Chapter 2
Two girls walked side by side down the quiet neighborhood street, their footsteps light against the damp sidewalk. The world around them seemed to pause, the fresh scent of rain hanging in the air as water dripped softly from leaves and rooftops, breaking the quiet. A faint awkwardness settled between them as if they were both waiting for the other to speak first.
Ling’s mind flitted between random thoughts—memories of their earlier laughter, questions about what Orm thought of her hometown, and fleeting worries about making a good impression. Yet one question kept surfacing: why was she acting so out of character? Ling usually avoided unnecessary interactions, yet here she was, bringing Orm to a place she rarely shared with anyone. Unsure of what to say, she hesitated, while Orm silently debated whether to comment on the weather or just let the quiet continue. It wasn’t an uncomfortable silence, but it carried the weight of newness—like a bridge still under construction, tentative but full of potential. Neither was quite sure how to keep the small talk alive, and their words faded into a hesitant silence that hung between them like an unspoken question. The quiet felt both fragile and full of promise, as though it could shatter or blossom into something meaningful depending on who spoke first. It wasn’t entirely uncomfortable—more like the tentative stillness of two strangers testing the waters of connection.
The street was lined with houses that bore the unmistakable charm of age: faded pastel shutters, ivy crawling up brick facades, and garden beds overflowing with rain-soaked blooms. To Ling, the neighborhood felt like a comforting echo of her childhood, a mix of nostalgia and tranquility. She had grown up here, and each house, each garden, seemed to hold a memory—afternoons playing on the steps, the comforting hum of neighbors chatting in their porches.
Orm, on the other hand, couldn’t help but notice the quiet resilience of the homes. The peeling paint on shutters, the ivy winding stubbornly up the brick walls, and the weathered doorsteps all seemed to tell stories of enduring through time. To her, these houses stood as quiet witnesses of history, their imperfections making them feel alive. Each detail invited her to imagine the lives within, further deepening her appreciation for their strength. Having just moved here, she saw the neighborhood as new terrain, each detail an invitation to imagine the lives lived within these walls. The weathered exteriors, with their quiet strength, mirrored her own feelings of starting over—a blend of uncertainty and determination. Moving here had been a leap of faith, and while the neighborhood still felt unfamiliar, Orm couldn’t help but find comfort in the resilience the homes seemed to embody. She felt a quiet kinship with their weathered walls, as though they too carried untold stories of endurance and change. Each faded shutter and creeping vine seemed to whisper stories of resilience, offering Orm a sense of both curiosity and solace as she sought to find her own place in this unfamiliar world.
Orm's gaze rested on Ling for a brief moment, observing how she navigated the neighborhood with a sense of ownership as if it belonged to her. However, there was something in her stance that indicated she was cautiously gauging her relationship with Orm. This intriguing contrast sparked Orm's curiosity, making her eager to learn more about Ling.
Ling glanced at the puddles on the sidewalk, her reflection wavering with each step. The rainwater shimmered like liquid mirrors, distorting the colors of the flowers nearby. Orm, walking beside her, seemed lost in thought, her fingers fiddling absentmindedly with the strap of her bag. She occasionally glanced at Ling, as if searching for a cue to break the quiet. The sound of their footsteps mixed with the gentle rhythm of nature’s aftermath, a soundtrack that felt soothing and strangely intimate.
As they approached a bend in the road, a sudden blur of movement caught their attention. A cat darted across their path, its fur damp and clinging from the earlier rain. Startled, both girls let out small yelps, their voices blending with the soft sound of droplets falling from nearby branches. They froze for a moment, watching as the cat disappeared into the shadows of a nearby hedge, leaving ripples in the puddles it disturbed. Its sudden appearance felt almost surreal against the quiet backdrop of the neighborhood. The cat’s paws splashed softly through a puddle, its sleek, rain-soaked body darting with quick grace before vanishing into the shadows of a hedge.
For a beat, neither spoke, their expressions caught somewhere between shock and disbelief. Then, as if on cue, they burst into laughter. The sound was unrestrained and genuine, echoing lightly through the quiet street. The absurdity of the moment dissolved the lingering tension between them, leaving only a shared amusement that warmed the crisp, rain-soaked air. Ling doubled over slightly, her hand on her knee as she tried to catch her breath, while Orm wiped at her eyes, still chuckling. Ling wiped a tear from her eye, still catching her breath, as she glanced back at Orm, her grin widening.
“Well, that was unexpected,” Ling said, shaking her head as she glanced toward the hedge where the cat had disappeared. She exhaled softly, her lips curving into a small smile. The moment felt oddly comforting, as though the tension between them had been swept away by the simple humor of the cat’s surprise entrance.
“Yeah, but it did lighten the mood,” Orm replied, her tone brighter as she turned to Ling. Her lighter hair framed her face as she tilted her head thoughtfully, her lips twitching with a teasing grin. “I guess we needed something silly to laugh about, didn’t we?”
They resumed their walk, the silence between them now filled with the easy warmth of companionship. The street seemed brighter somehow, the earlier grayness of the afternoon giving way to a softer light as the clouds parted slightly. Ling tilted her head back, watching as the sky slowly cleared. The clouds scattered, revealing more patches of pale blue as sunlight streamed down, lighting up the wet pavement. The air smelled fresher, a mix of damp earth and blooming flowers. Ling smiled, her spirits lifting as the clouds parted. "Looks like the sun's coming out." The rain had always left her feeling weighed down, and the clearing sky brought a welcome lightness to her mood.
Orm nodded, her gaze wandering to a row of small gardens bursting with color despite the storm. “It’s funny how everything looks so fresh after the rain. Like it’s all been reset.” Her eyes followed the path of sunlight filtering through the leaves, the golden rays accentuating the vibrancy of the flowers. Ling glanced at her and noticed how the sunlight played across Orm's lighter hair and skin, making her glow softly. For a moment, Ling thought Orm looked almost ethereal, like some kind of goddess walking among mortals.
Orm noticed Ling staring at her, a curious intensity in her gaze that made Orm feel slightly self-conscious. Just as Orm opened her mouth to ask what was on Ling’s mind, a dull thud interrupted her thoughts. Ling had walked straight into an electric post, too lost in her swirling thoughts—and her growing fascination with Orm's beauty—to notice the obstacle ahead. Her mind spun with questions: Why did Orm captivate her so completely? What about her made Ling act so out of character? Ling stumbled back slightly, clutching her forehead with a groan. "Ow!" Her hand flew to her forehead, and her cheeks flushed as she processed her clumsiness. She glanced nervously at Orm, torn between laughing at herself and hoping Orm wouldn’t find her completely ridiculous.
Orm gasped, her eyes wide with a mix of concern and amusement. "Ling! Are you okay?"
Ling rubbed the spot on her head where she’d hit the post, her cheeks turning crimson. "I’m fine," she muttered, glancing at the ground to avoid Orm’s gaze. "I just… wasn’t paying attention."
Orm tried to stifle a laugh but couldn’t hold it back. "You were so busy staring at me that you forgot to watch where you were going, didn’t you?" she teased gently, her tone lighthearted.
Ling’s blush deepened, but a small smile tugged at her lips despite herself. "Maybe," she admitted sheepishly. "But you could have warned me!"
Orm chuckled, her laughter ringing through the quiet street. "I didn’t realize I was that distracting! Come on, let’s get to the coffee shop before you find another post to run into."
By the time they reached the coffee shop, the worn-out board sign above its entrance, painted with the name 'Café Haven,' creaked faintly in the breeze. The bell above the door chimed softly as Ling led them inside. The cozy interior was a stark contrast to the cool air outside, wrapping around them like a familiar embrace. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods filled the room, mingling with the gentle hum of conversation and the faint strains of jazz playing in the background. The warmth of the space felt like a welcome escape from the lingering chill of the outdoors.
Their laughter lingered as they found a table near the window, its surface slightly worn but charming in its imperfection. Ling sat down, adjusting the hem of her hoodie as she settled into her chair and picked up the menu, her eyes scanning the options thoughtfully. Orm slid into the seat beside her, leaning in to peek at the menu Ling held. Her lighter hair caught the glow of the café’s warm lighting as she tilted her head slightly. “What’s good on the menu?” she asked curiously, her tone playful.
Ling glanced at her, a small smile forming as she flipped the page. “The matcha here is really good,” she said, recalling her earlier promise to Orm about the matcha latte. Her finger hovered over the section featuring specialty drinks. Orm leaned closer, her lighter hair brushing slightly against Ling’s shoulder as she peered at the menu. "You did promise we’d come here for the matcha," Orm said with a teasing grin. "It better live up to the hype."
Ling laughed softly, her gaze still fixed on the menu. "Trust me, it will. And if it doesn’t, you can blame me for dragging you here instead of wandering around the neighborhood." Orm smirked, her eyes flicking to the pastry section. "Deal. But if I’m trying matcha, you have to split one of these pastries with me."
Ling nodded, her smile growing as their conversation shifted into an easy rhythm. Together, they continued to explore the options, their voices growing livelier as they debated what to order next. Neither noticed the barista behind the counter sneaking a glance their way, a curious expression on her face. She recognized Ling immediately, surprised to see her with company. Ling rarely brought anyone here, and Alex couldn’t help but wonder what was so special about the newcomer that Ling had broken her usual routine. Her eyes lingered on them longer than usual, as if trying to piece together the story behind Ling’s companion—a mix of curiosity and mild surprise flickering across her features. Outside, the sun gleamed through the café windows, hinting at the possibility of a perfect afternoon yet to unfold.
Before Ling and Orm could delve deeper into the menu, a barista approached their table, a bright smile on her face. "Hey, Ling! Long time no see," she greeted warmly, holding a small notepad. Ling looked up and returned the smile. "Hi, Alex! It’s been a while. How have you been?" Alex nodded, her gaze briefly flicking to Orm. "Good, busy as always. And who’s this?" she asked with a curious tone, glancing at Ling’s companion.
"This is Orm," Ling introduced hastily, her words tumbling out in a nervous rush. "She just moved to the neighborhood, so I thought I’d bring her here to try the best matcha latte in town." Ling’s cheeks flushed slightly as she spoke, uneasy at the prospect of Alex thinking something unusual since she rarely brought anyone to this café.
Orm smiled politely. "Nice to meet you, Alex." She leaned back slightly, a playful glint in her eyes and a smirk tugging at her lips. "Ling promised me a free matcha latte if I came here instead of exploring the neighborhood," she said teasingly, raising an eyebrow at Ling. "So how could I say no?"
Ling, still flushed, felt her cheeks grow even redder at the implication. Heat crept up her neck as her mind scrambled to process Orm’s playful comment. She shifted nervously in her seat, trying to suppress the awkward laugh threatening to escape. The idea that Orm might think she had intentionally avoided the damp neighborhood made her feel exposed. Dropping her gaze to the menu, she fidgeted slightly, searching for a way to steer the conversation in a different direction.
Alex's gaze lingered on the pair, her eyes tracing over Ling with a new curiosity. She had known Ling for years, but something had shifted within her. Ling was not one to bring anyone into this sacred space, let alone share it with someone else. Alex watched with raised eyebrows as she struggled to reconcile this new side of Ling with the reserved and guarded person she had known all this time.
In the past, Ling had always been quiet and introverted, rarely engaging with strangers. It had taken Alex months of small talk to even get Ling to open up a little bit. But now, here was Ling - chatting easily with Orm and inviting her into the café, a place Alex had always thought was reserved for Ling's retreat. The sight was both surprising and perplexing for Alex, who couldn't help but wonder what had sparked this change in Ling. What was it about Orm that had effortlessly drawn Ling out of her shell? Was there something special about their connection that Alex hadn't noticed before? Her thoughts swirled as she observed the two of them interacting, wondering how this unexpected turn of events would affect the almost routine-like events in her cafe.
"So, what can I get for you girls this afternoon?" Alex asked, her tone friendly but with a hint of curiosity. She couldn’t quite shake her surprise at seeing Ling here with company. Ling rarely brought anyone to the café, and Alex found herself intrigued. As she waited for their order, she decided she would keep an eye on the pair from a distance, curious to see what had brought this change in Ling.
"Do you still want the matcha latte, Orm?" Ling asked, her tone careful and precise, double-checking as if ensuring every detail was perfect. Orm nodded and leaned in closer, glancing at the menu Ling was holding. "Can we also order some brownies?" she asked, her big amber eyes wide and pleading, making her look just like a puppy begging for a treat. Ling couldn’t help but think Orm resembled a golden retriever again—warm, expressive, and utterly impossible to resist. "Sure, we can get that," Ling replied with a small smile, stopping herself just short of reaching out to ruffle Orm’s hair.
Ling glanced at Alex, noticing the faint amusement sparkling in her eyes. "Can we have one matcha latte, one iced Americano, and an order of brownies?" Ling asked, her tone steady despite the slight unease creeping in as she tried to ignore the curious glint in Alex's gaze.
"Coming right up!" Alex said with a warm smile as she jotted down the order. She gave them one last glance before heading behind the counter, leaving Ling and Orm alone to continue their conversation. The clink of cups and the hum of the coffee machine filled the space as Alex got to work, her curiosity about the pair lingering as she prepared their drinks.
As Alex disappeared behind the counter, the faint clinking of glass and the low hum of the café surrounded them, blending with the chatter of other patrons. Orm turned back to Ling with a playful grin, her amber eyes catching the warm afternoon light. "So, an iced Americano, huh?" she teased lightly, the curiosity in her tone drawing Ling’s full attention. "And here I thought you were a matcha enthusiast."
Ling’s cheeks flushed, a faint pink spreading across her skin as she toyed with the corner of the menu, her fingers brushing the edge in a rhythm that betrayed her nervousness. She let out a small, self-conscious laugh, her voice was soft and a little uncertain like she wasn’t used to admitting personal preferences. "Well, I do love matcha," she confessed, her gaze flickering downward, lingering on the menu as if it held some unspoken answer.
For a moment, the words seemed to hang in the air, caught between them like a fragile thread. Slowly, Ling looked up, her dark, obsidian-like eyes meeting Orm’s amber gaze with a flicker of vulnerability. "But sometimes," she added, her lips curving into a tentative smile, "I need that extra caffeine kick." Her tone was playful but carried a hint of honesty, a glimpse of her guarded nature easing just a little in the warm atmosphere of their exchange.
Orm tilted her head slightly, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she studied Ling. The way her fingers danced on the menu, the slight hesitance in her voice—it all added to the quiet charm of the moment. Outside, the soft hum of city life filtered through the café windows, blending with the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries. The scene felt like its own little world, a bubble of time where neither seemed in a rush to leave.
Orm leaned in slightly, resting her elbows on the polished wooden table, her posture open and inviting. The sincerity in her expression made her question feel less like an interrogation and more like a genuine interest. "Tell me about this Americano," she prompted warmly, her lips curving into a gentle smile. "What makes it so special that you’d choose it over your beloved matcha?"
Ling’s eyebrow arched in mild surprise, her lips twitching upward at Orm’s curiosity. She took a steadying breath and began to explain, her hands moving lightly, as though they were helping her words take shape. "It’s not really about the drink itself," she confessed, her voice soft but steady, as if peeling back a layer of herself she didn’t often share. "It’s more about the ritual. The bitterness, the boldness—it kind of wakes me up in different ways. It’s grounding, you know?"
She paused for a moment, her gaze flitting to Orm’s face, searching for any sign of judgment or disinterest. Instead, she found Orm’s eyes focused intently on her, encouraging her to continue. Ling smiled, just a little, and added, "I don’t usually go for sweet drinks, but the matcha here is an exception. I enjoy it."
Orm nodded slowly, the warmth in her smile deepening as she absorbed Ling’s words. "That’s unexpected, but I get it," she said after a moment, her voice thoughtful. "We all have those little rituals that ground us—like personal anchors, right?" She tilted her head slightly, a mischievous glint lighting up her eyes. "Though I have to admit, you don’t seem like someone who needs much anchoring. You come across as... pretty sturdy already."
Ling blinked, caught off guard by the compliment—or was it an observation? Either way, her thoughts seemed to stumble over the words. She glanced down, her fingers tracing the edge of the menu she still held, as though it might anchor her. "You think so? But we just met, not even an hour ago," she said softly, her voice quieter now as if testing how the statement felt aloud.
Orm leaned back, studying her with a thoughtful expression. "Yeah, I do," she said simply. "You’ve been showing me around like you’ve lived here forever. You’ve got this calm, steady vibe—it’s nice." She hesitated briefly, then added with a grin, "But it’s also a little intimidating."
Ling’s eyes widened in surprise. "Intimidating?" she echoed, incredulous. "Me?"
Orm laughed, the sound light and warm, as if Ling’s reaction had been precisely what she expected. "Yeah, you," she said, her tone teasing but kind. "You’ve got this way about you—like you’re in control, even when you’re not sure what to say. It’s a good thing, though," she added quickly, noticing the flicker of doubt cross Ling’s face. "It makes people want to trust you."
Ling hesitated, unsure how to respond. Her instinct was to dismiss the comment as an exaggeration, but the sincerity in Orm’s gaze rooted her in place. Instead, she allowed herself a small, tentative smile. "Thanks," she murmured, her eyes briefly meeting Orm’s before flitting back to her fidgeting hands. "That... means a lot, especially since I don’t usually do this kind of thing."
Orm tilted her head slightly, her brows knitting in curiosity. "What do you mean by that?" she asked gently, her voice careful, as though she didn’t want to push too hard.
Ling hesitated again, her shoulders hunching slightly as she spoke, her voice dropping to a quieter tone. "I mean... I don’t talk to people much," she admitted, her gaze fixed firmly on the edge of the table. "I don’t even know why I’m still talking to you. Usually, I avoid people—especially strangers like you."
Before Orm could respond, Alex returned, her approach accompanied by the comforting clatter of cups and plates. She set the tray down with practiced ease, her eyes darting between the two girls with a knowing smile. "Here you go—one matcha latte, one iced Americano, and a plate of brownies," she announced warmly, her tone tinged with curiosity.
"Thanks, Alex," Ling said, her voice steady, though a faint pink still dusted her cheeks from the earlier exchange. Orm chimed in with her thanks, her gaze lingering on the vibrant green of the matcha latte. She admired the velvety surface, the delicate foam art resembling a heart—a small detail that brought a slight curve to her lips before she reached for her cup.
Ling busied herself with arranging the drinks and brownies, her fingers deftly adjusting the plates as if to create the perfect tableau. The mundane task gave her a moment to collect herself. She slid the matcha latte toward Orm, her voice soft and almost shy. "So, you’re officially the first stranger I haven’t avoided. Congratulations." She looked up briefly, her smile wry and tinged with self-deprecation.
Orm accepted the cup with a grin, tilting it slightly in a playful toast. "To breaking barriers," she said warmly, her amber eyes alight with genuine delight.
The sound of Ling’s laugh, soft and unguarded, escaped her lips before she could stop it. The tension that had clung to her shoulders seemed to ebb away as she leaned back slightly, a sense of ease settling over her. Maybe, she thought, this was okay.
Alex retreated behind the counter, her presence fading into the hum of the café, leaving the two girls to their newfound connection. They settled into an easy rhythm, the earlier tension dissipating like the foam atop a latte. Ling sipped her iced Americano, savoring the sharp bite of the coffee, while Orm cradled her matcha latte, the warmth seeping into her hands.
The brownies sat between them—a gooey, chocolate-laden centerpiece that quickly became a shared indulgence. Ling cut a piece with her fork and nudged the plate toward Orm, who accepted the offering with an exaggerated flourish, her grin mischievous. "Careful," Orm quipped, biting into the brownie. "If you keep being this generous, I might start thinking you like me."
Ling rolled her eyes, though her smile betrayed her amusement. "Don’t push your luck," she retorted, though there was no sting in her words.
Between bites of chocolate and sips of their respective drinks, their conversation meandered naturally, flowing from light-hearted anecdotes to more meaningful glimpses into their lives. Ling spoke of her love for the quiet corners of the city, where she could lose herself in a book or her thoughts. Orm shared tales of her travels, her words painting vivid pictures of bustling markets and serene landscapes.
Outside, the sun dipped lower in the sky, its golden rays softening into hues of amber and crimson as they streamed through the café’s large windows. The light dappled their table with fleeting patterns, casting a warm, nostalgic glow that wrapped around them like a comforting embrace. Shadows stretched longer across the floor, mingling with the golden tones in a dance that marked the day’s quiet descent into the evening. The noise of the café softened, blending into the serene ambiance, a gentle hum that served as a soothing backdrop to their conversation.
Ling glanced at Orm, a small smile tugging at her lips as she realized how comfortable she felt. It wasn’t something she was used to—not with a stranger, and certainly not with someone she’d only met an hour ago. But as Orm laughed at her own story, the sound light and infectious, Ling decided she didn’t mind. Maybe, just maybe, this connection was worth the risk.
Orm whose already eating the brownie, a blissful expression on her face. "Oh, these are amazing," she said, her voice muffled slightly as she took another bite. She leaned forward slightly, cutting another piece with her fork. The rich chocolate texture crumbled perfectly under the pressure, and her expression softened even more as the flavor hit her taste buds. "Okay, you were absolutely right about this," she added, her tone filled with delight.
Ling chuckled softly, reaching for her Americano. "Told you this place was worth it," she said, her smile lingering as she took a sip. The bitterness of the coffee was familiar and grounding, a sharp contrast to the lightheartedness of Orm’s enthusiasm. Watching Orm enjoy the brownies with such childlike delight made Ling feel unexpectedly at ease. It was a stark difference from the tension that had initially lingered between them.
Orm gestured toward Ling’s drink with her fork, still chewing. "So, do you usually come here by yourself?" she asked after swallowing, her tone casual but curious.
Ling nodded, setting her cup down. "Yeah, it’s kind of my go-to spot when I need to clear my head," she admitted, glancing out the window at the street beyond. The sunlight reflected off the wet pavement, casting a warm glow over the neighborhood. "It’s quiet, familiar. It feels... safe."
Orm tilted her head slightly, her gaze softening as she studied Ling. "Safe," she repeated as if testing the word. "That’s interesting. I guess everyone has a place like that, huh?" She took another bite of brownie, chewing thoughtfully. "For me, it’s usually anywhere by the water. There’s something about the sound of waves that makes everything feel less complicated." Her smile faltered briefly, but she continued, "I can’t say I ever feel truly safe in one place since my family moves around so much. But my Papa promised this would be the last time we’d move, so maybe things will change."
Ling's eyes brightened slightly at the mention of water, and she leaned forward, her fingers still resting lightly on her cup. "That reminds me," she said with a warm smile. "There's this creek in the woods near here. It's not big or anything, but it’s tucked away, and it feels like a little hidden world. When I was a kid, I used to sneak out there just to sit on the rocks and listen to the water. It always felt like a secret escape, a place that was just mine." Her gaze softened as she looked at Orm, her voice quieter but kind. "Maybe it can be your safe place, somewhere you can just... breathe."
Orm’s expression shifted to one of delighted curiosity, her smile growing as she imagined finding a place like that for herself. "That sounds amazing. Do you still go there often?"
"Sometimes," Ling admitted, a small smile playing on her lips. "Not as often as I’d like. Life gets in the way, I guess. But whenever I do, it’s like time slows down. The way the water moves over the rocks, the quiet... It makes me feel like I can breathe again."
Orm nodded thoughtfully, her gaze distant for a moment. "I’d love to see it sometime," she said, her tone earnest. "Creeks are special in a way oceans can’t be. They feel... more personal, I guess. Like they belong to you alone for a while." Ling blinked, a flicker of surprise crossing her face at Orm’s response. She hadn’t expected her to understand so immediately. "Yeah," she said softly. "That’s exactly it."
For a moment, they sat in a comfortable silence, the hum of the café filling the space between them. Ling glanced out the window, watching the sunlight dance across the wet pavement, and then turned back to Orm, feeling a warmth in her chest she couldn’t quite explain.
"Maybe I’ll take you there one day," Ling said, almost without thinking. Her voice was soft, and there was a tentative quality to her words as if she was testing the waters.
Orm’s grin widened, the mischief in her amber eyes replaced by something warmer. "I’d like that," she said simply, and for the first time, Ling realized just how much she meant it.
As their conversation drifted to lighter topics, the creek lingered in the back of Ling’s mind. It had always been a sanctuary, a place she kept to herself like this cafe. But the thought of sharing it with Orm felt... right. Like opening a door she hadn’t realized she’d kept locked for far too long. They talk until the sun is slowly hiding away from the world.
As the sun started to dip below the horizon, casting the café in shades of amber and soft purple, Ling checked her phone. Her eyes widened slightly when she saw the time. "Wow, we've been here for hours," she said, setting her phone back down.
Orm stretched her arms over her head, a lazy smile on her lips. "Time flies when you're with good company," she said playfully, though her tone carried a sincerity that Ling couldn’t ignore.
Ling chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I guess it does," she replied. Her usual wariness of strangers seemed like a distant memory now, replaced by an unfamiliar but welcome warmth.
Outside, the streetlights flickered on, their soft glow reflecting off the damp pavement. Ling glanced out the window and then back at Orm. "Do you wanna go back home? You probably still have stuff to unpack," she said, her tone gentle but unsure.
Orm shook her head. "Not really. I told my mom I was going out, and I’d already unpacked most of my stuff anyway. But," she added with a curious tilt of her head, "what about you? Do you need to head home?"
Ling hesitated for a moment. Normally, she would’ve wrapped things up by now, retreating to the comfort of her routine. But something about Orm’s easy smile and the way she spoke made her want to linger just a little longer.
"Not yet," Ling admitted. She looked down at her half-empty cup, then back at Orm with a small smile. "There’s still some daylight left. Want to see the creek?"
Orm's face lit up, her amber eyes shining with excitement. "Are you serious? Right now? Didn’t you have reservations about an adventure earlier? Is that why we ended up staying at the café?" Orm asked, raising her eyebrow at Ling playfully.
Ling laughed, standing up and gathering the dishes they needed to return to Alex at the counter. "That was earlier," she said, a playful glint in her eyes. "Besides, why not? It’s not far from here, and I think you’ll really like it."
As they approached the counter, Alex watched them with a knowing smile, her eyes flickering with recognition. She had seen Ling and Orm deep in conversation earlier and couldn’t help but feel a fond curiosity about their connection. Friendly by nature, Alex always enjoyed seeing people form bonds, especially in her café, which she liked to think of as a haven for moments like these. "I hope you girls enjoyed the food and drinks," she said warmly, her tone friendly and welcoming. "It was amazing," Orm said with a playful grin, her amber eyes sparkling. "You might just see me here every day from now on." Her tone was light, but there was a sincerity in her words that made Ling shake her head with an amused smile.
Alex chuckled at Orm’s comment, her warm demeanor making the moment feel even more intimate. "That would be great," she said, her tone playful but kind. "Especially if it means keeping this one company," she added, nodding toward Ling with a knowing smile. There was a hint of teasing in her gaze, but also a genuine affection for her regular customer.
"That sounds like a never-ending suffering, Alex," Ling said, her voice deadpan but with a playful glint in her eye. Orm immediately reacted, lightly smacking Ling's arm. "Hey!" Orm whined, her tone full of mock indignation. "I'm not that bad," she added, giving Ling a dramatic pout that made Alex chuckle. "Alright, can I pay now, Alex?" Ling asked, carefully avoiding Orm's gaze, though a faint smile tugged at her lips.
"Sure, let’s get the card reader going so you girls can merrily head out of the shop," Alex said teasingly, her voice lighthearted as she gestured to the machine. Ling shook her head at the absurdity of the conversation, pulling her card from her wallet to pay.
"Hey, let me pay for my half of the order," Orm protested, leaning slightly forward as she noticed Ling tapping her card on the reader.
"Orm, didn’t I say earlier that it’s my treat?" Ling replied, fixing Orm with a pointed look, her tone playful but firm. Alex glanced between them with an amused smile, enjoying their banter as she rang up the card.
Orm sighed dramatically, squinting her amber eyes at Ling as she stepped closer. "Fine," she relented, though her tone carried a hint of mock indignation. "But next time, it will be my treat," she added, leaning in just enough to make her declaration seem more solemn, though a small smile tugged at her lips.
When they left the café, the crisp evening air greeted them, carrying a subtle chill as the last rays of sunlight faded beyond the horizon. The faint smell of rain lingered in the atmosphere, mingling with the sweet, delicate fragrance of blooming flowers from a nearby shop. Streetlights flickered to life one by one, casting a soft, golden glow over the damp pavement that shimmered faintly under the growing twilight.
Ling took the lead, her pace unhurried, guiding them through a labyrinth of familiar streets. Small, cozy houses with glowing windows and dimly lit storefronts lined their path, each adding to the tranquil charm of the evening. The gentle murmur of the city grew more distant with each step, replaced by the rhythmic sound of their footsteps on the pavement. Overhead, the first few stars began to peek through the deepening indigo sky, while a gentle breeze stirred the leaves, their soft rustling creating a serene melody that filled the quiet.
The path to the creek was narrow and winding, bordered by trees that whispered in the breeze. The air grew cooler as they ventured further in, carrying the scent of damp earth, wildflowers, and pine needles. Overhead, the branches formed a leafy canopy that filtered the fading sunlight into dappled patches of gold and shadow on the forest floor. Small plants sprouted along the trail, their delicate leaves glistening with drops of moisture from the earlier rain.
As dusk deepened, tiny pinpoints of light began to flicker in the air around them. Fireflies danced through the shadows, their soft, golden glow weaving a delicate tapestry of light amid the gathering dark. Orm’s steps slowed, her gaze drifting to the moss-covered trunks of towering oaks and the occasional flutter of wings as birds settled into their nests. The quiet of the woods was striking, the distant hum of the city giving way to the natural symphony of rustling leaves, the chirp of crickets, and the rhythmic croak of frogs. Each step seemed to draw them deeper into a world untouched by time, where the weight of their day-to-day lives could not follow.
When they reached the creek, Ling stopped, gesturing toward the water that sparkled faintly under the fading light. The creek carved a gentle path through the forest, its clear water tumbling over smooth stones and catching the last rays of sunlight in a shimmering display. Fireflies hovered near the water’s edge, their gentle illumination adding an almost ethereal quality to the scene. Around the creek, clusters of wildflowers bloomed in soft purples and yellows, their colors vivid against the deep green of the surrounding foliage.
"It’s nothing fancy," Ling said, her voice softer now, "but it’s always felt like home to me."
Orm stepped closer, crouching near the water’s edge. She traced a finger through the cool, clear stream, watching ripples spread outward until they faded against the current. "It’s perfect," she said, almost in a whisper. "I can see why you come here."
"So, is this creek your secret spot, or do you bring all your new friends there?" Orm teased, her voice light. Ling smirked, glancing over her shoulder. "Let’s just say you’re the first in a long time." Orm feigned a gasp, clutching her chest dramatically. "I feel so honored." Ling rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress her smile. "You should be."
Ling sat down on one of the smooth rocks, her legs dangling over the edge. She watched as Orm continued to dip her fingers into the cool water, her expression thoughtful. "You were right," Orm said after a moment, glancing back at Ling. "It does feel like time slows down here. Like the world isn’t rushing you to catch up."
Ling smiled faintly, her heart light. Sharing this space with someone else felt strange, but it also felt... good. "I’m glad you think so," she said.
Orm settled beside Ling, brushing her hands on her dress to dry her hand. "You know," she said, her tone quieter now, "it’s been a long time since I’ve felt this... calm. Like I don’t have to think about the next thing or where I’m supposed to be."
Ling glanced at her, the vulnerability in Orm’s words catching her off guard. "I get that," she said gently. "That’s why I come here. To breathe, to let everything else fade away for a while."
They sat in silence for a while, the only sounds of the creek’s gentle song and the occasional rustle of leaves. The stars began to appear overhead, faint at first but growing brighter as the sky deepened into night. Orm leaned back, resting on her hands as she gazed up at the heavens.
"Do you ever think about how small we are?" Orm mused, her voice soft. "Like, compared to all of this? The trees, the water, the stars... It’s humbling, but in a good way."
Ling followed her gaze, the stars reflecting in her dark eyes. "Yeah," she said after a moment. "But it’s also kind of comforting, isn’t it? Knowing there’s so much out there, and we’re just a tiny part of it."
Orm nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "It is. Makes all the little things that feel so big seem... manageable."
Ling tilted her head, studying Orm for a moment. There was a depth to her words, an unspoken weight that Ling could sense but didn’t want to push. Instead, she said, "I’m glad you came here today."
Orm turned to her, her amber eyes warm. "Me too," she said simply.
As the night deepened, neither of them made a move to leave. The creek, the stars, and the quiet between them felt like a world of their own—a small, perfect moment carved out of the chaos of life. For the first time in a long time, Ling felt like she didn’t have to guard herself, and Orm felt like she’d found a place she didn’t want to leave.
And in that shared understanding, under the blanket of stars, the steady song of the creek, and the gentle glow of fireflies weaving through the cool night air, they both knew this wasn’t just the end of a day. The fireflies floated silently above the water, their soft lights flickering in no particular rhythm as if they were simply a part of the serene stillness that surrounded them.
Orm leaned back slightly, her hands pressing against the cool, smooth surface of the rock they shared, her amber eyes quietly following the slow movements of the glowing fireflies. The rock was broad and weathered, its surface warmed earlier by the sun but now cool under the touch, positioned perfectly by the creek’s edge. Ling sat beside her, her legs dangling over the side, her dark eyes reflecting the delicate glimmers of the fireflies as she traced the soft ripples of the creek below.
The silence between them wasn’t empty—it was steady and full of unspoken understanding, the kind that didn’t need words. The creek murmured at their feet, the water catching the fireflies’ light in tiny, shimmering fragments. Above them, the stars began to fill the deepening sky, their quiet brilliance mirrored in the creek’s glassy surface.
Here, on the rock anchored by the flowing water and surrounded by the calm rhythm of the night, they let themselves simply be—two figures held in the quiet, timeless embrace of the moment.