beautiful how pat and pran are a match made in heaven. at least to me, they are.

pat loves pran with everything he has. his heart, his body, his eyes, his hands, his lips, basically his entire existence- he bestows them all on pran. he’s like fireworks, bursting with energy and sparks and vibrant colours. he loves directly and outwardly, boisterous, bubbling, flowing, electric. he loves pran with the intensity of holding him by the waist and kisses him on the cheeks, lingering, out in the open, everywhere, anywhere. he loves pran with his boldness, his confidence. if i love someone, i will always let my lover win, i can be the heartbroken one. his love assures pran that it's going to be okay; even without those selfies, stories or anything in between, even if in secret, pat will still love him. pat will wait for him. he always will. he's so selfless and loving, and he's the right, the best person to love pran.

pran loves pat in subtleness, quietness, longing stares and words written on sticky notes. he loves pat with loitering, growing intensity, nurtured since high school, since forever. he loves pat in stillness, it's only anger, not hatred, i've always wanted to cook something for the person i like. closed behind his four walls and impromptu pecks on the lips, just between them. he knows pat loves that the most- catching him off-guard with his unexpected advances. he is aware of the power he holds on pat. the strength of his actions, his words, his facial expression, affects pat more than anything. pran takes advantage of that sometimes, just because he loves to see pat dissolving into a puddle of goo, pat.exe has stopped working, in complete shambles. he loves pat with the lyrics he wrote, the melody he composed, the guitar pick in between his fingers, the one pat made for him, never forgotten. he loves pat with nuanced certainty, previously uncertain, now set ablaze and never faltering. he loves pat with the almost-shy hand-holding, the dimpled smile, the dorkiest laugh, dumbass uttered so fondly, so in love. pran fills the void in pat, pushes him to the edge, and assures him. pran is the best person to love pat.

they love each other in tandem, ardent caresses. pinkies intertwined underneath a shared blanket, the night air tranquil around them, warm, home, their safe space. like paintings on the wall, some angled shapes and abstract strokes- pat and pran. they love each other in those heated bickering sessions, i told you to shower before sitting on the couch! you can't make me! and all those mellowed punches on the stomach and pinches on the cheeks. they love each other in those surprising kisses, hands entwined, rooftop dates, blasting the cheesiest love songs in pat's car. like toast and condensed milk, earphones and friend/unfriend t-shirt, the guitar and the drums; inseparable, destined, always meant to be.

pran wonders- how the hell did he fall in love with this dumbass. pat questions- how the hell he didn't realize his feelings for this jackass sooner.

and they love each other in the way only they know- the pat and pran way.

[cubedmango]

[v hastily magic of zeros ur patpran]

The first sensation Pat registers is pure pain. Pain in his head, in his eyes, in his back—pain pretty much everywhere he could name. The only place that doesn’t seem to hurt is a warm spot on right forearm, but other than that, it kind of feels like absolute hell in his body right now.

With excruciating effort, he manages to at least slowly blink open his eyes, only to find himself staring at a bright, cloud-dotted blue sky, and vaguely familiar faces in vaguely familiar clothes hovering over him. Before he can question any of that, something else comes into view that makes him forget everything else, as it always has.

It’s Pran. Messy-haired, sun-haloed Pran, right above him like some kind of an angel, looking at him wide-eyed in concern. That expression is one Pat doesn’t see from him too often, but he doesn’t care to examine the reason he’s showing it right now. It’s Pran in front of him! Pran!

“Hi,” Pat says, feeling a goofy grin creep over his face at his boyfriend’s presence. Everything’s perfect now. What was he complaining about, earlier? Nothing hurts anymore. Nothing at all.

“Shit, Pat,” Pran mutters, checking his body over with one hand. It’s then Pat has a belated realization that the warmth at his arm must’ve been Pran. That’s why it felt nice. “Are you okay? Does it hurt?”

“I’m fine,” he replies, with all the charm he can muster up, which is hopefully enough, “now that I’ve seen your face.”

For a long time, Pran just blinks at that response, and Pat wonders if he should’ve waited to come up with a better line. Really? No cute dimpled smile? Not even an eyeroll? Maybe he’s gotten rusty ever since they went long-distance. Maybe he just needs some practice again. Maybe he’s going to Ink for tips after this.

Instead of Pat, Pran turns to talk to someone behind him that Pat can’t quite see. “I think he hit his head bad, coach. Should I take him to the infirmary?”

You can take me anywhere you want, Pat almost says, before Pran’s words actually reach his slow-functioning brain as some pairs of hands help him stand up, and he finally, finally sees the full sight around him.

Coach? Pat repeats to himself, looking up only to see his old football coach, the one from high school he used to get in plenty trouble with, saying something back to Pran. Infirmary? He glances away, just to find himself being on the school’s football field, with the buildings not too far away, standing exactly as he remembered them. Then he looks up at the crowd gathered nearby, of guys in uniforms that Pat hasn’t thought about in a while. It’s not just them, either. Pran’s wearing the exact same thing.

Pat looks down at himself. Apparently, so is he.

“Hey, Pat,” Pran says again, and the worry on his face is starting to make a little bit more sense now. Pat doesn’t miss the way Pran begins to drag him off by the wrist, not the hand. “Come on. I’ll walk you to the infirmary.”

A lot of things hit Pat at once while they walk, as the fog over his head begins to dissipate. He was supposed to be on-field right now, taking care of a project his dad had dumped on him last-minute. Pran had refused to talk to him all morning because of what happened last night, which is why Pat had even accepted the dumb work in the first place. By all logic, he should currently be at work. Certainly not back at the high school he hadn’t visited in ages, in a uniform he hasn’t worn in ages, looking at faces he hasn’t seen in ages, and certainly not with Pran.

That’s when he remembers Pa mentioning something like this to him once, after she got back from her trip with Ink to Japan. A weird dream while she was passed out, or something, of her getting thrown back into the past to the day her girlfriend fell for her. Cute, if slightly concerning with it being caused by a very minor head injury, but she’d been fine after that, so it was alright.

Pat had only laughed at her unconscious brain’s creativity, back then, but the memory of it now makes him shudder. Hold on, could it be…?

“Pat?” Pran asks, taking him out of his head, but it just makes things worse. Now that he really notices, Pran looks exactly as he did at sixteen, and Pat knows this with the certainty of someone who’d once spent a lot of time looking at pictures of him from tenth grade. So, if they’re talking about the time they fell for each other, then…

“Uh, hey,” Pat starts, and prays he doesn’t sound like he needs actual medical intervention because of what he asks next, “What year is it?”

Pran makes a face like he’s out of his mind—in a mostly-troubled way—before muttering, “Did the ball really hit you that hard?”

That’s not a good sign in the slightest, but now Pat has to know. “Just tell me, once!”

The other sighs, probably about to ask if he’s fine again, before seeing whatever desperate expression’s on Pat’s face and deciding against it. “It’s 2014. There, happy?”

Pat stops right in his tracks, his shoes screeching loudly against the linoleum floor, and all he can do in that moment is stare blankly at Pran.

…Wait, what?

[faillen]

I love everything you write with all of my heart, so I'll offer some prompts from the list but really you can choose anything you want and I'll be just as happy 😁

These are the particular ones sticking out to me:

“what is it that you don’t get? i’m not attracted to [this person]!” cut to scene of the person in question staring longing at the object of their desire

- i was thinking like either like flashbacks from pat once he's realized his feelings as he's realizing like oh that's what I was feeling all along, or like after the music shop oh moment where he's piecing it together, maybe ink or pa points out that he's been distracted recently, he's been staring at pran a lot, that kind of thing

being pushed to the ground/wall with your hands pinned down

- 👀

going to sleep in different beds but sneaking into the other's to snuggle

-im imagining them sneaking into each other's rooms for this one

Pran stares up at the sliver of light on the ceiling, and then tips his chin down to look at his cracked open window, the curtains shifting slightly with the breeze. A glance at his clock has him huffing and finally pushing himself off his bed.

Climbing out of the window is an affair made easier by how many times Pran has seen Pat do it, the knowledge ensuring that he lifts his back leg high to clear the window frame. It makes his hamstring twinge a bit, and he files the information away as another position in which to test Pat's (currently) untested flexibility.

(Pran has plans for tomorrow night.)

He makes it out of his room and across to Pat's side of the roof with minimal stumbling, and vaults over the balcony railing to stand in front of the double doors to Pat's room.

Pushing against the frame lightly, Pran tests whether or not it's locked, and the door nudges open easily. Across the room, the rush of air into the room has Pat unconsciously shifting to curl more tightly into himself.

Pran turns and closes the door behind himself before slowly stepping over towards the bed. The lack of soft, snuffling snores mean that Pat isn't deeply asleep, but his breathes are even and gentle.

He's sleeping on the left side of the bed, which means Pran has to clamber over him to settle next to him—usually he prefers sleeping closer to the door, while Pat claims no preference, but one night isn't going to hurt. It's a bit of a balancing act to get over to the other half of the bed without accidentally kneeing Pat, but he accomplishes it.

The same cannot be said for successfully not waking Pat up. His boyfriend hums, drowsy and questioning, turning over towards the mattress dipping. Pran shushes him softly, relieved when Pat's eyes don't crack open as well.

"Just me," he murmurs, leaning over to brush a kiss over Pat's brow before settling down. Pat tucks into his side almost immediately with a satisfied puff of air, and Pran reaches down, pressing his fingers into the back of Pat's thigh and encouraging him to drape his leg over.

The weight of Pat atop him finally, finally, smothers the restlessness that has been plaguing Pran the entire night. Just one night back with Pat next to him in bed had been enough for his body to refuse the idea of falling asleep with Pat mere yards away.

If he only has these three nights to soak up enough to last him the three hundred in a place that still doesn't feel like home, Pran damn well wasn't going to spend one of them alone.

He curls his arm around Pat's waist, absently brushing his thumb up and down Pat's spine, and looks up at the ceiling once again, at the way the light slants differently across it. He turns his head and tucks his nose into Pat's hair, breathing deeply.

With the space beside him filled once again, Pran let his eyes drift shut.

[captainstarkky]

Bad Buddy Series Episode 5 RECAP and a Quick Episode Breakdown

It’s getting harder for our architecture class leader to hide his feelings for our engineering prince, and sooner he realizes the depth of what he thought to be just a simple crush. It’s one complicated feat, but thankfully a big event is coming giving him the chance to sort his feelings. As the musical competition approaching, and feelings boiling, can they finally understand what their heart speaks and find their way to one another – or will it just end in an another tragic fight?

Episode 5 Recap and Quick Episode Breakdown

We open the episode in the morning after Pat slept over in Pran’s dorm room. After the heavy scene that happened the night before, it’s even a surprise that Pat was able to sleep properly – even sleeping in, only waking up when Pran was about to go to class.

Smelling a familiar scent of gas, Pat woke from his deep, comfy sleep as he jumped out of the bed, hurriedly running out of the room while screaming that a fire allegedly broke out. Only to find Pran in the kitchen counter, preparing for his (Pran’s) breakfast – a sandwich and sausage.

Pran sarcastically told Pat that it’s probably in his room (Pat’s room). Pat scoffed, walking to the opposite side of the counter, leaning in, telling Pran that if there was a fire on the next room, his room would be the next one burning. Pran just replied with a shrug before going back to what he was doing.

Pat watched as Pran prepared his meal neatly, then to his toasted bread on the counter. He extended his hand over, attempting to grab the other piece only to be slapped by Pran. Pran tells him it wasn’t for him. Pat frowned, asking Pran where his share was and once again tried to snatch the sandwich away. For the second time, Pran slapped his hand away, asking him the reason why he should make something for him when he’s not his wife (something like a boyfriend). Pat raised his brow, telling Pran that he isn’t his wife. Pran just paused before telling Pat that if he wanted one, he should just make himself one.

Pat acted like he was convinced and pretended to rummage through Pran’s bread Tupperware; and when Pran turned to get something from the sink-side, the feisty Pat picked the sandwich altogether, eating it before Pran’s eyes.

Pran, pouting over his sandwich, picked his sausage with a fork, chewing on it as he stares at Pat who even had the audacity to tease him while eating.

Pran just smiled while he watches Pat’s bulging cheeks from the sandwich he devoured in only a few bites. Food wasn’t a big deal with Pran; he was in a hurry anyway. He checked his wristwatch before asking Pat if he was done eating; Pat nodding. Pran nodded back promptly asking him to go back.

Pat, in a soft voice and a warm smile, asked Pran if he could reconsider. He said that he still need to call Pa for the spare key. Pran, intending not to lose again because of Pat’s cute smiles, smiles. Knocking for Pran’s merciful heart, Pat pouted, still smiling, then asks Pran he would be too kind to let him stay in his room. The room owner pouted back, jerking his head to the side, immediately telling Pat to move out. Pat was stubborn enough to hold this exchange for awhile. Until Pat resorted to using his charms on Pran; with a cute, high voice, he began “begging” – if that was him begging – Pran to let him stay while Pran was telling him to move out.

Unsure of what could happen; Pat decided to seal the deal. He put both of his palms over his face, tilting his head to the side while smiling. His eyes squinted and his lip curls visible all over his face. This proved very effective to the headstrong Pran as he chuckles, and then he asked Pat who told him think it made him cute. Pat laughs, telling Pran that it was him, before asking if it worked. Pran avoided his gaze, turning away shrugging. The room owner ended up letting Pat stay on the condition that he’d clean up and not touch anything.

Pat told him he’d comply, calling him Mr. Dimples (Mr. Dimples and Mr. Dumplings, huh? Cute)

Before leaving, Pran, once again reminds him to be a good boy and wash the dishes, if not he’d barge in his room and scold him.

 Now having the whole room to himself, Pat immediately did his assignment. One after another, he scanned through Pran’s well-arranged stuff, flipping open the pages of his drawing book – discovering some interesting stuff, he lingered and read. He smiles as he saw Pran’s cute doodles and drawings; he also saw some lame flirting techniques Pran picked up somewhere (lowkey from him). It was all fun and games until his phone rang.

Without even checking the caller, Pat answered the phone. Pran’s voice echoed from the receiver. Seeing well arranged color pens in front of him, he touched them to clear his conscience even a bit. He was trying to be convincing but it instead sparked suspicion from the other person on the line. Good thing Pran isn’t in the mood for scolding Pat, instead he needed his help. He told the room invader that his song for the music festival was on his computer and he needed it urgently. Pat listened and agreed to help. Pran told him that there’s a USB flash drive on the table and to copy the whole folder inside the flash drive. Pat immediately faced the computer in front of him and opened it; unfortunately it asked for a password. He told the guy on the line what the password was. Pran nonchalantly answered, realizing what his password was too late.

//According to Pat, Pran’s password has something to do with a band in Thailand called So Cool band. It’s also noteworthy that Pran’s surname is actually Parakul so doesn’t that rhyme? Okay, I’m sorry. I’m an idiot sandwich//

After teasing Pran because of his password, Pat opens the computer and copies the files as ordered by his Master Parakul; but before even closing it and leaving, Pat looked over Pran’s photos. There was a folder exclusively full of his high school photos; somehow, seeing how Pran still cherishes his high school memories with him drew a smile on his face.

Pran told Pat to go straight to the back of the faculty and to be careful; but he knew better. In the longest time he knew Pat, never in his life did he have the term ‘being careful’ in his vocabulary. If they weren’t careful and his friends spot Pat walking in the Architecture corridors, it would be a big problem. And he isn’t taking chances.

Instead of waiting, Pran stood in one of the corners leading to the back of the building, periodically checking if Pat was already there. And he wasn’t wrong; hold and behold, there is the guy he was waiting for, walking as if he owned the place, without a hint of being careful or whatever. Pran, who was waiting for Pat, immediately pulled the nonchalant engineering class leader to the side, putting him into a headlock.

All the while Pran’s friends followed.

Good thing Pran was quick enough to assess the situation, if not; it could’ve ended with a fight.

Pran dragged Pat to the back of the faculty building. Pat pretended to be hurt but when Pran released him from the headlock; he turned to Pran and joked around. Although he knew that it would just pass by his ears, Pran still scolded Pat for his nonchalant behaviour. Then Pran looked at his outfit, asking why he was still wearing his shirt. Pat furrowed his brows telling Pran that there was absolutely nothing wrong with re-wearing clothes, saying he likes his scent anyway so he doesn’t mind. Pran found it disgusting, knowing that the shirt hasn’t been washed and he even wore it while sleeping the night before. Pat frowned, telling him that it doesn’t smell bad at all, as a matter of fact, the shirt still has the same smell, even to the point of leaning in to smell Pran himself to compare.

And round four began. I mean, they’re fighting over the most nonsense things in the world. Why am I even surprised by now?

Pat only stopped when Ink came into picture. It was unknown how’d she get there or how’d she knew that Pat and Pran were in the back of the faculty building, but she just POOFED herself in the frame, as if it was the most natural place she’d be in this scene. (LOL) She suspiciously glanced at the two guys who immediately broke away from one another the second she arrived. Smiling, she told them if they forgot that they weren’t supposed to know each other at school. Pran, all rattled – probably over the topic he had with Pat the night before -, pushed all the responsibility to Pat saying that he was busy with his rehearsals before storming off. Ink called him dodgy before turning to Pat, grilling him over what happened – pointing about how lovey dovey they were acting. Pat denies, immediately changing the topic as to why she was there in the first place. Ink persistently asked Pat about what happened, not really giving a damn about Pat changing the topic.

Both of them stopped arguing when Pran came back, extending his hand to Pat asking for the drive. Ink was all smiles to Pran while Pat hands over what he needs. Speechless, he points at Pat and utters a few words before storming out.

But before he go, he gave the two – who was still lowkey flirting with one another - last glance, before finally walking off.

 Later that night, Pat invited Ink for dinner in the same place where he had dinner with Pran. He ordered food and when he asked Ink for her orders, Ink said she’d take an egg noodle with three wontons – weirdly similar to someone he knew. Pat laughed with the thought.

Because of the random reaction, Ink asked Pat why was he laughing by himself. Pat turned back to Ink and told her that her order made him think of someone and that he thought that no one else would order the same menu; sparking Ink’s curiosity. And when she tried to ask further, Pat just told her that he’s not telling who it was and just went with the orders. (Hint: The guy’s name starts with the letter P and ends with a letter N. He lives next door)

//The Sofia the First sticker on the stall. Old man is on the right fandom//

//And seriously?! Pat did not change for the whole day, does he like Pran’s scent that much? Or ... //

Pat turned back to the old man on the store, and he asks Pat if she was his girlfriend. Pat chuckles telling him that she’s not yet. Emphasizing the words ‘not yet’. Then he goes to where Ink was.

Surprisingly, Pat’s quite well-mannered when he’s with other people. Ink pointed this out when Pat used his spoon to scoop out from his bowl rather than picking the bowl from the table – like what he did when he’s with Pran. Pat pointed out that when boys turn to men, they’d develop things they never ha – for Pat, it’s manners apparently. Ink grinned saying that he’s too overly conscious with his appearance to Pat’s disagreement. Instead, he just told her that he doesn’t need to be conscious because he’s already good-looking and all.

Based on how the mood was going, it was actually getting there. Everything was good and the atmosphere was nice, but Pat just has to ruin it by bragging about how handsome he is (just like he always does).

//Does he realize that it’s always a red flag or ... is he just faking to not know?//

In a rather sarcastic note, Ink told him that he was cool. Pat, who was bragging about it a few seconds ago, got awestruck, unable to speak. But she immediately shot him down, telling him that he was hot ... but he was hotter when he was in high school.

Remember when I said that Pat’s an idiot at relationships? Yeah, he is. So when Pa saw him smiling like an idiot over the bracelet on his wrist, she immediately knew what was happening. Pat already told her about what happened during his dinner and it just added to Pa’s headache.

The fact that when it comes to relationships, Pat’s not the sharpest tool in the shed was not a secret to Pa. In fact, she’d been telling him that even if he’s mostly good at academics and other things (like repairing a printer for example, duh.) it doesn’t change the fact that when it comes to relationships, he’s never stable. So as if it was the most normal thing in the world, Pa just went and cut her brother’s daydreaming feat by telling him that a compliment is different from having feelings. Pat insisted that he isn’t just imagining things, and that he sensed that she really had something. Pa just rolled her eyes at his brother, telling him that the last time he followed through his so-called senses; he ended up buying something expensive for the girl who just left him after. Pat sighs, asking his sister if he was really his sister. Pa replied that she’s only doing what a sister should be doing.

Pat, not wanting any of his sister’s nagging, cut the chase short and asked what he should do instead. Even if he’s too full of himself, Pat is at least cognizant on how bad he is at choosing partners – bad enough that he needed Pa’s advice for this matter.

Left without a choice, Pa sighs and started folding her brother’s laundry. He raised his head at Pat who was obviously waiting for her to say something. Pa started with a disclaimer, telling Pat that she will never agree with him dating a friend. It was against Pa’s own morals and she’s definitely not okay with it, to Pat’s disappointment. But Pa tells him that she is willing to make an exception, only if it was Ink and that she is willing at least offer help.

Pat being indeed slow at things that has something to do with relationships raised his brows asking what Pa meant. Pa replied that she likes Ink and thought that Ink would be a good match with Pat (if ever). But Pa was mindful enough to remind him that before he makes a fool out of himself, he needs to be sure that the feeling was mutual first. Pat smiles, asking how he would know if that was the case. Pa swallowing all the spites he could throw at her brother before smiling, pointing out how Pat was so intelligent at everything except love.

Pat annoyed with Pa’s subtle insults asked again: ‘how would he know that it’s the case’. Pa replies by slamming the table, spelling it out to him that he should take her to a date.

In the end, both of them sealed the deal and decided that Pat would take Ink out and that Pa would check if Ink feels the same way as Pat or not.

 In terms of determining feelings, Pa was confident of herself. But it seemed like she’s motivated with something else – whether it was to be nosy to his brother’s love life, or to be overprotective to his overly-gullible brother that we don’t know. But she seemed too gunho over this affair to the point of sharing some important outputs to Pat.

According to Pa, the love guru, there are signs that someone has feelings to someone. She said that even a simple flinch or a subtle reaction could say something.

1)  Physical touch always elicits a response.

2)  Stare at her eyes and if there’s a response... that’s it.

3)  The person who likes you will always be interested whether you’re taken or not.

Pa told Pat that he just need to invite Ink to a date and to leave things to her.

As instructed, Pat invited Ink over the weekend and intended Pa to see whether she had feelings for Pat or not. But even with everything they did, they literally got nothing from the date. In Pa’s eyes, it was clear as day that Ink isn’t interested in being involved with Pat romantically. And even for someone as gullible as Pat, it was so clear that it almost blinded his eyes.

Thankfully, with a call, Pat was able to excuse himself from the girls, saving not only his face but also his ego from being destroyed by the unknowing Ink. When he announced it to everyone, Pa immediately pulled his shirt telling him to just get it delivered via courier. Pat sighs and insisted to get it himself. Pa was spazzing over Pat leaving her with Ink alone. But she didn’t have a choice as she sees his brother walking out with his drink from the store.

//This is just conjecture but I think, Pa was friends with Ink, but they way they became friends was through his brother – Pat. They only meet because of Pat and they have never met solo. So she was kind of taken aback with the flow of events. //

 Pat went to pick up his drum sticks for the music contest from the music shop him and Pran visited. That is what the call is all about. And since he wanted to check the goods himself (like a real musician) he went for it in person. He was ushered in by the clerk, telling him that he’d check for his drum sticks and if he could wait for a few minutes. Pat smiles, nodding.

While waiting for the clerk to come back, since he was already inside the shop anyway, he roamed around looking at the different instruments that were on display. Pat was a member of a band before so it was natural that he’s interested in any musical instruments – though he mainly plays for drums. And come to think of it ... Pat stares at the acoustic guitars from the side, there was someone else who was as interested in musical instruments as him.

Pat smiles, holding out a hand to the guitar, but when he was about to, instead of holding the neck of the guitar, he held on someone’s hand instead. He turned to look, and saw that it was Pran standing beside him also holding onto the guitar. Realizing that he was holding the Pran’s hand, he quickly retracted his, while averting his eyes off Pran. Pat asked Pran what was he doing in the music store; Pran replying that he isn’t the only person who’s allowed to stroll around. Once again, the ever feisty Pat was silenced by a single remark from Pran as he found himself looking away from Pran’s face.

Weird enough, Pat wasn’t able to answer any of Pran’s remarks. In normal days, it would’ve been easier to tease the ever-annoyed Pran to have fun. It isn’t just about Pat not being on top of his game, it was about him not able to counter Pran whom he has been openly shooting tirades to for his whole life.

Before they even knew it, the store owner came back with his drum sticks; the clerk tells him to check on the sticks, but instead of checking on the condition of the stick, Pat instead turned to Pran. He stared at Pran’s face while the other guy was merrily checking some guitars out. Pran looked so happy as he strum some strings, and this got Pat’s attention. Pat knew that Pran loved guitars so much but the smile he was wearing attracted him that he went and clicked the bait – turning away when Pran turned to his direction though.

//Like check the drum sticks, not the guy who’s checking the guitar.//

Pat stood there, even with his goods already on hand as Pan receives a call. Pran takes the call and merrily answered through, ending the conversation after a few replies. Pat asks Pran if it was someone special, Pran just scoffs at him, telling Pat to mind his business.

Pat sighs, immersed in his deep thoughts, as he reminds himself of what Pa told him about the signs to look for to see as to whether someone is interested in you. And before he knows it, he finds himself re-evaluating his actions when he was with Pran while comparing it to when he was with Ink. Instead of being the person to see through, Pat felt like he was unconsciously the one being judged. By no other than himself. And by the looks of it, he’s acing the checklist so far. It looked like he’s the one interested with Pran, and not just interested ... Pat raised his brow, feeling it himself, he doesn’t have a choice but to believe it. But all in all, he still feel like it’s weird. So after strong, deep, and profound thinking of what was happening, he arrived at one conclusive answer – to flee.

I don’t know if the place was just too small but they kept on blocking each other’s way instead. Pat felt flustered and when Pran asked if he was playing around ... the last sign that Pa told him to look out for literally waved flags on his head.

4)  People who like you can’t be themselves around you.

Pat, fully confused now, decided to force his escape through. Asking the shop owner that he’d transfer the money instead, he radically escaped the scene.

It dawned to Pat that instead of gauging Ink’s feelings for him, it seemed like his true feelings for another person was gauged out instead. It made him rethink things through – including on how he is in front of Pran before and even how is it to like someone.

 Later that day, Pran was in his room, taking snacks. He reached for the thing on his cabinet only to find it empty, with a post-it note attached to it. He smiles, eating his bread without it instead.

He brought the empty bottle out and sat on the table. With his drawing book, Pran began drawing the bottle, copying it as it is while including the post-it that hanged through it. He smiles and takes a pause, recalling the scene that he saw in the mall.

As preparation for the upcoming music contest, Pran, just like the guy next door, needed to prepare. Pran decided to go all out himself with the festival to the point of even writing a song just for the event. He promised that he’d go all out on his first and last comeback in the stage after all. Another thing is that, if he didn’t take this seriously, the overly-gunho Pat would take it against him.

So as a way to kill time, Pran decided to visit the music place where Pat dragged him to. On his way, he passed by a pastry shop and saw two familiar figures inside. Curious, he paused and tried to look closer and as he did, he let out a sigh. He was right. The people inside were indeed familiar because they really were his friends. They were Pat and Ink; Pat was taking photos of Ink and they seem to be enjoying themselves. Pran sighs, deciding to just go his way.

He crashed out the doodle he had and just devoured the sandwich he was holding in one go.

 The surprising turn of events seemed to have confused Pat on levels he didn’t know he could be in.

Pat decided to ask Korn (which I think was the wrong-est person to ask tbh). At first, Korn joked around saying that the only thing that can make the heart beat fast should be ghosts. This made Pat sigh; so deep that Korn decided to be serious for once. He tells Pat that aside from ghosts, the hearts beat faster if we’re together with the one we are infatuated with (someone we like). Pat turned to Korn and tells him that it could also be possible that it’s only because the person is excited. Korn nodded. He tells him that if it’s just the heartbeat then you probably couldn’t see the difference. But he said that there’s something that is certain: if you feel jealous for that person, then you really like the person.

Out of everything Korn told him, the last one left a big impression to Pat – since, he at least know what jealousy is.

//HMMMM. Kind of insightful at least//

Pat decided to test it out.

Later that day, Pat went to visit Pran after his classes. Unsure if Pran was in, he knocked and called him out nicely. The person he was looking for was inside writing his song. Pran marched out, opening the door for Pat. He asked Pat what he wanted. Normally, Pat is impulsive; he’d just barge in like it was his room once the door is opened. But instead of doing what he usually does, Pat asks if he could come in, confusing Pran to a whole new galaxy. He tells Pat that he’s already barged in more than a couple of times.

The engineering class leader stammered about his earphones which confused Pran. Whatever Pat was doing was out of the ordinary and Pran couldn’t understand it either; but nevertheless, he chose to abandon his doubts and just focused on the earphones. However, he was too preoccupied with his own busy schedule that he forgot where he left it inside the apartment. He just told Pat that he’d look for his earphones and return it later. Pat smiles telling him that he shouldn’t sweat it out because he can look for it himself, nonchalantly waltzing inside.

Pran thought Pat was being weird and wasn’t acting like himself; but when he smoothly talked himself out to enter his room, he dismissed it as him seeing angels. He followed Pat who just waltzed inside his room, dumping his bag on his couch. Pat just asked Pran if he already had his meal while making his way to his working table. The room owner told him that he already did, going back to his work. Pat who was still creeping to his study area, kept his questions coming, asking what he was doing. Pran replied that he’s writing a song.

Pat had his eye on his aim and went he did. He traced his finger to the room owner’s study table, picking his earphones up. The real reason why he was there was to test Korn’s absurd hypothesis – if i can even be called a scientific guess – but even if without Korn’s theory, he’d probably find his way to Pran’s anyway. But since he’s together Pran now, he should be able to have an experiment. Last time he was in Pran’s room, he saw some pictures hanging on his wall – not to mention the things all over. Speaking pictures, there were also pictures of Pran with girls, probably from the school where he transferred; if what Korn said is true then it would only be normal to get jealous when he’s with girls, right? – is what the great Napat thought. So there he was, like a rat, eyeing out photos after photos. But in the end, he felt nothing. His heart wasn’t even beating that fast.

He was cut off by a loud ringing from Pran’s phone. With a quick glance, Pran turned to Pat telling him that it was Wai calling and he should keep it down, without waiting for Pat’s response, Pran just went and answered Wai’s call right there and then.

As Pat listens to Pran and Wai’s conversation, he immediately felt his blood boil. He was compelled to cut their conversation off and just keep the boy inside his pocket. But with Pran’s stares, he knew he couldn’t do it; and he doesn’t have a choice but to just listen as Pran updates his friend about what he was doing – just like a boyfriend would do.

The thought of Pran going to be with another man sparked an unbearable feeling of pain and annoyance boiled down from his gut. He slammed his earphone on the divider he was leaning on. Pran glared at him, immediately putting his finger over his lip. Pat, being a good boy, complied but still lingered either way. He looked like a kid who was pouting all the way because his mom met a friend on the way and they were delayed.

The moment Pran ended the call; he turned to Pat before going back to what he was doing before. Pat sarcastically remarked how close Pran and Wai are; Pran turned back to Pat before telling him that they are. Pat then asked if he was coming over, Pran nodded. He pointed out that his mom doesn’t let anyone in their house. Pran shook his head, saying that his mom loves Wai because he compliments everything his mom makes. (And to be honest, rather than not wanting anyone in the house, I think he meant, not wanting anyone with the name Napat though).

This made sense for Pat. I mean, anyone would love people who compliments what you do. And because he never had the chance before, he didn’t know. So Pat once again turned to his Master Parakul finally asking what he’s kind of proud of, as to whether Wai had slept over his dorm room before. With Pran’s personality, it would be heaven and earth just to convince him to allow someone to sleep over. And as expected ... Pran shook his head, saying that he has not.

Pat got the affirmation he needed to calm down. He had been on edge since Wai called and for some reasons he has been feeling uneasy. But somehow, a word from Pran swished it all away. That was all he needed.

But then in a sudden turn of events, Pran remembered something. It turned out that Wai already did. And to top it off, he slept on the same place and Pat slept in. Pat paused and in a rather elevated voice, he asked Pran the reason why he didn’t tell him. The ever-eternally confused Pran asked him if something’s to matter. Instead of replying, Pat just slammed his earphones on the table once more and stormed out of the room. Pran called him and told Pat that he was being weird. Pat just went straight for the door.

 Pat may be an idiot but he’s not someone who doesn’t have feelings. Everything is new for him that he got so confused. The things that he thought were just nothing turned out to be something, and the things that he thought were something turned out to be ... he doesn’t know. It might be just because of Pa’s psychological suggestion but that’s what’s making everything a mystery.

After visiting Pran’s room, he just can’t stop thinking about things. There are a lot of things that he doesn’t understand – especially about his relationship with Pran.

In a short flashback, it has been revealed that their relationship isn’t as bad as they are trying to paint it to be. At the very least, they’re close friends. Pran and Pat are bandmates, Pran being the guitarist and vocals, and Pat, his drummer. Aside from that, they’re close enough to write their own songs together, sharing ideas and insights. It’s safe to say that they’re only enemies up front.

That is probably the reason why Pat had always been comfortable with Pat. Even if they were in each other’s throats, they can’t fight each other to death. And most importantly, he can be himself with Pran without restricting himself. That was because he thought what he felt for Pran was genuine friendship.

Pat had been in his thoughts when Pa came inside his room, bringing food. Somehow, seeing her brother all depressed after what happened made her feel sorry for Pat. He might’ve really liked Ink, unfortunately, Ink’s actions and reactions didn’t give way. In her eyes, no matter how much her brother likes Ink if she doesn’t like him back then it would be better if Pat would stop pursuing further.

But then, Pa found it weird. His impulsive brother wouldn’t just give in just because of some signs his younger sister spouted. If it was Pat, given his exuding self-confidence, he’d look for other ways to flirt – but so far he isn’t doing any of that. Rather he stayed in his place feeling sad – or rather confused. This raised questions ... that maybe Pat’s behaviour wasn’t because he was heartbroken... that maybe it was because Pat liked someone else instead (?)

 As expected from a university music festival (I honestly forgot what it’s called), everyone was riled up and are excited of what would happen. With the participation of the hot bands from each faculty, students and teachers alike couldn’t just sit still. Everyone came out just to see who would win.

The engineering’s representative came in first, after their performance, loud cheers erupted from the audience. Pat, spotting Ink in the audience immediately ran to where she was, asking how was the performance. Ink smiled saying it was enough to make everyone scream their lungs out. As self-conceited as Pat can be, he asked her if she was screaming for her too. Ink just shrugged before turning back to the stage. Pat followed Ink’s lead and saw that the architecture’s representative was already on the stage.

Pat looked straight at the person who was standing before the microphone with a guitar hanging from his shoulders. It was Pran. He briefly introduced his band and their song. Instead of playing the new song that he had been writing, Pran chose to play the song that Pat co-wrote. It was also the same song that they played in high school. Even Ink recognized it.

It was a song about two people who are born for each other; they grew up together, ended up seeing each other every other day. Nothing started from the beginning but without realizing it, their feelings changed. They became people who cannot be enemies but can’t be friends either.

After the performance, it dawned to Pat, the thing that he had been looking for. The jealousy for Pran. And he stormed off from the scene.

Ink saw Pat from the second floor, looking down at the team with the most colourful outfits (I constantly need to remind myself that they major architecture and not fashion design, coz why the raincoats?). She called him and asked if he was alright. Pat stared at Ink’s eyes before nervously answering her. But before he could even finish his sentence, Ink cut him off asking what was wrong. He sounded like he was going to confess or something. She was not wrong. Because of Pat’s inner turmoil, he wanted to let something out. He was so bothered of Pran’s song that he cannot get it off his mind. Pat looked at Ink and confessed his feelings. He told her he liked her since high school and never got the chance to confess because they were friends. Instead of giving him a straight answer, Ink just smiles. She asked Pat what happened to that fear he had. Pat answered that it was probably because he had grown up, and then followed by a series of ambiguous sighs.

Normally, when a person is confessed by someone, the initial reaction should be: anxiety and pressure. Anxiety because you need to give a reply and pressure because someone is waiting for that reply. But that wasn’t the case for Ink. Because from the first time she heard Pat confess, she knew that it was not sincere – at least now. I don’t know if it would be the case if he confessed when they were in high school though (I don’t have data to prove.) For Ink, even the sighs Pat made after his confession meant something entirely. Instead of looming anxiety, he seemed to have sighed because he was relieved – as if something was taken off his chest.

Actually Pat isn’t that hard to read. Not talking because I’m a viewer and can see the whole story three-hundred sixty degrees. I can say because people with Pat’s personality oftentimes leave their guards down all the time. By leaving your guards down, you don’t have a choice but to be transparent. Transparent people oftentimes show their emotions and feelings without much censorship – what they do is what they mean.

Pat probably realized this himself. At first he really just wanted to confess to ink and with luck make her his girlfriend – normal guy stuff. He trusted his instinct and just went along with it. But everything changed when Pran came into picture. For Pat, Pran is an indispensable existence. He was someone he doesn’t mind if he feels jealous off. And although Ink doesn’t know it’s Pran (or she’s already thinking of that household name) she absolutely saw through Pat. (It was really obvious especially the heaviness of his stares)

Pat realized the facts and apologized to Ink for treating her as his emotional trashcan. But Ink just smiled. She leaned to Pat and told him that even if it was a real confession, she would’ve the same answer. (I told you, Ink likes girls lol). After feeling better (let’s just say) he turned back to the backstage on the first level, eyeing the band with the most colourful attire, frowning. Pat asked Ink if there was something she didn’t know. Ink sighs, putting her arm on his shoulders, telling him that the only thing she doesn’t know is what was running on his mind at the moment (which was, I guess, Pran lol. And gurl was lying, she probably knew that too).

After every performance, Pran’s band won. Not to spoil, but I think it’s quite obvious. I mean, we haven’t heard any of the other bands so they should be the one winning lol. Well, stupid remarks aside but this didn’t sit well with Pat. It was probably because of the heat of the competition or because of his innate will to win or because of his friends’ reactions or because of Pat’s personal reasons but nevertheless, Pran’s win did not sit well with Pat.

At a bar at the back of the university (I hope I’m not wrong), the two faculties met – one doing their victory party and the other was about to drink their loss.

By the two groups meeting, it was clear as day that it spelled nothing but trouble. The second Pat’s group stepped in and Wai spotted them in, the verbal banters immediately started. It was easy to say that Wai started it. However, before the fight even started, held his group up. But let’s be honest, if Pran wasn’t there, he wouldn’t even think twice in throwing a punch of two – given his already foul mood to begin with.

Pat obviously doesn’t want to make trouble for Pran. Seeing his worried face made him decide to cut the fight short before it even started.

Truth was, Pat just wants to talk with Pran and that’s probably it. He could’ve waited for him to go back to his place but weirdly he literally waited outside the apartment. So when he saw Pran coming home with Wai, he just exuded his intent. He asked Pran to come to him; causing the drunken Wai to go to his defences. Pran didn’t want to cause trouble – he didn’t want Wai to find out that he and Pat lived in the same condo and Wai, Pat and him was drunk and God knows what would happen, least he’s sure that Pat wouldn’t do anything to him, but what about Wai? He knew those so he decided to act. He came on to Pat, grabbed his collar and shouted things like he was starting a fight, but whispers for Pat to come back to his senses.

The gesture annoyed Pat. At first he was with Pran at keeping their living arrangement a secret, but seeing how Pran protects Wai to the point of hiding his relationship with him infuriated Pat. He was really holding back at Pran even if Pran was already going ballistic. There was a time where he snapped back at Pran; he grabbed Pran’s collar pulling him in whilst glaring at him. But what probably sealed the deal was when Wai came to him with a punch; Pat lost all reason to hold back and threw a punch back in return.

For the first time, Pat witnessed Pran, who was usually calm and collected, raise his voice for real. He asked Pat to stop and, again, for the first time, saw Pran go head-to-head with Wai. When Wai asked what was going on, Pran told him that nothing was going on and asked him to go.

After seeing Pran get angry, probably for the first time for a long time, Wai cooled down his head and backed down himself, nodding his head before going off. And without a word, Pran left Pat as he march back to his room.

 Later that night, Pat went to find Pran. He called him a few times, knocked on his door a few more times, then called him again another couple of times – but there’s no Pran. There were no traces. Losing places to check, he climbed up the rooftop and when he opened the door, there he was looking straight at the dark, silent sky.

Slowly, Pat approached Pran. He stood beside him, and when Pran noticed that he was there, he backed, attempting to walk away but before he could do that, Pat blocked his way.

The first thing Pat asked was why he played the song he sang during the contest. Pran just glanced away for a second before looking back straight to Pat’s eyes again, asking why. Pran added that he had the right to, he was the one who wrote it so it was his song. Pat replied that it was the song that they played together. Pran sarcastically smiled, asking if that little thing made him angry. In the bar, Pat accidentally insulted his song telling him that it was only a little song and there’s no need to be angry at being defeated, it left an impression to Pran. Pat painfully smiles asking if it was that insignificant for him which Pran retorts by asking him what happened to him. It was new for Pran. Pat was always carefree and was seldom emotional over things, the Pat in front of him was different.

Pat shook his head, telling Pran that he doesn’t like it, that he doesn’t like him playing the song they played – they wrote – together with other people. Pran sighs before asking Pat to stop acting like he has rights over him. He adds that they weren’t a thing, least friends to begin with.

Pat, with a bitter smile, replied that he was right. They couldn’t be friends, how could they when their parents hate one another. How can they be friends when all they did was live next to each other but can’t even strike a conversation. How can they be friends if all they did was compete with each other regarding everything.

While he was in high school, Pat felt the most relief when Pran left. There was no need for him to compete with anyone and he can finally be someone he wanted himself to be. But in a broken voice, he told Pran that despite all the things mentioned, he was ultimately lonely.

Pat then asks Pran what should they call their present thing now. Should they call themselves enemies or friends.

Pran, hearing Pat’s real feelings can’t help but allow himself to shed tears. He then asks him back if he wanted to be friends.

Pat just stares at his face, and as the same tears coursed through his cheek, he answered no, before walking forward, Pran doing the same. Without breaking eye contact, Pat went and leaned in kissing the now teary Pran. And just like that, both boys let their feelings out for the first time in their life, feeling relieved, Pat broke off from the quick kiss.

Pran, feeling like a chance like this won’t happen again, gambled on Pat’s game, pulling Pat’s nape back for another round, this time with him in the lead. Pran poured his all in the kiss – the feelings that he had kept for a very long time. Everything just came exploding the second their lips met. Throwing everything away – even his shame – he moved his hand to pull him even closer.

Feeling Pran’s passion, Pat returned Pran’s kisses, reaching his hand over his cheek to the back of his head while shifting positions.

It was what Pran wanted but he cannot stop crying. The growing anxiety inside him made him ask himself as to what could happen next – but even so, he cannot stop. The feeling of kissing the one you were longing for a very long time felt too good.

As they were breaking off from the intense encounter, Pat slowly broke off, smiling. The feeling of relief overcame Pat as he confirmed the feeling that he had been confused off for quite some time. He shouldn’t be liking how he kissed Pran like a woman, but he did. It only confirmed what he feels inside. He was finally convinced that he liked Pran, not as a friend but as someone special.

As they were breaking off from the intense encounter, it dawned to Pran what happened. He kissed Pat. He pulled him in and allowed him to kiss him while he responded with equal passion. He was happy that his longingness was finally answered, but then like a black ink in a white paint, it was overcame by the overwhelming feeling of guilt and fear. There were a lot of things he wanted to say to the smiling Pat in front of him, there were a lot of things he wanted to ask. But before he could even say another word, fear tugged through his sleeve. So he escaped.

Leaving the confused Pat alone in the rooftop, asking himself where did it go wrong.

MY THOUGHTS AND SOME INSIGHTS FROM THE BOOK

Okay! We’re almost halfway there. One more episode and we’re already half of all the available episodes. So far, the series had everyone on edge; as per ratings, I am proud to say that so far Bad Buddy The Series is one of the most anticipated BL series this December.

Episode 5 is the legit rollercoaster ride. It started fluff in the first part then slowly mellowed to a soft-core youth-coming of age in the middle, and then to a full-blown angst by the end. The whole ass episode literally made use of all my emotions at once – and I am not even complaining.

In terms of acting, I’m very well impressed with our leads so far. Nanon and Ohm had their own spotlight episodes so far. Episode 4 was Nanon’s highlight and I’m proud to say that this episode is Ohm’s. He was on his zone; he was in control and he knew what he was doing. As expected from a veteran actor in the BL scene.

Series and novel-wise, the series remained stand-alone. So far, episode 5, just like the previous episodes is a non-canon. Scenes were all changed from the novel, it remained interesting nevertheless – because if it weren’t, I wouldn’t be here doing this thing.

So let’s get to business now and properly break down the things I need to break down in this episode.

Ink; who is she and what does she know about Pat and Pran?

Ink’s character is very interesting. Her trailer was released on the ending credits of Episode 3 and she was formally introduced last episode. The second she came into scene, I’d roughly guess that most of the members of the current fandom was shaken. It’s not a secret to BL fans that an introduction of a woman interest in this genre could spell trouble (i.e., Fern (The Best Story), Aim (Love Sick The Series), Plern (Together with Me The Series), Amp (Tonhon Chonlatee)). But good thing that towards the end of Episode 4, Ink herself revealed that she isn’t interested in Pat, rebutting all previous theories about her.

In all honesty, from the first time Ink was introduced, I’ve never thought of her being in love with Pat. She doesn’t give me the same vibe as others and overall, she doesn’t look like someone who’d snatch a guy just because she likes it. When she was first introduced, she didn’t even get close to either of the leads, unlike other girls from other series. So, I’ve been making claims that she will never like Pat in a romantic sense ever since. Well, I wasn’t wrong because Pran asked her himself and she confirmed that she only saw Pat and Pran as her close friends, nothing more.

Half of Episode 5 revolves around Pat trying to flirt with Ink. Though it was already clear to us that Pat won’t succeed, it’s fun to see how Ohm plays the part (Oh come on, his Frame in Make it Right The Series a few years ago was focused mainly on him flirting with girls). However, instead of proving that Ink has feelings for him, he proved other things. Things that has something to do with Pran that is.

And going through the episode, it turned from Pat confessing to Ink to make her his girlfriend, to Pat confessing to Ink so he could free up space in his chest. Ink did not mind. She doesn’t like Pat after all, and she probably knew who Pat was after too.

Regarding that, it should be confusing how am I making claims that she knew Pat had been crushing on Pran. Well, it’s really easy to say.

From the time she had been introduced in the series, notice how she was always looking at Pat and Pran. Ink had been their friend and classmate during high school so she should’ve been able to strike similarities and differences between the two of them right away. My theory is that: Ink had always known that Pat had been crushing on her since high school but at the same time, she also knew that for Pat, Pran is an important existence. When he moved away, it had left a large, gaping hole on Pat. And when she saw them again three years later, that was when he realized that ... maybe Pat never really liked her but Pran. Ink really just have to put the pieces together.

And I even think that Ink somehow knew that Pran had been crushing on Pat ever since they were in high school. Though she only had her confirmation the episode before, when Pran asked her about Pat. That’s pretty much a give-away for Ink to jump into correct conclusions.

Actually, it’s really quite simple and it’s no surprise that Ink would get the gist of Pat and Pran’s relationship with the two of them literally giving away every hint a possible couple would do. I am more perplexed with the fact that Pat and Pran’s friends didn’t even notice.

But nevertheless, props to Ink that she actually saw through these boys’ facade, but then again, they were already sus to begin with.

Moreover, I think Ink is bisexual anyway. (this will be discussed in an entirely different episode so please wait for it)

 Pat; his feelings. Why is he trying so hard to make it complicated?

Our next key character for this episode is Pat. Before we even try to understand his feelings, it’s important to at least dissect him to basic parts.

Pat is the only son of a Chinese-descent family, he has a younger sister (3 years younger in the novel, and probably a year younger in the series). Being the eldest son, he’s been pressured all his life (probably to inherit what his dad started on) and not to mention to compete with the other family next door. Pat grew up with this mindset.

Actually, in the novel, Pat and Pran had been friends since they were kids. They were best buds who went everywhere together. But because of Pat’s parents influencing him, he soon started to bad-mouth Pran’s family and when the other kid cannot take it anymore, Pran threw a rock straight to Pat’s forehead. And that started their very first fight; and as they grew older, their fights just escalated to extremes.

In the series, it’s different. Pat and Pran started hating each other. Because they were raised to be the best at anything, they literally competed at everything. But as they grew older, the feelings of hatred instilled by their parents gradually faded and they became friends, scheming to please both of their parents and finally forming a band together. When Pran left, he was the most affected. Being the center of blame as to why the other guy left, he was left devastated.

All in all, Pat is just lonely. In the novel or in the series, he’s just lonely. No matter whom he is with, the feeling of happiness and satisfaction wouldn’t surmount to what he needed and in the end, he’s still left feeling alone. He knew that the hole Pran left couldn’t be filled with just anyone. Although it’s still unknown if he feels the same way, in the novel, he treated Pran as someone who could bring the best out of him, someone who would bring sunshine over his gloomy day.

Pat, in essence, is not a complicated person. He’s quite straight-cut, and that’s probably why he’s the think-do type of person. He gets along with everyone and is liked by so many people, but also because of his self-preserving attitude, people oftentimes misunderstand him leading to fights. This also makes him really transparent. Pat is just too easy to read. That’s why he’s also easy to fool.

In my own opinion, it’s really good that he is not a complicated person. But unfortunately, this had a lot of downsides. This made him quite slow in analyzing his own feelings; he jumps to conclusions and he believes what his mind tells him to believe. For example, he had always believed that what he felt for Pran could either be hate or friendship and nothing more. If they fight, then they could hate each other – and if they made up, then they’re friends. He has always believed that his reputation is the most important thing and nothing else and that is why he didn’t even get the hint – although in the novel, he’s quite the go-go kind of guy; he isn’t interested at girls, and if the girl wants, then he’s game. He’s all up for anything just for his own reputation. As Pa said, Pat is a handful when it comes to relationships. It’s probably because he takes everything face value to the point that when his girlfriend says ‘yes, I’m okay’, he probably takes it as is even if in reality, it’s not.

Now, why is he making everything complicated with Pran?

Well, simply because he doesn’t know. For Pran, everything Pat does have a meaning. Since he had been crushing Pat for long, as much as he’s good at hiding it, he’s as good as putting meanings at his every reactions.

But for Pat, it’s not exactly the case. It’s somehow ... as is. Let’s say when he teases Pran. The reason he does that is because he wanted to see Pran’s expressions, since he likes it; if Pran gets angry for real, he just have to apologize and Pran would forgive him. That simple.

But that’s not how simple feelings are. There are many more complicated feelings out there that he chose to ignore just because Pran is his friend. Let’s say jealousy for example. In the previous episodes, he either doesn’t take it seriously or just doesn’t have an idea that it even exist. It is worse that when he gets jealous, he just attributes it to nonsense things – and when I say nonsense, yeah, nonsense. Since we don’t have anyone he’s currently jealous off except one person, let’s just get on with him. These days, the apple of his jealousy is oftentimes Wai (I mean especially this episode). Before, whenever he feels jealous or any way, he oftentimes dump the reason of their faculties being enemies and all that stuff – he believed that covers up everything – and starts a fight.

He made it look really complicated because he himself couldn’t understand what he feels. So now that he already does, I think we could see Pat’s new expressions in the later episodes.

In short, I’M SERIOUSLY THINKING TOO MUCH LOL.

 How about the fight with Wai? Did it happen in the novel?

YES! It actually happened in the novel.

As for the differences, it’s fundamentally different. I mean the reason for the fight is. I will give a few details with it on the next few paragraphs and I will also give my say on which I like.

In the novel, it was because Pat was jealous and worried. Before it happened, they had a fight (about their first kiss in the novel). Pat and Pran weren’t on speaking terms; they were basically ignoring each other. That night, Pran was drinking with Wai when Pat and his pals came in at the same bar. Both of them were regulars so meeting in that place was not a surprise for the two. For a moment, Pran and Pat’s eyes met halfway but it didn’t last; Pran immediately turned back to Wai and his drink. As for Pat, after meeting Pran’s eyes, he did not say a thing anymore.

As the night went on, Pat was still with Gon and his friends drinking. Nat was also in the scene flirting with Pat. Pran saw this and requested to Wai if they could go home now; Pran looked drunk, his white complexion now lathered in a pinkish hue but in reality he really wasn’t. But since Pran asked him to, Wai complied and they walked out the bar together.

Pat who was checking Pran from time to time saw Pran walking out with Wai. Pran had his arm over Wai’s shoulders, so as an onlooker, it seemed like Pran was drunk and Wai was helping him.

He was annoyed, borderline angry. But all-in-all, he was worried about Pran. Even though he knew that Pran could throw strong, solid punches, it will not matter if he’s drunk. Essentially, Pat was thinking that Wai could take advantage with the situation. Infuriated with the thought, Pat managed to excuse himself, putting money on the table , and followed Wai.

However, Pat was narrowly stopped by Nat. She followed him through the crowd as he was walking out. Pat did not like it; he did not actually fancy Nat at all. He made it clear with his actions but it seemed like this Nat person is headstrong. Pat sighs telling Nat straight that what happened between them was only a one-time-thing, and that she should not expect more. He said that they were only satisfying their carnal desires and that was it. Pat checked for Wai once more, and when he saw that the person he had been chasing after had gone, it spoilt his already spoilt mood.

Pat straightforwardly told Nat that he cannot like her the way she wanted him to like her. However, Nat was persistent. She wanted Pat and it will never change. (I mean who wouldn’t like Pat.) Pat, running out of options, leaned in close to Nat causing the girl to blush. He told her that he thinks he likes men and not women. He went on saying that even though he can sleep with women; his feelings towards that person will never change.

This infuriated Nat. Feeling embarrassed; she slapped Pat out of contempt before walking out on him. Instead of being annoyed with Nat, however, he was annoyed about the fact that the person he was chasing after vanished from his radar.

Without much of a choice, Pat went straight back to the condo. As he was walking out of the elevator, he saw Wai standing together with the groggy Pran in front of his room. Seeing Wai holding Pran boiled Pat’s blood that he went and rushed push Wai away from Pran.

Pran who wasn’t actually drunk was surprised with Pat’s entourage. Sensing that it won’t end nicely, he hold the two hot headed guys off. He tried to calm Pat down but the guy was livid, and to add fuel to the fire, Wai was also gawking at Pat. He was left with no choice. Pran needed to calm both of these men before something happens, so he chose Pat over Wai. He asked Wai to just go home and not to start a fight. But Wai was stubborn enough not to listen to him, so Pat raised his voice at Wai telling him that he was going to be fine and that Pat won’t hurt him in any way.

It wasn’t easy convincing Wai at all. It took time but Pran raising his voice sealed the deal.

In the end, Wai decided to go along with Pran but before going off, he told Pran to call him if anything happens.

Meanwhile in the series, Pat was annoyed at Pran because of three reasons: (1) because of the song that Pran played during the festival, (2) because doesn’t understand the Pran’s reason of adamantly denying him in front of Wai, and (3) the fact that Pran was with Wai.

Actually, Pat’s intention was only to talk to Pran. He even brought the same spread that Pran was using as compensation. But probably because of the influence of alcohol, he got annoyed of the fact that Wai was the one who brought Pran back. He called Pran, but Pran came to him telling him things like he can’t accept defeat and stuff.

Pat literally didn’t have a choice but to tell Pran that he isn’t. His mistake was probably when he unintentionally insulted Pran’s song.

But here’s what I think. During that scene, Pran actually didn’t have a choice. If he didn’t make a move, Wai would’ve confronted Pat and it would’ve been a disaster. They were all drunk and no one would know in what circle of hell alcohol would bring them. So before Wai could even confront Pat, he went and did it himself. He ran out of ideas so he started a fight over the music competition. But his real purpose was to pacify Pat, to at least make it look like he will leave. That’s why he kept on telling Pat that it wasn’t the time to be silly. But Pat went too far with his remark on his song; but he knew that Pat was drunk so he asks him to go. But when Pat still didn’t listen, he knew he had to do something, so he grabbed his shirt, pushing him away, telling him to stop what he was doing. But Pat’s concern was now twisted to a different direction.

Pat thought that Pran was protecting Wai, and he didn’t like the ring of it. Why would he protect Wai and hide the fact that they’re friends, when he knew Pran first? That was probably the thing that was running on his mind.

But he did held back; when Pran grabbed Pat’s shirt, he held back in hurting or doing anything to Pran. But the gesture somehow gave him the green flag that Pran was indeed protecting Wai.

It didn’t sit well with Pat that’s why he asked Pran why he was so scared about his friend knowing what their relationship was.

Pran’s stressed about keeping Wai at bay, and now he needs to deal with Pat too. But he knew Pat, if he puts his mind to something, he’d see it done so he needed to be more cautious with Pat. So when he taunted back, he did not hesitate to go to Pat instead of Wai. But as hardworking as he was, he was still not able to hold the two back and punches were thrown.

He, at least was able to minimize the exchange to one punch each. But still.

Truth was, he was disappointed at Pat because of three things: (1) because of what he said about the song (the reason why he brought it in when they were talking in the rooftop too), (2) because even though Pat knew that no one should know about their relationship was, he still pushed to threaten him with it, and (3) because punches were thrown, even with his best efforts, he was still not able to stop Pat from being violent to Wai.

So which version do I prefer more?

Both versions have their own charms. The series version was a prologue for Pat to convey his feelings to Pran. At this point, Pat already realized his feelings for Pran and was already jealous with Wai. The events just exacerbated his feelings. Thus, it’s safe to say that if they did not fight, we wouldn’t get that sweet, beautiful rooftop kiss.

However, for this round, I would go with the novel version. The thing about the novel version is that, it actually showcased the extent to what Pat would lay down for Pran, and of course how protective Pat for Pran as well. Remember that while it unfolded, Pat was still fighting with Pran and they were essentially not in speaking terms but even so, when he sensed that Pran was in danger, he was prepared to abandon his pride just to go to Pran’s side; heck, he even outed himself to Nat just to go to Pran. Also, what’s good with the novel version was it was the exact time that they made up and became lovers.

But nevertheless, we have different opinions regarding this one. I personally liked the series version too, it’s just that, I fell in love with the novel version of this scene so that’s why it’s kind of hard not to get attached.

Anyways, you can share what you prefer to me too.

 So are there any differences (or similarities) in the first kissing scene of Pat and Pran from the novel and the series?

YES. That’s my answer.

It was so different in all aspects that it’s funny and at the same its relieving that they chose to recreate.

In the series, the kiss was consensual. Pat kissed Pran first. It was actually Pat testing his own feelings with Pran, that’s why after the kiss he felt so relieved. Then the second one was initiated by Pran himself. It was Pran relieving his longingness for Pat and probably Pran’s last farewell to Pat himself.

The first kiss was a trial-and-error for Pat. He didn’t know how Pran would react and just went along with it. When he saw Pran slowly glace at his lips for a moment, he felt like he needed to take the chance and do it.

The second one was a gamble for Pran. He knew Pat was just testing waters when he kissed him. And when he saw Pat’s relief after doing so, he knew he needed to grab his chance to do it himself as well.

The second kiss was the one we should take notice on. Pran poured everything he had for that kiss without knowing how the other person would respond, and when Pat did, it became a very beautiful scene. What’s more amazing is the fact that Pat and Pran had different feelings while kissing. Pat felt good, undoubtedly. He liked the kiss, so much as to deepening it further and going to such lengths as to holding Pran to do so. But Pran felt anxious and sad instead. For Pran, the relationship he has with Pat is fragile one. He wants him but he also knows that he cannot have him. He had been longing for him although he knew he cannot – should not – feel that way. Pran was just happy with the state they were in; Pat coming over a few times, them bickering over the smallest things, and competing with one another. Now that Pat knew what he really felt, Pran was left asking himself what’s next. How should he face Pat in the morning? Should he act normal as if nothing happened? Or would Pat even want to talk to him even? There are a lot of things running in his mind at that moment but he chose to throw them back and just go along with it. That made the whole scene even better.

Aside from the underlying factors, another thing that captivated me the most while I was watching the whole part was the hand placements made by Ohm and Nanon during the scene. You see, when people kiss, where they place their hands can actually make a big difference. It could either completely ruin the mood or turn the mood into beautiful scenery, taking it a notch higher. There are a lot of series who failed to deliver this kind of feeling, that even if the chemistry of the actors were top notch, it all washed to drain with how bland they kiss. But Nanon and Ohm were built different. It’s either they got trained hard or they’re natural-born kissers. I mean, look here. The way Nanon’s hand was on Ohm’s nape felt different. It was as if he was telling us how deep his character’s feeling to Pat, too much which I think he needed to win an award for it. In the series, we know that Nanon plays a guy who had been in love with someone he knew he couldn’t really have – be it with their family circumstances, their gender, or just anything - so when he had the chance to show even the least of his feelings to Pat, all he had to do was strike while the iron is hot and grab the chance to, like what he did. And the way Ohm grabbed Nanon’s cheek then sliding his hands to the back of his head, softly ruffling his hair while kissing him was just golden. Aside from it really screamed TOP energy, it felt as if he was showing us that his character finally let loose of the feelings he had for the character Pran; after being confused for so long, it was as if he finally found his home. And I must say Ohm improved with his kiss scenes, so proud lol.

Meanwhile, in the novel, it was the other way around. Because Pat and Pran were actually fighting when their first kiss happened, it was inevitable full of animosity. It was not consensual and it was forceful to boot. In the scene, they were fighting because Pat was too impulsive that he really went on and slept with the most troublesome girl in the campus; Pran was telling him that he should not mess with the girl. Annoyed, Pat stressed out that he could sleep with anyone he wants, just like Pran could be with anyone he wants. Pran knew his issue with Wai and tells Pat that Wai is his friend. Pran told Pat that he was friends with the girl too, and if Pran wanted, he could just sleep with Wai just like what he did because friends can sleep together if they want. This annoyed Pran telling him that if Par didn’t ask him to make up with Pat, he wouldn’t even try to talk to him. The words that came out of Pran’s mouth infuriated Pat that he became disrespectful and sarcastic to Pran. The room owner just couldn’t hold his anger any longer that he grabbed Pat by his collar. But it was obvious that Pat was stronger, and he easily pushed Pran to the wall, telling him that Pran could never defeat him in a real fight. Pran asked him what he was going to do; that if he wanted to punch him, he should already. He tells Pran that he could always punish him in many ways if he wanted before kissing him; after releasing Pran, he then asked the room owner about his real intentions – was he asking him to stop messing around because Par told him so or what he jealous of Pat. Pran punched and kicked him hard as retaliation though.

The novel one was good, there was a point that I really wanted to see it in the series but when I saw Nanon and Ohm as Pran and Pat, I couldn’t help but be thankful that it was changed. Although from their Blacklist and The Gifted experience, there was no doubt both of them can pull off such forceful kiss, I doubt that it will match the mood of the series was trying to build from the start; Bad Buddy The Series wanted to paint a picture of a soft Pat and Pran in an environment where they needed to be strong – strong enough to compete with each other - adding such violent scene would probably ruin the ambiance of the whole series. Not to mention, it happened in Pran’s room. If you’re watching vigilantly enough, the director seemed to make Pat and Pran’s room a safe haven for the both of them. There was like this unwritten words that they absolutely can’t fight in there. Adding that would ruin this rule so it was good that they changed. But if it started as a gangster genre (like Not Me The Series) I think the forceful one would be possible, but since it didn’t, I’ll stick with the sweet one.

 In the next episode, we will see what happened after the kiss. After that scene, Pran walked out on Ohm and he left him there confused of what happened. Next time, we would know why Pran did that and on what extent Pat can go just to talk to Pran. It’s kind of exciting, knowing that Pat is going after Pran with a pre-meditated purpose, not like before.

And the ever waited beach episode? I’ll fucking take it dude, I mean. Why not?

PS: Check the Wattpad version here

And finally my ever-trusty potato.

[bellarkeandclintashaandsuch]

Bad Buddy Episode 5 Thoughts:

This got a little out of hand

- No!!!! I forgot how sad our little Pran was when we left him!

- What is he putting on his toast?

- Are you my wife, Pat? So now Pran is referring to them as a couple. Mmk.

- Pat’s like, look at me! I’m so cute! Please don’t kick me out! And Pran can’t help but smile. ):)

- The ceiling in this apartment seems low. But that seems kind of nice, so then you can reach the top shelves in the kitchen. Maybe it’s just in the kitchen?

- He’s got a photo of candy corns on his wall.

- He called him Dimples!

- Don’t touch my stuff! *immediately opens up Pran’s notebook*

- “I don’t know how to flirt. Can I give you dumplings instead?” I wonder if Pat’s going to get some dumplings soon.

- Oh, my gosh! I absolutely thought he used Pat’s name as his password. This is slightly better. Pransocool. He is right.

- Does Pat not get it? Oh, no. He got it.

- Or not hahahaha. So Cool brand

- Aww, look at the soft smile on Pat’s face when he sees the photos on Pran’s computer 🥰 Pran was definitely going through old photos of Pat wistfully

- Oh, no! Wai’s too observant.

- Haha Pran grabbed him from behind.

- He hasn’t gone into his room, bud. Did you think he’d show up shirtless?

- The look on Pran’s face when Pat starts smelling his shirt. 😂 He’s like why did this have to be the man I fell in love with?

- Ink’s like finally my high school ship is going to sail!

- Aww, poor Pran. Remembering Pat saying he likes Ink.

- Pat does not lack confidence, that’s for sure.

- Loving this part 2 intro drawing a line between Pat and Pran’s eyes.

- Aww, Pat’s unlucky in love? Buying things for girls who turn around and dumb him :( Just date Pran. Problem solved.

- Pa’s like, it’s happpeninnnng!

- I can’t wait for the gif sets with these indicators of attraction between Pat and Pran.

- He’s just going to leave his “date” with Ink early to pick up drumsticks 😂

- What were the numbers? Number 1, there’s a hint from physical contact or something? Mmk 👀

- Oh, suddenly the drum sticks don’t matter so much?

- Ohhhh, that’s a smile! He looked away!

- Is that your date? Which one was this? Wanting to know if they’re taken is Number 3, I believe.

- Oh, dang! Pat’s thinking about the numbers himself! And now he’s panicking. I did think that Pat would notice Pran showcasing the signs. I like that he’s noticing it in himself instead :)

- I like this music

- Aww, sweetie! He looks so distressed!

- He can’t open the condiment…

- I hope Pat sees his little drawing of the note Pat left him 🥺

- Oh, no! Pran saw their date! :(

- 😂 maybe I’m just excited…

- Have you eaten?

- I’m not jealous, though. *wears a scowl while Pran talks to Wai on the phone*

- HAS HE EVER SPENT THE NIGHT HERE?!? Why is that so important to you, Pat?

- Please tell me that Pat realizes he’s jealous right now. Or is he like, hmm photo of Pran and a woman. I feel nothing. Thinking of Pran taking him friend home makes me burn with rage, but that’s nothing.

- He slept right where you did 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂 Do you know what you’re doing, Pran? Pat’s about to implode

- WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL ME, HE SAYS! Pat! You aren’t dating, yet!

- I do have to say, I did not expect Pat to have this realization before confessing to Ink. But I like this.

- Pat! You big dork! Pran’s idea is “born to be together” and Pat’s like seeing each other every day? Sounds like us! You’re right. We’re born to be together… as rivals! What a great song idea!

- How do Pran’s friends know the song if they just got it last minute?

- Love me some protective Wai.

- Pran: I wrote this song with my high school friend. The song: Are we just friends? Pran: Don’t read too much into that. Or do.

- I love Wai and Pran’s friendship so much. I hope he doesn’t secretly have a crush on Pran or anything. But I am loving Pat getting jealous of him. And I think it’s even better if they are just friends on both sides. Makes his jealousy even more nonsensical.

- Ink is so perceptive.

- Aww, yeah! I’m glad architecture won. Considering it’s the only group we saw perform. And I love Pran’s friends more.

- I mean, why do you come here when you know Wai works here?

- Wai, don’t act like them.

- Wow, that got really intense. I was not expecting this fight between them.

- Why was Pran so angry off the bat, though? Or was he still pretending even though he was drunk? Is Pat also drunk? I still just love Wai so much. Constantly ready to throw down for his friends. I’m glad Pran got him to leave. I get so much anxiety when secrets are revealed, even if it’s for the best. 😬

- I particularly liked, it’s not the time to be silly.

- Ohm is really selling the myriad of emotions Pat is feeling right now.

- I’m sorry, is Pat going to be wearing a shirt that says Baseball Mom for an emotional scene?

- I don’t like you playing our song with someone else. 😭😭😭

- Stop doing this to me. We’re not a thing. We’re not even friends. Okay, Pran. I’m going to need you to stop taking a sledgehammer to my heart, please!

- He kept track of everything Pran did. 😭 And it was so depressingly lonely for him while Pran was gone! 😭😭😭😭

- This thing we have now! Name it! Name the thing!

- If we’re not enemies, can we be friends?

- I’m just typing everything they say, but it’s all so emotionally charged!

- Pran is crying! 😭

- Is Pat crying too???

- Pat kissed Pran!!!!! He kissed Pran! They’re kissing!

- Even when he moved closer I didn’t think he’d actually kiss him! This is only episode 5! Ahhh 🥰🥰🥰🥰

- And Pran pulled him back in! This is so romantic 😭 Pat was like, I’ve made up my mind. I have feelings for you and this cannot wait. And Pran was like well I’ve waited ages. I’m getting another kiss.

- Pran pulled away with a pained look on his face, and Pat pulled away with a relieved look on his face. I don’t like what that says.

- He walked away! Oh my gosh! Pat was like, this is great! We’ll be together now! It took me a minute, but now it’s all making sense. We’re in love! But Pran knows it’s not that easy. Pat really only had Pran on his mind, and thought the world would right itself once he allowed himself to give in to his feelings. But Pran knows they’ll have to deal with their families and faculties and it’ll be hard for them :(

- Sorry, babe. We’re only on episode 5. Can’t have your happily ever after, yet.

- I can’t believe they’re going to play the game of “whoever falls in love first loses” when they’ve already made out in a rooftop like that. They’re playing each other and themselves, and the director is playing us.

- I would like Pran to confide in Wai, so at least he would have someone to talk to about all this, the way Pat has Pa and even Ink kinda, even though she’s friends with them both.

[chalkrevelations]

Alright alright alright. Bad Buddy, Ep 3, Part 4/4, in which Pat learns and grows as a person and makes it Engineering’s problem (lit. and fig.).

First, due diligence: This almost definitely contains spoilers for later eps, so if you haven’t finished watching the series and want to see it unspoiled, drive through and come back when you’re finished watching.

OPEN ON: The Engineering secondary backup hobbits gaming on their phones out at the picnic tables. Korn does NOT appear to be very good at it, especially when Pat shows up and knocks him in the head with his messenger bag, which I don’t know if we’ve seen before this. Maybe he only carries it around when he needs to hit Korn in the head. Korn dies in the game, and he’s irritated now, and Pat was already irritated, and Korn wants to know wth that was about, and Pat basically tells him that he’s lucky he’s not getting worse. So, all the hobbits are baffled at this point, and Chang asks why Pat is bullying them, and I roll my eyes at this fk’n guy so hard that I catch a glimpse of grey matter, because y’all ought to know from bullying, right? Very sad that the sword you live by has come back to smack you upside the head. Now, tbf, I’m actually kind of torn about this scene, because Pat then goes on to look and sound incredulous, asking them “Do you need to ask?” like these guys should somehow know that suddenly all the rules have changed. Pat, not everyone has been on an inner journey of self-discovery while watching Pran being adorable eating his wontons, OK? This scene is set at the same place where these guys first came up with their plot to film themselves kicking the shit out of Wai and getting video of it while Pat also vowed to break Architecture’s fingers – which now that I think about it is a particularly douchebro threat to make about people who need to do drafting work with their hands, whether drawing on paper or using computer graphics – and a little bit, I have to wonder if the setting is deliberate, a sign that they’re all still back there in that mindset. But now, Pat asks why they posted the video, which come on, man, is a little bit unfair, since you were the one who insisted you would need your manly pride salved by posting the video. You’ve changed the rules on them, so I can kind of get their confusion, but on the other hand, they do still continue to be terrible: Korn’s response is “So?” and his response to learning that Architecture is footing the bill for repairs is “So?” and they all want to know why Pat cares anyway, I mean, he’s Engineering, right, so why is he acting weird? At this point, you can see on Ohm’s face that Pat is having a little “oh” moment, realizing that he is what’s changed, not the world around him. (Hold that thought for a lot of episodes.)

Quick cut to Pat in his dorm room, probably that evening, coming in the door, wandering around, unable to settle. He finally goes to the closet, where he pulls out …. Pran’s guitar. We flashback to the scene in the music store from earlier in the ep, just in case we’ve forgotten, to emphasize that when Pat asked Pran about his guitar, that was a fishing expedition, because Pat knew better than Pran what happened to the guitar. Back in present day, Pat’s smiling at the guitar, possibly contemplating what he’s gonna do with Pran’s baby, which he’s sort of kidnapped at this point.

Cut to the cafeteria, probably the next day, where Pran and the Architecture secondary backup hobbits are sitting around, talking about how much money they still need. It’s 10K, according to Pran – presumably baht, which converts to right around $300 USD, and guys. Guys, seriously. I have $300. Hit me up and I’ll get it to you. Anyway, this is apparently money that’s needed for labor, so I guess they have materials covered. Wai wants to know if they can borrow the money from the Student Union, and this is another place that I don’t know if this is deliberate or sloppy writing, because you should know that, Wai. Pran sent you to talk to the Student Union people at the beginning of the ep – what, did you get sidetracked by … well, Korn is the most likely thing for you to get sidetracked by, because we’ve already established a pattern of you two being weird about each other. At any rate, Wai says he – he, not they - could pay the SU back in installments. Pran says that no, SU needs their funds for the senior’s prom. Louis wants to know if they can ask their friends for help, and my dude, do you have any friends who aren’t sitting at this table? Wai apparently feels the same way, because he remarks somewhat bitterly that nobody cares, and anyway, they need money to pay the engineers on the project – unspoken is the follow-through that none of their friends are engineers, because none of Engineering are their friends, although Pran’s face is doing some interesting things, here. I’m beginning to have some déjà vu – this is a little reminiscent of the “Where are we going to get $500” conversation in Dirty Dancing, and for a hot minute I imagine Baby Pran trying the same thing, going to Dissaya to say he needs $300 to help a friend, but he can’t say for what, but it’s nothing bad, he promises, and then I realize that if this situation was reversed and Engineering was on the hook, Pat would probably be able to go to Ming and walk away with this money, because Ming would be so proud that Pat and his friends were involved in some ass-kicking, based on the dinner conversation they had about the first fight, in Ep 1. UGH. ANYWAY, all the hobbits are despondent, and Pran suggests they go back out to the thrashed bus stop and see if there’s anything else left in the heap of old materials that they could sell.

Cut to the bus stop, where there is nothing left to sell – certainly nothing that’s going to get them 10K baht. We do get the chance to see a pair of red/yellow trashcans make a brief appearance, though, which may be a little Easter egg or may be a sign of a limited production budget. Wai asks how long it’s going to take the four of them to build the new bus stop, and Pran nixes the idea, saying they need to hire people. From off-camera we hear the sound of footsteps and a voice: “Are you talking about us?’ We get a slo-mo shot of Pat, Korn, Chang, Mo, and a couple of tertiary backup hobbits they picked up somewhere, coming in like some cavalry to save the day. This is a hero shot, and I think it’s supposed to be ironic? Flashback to a continuation of the previous scene at the picnic tables, when everyone else wanted to know why Pat cared and why they should care, because they are legitimately The Worst: Korn is completely baffled by Pat’s suggestion that they help Architecture rebuild. Chang asks if Pat’s really an Engineering student and wants to know why they should have any sympathy for Architecture (because it proves you’re not a complete sociopathic asshole, you jerk. I don’t know how to explain to you that you should care about other people.). And Pat does something that’s kind of interesting, here – he goes into teaching mode. He lays out the situation and then leads them to the answer that he wants them to have, but he lets them come up with it for themselves so that they’ll have more buy-in: He reminds them that the previous bus stop was (supposedly, according to the lie Pran pulled out of his ass) built by both faculties, so it was common territory, but if ONLY Architecture rebuilds, then … Korn still looks baffled at this point. Oh, honey. I guess stupid babies DO need the most love. Mo, however, sits up and exclaims that this will make it completely Arch territory. Cue dramatic music. Chang breaks in that their rights and freedumb to use the bus stop may suffer. Yes, that’s right, you’re going to be oppressed by Architecture and not allowed to catch the bus. Sure, Jan. At any rate, Pat applauds them for coming to the correct conclusion and says he has an idea of how to prevent losing stake in this territory. Cut back to present day, and Pat plants a sign in the ground, naming the area the Pavilion of “Peace” built by Engineering-Architecture students, and lol. I see your scare quotes there. I’m not sure if this is deliberately incorrect, whether this is a Doylist meta-level screw-up or something that’s supposed to be incorrect within the world of the show. At any rate, it’s probably a sign that we’re not going to be seeing actual peace quite yet. Pran’s WTF face on being presented by this group and their sign is delightful. This asshole will not stop interfering with his life or joking around about this. Pat, however, explains that if Engineering helps build the bus stop, they’ll have enough workers AND someone to supervise the project without having to hire engineers – and he’s talked to their instructors about it. Pat throws a little look Korn’s way at this point and Korn nods in support (I also want to make a little note here that Korn is NOT in an engineering jacket, but in one of his windbreakers, which interestingly enough is engineering blue on top and architecture red on the bottom).

Pat is grinning, at this point – he’s proud of himself for this, and frankly he ought to be, but he’s also, I think, happy to have found a way to help Pran out. OK, FINE. You can stay, Pat. You’re still on probation, though. He holds out his hand for Pran to shake, Pran takes a step toward him … and Wai, in contrast to Korn, is NOT down with this. Let’s be fair, here: Not only has Korn had some time to process and come to terms with this new arrangement, rather than just having it sprung on him (and remember his response when Pat DID spring it on him), he’s also not the one who’s been consistently attacked, assaulted, and harassed. If I was Wai, I wouldn’t want them involved, either, and I definitely wouldn’t trust them. Given their track record, I’d have absolutely no guarantee that they wouldn’t end up stealing the materials, selling them off for beer money, and leaving me and my friends completely and totally fucked. They’ve consistently demonstrated that they’re The Worst, and this worst-case scenario would be consistent with their standard M.O. I know I keep coming back to this, but it’s a huge topic in the fandom, that Wai needs to apologize for What He Does. I want to point out that despite his treatment up until now, nobody has apologized to him. Nobody will ever apologize to him for that treatment. Even now, this ceasefire is being presented as a favor to him, which he has to accept because he’s up against the wall – Safe points out that they don’t have any other choice. Later in this ep, Pat will ask Pran if this makes everything even. He sure as shit won’t ask Wai, despite the fact that Wai is the one who’s suffered far and away the most physical and emotional violence from Pat, Korn, and the rest of Engineering. What Pat is really worried about is if this makes things between him and Pran OK, and Pran says yes like that’s all that’s necessary. It’s maybe Pran’s first betrayal of Wai, who get zero closure here, with anyone. I think it’s a big part of the reason why Wai spends the next five and a half episodes walking around like an open wound, and a ton of reaction to the character is inexplicably going to be that he’s just awful and unpleasant and needs to die in a fire. :hands: ANYWAY. We’ll get back to the issue of apologies again, I’m sure, but for now, Pat and Pran shake hands. Pat’s still smiling. Pran is almost smiling back.

Cut to that night, back at the dorm. We see Pran come out of his room and dither around in the hallway in front of Pat’s door, turning every now and then to go back into his room, a positioning of him in relation to the camera that makes it Super Obvious that he’s still wearing The Watch. He finally goes to knock on Pat’s door, but before he can, Pat pulls it open and is right up in his face, grinning and remarking that Pran’s been lurking outside his door, which leads me to the question: How long have you been standing there looking out your peephole like a creepster in order to know that, Pat? Also, UGH, your posture is awful, Pran, I constantly want to poke you between the shoulder blades and make you stand up straighter, I can’t believe Dissaya allows you to get away with that. Anyway, Pran’s super obviously trying to be casual and is absolutely failing at it. Pat is grinning in a way that might be obnoxiously smug if not for Ohm’s ridiculous charisma. These two are absolutely ridiculous, and I love them, your honor. Pran says thanks for the bus stop agreement; Pat admits that it’s Engineering’s fault, too, and asks if they can call it even now. So, having already said some things about my reaction to that, I do also want to point out that this framing means that Pat continues to use the language of competition. He wants to know if they’ve evened the score. At any rate, Pran nods. Pat nods. Pat’s like, OK then, and turns to go back in his room. Pran’s all, hey, um, have you eaten? And Pat inexplicably says yes. WHAT? Why are you passing up the chance to spend time with Pran when HE made the offer, Pat? Even if you have eaten, how hard would it be to lie? And I’ve seen you eat, I know you can manage more food if you have to sell the lie. Why are you trying to so hard to disabuse me of the notion that Korn’s the dumbass? Pran is all, well OK. Bye, then. Pat stops him and goes back in his room, to re-emerge with Pran’s guitar, FINALLY. (I have to wonder if he kept it until now, when Pran isn’t mad at him, because he didn’t want to use the guitar as a way to get back into Pran’s good graces, he wanted it to be meaningful on its own.) Pran is all, “MY BABY!” Pat explains that the high-school music-club room got cleaned out and he tried to sell the guitar on E-Bay, but nobody wanted it, so he kept it sitting around cluttering up his closet. He does not at all mention what we’ll find out later actually happened - which is that he ran after Pran to try to give the guitar to him, but that he wasn’t fast enough - because he’s not yet ready to be exposed as the gigantic sap that he actually is. Pran says thanks again, and they both sit down in the No Man’s Land of the hallway, and Pran noodles on the guitar a little bit. They’re still grinning at each other, because when they share music like this, it means they’re In Harmony, a metaphor that the show repeatedly draws out, from the discordant musical face-off they have in the music room in Ep 1, when they’re waiting to get entry forms for the music competition and are trying desperately to telepathically project how much they hate each other; through all of the confrontation involved in Pran using “Just Friend” when they’re competing against each other before Pat finally gets there and kisses Pran on the roof; to Ep 12, when we’re supposed to believe they’re estranged but the fact that they play music together at the school reunion is a clue that all is not as it seems, and they’re actually still together. Pran mentions that it’s a shame they can’t compete in the music competition since the bus stop got trashed in the fight, and Pat is all, you haven’t heard? We’re back in the competition.

Flashback to Pat in the instructor’s office, pleading for him to reconsider. He mentions that Architecture and Engineering are re-building the bus stop together and says that participating in the same activity might help better relations, which NO, PAT. I mean, yes, a collaborative activity like re-building the bus stop might indeed do that, but a competitive activity is only going to lead to more conflict. You have got to learn to speak an intimate language other than competition. On a micro-level, you’re going to discover that you and Pran function better as a team than competing, and you need to learn this on a macro-level, in the way you and your friends deal with everyone else. We get to see exactly why you are this way, though, because the next thing you say to the instructor is to talk about how much your dad is pressuring you to “bring him the trophy” (emphasis mine). Instructor is all, fine, fine, but if anything happens again, everything is off, no, really, I mean it this time, no, really. Cut back to Pat and Pran, with Pat continuing to act as if he has no clue how this has all happened. He tells Pran to practice hard, so there’s no excuse if he loses to Engineering. Pran leans forward, playfully confrontational, and remarks that Pat seems so happy to compete with him. Pat leans forward and remarks that Pran does too, and also has he mentioned, he just like to see Pran’s face … And speaking of Pran’s FACE, when he hears this, Nanon pulls out all the microexpression stops, and there’s this entire face journey going on, including this hope that’s just painful to look at, and I swear he’s looking at Pat’s mouth, he looks like this is the moment he’s lived for his entire life ... and then Pat finishes his sentence, “when you LOSE,” and cackles as he chucks Pran under the chin and ruffles his hair, and istg, it’s like the light momentarily goes out of Pran’s eyes. Pat, you need to get there faster before I put a shiv in you. He gets up and goes back in his room, but Pran keeps sitting there for a minute, coming to terms with this ridiculous repressed asshole he’s in love with. He looks at The Watch, and then up at Pat’s door, and he’s kind of rueful, because apparently this is his life now, but when he does get up and goes into his own room – with his newly returned guitar – we see the door re-open a moment later, and he sticks out his hand to flip his frowny face door sign upside down to make it a smiley face. And scene.

NEXT TIME: Tension between Architecture and Engineering, Pran sends everyone to their separate corners, and Pat’s very into Gay Chicken.

[captainstarkky]

Bad Buddy The Series Ep. 11: Cursed Episode? Nah-uh.

So hello everyone! We’re back this week with Bad Buddy Ep. 11. I’m actually writing this just after watching episode eleven - and yeah, I’m probably writing a script for a formal reaction video for youtube.

Anyway, this will be very short so let’s go straight to the point of this post. 

Is Bad Buddy’s eleventh episode really a cursed episode?

In a way, yeah - especially if you’ve watched until the end; but entirely, no.

Instead of feeling as if it was, I felt like it was a healing episode. I’ve made a lot of realizations and a lot of thoughts about it - which will be added to my formal weekly recaps - that somehow, I’ve even wondered how much of a handful I was when I was a kid (I’m officially an adult eight years ago?). 

Before I go with it, I’d like to make it clear that: Pat and Pran were still brats. Not literally, but figuratively. 

I’ve realized that as I’ve watched the episode. 

There was this looming question I had in my head since last week: why do people run away when they have problems even?

Accept it or not, we, as youngsters often run away from ourselves when we encounter a problem that we think are beyond of what we are capable of. We began making a web of reasons to explain our side of things and eventually come to a realization that we are quite wrong doing so. That’s probably how our two leads felt.

The thing about their parents are too hard for them to handle so they have no other choice but to run away together. But I think in reality, they just wanted to escape everything. They wanted to run from it but in essence, Pat and Pran just wanted to be in a world where they can be themselves. So they did. But as they stayed longer, they eventually opened their eyes that running away won’t solve the problem and sooner or later, they’d be forced to face the problem again.

So as I was saying, Pat and Pran are brats. They’re literally kids trapped in a second year college’s body. That’s probably why Pran easily saw himself in Junior. Because he realized that all in all, what they were doing weren’t really solving the problem - but is delaying the problem. They weren’t only running away from reality, but from themselves as well.

There’s a reason why Pran is the most affected with the situation though. Yes, some might argue that they’re both affected but let’s try to examine (1) family structure and (2) social structure.

 Pran is an only child. I am guessing that while Pran’s dad is busy with their company, Pran only had his mom. Basically, Pran is a mama’s boy, in layman’s term. A person who’s very close to his mom can’t be away from her for a long time. I’ve expected him not to last for a few days. Also, given at what happened between them, Pran should’ve felt really bad, guilty and devastated just because of the fact that he talked back to her. Pat had Pa. Whatever he can’t tell his parent’s he can tell Pa about it and it’s fine because Pa is still family. Something Pran doesn’t have. If he can’t confide to his mom, who would he confide to?

Pat is way more sociable that Pran. He’s a people’s person and just gets along with everyone he meet. Running away might not be a big deal for extroverts but it is for introverts. It’s not a straight cut thing someone like Pran would do. Without Pat there, Pran wouldn’t even last a day.

But you know what’s amazing, disregarding everything I’ve written in number bullets, they actually solved everything on their own. Pat stayed with Pran and so as Pran. They might be selfish children in the eyes of us, adults, but all in all, they were there for each other - and I think that is what love is. Standing beside one another even if other people doesn’t approve. A you and me against the world thing. It sounds really lame but when you’re just there you can't laugh it off as a silly thing to believe.

My favorite part? When Pat said: “...And together, we’ve been through a lot. We’ve experienced wonderful times a lot, we’ve had awful times a lot, we’ve looked out for each other a lot, we’ve been concerned about each other a lot, we’ve been thinking about each other a lot, and we’ve been happier a lot.”

Why? Well aside from the fact that it actually mirrors the thought that I want people to think throughout my recaps from Ep. 1, it also mirrors Pat’s and Pran’s true feelings to one another. Because they indeed were feelings those things as they were growing up.

Really, this episode is a breakthrough for GMM. I liked it and not regretting every moment I spent waiting for it. Props to Pat being too patient with Pran. We know how Pran is but Pat was always there for him althroughout. And props to Pran being he is. He supported Pat’s decision and stood for him all along the way. Can’t these two be more perfect? They’re basically like two wolves.

Context: When wolves are attacked one (usally the female) actually acts as if it cowers to the male’s chest (neck-line) but in reality, it protects the male’s weakest part (which is it’s throat) from being attacked. Just like Pat and Pran, even if they’re being thrown sticks and stones, Pat’s aggressive behavior doesn’t - and will never bother Pran - instead he’d just stand by him and protect his weakest parts (his heart).

But either way, Episode 11 gives me feels like: You know, it’s like seeing people fall in love in a 360 degree point of view. You kinda know it would end but you enjoy the moment.

And that’s when I realized the curse.

I mean, I know that not all good things comes for free but it’s just hard to accept that leaving their dream also means leaving each other’s arms.

It’s bittersweet. It’s like they met the right person, just not on the right time.

For the recap and ... Ep. 12 theories. I’ll post them altogether later. lol. And seriously, the whole episode got me confused who’s who (if you know, you know)