BEST FRIENDS OR BOYFRIEND

Saint POV 

As Shin wants we kicked off the day with the rollercoaster—a decision I immediately regretted.

"Front row or nothing!" Shin declared, dragging me toward the line.

My stomach did a somersault. I wasn't exactly a fan of heights—or anything that involved plummeting at breakneck speeds while screaming for dear life. It's not like I'm scared I just don't like it. That's all. 

"Are you sure we can't start with something less... death-defying?" I asked softly.

"Saint, where's your spirit of adventure?"

"Probably back in the car where it's safe," I muttered pouting.

But Shin's excitement was contagious, and The queue moved too fast for my liking and before I knew it, we were strapped into the front row of the rollercoaster, seat beside Shin, my heart racing.

As we were strapped into the front row waiting and my palms were already slick with sweat. Shin, on the other hand, was practically vibrating with excitement. 

"Hey," he said, nudging me with his elbow. "You look like you're going to pass out."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence," I grumbled.

The ride jolted forward, climbing higher and higher. My grip on the safety bar tightened.  I gripped the safety bar like my life depended on it.  Shin, of course, was grinning like a maniac.

"You okay?" he asked, clearly enjoying my terror.

"Peachy," I lied.

"You'll be fine," Shin said, his voice gentle now. "Just focus on me, okay?"

I turned my head to look at him. His eyes were bright, his smile wide and carefree. Despite my fear, I couldn't help but feel a little steadier. If he is happy that's all I want. 

Then we reached the peak.

The drop was sudden, stomach-lurching, and utterly terrifying. I screamed—yes, I'll admit it—but Shin's laughter rang out beside me, pure and joyous.

Somewhere between the twists and loops, I forgot about my fear. All I could see was Shin, his happiness radiating like the sun.

The world blurred into a chaotic whirlwind of colors and screams. My stomach did somersaults and I was pretty sure I saw my life flash before my eyes.

When the ride finally screeched to a halt, I stumbled out, my legs wobbly.

"You survived!" Shin cheered, throwing his arms around me.

"Barely," I groaned, but I couldn't stop the grin spreading across my face.

He pulled back, his eyes sparkling. "You did great, Saint. I'm proud of you."

That single sentence made every terrifying second worth it.

He kissed my cheek, grinning mischievously. "But don't think we're done."

I pouted dramatically. "Making Your dumb dog's face, cannot escape this, my dear boyfriend…" Shin chuckled saying, tugging me forward. "Let's go, Saint"

Despite the chaos—and my occasional near-death experiences—it was worth it. Seeing him this happy made everything worthwhile.

.

After surviving the rollercoaster with my dignity barely intact, I managed to convince Shin to take a break. We wandered through the park, the vibrant chaos fading into a quieter corner near the carousel. Its lights twinkled like stars against the dusky sky, casting a warm glow over the scene.

"You really want to ride this?" Shin asked, one brow arched in amusement.

"Yeah," I grinned, holding out my hand. "Come on, humor me."

He rolled his eyes but slipped his hand into mine without hesitation. His fingers are warm, fitting perfectly between mine and that small touch made my chest feel lighter.

We climbed onto the carousel, choosing side-by-side horses. As the ride started, a gentle melody playing in the background, I couldn't help but glance at Shin.

The usual playful glint in his eyes had softened, replaced by a quiet, almost serene contentment. His lips curved in a faint smile as the world around us blurred into a swirl of colors and lights.

"You having fun?" I asked, my voice gentle.

He nodded, the smile never leaving his face. "Yeah. More than I thought I would."

The honesty in his words hit me in a way I wasn't expecting. I reached over, lacing my fingers with his, our hands resting between the wooden poles of the carousel horses. His grip tightened around mine, grounding me in this perfect moment.

"Thanks for coming with me today," I murmured, my voice barely audible over the soft music.

He looked at me, surprised. "You're the one who planned this whole thing, Saint. I should be thanking you."

I hesitated for a beat, then said the truth that had been sitting in my chest all day. "I just wanted to see you happy. And I'm glad I got to be the one to make that happen."

His expression softened, and he squeezed my hand gently. The look in his eyes was raw and genuine, filled with emotions he didn't always put into words.

"You're amazing," he whispered. "You know that?"

A warmth bloomed in my chest, spreading through me like wildfire. I swallowed past the sudden lump in my throat. "Only because I have you."

He blinked, taken aback and then his lips curled into the sweetest smile I'd ever seen. "You're such a sap," he teased, but his voice was thick with affection.

"You love it," I shot back.

"Yeah," he admitted softly. "I really do."

The carousel slowed to a stop, but neither of us let go of the other's hand. I hopped off my horse first, then offered my hand to Shin, helping him down with a playful bow.

"Such a gentleman," he teased, but his fingers lingered in mine, warm and reassuring.

"I aim to please," I grinned. "So, what's next,Your highness?"

A mischievous gleam lit up his eyes, and I knew trouble was brewing. "How about the haunted house?"

I groaned, already regretting the suggestion. "Why do I feel like this is a trap?"

"Because it is," he laughed, tugging me toward the ominous, dark entrance.

And despite the impending horror, I couldn't help but smile. Because as chaotic as today had been, being with Shin made it all worth it. Every single moment.

.

We stood in front of the haunted house, its dark entrance looming ominously. Dim lights flickered around grotesque statues and eerie sounds echoed from within. My gut was already twisting in knots.

Shin practically bounced with excitement beside me, his eyes gleaming with childlike joy.

"Do we really need to do this?" I asked, eyeing the place warily.

Shin's grin was as mischievous as ever. "What's wrong, Mr. Tough Guy, Tsunami? Scared?"

"Of course not,"  Ok, I know I lied, puffing out my chest. "I just think it's... you know... childish."

"Uh-huh," Shin teased, tugging my hand. "Then ,  There's no issue, Let's go, brave warrior. This is going to be amazing!" he chirped, tugging my arm.

I, on the other hand, was regretting all my life choices. "Amazing isn't the word I'd use," I muttered, eyeing the creepy mansion.

Shin shot me a teasing glance. "Wait... are you really that scared?"

"No!" I scoffed, puffing out my chest. "I just think it's a waste of time , While we can go for another..."

Shin tilted his head, a devilish grin spreading across his face. "Hmm... sounds like someone's chicken."

"Chicken?" I bristled. "I'll show you chicken."

And that was how I found myself being dragged into a nightmare by a sadistically gleeful boyfriend.

.

The moment we stepped through the creaky door, darkness enveloped us. A low, guttural growl echoed through the corridor and I instinctively gripped Shin's hand tighter.

The air was thick and musty, the dim lighting casting eerie shadows on the cracked walls. Another low, guttural moan echoed through the corridor, making my skin crawl.

"Piece of cake," I muttered under my breath, though my grip on Shin's hand had turned vice-like.

"You okay?" Shin asked, clearly trying to hide his laughter.

"Totally fine," I muttered, my voice an octave higher than usual.

We took a few cautious steps forward. Suddenly, a skeleton lunged from the wall, its bony hand swiping through the air.

"AHHH!" I yelped, jumping back and nearly colliding with the wall.

Shin burst out laughing. "Oh my god, Saint! That was just a prop!"

"I knew that," I said defensively, trying to salvage my dignity even though my heart racing. 

"Sure you did." he teased, his eyes sparkling.

He was practically glowing with joy and despite my terror, I couldn't help but admire how beautiful he looked and his laughter echoing through the haunted halls like music.

.

We continued down a narrow hallway filled with flickering lights. I kept my eyes darting in every direction, fully prepared to defend myself from the next horror.

Then it happened—a grotesque figure in a blood-streaked gown crawled out from the shadows, its face twisted in a horrifying grin, letting out a bone-chilling scream.

"NOPE!" I shouted, instinctively lifting Shin off the ground and using him as a human shield.

"Saint!" Shin wheezed, his laughter uncontrollable. "Put me down,you asshole! You're supposed to protect me, not use me as a shield or to sacrifice me, Idiot!"

"Survival of the fittest," I said, my voice trembling.

The figure let out a bone-chilling scream again, and I nearly leaped out of my skin. Shin, on the other hand, was doubled over, tears of laughter streaming down his face.

The ghoul disappeared back into the darkness and I reluctantly set Shin down. He was still laughing, tears streaming down his face.

"You're—you're so scared!" he gasped laughing. "You are so scared," he managed between gasps. "And it's hilarious!"

"Glad at least you're having fun," I grumbled, my pride in tatters.

.

We finally found a quiet corner to catch our breath. I leaned against the wall, my heart still racing.

Shin nudged me gently. "Hey."

I glanced at him, my nerves slowly settling.

"Thanks for doing this with me," he said softly. " Now I know clearly it's not your thing."

I sighed, my lips curving into a small smile. "Anything for you, Shin. Even haunted houses. This is nothing to me for real."

His eyes softened. "You really mean that, huh?"

"Yeah," I admitted. "Seeing you happy makes it worth it. Even if I nearly had a heart attack earlier. "

He beamed, and my chest tightened with affection.

.

Just when I thought it couldn't get worse, we entered a room filled with mirrors. Our reflections warped and twisted, making it impossible to tell where the real path was.

"Stay close," I whispered.

"Relax, Saint," Shin said, still grinning. "It's just a maze."

"Yeah, until some demon jumps out at us."

As if on cue, the lights flickered and a ghoul appeared in one of the mirrors, its eyes glowing red.

I let out a very unmanly shriek and grabbed Shin, practically lifting him off the ground.

"Saint!" he laughed, flailing in my grip. "Put me down, you big baby!"

"Not until we're out of here!" I declared, charging toward the exit like a man possessed.

We burst through the final door and stumbled into the open air. I was panting, my heart racing like I'd just run a marathon.

As we stumbled out , my legs felt like jelly and my heart was still racing. Shin, of course, looked like he'd just won the lottery.

"Saint," he gasped between fits of laughter, "you were amazing! I didn’t know someone with your muscles could scream like a little kid."

"Glad I could entertain you," I grumbled, though I couldn't hide the grin tugging at my lips.

"I swear, I need to record that next time. You practically climbed onto my shoulders at one point!"

"That's because you're tiny enough to be my shield," I shot back, nudging him playfully.

He mock-gasped. "How dare you use your precious boyfriend as monster bait!"

"Hey, you survived, didn't you?" I teased.

Shin was still laughing, his face flushed with joy.

"You... you were amazing in there," he managed between giggles. "The bravest coward I've ever seen."

"Glad , you like. I just act to entertain you," I said dryly, though I couldn't help but smile at his happiness.

He wrapped his arms around me, his laughter fading into a soft, content sigh. "Thanks for doing that with me, Saint. Even though you were terrified."

I kissed the top of his head. "Anything for you, Shin. "

"You're the best," he whispered.

"And you're a menace," I teased.

He grinned up at me. "You love it."

I laughed, pulling him closer. "Yeah... I really do."

As we walked away from the haunted house, Shin slipped his hand into mine.

"You know," he said thoughtfully, "I haven't been to an amusement park since my parents divorced."

I squeezed his hand gently. "I'm glad we came then. You deserve to have fun."

He looked up at me, his eyes shimmering. "Thanks for making it special, Saint."

I leaned down and kissed his forehead. "Anything for you, Shin. Always."

He grinned mischievously. "Even another set of haunted houses?"

I groaned. "Don't push your luck."

We both laughed, the sound blending with the distant music of the park. Despite the chaos, it had been a perfect day—filled with laughter, terror, and love.

And as I held Shin's hand, I knew I wouldn't trade it for anything. "Anything for you, Shin. Even if haunted houses are basically my worst nightmares." I admitted finally.

He grinned wide. "You're hopeless, Saint."

"Yeah, yeah," I muttered. "Want something to eat?"

"Popcorn! And maybe some churros," he said excitedly.

I glanced over at the snack kiosk a few meters away. It wasn't far, but the haunted house loomed behind us, casting creepy shadows on the path. My skin prickled with unease.

"You... gonna be okay here?" I asked hesitantly.

Shin blinked, clearly catching my nervous glance. His lips curled into a mischievous smile. "Saint, are you seriously still scared?"

"No," I lied unconvincingly. "I just want to make sure you're safe."

"Uh-huh," he drawled, clearly enjoying this.

"I'll be right back," I said, ignoring his teasing. "Stay here and don't get kidnapped by ghosts."

"Don't worry, hero," he called after me. "I'll protect myself!"

As I walked toward the kiosk, I could still hear his laughter echoing behind me and despite my lingering nerves, I found myself smiling. His smile, his happiness is everything I needed. 

.

Shin POV 

As I watched Saint's broad figure retreat to the snack kiosk, I couldn't help but smile.

Today had been chaotic in the best way possible. Our date exactly like the way we are. 

Saint had gone above and beyond, choosing an amusement park for our date even though it clearly wasn't his scene. I knew it as his best friend. But He knew how much I loved it, even though I hadn't visited one since my parents' divorce. And that meant everything to me.

Seeing him overcome his fears for my sake was touching, even if it came with plenty of hilarious moments.

The rollercoaster ride had been unforgettable—Saint clinging to the safety bar for dear life while I laughed my head off. But what stood out the most was the haunted house.

Saint, this big, muscular puppy who could probably bench-press me without breaking a sweat, had been hilariously terrified. His wide eyes, high-pitched yelps and desperate attempts to shield himself behind me were moments I'd never forget.

But despite his fear, he'd stuck with me. He never let go of my hand, never once suggested we turn back. He was always there, steady and unwavering.

And that was what touched me the most.

Saint's love was fierce and unyielding. He wasn't perfect—he could be stubborn and grumpy—but when it came to me, he always gave his all.

As I stood there, waiting for him, I realized something profound.

I'd always believed love had to be grand and perfect, filled with grand gestures and flawless moments. But Saint had shown me that love was also about the small, chaotic, and messy moments. It was about holding on, even when things got terrifying.

When he returned, balancing popcorn and churros in his hands, his expression proud, I couldn't help but laugh.

"What?" he asked, frowning.

"Nothing," I said, grinning. "I just love you, Saint."

His eyes softened, and he handed me the snacks. "Love you too, Shin."

And as we walked hand in hand through the amusement park, I knew that no matter what chaos life threw at us, we'd face it together—always.

.

Saint POV 

As we found ourselves sitting by the park's fountain, the water shimmering under the twinkling lights. We shared a giant cotton candy that was quickly dissolving into a sticky mess between us. Shin's lips were already dusted with pink sugar and I resisted the urge to point it out just to have an excuse to clean it off myself . But now it was driving me crazy.

"Hold still," I said, leaning in to brush it away with my thumb.

His eyes flickered with amusement. "You sure you just wanted to get the candy?"

I grinned. "Nope."

Before he could tease me further, I closed the distance, pressing my lips softly against his. The sweetness of the candy lingered between us , but it was nothing compared to the addictive warmth of his mouth. Shin's initial surprise melted into a sigh as he cupped the back of my neck, pulling me closer kissing me deeply in return.

The world around us blurred—the chatter of parkgoers, the distant melody of carnival music, even the chill of the evening faded away. There was only Shin, warm and real in my arms.

When we finally pulled apart, our foreheads resting against each other, I couldn't help but chuckle. "See? I earned those boyfriend points after all."

Shin laughed breathlessly. "You're so full of yourself."

"Only because I have you to back it up," I whispered, brushing my thumb over his cheek.

Shin's eyes sparkled mischievously. " But I agree... because You totally did. Still you're a chicken on the drop tower."

"Hey! I didn't puke. That's a win," I defended, puffing out my chest like it was a badge of honor.

He snorted. "Barely. I thought you were about to pass out when we got to the top."

"Details, details," I muttered, stuffing a piece of cotton candy into his mouth to shut him up.

He laughed around the sugary fluff, leaning his head against my shoulder once he'd swallowed. "Thanks for today, Saint. It really means a lot."

I tilted my head down to meet his gaze, my heart doing that stupid warm flip it always did around him. "You're worth it, Shin. Always. Don't thank me."

For a rare moment, the teasing vanished from his eyes, replaced by something softer, more vulnerable. "I'm glad you're mine," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the gentle splash of the fountain.

My chest tightened, and I cupped his face, feeling the heat rise to my own cheeks. "Forever yours," I promised.

His lips quirked. "Even if I keep teasing you about being a drop-tower chicken?"

I rolled my eyes dramatically. "I guess love means tolerating your nonsense."

Shin grinned, mischief fully restored. "Lucky you, then."

I leaned closer, brushing my nose against his in a playful eskimo kiss. "The luckiest."

His lips trembled into a smile and he rested his hand on my chest, right above my heart. "Love you Saint ."

He leaned in, brushing another kiss against my lips, slower this time, as if savoring every second. "Love you too," I whispered.

As the park lights flickered to life , illuminating the night with a warm glow I wrapped my arm around him, pulling him closer. The gentle hum of the fountain filled the air as we sat there, tangled together in our own little world.

This day had been chaotic, thrilling, and filled with laughter. But in this quiet moment, as Shin's breath mingled with mine, I knew it had also been perfect. And I wouldn't trade this—wouldn't trade him—for anything.

.

The sky was painted with shades of gray as the sun already dipped below the horizon. We walked back toward the car after finishing our snacks, the laughter from the park still ringing in my ears. I couldn't stop glancing at Shin, his eyes sparkling in the fading light.

"I think that haunted house officially earned me some bravery points," I said with a playful grin .

Shin snorted. "More like drama king points. Your high-pitched scream is gonna haunt me forever."

"Hey, I was protecting you," I shot back, nudging his side.

"Sure, Saint. Keep telling yourself that, At first I was the one leading you out while you clung to me like a terrified puppy" he teased, flashing me that mischievous grin that always left me breathless.

"Details," I muttered, trying to save some dignity.

.

We reached my car parked near the street. I unlocked it and slid into the driver's seat, Shin leaned against the door, still wearing that smug grin that made me want to kiss or throttle him—sometimes both. But the moment I turned the key, the engine sputtered miserably and went silent.

I tried again. Still nothing.

The engine made a pathetic sputter before going completely silent.

"No way," I muttered, leaning forward and twisting the key harder, as if sheer force would make it work.

Shin leaned over the door, watching me with barely concealed amusement. "What's wrong, Mr. Big Date Planner? Car trouble?"

I sighed, slumping back in my seat. "Looks like it."

He snickered. "Wow, Saint. Really pulling out all the stops for our date, huh? Top notch planning!"

I narrowed my eyes at him. "You wanna be stranded here with that mouth of yours?"

His grin widened. "Close to my house? I think I'll survive."

With a reluctant groan, I got out and popped the hood, hoping for a miracle. Shin followed, arms crossed and that annoyingly entertained expression plastered on his face.

"Do you even know what you're looking at, khun?" he asked innocently.

"Yes," I said defensively, glaring at the stubborn engine. "It's... broken."

"Brilliant diagnosis, Dr. Mechanic," he quipped. "So what's the prescription? Magic?"

"You know anything about cars?" I asked defeated, glaring at the stubborn engine .

"Nope," he said cheerfully. "But I do know this is so romantic. "

I shot him a look. "Careful, Shin. You might be walking home if you keep this up."

He gasped dramatically. "The horror! My poor legs are already exhausted from running around that amusement park with you."

I chuckled despite myself. "Alright, fine. We'll walk. It's not far."

He stared at me, wide-eyed. "Are you serious? I'm actually too tired to walk."

"Drama king," I muttered under my breath.

"Hey! That title belongs to you," he shot back, poking my chest with a playful grin.

Despite myself, I laughed and smirked at him saying. "Alright, let's go...It's just a little walk... It's not far."

Shin stared at me like I'd just asked him to run a marathon. "You're joking, right? I'm actually too tired to walk, ai Saint. "

"You said it was close to your house," I reminded him.

"Close by car, genius!" He whined, exaggerating his exhaustion.

I rolled my eyes before an idea struck me. With a sigh, I knelt down in front of him. "Fine. Get on."

Shin blinked, startled. "Wait... what?"

.

To Be Continued.....