Archive of Our Own ^beta

Rain held back a sigh as he felt Ple jittering in her place out of anticipation. He felt a small nudge from the side and looked to the left.

„Stop frowning,“ Sky whispered, and Rain quickly schooled his expression. He hadn’t realized that he was making a face. Sure, Ple had been nice enough to him the last few days. But she had still chosen someone else to go to Paradise with. And now her interest had been captured by Phayu instantly. Phayu was so lucky. He had just arrived on Inferno and had won a game and the chance to take two people of his choice on a date right away.

Rain hadn’t even signed up for this dumb dating show because he wanted to. Sky had been pranked by a friend and been signed up for Single‘s Inferno. Sky had been terrified of being chosen for the show by himself and pleaded for Rain to sign up as well. Rain had laughed at the likelihood of them being chosentogether but did it anyway. He was a good friend like that. He really hadn’t expected for him to be picked and especially not for both him and Sky to be picked together.

Since arriving on the island dubbed as the „Single‘s Inferno“ Rain had been out of luck. He had not won a single game and had not matched with anyone either. Sky had immediately matched with Gun and gone to Paradise with him for a night.

Ple, the girl Rain had immediately become smitten with, was also not returning his affections. And now Phayu had arrived on the island three days later and immediately taken all of Ple‘s attention.

Rain made it a point to blend the voices out and stare at the horizon with a blank face to not let his disappointment show on his face when Phayu picked Ple for the date.

Who knows? He might also pick someone else. He and Prapai might bond over working out, considering the body Phayu had. Sig was funny and full of personality. Phan was a beautiful girl with a lot of attitude.

Suddenly, Rain felt a harsh nudge in the side. „Ow!“ he looked at Sky accusingly.

“Ahead of you!” Sky hissed in a volume that was definitely picked up by the microphone.

Rain now realized that Phayu was standing right in front of him. “Do you want to go on a date with me?” Phayu asked him directly. Rain recognized the amused twinkle in his eyes. “You have to actually. I get to pick after all.” Rain internally rolled his eyes at the joke.

“Well, then I’ll grace you with my presence.” Rain huffed, and Phayu looked even more amused. Phayu kept staring at Rain, and Rain had to admit that Phayu was an attractive man.

“Please pick a second person to go on the date.” The robotic, female announcer voice called. Phayu blinked as if in a stupor. He looked up and down the row of contestants, only thinking of his second choice now.

“This person,” Phayu pointed at Sky with his thumb. Sky’s lips quirked into a small smirk. Rain was happy for Sky. Sky had been a little down since he and Gun had come back from Paradise, and Gun had dropped Sky like a hot potato. At least Sky could enjoy some good food for lunch if anything else.

They were told to go back to their rooms and change. Rain and Sky shared a room with Sig. “Wow, my two roomies are so popular!” Sig called out, but he didn’t sound jealous. He sounded genuinely happy for them. Rain grinned back. Sig was such a nice guy. He had matched with and gone to Paradise with Phan, who happened to be Prapai’s sister.

“No hard feelings if he takes more interest in one of us,” Rain joked as he and Sky made their way to the date spot. It was the beautiful pavilion right at the beach. High grass was swaying in the wind around the pavilion, and the food was a delicious western style brunch with sweet as well as savory treats.

Sky snorted. “Just enjoy yourself, Rain.” It went unsaid that Sky wanted for Rain to cheer up from his unsuccessful advances toward Ple.

Phayu pulled out both Rain and Sky’s chairs and casually asked them about the three days on the island before Phayu had arrived. Sky was happy to let Rain talk and instead indulge in all the yummy food. He actually liked Thai cuisine more than western, but he hadn’t been able to eat any western food in three days, so it was actually a welcome change.

Phayu laughed at Rain’s stories and also included Sky in the conversation occasionally. Still, Rain couldn’t help but feel like Phayu and Sky were talking to each other in a rather distanced, detached way. Maybe Phayu just wasn’t Sky’s type? Although Rain didn’t really get what Sky saw in Gun either. Sure, the guy was good-looking, but his smarmy and taunting way of speaking was a huge turn-off.

Phayu also asked about the other contestants. Rain tried not to say anything bad about anyone but failed a little when it came to Gun. Sky just badmouthed everyone but in a fun, teasing way that showed how close everyone had become in a matter of days. He didn’t say anything about Gun though.

After lunch Phayu was whisked away for one-on-one conversations by all contestants, so Rain didn’t see him until dinner.

When Rain had submitted his application for the dating show, the only thing he had known was that it was called Single’s Inferno and was made up of a women’s and a men’s team the last two seasons. How could he have known that this was the first season where all contestants had to be queer? Maybe he could have thought of that when he knew that Sky was signed up. But Sky didn’t even sign himself up, so that argument was invalid.

Ple was exactly Rain’s type, sweet and warm, so he had taken a liking to her on the first day. Rain had never thought himself anything but straight. But being surrounded by so many good-looking guys, Rain had to admit that men were indeed attractive.

So Rain couldn’t help but be pleased when Phayu approached him after dinner. Everyone suspected that with the arrival of Phayu today, the second matching would be held right on the day of Phayu’s arrival. Rain wasn’t trying to overestimate himself, but he couldn’t help but suspect that Phayu was considering taking Rain to Paradise.

“Rain, can we talk?” Phayu approached Rain after dinner.

Rain gave him a smile and started walking. Phayu laughed at the nonverbal response and followed.

“Rain, I only arrived today, three days late. So I felt like I needed to get to know everyone and talk to everyone in the shortest amount possible. And everyone is incredibly charming. That’s no question.”

Rain only nodded along. Phayu had arrived this morning and had to meet so many new people in this strange place. He was probably overwhelmed. He probably needed to get some things off his chest.

“Rain, it’s hard to decide on someone to show affection to in such a short time.” Rain didn’t say anything this time either, only nodding in agreement. He had told Phayu all about their three days here at lunch already.

“Rain, do you have someone you’re interested in?” That took Rain by surprise. As Rain was still debating whether it was a good idea to name Ple, Phayu already continued talking. “Actually, it doesn’t matter. Rain, I want to tell you that from now on, I will do my best to charm you. How about we go to Paradise together and get to know each other? You can give me your answer later.”

With that Phayu stood up and left Rain on the beach by himself. Rain needed a few minutes to collect himself and walked back to the cabins. Right at his cabin, Sig ambushed Rain. “Hey, loverboy. I just saw you and Phayu talking. What did he say to you? Did he confess his undying love?” Sig teased Rain.

“Of course he did,” Rain answered back with an obvious fake grin. Rain really liked Sig, but they could never be a couple. They bickered and called each other names all the time. Sometimes Sig even got on his nerves when he took it too far. At first Rain even thought Sig disliked him because of that.

Rain waited for when they had entered the cabin to speak. Inside Sky was throwing clothes into his bag dejectedly. Something was definitely wrong. Sky always kept his things tidy and folded his clothes properly. Rain knew he was probably sad because Gun was ignoring him. Rain decided to distract Sky with his news. “Phayu asked me to go to paradise with him.”

“What? Phayu wants to go to paradise with you?” Sig shouted out, and Rain had to shush him in case anyone heard him.

“So Phayu said he will pick you?” Sky didn’t look as dejected anymore. Rain smiled on the inside.

“He didn’t say those words. But he implied it. He said we should get to know each other. And he wants to go Paradise. He said I could give my answer later.”

“Later? We have to choose our match in less than an hour!” Sig cried out.

Sky shrugged but had a teasing smirk on his face. “Phayu just asked Rain to choose him as his match.” Rain had already understood that. He wasn't that dense despite what people thought. So should he? Rain definitely found Phayu attractive. But Ple was so much his type. He had never considered going out with a man. There was no time like the present though.

“Rain,” Sky called. He seemed to sense Rain’s distress. “I think it’s your decision. But why don’t you get to know Phayu? I’ll be honest with you. I don’t think Ple will pick you this time.” Rain agreed. From the way Ple had been the first one to talk to Phayu by herself and had gazed at him throughout dinner, he had already guessed that Ple would pick Phayu.

Rain nodded in acknowledgment. Then he looked at Sky seriously. “You should also pick someone who will pick you back.” Sky had a conflicted expression on his face.

Later everyone was told to submit who they wanted to go to Paradise with. Then one by one people went out to the camp fire and were told to say to the camera who they wanted to go with. If the person whose name you called, had written you down as their match too, they would come out to the campfire, and the two of you would go to paradise together.

Rain, Sig and Sky were waiting inside their cabin when the robotic voice announced via the small speaker in their room, “Rain, your match has called your name. Please take your bag and go to Paradise with them.”

Sig laughed gleefully and Sky had a smug look on his face as Rain went outside. It was obvious to them who he had chosen.

Usually, it was a mystery who went with who to Paradise until the couples came back from Paradise. This time it was obvious, seeing as the only people who went to Paradise were Rain and Phayu.

Rain didn’t want to be mean since he didn’t get to go to Paradise the first time around either. But he really wondered what the others were doing for no other couple to go to Paradise. He was slightly disappointed Sky wasn’t here. It meant Sky had chosen Gun again.

A weight being lifted from his hands pulled Rain out of his thoughts. Rain looked at Phayu who was trying to take Rain’s bag to carry for him. Rain politely said that he could carry it, but Phayu insisted. Rain nodded and let Phayu carry the bag. It wasn’t super heavy anyway. It was only for one night.

Rain couldn’t help but admit that it felt great to have someone make an effort for him, pay attention to him, try to impress him. And Phayu was super attractive to boot. One couldn’t help feeling flattered to have someone this attractive focus their attention on you solely.

They walked up the wooden steps over the sand hill and arrived at the helipad. There a helicopter took them to Paradise. Paradise was a actually a five star luxury hotel with all kinds of over the top amenities. But when would Rain ever visit a place like this again? So Rain would take full advantage of this opportunity.

They both put away their luggage in different bedrooms and reconvened in the living room after changing. Rain put on a soft, almost see through shirt that softly lay on top of his shoulders and fell over his torso softly. It was made of a glittery material and gave him an ethereal look as if he was covered by thousands of tiny snowflakes. He decided not to go overboard and added simple black, baggy pants. He was on a dating show that would be available on a huge streaming platform. He needed to look the part.

Phayu was already waiting for him on the couch in a simple blank tank top and gray sweatpants. He looked effortlessly sexy. Rain tried not to let Phayu’s effect on him show and sat down next to him at a respectable distance. Phayu raised an eyebrow at the small space Rain had left empty but didn’t say anything.

“We’re here for one night only. Let’s have some good food,” he suggested, and Rain nodded eagerly. They scoured through the room service menu and decided to order one dish from every section. Rain’s mouth watered thinking of all the delicious food. Maybe Sky had liked his time with Gun so much because he had been eating such high class food in Paradise.

“So let’s talk.” Phayu suggested. He leaned back on the couch in a relaxed manner and put his arm over the backrest as if inviting Rain to sit by his side. “Are you not curious about me, Rain? You came here after all.”

Rain was indeed curious. Paradise being a luxury hotel was a nice bonus, but the actual reward for matching with someone and getting to Paradise was that you could exchange personal details in Paradise. On Inferno you could not ask the usual introductory questions. How old they were, their job, living area and the like. Those things revealed a lot about your standing and wealth. The show wanted people to fall for each other based on purely personal attraction, not materialistic things or social standing.

Phayu was so handsome and charismatic. He was nicely built. Did he have a job fitting his looks? An actor or model?! But if he was famous, he wouldn’t be on Single’s Inferno. Someone recognizable by his face revealed his social standing without having to say something right away. Maybe a bodybuilder, a trainer, something with sports? A young entrepreneur judging by his charisma?

Rain shook himself out of his thoughts. “How old are you, Phayu?” Since people on Inferno didn’t know each other’s age, they had all agreed on the first day to talk to each other casually and not use any honorifics at all.

“I think you’ll have to call me phi now,” Phayu teased.

“I’ll call you loong!” Rain countered.

Phayu laughed. “Come on. Call me P’Phayu, nong Rain.”

Rain rolled his eyes. He was definitely not that young.

“Actually, N’Rain. You’re not a minor, are you? If I met you on the street, I might hesitate whether it was appropriate for me to hit on you.” Phayu was still teasing.

Rain huffed. “I’m 19!” He screeched indignantly.

Phayu laughed then leaned forward. “So call me phi. I’m five years your senior.”

Five years could be quite a gap when you were still young. But Rain was not underage, so it was not impossible. “Ill call you phi after the show ends. Till then everyone’s friends. No seniors or juniors!” Rain declared.

“You’re suggesting we meet up after the show ends? You must already be quite taken with me, Rain.” Phayu teased once again.

Rain blushed a little. He hadn’t thought thay far ahead, but the idea didn’t sound unappealing.

“So which university should I go to meet you then? Where do you study, Rain?” Rain could also be working already, but most of the younger generation went to university before getting a job.

Rain told Phayu his university and that he was studying Architecture. It turned out that Phayu was in fact his direct senior and had just graduated last term.

Rain couldn’t believe how much they had in common. They fit together so perfectly! The food arrived, and Rain enjoyed being pampered by Phayu. Every few minutes Phayu called for Rain and held out his own fork to feed Rain. By the end of the meal, their thighs were touching, Rain leaned back into Phayu’s arm over Rain’s shoulder.

They talked about their hobbies and interests. Phayu liked to cook and sing. On top of that, he liked to tinker with bikes and ride as well in his free time. Rain couldn’t believe what a catch Phayu was.

He felt a little inadequate in return. His hobbies were gaming and anime and manga. The latter two mainly thanks to Sky. Rain was an architecture student after all. He had almost no free time! Phayu would understand that as an Architecture graduate.

After some time of letting the food be digested and talking non-stop, they went out to the swimming pool on the balcony. This time it was Rain who finished changing earlier. The pool looked great with elegant light brown tiles on the ground approaching it, the pool itself azure blue and lit up by several low lights surrounding it. Rain jumped in and kicked his legs in a relaxed way.

When Phayu came out, he looked just as good as this morning when he had arrived in front of them, shirtless, on the beach. He was stacked but not overly buff and his thighs and arms toned.

Phayu himself was struck speechless by the beauty waiting for him in the pool. When Rain saw Phayu, he swam over to the edge of the pool and laid his elbows on the edge. His skin was fair, his hair slicked back by the water, making him look sexy instead of the way his bangs usually framed his face in a cute way. He was lit up by the moody lights around him.

If the pool had been Rain’s idea or Rain had been to Paradise before, Phayu would have thought Rain was trying to seduce him as alluring as he looked inside the pool, looking up at Phayu from the water.

Phayu slid into the water. He couldn’t help reaching out beneath the water to put a hand on Rain’s waist. Rain looked at him in surprise but didn’t protest. Phayu pulled away. He didn’t know whether Rain wasn’t protesting because he liked it or didn’t want to embarrass Phayu on camera.

Delicate fingers tapped Phayu’s and Rain’s fingers intertwined with his. Phayu felt a bolt of electricity zap through his body as his fingers touched Rain’s wet skin, and their eyes met in the low lights. Rain had to know what he was doing to Phayu. He was probably experienced, right?

Rain was so good-looking and attractive. He probably had tons of admirers within his department and outside of it too. Phayu wanted Rain to look at him only.

Rain was so alluring without doing anything. He reacted to Phayu’s teasing in cute ways but sassed back every so often. Phayu had never expected to meet Rain in this dating show. His brother had joked that Phayu should sign up, and Phayu, in a fit of spontaneity and being fed up of hookups, had done it. Thank got he had.

Sig didn't stop grinning and teasing until Rain had closed the door behind him. When Rain had actually left, Sig looked at the other hopeless case who had, unlike Rain, not chosen his own happiness. "Come on. Let's go see Rain off." By that he meant to see the helicopter fly away. By which he actually meant, see who else would remain sad and single tonight. Sky nodded and followed Sig outside to the common cooking and eating area.

Sig didn't know what was worse. Being interested in someone who had no interest in you or not being that interested in anyone on a dating show. Sig could hardly say this in the cast interviews, but he didn't know who to choose this round of matching, mainly because he didn't have any interest in anybody.

He and Phan had gotten along fine and maybe they'd even have gone on a second date in the real world. But this was Single's Inferno, and they had only eight days to find the perfect match, so they unanimously decided to talk to other people as well. And Sig did.

He shared a room with Rain and Sky and knew now enough to know that they were both great people but would never share anything romantic with Sig. He had talked to Ple who he would have thought about wanting to get to know more. But that was before Phayu arrived, and he had seen Ple's open attraction to him. Sig had also talked to Phayu and had definitely seen what Ple saw in him. In the end Sig had gone for Prapai who had been open to talk and get to know each other more than anyone. Sig hadn't considered Gun. He agreed with Rain. The guy was smarmy. Alas, Prapai had chosen someone else. Sig was also slowly starting to make out who.

Sig sighed. 'At least someone had moved on to greener pastures,' he thought as he watched the helicopter fly away. Funnily enough, the only passengers on the helicopter this time were Phayu and Rain. So it was obvious who had paired up with whom, seeing as the rest of them were still here, looking after the helicopter move out of their sight.

"Let's cook dinner. What's on the menu, chef Sky?" Sky was undoubtedly the best cook among them and usually decided on the menu based on the provided ingredients. Ple, Phan and Sig were his best helpers. Rain and Prapai tried their best but were not to hold a knife without supervision. Gun was neither skilled nor willing but did what was demanded. He wanted to eat after all.

"Who knew that Phayu would choose Rain." It was Gun who finally dared to address the elephant in the room.

"Why? Were you hoping to take Phayu to Paradise?" Sig teased.

Gun laughed his hollow laugh. "No, I just didn't think he would choose Rain. There were so many interesting people vying for his attention."

Sig couldn't argue with that. Sig might have thought about shooting his shot if Rain hadn't stormed in and babbled about Phayu inviting him to Paradise. Rain was a little of an airhead, so if even Rain got the invitation, it must have been awfully clear. One thing that turned Sig off immediately was someone who showed no interest at all in him.

They did the dishes, and Sky walked off by himself. Sig saw Prapai follow him. That explained why Sig didn't go to Paradise. Sig sat down with Ple, Phan and Gun. The conversation went back to Phayu and Rain. They were the only people they could talk about after all. "We're such a boring season. Everyone's here on Inferno," Sig joked, and everyone laughed, but bitterness was stagnant in the air.

"Phayu's sure got it nice. Just arrived today and right off to Paradise." Gun complained half-heartedly. Probably because couldn't appear too villainous to the viewers.

"The important thing is not him going right to Paradise. The important thing is him getting the person he wants right away." Sig grinned and wiggled his eyebrows suggestively although nothing would happen. There were cameras after all.

"It's good that Rain got to go to Paradise," Ple said, and Sig felt like she meant it even if she was jealous.

"Paradise was nice. I loved the amusement park," Phan swooned and got Sig to agree with her. They did have fun at the amusement park inside the hotel. Gun added some of his own favorites in Paradise. They all agreed that Ple needed to go although they knew this wasn't solely in her control.

Sky let himself sink into the seats set up towards the horizon and looked out into the now dark sea. He felt someone walk up behind him.

"Can I sit with you?" Sky knew it was Prapai before he spoke. Sky gestured at the seat beside him. Prapai didn't sit down next to Sky but in a seat to his right.

Prapai had approached Sky before the matching and asked him in almost uncertain terms to pick him. Sky had thought about it. In the end Sky just hadn't felt ready to pick Prapai now. Sky wasn't stupid. He could tell that Gun wasn't interested anymore. He knew Gun was just an asshole. laying around and leading Sky on and dropping him without any explanation or consideration.

Sky wasn't even sure why he was so hung up on him. But for some reason he still held out hope. He had even gone to talk to Gun himself earlier. He felt that they had connected in Paradise. Apparently, Sky was wrong.

Prapai was fun and definitely good-looking. No one was saying otherwise. But Sky felt that he was a little shallow. Sky didn't think that Prapai would choose him when he expressed his interest in him. It felt like Prapai had said those words to everyone. Rain finally persuaded Sky that Prapai was genuinely putting his hopes in Sky.

"I'm sorry. I chose who I wanted to go to Paradise with most."

Prapai nodded. "That's okay. We can also talk and get to know each other here on Inferno." He smiled his blinding smile which looked a little fake.

"Stop that. You come across as such a playboy when you say these sweet things." Sky decided to give Prapai a chance and tell him what bothered him.

Prapai seemed to seriously contemplate Sky's complaint. "Sorry, but then what should I do? I know I'm a sweet-talker and that I'm an arrogant narcissist. But that's really who I am. I really want to get to know you. I really find you attractive and everything else I tell you. And I really think I'm not a bad choice."

Sky sighed. He couldn't see himself falling for someone like this. It just wasn't the kind of personality he noticed. Although what were his other choices on Inferno right now? Phan and Ple. Sky had never fallen for a woman. He found them attractive occasionally. But he wouldn't exactly call himself bi. Maybe pan if it came push to shove. Sig was definitely a platonic connection. Gun? Well, even if Gun chose Sky next time, Sky wouldn't make the mistake of choosing Gun a third time. It might not seem like it, but Sky did learn from mistakes. Sky would rather go to Paradise with Rain and be pulled to the amusement park Rain had envied from Sig's visit.

"We can't swap personal details on Inferno," Sky reminded.

Praprai shrugged. "Isn't this show about making connections and not being influenced by those things? I can ask a lot of things that don't involve your personal details and will let me know a lot more about you than your age or job. What's your favorite food? Do you like mountains or sea more? What's your favorite colour? Do you prefer romance or action movies?" Prapai leaned forward with every question as if he was a dog asking to be pet.

Sky laughed. Prapai suddenly seemed a lot more genuine like this. "I'll make you a deal. You also have to answer every question I answer. I also want to get to know you. I don't want to hear sweet words. I want to hear about you." Prapai nodded eagerly, reminding Sky of a puppy again. He couldn't wait to get to know this version of Prapai.

The next day back on Inferno, Rain was bouncing from one place to the other like a rubber ball. Sky didn't know how Rain could talk non-stop like this without taking a breath. Sky was already hearing how sexy Phayu looked in a tank top and sweatpants for the third time today, and Rain had barely been back for half an hour.

Sky wanted to tell him to shut up, but Rain had been so down the past few days because of Ple, and he had only signed up in solidity of Sky after all. So Sky let him talk, but Sky was definitely not listening.

Sky had a headache because he had barely slept. Prapai had taken Sky's suggestion to get to know each other to heart and kept him up all night, playing 20 questions then 40 questions then 60 and so on. Sky didn't know how long they had stayed up because the only clock on Inferno was the one in the kitchen. But Sky had slept three hours at most. He felt like a zombie.

Rain was still bouncing about when they arrived at the kitchen to make lunch. Ple actually startled when she saw Sky. "Sky, your eyebags are huge!" Sky sighed. He had expected Rain to blurt something like that out so blatantly but not Ple. If she couldn't hold it in, he must look really bad.

"I didn't sleep well."

Sig snorted. "I don't think it's that you didn't sleep well. It's more like you didn't sleep. Someone sneaked off with someone yesterday and only returned to his room when everybody was already sleeping soundly."

Sky threw an angry glare at both Sig and Prapai, who was looking smug.

"P'Pai, congratulations!" Rain exclaimed, for once grasping the situation immediately.

Phayu and Gun were walking up to the kitchen at that moment, talking. Sky looked at each of the contestants. Ple looked like she wanted to talk to Phayu. Before she could make a move, Rain bested her.

"P'Phayu!" He turned into a rubber ball again, this time bouncing against Phayu's chest instead of around the room.

Phayu smiled when he saw him. "Sweet boy," he called and pulled him in for a hug.

"You've known each other for less than 24 hours, and you already have a nickname?" Prapai remarked what everyone was thinking.

Rain looked a little abashed while Phayu sported a satisfied expression. Sky started to suspect that the nickname was a deliberate move from Phayu to quickly build a bond between him and Rain.

After lunch they were called together for a game again. Sky participated, but he wouldn't say that he did his utmost. He had taken a painkiller to get rid of the headache, but the lack of sleep was still plaguing him. Ple seemed determined, and Sky understood. If she waited longer, Phayu would completely lose interest in talking to anyone else but Rain. Obviously, their night in Paradise had gone splendidly.

The game was won by Prapai in the end, the reward once again being taking two people on a date. Prapai looked at Sky triumphantly. Sky couldn't help but want Prapai to pick him.

Sky didn't regret staying up the night with Prapai. They had talked endlessly, and the sincere but fun conversations had persuaded Sky to give Prapai a real chance. Honestly, if Prapai didn't pick him, it wouldn't break Sky's heart, but it was a near thing. This island really brought out the rawest emotions in him.

"The winner Prapai may pick two contestants to go on a date with." The robotic voice announced.

"The two people I want to go on a date with are..." announced Prapai in an official tone. "Sky and Phan." Sky's jaw dropped open.

"P'Pai?" Phan was confused as well. Naturally. Phan was Prapai's sister. Everyone knew that.

"Don't you want to eat nice food, Phan?" Prapai smiled as if he had done nothing wrong. Sky couldn't help the satisfication he felt at Prapai's choice. Prapai had vowed to prove his sincerety to Sky. This was him doing exactly that. As required, he had chosen two contestants to take on the date.

But he was also showing Sky his commitment to him. Obviously, he wouldn’t be interested in his own sister. And Phan got to enjoy some good food. It was a win-win for everyone. The robotic voice didn’t refute Prapai, seeing as he had indeed chosen two contestant for the lunch date.

At lunch Phan focused on her food while she enjoyed the show. Since Prapai’s dating life began, Phan had never seen her brother with the same person twice. Nowadays she wouldn’t even dare call it a dating life. It was Prapai’s hookup life if anything. Not that Phan was off a lot better. She wasn’t as wild as her brothers, but she wasn’t looking to settle down either. Ple really didn’t know what her mom was thinking, signing them up for this dating show. Did she think they’d miraculously find love on an isolated island? Everyone here was attractive and friendly - most of them at least - but dating shows weren’t actually real after all. A spark and high tensions away from civilization was nice and all, but it wouldn’t last when they all invietably went back to their own lifes.

Although there was someone on whom mom’s tactic seemed to be working. Right on the first day, Prapai had fallen head over heels for Sky.

Sky was definitely attractive. Phan couldn’t deny that. She just hadn’t thought him to be Prapai’s type. Admittedly, Prapai hardly had a type since he has never dated anyone seriously.

Phan could approve of Sky dating her brother if they were to continue this outside of this island. Sky was witty and sassy. He never let Prapai have an inch and kept him on his toes. Phan had also never seen Prapai so eager and desperate to impress someone. He deserved it though. Just a small retribution for all the broken hearts he left in his wake. Prapai had yet to take Sky to Paradise though, so there was no future outside the show to speak of yet.

Phan mostly enjoyed the delicious western lunch her brother had painstakingly won for her and only chimed in occasionally to tell an embarrassing anecdote about Prapai. That was her duty as his little sister after all. And if Sky felt repulsed by some harmless stories, he simply wasn’t that genuine a person after all.

Unknown to Phan, she was actually endearing Prapai to Sky with every embarrassing story. Prapai felt more human and less like his flirty playboy persona this way. During this lunch Sky also got to know that Prapai had a good relationship with his siblings and that Prapai’s mother was hounding him to settle down.

The evening was spent calmly with people hanging out and relaxing as well as trying to get some alone time with their subjects of desire. Prapai glued himself to Sky and refused to leave his side. Sky accepted his fate, and they hung out with others in the kitchen first and later just the two of them in Prapai, Gun and Phayu's empty room.

Ple invited Phayu for a a talk, and Phayu graciously accepted. It was a dating show after all, and Phayu needed to be a participant although he had already set his heart on Rain. Rain sulked at Prapai and Sky until Phayu came back and disappeared with him.

Gun as well as Phan tried to cheer Ple up when Phayu left although it was unclear who was interested in who in this trio. Sig remained with the trio and later left Ple to fend off Gun's advances when he and Phan decided to wander off by themselves. They wanted to talk to other people too, but it wasn't like they hadn't gotten along at all. However, their chemistry seemed to veer more into platonic territory at the moment.

The next day all of them could see the helicopter fly in while they were getting ready for the day. The helicopter could only mean one of two things: either there would be a matching held tonight, or there were new contestants.

Rain and Phayu had just gotten back from Paradise yesterday, so the former was unlikely. However, Phayu had also just arrived the day before yesterday. Could they already be getting new company again?

The filming was almost over as well. They were all gathered at the fire place, the place with the best view to the walkway over the sandhill to the heliport. They waited a short time.

Two men appeared and walked down the top of the hill. Both of them were averagely tall and had rather soft, slender builds. When they came into view, three contestants let out a surprised gasp. "Phi!" two people said. One of them was one of the new contestants who had shouted the word and was waving happily. The other person had been Ple.

The first to arrive was the waving contestant. He had a cute face and braces but was dressed smartly in a wine-red shirt and dark pants. He threw himself at Prapai, and Phan came over to hug him too.

The next was a slightly taller but slimmer boy with black hair that covered his ears. "P'Som, what are you doing here?" Ple asked confused.

As suspected, Som turned out to be Ple's older brother. The other guy was Plerng, the middle child between Phan and Prapai. Everyone crowded around the new people, but Rain couldn't help but sit back and stew. Som was definitely Ple's brother. The way he fawned over Phayu was just like her. Hopefully, they didn't have another sibling named Kluay or Linchi.

Both Plerng and Som got some alone time with each contestant since they arrived later. Rain tried his best to remain civil despite Som clinging onto Phayu. Sky assured him he came across as passive aggressive which only confused Som and surely didn't endear Rain to Som as a potential love interest. Som didn't seek Rain out after that. Rain was glad for that at least.

Plerng was fun, and he and Rain got along quickly. Rain might have even considered getting to know Plerng more if it wasn't for Phayu. Then Rain scowled at the memory of Som buttering up to Phayu and Phayu not refusing him at all. It was a dating show. It was only natural to talk to everyone and not refuse advances too much. Still, how was Rain supposed to take their connection seriously then?

Another one who was like their sibling was Plerng. Just like his brother Prapai, he had taken a liking to Sky. Sky just scoffed at the notion, "Plerng's just one-upping Prapai. I can see it in the way he acts around Prapai. If Prapai wasn't so obsessed with me, Plerng wouldn't be looking at me. Phan told me Prapai used to be a huge player. Plerng's just curious."

"Wow, Prapai must be really serious about you that even his siblings have taken an interest in you." Rain commented. Sky didn't know what to say in return. Prapai's siblings being interested in Sky did indicate that Prapai must be different around Sky than around his past dates.

Sky tried not to let the thought affect him too much. But when the next day a game was announced around midday with the winning prize being taking a person of their choice to Paradise, Sky desperately wanted Prapai to be the one to win and take him to Paradise. He knew he was being unreasonable in wanting Prapai to put in all the work. But he wanted Prapai to win and pick him. It would be the last time Sky would ask for proof.

Either the gods or Prapai heard Sky's prayers because Prapai actually won first place. Second place was Som and third place Ple. Sky had almost gotten third place himself but luckily missed out. The rules stated that the winners were not able to pick each other. Sky did want to see whether Prapai would keep his promises now that he had a real chance to get to know Sky.

They were given time to pack and wash up. The winners had time until after lunch to decide on who they wanted to take to Paradise. As they were walking back to their rooms, Prapai already made a beeline for Sky, promising to take him to Paradise.

Everybody had by now noticed Prapai's obsession with Sky, so they steered out of his way. Most of all because the interest finally seemed to be returned.

Prapai had a more limited choice by now, seeing as a third of the island's inhabitants were his siblings. Not that it mattered to him. The only one he had eyes for was Sky anyway. Plerng and Phan congratulated Prapai and told him not to pack the brown jacket.

The whole time Rain lamented that either Som or Ple was gonna pick Phayu for sure. "I mean, Phayu and I definitely had a good time. There was just this connection and sexual tension too. Everything was just perfect. But like, we've only known each other for a day. And it's a dating show. Why wouldn't he be interested in other people?"

Sky was kind of sick of Rain's blabbering, but he didn't want to shut him up. Right now Sky was in the fortunate situation of Prapai showing his commitment to Sky. Sure, yesterday Rain had gone to Paradise, and Sky had remained here. But Sky had chosen to stay behind out of his own will. Rain was not choosing to be on Inferno. Sig soon shut Rain up with a well-placed tease, and the topic changed.

Later they all went to their rooms and waited for the winners of the game to announce their desired match. Despite all of Prapai's devotion and endless promises and sweet words - or even because of them - Sky doubted that Prapai would actually choose him until the very end.

Actually, Sky wasn't sure why he was chosen for this reality show in the first place. He was neither extraordinarily handsome nor very interesting. Even though Prapai promised him that Sky was the most beautiful person Prapai had ever laid eyes on.

Sky couldn't hold the smile on his face when the robotic voice announced Prapai's choice and asked him to go to the fireplace. Prapai reached for Sky's bag right away, and Sky let him.

Sky saw Som and Ple staying behind at the fireplace. Ple looked deep in thought and slightly uncomfortable. Sky felt a little sorry for her. She probably knew her brother better than anyone and had noticed Som's strong interest in Phayu. Sky couldn't know for sure who Som would choose. Som had only been here a day. But Phayu was a strong contender in Sky's opinion. Gun had also taken a slight interest in Som and been nice to him. Som seemed rather annoyed by Sig's loud and brazen nature. Rain had been too passive aggressive. Sky and Prapai were obviously off the table. Sky hadn't seen Som talk to Phan. Som hadn't had a chance to talk to Plerng as Plerng had also been busy getting to know all the contestants.

Sky anxiously waited with Prapai at the helicopter. "Are you afraid of heights?" Prapai asked. Sky shook his head. "I'm worried."

"Worried about what?"

Sky sighed. "Rain is my best friend." Prapai nodded. Sky had told him that Rain and him were close friends. "Rain was very upset earlier because he believes that Phayu will go to Paradise without him tonight."

Prapai nodded. "I believe that too." Sky nodded his agreement.

A few moments later Som appeared together with Phayu. Phayu was carrying both their bags. Sky had to consciously force his eyebrow from raising up. Phayu was not Rain's lover. There was no reason for Sky to frown upon him.

Who Ple would choose, now that Phayu was not available anymore, was the biggest mystery. They waited a few more moments at the heliport. Prapai gave Sky his jacket and Phayu and Som were talking. It was immediately visible who Ple had chosen. There were only two contestants with long hair on the show. That is if you didn't count Phayu's man bun. But there were definitely only two female contestants on the show.

It seemed like a reasonable choice. Phan was friendly and attractive. She and Ple had spent a lot of time together the last two days. She must have made a good impression upon Ple.

They all got on the helicopter and flew over to the hotel. Prapai didn't seem that fazed by the luxurious hotel suite. It was soon revealed why. Prapai was six years older than Sky and the heir to his father's business. Plerng and Phan - he explained - were not interested in taking over or helping out with the family business.

Sky was an architecture student in his first year. They both did marvel a bit at the age gap but got over it soon. Six years could be a lot, but they were both adults. There was nothing wrong with it. Sky talked about why he chose architecture and the heavy workload. He tried to avoid the topic of friends. Rain was his closest friend, and he wasn't allowed to reveal Rain's personal information to Prapai. Although Sky was pretty sure Prapai had guessed most of it already.

Sky was not too keen on the pool, the spa, the gym or the amusement park. After a fantastic dinner Prapai insisted that there was a place inside the hotel they should check out. Sky let Prapai lead him, and soon enough they ended up in Sky's dream vacation.

The hotel had an extensive library complete with a manga section. Sky led Prapai through the aisles, showed him his favorites and Prapai listened attentively. Afterwards they sat together in the comfortable armchairs, read and talked occasionally.

Sky had been so impressed and felt so connected to Gun who had led him to the huge hotel pool and initiated an intimate, romantic moment, but this was so much better and so much more comfortable. Sky felt at ease with Prapai. They stayed up into the early hours of the morning once again. Sky knew he would regret it the next day, but in that moment he felt so carefree and happy with Prapai.

He genuinely wanted to believe Prapai's sweet words and promises. His pledge to date Sky seriously even after the show had ended.

The next day after breakfast, they met up with the other two couples again to take the helicopter back to Inferno. Phan and Ple seemed to have gotten to know each other well and liked what they had learned of each other. They were sitting close together in the lobby, laughing about little jokes. But the moment Phayu and Som appeared in the lobby, Ple's attention wandered.

Sky felt bad for Phan. She was really lovely. Sky couldn't deny though that his attention also went to the two men right away. They were talking pleasantly but in a rather civil, distant way. It was subtle, but Sky could feel the awkwardness in the air.

They got back to Inferno, and Sky had barely gotten his bag inside that Prapai had carried over for him when Phayu burst into the room and asked for Rain's time.

Sig was so surprised that he jumped against the wall. Phayu gave a quick apology. Sig waved him off. "Make him stop sulking." He pointed at Rain, and Rain protested indignantly, but he was still pouting.

Phayu smiled smugly. He was obviously happy to see Rain react to his actions. Rain needed a little bit of coaxing but agreed to go with Phayu in the end. Sky stayed in his room for now and told Sig about his adventures in the library. They later went to meet the others for lunch where it was announced that another game would be held today. It was the last chance to take someone to Paradise, so everyone was fired up.

Sky wasn't going to slack off, but he wasn't overly motivated. He had already gone to Paradise yesterday. If he won today, he would simply take Prapai again so they could explore a different facility and scour the menu for good food again. If not they would just spend time together on Inferno.

Sky could tell that Rain was really fired up though. It was a General Knowledge Quiz, and with a huge stroke of luck, Rain managed to snag first place. Rain was not an idiot. He was especially talented when it came to the practical part of his studies, and he did fairly well in theoretical classes when he tried. Still, Sky wouldn't call Rain a fountain of knowledge. Rain managed to win, however. And sadly, so did Phayu. Which meant they could not choose each to take to Paradise. You could see there were actually downsides to being smart. Third place was taken by Plerng.

Once again Rain filled their room with complaints. This time Sky didn't have the heart to be annoyed. He did feel for Rain. Although he and Phayu had already gone to Paradise. So it was not like there was that much more they needed to know about each other right now. But Rain seemed to need reassurance with the amount of contestants having set their eyes on Phayu.

When Rain started walking up and down the small room, Sky pleaded with his eyes for Sig to distract Rain. "Rain," Sig called. He sounded unusually serious, and he never called Rain by his name either. He always called him by teasing nicknames like "Fon" or "Cloud Jizz". Rain looked at Sig, his lower lip trapped between his teeth as he was nibbling on it nervously.

"Rain, don't worry so much. Sure, right now everything seems serious. This will probably be cut out. But you know, this is a dating show. You don't have to marry someone just because you took them to Paradise once. Choose in a way that will not torment you." Rain shut up at this, sat on his bed and looked into the air. Sky guessed that he was thinking. He and Sig went outside to give Rain some space. Outside was an unexpected as well as expected visitor.

"Rain is thinking right now. Please give him some space. Rain needs to make this decision by himself." Sky informed Phayu.

Phayu nodded but looked conflicted like he wanted to storm in and decide for Rain. In the end he turned away from the door though.

"Can you tell him I was here?" Sig and Sky both affirmed. That they could do.

Soon enough it was time for the winners to go to the fireplace. Sky knew that quite a few people had talked to the winners in hopes of getting picked to go to Paradise and getting to know someone once more. Sky hadn't talked to anyone. He knew Rain. He knew Phayu wanted Rain. And he knew Plerng's interest in Sky was based on his brother's interest in Sky. And Plerng joked and teased a lot, but he wouldn't do that to Prapai. There was nothing else for Sky to know. He would just wait for their decisions.

Rain looked at Sky a second too long before he went out the door with a quick, "See you later." Had Rain still not decided and was looking for the answer in Sky's face? Sky sighed. He did feel bad for his best friend. Shortly after Rain had left, the announcement came through. Sky sat up straight and listened. Sky did not make other people's problems his business, but Rain was Sky's best friend.

"Rain has chosen to go Paradise with Sky. Sky, please take your bag, and go to Paradise with Rain."

Sky looked up in shock and confusion. He looked at Sig who simply shrugged. "He chose the person who he would feel the most comfortable with in Paradise." That also made sense. Sky had preemptively packed his bag because he had been instructed to do so, but he had not expected to actually go. He now took the bag though and walked out of the room.

Rain was waiting by the fireplace, giving Sky an unconvincing smile. "Aren't you happy, Ai'Sky? You get to try the whole menu!"

Sky finally laughed at this. He came over and threw his free arm around Rain's shoulder. "I'm not carrying your bag."

Rain looked relieved that Sky wasn't upset that Rain was depriving him of his night with Prapai on Inferno.

Sky was not mad at all. Prapai had promised that Sky was the only one he was interested in. If one night away from him changed that, Prapai was not worth Sky's feelings anyway. Honestly, if it had been Sky in Rain's situation, he might have done the same. Sky was really glad they had been chosen together. They were on a dating show, but they were still best friends. Sky wanted to be there for his best friend.

While they waited at the helicopter, Rain was bouncing on his toes nervously. Sky couldn't blame him. He was also curious who Phayu would choose. Someone chosen by a winner had to go to Paradise with them. They could not refuse. And there had been plenty of people interested in Phayu. Ple and Som obviously. Sig and Phan had not been immune to Phayu's attractiveness but quickly given up approaching him when his fondness for Rain was palpable. That could change though if Phayu showed interest.

Soon enough two broad figures appeared on the horizon. Sky didn't know whether to tease or simply laugh out loud. Phayu and Prapai were putting it on thick, their arms linked together and skipping in time with each other. Rain was still eyeing them skeptically when they were standing in front of them.

"Are you interested in Prapai, Phayu?" he asked directly. Sky was proud of Rain. At least he didn't beat around the bush.

Phayu laughed in answer. "I followed your example. Prapai's nice and all, but he's not my type. Maybe we can hang out the four of us, sweet boy. Let's meet in the lobby after we arrive."

Sky didn't know whether this double date trickery was allowed, but no robotic voice was interrupting them, so it should be fine. They waited for the last couple. Sky also had no clue who Plerng would choose. He just hoped it wasn't Gun. Plerng deserved better than that. Plerng appeared with Sig carrying his bag but Plerng carrying Sig's.

They got on the helicopter, the chosen couples sitting together. At the hotel they were assigned their rooms. Rain and Sky got changed and ready to meet Phayu and Prapai in the lobby. They arrived a few minutes before them and crouched over the hotel menu, deciding which dishes they wanted to order on their last night here.

When Phayu and Prapai arrived, they had to go back to their rooms to get changed because the four decided to enjoy the large pool before dinner. They played around and splashed each other in the water and went to dinner feeling hungry. They ordered a feast and managed to finish almost everything.

Afterwards they went back to Sky and Rain's room. Phayu and Prapai made a short detour to change clothes. They were on TV after all, and because there were four of them, they hadn't eaten in their hotel suite but at a proper dining hall. They had dressed up for the occasion, but lounging around the suite in suit pants and dress shirt would not be comfortable.

They hung out in the suit's living room first, but soon enough Phayu declared it time for bed. By which he only meant Rain and himself. He pulled Rain up from the couch and led him to one of the bedrooms.

"Just like that? You're so sneaky, Phayu. You didn't even tell me anything about yourself yet!" Prapai shouted after him. Phayu promptly ignored him and closed the bedroom door behind them.

"Don't tease them too much." Sky scolded Prapai lightly.

"It's fun. And today was so nice and comfortable. Even after the show, I think this could be a regular thing. We could go on double dates with Rain and Phayu. You're already friends with Rain, and he's fun. And Phayu is a cool guy too."

"You want to keep meeting after the show?" Sky asked. Prapai had often implied that he wanted to keep seeing Sky after the show. But Sky just didn't know what to make of it. There were so many cameras around them. Maybe it was all a rouse.

Prapai looked at Sky, his face full of understanding. "I know you can't trust my word. Don't worry too much. Think of them as sweet words for now. When we get our phones back, your number will be the first I ask for. Just wait for that. You can also give me your number now. There's a pen around here, right? You can write it on my arm."

Sky laughed and hit Prapai lightly on the arm. "I'll wait a few more days. I might not want to give you my number at the end."

"You're so mean," Prapai sulked but laughed when Sky did.

Over in the other room, Phayu opened the blanket he was lying under, inviting Rain to join him in bed. Rain hesitated, contemplating the empty spot next to Phayu. Phayu huffed out a laugh. “Don’t overthink, naughty boy. I’m not gonna do anything.”

Rain rolled his eyes. “Idiot, I'm not thinking anything like that! You’re the one asking me to get in bed with you. You’re the one with ulterior motives!”

Phayu laughed again at Rain’s indignation. He held out a hand for Rain to take and despite his trepidation, Rain walked to the side of the bed and took Phayu’s hand. With a quick movement, Phayu pulled Rain stumbling onto the bend into his chest face first.

“Ow!” Rain whined and rubbed his nose. Still, he let Phayu’s arm snake around his waist and pull him to lie down next to him. Rain snuggled into Phayu’s side. They lay in silence for what could have been hours, just enjoying each other’s presence. Phayu carded his fingers through Rain’s soft hair, feeling Rain breath into his neck.

Rain felt so at peace with Phayu. Their bickering was fun. Rain enjoyed teasing and being teased back by Phayu. He could that it was only playful. When Phayu called “naughty boy” and “sweet boy” both, Rain felt giddy inside. Naturally, it was a huge plus that Phayu had a killer body and a handsome face.

Rain wanted to talk for hours and know everything about Phayu. At the same time he wanted to lay here, just feeling Phayu’s chest move up and down just as much. He just felt so at ease with Phayu.

Rain gave a small sigh. Tomorrow was the last day. Rain knew that this was a dating show and that they were all a little on edge and more emotional, having cut off all contact from the outside world for the past week.

It was actually amazing. It had only been a week, but so much had happened within that week. His emotions had gone haywire and changed his perception of different people within the shortest time. It felt like months had gone by.

Rain wondered how Phayu would be outside of Inferno. Would he come to pick Rain up from university? Would he help him with his homework? Would he take Rain on romantic dates? Would he lay in bed with Rain just like this at the end of the day? Would he even keep seeing Rain after they left Inferno?

Rain shoved the thought to the back of his mind. He would bask in Phayu’s warmth for now. Phayu will most likely also pick Rain at the show final. What happened afterwards and how serious Phayu was about their connection on the show if he was serious about it at all, Rain would leave to ponder about later. If Phayu wanted nothing to do with him, Rain would simply throw himself into his studies to forget the heartache of a man he had known for less than a week.

They had breakfast together the next morning. Phayu and Prapi went back to their room to get ready and get their bags. Then they waited for Sig and Plerng in the lobby. The two of them were closer than yesterday. While yesterday they had been joking, laughing loudly and talking a lot, there was now a soft air around them. They looked more like a couple now.

Phayu carried Rain’s bag and Prapai Sky’s although they technically weren’t each other's dates. The six of them got on the helicopter and flew back to the island. An announcement was made that this was their last day and for them to make the most out of it.

Rain looked at Sky and Sig, wondering whether he was being hasty in running to Phayu right after they’d just gotten back? “What are you waiting for? Go get your man!” Sig called out and Sky made a shooing motion. Rain ran out the door, but he was already too late. Phayu was walking off with Som to the beach. Ple was staring after them forlornly.

Rain sighed. “I’m gonna go to the kitchen and drink some water,” he informed Sig and Sky. They both nodded sympathetically, having guessed the outcome from Rain's expression.

Rain went to the kitchen and looked inside the water bin. It was almost empty. Rain looked toward the beach. He didn't see Phayu and Som, but they were probably still talking. If they had finished, Ple had probably ambushed Phayu next. Rain decided to walk the ten minutes to the place where they had to go to get fresh water. They would need water to cook lunch, and he wasn't interested in talking to anyone else anyway.

Rain walked to the water place. He actually felt a little better when he arrived. For the past week, Rain had been surrounded by people at all times. Don't get him wrong. Rain loved being around people and being sociable. But being around people all the time because you chose so and by necessity made a difference. Rain had brought a clean cup to sit down on the bench there for a moment, enjoy some fresh water and a quiet place to relax.

Who was he kidding? Rain was going crazy with the anxiety of whether Phayu would pick him and whether Phayu would want to keep in touch and even start dating Rain afterwards. Rain didn't want to go back. He didn't want to see Som and Ple flirting with and hovering around Phayu.

In the end Rain's anxiety kept him away long enough that he was found at the water place by Sig and Plerng who had gone to get water to cook lunch.

"Oh Rain, you're here." Sig exclaimed when he saw Rain. "We thought we had forgotten the water buckets at the water place for some reason although that made no sense."

"I went to get water and got lost in thought." Rain explained. Sig only nodded and didn't push for more information. They filled up the still empty water buckets and carried them back to the kitchen.

"Phayu was looking for you." Plerng was being less subtle. Rain cursed his heart for jumping the way it did.

"I see." Rain tried to feign nonchalance. Sig snickered at Rain's obvious act.

They walked back to the kitchen where Rain’s eyes found Phayu immediately. Ple was latched to his side firmly while Som stared daggers at his sister from the side. Rain gave an annoyed huff and carried the water over to Sky. He ignored Phayu wholly even when the older man came over to help out.

Phayu turned out to be a great cook, even better than Sky who had been their resident chef until now. When Phayu kindly offered to take over Rain’s task, Rain let him and asked Sky for a different task. Phayu seemed to want to say something more, but Rain walked away quickly.

Rain knew that this was not the way to seduce Phayu and get him to pick Rain, but he was just so upset. Phayu was already really popular here. Who knew how many admirers Phayu had in the outside world? Would Phayu really pick Rain then?

Rain avoided Phayu all throughout lunch and until dinner too. At dinner Rain stuck to doing chores and not being distracted. Phayu was thoroughly distracted by other people anyway. Som had found his courage again and approached Phayu once again.

Phayu wanted to shout in irritation. He prided himself in being a patient and generally friendly person. But this was truly getting on his nerves. He had rejected Som with direct words after showing his disinterest in a kind way in Paradise hadn’t worked.

He didn’t know why Ple or Som thought they had a chance with him. Hand't he made it clear that Rain was the one he wanted to start something with? Sure, on a dating show everyone could shoot their shot. But if you asked Phayu, they've both shot their shot. Som seemed to have accepted the rejection until Ple approached Phayu without fail and somehow got into his head that getting on Phayu's nerves enough would win him his favor. Phayu tried not to blow up into anyone's face, but their flirting was really testing him.

"One more day," Phayu told himself. But within this one day, Phayu had to clear things up with Rain. Or Rain might choose someone else. Even if Rain did choose Phayu back as his final decision on the show, he might remain upset with Phayu for not clearing things up. If only Phayu could escape these two.

Every time he finally found Rain or was going around looking for them, he was ambushed by the fruity siblings. At last it was their last evening on Inferno, and Phayu still hadn't talked to Rain. While Phayu had been fending off the siblings, Rain had successfully evaded Phayu's grasp.

Phayu was starting to panic. He couldn't let Rain slip out of his grasp. He totally hadn't thought he'd fall for someone when his twin Saifah suggested he sign up for the show for fun. But Rain was so lovely, cute and witty. Rain was perfect. Phayu could feel that there would never be anyone like Rain again. He needed to make Rain want him back and know Phayu wanted him more than anyone else.

After dinner all the contestants sat around the campfire together. They talked about their time on the show and first impressions. Everyone had become really close during their time here. Even with Gun who most of them still couldn't stand. Phayu would love to stay in contact with most of them after the show ended, but Gun, Phayu didn't want to see again.

Som and Ple were also nice people when Phayu overlooked their pushy flirting. Hopefully, they would calm down about that when the show ended and Phayu hopefully went off with Rain.

After about an hour, people went off on their own. Phayu saw Rain sneak off as well. Rain had obviously been bothered by something the whole day. Phayu wasn't oblivious. He knew it was him. There was nothing else on this island and no way to contact the outside world. Rain surely wasn't being plagued by his upcoming assignments.

Phayu decided to go after Rain. It was now or never. Som and Ple immediately stood up as well.

"Where are you going, Phayu?" - "Do you want to go for a walk, Phayu?" They both spoke at the same time.

Phayu gave an apologetic smile. "I have a headache. I'm gonna lie down for now. Maybe sleep early. I'm exhausted."

"Do you want me to come with you?" They spoke simultaneously again. Phayu tried not to roll his eyes.

He had to force himself not to let his frustration show on his face. "I'm going to rest. Stay here with the others. It's the last evening. You should enjoy it."

They both couldn't argue with that, and Phayu went off by himself. He felt a little bad for lying, but he really needed to talk to Rain. Phayu went around the whole island, even to the water place where Rain had hid before lunch. Rain wasn't anywhere to be found. Phayu didn't know what to do. If he wandered around longer, he might be found by the fruity siblings again. But how could he convey his feelings to Rain if Rain didn't want to talk?

The next day everyone dressed up in spectacular outfits and styled themselves to the nines. Sky didn't like it. Thailand was hot, and stylish outfits always involved way too much fabric. And it got even worse.

The final would commence as followed: Everyone got a spot on the island assigned. If their desired match was still waiting for their turn, you were supposed to go and wait at your assigned position. If your desired match was already in position, you were supposed to follow them and meet them there.

As the three people on the island who wouldn't pick each other, Prapai, Phan and Plerng were already standing at assigned spots and would be able to change their spots later if they wanted so to join their match.

Prapai was standing at the far end of the beach, so Sky would have to wade through the sand path along the beach with his dress shoes to pick up Prapai. Sky sure hoped Prapai would treat him to a nice dinner after the show for his troubles.

The order in which they went was no coincidence either. Everyone had submitted their desired match this morning already. Sky was actually the first to go. It made sense. They were an obvious pairing since Prapai had made his sole interest for Sky clear, and there was nobody eyeing either of them either.

Sky came to a stop next to Prapai, and Prapai gave him a bright smile. Next, Gun was told to go. He approached Phan who was waiting under a small hut no one had ever used. Then Rain went. He went to his designated spot which was ironically the water place. It was then Sig's turn. Sig's choice had been unclear at the beginning, but Sky was happy to see him stand with Plerng a few meters away from Prapai and Sky on the beach.

Prapai and Sky were given a cue from the camera team and started their confessions for each other. Prapai promised Sky everything he owned. His prized bike, his penthouse condominium, even his company shares. Sky just looked at him unimpressed.

"Take me out on a proper date and pay for dinner. Then we'll talk." Sky offered his hand to Prapai. Sky didn't care that the producers wanted some grand confession. Sky was this kind of person, and they had made the mistake of choosing Sky as a contestant.

Prapai happily took Sky's offer and hand, and they walked the sandy hill up to the helicopter landing. The helicopter wasn't there as they were all going back the way they came by the ferry. The helicopter was just for show.

Besides, the helicopter couldn't carry all contestants at once. Sky was not looking forward to being on a ship with everyone after the turbulent week and the final decisions now. At least the ones he considered his friends should all have a happy ending.

Next on the island, Ple and Som went. They each went to their designated spot, leaving Phayu for last. The producers were really intent on raising the tension and had placed Som, Ple and Rain along a triangular path. Sky had snorted inside his head when he had seen the positioning chart. Had the triangular path been built especially for the show? Did a rectangular path also exist somewhere on this island?

Phayu got up and walked along the path he had been told to walk by the show's producers. It was a show after all, and they wanted some drama for the viewers. He walked by Som first and rejected him once again. Phayu did feel bad for the heartbroken look in Som's eyes, but this was necessary.

Then he could go either to the right to Rain or the left to Ple. He went left as instructed and stood before Ple. He complimented her and told her that she would meet someone someday but that his heart was already set on someone else from the moment he arrived on the island. Lastly, he finally got to Rain. He stood before Rain, nervousness apparent on his face.

"Sweet boy, from the first day, it has always been you. Please tell me your answer." Rain looked down at him haughtily. If it had been any other time, Phayu would have been sure that Rain was just teasing. But Phayu was so nervous he couldn't tell whether Rain was acting or being real and had already given up on their connection.

Finally, Rain held out a piece of paper. Phayu hadn't brought paper to write to the island. He had only brought a book. To write Rain a note yesterday, he had been forced to rip a page out of his book. He had hated it, but it was a sacrifice he was willing to make for Rain.

"Read the note to me," Rain instructed, that haughty look still on his face. Phayu's heart hammered in his chest. If Rain still rejected him after reading the note to him, he would not be angered, only heartbroken.

"Naughty boy, you've been avoiding me all day. I just want to tell you today: Please let me sing a song for you. Please let me cook for you. Please let me take you out to dinner. Please come to me when you need help with your coursework. Sweet boy, please let me pick you and only you tomorrow as well as every day after."

Phayu looked up from the note he had left for Rain when he couldn't find him to talk to him yesterday. It had been his one hope in getting through to Rain.

An eternity passed as Phayu stared into Rain's eyes and saw only dark eyes. In reality mere seconds had gone by before Rain finally smiled his kind and bright smile. "From the moment you chose me, it has also been you for me, P'Phayu."

Phayu couldn't help himself. He reached for Rain and kissed him right on the lips. Phayu pulled away before Rain could react. They were still on camera after all. Rain was staring at him, mouth open.

"You should have taken me out to dinner first," Rain finally managed to croak out.

Phayu laughed. His boy was so witty and sassy, even in shock. "I will. Anything you want, sweet boy." Phayu reached for Rain's hand.

Phayu cringed on the inside and didn't look into Ple's eyes when Rain and he had to pass by her to get to the exit. All the contestants who had remained had been told to remain on the island for a few minutes more for a last drone shot.

Phayu and Rain were the last couple to leave. At the ferry port Prapai and Sky and Sig and Plerng were waiting for them. A while later they were joined by the remaining contestants.

Gun had a sour expression on his face. Ple and Som were finally avoiding Phayu which he couldn't help but feel relieved about. Prapai and Plerng tried to comfort their sister who assured them with a brave face. Phan's final choice had been Ple. And Ple's obviously Phayu.

"After watching this show, you two won't be able to escape mom's clutches!" Phan teased her older brothers. They both grimaced at each other when they remembered the reason they had even been signed up for the show. Everyone on the boat couldn't help but laugh at Phan's further teasing, "Better enjoy your peace before it goes on air," and the somber mood lifted a little.

Phayu knew he was in for a similar treatment. His parents had been watching him like hawks since Saifah got into a serious relationship a year ago. Saifah would question him the moment he came home. And Phayu would have no choice but to tell him everything since they lived together.

Phayu looked down at Rain in his arms. It was fine. Rain would soon be a part of Phayu's life anyway and know all the people in his life. Phayu couldn't wait for that time to come.