Danger ⚠️

The early morning light filters through the bedroom, casting a soft golden hue over their tangled sheets. Orm stirs first, feeling the warmth of Ling’s body pressed against hers. There’s no rush to move, no urgency—just the quiet, blissful stillness of having her wife home, right where she belongs. Orm watches Ling sleep for a moment, the peaceful rise and fall of her chest, the way her lips are slightly parted. She looks so soft, so undeniably hers.

Orm brushes her fingers over Ling’s cheek, smiling to herself. She wants to let her sleep, to savor this moment, but before she can stop herself, she leans in and presses a feather-light kiss to Ling’s shoulder.

“Mmm,” Ling stirs, stretching like a lazy cat before turning toward Orm. Her voice is husky, still laced with sleep. “You’re staring.”

Orm grins. “I’m allowed to stare at my wife.”

Ling chuckles, eyes still half-lidded. “Keep looking at me like that, and we won’t be leaving this bed anytime soon.”

Orm hums in amusement, tucking a strand of Ling’s hair behind her ear. “Tempting. But I’d rather feed you first before I make you mine again.”

Ling’s laughter vibrates against Orm’s skin as she pulls her closer, their noses brushing. “I love waking up next to you.”

“I love waking up to my wife,” Orm murmurs, kissing the tip of Ling’s nose before finally forcing herself to roll over and reach for her phone.

That’s when her peaceful bubble shatters.

Her notifications are flooded. Her wife’s name is everywhere.

Orm frowns, scrolling through the trending topics.

“Lingling Kwong drops Hollywood—why did she really leave?”
“Ling Kwong’s shocking exit: was it for love or scandal?”
“Sources claim Ruby Rose & Ling Kwong were ‘closer than expected’—Did Orm Kornnaphat know?”
“Hollywood’s rising star quits overnight—inside the breakup rumors that won’t die.”

Orm sits up abruptly, her jaw clenching. Ling, noticing the shift in energy, props herself up on her elbows. “What’s wrong, baby?”

Orm exhales sharply, handing Ling her phone. “You’re trending.”

Ling blinks, taking the device and skimming through the headlines. A slow, annoyed sigh escapes her lips. “Of course they’d twist the story.”

Orm folds her arms, watching her closely. “Did you expect anything less?”

Ling scoffs, shaking her head. “No. But I thought maybe—for once—they wouldn’t make up a cheating scandal.”

Orm raises an eyebrow. “You’re really surprised they dragged Ruby into this? Given that ridiculous photoshoot and her little stunt before I left?”

Ling sighs, rubbing her temple but also guilt taking her. “It’s exhausting. I didn’t leave because of Ruby. I left because I hated how Hollywood worked, and I didn’t want to be apart from you.”

Orm’s expression softens slightly. “I know that. But the internet doesn’t.”

Ling tosses the phone onto the bed, shifting so she’s straddling Orm’s lap. “Do you believe me, baby?”

Orm exhales, gripping Ling’s waist gently. “Of course I do. I trust you. But I also know you’re keeping something from me. I know you Ling.”

Ling freezes for a fraction of a second.

Orm catches it. Her gaze sharpens. “You’re telling me everything later. I don’t care if it’s uncomfortable—I want to know.”

Ling hesitates, then nods. “I will baby but you have nothing to worry abou.”

Orm searches her eyes for a moment before sighing, kissing her cheek. “Alright, let’s eat before I lose my mind reading these comments.”

_____

The aroma of fresh coffee and warm pastries fills the kitchen as Ling plates their breakfast. Orm watches her, heart swelling at the sight of Ling moving around their home so effortlessly, like she belongs nowhere else.

They sit across from each other, eating slowly, basking in the quiet domesticity.

Then, Orm clears her throat, setting her fork down. “So… about what you said last night.”

Ling pauses mid-bite, looking at her wife curiously. “Yeah?”

Orm’s fingers drum against the table. “You said you wanted to carry my child.”

Ling watches her, reading her face. “Are you overwhelmed?”

“No,” Orm says immediately. Then, softer, “I just… want to know how long you’ve been thinking about it.”

Ling smiles gently, reaching for Orm’s hand. “Since the first time I imagined forever with you.”

Orm’s breath catches. She squeezes Ling’s hand. “And you’re really sure? This is what you want?”

Ling nods without hesitation. “I don’t just want a life with you, Orm. I want a family with you. I want little feet running through this house, I want to hear them calling you ‘Mama Orm’ and me ‘Mama Ling.’” Her voice softens. “And I want to carry our child.”

Orm swallows past the lump in her throat. “You make it sound so easy.”

Ling smiles, brushing her thumb over Orm’s knuckles. “Because I know, no matter what, we’ll figure it out together.”

Orm exhales slowly, nodding. “Alright. We’re doing this.”

Ling’s smile brightens. “Yeah?”

Orm nods again, eyes filled with love. “Yeah, baby.”

Ling beams, leaning over the table to kiss her.

Later on, the late morning sun filtered through the large windows of their bedroom as Orm finished buttoning up her crisp white shirt, rolling the sleeves up slightly. Ling, standing by the dresser, slipped on a delicate necklace, adjusting it in the mirror. Their morning had been warm, full of love and quiet smiles over breakfast, but there was still something lingering between them.

Orm noticed it immediately. Ling wasn’t as chatty as usual. She was hesitating, like there was something she wanted to say but didn’t know how.

Orm, always perceptive when it came to Ling, turned around and leaned against the dresser, arms crossed. “Alright, baby. What is it?”

Ling froze slightly before exhaling, turning to face Orm. “I need to tell you something before we leave.”

Orm narrowed her eyes, sensing the shift in her wife’s tone. “What is it?”

Ling hesitated for just a second before she forced herself to speak. “Ruby… tried to kiss me.”

Silence.

Orm didn’t move. Didn’t blink. For a few agonizing seconds, the room felt like it had dropped ten degrees.

Then—

“She what?” Orm’s voice was calm. Too calm.

Ling swallowed. “I slapped her. Hard. I shut it down instantly, Orm. I would never—”

Orm clenched her jaw, stepping forward. “That bitch thought she could kiss my wife?”

Ling reached for her, placing both hands on Orm’s chest, trying to ground her. “I took care of it, love. She won’t ever come near me again.”

Orm scoffed, shaking her head as she processed the information. Her mind was spinning with images she didn’t want—Ruby, touching Ling. Ruby, thinking she had a chance. Ruby, disrespecting their marriage like it meant nothing.

“You should’ve told me right away,” Orm finally said, her voice tight. “Why did you wait?”

Ling sighed, guilt pooling in her stomach. “Because I knew you’d get mad, and you’ve already been dealing with my confession about babies. I didn’t want to add to it.”

Orm let out a humorless laugh, stepping away slightly. “You didn’t want to add to it? Ling, do you know how fucking crazy that makes me?” Her voice was low, sharp with frustration.

Ling felt her chest tighten. “I know, baby, I know. I just—” She grabbed Orm’s hands before she could pull away completely. “Look at me.”

Orm did, but her jaw was still tight, her body tense.

“I love you,” Ling whispered, her voice fierce with conviction. “You are the only person I have ever wanted. You are the only person I will ever want.” She squeezed Orm’s hands, searching her eyes. “I married you. I want to carry your child. I left Hollywood because I realized I don’t want anything that keeps me away from you. Nobody—not Ruby, not anyone—can change that.”

Orm inhaled sharply, her throat tight. Ling’s love for her had never wavered, not even for a second, but hearing her say it like that… it settled something deep inside her.

She exhaled, her hands tightening around Ling’s. “You really mean that?”

Ling smiled softly. “More than anything, baby.”

Orm’s shoulders relaxed slightly, though the storm of jealousy still simmered under the surface. “If she ever tries to reach out to you again—if she even breathes in your direction—I need to know immediately.”

Ling nodded. “I promise, my love.”

Orm sighed, running a hand through her hair before pulling Ling flush against her, holding her tightly. Ling melted into her arms, pressing a soft kiss to Orm’s neck.

Orm whispered, her voice still a little rough. “I don’t share.”

Ling chuckled against her skin. “Good. Because I’m all yours, forever.”

Orm pulled back slightly, her hands sliding down Ling’s waist. “I’m still pissed, you know.”

Ling smirked. “I can make it up to you later.”

Orm narrowed her eyes but couldn’t stop the small smile that tugged at her lips. “Damn right you will.”

Ling grinned, lacing their fingers together. “Come on, wifey. You have a movie to finish, and I have a life to start here—with you.”

Orm let out a slow breath, nodding. “With me. Always.”

And with that, they stepped out, together—stronger than ever.

_______

The warm Bangkok afternoon wrapped around the film set like a golden haze. The atmosphere was calmer than it had been in weeks. Jason Liu, thankfully, was no longer a problem—after a series of strict conversations and a very public shut-down by Orm herself, he had finally gotten the message.

And now? Now, all that mattered was finishing Eclipsed Fate and getting Orm through her last weeks of shooting.

Ling sat beside Mae Koy in the VIP viewing area, watching as Orm moved effortlessly through her scene. She was in costume, her period outfit cinched at the waist, her expression intense as she delivered a dramatic line. Even from a distance, Ling could feel her wife’s presence like a gravitational force.

She was so in love with that woman.

Ling rested her chin in her hand, a small smile on her lips.

Mae Koy, sitting beside her, gave her a side glance. “You’ve got that look again.”

Ling turned to her, amused. “What look?”

Mae smirked, sipping her iced coffee. “The ‘I’m completely, disgustingly in love with my wife’ look.”

Ling chuckled. “Guilty as charged.”

They watched as Orm finished another take, listening as the director called out adjustments. Ling sighed contentedly, resting against the back of her chair. She loved being on set—not because of the cameras, not because of the lights, but because she got to see Orm in her element.

For a few minutes, they sat in comfortable silence, the noise of the set humming around them. Then, out of nowhere, Mae Koy turned slightly and asked, very casually,

“So, did you tell her about the baby yet?”

Ling choked on her drink.

Mae hid a smirk behind her coffee cup.

Ling coughed, placing her cup down and looking at Mae like she had just announced she was moving to Mars. “Excuse me??”

Mae raised an eyebrow. “Don’t act so shocked, dear. I know you. You’re planning a whole moment for it, aren’t you?”

Ling’s cheeks flushed. “I—I did, Mae.”

Mae hummed knowingly, setting her drink down and turning to face Ling more fully. “Honey, let me tell you something about my daughter. That woman is so in love with you, she’d follow you anywhere. You could tell her you want to live on a remote island and raise goats, and she’d be on the next flight booking land.”

Ling laughed. “I don’t think goats are in the plan, Mae.”

Mae gave her a pointed look. “But babies are.”

Ling exhaled. “Yes.” Her voice was softer now, more certain. “Yes, they are.”

Mae smiled warmly. “Good. Because I already know Orm will be over the moon. You’re her everything, Ling. And a child? A family? She has dream of this with you.”

Ling bit her lip, suddenly feeling emotional. “I know Mae — She was happy when I told her”

Mae reached out, squeezing her hand. “Sweetheart. Everything with you makes her happy don’t ever forget that.”

Ling blinked rapidly, emotions creeping up on her. She wasn’t usually this sentimental, but damn it, Mae had a way of cutting through everything and hitting straight at her heart.

She sighed, squeezing Mae’s hand back. “I love you, Mae.”

Mae grinned. “I know, dear. Now stop making me emotional, I have a reputation to keep.”

Ling laughed again, feeling lighter. “Fine. But just so you know—you’re going to be the most spoiled grandmother on earth.”

Mae placed a hand on her chest dramatically. “As I should be.”

Ling rolled her eyes, but she couldn’t stop smiling.

Because Mae was right. She and Orm were already a family.

And soon? Soon, that family would grow.

And Ling couldn’t wait.

___

The day had been long, but Ling had stayed through it all, watching Orm work, sitting beside Mae, patiently waiting.

Now, the set was wrapped, and instead of heading straight home, she had slipped away into Orm’s private restroom on set to take a quick shower.

She needed it—needed to shake off the weight of the day, the lingering thoughts of her conversation with Mae, the intensity of her own emotions. The cool water had done little to help, though. Not when she knew Orm was just outside.

When Ling finally stepped out of the shower, steam curled around her like a veil, dampening the air. She felt lighter, refreshed—except for one thing.

Orm.

Her wife had been on her mind all day. The way she commanded every scene, her dedication, the sharp focus in her eyes. Ling had admired her before, but seeing her in her element? It was something else entirely.

She pulled on an oversized shirt—Orm’s shirt—letting it hang loose over her body as she ran a towel through her damp hair.

And just as she reached for her phone on the counter—

The restroom door swung open.

Ling turned just in time to see Orm stepping inside.

For a second, they both froze.

Orm’s sharp, dark gaze took her in, her breath visibly hitching as she scanned over Ling’s figure—bare legs, damp hair, her shirt draped over Ling’s shoulders like a claim.

Something flickered across Orm’s face. Something deep and unreadable.

Ling smirked, tilting her head slightly. “Can’t even wait for me to come out?”

Orm exhaled, stepping forward, her movements slow and deliberate.

Her voice was rough. Husky. “You were taking too long.”

Ling leaned against the counter, crossing her arms. “Impatient, are we?”

Orm didn’t answer.

She simply kept walking, until Ling had nowhere to go.

Trapped between Orm and the counter, she felt the heat radiating off her wife, saw the tension in her shoulders.

Orm lifted a hand, tracing a single finger down Ling’s arm. Ling shivered.

“I’ve been watching you all day,” Orm murmured, her voice dangerously low. “And now, you’re here. In my shirt. Looking like this.”

Ling grinned but said nothing. She could feel the desire simmering under Orm’s skin, the way her wife’s eyes burned with it.

“You’re killing me,” Orm whispered.

Ling reached out, grabbing Orm’s collar, pulling her even closer.

“I like making you suffer,” she teased.

Orm’s lips hovered just over hers. Their breath mingled. The anticipation between them stretched—taut, electric.

But just before Ling could close the distance—

Orm lifted her up.

With no warning, no hesitation, she swept Ling off her feet, making her yelp.

“Orm! Put me down—”

“No.”

Ling wrapped her arms around Orm’s neck, clinging instinctively. “You’re insane—”

Orm smirked. “And you love it.”

Ling exhaled a laugh, but her heart was racing.

Orm carried her effortlessly, stepping out of the restroom, ignoring the amused looks from the remaining crew members who were still lingering on set.

Ling buried her face in Orm’s neck. “You are so dramatic.”

Orm chuckled, squeezing her a little tighter. “Just making sure you don’t run away again.”

Ling softened, pressing a kiss to her jaw. “I’ll never run away from you.”

Orm’s grip tightened—possessive, reassuring.

“Good,” Orm whispered.

The ride home was quiet, but not in an uncomfortable way.

Orm’s hand rested on Ling’s thigh, fingers drawing absentminded circles against her skin as the city lights flickered past the car windows. It was grounding, that touch. A silent reminder that they were here, together, after so many days apart.

Ling exhaled softly, leaning her head against Orm’s shoulder. “It feels good to be back,” she murmured.

Orm turned slightly, pressing a lingering kiss to Ling’s temple. “It feels good to have you back.”

They pulled up to their condo, and the second the doors shut behind them, Orm turned to Ling with an unreadable expression.

Ling raised an eyebrow. “What?”

Orm exhaled, tugging her by the wrist and leading her to the couch. “Sit with me.”

Ling followed, tucking her legs beneath her as she turned to face Orm fully. Something in her wife’s expression was serious. Thoughtful.

Orm hesitated for a moment before speaking. “I want to talk about what you said the other night.”

Ling blinked, then smiled softly. “About wanting a family?”

Orm nodded slowly, her gaze searching Ling’s face. “Yes.”

Ling reached for Orm’s hands, squeezing gently. “I meant it, Orm.”

Orm swallowed, looking down at their entwined fingers. “You… didn’t always want kids.”

Ling let out a soft sigh. “I know.”

Orm lifted her gaze again, her dark eyes filled with something hesitant. “When we met, you were so sure you didn’t want that life. You told me you wanted to be free. That motherhood wasn’t something you could ever imagine for yourself.”

Ling’s expression softened. “I was young, Orm. My priorities were different. I wanted to build my career, to prove myself in the industry. I wanted to travel, experience everything life had to offer. But…” She exhaled, cupping Orm’s cheek. “Life changes, baby. We change.”

Orm’s lips parted slightly, but she didn’t say anything, just studied Ling’s face like she was searching for any hesitation, any doubt.

Ling ran her thumb gently across Orm’s jaw. “I’ve had everything I dreamed of, Orm. The career, the freedom. And through all of that, I found you. And I realized…” She swallowed. “That the one thing I never imagined wanting, I now want more than anything.”

Orm’s chest tightened. “Ling…”

Ling shook her head, a determined light in her eyes. “I want this with you. I want a family, Orm. I want to have your child. And I want to do it now, while we still have time to enjoy it. I know we have an age gap, and your career is rising, but I don’t care about any of that.”

Orm’s brows furrowed, her grip tightening slightly. “But what if you regret it?”

Ling blinked, surprised. “Why would I?”

Orm let out a slow breath. “Because… what if one day, you feel like you gave up too much? What if you resent me for it?”

Ling frowned, shifting closer. “Baby, listen to me.” She placed both hands on Orm’s face, forcing her to meet her gaze. “I could never resent you. You are my home. My career will always be there. We will always have opportunities. But this? This is something I want with you now. I don’t want to wait years and years until we’re too busy, too tired, or too scared.”

Orm swallowed hard. Ling was so certain, so unwavering.

It terrified her.

“Are you sure?” Orm whispered.

Ling smiled softly, pressing their foreheads together. “I have never been more sure about anything in my life.”

Orm exhaled shakily, her heart pounding. “I just… I want you to be happy, Ling.”

Ling kissed her gently. “I am. And I will be even happier when I get to see you holding our baby.”

Orm’s breath hitched.

Their baby.

The idea had always been abstract, distant. But now? Now, it felt real. Tangible.

Ling was giving her something she never thought she’d have—a family. A future beyond just the two of them.

Orm cupped the back of Ling’s neck, pulling her into a deep, slow kiss.

When they pulled apart, Ling’s eyes were shining.

“Let’s do this,” she whispered.

Orm, for the first time, let the fear fade.

And she nodded.

“Okay.”

And in that moment, she knew—Ling wasn’t just ready for this.

She was ready for forever.

______

It had been two weeks since Ling returned home, and in those two weeks, everything had changed.

Their days were filled with whispered conversations, gentle touches, and moments of silent excitement as they began the process of building their family.

From the first consultation with the fertility specialist to discussing donor options, every step felt surreal—but also so natural. They were in this together, fully committed, fully in love.

Ling was already adjusting her lifestyle, cutting back on caffeine, taking vitamins, and making sure her body was at its healthiest. Orm, despite her demanding filming schedule, was just as invested—researching everything, making sure Ling didn’t push herself too hard, and constantly reminding her how beautiful she was.

And now?

Now, in just a few days, Orm was leaving for Taiwan to finalize the last part of her film.

Ling sat on the couch, scrolling absentmindedly through her phone. She could hear Orm in the bedroom, packing her suitcase, grumbling softly every time something didn’t fit right.

Ling smiled to herself, setting her phone down before standing and making her way to the bedroom.

She leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, watching as Orm struggled to zip her suitcase.

Orm let out a frustrated sigh, finally noticing her wife’s amused gaze. “What?”

Ling smirked. “You’re adorable when you’re stressed.”

Orm groaned, falling back onto the bed dramatically. “I hate packing.”

Ling chuckled, walking over to her. She sat beside Orm and ran her fingers through her hair. “I could come with you, you know.”

Orm turned her head to look at Ling, her expression softening. “I know. And I would love that. But you need to rest, baby.”

Ling sighed, playing with Orm’s fingers. “I just hate the idea of being apart again.”

Orm pulled Ling into her arms, holding her close. “It’s only a few weeks, love. And when I come back, we’ll have even more to look forward to.”

Ling pressed her face into Orm’s neck, inhaling her scent. “I know. I just… don’t like sleeping without you anymore.”

Orm smiled, kissing the top of Ling’s head. “Me neither.”

They stayed like that for a moment—wrapped up in each other, savoring the quiet before Orm had to leave.

Finally, Ling pulled back slightly, her gaze locking onto Orm’s. “Promise me you’ll take care of yourself while you’re there. I need a mother and wife in shape”

Orm brushed Ling’s cheek with her thumb. “Only if you promise the same.”

Ling smiled, leaning in to kiss her softly. “Deal my love.”

The next few days were going to be hard, but they had made it through worse.

And this time? They had a future to look forward to—one they were building together. And they couldn’t wait to know if it will work.

The airport was busy, filled with people coming and going, but to Orm and Ling, it felt like the world had narrowed down to just the two of them.

Orm stood in front of Ling, suitcase at her side, fingers gripping tightly onto Ling’s waist like she was trying to memorize the feeling of her.

Ling, dressed in an oversized hoodie that Orm loved stealing, looked up at her wife with those soft, deep eyes—the ones that always made it impossible for Orm to leave.

“You’ll be home soon, right?” Ling whispered, her fingers trailing along Orm’s arm.

Orm nodded, swallowing past the lump in her throat. “I will, baby. As soon as we wrap in Taiwan, I’m on the next flight back.”

Ling nodded, but Orm could see the hesitation in her gaze, the slight wobble in her lower lip. It made something twist deep inside Orm’s chest.

Then, as if she suddenly remembered something, Orm cupped Ling’s face gently, her eyes searching hers.

“Call me,” Orm whispered. “When you have your appointment next week, I want to be there, even if it’s just through the phone.”

Ling’s lips trembled into a small smile. “Of course, love. I wouldn’t do this without you.”

Orm exhaled slowly, relief washing over her, but the ache of leaving was still there. She should be there for every step. She hated that she wasn’t.

“I wish I could be here for it,” Orm murmured, pressing her forehead against Ling’s. “I hate leaving you when we’re about to—when we’re doing this.”

Ling reached up, cradling Orm’s face. “You’re here, baby. Even if you’re not physically next to me, you’re always with me. And when you come back…”

Orm smiled, eyes softening. “When I come back, our future really starts.”

Ling nodded, biting her lip. “Exactly.”

The final boarding call echoed through the airport speakers, and Orm cursed under her breath.

She had to go.

Ling inhaled sharply, gripping Orm’s jacket like she was debating pulling her back, telling her not to leave.

Instead, she whispered, “I love you.”

Orm’s breath hitched.

She kissed Ling deeply, trying to pour everything into it—every ounce of love, longing, and promise.

“I love you more my wife,” Orm murmured against her lips.

Ling let her go, but her fingers lingered on Orm’s wrist until the last second, until Orm had no choice but to turn and walk away.

Orm didn’t look back. Because if she did, she knew she wouldn’t be able to leave.

_________

Orm sat in her dressing room, staring at her phone.

The past two weeks had been a whirlwind—long days of filming, press interviews, and the final stretch of Eclipsed Fate. Taiwan had been beautiful, but Orm barely noticed. Her mind was back in Bangkok, with Ling.

The days had been manageable. The nights? Not so much.

She missed falling asleep with Ling curled up against her, missed their quiet mornings, their late-night talks. And more than anything, she hated not being there for the final step of their baby process.

Her phone vibrated, and her heart leaped before she even looked at the screen.

Ling: Call when you’re free, baby.

Orm didn’t waste a second.

The phone barely rang once before Ling picked up.

“Baby,” Orm sighed, leaning back against her chair. “I miss you.”

Ling’s soft chuckle came through the line. “I miss you more. How’s everything over there?”

Orm exhaled. “Long days. I can’t wait to be done.”

Ling hummed. “Just a few more, love. Then you’re home.”

The warmth in her voice wrapped around Orm like a blanket, easing some of the tension in her body.

Then, Orm sat up straighter, her heart kicking up. “How was the appointment?”

Ling was quiet for a second.

Then—

“It went well,” she said softly. “Better than I expected.”

Orm’s fingers curled around the phone. “Baby…”

Ling let out a small breath. “They said everything is set, love. We’re ready. I’m ready. They said I might know in a few days or weeks”

A wave of emotions crashed over Orm all at once. She clenched her jaw, trying to keep her voice steady.

“We’re really doing this,” Orm whispered.

Ling’s voice turned even softer. “Yes, baby. We are.”

Silence stretched between them—not uncomfortable, but thick with emotion, with the weight of their future.

Orm rubbed her temple. “I should be there.”

“Baby, you will be,” Ling assured. “We’re just waiting now. And the second you come home, we’ll take the next step together.”

Orm swallowed past the lump in her throat. “I just… I don’t want you to feel alone in this.”

Ling sighed, gentle and understanding. “I could never feel alone, Orm. Not when I have you.”

Orm closed her eyes, her chest tightening with love.

Then, Ling’s voice turned teasing. “And not when I have your mother checking in on me every day.”

Orm laughed, some of the tension finally easing. “Of course, she is.”

They talked for a little while longer, neither of them wanting to hang up.

But eventually, Orm sighed. “I have to get back on set, love.”

Ling hummed. “I know.”

“I’ll call you later?”

“You better.”

“I love you,” Orm whispered.

Ling smiled. “I love you more.”

And as Orm hung up, she felt lighter.

She wasn’t home yet.But she was close.

After hanging up, Ling exhaled deeply, staring at the phone in her hands.

She missed Orm so much it physically ached.

But at least now… she knew the wait was almost over.

She placed a hand over her stomach, a small, knowing smile curling her lips.

They were really doing this. She and Orm were going to have a baby.

And she couldn’t wait to tell her wife the full truth when she got home.

Ling sat in the quiet of her kitchen, stirring her coffee absentmindedly as she scrolled through her phone. Orm’s last message sat unread, but not because she didn’t want to answer—it was because she missed her too much to think straight.

She had never been this affected by distance before. But Orm wasn’t just anyone—she was home.

She was lost in her thoughts when the front door opened, and Mae Koy stepped in like she owned the place.

“Did you eat yet?” Mae asked, placing a bag of fresh fruit and pastries on the counter.

Ling blinked at her. “You have a key?”

Mae raised an eyebrow. “Of course. You think my daughter would let her pregnant wife be alone with no supervision?”

Ling rolled her eyes but couldn’t fight the warmth in her chest.

“Oh stop it  Mae.”

Mae smirked. “I can’t. MY BABIES ARE GOING TO HAVE A BABY”

Ling laughed, finally taking a sip of her coffee. “Orm gets home in two days.”

Mae nodded, watching her carefully. “So are you going to tell her when she gets back?”

Ling stilled. The truth was—she had already know for a few days she was pregnant.

Because she wanted Orm to come home to more than just her. She wanted her to come home to their future.

She set her cup down carefully. “I will. Once she’s back.”

Mae studied her for a long moment, then smiled softly. “She’s going to cry.”

Ling let out a small laugh, biting her lip. “I know.”

Mae reached across the table, patting her hand. “You did the right thing, honey. And you know Orm—she’s going to love you even more for it.”

Ling’s chest tightened with emotion.

“She already loves me more than I know what to do with,” she murmured.

Mae smirked. “Well, now she’ll have another reason.”

______

Later that day, Ling was curled up on the couch when her phone rang.

P’Mam.

She picked up instantly. “Hey, P’Mam.”

P’Mam’s voice was light, amused. “Are you counting down the hours yet darling?”

Ling groaned. “Don’t remind me.”

P’Mam chuckled. “I just wanted to check in. How are you feeling?”

Ling exhaled. “Honestly? Anxious. Excited. A little nervous.”

“All normal,” P’Mam reassured. “Have you thought about how you’re going to tell Orm?”

Ling hesitated, her fingers grazing over her stomach.

“I… I don’t know yet,” she admitted. “I want it to be special.”

P’Mam hummed. “With the way Orm loves you, you could whisper it in her sleep, and she’d think it was the most special moment in the world.”

Ling smiled. She knew that was true.

Still, she wanted this moment to be perfect.

She sighed. “I’ll figure it out.”

P’Mam’s voice softened. “And when she gets home, you’ll finally be able to breathe again.”

Ling swallowed. “Yeah.”

Because that was the truth.

Orm wasn’t just coming home.

She was coming home to everything.

That night, Ling tossed and turned in bed. Her body was exhausted, but her mind wouldn’t shut off.

She kept thinking about Orm’s reaction.

Would she cry? Would she hold her tighter? Would she be speechless?

Would she… be scared?

Ling hated that thought.

She had seen it in Orm’s eyes before—the worry that Ling would regret this. That she would one day look at their life and wish for something different.

But Ling knew herself.

She had spent years avoiding the idea of children, thinking it would never be for her. And then Orm came along.

And suddenly, the idea of a family didn’t scare her anymore.

Because it wasn’t just about a child. It was about Orm.

Their child. Their love. Their home.

She turned onto her side, hugging Orm’s pillow close, breathing in the fading scent of her wife.

“Come home soon, baby,” she whispered.

Tomorrow. Just one more day.

Ling spent the next day making sure everything was perfect.

She prepared their bedroom, making it cozy and warm, adding little touches that reminded Orm of them. Candles, soft blankets, her favorite snacks.

She also had a small box waiting on the bedside table.

Inside was the sonogram picture—the one she had kept hidden until now. It was still too early, but it was real.

And tonight?

Orm would see it.

Tonight, everything would change. She will tell her wife she is pregnant with their first baby.

_______

Orm sat on the balcony of her hotel suite, staring at the city lights of Taipei. It was late—almost midnight—but sleep was impossible. Her mind was already back in Bangkok.

Back home.

Back with Ling.

She leaned back in her chair, her phone resting in her lap. Ling had sent her a picture earlier—just their bed, slightly messy, a soft "waiting for you" caption underneath.

Orm had stared at it for too long, her chest aching with longing.

God, she missed her.

She missed the scent of Ling’s skin, the warmth of her body in bed, the way she always reached for Orm first thing in the morning like it was instinct. She missed waking up to lazy kisses, to sleepy murmurs of "baby, five more minutes."

And now? Now, she wasn’t just coming home to Ling.

She was coming home to their future.

The thought made something shift in her chest—a heavy, overwhelming rush of emotion.

Ling was going to carry their baby. Their child.

Orm had spent years convincing herself she didn’t need more than what they had. She had been content, more than content, just being Ling’s wife. But now?

Now, the idea of holding their baby, seeing Ling as a mother, building a life together as a family—it was everything.

And she wanted to be there. For every step.

She wanted to see Ling’s excitement, her worries, her cravings—she wanted to experience it all with her. And the fact that she had been gone for the first steps of it already made her feel guilty as hell. She exhaled sharply, running a hand through her hair. She needed to be home.

Mae Koy had arranged for her to take an earlier flight, thank god.

Orm barely listened to the final production team goodbyes, nodding when necessary, smiling when expected. Her mind was already elsewhere.

The second she boarded the plane, she sent one message.

Orm: I’m on my way, my love. Just a few more hours.

She stared at her phone, half-hoping Ling was awake, but the message stayed unread. It was late in Bangkok.

Orm sighed, tucking her phone away.

The flight felt interminable. Every minute dragged, every announcement felt too slow. Orm’s fingers tapped impatiently against the armrest, and even the in-flight meal was left untouched.

The moment the plane touched down in Bangkok, she was already out of her seat.

She didn’t care about her luggage. She didn’t care about customs. She just needed to see her.

Ling felt her before she saw her.

She stood near the arrival gates, arms crossed, trying to act normal, but her heart was racing.

Mae, standing beside her, smirked. “You look like you’re about to run.”

Ling shot her a glare. “Shut up.”

Mae just chuckled, glancing toward the doors. “She’s here.”

Ling’s breath hitched.

And then—Orm walked through the gates.

Ling did run.

She didn’t care about the people watching, the cameras flashing. She only cared about the way Orm’s tired, beautiful eyes found her instantly, how they softened, how she looked at her like she was the only thing that mattered.

Orm barely had time to react before Ling crashed into her, wrapping her arms tight around her neck.

“Baby,” Orm breathed, holding her so tight she felt whole again.

Ling buried her face into Orm’s shoulder, breathing her in. “You’re home.”

Orm cupped the back of her head, pressing a kiss into her hair. “Yeah, baby. I’m home.”

Mae cleared her throat behind them. “Alright, alright, let the poor girl breathe. Orm, you hungry?”

Orm finally pulled back enough to look at her wife.

Ling looked tired, but so beautiful—her eyes shining, lips curved in a soft, relieved smile.

“I’m starving,” Orm admitted.

Mae grinned. “Good. We’re going to eat at my place. Come on, lovebirds.”

Ling took Orm’s hand, squeezing it.

And as they walked out of the airport together, Orm felt it—felt the weight of her absence lift, felt the peace settle deep in her chest.

She was finally home. And tonight, Ling was going to tell her everything.

____

The car ride home was quiet but full of unspoken things.

Ling’s fingers traced absent circles on Orm’s palm as their driver took them through the familiar streets of Bangkok. Orm, exhausted but utterly at peace, watched Ling with half-lidded eyes, her body still buzzing from the feeling of being near her wife again.

Dinner at Mae’s had been warm, lighthearted—full of laughter, good food, and gentle teasing from Mae and Papa Oct about how they were already glowing like expectant parents.

But now? Now, it was just them.

Orm exhaled deeply, shifting in her seat to face Ling fully. “I still can’t believe I’m home.”

Ling turned to her, her smile soft. “It felt like forever.”

Orm nodded, brushing her knuckles over Ling’s cheek, needing to touch her. “I hated being away. I missed you.”

Ling caught Orm’s hand, bringing it to her lips. “I missed you more.”

Their fingers stayed intertwined as the car finally pulled into their driveway. The moment the driver opened the door, Orm didn’t wait—she grabbed Ling’s hand and pulled her inside.

The door had barely closed behind them before Orm turned, trapping Ling against it.

Ling gasped softly, blinking up at her. “Impatient?”

Orm’s hands pressed firmly on either side of Ling’s head, her body thrumming with everything she had been holding back for weeks.

“You have no idea,” she murmured.

Ling exhaled shakily, but there was a teasing smirk playing on her lips. “Baby, you just came home. Shouldn’t you—”

Orm cut her off with a slow, deliberate kiss.

It started as a homecoming. Soft. Reverent. But it didn’t stay that way.

The moment Ling sighed into her mouth, Orm tightened her grip, deepening the kiss, pouring every ounce of longing into it.

Ling melted.

Her arms wrapped around Orm’s shoulders, pulling her closer, letting herself be consumed.

Orm’s hands found Ling’s waist, gripping her like she was afraid she’d disappear again.

They kissed like they had all the time in the world, but still, it wasn’t enough.

Never enough.

Ling pulled back slightly, breathless. “Baby…”

Orm rested her forehead against Ling’s, eyes dark, voice husky. “Take a shower with me.”

Ling’s lips parted, her breath hitching.

And then—she hesitated.

Orm frowned slightly, noticing the shift. “Baby?”

Ling looked into Orm’s eyes, her fingers tightening around Orm’s hands. “Actually… before that, I have something to give you.”

Orm blinked. “What is it?”

Ling bit her lip, suddenly nervous. She had planned to give this before things got heated earlier—but Orm’s kisses had completely erased all rational thought from her mind. Now, though, she knew this was the right moment.

She took a deep breath and pulled something from her purse—a small, elegant box.

Orm’s eyes flickered with curiosity. “Ling…?”

Ling exhaled, her heart pounding. “Open it.”

Orm, still slightly breathless from the kiss, took the box with careful hands. She lifted the lid—and then froze.

Inside was a tiny pair of baby shoes, soft and white. Beneath them, a folded note in Ling’s delicate handwriting.

Her hands trembled slightly as she picked it up, unfolding it carefully.

"You are going to be the best mom in the world. Our baby can’t wait to meet you."

Orm’s breath hitched.

Her eyes shot up to Ling, who was watching her with nervous anticipation, her own eyes glistening.

“You… you mean…” Orm’s voice cracked, barely able to get the words out.

Ling’s lips trembled into a smile. “Yes, baby. I’m pregnant.”

For a moment, Orm couldn’t move.

Couldn’t think.

The world blurred—because nothing else existed except Ling and those words.

A choked sound escaped Orm’s throat as she reached out, gripping Ling’s face in both hands. “Baby, are you—are you serious?”

Ling nodded quickly, laughing breathlessly, a tear slipping down her cheek. “Yes. I took the test while you were in Taiwan. I wanted to be sure before telling you.”

Orm let out a shaky breath, her thumbs caressing Ling’s cheeks. “Oh my god… oh my god…”

Ling laughed again, sniffling. “Baby, say something.”

And then—Orm crushed her into a hug, holding onto her like she never wanted to let go.

Ling melted into the embrace, feeling the shudder of Orm’s breathing against her.

Orm’s voice was thick, full of raw emotion as she whispered into Ling’s hair. “We’re having a baby?”

Ling’s arms tightened around her wife. “Yes, my love.”

Orm pulled back just enough to look at her. Her eyes were wet, but the smile on her face was blinding.

“You’re really pregnant,” Orm whispered in awe, her fingers brushing Ling’s stomach like it was the most precious thing in the world.

Ling nodded, her hand covering Orm’s. “We’re really having a baby.”

Orm let out a deep, shaky exhale—and then she kissed Ling.

Not with heat, not with urgency. But with love.

With awe, with devotion, with the kind of emotion that words couldn’t contain.

Ling kissed back just as softly, tears slipping between them.

They were crying, laughing, kissing—completely overwhelmed.

And when they finally pulled away, Orm pressed her forehead against Ling’s, closing her eyes, just breathing her in.

“I love you,” Orm whispered.

Ling smiled through her tears. “I love you more.”

Orm let out a small, breathless laugh. “That’s not possible.”

Ling grinned. “Too bad. It’s true.”

They stayed like that for a long moment, wrapped up in each other and in the enormity of this moment.

Then, Orm sniffled, laughing softly. “Well. Now I don’t just have my wife to take care of—I have our little baby too.”

Ling nodded, heart swelling. “Yeah. You do.”

Orm leaned in again, pressing the softest kiss to Ling’s stomach.

Ling let out a tiny gasp, her fingers threading through Orm’s hair as her heart swelled with love.

And just like that—everything was perfect.

__

The soft golden light of dawn spilled into the bedroom, casting delicate shadows across the rumpled sheets. The air was still, filled only with the sound of slow, steady breathing and the occasional rustle of fabric as the woman in Orm’s arms shifted.

Her wife. Her pregnant wife.

Orm’s eyes fluttered open, her body warm and heavy with lingering exhaustion, but the second her mind caught up with reality, a new kind of energy shot through her.

Last night wasn’t a dream.

She had almost lost it when Ling placed that tiny velvet box in her hands. Shaking. Terrified. Her wife, the woman she thought never wanted children, had looked at her with so much love, so much certainty, and told her she was pregnant. That they were having a baby.

A baby.

Orm’s heart pounded at the memory, at the absolute weight of it all. The emotions, the shock, the way her entire world had shifted in an instant.

And now, in the early morning quiet, she could do nothing but stare at Ling.

Ling, still deep asleep, her dark hair tousled across the pillow, one arm curled under her head. The sheets were low on her waist, revealing smooth, golden skin, the gentle rise and fall of her breathing making her look so peaceful.

So real.

Orm’s gaze lowered, her breath catching when she reached the spot she had barely stopped touching all night. Ling’s stomach.

Her wife’s stomach.

Orm carefully, almost reverently, reached out and pressed her palm flat against it. Warm. Soft.

Different. Because now, inside—their child was growing.

Her eyes burned. She blinked rapidly, swallowing against the overwhelming surge of love, of disbelief, of everything.

Ling shifted slightly, mumbling something incoherent before sighing and nestling closer into the pillow. Orm froze, but when Ling didn’t wake, she let out a slow exhale.

Then, before she could stop herself, she leaned down, pressing the softest, most reverent kiss to Ling’s stomach.

Their baby.

Her baby.

“Good morning, little one,” she whispered against Ling’s skin, voice barely above a breath.

A tiny, choked laugh came from above her.

Orm’s head snapped up, her cheeks flushing as she saw Ling peeking down at her, sleepy eyes filled with so much love.

“Caught you,” Ling murmured, voice thick with sleep, smiling softly.

Orm cleared her throat, trying and failing to recover. “I was just… you were sleeping, so I thought…”

Ling reached out, brushing fingers through Orm’s messy hair. “You were talking to our baby.”

Orm swallowed hard. “Yeah.”

Ling’s heart swelled. She gently tugged Orm forward until she was cradled against her chest, wrapping her arms around her.

Orm melted immediately, burying her face in Ling’s neck, inhaling her scent, her warmth, her everything.

Ling smiled into Orm’s hair, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head.

“I love you,” she whispered.

Orm tightened her grip around Ling’s waist, holding her like she was afraid to let go. “I love you more.”

And for the first time in her life, Orm Kornnaphat-Kwong woke up feeling like she had everything she had ever wanted.