We have not spoken since Mum asked him if he would like to be my friend. He turned the invitation down. Normally I would let it go at that, but I was intrigued to see the book.
This was no mere comic book, which is the reading of first choice for so many young Thais, but an adult novel, judging by the cover.
I already suspected that he was the thoughtful type, as he does not talk much. The book provides further evidence, and has inspired me to have another go at making contact.
'The young one with the golf shorts just walked past holding a book,' I told Mum excitedly.
She looked at me.
'Tock?'
That was the first time I had heard his name. Mum must have asked.
'Yes. I think we should try talking to him again. If he reads books, we should have things in common. Please tell him I would like to be friends,' I said.
'Just friends,' she agreed. Mum doesn't want me to embarrass myself any further, forlornly chasing young men who look gay but really prefer girls.
I almost stopped him when I saw him last night, but thought better of it. I don't want to alarm him. I have asked Mum to sound him out first, though that approach, too, carries risks. It looks as if I want something more than mere friendship.
When I left last night, Mum looked excited about the challenge. I wonder if she can win him over.
I have my doubts, as I have not seen Tock drinking in the area. He may prefer his own company to socialising with strangers.
Like many young ones in the area with little money, he turns up at Mum's shop to read the magazines for free.
He stands over them while flipping through the pages. If he does not pick the thing up, according to this theory, then he does not have to pay.
'Does he work, or study?' I asked Mum.
'I didn't ask.'
I have asked her to find out.
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