Outside, the city buzzed with life, it’s neon lights reflecting the turmoil within Ling’s heart as she stood by the window of her high-rise apartment, staring out at the passing cars and office workers below. Her phone rested silently beside her as a reminder of the absence she felt. The once frequest message from her on-screen partner, Orm, had dwindled, leaving a void that ehchoed louder than any words could.
Their on-screen chemistry in “The Secret of Us” had captivated audiences, propelling them to fame. Yet, away from cameras, behind closed doors, Ling grappled with emotions she couldn’t quite define. The blurred line between scripted affection and genuine feelings, leaving her in haze of confusion.
Orm, too, felt the weight of unspoken words, often found herself staring at her phone, drafting messages she will never sent. The fear of misinterpretaion, of risking their friendshio and profeessional partnership, has held her back.
Their paths crossed at the grand opening of the DIOR Boutique. The event was a whirlwind of flashing cameras and polite coversations. Ling spotted Orm across the room, talking with executives. Feeling eyes on her, Orm briefly look up, their eyes meeting for a brief moment before both looed away. The distance between them felt more than just physical.
As the night wore on, Ling found herself on the balcony, seeking silent moment from the crowd and flashing cameras. The cool breeze was a welcome contrast to the warmth of the party inside. But, the quiet moment didn’t last long as she heard footsteps approach and turned to see Orm standing besides her.
“It’s been a while,” Orm began, her voice soft.
Lingling nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. “It has.”
Silence enveloped them, filled with the weight of unsaid words. Both yearned to bridge the gap, to address the tension that had grown between them. Yet, fear held them back.
Finally, Orm broke the silence. “Ling, I—” She hesitated, searching for the right words. 
Lingling turned to face her, eyes reflecting vulnerability. “Hmm?” 
Orm opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted by a call from her mother. “Orm, Ling, they’re looking for you.”
She sighed, casting a longing glance at Lingling. “We’ll talk soon, okay?”
Lingling nodded, forcing a smile. “Of course.”
As Orm walked away, Lingling stayed on the balcony for a little while, heart heavy with the weight of unfinished conversations and uncertain futures. With a long sigh, she put on a forced smile as she walk inside.