Another Chance

Ling woke up the following morning, heavy-eyed from a restless sleep, her thoughts haunted by memories and the bitter truths she'd uncovered. The echoes of yesterday’s revelations still stung sharply—Sui's deception, Jessica’s interference, and the raw, undeniable ache that Orm had awakened in her once again.

She rubbed her face with tired hands, trying futilely to erase the lingering images: Orm’s pleading eyes in the parking lot, Sui’s accusing tone, and Junji’s quiet but persistent advice. Her heart felt torn, stretched painfully between past love and present obligations. She knew she needed clarity, but every step toward that clarity meant confronting feelings she'd been avoiding for years.

Ling’s phone vibrated suddenly, pulling her from her thoughts. For a moment, dread twisted her stomach, afraid it would be Sui or even Jessica. But relief washed over her when she saw Junji's name lighting up the screen.

Junji:
Morning, Ling. Just checking in. You okay?

Ling smiled softly, grateful for her friend’s unwavering presence, and quickly replied:

Ling:
I’m fine. Just tired. Thanks for yesterday.

The reply came almost immediately.

Junji:
Always. Remember, listen to your heart, even if it’s messy.

Ling stared at the message, absorbing Junji’s gentle encouragement. She knew exactly what her heart whispered, but accepting it meant facing emotions she'd buried deeply—feelings that terrified her because they made her vulnerable. Still, Junji’s words lingered, softly urging her to stop running from her truth.

She put the phone aside, stepping toward the window to let sunlight chase away the darkness clouding her mind. Ling knew she had to face Orm, and soon. Too much remained unsaid, too much left uncertain. She couldn't hide anymore—not from Orm, not from Sui, and certainly not from herself.

_______

Across the city, Orm sat quietly at her kitchen table, nursing a half-empty cup of coffee, her mind equally clouded by restless thoughts. She’d barely slept, the painful rejection from last night replaying relentlessly in her mind. Ling’s eyes haunted her—full of hurt, confusion, and distrust.

She sighed heavily, a deep sadness settling within her chest. Why couldn’t things be simpler? Why couldn’t love, for once, just be enough?

Her thoughts were interrupted by her phone vibrating softly against the table. She hesitated, anxious it might be Sasha, or worse—Jessica or Sui again—but instead found a reassuring message from Freen.

Freen:
Are you okay, Orm? Engfah and I are here if you need us.

Orm smiled faintly, grateful for their concern. She quickly replied, her heart warmed by their quiet support.

Orm:
Thank you, both of you. I’ll be fine. Just processing everything.

She put the phone down, staring into the swirling coffee, lost in thought again. But a sudden knock at the door jolted her back into reality, heart skipping nervously at who it could be at this early hour.

As she opened the door cautiously, surprise flickered through her. Standing there, looking as unsettled as she felt, was Ling.

Orm’s heart raced, hope and fear twisting together as she met Ling’s hesitant gaze.

“Ling?” Orm’s voice was barely a whisper, filled with quiet disbelief. “What are you doing here?”

Ling stood silently for a moment, heart pounding so loudly she wondered if Orm could hear it. Her eyes, tired and shadowed from a sleepless night, met Orm’s confused yet hopeful gaze.

“I—I couldn't sleep,” Ling finally admitted softly, voice strained and vulnerable. “Not even for a minute. All night, I kept thinking about yesterday, about us, about… everything.”

Orm held her breath, barely daring to hope. She stepped back slightly, opening the door wider as an invitation. “Come inside,” she said gently, sensing Ling’s hesitation and desperate for her to feel welcome. “We can talk.”

Ling nodded quietly, stepping past Orm into the familiar space that had once been their shared sanctuary. As Orm gently closed the door behind them, Ling turned slowly, eyes glistening with unshed tears, her defenses momentarily crumbling.

Ling took a shaky breath, her voice quivering as she met Orm’s anxious gaze, eyes raw with vulnerability and doubt.

“Orm, I need the truth. About what happened between us back then.” Ling’s voice trembled, heavy with the weight of a question she'd carried alone for far too long. “When we broke up, I lost all trust in you. I thought—I believed—you betrayed everything we had. And now, with what Sui did, I don’t even know who to trust anymore.”

Orm felt her chest constrict painfully, her heart breaking at the lingering anguish reflected in Ling’s eyes. Carefully, she reached out again, gently gripping Ling’s hands as if to anchor her to this moment.

“Ling,” Orm whispered, her voice thick with sincerity and regret. “I know I hurt you. And you deserved so much better from me. But please, believe me—there were things I never told you, things you didn’t know. Things I was too scared, too ashamed to admit.”

Ling held her breath, her gaze never leaving Orm’s face, searching desperately for the truth she'd spent years denying herself. “Then tell me now, Orm. No more secrets, no more lies. Please, just give me a reason to believe you again.”

Orm squeezed Ling’s hands, gathering every ounce of courage as she looked deep into the eyes of the woman she had always loved, ready finally to lay bare the truth she’d hidden for far too long. But Ling was not over, she could see it in her gaze.

Ling swallowed hard, emotions choking her as she gently pulled her hands from Orm’s grasp, needing space to breathe, to think clearly. Her voice trembled as the words spilled out, each one drenched in years of pain she'd buried deep.

"And what about our house, Orm?" she whispered bitterly, tears brimming in her eyes. "Why are you still living there? Why hold on to something you seemed so eager to forget every time you shared our bed with someone else?”

Orm flinched visibly, the accusation striking painfully close. Her throat tightened, and her voice came out cracked, desperate to convey the truth she had held back for too long.

"I never forgot us, Ling. Every time—every single time—I tried to push you away, it only hurt more. Yes, I slept around, and yes, it was stupid and reckless, but it was the only way I knew how to cope with losing you. Every time I felt someone else's touch, it reminded me painfully of how much they weren’t you. Each time I was with someone, it was you that I saw, you were never out of my mind once"

Ling shook her head, tears now silently streaming down her face, her eyes reflecting the raw betrayal she'd carried with her. "Then why didn't you come after me, Orm? Four years—I waited, hoping you'd show up, that you'd fight for me. But you never came to Hong Kong. You just…let me go. I had no choice to move on…"

Orm stepped closer, anguish coloring her every feature, desperation seeping into her voice. "Because I was terrified, Ling! Terrified you'd reject me, that you'd hate me even more. I convinced myself I didn't deserve you—that I had already ruined everything beyond repair. And then I saw you with Sui… I thought you finally moved on. Who was I to intrude on your happiness, Ling? Who was I to ask you to choose me again, after all the pain I'd caused?"

Ling's voice cracked as she whispered brokenly, "But you never even tried, Orm. You let me believe you didn't love me enough to fight. Do you have any idea how much that destroyed me?"

Orm’s voice softened to an aching whisper, her eyes glistening with sorrowful regret. "Ling, not fighting for you was my greatest mistake. I should have chased you to the ends of the earth. But I didn't. And I’ve lived every day regretting that decision."

She stepped even closer, heart laid bare, her voice barely audible but fiercely sincere. "I'm fighting now, Ling. Because even if I lost my right to ask for your love, I refuse to lose you again without telling you the truth: I've never stopped loving you, not for a single moment. I’m in love with you, always has been."

Before Ling could respond, the sound of the doorbell startled them both, shattering the fragile intimacy of the moment. Orm exhaled sharply, visibly shaken as she met Ling's questioning gaze.

"I—I forgot," Orm whispered softly, her voice filled with both regret and frustration. "Mae Koy was coming to pick me up for filming."

Ling quickly wiped the tears from her cheeks, taking a step back to compose herself, but her heart raced with anxiety and uncertainty. Orm gave her an apologetic glance before moving to open the door.

As the door swung open, Mae Koy stood in surprise, her eyes widening in shock when she saw Ling standing just behind Orm.

"Lingling?" Mae Koy's voice trembled, disbelief and joy mingling warmly in her eyes. "My dear girl, is that really you?"

Ling stepped forward hesitantly, her heart softening instantly at the sight of the woman she'd always considered family. "Mae," she breathed softly, a sincere, slightly embarrassed smile forming on her lips. "It's good to see you again."

Mae Koy wasted no time, quickly stepping into the room and pulling Ling into a tight, motherly embrace, whispering warmly into her ear, "I've missed you so much, child. It warms my heart seeing you here with my daughter again."

Orm stood quietly by, her heart swelling with bittersweet emotion as she watched the reunion unfold. She knew how much her mother adored Ling, how she'd quietly mourned their separation over the years, always hoping for a moment like this.

Mae Koy finally stepped back, her hands still gently clasping Ling’s shoulders, studying her affectionately. "You've grown even more beautiful, Ling. How I've missed seeing your face around."

Ling smiled softly, her eyes glistening again as warmth filled her chest, comforted by Mae Koy's familiar kindness. "I missed you too, Mae. I'm sorry it's been so long."

"Nonsense," Mae Koy said firmly, gently squeezing Ling's hand. "What matters is you're here now."

Turning her gaze gently toward Orm, Mae Koy's expression softened further, hope and curiosity evident in her eyes. "I wasn't expecting to see you two together—at least not yet."

Orm's cheeks flushed slightly, her voice shy but sincere. "We were just... talking. Trying to sort some things out."

Mae Koy smiled knowingly, warmth radiating from her. "That's a good start, my loves. Remember, communication is everything. And you two always were best at making things complicated."

Ling and Orm exchanged a sheepish glance, a fragile smile tugging at their lips.

"Now," Mae Koy clapped gently, regaining her practical nature, "as much as I’d love to stay and see you two talk more, we have filming, Orm. And you," she turned warmly toward Ling, "come around more often. You will always have a home with us."

Ling felt a lump forming again in her throat, nodding softly. "Thank you, Mae."

As Mae Koy stepped outside to give them a final moment of privacy, Orm turned hesitantly to Ling, her voice tender yet cautious. "We still have so much left to say, Ling."

Ling met her gaze softly, vulnerability still lingering in her eyes. "We do. But for now, go. Mae Koy’s waiting. I'll see you on set later."

Orm nodded gently, lingering a moment longer, their unspoken words hanging in the air before she finally stepped away, leaving Ling alone—her heart simultaneously lighter and heavier than before.

Ling climbed into her car, closing the door behind her with a heavy sigh. She sat for a moment, gripping the steering wheel tightly as Orm’s words echoed painfully in her mind. Orm’s voice had cracked with regret and sincerity, leaving Ling’s heart raw and vulnerable. She pressed her forehead against the wheel, closing her eyes tightly, overwhelmed by the emotions swirling inside her.

Why does she still hold so much power over me? she thought bitterly. Her chest ached, a lingering reminder that despite everything—the time, the distance, the pain—her heart still belonged firmly to Orm.

Before she could drift further into her confusion, her phone buzzed sharply, pulling her abruptly back into reality. Ling glanced down, a heavy dread settling in her stomach as Sui’s name flashed insistently on the screen.

She hesitated, fingers hovering above the screen. Her heart squeezed anxiously. Was she even ready for this conversation? Ling swallowed hard and finally swiped to answer, bracing herself.

“Hello?” she murmured softly, attempting to steady her voice.

“Ling,” Sui’s voice was cold, edged with barely controlled anger. "We need to talk."

Ling closed her eyes again, weariness filling her voice. "Sui, please—not now. I'm heading to set."

"No," Sui snapped, her voice firm and tense. "You don't get to avoid this conversation anymore. What’s really going on between you and Orm? Jessica says you two are inseparable, that everyone can see it. What am I supposed to think?”

Ling’s stomach twisted, frustration rising swiftly in her chest. She took a shaky breath, fighting to keep her voice calm. "Jessica had no right to talk to you behind my back, and frankly, neither did you."

Sui paused, clearly taken aback by Ling’s sharp tone. “Ling, I'm your girlfriend. Am I supposed to just ignore it while you and Orm fall back into each other’s arms?”

“You’re not listening,” Ling cut in sharply, her voice cracking slightly with emotion. “I needed honesty from you. Instead, you lied. Jessica, your ex? Really? How long did you think you could keep that from me?”

A tense silence stretched between them. Ling could almost feel Sui’s defensiveness radiating through the line.

"I didn't think it mattered," Sui finally muttered, her voice subdued but still defensive. “Jessica and I ended ages ago—it has nothing to do with us.”

“Clearly it does!” Ling retorted, feeling tears stinging her eyes from frustration and hurt. “How am I supposed to trust you when you hide things like this from me? Especially about Jessica, who's practically been spying on me for you!”

“Ling—” Sui started, her voice desperate, "I did it because I was scared—"

"No," Ling interrupted firmly, her voice filled with quiet resolve. "You did it because you didn't trust me. You wanted Jessica to keep tabs on me—to make sure I didn’t fall for Orm again."

“Can you blame me?” Sui fired back bitterly, hurt evident in her voice. “Look at you—look at how you've been acting since you went back to Thailand. You've changed. Orm is all you think about, and we both know it.”

Ling went silent, unable to deny Sui’s accusation, her heart twisting sharply. Tears blurred her vision as she finally whispered softly, her voice full of aching honesty, "You're right. Orm never left my heart."

Sui took a shaky breath, clearly stunned by Ling’s blunt admission. “Ling… please…”

But Ling couldn’t continue, couldn’t keep pretending. “I need time, Sui,” she whispered, heart heavy with guilt but also relief. “I can't do this right now.”

She ended the call swiftly, staring blankly at the silent phone in her trembling hands. Ling knew she’d just crossed a point of no return. Her relationship with Sui was unraveling rapidly, but for the first time in years, her heart finally felt aligned with her truth—Orm was still, undeniably, the one who held her heart.

______

Sui stared numbly at the phone in her trembling hands, Ling’s abrupt silence still echoing painfully in her ears. She felt tears gather rapidly, spilling uncontrollably down her cheeks as she realized the painful truth—she’d lost Ling. Her heart twisted sharply with regret, knowing it was her own fear, insecurity, and deception that had driven Ling away.

Overwhelmed by desperation and panic, Sui quickly dialed Jessica’s number, her breath hitching sharply when Jessica picked up almost immediately.

“Sui? What's wrong?” Jessica asked, instantly sensing the distress in her voice.

“She knows, Jess,” Sui choked out, her voice thick with tears. “Ling knows about us. She knows I've been lying, that we've been talking behind her back. She’s going back to Orm—I know she is. I've lost her.”

“Hey, slow down,” Jessica soothed gently, her voice calm but calculating. “You haven’t lost her yet. We still have options.”

“How?” Sui asked desperately, frustration mixing with sorrow. “She told me directly—she admitted she's still in love with Orm. How can I compete with that?”

“You don’t need to compete,” Jessica replied firmly, a sly confidence coloring her voice. “If Ling thinks Orm hasn’t changed, that she’s still the same person who broke her heart, she’ll run straight back into your arms.”

Sui paused, confusion mingling with curiosity. “What are you talking about?”

Jessica's tone darkened slightly, excitement evident beneath her calm facade. “I have something planned—something that’ll remind Ling exactly why she left Orm in the first place. A contact of mine at a newspaper is going to publish a photo of Orm kissing some random woman at a bar. The photo is from a few months ago, but Ling won't know that. We'll make sure it looks like it happened just this week. Ling will think Orm betrayed her trust yet again.”

Sui hesitated only briefly, conflicted but quickly overshadowed by a desperate hope. “Are you sure this will work? Won’t Orm deny it?”

“She can try,” Jessica smirked confidently, clearly enjoying the manipulative game. “But we both know Ling—her trust in Orm is hanging by a thread. This will break it completely. Ling will have no choice but to come back to you.”

A cold satisfaction filled Sui’s chest, mingling with her lingering sadness. She wiped away her tears, determination and relief flooding her. “Do it,” she whispered firmly. “Make sure Ling sees it. I can't lose her.”

Jessica chuckled softly, her voice dangerously reassuring. “Consider it done. By tomorrow morning, Ling won’t even think of looking back.”

_____

Orm stood to the side of the set, quietly reviewing her script alongside Freen and Becky. Her fingers idly traced the highlighted lines, yet her mind drifted elsewhere—back to the morning’s heart-wrenching conversation with Ling. She shook herself gently, forcing her focus back on the script, the scene ahead was going to be intense: a dramatic confrontation between her and Ling’s characters, a bitter fight filled with accusations and raw emotions.

Becky glanced over at Orm, sensing her distraction, her voice gentle but curious. “Orm, you good for this? It’s a tough scene.”

Orm nodded quickly, a practiced smile sliding into place, though her chest felt heavy. “Yes, I’ll be fine. Just need to focus.”

But just then, Ling stepped onto the set, drawing Orm’s attention immediately. Orm's breath caught sharply; Ling looked unusually unsettled, pale beneath her subtle makeup, eyes downcast and distracted. Despite her best attempts to appear composed, Ling’s anxiety was evident.

Charlotte approached Ling quickly, placing a comforting hand gently on Ling’s arm, quietly speaking words Orm couldn’t quite make out. Orm felt a pang of envy at Charlotte's effortless closeness with Ling.

Engfah walked over casually, joining Orm, Freen, and Becky, noticing Orm’s intense gaze following Ling and Charlotte. She chuckled softly, nudging Orm playfully.

“Careful there, Orm,” Engfah teased lightly. “You look like you’re ready to go interrupt Charlotte.”

Orm blinked, startled out of her thoughts. “What do you mean?”

Engfah smirked knowingly. “Charlotte’s always had a soft spot for Ling, didn’t you notice?”

Orm hesitated, a slight unease rising within her chest. “I always assumed it was just friendship,” she murmured uncertainly, her eyes flicking once more toward Ling and Charlotte.

Freen laughed quietly, shaking her head. “Come on, Orm, even I knew that wasn’t just friendship. Charlotte’s always been protective of Ling.”

Engfah nodded, eyes sparkling with amusement and a hint of nostalgia. “Exactly. I was actually pretty jealous of them at first. Charlotte never hid how much she adored Ling.”

Orm felt a strange tightness grip her chest, eyes widening in genuine shock. “Wait—are you saying Charlotte actually liked Ling? Like… romantically?”

Engfah raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a wry smile. “Liked? I’d say she was pretty in love with Ling, at least a few years back. Everyone could see it. Ling might've been oblivious, but trust me—Charlotte’s feelings ran deep.”

Orm’s breath stalled briefly, her mind spinning with this unexpected revelation. Charlotte’s closeness to Ling suddenly felt heavier, the gentle intimacy between the two women now tinged with deeper meaning. How had she never realized this before?

Engfah noticed Orm’s reaction, amusement fading into gentle concern. “You didn’t know, did you?”

Orm slowly shook her head, her voice quiet, a shadow of insecurity creeping in. “No… I had no idea.”

Freen gently squeezed Orm’s arm, offering reassurance. “Orm, it was a long time ago. Whatever Charlotte felt then, things are different now.”

Orm nodded numbly, her heart still racing. She glanced back at Ling, still in quiet conversation with Charlotte. Suddenly, the lingering touches, gentle smiles, and whispered words took on new meaning, and Orm couldn’t help the pang of doubt that crept into her heart.

Becky leaned close, softly whispering, “Hey, Orm. Don't let it get in your head right now. You and Ling clearly still have unfinished business. Focus on that first.”

Orm exhaled shakily, attempting a faint smile. “You’re right,” she whispered, trying to steady herself. Yet, as the crew signaled they were about to begin, she couldn’t shake the unsettling feeling in her chest—the painful reminder that perhaps her path back to Ling’s heart might be even more complicated than she'd imagined.

___________

Jessica’s voice rang sharply through the quiet set, her eyes locked firmly on Ling, impatience radiating from her posture. "Ling, your emotions aren't believable! I need more intensity. This scene is supposed to be a fight between two people who can't stand to be apart, yet can't bear to be together either. Show me something real!"

Ling felt her frustration bubbling dangerously close to the surface, fists clenching at her sides. She was exhausted—emotionally drained from the confrontation with Orm, haunted by the lingering doubts around Sui’s betrayal, and now, Jessica’s constant criticism was pushing her closer and closer to her breaking point.

"Again, Ling! We don't have all day," Jessica snapped, her voice edging towards harshness. "If you can't handle it, maybe you're not ready to come back after all."

Ling’s patience snapped violently. Her heart thundered painfully in her chest as she turned sharply toward Jessica, eyes blazing with anger and hurt. "Maybe the problem isn't me, Jessica! Maybe it's you. You keep pushing and pushing—what exactly are you trying to prove?"

A tense silence fell across the set, crew members freezing mid-task, eyes wide in shock at Ling’s uncharacteristic outburst. Jessica’s eyes narrowed dangerously. "Excuse me?"

Ling stood her ground, her voice trembling but strong. "You heard me. Ever since we started shooting, you've been picking at every move I make. Is it personal? Or is this just your way of impressing Sui?"

Jessica stiffened visibly, a flicker of panic crossing her face, quickly masked by anger. "This isn't about me or Sui. This is about you not delivering what the scene requires—"

Ling interrupted sharply, her voice laced with hurt and bitterness, loud enough for everyone to hear. "Then maybe you should have cast someone else!"

Without waiting for Jessica's response, Ling turned abruptly and stormed off the set, her heart hammering painfully, her vision blurred by tears she stubbornly refused to shed in front of everyone.

Behind her, Orm watched in stunned silence, her heart aching at the sight of Ling’s distress. She took a step forward instinctively, desperate to follow, but Becky quickly reached out to stop her gently, murmuring softly, "Give her a minute, Orm."

Orm reluctantly halted, eyes locked helplessly on the empty doorway through which Ling had disappeared. Her heart clenched painfully, torn between wanting to give Ling the space she clearly needed and the instinctive urge to run after her—to comfort and protect the woman she still desperately loved.

Ling fled the set, finding refuge in the quiet solitude outside. She leaned heavily against the nearest wall, breathing hard, struggling to regain control. She’d reached her breaking point—between the scene's emotional intensity, Jessica’s relentless criticism, and her own heartache, she couldn’t take it anymore.

As tears finally spilled over, Ling closed her eyes, her heart breaking anew as she realized how fragile she truly was—and how close she was to completely losing control.

Orm immediately stepped forward, urgency fueling her movements, but Jessica's sharp voice sliced through the tense silence of the set.

"Orm, stay the hell away from Ling!"

The entire crew froze, heads whipping around to stare in stunned silence. Orm halted abruptly, eyes widening in shock, disbelief quickly replaced by an intense clarity. Suddenly, everything clicked—Jessica's harshness, her closeness with Sui, her relentless criticism. Jessica wasn't just directing; she was deliberately sabotaging them.

Orm turned slowly, her eyes blazing fiercely as she faced Jessica, voice shaking with barely restrained anger.

"You," she hissed, pointing an accusing finger straight at Jessica. "You've been playing games since the very beginning. If you think I'll let you destroy Ling or me, you're wrong. I'll deal with you later."

Jessica recoiled, visibly shaken by the intensity in Orm’s voice, but before she could respond, Orm spun around sharply, racing after Ling without another glance.

Orm found Ling leaning against the wall outside, shoulders trembling, tears streaming silently down her cheeks. Her heart broke at the sight, her protective instincts flaring fiercely. Without hesitation, she moved forward, gently touching Ling’s shoulder.

"Ling," she whispered tenderly, her voice thick with emotion and care. "I'm here."

Ling shrugged off Orm's comforting hand roughly, stepping back and turning to face her, eyes flashing with hurt and frustration.

"Stop, Orm," she said sharply, voice trembling with emotion. "I don't need you to fight my battles for me. Just leave me alone."

Orm froze, pain flickering across her face. She took a tentative step forward, unwilling to let Ling retreat into isolation again.

"Ling, please—" she pleaded gently, reaching out once more.

But Ling snapped, her voice exploding into a raw shout that echoed through the empty corridor.

"I said leave me alone, Orm! Can't you hear me? Just stop!"

Orm recoiled as though physically struck, her eyes widening in shock, heart sinking heavily. Ling's outburst left her speechless, her breath shallow. She watched helplessly as Ling turned her back, storming away with hurried footsteps, shoulders shaking visibly.

Anger surged through Orm like wildfire. She knew who was responsible for pushing Ling to this breaking point, and she wasn't about to let it slide.

She spun on her heels, storming back toward the set, her fury growing hotter with every step. Jessica had crossed the line, and Orm vowed fiercely, her jaw clenched and eyes blazing, this would be the very last time Jessica spoke to Ling—or anyone—like that again.

Orm stormed back onto the set, her footsteps echoing sharply, eyes blazing fiercely as they locked onto Jessica, who stood smugly near the monitors, arms crossed in arrogant defiance.

"What the hell was that, Jessica?" Orm's voice cut through the silence, cold and razor-sharp, immediately drawing every eye in the room.

Jessica straightened, unfazed, a contemptuous smirk playing on her lips. "That," she replied casually, voice dripping with venomous satisfaction, "was me dealing with an unprofessional actress who can't handle a simple scene."

The crew exchanged uncomfortable glances, tension thickening the air instantly.

Orm closed the distance swiftly, stopping mere inches from Jessica's face, her eyes narrowed dangerously, voice trembling with barely contained fury.

"You've been sabotaging Ling from day one, and everyone here knows it. Whatever personal vendetta you have ends now. You will never speak to Ling—or anyone—like that ever again."

Jessica laughed coldly, her arrogance unwavering. "Or what, Orm? You'll protect her? Like you've done such a fantastic job so far—"

Before Jessica could finish her poisonous words, Orm stepped even closer, her voice lowering to a quiet, lethal whisper that carried through the stunned silence of the room.

"If you ever disrespect her again, you'll regret it, Jessica. I promise you that."

Jessica's bravado faltered slightly beneath Orm's fierce gaze, uncertainty flickering briefly in her eyes. She stepped back instinctively, a subtle acknowledgment that Orm wasn't bluffing.

Without another word, Orm turned sharply on her heel, her presence commanding and unwavering as she exited the set, leaving Jessica standing exposed and humiliated before the entire crew. The message was clear—Orm wasn't going to tolerate Jessica's manipulations anymore, and from the tense silence hanging heavily in the air, everyone understood it too.

_______

Jessica slammed her office door shut behind her, leaning heavily against it as her heart pounded violently in her chest. Anger, frustration, and beneath it all, a gnawing fear began to take root, twisting her insides painfully.

She paced restlessly across her office, mind spinning chaotically. The image of Orm’s fierce eyes as she stood up to defend Ling haunted her, igniting an overwhelming wave of bitterness. Jessica had carefully built this project, orchestrating every scene, every moment—yet somehow, in mere seconds, Orm had shifted the balance of power.

Jessica clenched her fists, anger bubbling within her as she reached impulsively for her phone. Without hesitation, her fingers dialed Sui’s number. As the line rang, anxiety mixed with anticipation—she needed reassurance, she needed Sui’s voice.

"What is it, Jess?" Sui’s tone was cold, distracted. Jessica felt a painful squeeze in her chest, instantly sensing the distance in her voice.

"We need to talk," Jessica said firmly, her voice shaking despite her attempt to stay composed. "Orm just confronted me on set—she’s openly protecting Ling now. She knows something is going on."

Sui went silent for a brief moment. Jessica imagined her pacing, absorbing this revelation, but when Sui finally spoke again, her voice carried only impatience, devoid of warmth.

"Jessica, I thought you had control over this situation. Why are you letting Orm interfere? I thought your plan was solid."

Jessica’s throat tightened painfully, hurt by Sui’s lack of compassion. She gripped the phone tighter, desperation leaking into her voice. "It was solid until Ling started unraveling. Orm's presence has changed everything. Ling trusts her again—I can see it."

Sui sighed heavily on the other end, irritation clear in her tone. "Then fix it. Isn’t that what you're good at? I trusted you, Jessica—don’t disappoint me."

Jessica flinched as if physically struck, her heart sinking rapidly. The truth she had long ignored became painfully clear: she had risked everything—her career, her reputation—for Sui, a woman who felt nothing for her beyond convenience.

"Do you even care about what's at stake for me, Sui?" Jessica asked softly, her voice trembling with vulnerability she could no longer hide. "I'm risking everything—my entire project—for you. Does that mean nothing?"

Sui paused again, longer this time, the silence painfully revealing. When she finally spoke, her tone was clinical, detached. "You knew the risks, Jessica. Just deal with Orm and Ling, and stop whining about feelings. I don't have time for your insecurities."

The call ended abruptly, leaving Jessica standing alone in stunned silence. Her chest heaved, tears burning at the corners of her eyes, humiliation and heartbreak tearing through her defenses. The harsh realization crashed over her—Sui had never loved her. To Sui, she had always been merely a pawn, a tool to keep Ling away from Orm.

Jessica sank heavily into her chair, overwhelmed by shame and regret. She had allowed jealousy and misplaced devotion to consume her, destroying everything she valued. As tears finally spilled down her cheeks, she understood bitterly that while she was busy sabotaging Ling and Orm’s chance at happiness, she had ultimately sabotaged herself.

_______

Ling walked back onto the set, each step radiating determination. Her heart hammered loudly, her breathing steadying as her eyes landed directly on Jessica, who stood near the cameras, arms folded defensively. Ling’s gaze sharpened, raw fury smoldering just beneath the carefully composed surface she now wore like armor.

Jessica, sensing Ling’s approach, straightened, masking discomfort behind false bravado.

"Ling," Jessica began coolly, her voice edged with practiced arrogance. "Glad you could rejoin us. Are you ready to finish what you started?"

Ling paused inches away, eyes locked onto Jessica’s with a fiery intensity, her voice steady but chillingly quiet.

"What I started? Let’s make something clear, Jessica," Ling spoke softly, each word sharpened like a blade. "Today was the last time you ever speak to me—or about me—that way again. I'm here because I respect this crew, but you and I? We're far from done."

Jessica faltered briefly, a flicker of anxiety breaking through her carefully maintained mask before quickly recovering her composure. "Fine," she said dismissively, lifting her chin defiantly, attempting to reclaim control. "Then let's finish this scene."

Ling held her gaze another moment, letting the weight of her anger settle between them. "Good. And once we're done here," she added, her voice low and commanding, "you and I are going to your office. We need to have a conversation—privately."

Jessica’s jaw tightened visibly, discomfort flashing briefly across her features. She forced herself to remain impassive, nodding curtly in agreement. "Fine. Let’s finish this."

The set went quiet, tension thickening as everyone sensed the shift between director and star. Ling turned her back deliberately, walking back to position with an air of quiet triumph. Behind her, Jessica swallowed hard, understanding clearly now that she had underestimated Ling Kwong—a mistake she would deeply regret.

After the final take wrapped, Ling didn't hesitate, turning sharply on her heel toward Jessica. Her voice carried across the set, clear and unwavering:

"Jessica. Your office. Now."

Without another word, Ling walked off the set, leaving stunned whispers behind her. Jessica, attempting to hide her sudden unease beneath a veneer of defiance, followed slowly, each step echoing heavily with dread, knowing that what awaited her behind closed doors was a confrontation long overdue.

Ling stepped into Jessica’s office first, the door slamming shut behind them with a sharp finality that reverberated through the tense silence. She turned slowly, facing Jessica with eyes blazing fiercely, a fury tempered only by years of practiced restraint.

Jessica, attempting to maintain composure, crossed her arms defiantly, leaning against her desk. "Alright, Ling," she started sharply, trying to reclaim control of the situation. "Say whatever it is you've been holding back all day. I'm all ears."

Ling’s gaze darkened dangerously, stepping forward so swiftly Jessica instinctively stepped back, now pressed against the desk with nowhere to go. "Oh, trust me, Jessica—I have plenty to say. And you're going to listen carefully because I'm only saying this once."

Jessica bristled, trying to appear unaffected, though Ling could clearly see through her fragile facade. "Fine," Jessica retorted sharply, angered by her own vulnerability. "Then get to the point."

Ling took a slow breath, steadying the tremble of anger vibrating through her voice. "You have crossed every single line possible these past few weeks. You’ve interfered with my personal life, sabotaged my performance, spoken to Sui behind my back, and purposely tried to damage my relationship with Orm. Who exactly do you think you are?"

Jessica scoffed, feigning indignation. "Damage your relationship with Orm? You've done that all by yourself, Ling. Everyone can see you're still hung up on her, yet you pretend you're innocent. Do you even realize how selfish you've been, dragging Sui through this mess?"

Ling’s eyes flashed dangerously at the mention of Sui. She leaned closer, her voice cold and precise. "Leave Sui out of this. This is about you and your lies. You sent photos to tabloids, you lied and manipulated behind my back. You turned this set into your own twisted playground—just to satisfy your jealousy."

Jessica’s gaze wavered slightly, caught off guard. She tried masking her discomfort, her voice trembling slightly with false bravado. "I only did what I had to do, Ling. Because I know exactly how toxic Orm is for you. She'll ruin you again if you let her. Sui sees that. I see that."

Ling shook her head bitterly, disbelief written plainly across her features. "This isn’t about protecting me, Jessica. This is about you—your jealousy, your possessiveness over Sui. You couldn’t stand seeing Sui happy with me. And when you realized I still love Orm, you saw the perfect opportunity to destroy me. Admit it!"

Jessica’s mask finally cracked, revealing raw vulnerability and desperation beneath her anger. "You don't know anything about how I feel," Jessica hissed, bitterness dripping from every word. "You never had to lose someone you loved to someone else. Sui chose you without a second glance at me. You had no idea how much that hurt!"

Ling paused, momentarily stunned by Jessica’s sudden confession, realization dawning in her eyes. "So that's what this is about? Revenge? Your hurt feelings because Sui chose me?"

Jessica turned away sharply, blinking rapidly to mask sudden tears, anger fueling her voice again. "It’s not just that. You and Orm... you both ruined everything. She always had her hold on you, Ling, and you never even tried to resist her! You’re going to destroy Sui just like Orm destroyed you."

Ling drew back slightly, calming her fury into something steadier, colder. "No, Jessica. Sui and I are done, but it's not because of Orm. It's because of the betrayal. Yours, hers—lies I will never tolerate again. I refuse to live a life of deceit."

Jessica’s eyes widened in shock, her lips parting in sudden panic. "Ling, wait—"

Ling raised her hand sharply, silencing Jessica instantly. Her voice lowered, icy and resolute. "From now on, you will stay out of my personal life. You will respect my boundaries, and if you ever—ever—interfere again, I promise you’ll regret it. Am I clear?"

Jessica swallowed hard, the fight drained from her body. "Perfectly clear," she whispered, defeated.

Ling exhaled slowly, stepping back as she regained composure. "Good. And one more thing—what you did today, humiliating Orm in front of the entire crew? You owe her an apology, Jessica. And believe me, I'll make sure you give her one."

Ling turned sharply toward the door, pausing briefly to glance over her shoulder, her voice softer yet unwavering. "Whatever vendetta you have against Orm or me, it ends now. If not, you're going to be the one losing everything."

With that final warning, Ling exited the office without looking back, leaving Jessica standing alone, shaken and finally forced to face the repercussions of her own actions, and the painful truth she'd desperately tried to avoid—she’d risked everything for someone who had never truly chosen her.

_____________

Ling closed the door of her suite softly, leaning heavily against it as exhaustion overwhelmed her body and mind. The confrontation with Jessica and the intense emotional moment with Orm on set had drained her entirely. She slid down slowly until she sat on the floor, her phone clutched tightly in her trembling fingers.

Ling's chest heaved with the weight of conflicting emotions. Hurt and betrayal simmered beneath her skin, Sui's voice still echoing bitterly in her head, accusing her of infidelity. Ling had always believed herself steady, someone who built a life carefully structured to prevent precisely this kind of chaos. But now, those walls were cracking, shattered by truths she’d long refused to face.

Her phone buzzed insistently again, and she glanced down to see multiple missed calls and texts from Sui. Ling felt a fresh pang of anger and betrayal; she quickly silenced the notifications, tossing the phone aside. Her heart still raced from the painful knowledge that Jessica and Sui had discussed her behind her back—something she couldn't reconcile or forgive easily.

She sighed shakily, pressing her palms against her eyes, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to spill.

"Why can't everything just be simple?" she whispered bitterly into the silence, her voice cracking slightly.

Her thoughts drifted inevitably back to Orm—Orm, whose lingering presence still filled her soul, despite years of distance and heartache. Ling’s throat tightened, memories of their intimacy, shared laughter, whispered confessions—all flooding her mind. Why couldn't she just forget? Why was her heart still so irrevocably tied to Orm, even after all these years?

She glanced around the sterile hotel room, a place meant for temporary comfort but now felt cold and lifeless. It was nothing like the warmth of the home they’d once shared, the home Orm still kept. Ling’s stomach clenched painfully at the thought of Orm living alone in the shadow of their love. Why had she never moved on? What did that mean?

Unable to handle the storm within her any longer, Ling pulled herself upright, paced restlessly, and finally picked her phone up again. This time she dialed Junji's number quickly, desperate to hear the comforting voice of her closest friend once again.

The phone rang only twice before Junji answered, her voice immediately soothing yet full of concern. “Ling, hey. I was just about to call you. Are you alright?”

Ling exhaled shakily, her voice barely above a whisper. “Junji… I don't know what I'm doing anymore. I feel completely lost. I—I confronted Jessica today about her and Sui, and then things just spiraled out of control…”

Junji’s voice immediately softened. “Oh, Ling. I’m here. Slow down and tell me everything.”

Ling sank onto the couch, heart aching as she began to unravel her painful truth. “Orm… she wanted to talk to me. She wanted dinner, she wanted to explain everything, and I—I refused her. Then Jessica started pushing me about the scene, and I lost it. I couldn’t handle it. Everything inside me is breaking, Junji.”

Junji exhaled softly, clearly feeling Ling’s turmoil as deeply as her own. “Ling, listen to me. You're allowed to be hurt and confused. You've been carrying this burden alone for too long.”

Ling’s voice broke softly, tears slipping silently down her cheeks. “But that’s the problem. I can’t stop thinking about Orm. I’m supposed to have moved on. I’m supposed to be happy with Sui. But seeing Orm again—it opened wounds I didn't even know I still had. And knowing that Sui lied…Junji, I don’t even know who to trust anymore. Who am I supposed to believe?”

Junji’s voice was gentle yet firm. “Yourself, Ling. You trust your heart. You’ve been lying to yourself for years, trying to bury your feelings. Maybe it's finally time to face them, even if it scares you.”

Ling drew a shaky breath, nodding slowly even though Junji couldn’t see her. “You're right. But it hurts so much. Loving Orm feels like it could destroy me all over again.”

“Or it could save you,” Junji whispered softly, “but only if you’re brave enough to let it.”

Ling was quiet for a long moment, letting Junji’s words settle. Could she really risk her heart again, knowing the devastation it could bring?

Her phone suddenly vibrated with another notification, and her heart skipped—this time, it was Orm:

Orm:
I hope you’re okay. Please take care of yourself. I’m here if you need me. Always.

Ling stared at the words, feeling them penetrate deeply into her wounded heart, offering warmth, hope, and an almost unbearable longing. Junji was right; it was finally time for honesty. And perhaps, just maybe, it was time to let herself believe again.

Ling typed back quickly:

Ling:
Thank you. I’m okay. Please take care too.

As she hit send, Ling exhaled deeply, her heart still aching but perhaps lighter than before. She was terrified, yet strangely relieved—no matter how this ended, she finally began facing the truth she’d hidden for far too long.

On the other side of town, Orm stared into the amber liquid in her glass, feeling the familiar numbness slowly creeping in. The bar was lively, a mix of laughter and hushed conversations swirling around her, but none of it mattered. She had chosen this place deliberately, hoping the chaos might drown out her thoughts. Yet even here, in the noise, Ling's voice echoed louder than ever—her words, her eyes, her pain-filled retreat—everything clung to Orm, relentless and suffocating.

She took another sip, letting the alcohol burn a comforting path down her throat. The bar had always been her refuge, a place to drown memories and lose herself in fleeting distractions. For years, after Ling had left, she’d wandered from barstool to bed, seeking solace in strangers who meant nothing—desperately trying to fill a void that only Ling could ever occupy.

Tonight, however, felt different. Orm could sense the heavy looks and whispers around her, the invitations clear in their hungry glances. She could feel their attention, some bold enough to approach, others subtly trying to catch her eye. But tonight, something inside her had changed. The ache she felt was deeper, rawer, and not even the alcohol could mask it.

“Can I buy you another drink?” asked a confident voice, drawing Orm from her thoughts. She glanced up, taking in the stranger’s attractive face but feeling nothing.

Orm shook her head gently, mustering a polite smile. “No, thank you. I’m fine.”

Disappointed, the stranger walked away, soon replaced by another, then another, each attempt falling flat against Orm’s quiet rejection. She had no interest in meaningless comfort tonight. For once, all she craved was something real, something she’d lost.

Just as Orm signaled for another drink, someone slipped into the seat beside her. Orm turned slowly, eyes briefly widening as she took in the woman’s delicate features, striking dark eyes, and raven-black hair cascading gently over slender shoulders. Her breath caught painfully—she looked unsettlingly familiar, dangerously close to—

“Hey,” the woman smiled softly, a touch of drunkenness evident in her playful voice. “You look like you could use some company tonight.”

Orm blinked slowly, taken aback by the uncanny resemblance. Her heart raced wildly, torn between confusion, intrigue, and an instinctive urge to run.

“I’m fine, really,” Orm replied softly, politely distant. But the woman persisted, leaning slightly closer, her voice lightly teasing yet inviting.

“You don’t seem fine,” she said softly, her dark eyes sparkling mischievously. “You seem…lonely.”

Orm stared silently, a lump forming in her throat. Lonely didn’t even begin to describe it.

The stranger tilted her head curiously, studying Orm with a gentle smile, sensing her hesitation. “I’m Mei,” she introduced softly, voice low and intimate.

“Orm,” she responded simply, avoiding meeting the woman’s penetrating gaze again.

“Pretty name,” the woman smiled softly, leaning in slightly closer, tipsy boldness coloring her words. Then, gently, almost conspiratorially, she whispered, “You know, you don’t have to be alone tonight.”

Orm shifted uncomfortably, feeling a sharp pang of guilt even though she’d done nothing wrong. The woman’s proximity, her voice, even her scent, tugged at memories she desperately wanted to bury.

“I appreciate it, but I'm good,” Orm replied firmly, though her voice trembled slightly.

Before she could turn away entirely, the woman gently brushed Orm’s arm, her eyes deepening with quiet intensity. “Wait... aren't you Orm Kornnaphat? You're famous, aren’t you?”

Orm sighed lightly, offering a small smile. “Something like that.”

The woman suddenly leaned closer, her voice softening with genuine admiration. “I loved your series. Your chemistry with Lingling Kwong was amazing. Are you two still friends?”

Orm’s heart tightened painfully at the mention of Ling’s name. She looked away, masking the sadness quickly. “Thank you, but that’s in the past.”

The woman seemed genuinely intrigued, gently placing her hand atop Orm’s, fingertips brushing Orm's wrist softly. “Well, if Lingling Kwong really moved on, that’s her loss.”

Orm withdrew her hand quickly, heart clenching painfully. “Thanks,” she murmured quietly, unable to hold the stranger’s gaze any longer.

Mei sighed lightly, sensing the invisible wall Orm had erected. She finished her drink before rising slowly, swaying slightly with her tipsiness. Her expression turned playful again as she left a card on the counter. “If you change your mind, call me,” she whispered, smiling gently before stepping away into the crowd.

Orm exhaled shakily, her heart racing with sudden guilt. She was no longer that person who sought comfort in meaningless encounters. Ling had changed her, awakened the truth she’d tried so desperately to forget. Yet, as she sat there, numb and vulnerable, Orm had no idea that someone had been quietly taking photographs from a distance, capturing images that would soon ignite a scandal—moments frozen at angles that could tell a story far from the truth.

In that moment, unaware of the impending storm, Orm paid her tab, slipping quietly out into the night—alone, heart heavy, oblivious to the chaos that awaited her.

___

Jessica leaned back into her office chair, her fingertips drumming anxiously against the polished wood surface of her desk. Her eyes, sharp and calculating, lingered over the photographs sprawled in front of her—images that painted Orm in a suggestive, compromising light. Though nothing actually happened between Orm and Mei, the carefully angled shots whispered scandal and intimacy, enough to twist perceptions and fuel gossip.

Jessica’s phone vibrated sharply, drawing her attention away from the incriminating photographs. Her heart leapt as she read Sui’s name on the screen. Quickly composing herself, she answered.

“Hello, Sui,” Jessica greeted cautiously, keeping her voice steady despite the storm swirling inside her chest.

“Jessica, what’s happening?” Sui’s voice was tight with anxiety, edged with frustration and suspicion. “I’ve been trying to call Ling, but she's not answering. Did something else happen?”

Jessica leaned back, exhaling softly before speaking, her tone measured but reassuring. “Don’t worry, Sui. Ling’s upset, yes—but that’s because she's confused. Orm’s still affecting her judgment. I told you, I’d handle it, and I did.”

A tense silence hovered momentarily before Sui spoke again, her voice filled with doubt. “How exactly? What did you do, Jessica?”

Jessica’s eyes narrowed slightly, a dangerous gleam crossing her expression. “I took care of it. In a few hours, everyone will see Orm exactly the way we want them to. Ling won’t risk her reputation for someone who’s clearly moved on to casual flings.”

Sui paused, her breathing hitching audibly on the other side of the line. “What did you do?”

Jessica hesitated only briefly before her voice turned cold, firm with resolve. “I arranged for some photographs of Orm to be leaked to the media. It’ll look like she's been hooking up, cheating, careless. Ling won’t stay blind to that.”

Another tense silence lingered, stretching painfully between them, until Sui whispered brokenly, “I hope you’re right, Jessica. Because right now… it feels like I’m losing her. I can't lose Ling—not to Orm.”

Jessica’s chest tightened at the raw emotion in Sui’s voice, her own feelings dangerously close to the surface. “Trust me, Sui,” she whispered firmly, her tone softening with genuine affection. “I won’t let that happen. I'll do whatever it takes.”

The line went silent again before Sui finally spoke, exhaustion and vulnerability evident. “Thank you, Jessica. I don't know what I’d do without you.”

Jessica swallowed down the bitter ache rising in her chest, managing a weak smile despite knowing Sui couldn’t see her. “You don’t have to thank me, Sui. I'd do anything for you.”

She ended the call, staring blankly at her phone, knowing deep inside that her devotion to Sui wasn’t returned—yet still unable to stop herself from trying. Jessica sighed heavily, turning her attention back to the photos, her heart tightening painfully. She knew she was risking everything, her career, the project—but for Sui, she’d willingly burn the world.

In a few hours, Orm’s reputation would suffer, and Ling would pull away, Jessica was sure of it. She convinced herself that her actions were justified—that this was necessary to protect Sui’s heart, and by extension, her own.

Yet beneath the cold certainty, a small voice whispered doubt, quietly accusing Jessica of pushing the limits too far, of risking everything for someone who’d never truly belong to her.

__________

Back in Ling’s hotel suite, Junji was sitting quietly on the couch, scrolling absentmindedly through social media, her mind still heavy with everything Ling had confided. She had just taken another sip of tea when her fingers froze on the screen, eyes widening in shock.

“Oh my god…” Junji whispered, her voice tight with disbelief, eyes glued to her phone as she rapidly scanned the pictures appearing in her feed.

Ling, standing near the kitchen counter, felt the sudden shift in Junji’s energy and immediately looked up, anxiety spiking at the obvious tension radiating from her friend.

“What is it, Junji? What's wrong?” Ling asked sharply, crossing the room swiftly, worry tightening her chest.

Junji hesitated, glancing nervously from her phone to Ling, clearly conflicted about what she should say next. She swallowed hard, dread settling heavily in her gut. “Ling... it’s—it’s Orm. There's something online…”

Ling reached out instantly, anxiety spiraling rapidly inside her. “What about Orm? Junji, tell me!”

Junji reluctantly handed her phone to Ling, watching carefully as Ling’s eyes scanned the screen. Ling’s breath caught painfully in her throat as she stared down at the photos—the grainy images of Orm in a dimly lit bar, laughing intimately with an unknown woman, their faces close enough to imply far more than just casual conversation.

Ling felt her heartbeat accelerate painfully, a sharp stab of jealousy and hurt piercing her chest. Her fingers tightened around the phone, disbelief quickly morphing into bitter anger.

“When… when were these taken?” Ling asked, her voice low and tight, eyes still fixed on the screen, each image slicing through her defenses like a fresh blade.

Junji looked at her friend carefully, a wave of sympathy and concern washing over her. “According to the caption, they were taken last night.”

Ling’s head snapped up sharply, eyes narrowing in suspicion and disbelief. “No, that's impossible. Orm wouldn't—she couldn't—”

Junji nodded slowly, cautiously placing a comforting hand on Ling’s trembling arm. “I know, Ling. I don't think it’s true either, but that's what the media is already saying. Someone clearly wants it to look bad.”

Ling took a shaky breath, anger now mingling with her hurt. She stared at the images again, her thoughts racing chaotically. Something felt off, wrong even—but the sting of jealousy twisted deep, making clarity impossible.

Her voice was barely a whisper, tinged with both pain and vulnerability. “Why would she do this, Junji? After everything, why now?”

Junji sighed softly, sensing how deeply shaken Ling was. She gently squeezed her friend’s shoulder, offering quiet reassurance. “Ling, maybe there’s more to this. You know how these tabloids are. Don’t jump to conclusions just yet.”

Ling exhaled heavily, handing the phone back to Junji, heart heavy with bitterness and confusion. “I thought I knew her... but maybe I was wrong.”

Junji hesitated, her heart aching for Ling. “Talk to her, Ling. Give Orm a chance to explain—don’t jump to conclusions yet.”

But Ling shook her head, stepping back and turning away abruptly. “I can’t, Junji. Not now. Not again.”

Junji watched sadly as Ling retreated, heartbroken and lost. Ling’s walls were rising once again, shutting out everything—and everyone—in an attempt to protect herself from further pain.

Yet deep inside, Ling’s heart ached, desperately hoping this was all a mistake. Because beneath her anger and jealousy, one truth remained painfully clear: despite everything, Orm still held her heart, and that truth terrified her more than anything else.

Ling didn't hesitate—not even for a second. The ache in her chest burned too fiercely, pushing her beyond reason. Without another word to Junji, she grabbed her keys and stormed out of the suite, determination overriding the panic and jealousy spiraling within her.

“Ling! Wait!” Junji called urgently, scrambling up from the couch and rushing after her friend, worry clear in her voice.

But Ling was already halfway to the elevator, her jaw set in painful determination. Junji caught up just as Ling reached the elevator, gripping her arm gently to slow her down.

“Ling, calm down. You’re not thinking clearly,” Junji said softly, eyes pleading for her friend to reconsider. “Maybe you shouldn’t go like this—not when you’re upset.”

Ling turned sharply, eyes blazing, her voice shaking with barely controlled emotion. “I have to, Junji. If there’s someone who deserves answers right now, it’s me. I can’t keep pretending this doesn’t affect me.”

Junji held her gaze for a moment, understanding the raw desperation behind Ling’s anger. She sighed, relenting, knowing nothing she said would stop Ling now. “Fine—but let me drive. You’re too emotional for this.”

“No,” Ling replied firmly, stubbornly shaking her head as she opened her car door. “I need to do this alone.”

Junji gave Ling a resigned nod, worry etched deeply into her features as she watched Ling start the engine and speed off into the night.

—

Ling drove recklessly, the images of Orm with another woman flashing endlessly in her mind. Each mile brought a fresh wave of pain, confusion, and jealousy that she had no right to feel—but couldn’t stop. Her heart thudded erratically against her ribs, adrenaline coursing sharply through her veins. She needed answers—now.

When she finally pulled into Orm’s driveway, her pulse was pounding so hard she could barely think straight. The familiar house, lit softly in the evening twilight, seemed to mock her, reminding her cruelly of everything she'd lost—and everything she feared Orm had given away to others.

Her hands trembled as she stepped out of the car, anger mixing with fear, dread, and a deeper pain that she couldn’t quite face yet. Without hesitating, she marched up to the door and knocked forcefully, barely able to contain the storm of emotions building inside.

Orm opened the door cautiously, surprised to find Ling standing on her doorstep, eyes blazing with a fury she'd rarely witnessed. Her heart jumped anxiously at Ling’s stormy expression, the sharp accusation clearly written across her face.

Before Orm could speak, Ling stepped briskly inside, thrusting her phone in Orm’s face, her hands visibly trembling.

"What the hell is this, Orm?" Ling's voice shook dangerously, each word brimming with hurt and anger as she scrolled through the photos: images of Orm at the bar, laughing carelessly, intimately close with another woman. "Is this how you cope now—drinking yourself numb and picking up strangers? Do you even realize what you’re doing?"

Orm felt her breath catch painfully, eyes widening with shock as she stared helplessly at the pictures. Her stomach twisted violently, realizing how it looked from Ling’s perspective. Panic and shame surged through her veins.

"Ling, please—" Orm started desperately, reaching out instinctively. "It's not what you think. She means nothing—I swear."

Ling laughed bitterly, her voice filled with disbelief and heartache. "Means nothing? Just like Sasha meant nothing? Or all the others? You’ve been saying that for years, Orm. How am I supposed to believe you now?"

Orm’s heart cracked painfully at Ling’s biting words, the sting of truth slicing deeply. Her throat tightened as tears filled her eyes. "Ling, listen to me. I haven’t touched anyone since you came back. Not Sasha, not anyone else. This woman—I barely spoke to her. I left alone, I promise."

Ling scoffed bitterly, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, hurt and anger making her voice unsteady. "How can I trust you, Orm? How can I trust anything you say when you keep doing this to yourself? To us?"

Orm flinched at Ling’s accusation, the sting of the words hitting painfully close to home. Her voice softened to a broken whisper, heavy with regret and vulnerability. "You’re right, Ling. I have made mistakes. I hurt myself because losing you was too much to bear. But you have to believe me—this time, I didn’t do anything. I swear on my life."

Ling stepped back, her anger slightly faltering at the raw desperation in Orm's voice, her heart wavering at the sincerity radiating from Orm’s tearful gaze. Her chest tightened painfully, torn between wanting to trust Orm and fearing another betrayal.

Her voice came out shaky, quieter this time but edged with lingering pain. "How can I believe you, Orm? How can I trust you again if you couldn’t even fight for us in the first place? You stayed here, living our memories, but you never came to Hong Kong. You let me go so easily, Orm. And now this? It’s too much."

Orm flinched visibly, Ling’s words tearing open old wounds, every syllable lancing straight through her heart. Tears spilled silently down her cheeks as she whispered desperately, her voice fragile and sincere, pleading for understanding. "Ling, please... I stayed here because leaving this place would mean accepting you were gone forever. I wanted to go after you, countless times. But every time, fear stopped me—fear that you'd reject me again, fear that you deserved someone better than the broken mess I had become."

Ling’s breath hitched painfully, her eyes locking with Orm’s tearful gaze. Her anger softened briefly into sorrow, before hardening once more. "Then stop hurting yourself, Orm. Stop hurting me. Just—stop."

Before Orm could reply, Ling turned away abruptly, heading quickly toward the door. Orm stood frozen, a painful sob catching in her throat, unable to stop Ling as she walked away, leaving behind only a devastating silence.

As Ling slammed the door behind her, Orm’s legs finally gave way, and she sank onto the floor, tears silently streaming down her face. She hugged her knees tightly, her entire body trembling with a raw, anguished realization—she had never stopped loving Ling, and now, once again, her own mistakes had driven her further away.

Inside the house, Orm stood silently beside Mae Koy, her heart shattering anew, hopelessness settling deeper into her chest.

“She still loves you,” Mae Koy whispered gently, watching Ling’s car disappear down the street.

Orm nodded numbly, tears silently tracing down her cheeks. “But she doesn't trust me anymore. And maybe she never will.”

Mae Koy reached out, squeezing Orm’s hand reassuringly. “Then show her she can, Orm. It’s not too late—not yet.”

Orm closed her eyes tightly, clinging desperately to those words, even as fear whispered cruelly in her mind that it was already too late—that the damage she'd caused was beyond repair. But deep inside, Orm knew one thing with absolute clarity: she’d fight, with every breath she had left, for Ling’s trust—because her heart belonged nowhere else.