Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Saint laid down in his bed, sighing. It is the last day of the holidays, and he had to attend school again. He tossed to the left, looking at the clock that shows "23:00". He had planned to go to sleep early, part of his plan to be a better Saint for this new year. His first year wasn't the greatest, he was always late to school and well, people tend to stay away from him too. He looked at his left arm, abit bruised from the small fall he had earlier helping out his father's stall. He didn’t see the small cat on the floor while trying to hand over the noodles to some customers, luckily, he fell but the food didn't fall at least, not on him. The customers were patient and kind enough to wait for another serving of noodles, only after scolding Saint for his clumsiness.

He was trying hard for this year to be different. He wanted to have a friend or someone around to hang out with. He knew he has a rough life but he still managed to pull through, finally the debt got paid, he could cut down on working every day after school but about the gang fights, he avoid the lanes he knew could get him into trouble. He just wanted a peaceful life, perhaps he did have it in school being isolated by the whole student body but he did envy those who had things to do after school other that work. Like hanging out at the park, just lazing together in the library. Well, hopefully this year will change.

"Let's try not to be late"

He whispered softly to himself and said a quick prayer for a better school year before closing his eyes to sleep.

Well, perhaps the prayer didn't work since he woke up late.

"Isn't 23:00 early enough to sleep? What is wrong with my body" Saint mumbled as he passed the school gate. Luckily for him, he reached school barely on time. He ran the whole way through, perhaps might have used the back alleys where some gangs were but well, he was running like a maniac since he was late. He forgot if he heard someone shouting at him or people chasing after him, but all he knew he passed the gate like it was the finishing line. He was able to catch his breath slowly as he walked up the stairs to his classroom. He opened the door and searched for an empty seat. The seats are all filled up except for the one by the window. Fourth column, on the third row.

He made his way there, it will be only some minutes before the homeroom teacher came in. He was still sweating heavily, he did had quite a workout running in the hot weather just now. As he put his bag down on the table and sat down, he heard a small voice.

"Hey, you are on time"

He turned to the voice, lifting his eyebrows at the guy that was seated next to him.

Brown eyes, soft smile, he looks very nonchalant for someone who is trying to talk to him. To be honest, he looks abit too handsome to be in the same orbit as Saint, like isn't this how those actors are supposed to look like?

Perhaps Saint was starting too long that made the pretty boy chuckled softly.

"Damn, did you just came out of a shower haha"

Saint thought the boy looked so much more eternal with that laugh. He felt a tug from the corner of his mouth and replied.

"Well I just finish a marathon just to come here on time"

The boy then reached for his bag at the side of his table. He pulled out a small white towel and handed it over to Saint with a smirk.

"Here, use this, good job getting here on time"

Saint look at the towel and back at the boy. He furrowed his eyebrows - who is the boy and why is he so nice? Students are not usually this nice to him. He looked at the boy intently, and let out a huge-

"Huh?"

The boy lifted his eyebrow, his smile stretching into a bigger smile seeing Saint's confused face. He then shook his head and placed the towel on Saint's table.

"Just use this to wipe your sweat, no biggie"

Saint stared at the towel on his table.

This must be a prank. Who does this.

He looked back at the boy who is now facing the front, busy arranging the pens in his pencil case. Before he could even grab the towel and placed it back on the owner's table, the teacher came in.

So the towel was Saint's to use for now.

"Shin Naruebet?"

"Here"

Saint turned as Shin raised his hand confident, putting it down after the teacher gave him a nod.

So, this is Shin.

Saint knew Shin, at least from whatever he overheard from the previous class and what he had noticed about him.

Shin, captain of the football team, grades wise - he is slightly above average, he does goes missing from school on some days but they said it usually because he had some family problems to settle. Other than that, he seems to be the heartthrob of the school, except… he is kinda clumsy. He kicked the ball to the opposite direction and scored a goal against his team ( Don't worry, Shin redeemed himself by conceding two more goals on his own, he was super cool that time, at least to Saint), he accidentally broke a beaker during science class because he shook the beaker abit too hard - he thought it was the best way to mix the chemicals together (Saint thought the same because he had broken one before with the same method. But despite that, Saint got a C while Mr Shin got a B+). There were more stories of Shin's clumsiness, but Saint guess that is why he is well-liked in the school. He would apologised softly and tried to make things up as soon as possible if there is a fight or argument. Despite this, people tend to be wary of Shin since he looked fierce at first glance, he had this unbothered face -but once you talk to him, you get to see his clumsy side. At least, that is what they say and what Saint believes so. Other than that, he does noticed Shin taking care of the flowers in the school garden after class. It wasn't hard to miss, just lone student talking to the school's secluded garden, saying "Good job today" every Wednesday - Saint didn't mean to remember it, but he did had a previous encounter with Shin before.

Saint then recalled vaguely he saw Shin talking to a particular plant at the garden for the first time. He didn't mean to notice, just that he wasn't having a great day and wanted to kill some time at school before heading to his part time job right after. He just happened to walk into a small little area of the school - which was the school garden. The school garden wasn't really a garden, it was just a small plot of soil with plants and flowers growing. Saint didn't think much of the garden until he saw someone crouching down, watering a small area of the soil with his plastic bottle. The kind you buy at the vending machine for cheap. He stood quietly behind the student, he assumed since well the person did wear the uniform. Then, he heard a voice.

"Here, your daily dose of water, be good today okay"

Saint looked around panicked, thinking someone was talking to him.

"Wait, water?" He frowned as he turned back to the student.

He watched as the guy gently patted the soil, making his hands dirty. He patted off the dirt from his hands and continued on talking.

"You know, I did well on a test today! But I also happened to have fallen down, but then, I am here, so today was on average, okay so far"

He raised his right eyebrow and stifled a chuckle, finding the actions of the student strangely odd (talking to a plant) but adorable.

As if on que, the student might have heard him and was looking around. Saint decided to hide, but honestly, it was hard to find in this small garden but he was glad he was able to hide behind a wall. He wasn't able to see the student, but he waited for around 20 seconds before peeking out from the wall to look at the student.

There he was able to see his side view, he had his hands clasped into a prayer stance and his eyes closed. Saint noticed his bag at his side, that had a small soccer ball keychain.

"I hope there are not ghosts around me, please protect me, protect Shin please"

Saint covered his mouth, holding back on laughing at the cute prayer.

So, this was the rumoured Shin.

For Saint, without the rumours, the first encounter he had remembered he had with Shin was that he was a goofy and odd person, but was undeniably kind and soft-hearted. Rumours are true, but Saint knows, this is the real Shin that he was able to see with his own eyes.

Everything that went bad that day for Saint disappeared, seeing this boy being like this just made his day better.

He tried to recall what happened afterwards but nothing came up, it could either be he ran away or something happened but his mind buried that memory deep, deep in this brain that he needed more time to recall.

He didn't realised he was staring at Shin until he noticed Shin looking up from his notebook to him. He blinked, feeling alittle flustered he got caught staring at him. Shin gave him a small smile before moving his left hand on his table, pointing to the front.

Saint internally "Oh"-ed and quickly turned to the teacher, who seemed to just look up from her attendance sheet to find the rascal who didn't respond.

"Yea yea, ah here"

"Good, finally responding after I shouted your name for the third time"

Saint sheepishly grinned as the teacher gave him a quick glare and moved on to the next student.

He then felt Shin looking at him and turned.

"Feeling abit better Saint?"

Saint blinked.

There was finally someone who bothered to talk to him. Who didn't run away or avoided him. Who perhaps did not listen to the rumours about him. And just decided to talk to him like a normal student. Saint still find this hard to believe, then again Shin is known as someone who is really kind-hearted and a gentleman by the whole student body. He is someone who couldn’t stand seeing a student being treated unfairly or poorly.

He has to be someone like that right, that is why he is so nice to Saint right now.

The guy is even kind to plants.

"Then, it wouldn’t hurt to just be friends with him right?" Saint thought. "I finally have someone to talk to at least"

Saint looked at Shin, honestly, he thinks he used up all his luck for the year to be able to be seated next to Shin. The one who initiated talking to him, the one who lend a towel to him, the one who told him "Good Job" for just being able to get to school on time. All these had made Saint's heart warmer, it feels good to have someone's attention and also to be cared for. Even if it is something small like this, it means a lot to Saint.

Saint placed the towel down and replied.

"Yea, I am"

"That's great!" Shin smiled sweetly and Saint's eyes widened, seeing Shin giving him a small wink.

"Keep the towel for today"

Shin then turned to the front, paying attention to the teacher.

Saint malfunctioned. Shin just gave him the cutest wink and that smile.

Saint believed his prayer is working right now.

The weirdest thing was Shin did not ask for the towel back the next day, Saint was actually planning on giving it back. They were having small talks - by that, meaning just asking about how is school and what is homework. It was usually Shin starting it, like the first day. Everytime Saint came early to school, before Shin arrived- Shin would greet him with "Not bad, Saint, good job". Saint would smiled as Shin ruffled his hair abit and sat down beside him. Saint froze at the touch every time, not noticing his smile widening and his face turning red. Well, thanks to this, Saint's attendance rate improved, he hasn't been late and keeps coming to school. To the point the teacher commented "Nice to see you doing, Saint".

Despite that, Saint still held onto Shin's small towel.

He would have given it back if Shin ask for it, but he didn't. Even after some days even. It has been 2 weeks since Shin gave Saint the towel.

But for some reason, he held onto it instead, kept it in his bag's front pocket bringing it to school every day without fail. He did not know why, he felt he could use a towel anyway.

And also, maybe he wanted a keepsake from Shin for now, at least until Shin ask for it back.

"Thanks Shin" He whispered softly to himself before opening up his book.

For a moment, Saint forgot that he had a bad reputation at school, like schoolmates are not avoiding him on purpose or whenever he try to do something helpful like pick up a forgotten wallet, they would cowered in fear and whispered a quick "thanks" and ran away from him. When he tried to ask what was the homework or what did he miss out, they would just apologise to him "Sorry sorry, nothing is wrong" and ran away before giving him an answer. Seems like they didn't even hear what he was trying to say at all. Luckily enough, there was a small part of the whiteboard, listed there were the homework or chapters they went through the previous day. Saint was lucky he noticed it, he was quite oblivious though - he only noticed it after he was on duty to clean the classroom. But he owe that small part of the whiteboard a lot; Saint was quite forgetful each day, but he made it through the year thanks to whoever suggested the class to do this "Things to Note" section.

He remembered his place in school as he overheard Shin's friends talking about him. This was after 2 weeks since school started. They were at Shin's table, and it was break time. It is up to their own freewill to do whatever they want, but they chose to gossip about him - right beside him - when he can hear it despite them whispering about it. He didn't hear Shin talking or participating though, until one of them directed a question to him.

"Yo Shin, aren't you being abit too nice?"

Saint gulped.

"Huh?"

"You were being very friendly with Saint, with the towel"

"Ah, yea, he was sweating a lot, so-"

"Didn't you heard us? Don't you know Saint is a gangster?"

There was a pause. Saint had forgotten everyone did stay away from him for this reason. It is not true, he isn't a gangster, he just had some run-ins with the gangs or misfits, you call them, in school. Saint hadn't had the heart to turn away from a kid getting bullied and rushed in, but since then, he was on the radar for these bullies. It happened countless of times, but he guessed the complains from school and some of those bullies made him "bad person". He didn't know why people misunderstood his intentions though, but it was hard enough to clear up especially when he was busy and rarely in school. It seemed like every day he went to school, there was always a fight he is involved in. But that was the past, he stopped. It doesn't help that gangs outside of school was aware of him too, then again it is not that Saint wanted to get involved, he just happened to for the sake of his justice you know. But he is not a gangster no?

Gangster of justice, maybe.

But apparently, the whole student body did not understand justice.

Saint braced himself for Shin's answer, closing his eyes tightly, thinking "Ah shoot, there goes me getting close to Shin".

"Saint?"

Saint opened his eyes, and turned to Shin's voice. He was surprised Shin was looking at him, along with his group.

"Saint, are you a gangster?"

"Huh?"

Saint frowned, Shin was asking him this question? Does he not take the side of his supposed "friends"?

Saint did not want Shin to misunderstand him so he answered honestly.

"I am not a gangster"

Silence.

Saint wasn't comfortable with how the group was looking at him, he was thinking Shin doesn't believe him. Shin stayed silent but he didn't look angry or that he doesn't believe Saint - it is more of he was waiting for Saint to elaborate abit more. Sensing this, Saint then spoke again in his attempt to explain to him why he had this reputation.

"I think I am not, but I can hit people hard, you know. I am kinda strong-"

Saint gestured, fake throwing punches but he accidentally knocked over his waterbottle on his table. Saint was about to swear as he watched helplessly at his waterbottle dropping to the floor.

"Wow… that might have impressed him huh?" He thought sarcastically  as he looked at Shin, he was looking down at the fallen waterbottle and turned to Saint.

Saint gave him a sheepish smile, his hands still in place at a boxing position.

Next thing he knew, he heard Shin burst out laughing. He blinked at Shin, not realising he was smiling at Shin who was holding his stomach from laughing so hard. Saint could see the group tried to hold their laughter.

"Hey,your waterbottle -" Shin's laughter died down and he went to pick up Saint's waterbottle. He placed it on the owner's table and leaned back on his chair, giving Saint a small smile.

""Ah, so you are not a gangster"

Shin turned to his group.

"See, so Saint is just a normal person, like us" Shin declared, looking at each person in the group. He then stood up and nodded to the door.

"Let’s go, time to eat"

Everyone in his group went out of the door quickly. Saint heard Shin heaved a sigh and watched as he turned to him.

"See ya around then, Saint" Shin waved at him. "Have a good lunch"

Saint swore he felt his heart skipped a beat seeing Shin's cute wink. He watched as Shin turned his back and headed to the door where his group of friends are waiting.

Saint felt he might have just a little crush on Shin.

Just a small crush on him.

Yea, just a small crush.

He definitely did not rush home, right to his bed and squealed into his pillow at how cute Shin was.

The crush slowly grew, with Shin casually being the only one talk to Saint in class, the one who ask Saint to clear his name whenever his friends brought up any rumours about Saint. Saint got acquainted with some of Shin's friends of course, but they don’t talk much. It was usually the group talking with Shin, and Shin asking for Saint's inputs. Like when they were discussing about a delicious spot to go after school, after everyone pitch in their opinions, Shin would turn to Saint and ask "What do you think?", Saint would say his piece and Shin would go with whatever Saint said. Even when, Shin doesn't really agree or like the idea.

"I like the place right by the mall near our school"

"Ah right, me too"

"I like the mall there, the arcade there is awesome"

"Ah I see, I like that too"

"I like to play tennis"

"Ah, same"

"Shin you don't play tennis"

Shin's friend cut in.

"You don’t know me"

Saint held a chuckle but couldn't help to smile at Shin looking away, clearly lying.

"I think Final Destination is super cool!"

"Ah…." There was a pause. "Me too"

"Shin are you sure"

"Yea" Shin nodded."It's cool-"

"Aren't you scared of these kind of movies"

"People can enjoy new things"

"How about going to a haunted house then?" Shin frowned at his friend's suggestion.

"Nah man that is not fun"

"Aow, it's not, but you find Final Destination cool no, horror movies too?"

"They are different things" Shin nodded, folding his arms pouting at his friend.

Saint shook his head seeing Shin's pouting. When Shin met Saint's eyes, Shin turned away as Saint laughed.

"What was Shin on about haha."

It doesn't matter if Shin is scared of thriller or horror movies, to Saint, Shin is already so cool, and adorable.

"I like yogurt place there"

"Me too" Shin perked up, smiling.

"The banana flavour is nice"

"Ah yeah, I love it too"

Saint chuckled as he watched Shin's eyes sparkled at the sound of "banana", he lied - he said it cause he saw Shin eating the yogurt cutely before alone. He prefers strawberries.

But Saint doesn't care, Shin looks super happy now.

Saint noticed the wallet from the girl's pocket dropped to the ground. He knew he had to do the right thing, he always did but he always get accused to stealing the money or taking the wallet. They assumed he wanted to act like a hero. Funny, Saint thought, just cause someone known to be bad tries to do something good seems bad anyway.

But Saint's heart is uneasy, he had to do it. He was always looked down as a gangster anyway, what harm could this do?

"Hey erm-"

The girl turned and jerked away from Saint.

"OH, Sorry, sorry"

Saint's heart fell, seems like it is useless to do good anyway. Before Saint could continue, Shin appeared beside him, with his hands in his pockets.

"He wants to tell give you your wallet back"

"Oh Shin!" The girl looked happier now. Figures, Saint thought. He couldn't help feel relieved Shin was there trying to back him up though.

"Did you take her money?" The girl's friend pointed at Saint. He lifted his eyebrow at the finger.

"No"

"I don' trust you" Saint sighed internally, is he going to argue that he was just trying to return this wallet. He doesn't need the money, he works part-time, despite him being broke too. But, in the name of justice!

"I didn' take anything, here take the wallet"

"I still don't trust you" The girl stepped in, ganging up to Saint. Saint felt defeated and internally sighed. "In the name of justice huh"

"Just take your wallet from him, I saw him"

Saint turned to Shin, surprised to see him looking frustrated. Shin was usually so patient though, Saint thought. Shin let out a small scoff before continuing.

"You can check the wallet first before accusing him of doing anything bad" Shin sighed and shook his head. " He was nice enough to give your friend's wallet back, you know, he isn't such a bad person"

"Ah sure, sorry Shin"

"Saint, his name is Saint"

"So-Sorry Saint"

This happened maybe, 5 times or more. To be honest, it happened so many times that once they saw Shin beside Saint, before Saint could explained himself, they just took their wallet, handkerchief or whatever things they drop and took off.

Saint had to internally thank Shin, this saved him the hassle of trying to explain himself everytime.

It was after class on a Wednesday, Saint was packing his things slowly when Shin tapped on his table gently.

"Hey, why don't you speak up abit more?"

"What do you mean"

"They seem to have a bad impression of you, and you are silent about it"

"People are quick to judge though, they never tell me speak, just ran away, but kinda cool no? No one wants to mess with me hehe" Saint said jokingly, acting cool in front of Shin. He noticed Shin didn't move, just staring at him with his brown eyes quietly. "Is he really worried about me?"" Saint thought.

"You are pretty positive about this" Saint shrugged, he wanted to say something to lift up the mood abit. He didn't like that Shin seemed to be worried, or he sensed him to be worried over him. Saint wouldn't want to assume.

"How about your friends?" Shin whispered, looking at Saint carefully. Saint shook his head.

"I don’t have any. I just keep to myself mostly, I am busy after school usually"

"Oh" Saint panicked abit, Shin sounded so dejected and even looked so sad

"Ah well" Saint tried to lighten the mood abit, trying to explain more. He wasn't sure why Shin was looking at the ground. "I have some work to tend to after school, I don't have time-"

"So you are not free to hang out after school today?" Shin looked up into Saint's eyes.

Saint blinked.

Why does it feel like Shin was pleading with him?

Saint can't say no to Shin, especially with those eyes and that cute pout.

"Ah"

"I am asking if we could hang" Shin spoke up, watching Saint's face carefully. He faked a cough as he turned away.

Saint was just there trying to process what is happening.

" Just us together- only if you are okay with it"

Saint was processing.

Just the two of them.

"Hang out-"

His group wouldn't be with them.

Just him and Shin.

"Yea,if you are free you know, it seems you are busy, it's okay if you feel uncomfortable, we don’t need to hang-"

"I want to" Saint spoke loudly, making Shin look at him. He might have been too enthusiastic but, come on, its a chance of a lifetime.

"I love to" Saint chuckled as he watched Shin's lips curled into a big smile. "Hang out"

Saint couldn't believe what he had gotten into.

Saint envisioned 'hanging out" to be something like - Shin and Saint to be playing games, eating together, going to karaoke or maybe just simply walking next to each other while their hands casually brushing each other.

He did not expect it to be on gardening duty with Shin though.

He wanted to be playful but knowing if they made a mess, they will need to take up more time to clean up which is tiring. But Saint didn't mind, he minded that there was a teacher watching them.

He was holding buckets of dirt, soil he meant, walking behind Shin. They had been helping to plant the small patches of dirt everywhere around the school, the trees all around here. The reason? Saint thought it was just punishment for him and Shin. Voluntary Punishment by Shin. Saint felt very tired, but they are finally at the last spot, the unofficial garden. The place where he first saw Shin. The teacher had left them, saying "ah Shin, I have some matters to attend, I entrust you with this garden alright". How convenient, Was Shin the president of the non-existent garden club? Saint sighed and placed the buckets down.

Shin turned hearing the sigh, seeing Saint folding his arms.

"Is this what you call hanging out?"

Shin blinked.

"Yea, why wouldn't it be?"

Saint frowned, despite how cute and handsome Shin is, man - Saint still can't get angry at him. 

"Isn't this just free labour for you"

Shin found Saint pouting at him adorable and let out a small chuckle. Shin can see why Saint thought like that.

But he was quick to feign innocence instead. 

"Aow"

"Aow" Saint imitated Shin.

"Well, we could have played football together, but practice is on Thursdays" Shin reasoned and Saint frowned.

"So? We can just play it, you have the ball"

"But today is Wednesday, Saint" Saint couldn't believe what he is hearing, he was holding back curses, holding back throwing the bucket but seeing Shin looking at him so softly like that- he let out a small outburst instead.

"Okay?! So?" Saint raised his voice abit, hoping he didn't scare Shin off. Instead, Shin laughed at Saint's outburst, it might be one of the rare times he seen Saint express so much emotion - right now, he knows Saint was just frustrated that he was roped in to do some gardening against his will.

"It's the day I talk to my plants" Shin gestured to the small garden before him. Saint sighed internally, knowing how Shin was with his plants. Seeing Shin so happy looking at the plants, he couldn’t help but chuckled.

"And this isn't strange?"

"Actually, I wanted to introduce them to you" Shin crouched down and looked up at Saint.

"Oh" Saint stood closer to Shin, looking down at the plants.

"Why?"

"Hmmm" Shin pondered for a while.

"They should know the existence of a brave and kind soul named Saint" Shin let out a big smile as he looked over to Saint before looking down at his plants.

Saint's heart fluttered.

That might be the most sweetest and romantic thing Saint has ever heard (for now). Though, Shin only did tell this to the plants.

Shin watched as Saint bit back a smile, pointing to the plants before him.

"So what are they going to do about it, give me more oxygen?"

Shin chuckled and nudged Saint lightly.

"Aow, they will become your friends too"

"Ah plant friends, just what I need"

Saint joked, laughing as he turned to see Shin pouting at him. How….cute.

"Hey, be nice"

"Ah ah ah" Saint coaxed, pointed to the plant right in front of him.

"Do my plant friend have a name" Shin nodded, pointed at the pink flower before him.

"Yea, this one is Neona"

"Neona, hello" No, this is not weird, greeting a flower is not weird. Saint then pointed at the blue flower next to it.

"How about this one"

"I haven't name it yet"

"Oh so you plan to name all the plants the whole garden?"

Shin nodded.

"You can help name them too"

Saint bit back a smile.

"Ah sure, how about you start thinking for this one first then"

Saint smiled widely as he watched Shin ponder about what to name the plant. He found himself treasuring every moment with Shin - taking in Shin's expressions and his slowed reactions. Naming this whole small garden might take years, if Shin had to think very long for the names. But if it means Saint gets to spend time with Shin more, Saint didn't mind.

Not one bit.

It only been a month since school started, Saint felt like it's been a dream so far.

He really looked forward to his hangouts with Shin now.

School was getting so much more fun.

At the window overlooking the garden, a student watched Saint and Shin talking like they had been friends for years.

He scoffed.

"What is so good about Saint?"

Saint and Shin were on their way home together, after their hangout with the plants. Saint could feel Shin slowing down next to him but he didn't spoke about it. Saint just walked abit slowly, trying to match Shin's pace.

Until Shin called out.

"Saint?"

"Yea?"

"Could we hang out again?"

Saint turned around, happy to see Shin looking at him with his pleading eyes again, hoping Saint would say yes.

"Like today?"

"Yes" Shin answered quickly.

"Maybe other places too, like cafes, arcades or anything" Shin spoke, rubbing the back of his head nervously.

"Only if you want" Shin looked up at Saint again.

"I really had a lot of fun today" Shin spoke sincerely, giving Saint a small smile.

For the first time, someone wanted to hang out with him, again.

And Saint felt the same, and also felt his heart melting over the simple thought.

He felt so happy someone found it to be fun being with him.

Especially since that person is Shin.

Saint gave a huge grin before chuckling as he nodded enthusiastically.

"Yes" Shin looked relieved hearing the yes from Saint. He broke into a wide smile and ran up to bump shoulders with Saint.

"Great, we have a lot to do!"

Saint watched on as Shin talked about going to the movies, library and to the playground- for the swing.

"It is always a yes for you" Saint thought, grinning widely.

Then Shin almost hit the lamppost, Shin ducking so dramatically and placing his hands on his heart. He then looked at Saint with his eye widened. Saint would have punch the lamppost for almost hurting Shin.

"Woah"

"Shin be careful"

"I am! It is the lamppost"

Saint chuckled as Shin pointed at the lamppost jokingly, laughing along with Saint.

Saint instinctively then switched places with Shin, slowly moving to the left so Shin would move closer to the pavement instead. No lamppost would hit Shin for now. Saint did not know why he felt protective of Shin, but he didn't mind it.

As long as Shin is okay, Saint is okay.

Saint stared fondly at Shin beside him, who is now looking out for lampposts.

As long as Shin is okay.

Chapter Text

Shin was ready, he was dressed up in his school uniform, with his bag in hand. He was ready to leave the house. Until he called out his sisters' name.

"Film? ChingChing?"

No response.

Shin rushed towards their bedroom, noticing his Mum and Film sitting at the bedside.

"ChingChing?" He sat beside them, sighing as he looked at his littlest sister sleeping, with a wet towel spread on her forehead.

"Shin, Film, you guys better go to school"

"I am taking care of her today"

Shin looked at his mother.

"You need to work right? You took a lot of leaves already"

"But Shin-"

"I haven't miss school at all so far" Shin shrugged and turned to Film. "Plus Film has an important presentation today so, it should be fine"

Shin's mother had to give in. Shin was right, she had been taking a lot of leaves lately - she was technically on a verge of losing her job at this point. She also didn't want to take advantage of her boss's kindness. It was just that she had a lot things to settle - with her being down with a bad flu for a week, her mother and neighbour needing her help, and also needing to pick up ChingChing whenever she could. She wasn't getting enough rest, it seemed it finally clear up, she could go to work normally but this happened.

Film was more than willing to stay too, but she needed to focus on her school. She was enrolled in a more prestigious school, being lucky to get a scholarship there.

Then we have Shin, who was the only son but felt he had to be the protector of these three ladies. Shin was always there to help but of course, being his own mother, she felt so bad.

Shin should be enjoying and going to school.

Shin always said " I enjoy helping out my family too".

Though this time, she did noticed Shin look brighter. Brighter meant that he was in a better mood, happy and mostly smiling. She had this nagging feeling it was someone in school - right after the first day of school of the year, Shin came home in an ultimate happier mood. And it continued till now.

She hoped Shin's mood would be okay if he didn't go to school today.

She is entrusted her son for today.

Shin sat beside the sleeping ChingChing alone after Film and their mother left. He made sure he had ChingChing's medication ready, her favourite soft toy beside him, extra blanket ready. After ensuring everything was ready and prepared, he looked around.

Yeap, he was all alone now.

"Uwah" Shin let out a sad sound softly, looking at ChingChing carefully before putting his head on the pillow next to her.

"I can't see Saint today"

Saint was on time again. Or as expected. He was already seated, ready for school. It has been a six weeks so he hoped this new month will be good too. He was ready to 'hangout' again, ready to receive Shin's morning greeting and smile. It was his motivation to woke up each day to come to school without fail. His parents noticed the change in Saint too, but they didn't mention much - just thinking their son is on the right track right now.

However, minutes passed.

Saint felt he was waiting longer than usual.

Then, the school bell rang.

School was starting very soon.

Saint's heart dropped but he kept quiet, his eyes was glued onto the class's front door.

"Now class attendance" Saint kept quiet as the teacher called out the names. He voiced out his name once he got called.

He felt his heart breaking, eyes still on the class's front door.

"Okay, everyone present" The teacher spoke, turning to whiteboard as she wrote down the today's date.

"Except Shin"

Saint's heart shattered.

Where did Shin go?

"P'Shin!"

Shin was staring at his phone. Shin had just finished texting his friends about his whereabouts. He was being vague in his replies until he realised that he didn't have Saint's number.

Saint!

He physically face-palmed himself, how could he forgot to exchange numbers with him. He wanted to ask his friends for Saint's number but, they wouldn't have his number anyway. How could he forgot to ask for his number. Shin thought back, to him, there didn't seem a need to get Sain't number since he always see him the next day at school. They always saw each other without fail.

This one the first time Shin didn't attend school for this year. And also the longest time he had continuously attend school without fail. Saint too, Shin believed, he wasn't sure why but Saint kept coming to school, despite him knowing Saint would disappeared sometimes - last year.

This was a new year so he didn't think much of it, perhaps Saint wanted to change to be a better student you know.

But argh, Shin regretted not being able to get Saint's number. He can't deny, it felt alittle lonely without Saint around. His quiet presence was enough for Shin, his sudden outburst of energies and cute reactions always made his days. There was always something to smile about each day.

He felt a tug on his shirt and quickly turned to ChingChing. It was the evening already and ChingChing seemed to have felt a lot better.

"Yes" Shin answered. "Sorry sweetie"

"Are you okay"

"Huh?" Shin lifted an eyebrow at his youngest sister. "I am okay, why did you ask"

"You look sad"

"Aow, no, I am not sad"

"You do! It seemed like you kept staring at your phone" ChingChing pointed at his phone, pouting at him. "It is like you are missing someone"

"ChingChing"

"Ohh" ChingChing smiled brightly at Shin, tugging on his shirt. "You know what would make you feel better?"

"What is it" Shin did not like this.

"Ice cream!"

Shin frowned.

"ChingChing, you are sick!"

"I feel better now, come on please"ChingChing whined. "I have been stuck at home long enough"

"ChingChing-"

"We share one ice cream"

Shin sighed, smiling in defeat as his cute youngest sister pulled on his shirt, making the ridiculous cute pout. She knew that was his weakness.

"Fine come on, this is a quick one!"

The day went by, uneventful. Saint kept to himself, of course, he only did talk to Shin anyway. But damn, his absence was felt heavily even in class. The class felt too quiet.

Damn, where is Shin?

It felt like torture honestly, the way Saint kept looking at Shin's empty chair every 10 seconds.

It frustrated Saint to no end that Shin wasn't coming any time soon, and he banged his head on his table gently.

"Argh" Saint mumbled to himself.

"Why do I miss u so much argh, it's embarrassing"

"P'Shin, they had been staring at us"

Shin was throwing away the ice cream stick and turned to the group leaning against the lamppost opposite the shop.

Oh.

It's them.

Shin sighed, really now isn't the best time to show up. He knew they had been looking at them ever since they came down to the shop. If they leave, they would followed them home and also it would meant trouble for him. Them secluded - him with ChingChing facing off with this three-group membered gang, it wouldn't be nice at all.

Shin hoped there wouldn't be a fight happening.

Seemed very unlikely now.

"ChingChing, go and find a snack okay, wait for me at the cashier" Shin trusted the shop owner and the shop so he was able to let ChingChing go and choose what she wants to buy. After ChingChing left, he made his way towards the group of three, hands in his pockets. He tried to look abit smug, not to show he was intimidated by them. The group turned towards him, as if they were expecting him to come to them.

"Shin right? You are the dude that always hangs out with Saint"

The one he recognized as Jeng spoke. Shin tilted his head, looking questioningly at the three of them before answering.

"What's the problem?"

"Other than the fact that he is a real jerk, nothing" Shin cocked his eyebrow and clenched his fist. "He hasn't been around here lately"

"He's busy"

Jeng scoffed at Shin's nonchalant answer.

"Busy hanging out with you I guess"

Shin shrugged, folding his arms as Jeng stepped closer towards him.

"I have something to settle with him, he messed with one of my people before"

Shin knew who it was, he knew about the accident that got Saint suspended before. But he knew, Saint wasn't at fault.

These people were.

"And?"

"You need to ask Saint to come see me, I can't get hold of that dude"

Shin usually was never one to start a fight. He was usually the one intervening and to stop them. But this time, he couldn't back down from Jeng. There was no way he would let Saint to them, this would just led to Saint getting beaten by Jeng - again.

Shin knew, after what he was going to say, a fight was coming.

With Jeng's personality, it was definitely coming.

But he couldn't let Saint get hurt again.

"Leave Saint alone"

Shin said it out and clear, Jeng was surprised seeing the piercing glare he had hardened. The usually mild and peace-loving Shin standing his ground against him? Despite witnessing their hangout at the garden the other day, Jeng was still surprised how Shin was protecting Saint. They only got to know each other recently, he thought it would be an easy way to Saint through Shin. He knew Shin was a nice person in general but I guess to him, they are just bullies. Shin should know though, Saint messed with his gang once, Jeng was never letting him go. Shin seemed to have changed in Jeng's eyes, the change was quite drastic he felt but no one knew who Shin was before.

"Oh?" Jeng smirked, glancing at his right fist before looking at Shin. "What if I don't?"

Shin gulped but he remained composed. His glare was still on Jeng, no matter what, he wouldn’t back down.

He knew Saint didn't do anything wrong and Saint was his friend. He got fired up ever since Jeng mentioned Saint as a 'jerk', that was not true. Saint was never a jerk. Saint was maybe clumsy, slow, blunt but he was energetic, helpful, kind.

He hanged out with Saint, so he knew.

"You have to come through me first"

"You know what you are asking for Shin, it's been quite long isn't it" 

Shin remained quiet as he watched the other two people was closing in on him.

"You have said it pretty boy"

Shin closed his eyes briefly as he braced himself for a punch. But he knew what to expect next and he was ready, it had been a long time since he gotten into a fight, but he did made sure he knew how to retaliate the next time he happened to be involved in one.

"Mom, Film, ChingChing, Saint I'm sorry"  Shin thought."I'll be okay"

"Argh what have I gotten myself into now"

"Shin would come today right" Saint thought, as he sat down. He hyped himself up thinking Shin would be coming to school today. It had a full day of no Shin yesterday, Saint thought well, today should be the day Shin will get back no.

Then, the bell rang.

Saint sank into his seat.

No Shin again.

"Ah choo"

Saint sneezed and reached in to grab a tissue wipe away his snot, he did but he also felt something else. The towel Shin had gave him.

He paused for a while.

Shin.

He grabbed the tissue and wiped away his snot. He reached back into his bag with his clean hand and pulled out the towel. He looked at it and smiled, caressing it softly. Memories of the first day they met flooding his mind.

"He will be back soon"

Shin was quiet, watching as the doctor helped him with the bandages on his hand.

It was the next day, and he was in hospital. He looked at his family around him,ah he wasn't that injured. They wanted Doctor Jim to check on Shin one more time before he was deemed good enough to go to school the next day.

The fight, well.

Jeng deserved it.

He was here since yesterday, Doctor Jim said his injuries are minor but Shin still got a whole lecture on not to start fights and to take care of his sisters and mother. Shin sighed, he knew Doctor Jim was just worried but they are okay. Really okay. Shin had gotten into worst fights before anyway.

He was glad he left ChingChing at the store, at least the shopowner was with ChingChing. The fight that broke out caused a whole commotion and that caught the attention of ChingChing and the shopowner. Sea, the shopowner stepped in and broke up the fight,pulling Shin away. Jeng and his gang members fled, shouting "I will get you!". Shin just seemed satisfied seeing Jeng bleeding from his nose and bruises on his face.

"What are you doing to tell your school?"

"Accident"

Shin shrugged at his mother, before getting a light smack on the head from her.

"Still joking around Shin?"

"Shin" Shin sighed,looking at Film who looked very worried.

"I am fine, don't worry about it"

Shin was more worried about Saint now, he was already missing two days of school and Saint doesn't know why.

Suddenly he had an idea with a name popping in mind.

Namtan

Normally, Shin wouldn't ask anyone for help but, well, desperate time called for desperate measures.

"Film, could you help me out? You owe me one right"

Film looked at his dear brother suspiciously.

"What is it?"

Saint was actually loitering around today after class, honestly he couldn't believe his feet got him to the small garden he went the other day - he wanted to say Shin's garden since he only ever got to see Shin take care of it. He plopped down in front of the two plants, the ones with the pink and blue flowers.

"Hey it's me, Saint" Saint spoke before pouting.

"Could you tell your dad to come to school, it has been 2 days since he is gone"

Saint sighed, yes he is complaining to these plants. Complaining that he missed Shin around.

One day was torture enough.

Now two days?

Life was testing Saint.

The most logical way to know why Shin was missing was to ask his friends, but firstly, Saint did tried, but his friends only mentioned Shin might have things to do or was just sick. It seemed his friends don't even know the real reason he wasn't in school.

That was when Saint totally forgot to exchange phone numbers with Shin. And now, he is suffering.

In his defence, it was not like he had forgotten but it seemed it didn't seem to matter at that time. Shin was always there - in the morning, afternoon just next to him in class and after school, they would always "hang out". On days where Saint had to do some work or had to go home for dinner, Saint would volunteer to walk Shin to the nearby station or bus stop - just to spend some more time with him. There wasn't a need to text or call during that timing.

Saint sighed.

The last time they were able to hang out properly was last Wednesday.  Wednesdays has now been their scheduled garden hang out (date).

They were just sitting around, talking to each other while looking at the plants around the garden. The hangout couldn't have been more peaceful and fun.

"Hey Saint, you can talk to them you know" Saint turned to Shin, who was looking at the plants in front of them.

"Talk to who?"

"Your plant friends"

Saint chuckled.

"About what exactly?"

"Anything you want" Shin then turned to look at Saint with a small smile.

"If you ever feel lonely, or u need someone to listen, they are always here"

Saint froze, blinking at Shin who leaned closer to him. Shin paused for a moment, staring at Saint like he was searching for something in his eyes. Saint's eyes averted away but he could feel his face burning up for Shin's stare.

"I am always here to listen too"

Saint's eyes widened, head snapping to Shin who was still looking at him. He nodded slowly, eyes locked into Shin's brown eyes. He could feel his heartbeat beating so fast like he had run a marathon, damn does Shin want him dead?

"Okay"

Saint watched as Shin pulled back with a smile plastered on his face.

"Got it now Saint?"

"Got it"

So now, he found himself talking to the plants.

Then he felt a presence of someone behind moving.

Suspicious.

"Oh, who are you?"

Saint jolted at the voice and quickly stood up, turning around to see a lady standing near the wall.

They both kept silent for awhile.

Then, the lady smiled.

"Hey wait, Shin's friend?" She said cheerfully. "I am glad to see Shin finally brought a friend here"

"Huh, who is this lady" Saint thought, so far he hadn't seen anyone here except Shin.

The lady, who apparently seemed to have read his mind spoke up answering Saint's question.

"Name's Namtan, I am your senior, I am assuming you are in the same grade as Shin, nice to meet you"

"You know Shin?"

"Yea of course, Shin is popular, even if he doesn't know that he is."She shrugged." We are friends since junior high"

"Oh, I see"

"Why are you here by the way?"

"Just hanging out"

"Oh" Namtan chuckled.

"Huh, missing Shin aren't we?"

She looked at Saint who was looking everywhere and noticed his cheeks turning pink.

Oh, Namtan has a new entertainment in school.

But she was here to run an order. Duties as she would put it. 

Namtan cleared her throat before speaking up.

"If you need to know, Shin is coming back tomorrow, he had to take care of his little sister"

"Oh" Saint frowned, how does Namtan know about this?

"How do you know?"

"I just know"

Saint gulped.

He never seen her before, anywhere near Shin.

And suddenly she came here and tell him about Shin?

There was only one way she would know.

Namtan couldn't be.

Shin's girlfriend right?

Then how would he know about what Shin was doing?

"Are you" Saint spoke up, his heart breaking as he asked.

"His girlfriend?"

"Huh"

 Saint blinked, watching Namtan laugh so hard she had to steady herself using the wall near her.

"Awww cute" Namtan was wiping her tears as Saint watched her with a frown. "But no, I like someone else, not him though, we are just schoolmates"

"Oh, but how-"

"Ah I better go now" Namtan lifted an eyebrow at Saint. No need to explain further, this was going to be fun with Shin comes around.

"Someone has asked me to tell you he is coming back tomorrow"

"Huh"

Namtan shrugged and waved him off.

"See you around Saint"

Saint stood there, dumbfounded.

How did she know his name.

Who is she?

It would be a lie to say Saint didn’t look forward to school the next day. It would also be a lie to say the main reason was that Shin is coming back, hearing from the informant, Namtan. Saint figured Namtan know his name because of Shin, though his heart felt warm knowing Shin cared enough to let him know about him, he don't want to be carry away with it. And, Namtan, can she be trusted too? But if she is friends with Shin, then it means she can be trusted.

Saint stepped in the school grounds and looked around.

He felt his heart stopped momentarily.

A smile crept up on his face as he ran towards the familiar figure standing by the tree.

"Shin!"

"Saint?"

Shin's voice!

"Shin!"

"Oh Saint! Hello" Shin waved enthusiastically, putting on his biggest smile for Saint. Saint came running, like a cute puppy wagging his tail towards his treats (Shin).

"You are in school!" Saint noticed something odd - He noticed Shin's hand has plasters all over. The last time he saw Shin, Shin was alright, but Saint didn't know why, it screams that Shin got into a fight. "Are you okay?"

"Aow, didn't I ask someone to tell you what happened to me?"

"Namtan?"

That girl.

"Yea, didn't she come and find you? Sorry I didn't tell you personally or earlier, a lot of things just came up"

"Namtan…yea the senior right"

"She is an old friend, my senior back in junior high"

"Ah"

Saint was staring at Shin's injured hand, but in his mind was thinking about how close he was with Namtan. Just an old friend right?

"You okay Saint?" Shin furrowed his eyebrows as he pointed at the plasters on his hand "Ah I had some accident, I'm fine really"

"Hmm"

Shin sighed, Saint was worried wasn't he?

Shin ruffled Saint's hair, before wrapping an arm around his shoulders and dragged him to the classroom. Saint was smiling - damn he missed the time Shin ruffling his hair like these. 2 days seemed like a long time ago. Today, the hair ruffling feels abit more special and Saint was just happy around it.

Shin was finally back.

But, Saint couldn't help but feel Shin was hiding something from him about those the injury he had. Saint noticed, of course he did. Saint let it go for now, perhaps Shin did just fell down. Though, the injury didn't seem like it would have been from a fall. He didn't dare to ask but vowed to keep an careful eye on Shin.

He then recalled.

"Ah then, we need to exchange phone numbers" Saint whipped out his phone quickly, pressing the buttons to get to the "Add Contact" function. Shin took out his phone calmly, studying Saint's actions.

"Hey, I am still here" Shin spoke." We can take this slowly"

"No" Saint frowned and stared at Shin with worried eyes. Shin was taken back, he looked down at Saint's hand around his wrist and up to Saint again.

"Saint-"

 "I didn't know what happened to you, I was worried and all you know" Saint blurted out as Shin listened to him quietly. Shin tilted his head slightly, starting at Saint who kept talking. He was worried about Saint too, but it seemed Saint was alright.

 "and I missed you too and-"

Saint paused.

What did he say?

"Saint" Shin blinked, and as if he heard what Saint was thinking. "What did you say"

"Oh" Saint rubbed his hair nervously, even pulling back his hand that was holding onto Shin's wrist.

"Nothing" Saint slapped Shin's shoulder lightly, Shin smirked.

"Sure, nothing"

 "Nothing, just come let's exchange phone numbers"

They exchanged numbers, with Saint praying inside that Shin didn't hear what he blurt about missing him and with Shin internally jumping for joy knowing Saint missed him.

"Ah it’s done, let's go" Saint gestured to the class and took a few steps in front. He stopped, sensing Shin wasn't moving.

"Shin? We should go" Saint called out, looking at Shin puzzledly as Shin just stood there,smiling at him. Shin nodded and walked towards Saint, stopping by to whisper to Saint before he walked slowly up to class.

"I missed you too"

Saint stood there for a good minute. He couldn’t help the blush creeping onto his face as he did a small jump to express his joy.

"He miss me!" Saint shouted internally before he tried to calm himself down and make his way up to class.

Damn, it feels so good that Shin is bad in school.

Little did he know, Shin happened to turn behind for a short moment, witnessing the cute jump of joy and went to the class, smirking to himself. 

Saint had always been this cute.

Shin and Saint would meet up before going up to class together. It was their little routine, to wait by the lone tree in front of the courtyard, either Shin or Saint would be too early, but they would always wait for each other before going up to class. This just started from the day Shin came back from his short absence.

However the next week, while they were making their way up, that lady Saint saw the other day appeared, blocking their way up the stairs.

"Namtan?" Shin sounded confused to see her.

"Why hello Shin"

"What are you doing here"

"You ask me for a favour, and I am asking for one back"

"Couldn't you just text me"

Namtan's eyes flickered to Saint and back to Shin. A mischievous plan came to her mind, smiling deviously at Saint whose eyes stayed on the frowning Shin.

"Isn't it better to ask face to face"

"Huh, Namtan what is wrong with you"

Saint didn't realise he was frowning, his mouth forming a small pout as he watched Namtan place her arm around Shin.

Saint knew, maybe it was jealousy.

Maybe Saint didn't have another friend around.

Maybe not, since this wasn't the same feeling he had when Shin's friend, Thiu bumped lightly to Shin in class. Or when, Earn laughed and had a habit to hit Shin's arm lightly, to which Shin would rubbed his hand over quietly when they weren't looking. It wasn't the same feeling as how his group was around him.

But he knew, this might be abit excessive, Shin is his friend, even if he had some feelings. And Namtan and Shin are just 'schoolmates'. Though it doesn't seem like just 'schoolmates' to him.

Maybe abit closer than schoolmates.

The bell rang.

Saint thanked the skies, sun and moon.

An excuse to leave.

"Shin" Saint called out loudly, ignoring Namtan's glare as he looked directly into Shin's eyes. "School is going to start"

"Wait Shin" Saint felt his heart broke alittle, watching as Namtan pulled Shin closer to her. "You promised to help me"

Despite it looked clearly like Shin was trying his best to pull away from Namtan, Saint grew silent.

"Now isn't the right time to help you know"

"I-I" Saint spoke up, biting his lips as his eyes stayed on the ground. "I get going first then, don't want to get scolded haha"

Saint turned around and was about to take off to class quickly - so he doesn't need to see someone getting closer than needed to Shin when Shin spoke.

"Wait up, let's go together"

Saint looked up at Shin, watching as he pulled himself away from Namtan with a light shove. Namtan looked stunned as she was pushed aside, oh ho, this was out of character for Shin.

"Sorry Phi! I really need to go,  I will help you, don’t worry" Shin bowed for at least 3 times as he spoke. He then quickly ran beside Saint, casually reaching for his hand. Saint's breath hitched as Shin grabbed his hand and dragged him to his class.

Namtan let out a small smirk watching him. This was a very interesting development.

"You better keep your word!"

"Bye P'Namtan, I help you out later" He shouted behind, waving to her before turning to Saint.

"Let's run haha, wouldn't want to be late right" Saint nodded, but instead of Shin leading the way, Saint was the one dragging Shin along to their classroom on the third floor. Saint was holding Shin's hand, that was all Mr Saint could think about. He didn’t know how he got this burst of energy from ( he did and the main reason is cause of Mr Shin choosing him over Namtan (or school attendance) but Saint was taking it as a win anyway) but he was really ecstatic. He heard Shin's giggles behind him, and glanced over to see Shin's big smile.

Damn.

He thanked the school bell once again.

It had been a good morning.

An extremely good morning.

"Wait wait haha slow down abit Saint!" Saint slowed down, but only because they were right in front of the class. Saint still on a high with Shin beside him, holding hands and walked into the classroom.

Without thinking, he shouted.

"Good morning shining world!"

A pause.

He froze as he looked in front. His classmates were all staring at him confusedly.

"Ah"

Saint looked around, well he made a fool of himself now. He then remembered Shin. They were still holding hand, he could feel it. He doesn't dare to look at him, damn would Shin be embarrassed? Of course he would be right - in this state and all.

"Good morning shining world!"

Saint turned to Shin who greeted the class, waving his free hand in the air. The classmates erupted into laughter, some greeting back and some rolling their eyes with a smile. After a while, the attention on them were gone. Saint heaved a sigh of relief but his eyes went to their hands still clasped together.

"He hasn't let go yet" Saint thought.

 Shin noticed Saint staring at their hands together abit too long. He decided to pull his hand away, making Saint look at him.

"Sorry, you must have felt uncomfortable right" Saint wanted to shake his head, no it is the opposite.

"Good job to us today" Shin spoke softly shooting Saint a smile. "Come let's get to our seats"

Saint followed after Shin, still wondering if he should tell the truth about the handholding just now. As they sat down, Saint tried to process what just happened.

Shin using his strength to push away from Namtan in order to catch up to Saint.

He made a fool out of himself but Shin just joined in.

Shin didn't pull away because he didn't like it but because he thought Saint found it uncomfortable.

He slumped over, propping up his hand to hold his head. He then tried to subtly look over to Shin who was just looking at the front of the classroom. He felt his lips curled up into a small smile.

Damn, how can he not fall harder for Shin?

Saint was thinking a lot.

More than usual.

Abit too much.

Who is Namtan exactly to Shin. Why is she feeling this way.

Saint had been distracted the whole day, just because of the small possibility Shin likes Namtan. He couldn’t deny, it was all because he overheard Thiu saying how Namtan only did show up when Shin was around, other than that, she hanged out with her own classmates and level. He couldn't believe that small possibility got to him, he couldn't even look at Shin after hearing that. He was scared that it would be true. Damn, it had been just two days since Namtan was seen with Shin that day, and Saint was there. Why are people talking about it now?

But now they are alone, after class. They planned to hang out today and Saint had enough of thinking.

He would set it straight.

"Shin"

"Yes"

"Come on ask him" Saint thought.

"Namtan… she is just a friend right"

Shin lifted an eyebrow, Saint still wasn't looking at him.

"Yea she is"

"Ah… I see"

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing…"

Nah something is wrong.

He watched Saint closely, this was new. Saint never did ask him about anyone else before, even his friends from his own class. But maybe because Saint knows them. He didn't really know much about Namtan.

Shin internally facepalmed.

It might be because of what Thiu had said earlier. Shin wasn't able to clarify Miss Namtan had her own ulterior motives coming to his class. And it was to get favours from him.

Shin didn't push further, just quietly observing Saint. Something indeed was bothering him. He felt the glances from Saint but it was too frequent as compared to before and he noticed Saint was also distracted - having the teacher called him 5 times before he answered back, almost tripping when he was asked to go collect his marked assignment, not wanting to make eye contact with him whenever he looks over to Saint.

"Do you…" Saint gulped. He was scared to ask. The pause was long and Saint was looking around, anything that was not Shin. Shin noticed Saint nervously tapping on the table with his legs shaking abit too fast.

"Namtan…you do…"Saint had difficulty talking now. He didn't know why. He seemed to know he was stalling because he might not to know the answer. Instead, what he wouldn't want would be true. But somehow, Shin knew what Saint wanted to ask.

"No, I don't"

"Huh" Saint's eyes widened.

"She likes someone else already anyway" Shin smirked, holding back a laugh seeing Saint looked physically relieved.

"Ah, ah I see"

So Shin didn't like Namtan, like that. He was curious if Shin ever like someone before but he held his tongue.

He wouldn't ask him now.

Not yet,maybe when a better time comes up. Saint wasn't ready to hear if Shin is in love with someone else. That might not possibly be Shin. This was good enough, to be around Shin.

"So you are okay now?" Shin spoke. Saint turned to Shin, nodding quickly.

"Yeah, all good" Shin eyed Saint as he happily packed his bag. He was talking about going somewhere with him after school, like the arcade they were talking about or the yoghurt place.

"Damn Saint, were you scared that I like her?"

Saint and Shin made their way down, already reaching the first floor. They settled on getting yoghurt since it was a hot day today plus, it was a good day to just do abit of homework together. Shin wanted some help with mathematics, which oddly enough was Saint's strongest suit. They had planned to crash the yoghurt place to study and eat yoghurt at the same time - like killing two birds with one stone. And also, technically, this was a hangout. Though it seemed to sound like a cute date disguised as a hangout.

As they walked out of the school, Shin stopped in his tracks. Saint's eyes wandered to the guy leaning against the pillar nearest to them.

"Hello, hello Shin"

Saint found him familiar, but he couldn't place a name on him. It just looked like he was a student here, though he might not be in the same grade as the,.

"You got to be kidding me"  Shin muttered under his breath, but it was loud enough for all of them to hear.

It was one of Jeng's men, or kid. His name was Knot.

An old friend.

"Oh" Knot scoffed. " Am I sensing some hostility?"

Shin stepped forward, standing in front of Saint like he was shielding him from the guy. Saint became more alert, he felt restless like he sensed this guy was dangerous.

"We are going to talk privately"

"Sure"

Shin watched as the guy turned to move to the courtyard first. He turned to Saint, ruffled his hair abit and spoke.

"Saint, wait for me for abit, I'll be back okay"

"Okay"

Shin gave Saint a small smile before turning his heels, following behind Knot.

Saint was left there alone but he was watching the two. He had a bad feeling about the guy there.

The guy seemed so familiar. The guy looked like a fighter.

He grew more worried.

"It’s okay" Saint thought, trying to calm himself as he cracked his knuckles. "Shin would be okay"

His eyes zoned into Knot, watching him closely.

Saint was ready to fight him if he does anything bad to Shin.

Chapter Text

"You punch Jeng"

"Yea, I did"

"You know what is coming, don't you?"

"This is rich coming from you" Shin snickered.

"You are a coward, hiding behind Jeng."

"No, I am just trying to survive"

Shin twitched.

"Survive?"

That stroke a nerve.

Shin took a step back and folded his arms, glaring intensely at Knot.

The guy was still a menace from before.

"You needed to beat me up to survive?"

"Saint?"

"Oh, erm…" Saint nodded at Namtan. "Hello P'"

"Where is Shin?" Saint gestured to the two talking with his fists clenching tightly. Namtan lifted an eyebrow and folded her arms. Saint sensed Namtan also felt off about the guy Shin was talking to.

"Knot, surprised to see him here again"

"Oh you know him?"

"Yeah, Shin's old friend, he has some nerves showing up in front of Shin"

"What do you mean"

"He asked them to beat Shin up, for being annoying"

"Huh?" Saint felt the blood rushing to his brain, beating up? Shin?

"Oh, you didn't know about it yet huh?" Namtan sighed. "I let Shin tell you more, it had a big impact on Shin, but I am surprised he is civil enough to talk to Knot"

"Knot really broke him, they were really close"

"I'll see you later, I have to pick up someone "

"Bye"

Saint couldn't stand still.

He saw Shin getting more and more agitated as this Knot guy kept talking.

He had to move.

He moved, making his way slowly over to them while keeping an eye on Shin.

Knot sneered.

"Still hang up over it?"

Shin sighed.

"It is not exactly the greatest thing to do to a friend"

"Oh ho ho, how could I forget" Knot stepped forward, with his eyes in his pockets.

"You would have apologised, or look sorry"

"Be sorry over hurting you?" Knot shrugged.

"You were pathetic back then"

Shin's eyes widened.

"After you got beaten up, you toughened up now didn't you Shin."

It was half true, he did toughened up.

"Thanks to me, you got stronger no?" Shin chuckled, damn he should have excepted this high ego coming from.

That particular sentence, it was false. It wasn't because of him.

Not even close.
 

"It was never cause of you" Shin chuckled. "Still in your own world aren't you?"

"OH"

"You won't survive without your stupid gang right Knot?"

Shin internally gulped, he felt that was abit much but come on, Knot wasn't going to let him off. He had to rattle Knot. He watched as Knot glared at him, his hands clenched into fists.

Well, it is time to go Shin, if Knot let him.

"Are we done now?"

"I was trying to warn you" Shin rolled his eyes, it was more of trying to use the chance to mock him or stroke his ego.

"Sure"

Knot hated to see how indifferent Shin was to him. He knew he changed, Shin became more bold, strong, defiant - not the small shy Shin he was used to.

Well, it didn't mean, Knot was weaker than Shin right?

A punch was good enough, enough to avenge Jeng.

"You are getting cocky"

Knot spoke, lifting his fist up and lunged towards Shin. He gasped as Shin dodged it the punch, oh ho, he was smart.

Saint saw red and ran.

Knot then reached out and held Shin's arm, noticing Shin trying to get away.

Saint was already running towards them.

Shin was struggling, he did see the punch coming but not Knot holding his arm.

"Let go"

"Come fight me! You were smart enough to leave"

"You don't fight fairly anyway, what is the point"

Just then, Knot felt a huge force pushing his arm away from Shin. He stumbled abit, frowning at Saint who stood in front of Shin, shielding him from Knot.

"You made a mistake" Saint glared.

"No one is supposed to touch Shin"

"Oh ho, Shin, you have a bodyguard now?" Knot mocked but he stopped. Saint's glare was really intense.

Shin remained quiet, honestly, he was worried about Saint, Knot could joke all he want. He looked down at their hands together, Saint was gripping it so tightly as if his life was depended on it.

"Saint-"

"You want a fight, I'll give you one"

"No, no, no" Shin thought and shook his head.

"Come at me big boy"

Shin internally sighed, Knot was really asking for it. It won't be his fault if he turned up with a bloody broken nose anyway. He saw Saint raising his other hand, already clenched into a fist.

"You asked for it"

Saint punched Knot. Knot let out a small groan. He really didn't hold back the punch, after all, Knot hurt his Shin.

There was no way Saint would go soft on him.

"Saint, let's go!"

Shin pulled Saint away. He led them running out of the school. There was no way they could hang out at yoghurt place after what happened.

Well, there seemed to be only one place left.

His house.

A year ago.

Knot and Shin were old friends.

Well, they were friends since middle school. Knot had always been the bold and daring one while Shin was the more of a loner type, tagging along with Knot's antics whenever he could. But they were friends, not so close but not so distant either. When they knew they were going into the same high school together, they were ecstatic.

They had a friend at least.

That was until Knot decided to join the Jeng's gang. They were friendly to him, but not Shin, Shin avoided them.

That was until Shin heard about a classmate of his getting beaten up by Knot. He happened to walked past some students talking about it, it just happened. Shin wasn't the type to ignore someone who needed help so he went to check it out. It turned out to be Thiu, he saw him on the ground with no one helping him up. He ran to him, took him to the infirmary in school.

Thiu told him, it was Knot who fought him, they were trying to extort some money from him. He added that Knot wasn't alone, he was with two other guys. He went on to say how it wasn't fair.

"But, I think someone help" Thiu frowned, recalling a voice asking him to stop but Thiu was lying down in pain, he couldn't see who it was.

Knowing all these, Shin couldn't just kept quiet.

Despite him being some sort of a pacifist, he did believe some things need to be confront and fights might need to happen. Sometime, it was inevitable.

His mind was more worried about Knot, Knot wasn't like this. He didn't bully, back then.

Shin tried to gather his courage for the next three days, and when Friday came, he was ready. He felt he was.

Shin remembered when he saw Knot and his gang hang out, the shop Shin purposely avoided, it was rampant with a lot of trouble-making students. It was the other convenience shop that Knot and Shin used to go to in middle school.

Knot was with two other people- Jack and Jeng. They were hanging out there, as expected. Shin gulped, he had to do this. Perhaps Shin shouldn't have done it alone, but Shin didn't had anyone. He also didn't want to drag anyone down with him. Especially if this confrontation goes back, which seemed very likely.

"Knot this isn't you"

"Shin"

"Enough of this"

Shin paused. Knot sighed, Shin always express that he didn't like Knot being with a gang. But too bad, it was his choice, his right anyway.

"Come on Shin, life is better like this"

"It's not right, come on Knot" Knot glared at Shin's hand holding his wrist. "Let's get out of here"

"No"

Shin let Knot shake his arm away. Shin looked at Jeng and Jack, he knew he was in trouble.

"I am not leaving, Shin" Knot said. "But you better leave"

"No" Shin said softly, he was scared but well, he had to try. "Not until you decide to leave"

"Well well, if asking you nicely won't do" Jeng stepped up, crackling his neck. Shin looked at the three before him, ah, a fight huh.

"I let my fists do the work"

The next thing Shin could figure out was that he was laying on the ground, using his arms to block the kicks attacking his chest and back. He could feel the burn on his cheek from Jeng's punch, he really wanted to get Jeng back for that. He wanted to fight back, but he had no energy. Shin wasn't a fighter, physical wise, 1 vs 3 seemed so unfair and well, it was a clear win to Knot. He managed to peek a look at Knot, who just stood there with a sneer. He was looking at him.

So much for a friend huh?

Justice?

Who actually fights for justice.

"HEY!"

Comes in this mysteriously giant. Shin thought of what Thiu said, some dude helped him but he ran off after the gang left.

"Cowards, 3 vs 1!" He fought off Jeng and Jack while Knot ran away first.

They still want Knot to be in this gang? Shin thought. Pathetic

He watched on as the guy shoved Jeng and Jack away, before pulling punches to knock them on the floor. Jeng and Jack slowly got back up, and the fists flew, until the guy was able to knock Jack to the floor again.

"Hey Saint! Just you wait, we will deal with you"

Shin sat up slowly, still throbbing with pain. He watched as Jeng help Jack to leave the area and the mysterious giant stood there with his back facing him.

"Are you alright? You had it rough from them huh"

"Huh?"

The guy turned around. With his face and arms all bruised. Shin was surprised that the guy still managed to pull one of the biggest and sweetest smile he had ever seen. The guy squatted down beside Shin.

"Sorry about your friend, don't lose hope yet!"

The silence stretch.

Shin just stared at Saint, he heard Jeng call him that.

At least, there was still Saint around. He was pretty sure Saint was the one who save Thiu as well. If anything, he owed Saint a lot.

He quickly checking his arms and legs, mumbling a quick "Are you okay? That was so reckless". It was so soft, Shin thought Saint didn't hear him since there was no answer. Shin then held Saint's face, his breath hitched as he looked into Saint's eyes.

"Damn, he is so cute" Shin thought, his intention was to check if Saint got punched, but seeing how Saint was just blankly staring at him, Saint should be okay.

Saint then blinked at him and tilted his head. "Ah shoot, too cute" Shin thought again, not realising himself that his smile widened at Saint's cute action.

"You know " Saint chuckled, still looking at him. "You are kinda cute"

"Huh?"

"It looks like you are okay for now, be sure to go see a doctor!" Saint looked at his phone and internally cursed. "I am so sorry, I have to go now, please do take care! Be careful okay!"

"Okay" Shin watched as Saint dashed off, leaving all alone on the ground.

Shin smiled to himself.

Saint was also kinda cute.

2 days after the fight

Rumours formed about Saint wreaking havoc - the main culprit was Jeng's gang.

Shin tried to clear Saint's name, he really did - but no one would listen to him. They were asking for evidence, proof, funny how they are quick to blame and say bad things about people without proof of them doing it. He didn't have the courage to go to Saint directly yet, he wasn't even confident Saint remembered him from that fight.

Saint was hated, Shin couldn't do anything about it since they didn't know each other prorperly.

Shin decided to have a new resolve - to be strong and to help clear Saint's name.

Or to help Saint at least, in whatever way he could.

Shin did always notice Saint - how he was missing in most classes and how he had a busy life with working to get some money or being involved in other people's business. Shin was lucky Saint was in the same class as him, he didn't need to go wander around to find out where this cute giant puppy-like student was. He knew where Saint sat and when he would go off for his breaks in between classes.

It was his time to shine, which was to slowly show Saint someone was looking out for him, baby steps as Shin would say.

Shin started with trying to give him a small drink box with a note, but it backfired when Saint didn't came for 2 days straight. Shin started to think about other things Saint might need help with; the idea came when he overheard Saint grumbling to himself on how much he misses school and didn't know what topics to focus in and study for the tests coming up. Shin proposed to the teacher for a small section to write the homework on the board or the topics tested in their mid-terms or tests. Shin argued that it would benefit the whole class, but to be honest, the intention was to mainly help Saint pass at least.

Slowly, he tried to be stronger - he got into the soccer club and trained hard with them. Shin was close to giving up, he wasn't really used to the physical trainings they had. But, when he saw how hard Saint was rushing off from school, got glimpses of him doing his part time job of delivery food and saw his head down, sleeping in some classes, he couldn't help but felt he had to do better. Saint was doing so much, it seemed he didn't care that he was ostracised and he was doing the work to help out the bullied whenever he could.

With this motivation, Shin had became the star player of the team, leading him to be nominated and be the soccer team's captain. Everyone seemed to be enamored by Shin, with his title and his personality. Also his looks, but Shin didn't think much of it. However, Shin thought he was nothing.

The real deal was the one dozing off in the first class of the day, with his bruises all over his face and arms.

Someone everyone overlooked but looks, personality wise, he was the real deal.

If only the rumours were dealt with.

Saint would had been real popular.

Shin sometimes felt maybe it's good Saint had a low radar.

No one else was fighting for Saint's attention, other than Shin.

But he needed a good 'start', he couldn't just randomly go up to Saint and said hello.

A new year was all he needed.

And a lot of luck.

The perfect time came when Shin found out Saint was in the same class as him. He checked the class list online for the next year.

A chance.

He wasn't going to blow it now.

He constructed a plan to make Saint and him sit next to each other. The fact that the class wasn't willing to sit next to Saint was a big factor, he could just easily proposed for him to sit with Saint. But Shin wasn't satisfied just yet, he thought, once they saw Saint getting along with Shin, they won't believe the rumours anymore.

Saint would be the popular one instead.

However, Shin also felt reluctant.

A part of him wanted to keep Saint all to himself. He told himself, no, they all should know first, Saint is a good person.

Shin would try his best to show it to them, slowly.

Present Day:

Shin and Saint started to slow down, they were slowly approaching Saint's house. They had been silent since. Both of them didn't know how to start, with Knot, Jeng and why Saint punch Knot. Saint took a deep breath.

"So, we are going to your house?"

"Ah yea" Shin answered almost immediately. " We can chill here, I think they are still on our asses after what happened"

"I see"

They both chuckled softly, it was really an unexpected day that was happening. They were walking together, hand in hand, towards Shin's house.

Before Shin was able to process that they were still holding hands, his heart dropped seeing his family right in front of his house.

Mother, Film and ChingChing.

They weren't supposed to be home yet - ah Shin forgot, they were supposed to have dinner together today.

The three ladies were looking at Shin and Saint suspiciously.

The same thought was running in their minds - Shin had finally brought home a friend.

"My sisters and mom" Saint heard Shin speak, turning to the front.

Oh, he was going to meet the family.

"Ladies…"Shin cheerfully greeted his sisters, and turned to his mother. "And mom"

His mother smacked him on his arm but her attention was on the young man beside Shin. She looked down at their hands, her smile stretched as Shin and Saint slowly pull their hands away with their faces turning red.

Oh how interesting.

"Oh who is this young man"

His mother asked, smiling abit too cheerfully at Saint.

"ChingChing hasn't see him before" ChingChing chimed in.

"Either have I" Followed by Film.

"This is Saint, my good friend."

"Namtan says we should see the new guy you are hanging around with" Film smirked. "You had to pull a favour for"

"Huh"

"Nothing, my sister was just rambling!"

"Did you guys got into a fight?"

"What-"

"No mother"

"Better not, I get worried everyday since that day"

"I am okay"

"But Shin, you got into the fight cause of Saint no?"

Everyone was looking at ChingChing.

Shin was sure ChingChing was in the shop, she couldn't have heard what they were talking about.

"You were in the shop ChingChing"

"Yes, but you were loud and P'Sea got worried. So ChingChing and P'Sea went to listen to what you guys were fighting over about" She pointed at Saint.

"They said your name!"

"ChingChing, you didn't hear-"

"P'Sea said Shin said to them "Leave Saint alone" and then the guy started to punch"

"Oh okay ChingChing, maybe you need to rest, school is tiring!" Shin mouthed out " I will take you out for ice cream later" and ChingChing nodded happily, walking up to her bed.

Film and his mother looked at Saint, who looked even more confused than ever. They looked at each other and then to Shin, who looked at them desperately for help.

"We need to help ChingChing, so we need to go up, Shin you could help get some drinks maybe"

Shin watched on helplessly as his family left him alone.

He gulped and he looked at Saint.

Well, this was bound to happen.

They both decided to go sit at the living room for the "talk". Shin explained Knot and Jeng, he explained about how he got caught in a small fight too, the one ChingChing had exposed to the whole family. He was using the excuse that "He was helping someone from this gang" because he didn't really specify the details and made it as vague as possible to his family. They didn't need to know about it yet. 

"Hold on!"

Saint raised his voice.

"Shin, you were gone for 2 days because you were off to fight with them?"

"1 day technically, I was out to get food for my sister and then I ran into them"

"But it was because they wanted you to lead them to me?" Saint said, expressing concern. "They wanted me in the end"

"Yea, but it wasn't your fault. You helped out-" Shin paused for a moment, rephrasing his sentence. "They just wanted to deal with you since you beat them up before"

"Then you fought" Saint paused.

"For me"

Saint needed to say it, he had Shin risking his life (risking his injuries) just to fight for Saint.

Saint felt really touched.

Now he knew this, there was no way he was going to let them hurt him.

Not ever.

"Hmm" Shin hummed, looking at Siant.

"But you fought for me too"

Saint chuckled and sighed.

"Thanks Shin"

"Why"

"For fighting for me"

They both smiled at each other, right now, they are both glad they had each other - both trusting and taking care of each other.

Saint joined in for dinner, he was able to luckily. Shin's family was warm, funny but it was a nice dinner. He never seen Shin interacting with his sisters before - he did get teased a lot but you could tell they all love each other dearly in their own way. The way his mother help him with another serving without him asking, Film refilling his water whilst teasing him about how messy his is. ChingChing was suggesting dessert, saying she wanted the banana flavoured ice cream - to share with Shin (Film whispered to Saint saying ChingChing was always picky with desserts but whenever they had this dinner which rarely happens, she would always goes with Shin's favourite favour instead of hers).

Shin wanted to walk Saint home but Saint declined, he excused himself saying he knew the routes that the gang wouldn't take.

Shin nodded and waved Saint off.

Saint took this time to think about the events today.

He was smiling to himself throughout his way home. It was one of his happiest day of his life, a dinner with Shin's family?

Shin protecting him?

He couldn't believe it all.

All he knew, he felt so appreciated and happy.

"Ah Shin" He thought. "He is so precious"

At the same time, his phone buzzed. It was a notification, he was right in front of his own house.

He saw the sender.

"Shin Shin"

"I am home!" Saint shouted and he ran into his house, greeting his parents quickly before heading straight to his room.

He read the text he got while lying on his bed.

"Hey Saint! I hope you are home safely, Sorry if my family say anything weird"

He frowned, Shin didn't need to say sorry.

"No problem, they are cute and lovely, really"

The reply was fast.

"Ah really? Thanks, I let them know"

Saint thought for a moment, well the text wouldn't do any harm. He didn't want to stop talking yet.

"So are you"

Saint thought he messed up. He was regretting his small decision and was listening to some depressing songs when Shin didn't reply immediately. But Shin did replied, after 16 minutes.

"So is the one saying it"

Saint blushed, he squealed into his pillow.

"SAINT! Are you okay?" He turned to his worried parents. " I heard a scream or a sound"

"I am okay, all good!!!"

He waited for his parents to close his door and looked at his texts. Shin had sent another text.

"Good night Saint, see you tomorrow"

Saint smiled.

"Good night Shin"

Saint was extremely happy right now.

A good week had passed, the school holidays were around the corner. Saint realised they wouldn't see each other every day in school anymore, for like a month. But it was still a long time, he was enjoying his time at school - now being friends with Shin's circle. The gang didn't seem to appear anymore, it seemed Saint did a good job scaring Knot and Jeng off, for now, but he was ready if they wanted a fight anyway. At least right now, Saint wasn't alone anymore, he had Shin with him.

Speaking of Shin, they hadn't clear out some things that was bothering Saint a lot.

He decided today, after school, he would talk to Shin.

It was after school on a Tuesday, Shin and Saint were on cleaning duty and they were the only ones left in the classroom.

Saint turned to Shin, pointing at the small section of the whiteboard labelled "Things to Note"

"Shin, you did this?"

Shin nodded.

"Ah yea, haha it is useful?"

"Very"

"Then that is great, glad my idea worked out"

Shin smiled, it took him some time to convince the teacher to let some space on the big whiteboard for that to happen. He was ever more grateful that Saint found it useful.

He glad he help Saint, even if it just alittle.

"Then….is it true?'

"Hmm?"

"When they say you changed" Saint paused.

Shin blinked.

"It wasn't because of the fight" Saint spoke.

"It was because of me?"

Shin kept quiet for a moment.

"Yea, it was " Shin admitted, there was no point in hiding too. This all would get out soon." All because of you, with you being you"

"You had a crush on me-"

"Ah!" Shin almost tripped. He got himself together and coughed.

This was getting abit embarrassing, he didn't see his confession was going this way.

"Hmm yea"

He nodded.

Shin was expecting something bad to happen, like Saint being disgusted or he started being awkward with him.

Not what was going to happen next.

"Do you still do?" Saint stuttered, Shin whipped his head to Saint who was looking nervous.

"Have a crush on me?"

Do you still need to ask? Isn't it obvious? Shin thought, but this was Saint he was talking about. Ah, sweet Saint.

"Well…" Shin sighed. Here goes nothing.

"Yea I do"

Shin smiled brightly at Saint.

"I have a crush on you right now, I always had it since a year ago"

To tell the truth, Saint knew about this already. After the visit to Shin's house, he recalled the time he saved Shin. Or just getting beaten up and standing up for Shin. He remembered how after they left, when he went to check on Shin. Shin scrambled quickly to check his arms and legs if he was alright.

"Are you okay? That was so reckless" Saint hurt him mumbling. It was the first time someone showed him concern, usually the victim would just ran away. This time, the person stayed and even checked on him.

Saint's heart skipped a beat when he felt faces cupping his face, he saw Shin's worried eyes locked into Saint.

Saint remembered thinking, oh how handsome and cute this guy was. How kind he was.

He didn't remember much other than he had to leave quickly after that, but he didn't realise it was Shin that day.

Then again, Saint didn't know back then.

Saint should have known though, it had always been Shin who looking out for him.

About the whiteboard corner, it dawned upon him Shin was behind it when he didn't see whiteboard being updated during Shin's absence.

He overheard the others too, talking about how Shin was the one who always updating the whiteboard during small breaks.

"The dedication is amazing"

"Do you think he did this just for someone or for the class"

"Who knows right?"

Saint was surprised he missed out on that, it would explain how he could see Shin lingering around the whiteboard after the last class ended or during the breaks they had in between classes. He did noticed the marker marks on Shin's hand but kept quiet about it.

He also overheard about the class seating arrangement around the first day Shin was absent - the class was chattering about how Shin was early on the first day but was seen standing around the courtyard to kill some time before heading up with just some minutes to spare. They said it seemed that Shin was waiting for someone. Apparently it was only Shin and Saint left to arrive at that time, everyone else was already seated.

Actually, Thiu came up to him and spoke how Shin was the one who propose Saint would sit next to Shin, saying that he was willing to since everyone was hesitant to sit next to Saint.

"Shin was right, you are not so bad"

Saint guessed he could count Thiu as someone who he could talk to at least for now. Thiu did come up to talk to him for awhile when Shin was away, he figured it was a good thing.

The class always did emphasise how Shin was always saying Saint is not as bad as they thought, and how Saint was actually kind and nice.

Saint only got to know this during Shin's absence.

The things Shin did for Saint.

Saint felt really touched.

Shin had always tried to clear his name and help him.

All these, just to make Saint not be hated or ostracized anymore.

To show Saint was just a normal person.

To debunk the stupid rumours about him.

How could he not fall for him more?

Saint realised he didn't care about the rumours.

As long as Shin was there with him, he didn't need anything else.

Saint looked at Shin adoringly as he pursed his lips together, waiting for Saint to talk. Shin did just confessed to him.

Saint chuckled to himself.

"Damn Shin, you are so precious"

"I have a crush on you too"

Shin couldn't believe his ears, there was no way. He looked at Saint, wide eyes as Saint tilted his head, smirking at him.

"Really!" 

Saint chuckled and nodded with a hum.

Shin's heart swelled up seeing Saint jumping to him, giving him a tight hug.

Was Shin dreaming?

Saint pulled back, staring into Shin's eyes. Damn, Saint looked so happy right now. Shin knew too, he was happy, just flustered and well, he was shy. But believe him, Shin was extremely happy.

"So" Saint bit his lips. "it might be abit too fast but…"

"What is it?"

"Can I kiss you?"

Shin laughed. Ah, this is cute.

"Yes, yes you can"

Saint didn't wait, he went to peck Shin's cheek. It was a quick kiss, and of course, it wasn't enough for Saint.

"Can I keep kissing you?"

Shin laughed again, how can he say no to Saint.

"Yes yes"

Saint then wrapped his arms around Shin's waist, giving quick kisses all over Shin's face. Shin was giggling, he did like it but he was just shy. Saint was smiling through, noticing Shin's face getting redder after every kiss.

"EHEM"

They both froze and looked at each other. Did they get caught?

They turned to the voice, sighing seeing Namtan lifting an eyebrow at them.

"Hey Phi, do you need anything?"

"I need you guys to go home, argh" Namtan spoke, sticking out his tongue. "And get a room, I wanted to ask you about Film and to check on you since she was worried since that day Knot talked to you, but I just text her"

"Ah, oh…."

"We do have a room Phi, but you are here" Shin turned to Saint who spoke, he didn't expect that from his sweet Saint.

"Argh, this reeks boyfriends, Bye!"

Saint thought for a while, perhaps, he was glad he had those rumours. In the end, everything that had happened to Saint, had let him to Shin.

It was all worth it.

Extra:

Saint finally recalled the first time he saw Shin talking to the plants. He realized why he couldn't remember, or why he might not want to remember. But Saint decided not to let Shin know about it, unless he ask of course, because well, he realised that Shin was referring to him.

So, there was a confession, a girl appeared out of nowhere.

Saint scrambled to hide  but he could still hear the conversation between the two.

"Shin, is now a good time to talk?"

"Ah sure, what is up Tina?"

"Would you go out with me?"

Silence.

"Thank you for the invitation" Saint frowned at Shin's choice of words. "But I already have someone I like"

"Oh"

"But thank you for wanting to go out with me, I am really flattered."

"Then, could I know who do you like?"

"Secret" Saint frowned,  he peeked abit to see Shin putting a finger on his lips.

"The person is super cute, that is all I can say"

Saint sighed, he wonder who is the super cute person Shin liked. It was not like he wanted to be a busybody but he was curious.

Little did he know back then, Shin was referring to him.

"So, it was me"

Since now Saint knew, he couldn't help but blush and hid his face whenever he thought about the memory. At random times. While Shin looked at him confusedly,wondering what he was thinking about.

Chapter Text

A year ago, in April

"Argh, what is it again? What topics did I miss out"

Shin happened to be in classroom, watching Saint who was pulling his hair. Shin was seated at the back, while Saint was seated in the middle, clearing frustrated with his notes. It was just after class that day, there were still some classmates lingering around in class. Shin was actually waiting for his soccer practice to start - but mostly trying to spy abit on Saint who was still in school that day.

"Hey" Saint turned to his left, trying to ask Ping. "Erm… what are the topics tested -"

"Not sure, I have to go" Shin frowned as Ping brushed Saint off, he was leaving the classroom but he didn't need to be so rude to Saint. "Ask the teacher"

Saint sighed as Ping left. He turned to the girl who said in front of him, but once they made eye contact, the girl, Inky, quickly packed her things and left the classroom.

Shin was annoyed at the hostility of his classmates towards Saint. Saint hadn't done anything to them at all and they were like this.

"I will help him then" He thought. Really, poor Saint.

Shin was about to leave his seat and go to Saint to help him when Saint abruptly packed ins things quickly and stood up.

"I am late too"

Shin watched as Saint left the classroom hurriedly.

The gears in his mind started working hard, he had to think of something to help Saint. He looked at the whiteboard and tapped his fingers.

"His own classmates don't know what is tested or what is going on, maybe we should put up a small reminder"

He thought as he walked to the whiteboard, cordoning a small sections and labelled it as "Things to Note". He wrote down the details of the test coming up, homework and topics learned.  He took a picture of it and told the rest of the class who were there to no erase it.

"It comes in handy, this is in case you guys happened to forgot what is going on in class"

Shin smiled as the ones in class nodded, some showing him a thumbs-up as a sign of approval. He would bring this up to the homeroom teacher, at least he would be able to do this for Saint at least.

Months later,early December in the same year

It was 1st December, Shin was supposed to be lazing around since it was the holidays. But he was staring at his computer screen, closing his eyes as he clasped his hands together. He was there from 10am, the release of the class list was supposed to be at 3pm.

"Come on, just this time, the class arrangement wouldn't change that much"
 

Shin had been refreshing the school page for the past five minutes. It seemed the school webpage had enough of him and it hanged. He finally got it to work properly, now being careful not to refresh the page a lot. He just wanted Saint to be in the same class as him in coming year. He also wanted to be the first one to know about it. He sighed and thought this was alright, fighting for concert tickets were a lot worse than this.

His eyes widened as he saw the pdf.

"Here goes" Shin did a small prayer and before click in, scrolling to see his name first.

Before he could see his name, a name caught his eye.

"Saint Thamnithit Nitiroj"

 He looked below the names listed and smiled to see his own name in the same table.

They were in the same class.

"Yes!"

Shin cheered loudly, fist pumping the air and then realised, he had to think of something, a way to get Saint and him closer. Before he could think of any ideas, Thiu texted him first.

Thiu_est:"Hey Shin, Saint is going to be in the same class as us"

Shin saw the text and a brilliant idea came to mind.

Shin_NI:"Ah yes, I saw that, is something wrong?"

Thiu_est:"Nah, just thinking that everyone seems abit worried about Saint"

Shin smirked, his plan might work. Thiu would be able to help him - known as the self-appointed class-rep and also the one who everyone would talk to, he would be able to help convince people. Despite this being a new classroom, most of the classmates were Thiu's friends or know Thiu either way.

Shin is lucky Thiu became his friend.

He was pretty sure Saint had a role in it, even if it is not significant enough.

He did meet Thiu when he helped Thiu up some months ago.

Thiu_est:"Don't worry about it, I could sit next to him. Tell everyone that, I think they will feel more okay."

Thiu_est:"You sure? You with Saint?"

Shin_NI:"Yeah, he isn't so bad."

Thiu_est:"To be honest, that is great. I will let the rest know."

Another text from Thiu came.

Thiu_est:"You seem so sure he is such a good person"

Shin frowned. Saint was always a great guy, Thiu would see it one day.

His plan has to work.

Shin_NI:"You will see, just help me tell them to leave two empty seats next to each other"

Thiu_est:"Gotcha Captain, see you very soon"

New School Year, January

Shin arrived school early on the first day of school, abit too early than his usual timing. New year, New Shin perhaps? There was a good 40 minutes left before the school bell ring, but he was nervous. After all, his plan might actually about to start. He might have been too excited for the day to start, and was here abit early (to him).  He knew Saint was a late comer and he had the intention to seek him out before going to class, he had his hopes up. He thought he was able to see Saint walking in from the gate.

He was thinking of scenarios in his mind, maybe just casually saying "Hey there" or just bumping into him like those accidental bumps in dramas. But Shin ended up not doing anything since well he got dragged up to class by Thiu.

"Come on its like 10 more minutes left" Shin spoke as Thiu dragged him.

"Yea, don't want you to be late you know?"

"Saint is not even here yet"

Thiu raised an eyebrow at him as they reached the classroom. Shin seems to be very … into Saint lately. Perhaps it was because he texted him about Saint.

"How would you know that"

Shin faked a cough.

"He, he you know-

"He might not come either, you know. But yea we got two seats for you" Thiu gestured to the two seats in the classroom. Thiu wriggled his eyebrows at Shin, earning a small smack on the arm. Shin looked out at the window first, overlooking the courtyard. Seeing no signs of Saint, he sat down in defeat. Maybe Saint wasn't coming to school. Little did know the moment he looked away from the window, in comes Saint running for his life.

Shin looked at the whiteboard first, mentally reminding him he had to write out the small section out for Saint, and the class, he meant. It was helpful he thought. Well, he thought it played a part in Saint being able to pass his tests. He smiled to himself, remembering how Saint looked so happy at his grades. A passing mark was more than enough for Saint. Shin thought it was amazing that Saint was able to pass even with his busy life.

Saint was admirable in Shin's eyes, as always.

It was the last few minutes before the bell rang that Shin saw Saint appearing at the door. Saint looked like he did ran a marathon just to come here. Shin chuckled, it seemed he did put in a lot of effort to come to school on time. He looked down at his bag, searching for a small towel that he always had with him.

"Well, time to be of use to Saint, dear towel" It was Shin's precious towel, but he did not mind at all to give it to Saint. He had other towels anyway but giving it to Saint, well it seemed special since he was giving Saint a part of him, a small part at least.

Shin thought he was making some progress.

Shin was getting Thiu and some of his other friends to talk to Saint. Well, he was the one asking them to come to his table and talk instead of their usual spot at the cafeteria.

"Saint, are you a gangster?"

After the whole minor incident of Saint accidentally punching his bottle, his group seemed to be warming up to Saint.

In the cafeteria, the girls were talking about how cute Saint was and Thiu was agreeing, saying he might have misjudged him.

Shin felt abit proud in that moment.

Slowly, things would start to change.

Shin was happy to see Saint early in school, he did think ruffling his hair was too much, but Saint didn't seem to mind it. But of course, Shin wanted to spend more time with Saint, as selfish as that sounds.

However, the day that Shin saw how people were still having some animosity to Saint, he needed to spend time more with Saint. Shin was more than happy to, but he was more worried with the fact people were looking down on Saint. He wanted to cheer Saint up.He decided to ask more about Saint's friends, life and if he was okay to hang out with him that day.

A simple 'yes' was all he needed.

But he got so much more.

"I want to" Shin was so stunned to hear that, he was prepared for Saint to decline or tell him that he was busy today. Saint was beaming so brightly at him.

Damn Saint.

"I love to" Shin could himself putting up the biggest smile he got as he watched Saint chuckling at him. "Hang out"

Shin felt so lucky.

He knew making Saint doing planting with him was not the ideal first hangout, but Shin didn't think it would be on a Wednesday that Saint would have agree to hang out with him.

But first day of hanging out turned out fine actually.

Shin was quite nervous about showing Saint his plants, but well,  Shin just wanted to make Saint happy. He thought Saint would laugh and judge him for talking to plants despite deep in Shin, he knew Saint would be okay.

And he was.

It was the truth, he wanted to show Saint his mini garden or plants, they called it. It was Shin's sanctuary, the place he would go to if he was feeling stressed or lonely. His circle of friends knew about it, usually if they couldn't find Shin, he was there.

He thought Saint might want to come here to, especially when he mentioned he didn't have any friends. At least, he had plant friends.

He hoped Saint would come here if it brings him a better peace of mind, he hope whatever he did would make Saint feel abit better.

Shin thought it worked out abit.

Saint even tried to talk to Neona behind Shin's back. Shin heard him saying " Your dad is abit odd but still is cute" when his back was facing both of them. Shin hid a smile, Saint was really adorable.

As the day ended, the sudden thought hit Shin when they both were walking home together, was this the only time he would spend with Saint to hang out?

He didn't realised he slowed down as he was deep in thought - he wanted to hang out with Saint every day, not just today. He had to ask again, so he could be sure. He looked at Saint's big back, he hope he knew how much fun today was for Shin.

"Saint?"

"Yea?"

"Could we hang out again?"

It took Shin a lot of courage to ask, he went on to clarify he wanted to hang out with Saint outside of school and do other things, not just planting plants like today. Shin did not want Saint to get any wrong ideas.

"Yes"

That sealed it for Shin.  His mood went up, he bumped shoulders with Saint and blabbed about what they could do.

In his mind, he thought, he would get closer to Saint.

His crush.

His plan didn't factor in about Knot and Jeng thought, everything happened without Shin intending it to.

Shin just wanted to protect Saint that is all.

Now thinking back, he turned to look at Saint who was humming to himself. He then glanced down at their hands together, both slowly walking to the yogurt place they plan to go together after school today. There was a new flavour to try too, but Shin knew he would be getting one banana and one strawberry-flavoured yogurt anyway. 

"Well it was all worth it, I guess?" Shin thought, meeting Saint's eyes.

Saint gave Shin a big gummy smile that never fail to make Shin's heart flutter.

"Everything okay?"

Shin nodded quickly.

"Yup"

Everything was so okay right now.