[That Evening - Estate Balcony]
Rain found Prapai on the balcony, looking at the stars. His heart pounded as he approached.
"Phi? Can we talk?"
"Always." Prapai gestured to the chair beside him.
Rain sat, gathering courage. "I wanted to talk about... us. About what we are. What we might become."
Prapai's attention sharpened, but his voice stayed gentle. "Okay."
"I think I have feelings for you. Real ones, not trauma-bonding or gratitude. You." Rain took a breath. "But I'm scared. Terrified, actually. What if I can't do this? What if I have a flashback or panic attack during a kiss? What if—"
"Rain." Prapai took his hand carefully.
"Whatever happens, we'll handle it. Together. There's no timeline, no expectations. We move at your pace, whatever that is."
"What if my pace is glacial?"
"Then I'll bring a warm coat," Prapai said seriously, making Rain laugh.
"I need you to know what you're signing up for," Rain continued. "I'm in therapy twice a week. I have nightmares. I can't do surprises or sudden movements. I need constant reassurance and communication. I'm a lot of work."
"You're not work. You're someone worth knowing, worth caring for, worth—" Prapai paused. "Worth loving, if you'll let me."
Rain's breath caught. "You love me?"
"I'm falling for you. Have been for a while."
Prapai's eyes were soft. "But I don't need you to say it back. I just need you to know that whatever you can give—friendship, slow dating, hand-holding in gardens—it's enough. You're enough."
Rain felt tears slip down his cheeks. "How are you real?"
"I'm just a person who sees you, Rain. The real you. And I like what I see."
"Can we... can we try?" Rain asked. "Try dating?communication-heavy dating?"
"Yes," Prapai said immediately. "God, yes."
They smiled at each other, and Rain felt something settle in his chest.