Kwanruetai rubbed her lips roughly to erase the kiss, feeling frustrated with herself for letting her guard down to a city man. He had kissed her in a moment of weakness, taking advantage while she was vulnerable, grieving over her mother. She couldn't help but blame herself, and the more she thought about it, the angrier she became.
She had never known that a single kiss could hold such power. Her heart pounded wildly, as if it might leap out of her chest, and worse, it left her feeling weak and defenseless—a shameful feeling for her. She'd always scoffed at him, even questioning his masculinity, yet now he had turned the tables and taken advantage.
This insult would not go unanswered, but how could she get even, especially now with both Maik Seek and Samlee being suspicious? She remained silent on the way home, but once they arrived and she sent her mother inside, she called the two of them over to make things clear.
"Listen, you two are forbidden to tell anyone about what happened today. If I hear a word of it, you'll regret it," she warned sternly.
"Oh, come on, Tai! I swear I won't breathe a word. But really... why did that bare-chested fool and you... end up kissing?" Maik Seek said, puckering his lips to imitate.
"Stop it right now!" Kwanruetai snapped, pointing a finger in his face. "If you say one more word, you'll be sorry."
She shook her fist at him, though she knew full well she couldn't keep their curiosity at bay. Maik Seek and Samlee must have seen the whole thing with their own eyes.
Maik Seek turned pale at her threatening stance. "Alright, alright, I won't say a word."
"Remember this—nothing happened between me and that idiot! I just lost my footing, and our lips... just happened to..."
Samlee's eyes lit up, recalling similar "accidental" scenes from movies. "Oh, I get it! Like when the hero and heroine fall and accidentally bump lips. See? It wasn't a real kiss, was it? You're so dense, Maik Seek! How could you not understand something so simple?" Samlee took the opportunity to mock his friend and gave him a light smack on the back of the head.
Maik Seek rubbed his head, looking back and forth between their boss and Samlee in confusion. "But if your lips really bumped, wouldn't there be a bruise or something?"
"What's there to wonder about? I'm strong, so of course, I'm fine. If anyone should have bruised lips, it's that guy," she replied with a slight stammer, though even without a mirror, she knew her lips were likely swollen. It was that man's fault for pulling her into a marathon of a kiss, and she unconsciously raised her hand to touch her lips, making her two followers look on intently.
"Actually, Tai, your lips do look a bit swollen. You might want to put some ointment on them," Maik Seek suggested.
"That's enough from you two! It's late; go home. And don't breathe a word about today, or I'll deal with you harshly," she said, drawing a finger across her neck to emphasize. Maik Seek and Samlee nodded meekly.
"Got it, Tai. We'll keep it quiet."
"You better. Don't let me catch either of you talking about this, or I'll make you regret it," she threatened.
"Of course not. You're our boss; we'd never do that. But what are you going to do about that doctor? He really insulted you."
"Why don't we ambush him at the military hospital? Teach him a real lesson," Samlee suggested eagerly.
"No need. I have a much better plan," Kwanruetai replied with an edge in her voice. She was determined to make that man pay.
"What's the plan?" they asked in unison.
"I can't tell you yet. But just watch. I'm going to make sure that doctor regrets crossing me. He'll have no place left in this district."
"Whatever you say, Tai. We'll get out of here. Take care, and we'll check in tomorrow," the two said before hopping on their motorbike and driving off.
Once alone, tears of frustration welled up in her eyes. She clamped a hand over her mouth to stifle her sobs, vowing that this would be the last time she cried. From now on, she'd reclaim her dignity, and that man would pay for humiliating her in front of her subordinates.
Kwanruetai would stop at nothing to drive Doctor Chatklao out of this district. Soon enough, her revenge would be complete.
Though she reminded herself of her anger, his overly gentle face kept sneaking into her thoughts.
This wouldn't do! She would have to be more careful going forward—she wouldn't let that man take her breath away again.
Just watch, pretty boy. If I don't make you pay, don't ever call me Tai again.
She wasn't the only one affected by the kiss. Chatklao, too, felt its impact. After returning from the funeral, he rushed to shower, hoping the cold water might cool the fire inside him.
No woman had ever shaken him like that. The kiss had stirred something deep, challenging all he had been taught—to be a gentleman and respect women. But in that moment, he'd acted like a thief, stealing a kiss from an innocent woman. The thought of her soft, sweet lips lingered, making him yearn for more.
Chatklao had always wondered whether she kept her hair long or short, and now he knew. When her hat had fallen, her hair cascaded down her back, framing her oval face. She had arched brows like a drawn bow, large expressive eyes with lashes that needed no enhancing, and full lips he now knew were impossibly sweet. He was certain he could have kissed her for hours.
Her slender frame, concealed beneath her dark clothing, had been revealed to him when he pulled her close, and he was struck by her grace. Her eyes flashed with fierce anger, reminding him of a tigress ready to tear apart anyone who dared approach. How had he overlooked her all this time?
There was something about her he couldn't ignore—her unique strength and deep sense of duty. Despite her mother's harshness, she never complained and simply fulfilled her responsibilities. The thought of her mother astonished him even more. How could any mother treat her daughter so?
If he hadn't overheard by chance, he would never have known the true nature of her relationship with her mother. Chatklao found himself in disbelief, unable to fathom that a mother could treat her own child with such cruelty. But Kwanruetai, despite it all, still honored and cared for her mother, carrying her burdens silently.
The more he thought about her, the more her strength and beauty captivated him. There was something irresistibly raw and genuine about her that set her apart. And yet, in crossing the line with that kiss, he had also crossed a boundary within himself.
This was madness! He had to guard his heart and stay disciplined. There could be no further lapses around her.
Kwanruetai would pay him back, she had made that clear. The challenge in her eyes, the way she'd glared at him after the kiss, left him no doubt that she would not let this slight go unpunished. But Chatklao had his own resolve—to stand firm and not let himself fall any deeper.
As he lay down that night, Chatklao couldn't shake the memory of her lips, nor the fierce gaze that promised retribution. For the first time, he felt his carefully controlled world begin to slip, as though he had crossed into dangerous territory—one where a single woman could overturn everything he knew.
---
He couldn't believe just how cruel a mother could be to her own child. Chatklao felt a pang of sympathy for her, wanting to offer comfort, though he now realized his approach had probably been misguided. She was furious, as he could tell from the vengeful look in her eyes. Would it be so wrong for him to admit, truthfully, that he was interested in her? While one of them was bent on revenge, the other yearned to build a connection. This was sure to lead to even more chaos.
Since becoming a young man, Chatklao had never thought about love or family. But today, the thought of a future family crossed his mind. How wonderful it would be if he could marry a woman he loved. He imagined her bustling around in the kitchen, a child clinging to her side, while he'd sneak up from behind to hug her around the waist.
The vision struck him like a sledgehammer, bringing back memories of his parents' love in Bangkok—a love that had remained tender even after all these years. However, his path and the market girl's were worlds apart; perhaps it was all just a fantasy. Still, Chatklao wasn't one to back down from obstacles. He decided he'd try his best to show her that everything that had happened wasn't a mere accident but rather a reflection of his true feelings.
She might raise tall walls to keep him out, but a soldier like him wasn't one to surrender easily. He would win her heart, and the prize would be that sweet kiss from the feisty market girl.
---
Meanwhile, Paoleang Songphon had his driver stop at the edge of the forest, choosing to walk the rest of the way toward a house, carrying a gift bag. He preferred it this way to avoid any of the townsfolk spotting him and running to tell his wife.
His first wife had passed away from cancer twenty years ago, leaving Paoleang devastated. Though he'd had several women by his side over the years, none had given him children. Eventually, he remarried Sunan, a much younger woman who was both attentive and shared a few qualities with his late wife.
Despite the new marriage, he hadn't curbed his wandering eye, still maintaining "small homes" here and there, keeping it hidden from his wife. With his influence and wealth, many women flocked to him, though he kept his affairs discreet out of respect for Sunan, who had borne him his only child, Sanram.
Even though Sanram was lazy and never applied himself, Paoleang had indulged him, hoping his teachings would bear fruit someday. But nothing changed. Sanram had failed out of school, turned to gambling, and still, Paoleang couldn't bring himself to discipline him harshly. His busy life rarely left him time, yet he'd always found space for one woman in particular—a widow named Manee.
Manee had moved from Bangkok ten years ago with her child, and she retained an elegance that hadn't faded over the years. She was the only woman in town who wore high-end clothing, living like a Bangkok socialite. To Paoleang, winning over this widow was a challenge he relished.
He had done everything he could to win her over, even going so far as to bring a luxury handbag from Bangkok, hoping she'd accept his invitation to dinner. But Manee had always refused his advances.
He looked around and noticed that the area under her house, where the motorcycle was usually parked, was empty. Her children must be out working, as always. He wasn't exactly on good terms with her son, who frequently tried to keep him away.
Paoleang called out from below, and soon, Manee peered out, dressed in a floral dress that highlighted her slim waist and hips, making his heart race.
"What are you doing here, Paoleang?"
"Oh, Manee, don't say it like that, or I'll feel hurt! I just happened to have something for you. Can I come up for a moment?"
Instead of inviting him up, Manee came down, leading him to a stone bench outside. She sat down and gestured to the seat across from her.
"Sit down, Paoleang. I'll go get you some water."
"No need, Manee. I just came by to give you something. We can just chat. I had a friend bring this back from abroad, just for you. I hope you like it." He placed the bag with the handbag in front of her.
Her eyes sparkled with interest as she opened the bag, though she quickly moved to return it. "I can't accept something so expensive."
Paoleang pushed the bag back with a sweet smile. "It's nothing, really. For someone like you, Manee, it's a small gesture. Please, take it as a token of my affection."
"Giving me gifts like this... isn't your wife going to mind?"
"Oh, she won't care. We only stay together for the sake of our child. But you, Manee—you mean more to me." His intense gaze held hers as he tried to convey his intentions.
She crossed her arms. "You say that to all the women, Paoleang. If I counted them, I'd find at least ten in this town alone. I don't want to be one of those mistresses."
"Oh, Manee, where did you hear that? Those are just rumors. I don't have any mistresses."
"Only one? Are you finished with your business, then? Because I'd like to go back inside." She stood up to leave.
Paoleang immediately reached out and grabbed her hand, feeling its softness and delicate scent. The widow, still beautiful even with age, glared at him and quickly pulled her hand away.
"Mind your manners, Paoleang. I'll talk to you another time. But if you try this again, don't expect me to come down."
"I'm sorry, Manee. I just felt a little hurt. I went to all this trouble to get this bag for you, and you won't even accept it. It's such a waste to let something so expensive go unused."
"Oh, that expensive?" The mention of the price made her eyes widen, though she quickly masked her reaction.
"Yes, this bag came all the way from France. It's rare, hard to find, and they only make a few each year. Won't you please accept it?"
Manee narrowed her eyes in thought, clearly wanting to maintain her dignity. Seeing her hesitation, Paoleang pressed on.
"This bag was chosen with you in mind, Manee. But if you don't want it, I'll just throw it away."
With that, she swiftly grabbed the bag with a sweet smile. "Oh, don't be so sensitive, Paoleang. Since you've gone to such trouble, I'll accept it. It'd be a shame to waste it."
She clutched the bag tightly to her chest, and Paoleang, seeing that she had taken the bait, decided to dangle yet another lure.
"It's too bad that this style might be a bit outdated. My friend in Bangkok said that the latest designs arrive every week at the department stores."
"Really?" Manee's eyes lit up, momentarily forgetting herself, while Paoleang flashed a triumphant smile.
"If you're not opposed, Manee, why don't we go to Bangkok for a nice meal and check out the handbags? I'll be the sponsor for everything."
"Are you sure? I don't want your wife to track me down and tear me apart."
"No worries. I promise, no one will get in our way. Once you decide, just give me a call, and we can enjoy some good food and a shopping spree," he assured her with a grin.
---
Meanwhile, Chatklao still hadn't managed to see the market girl as he'd hoped, and it seemed she was actively avoiding him. Instead of delivering meals herself, she now sent Maik Seek and Samlee to do the job. Every day, he waited at his house in anticipation, only to face disappointment. And when he asked, the only response he got was:
"Tai's busy. She sent me instead. Don't ask so many questions—it's annoying."
With no other options, Chatklao could only wait. In two days, he was scheduled for an assignment. As the team leader, he gathered his team for a briefing. This mission was a collaboration between the field hospital and the army medical unit, involving doctors, nurses like Panadda, pharmacists, and community health personnel, all set to assist. The location was in the new Mae Fah Luang District, which had recently split off from Mae Chan District.
Mae Chan is a large district in northern Chiang Rai, divided into various districts like Mae Fah Luang, Mae Sai, Doi Luang, and Chiang Saen. Ten years ago, the area had been a base for Khun Sa's forces and a hidden site for drug production. After the Thai army's crackdown, Khun Sa's forces retreated to Myanmar, though drug trafficking continued sporadically. Skirmishes between remnants of Khun Sa's group and Thai forces along the border still occurred, and illegal immigration remained a challenge, with issues related to minorities from neighboring countries crossing the border.
This mountainous region is densely forested, with steep terrain. The north and west border Myanmar, while the south connects to Mae Chan, and the east to Mae Sai.
Health issues in this region are numerous, including common illnesses like colds, diarrhea, respiratory diseases, skin infections, and malaria due to the high mosquito population.
Aside from treating illnesses, the doctors were responsible for educating both soldiers and locals on disease prevention. The military medical personnel taught preventive medicine, which included mental health checks for soldiers stationed at the border.
Soldiers stationed far from home endured hardships, being separated from family and facing the dangers of conflict with traffickers and terrorists, leading to high-stress levels. Injuries, deaths, and disabilities required constant mental health evaluations. Those with minor ailments were treated on-site, while severe cases were sent to Bangkok for further care.
When the medical team went on duty, they served not only the soldiers but also locals from nearby communities, including hill tribes and even people from neighboring countries. The medical team provided care to everyone without discrimination.
"I've coordinated with the village chief and district officials to get an estimate of the people and soldiers seeking medical assistance, so we can prepare enough medical supplies to meet demand," Chatklao said during the briefing.
Missions like these required teamwork among doctors and other personnel. After confirming the number of patients, they prepared the necessary medical equipment and supplies. Nurses were in charge of equipment, while pharmacists handled the medications. Before departure, they carefully checked everything to avoid any oversights.
"This time, we need to be fully prepared. Last time, more villagers showed up than expected, and we ran out of supplies. This time, we expect around one hundred people, including soldiers and civilians, with roughly thirty percent being children."
"We've prepared extra medications to cover any shortage," the pharmacist responsible added.
"What about wound care and medical tools?" Chatklao asked, turning to Panadda, the nurse in charge. She had organized the necessary kits, with detailed lists on the boxes for easy checking.
"All set. The personnel scheduled for the mission are also informed. There will be seven of us this time."
The team was made up of hospital staff and soldiers, including Promate and Sergeant Muang.
"How's the community health side of things?" Chatklao asked.
"All good. We've prepared pamphlets and educational materials for soldiers and locals, including information on sand and mosquito prevention methods."
The community health team would provide guidance on health issues, including mosquito prevention, disease control, and other preventable illnesses.
"Great. On Saturday, the truck will leave from the hospital at five a.m. sharp, so please be on time. We want to get there early and leave in time to avoid a late return."
One of the community health staff raised a hand. Chatklao nodded, allowing him to speak.
"The village chief just informed me this morning that he'd like to join us. He's also bringing some blankets to donate."
"No problem; we could use more help. Does he know the schedule?"
"Yes, I've updated him. He and his team will meet us at the hospital tomorrow morning at the designated time."
"You mean he's bringing several people?"
"Yes, including his daughter, who just graduated in physical therapy from Chiang Mai and wants to help out."
"That's excellent. The more people we have, the quicker we'll get things done."
With no further questions, Chatklao wrapped up the meeting. Everyone dispersed, leaving him alone with Promate.
Chatklao reviewed the documents on medications and logistics. Since starting work in Chiang Rai, this was his first time on such a mission. It was different from his previous duties at the military camp, where he would conduct rounds at various bases.
Promate scooted closer to his senior officer. "Don't you think it's odd, Dr. Chatklao? Why would the village chief suddenly want to bring his daughter along?"
The village chief was influential in the area, a native who dedicated his work to the people. He frequently supported charity events, either by donating funds or by participating. His wife, originally from Chiang Mai, came from a wealthy background and now ran a jewelry store in the town.
His business in the province was thriving, so he had bought up a substantial amount of land. His daughter, their only child, had been sent to study in Chiang Mai from a young age.
"It's probably nothing, Promate. She likely just graduated and is eager to work. Besides, having a physical therapist on board is a good thing—she could offer helpful advice to the patients."
"I heard she's quite modern-minded and rarely returns home."
"And so?"
"Oh, nothing. But I just wonder if Mrs. Somsri might have an agenda here."
"What agenda are you talking about?" Chatklao looked up from his paperwork, noticing the thoughtful expression on Promate's face.
"Well, maybe she's hoping to bring her daughter close to you."
"You've got to be kidding. I doubt it's that."
Since Chatklao had started working here, word of his good looks had spread far and wide. The daughters of merchants and government officials often visited the camp hospital, sometimes not even for treatment, but just to catch a glimpse of him. Many had tried to make a connection, but Chatklao had ignored them, focusing primarily on his work.
"I'm serious. You should be careful. If you end up getting ambushed in the forest, what will you do?"
"Promate, you're exaggerating."
"I'm just teasing, Dr. Chatklao. But I've heard you've got quite the following of young women lined up outside your office," Promate joked.
Many women had come to the hospital not for medical reasons but to get close to him. Chatklao let Panadda and the nursing team handle them.
"You're teasing me, but I hear you've had the daughters of several military men bringing you food. Be careful, or you might get roped into marriage someday," Chatklao shot back.
"Oh, come on, Dr. Chatklao! I'm careful not to get too close to anyone unnecessarily. I promised my mother I'd never bring her shame."
"Not worried about that nurse in the ER, are you?" Chatklao teased, making Promate rub the back of his neck and smile shyly.
"If you're serious about her, I'd be happy for you. Men like us should marry for love, not on a whim."
"Oh, so Dr. Chatklao can talk about love?"
"Why wouldn't I? Just giving you advice," Chatklao replied with a smile.
Promate squinted at him, trying to figure him out. Chatklao quickly shook his head, his face turning slightly red. The image of a certain woman kept resurfacing in his thoughts. Lately, he had even dreamed about her, complete with marathon kisses.
"Oh, I see that smile, Dr. Chatklao!"
"Who's smiling? Not me."
"You're not just smiling; you're positively glowing. You've definitely fallen for someone. Don't try to deny it. We've been close for years; I'd know."
Chatklao shook his head slightly, not denying it further. He had never kept secrets from Promate. Perhaps this was his chance to open up.
"Let's just say I'm not entirely sure. But if I ever am, I'll tell you first," he promised.
A knock at the door drew Manee's attention from her wardrobe. She frowned, hearing the voice outside.
"What is it, Mom? I'm busy."
Manee—or Mali, her birth name—was the only daughter of the village chief, Teuk, and his wife, Somsri. She sighed and went to open the door.
"Oh, busy with what, dear? You're not even working yet. Or maybe you're just excited about the upcoming mission with Dr. Chatklao?" her mother teased.
The fame of Dr. Chatklao Chutathep was well-known across the province. Every mother with an eligible daughter wanted to introduce her to him, many pretending to be patients or bringing relatives to the hospital just to get close. But so far, none had succeeded.
"A little, I guess, Mom. Since I'll be on the mission, I want to look my best. Which outfit do you think? The red dress or the cream one?" She held up two dresses, looking for her mother's opinion.
The first was a striking red dress from a Bangkok department store, and the second was a short, off-the-shoulder cream dress.
"Isn't it a bit much, dear? You're going on a mission, not to a ball. If you dress like that, Dr. Chatklao might just run away."
"Oh, Mom! If you want me to wear a t-shirt and jeans, forget it. That's so unfashionable!" she pouted.
The girl had been spoiled from a young age. As the only daughter, she'd been sent to live in Chiang Mai for a good education, surrounded by luxury. Her mother pampered her with everything—money, clothes, and all the comforts she desired.
"You don't need jeans and a t-shirt. Just pick something a bit more modest. I think Dr. Chatklao likes hardworking women. I want him to be impressed with you from the start."
"Then how about this?" she suggested, holding up a black fitted pant with a three-quarter sleeve, off-the-shoulder top that would reveal her smooth skin and graceful shoulders.
"It's okay, but don't forget, dear, you'll be bending over to check on patients, so maybe..."
"Oh, Mom! This outfit is final. It's a little daring, but so what? Dr. Chatklao won't be able to take his eyes off me," she said confidently.
Mali, petite yet curvy, especially around her chest, had inherited her mother's fair complexion. She had been a cheerleader in high school and the "university star" later on. Her beauty was renowned, but she was particular in her tastes. She only dated men who were handsome, rich, and from prestigious families.
Initially, she hadn't been interested in Dr. Chatklao, but after hearing his noble family name, Chutathep—a famous lineage—her interest was piqued.
"Fine, Manee. Do as you wish."
"Perfect! I'm exhausted from picking outfits. I need to get my hair and skin treatments done. Tomorrow, I'll be in the sun, facing the heat—I just can't deal with it!"
"Just remember, dear, you know what time the truck leaves. Don't be late. You want Dr. Chatklao to be impressed, right?"
"Oh, Mom, don't worry! Dad already called to remind me. I'm sure Dr. Chatklao will fall in love with me at first sight. I'm confident."
"I'm sure he will, dear. I hope all your dreams come true. And I'll be preparing myself to be Dr. Chatklao's mother-in-law. What an honor!"
"Of course, Mom! I always get what I want. A nobleman won't be able to resist my charms. Just wait and see!"