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The Date Where He Demanded Payment After Sex

When I did not find love in a hopeless place

Nathan Chen
The Asian Rainbow
3 min readFeb 17, 2024

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Finding oneself in a situation that seems straight out of a sitcom episode is never the expectation when you’re living it. Yet, there I was, in Bangkok, a city that dances to the rhythm of its own heartbeat, caught in a scene that would make even the most seasoned scriptwriter do a double take.

It all started with the casual flick of a thumb on Grindr. Ah, modern romance, where love — or something like it — is just a swipe away. There I was, an American traveler, armed with nothing but my smartphone and a healthy dose of optimism, channeling the digital dating labyrinth in a city where every corner holds a story.

The night was young, and Bangkok was alive, pulsating with energy and possibilities. The air was thick with the scent of street food and the sound of endless chatter, a testament to the city’s never-ending hustle. Amid this chaos, my phone buzzed — a message from a local guy whose profile picture had caught my eye. He was handsome, no doubt, with a smile that seemed both inviting and mischievous. Let’s call him “T,” because, well, some stories need a touch of mystery.

We agreed to meet for a quick drink at the hotel bar — a neutral ground bathed in soft lighting and the clinking of glasses. Conversation flowed…

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The Asian Rainbow
The Asian Rainbow

Published in The Asian Rainbow

At our publication, we are committed to highlighting the unique challenges and triumphs of queer Asians. Through insightful articles, personal essays, and thought-provoking analyses, we hope to inspire conversations and build connections across the queer Asian community.

Nathan Chen
Nathan Chen

Written by Nathan Chen

I'm Nathan Chen, a queer Asian writer advocating for LGBTQ+ issues, Asian representation, work life & mental health. Let's explore life's complexities together!

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