No Doubts Between Us

As they arrived at the venue, Film felt a shift in the air. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, the crowd thick with chatter, excitement, and the occasional curious glance thrown their way. And as much as she tried to ignore it, she felt something stir inside her the moment Namtan stepped forward toward Faye's family and friends.

She had known this moment was coming. Had told herself over and over that she had nothing to be nervous about. She was over Faye. Faye was happily married. She had been nothing but supportive of Film and Namtan's relationship.

And yet.

As she stood there, watching the two of them approach—the woman she had once loved, now hand-in-hand with someone else—Film couldn't shake the feeling of being slightly out of place. Like a forgotten character in a story that had moved on without her.

Namtan walked beside her, composed, but Film could feel the slight tremor in her fingers where they were already laced with hers—a quiet, instinctive grip that tightened ever so slightly as they approached. A small tell, but one Film recognized.

"Hi," Namtan greeted, her voice steady. But Film caught the slight tension in her stance, the way she squared her shoulders, preparing herself. "It's good to see you all again."

There was a brief pause before warmth broke through the gathering tension.

Faye's mother beamed, eyes crinkling with joy before she pulled Namtan into a firm, affectionate hug.

"There you are, dear," she murmured, squeezing her tightly before leaning back to cup her face, the way a mother would with a beloved daughter. The familiarity of it tugged at something in Film's chest—something wistful, something aching.

Faye's father, more reserved but no less kind, patted Namtan's shoulder with an approving nod. "Congratulations, Namtan. We're so proud of you."

Namtan's shoulders loosened, her nervous energy melting into something lighter. She smiled—relieved, grateful. But the moment of comfort was short-lived.

Because then, her eyes flickered toward Faye and Yoko.

The shift was subtle but noticeable. The way her fingers curled ever so slightly. The brief hesitation in her breath. And Film felt it too.

For the first time, they were all here. Together.

Namtan turned to Film, her expression unreadable, but there was something in her gaze—something like uncertainty. A silent question hanging between them. How were they supposed to do this?

She hesitated only for a second before clearing her throat.

"Uh, Yoko—this is Film."

It was such a simple introduction, but the weight of it settled between them.

Film had told herself it wouldn't be weird. That she wouldn't let it be. But standing here now, with Faye watching and Yoko smiling at her like she wasn't the ex-girlfriend, like she wasn't a leftover piece of some old history, Film felt a moment of unease.

What was she supposed to say? Hi, I used to date your wife?

But before the silence could stretch too long, Yoko stepped forward—warm, confident, utterly at ease. And then, to Film's complete surprise, she wrapped her in a hug.

"Finally," Yoko said, her voice bright with genuine warmth. "It's nice to officially meet you. I'm a big fan."

The tension in Film's chest unraveled instantly.

She let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, the tightness in her ribs loosening. It wasn't what she had expected. And yet, somehow, it felt easy. Natural.

She found herself smiling, relaxing into the embrace before pulling back slightly. "Yeah. It's nice to meet you too."

When they pulled away, Faye stepped in next, giving Film a quick but firm hug.

"I'm really glad you came," she murmured, squeezing her shoulder before stepping back.

And just like that, the last of Film's lingering doubts vanished. This wasn't weird. It wasn't uncomfortable. It was just... normal.

Then, before she could fully process everything, Faye's mom turned to her with that same motherly warmth she'd always had and pulled Film into a tight hug.

Film nearly lost her composure right then and there.

"We missed you, Film," she whispered. "You were like a daughter to me. It hurt when you stopped visiting us... but I understood. And I'm just glad you're here now." Then, with a teasing lilt in her voice, she added, "And maybe, just maybe, you'll be my daughter again—who knows?"

Laughter bubbled around them as everyone caught the playful remark, and Film let out a soft chuckle of her own. But it was Namtan's reaction that caught her attention—her face flushed deep red, her eyes flickering between Film and Faye's mom in mild embarrassment.

Before Film could tease her about it, Namtan gently squeezed her hand and turned to her with a small smile.

"Film, this is Sonya," she said, her voice carrying that familiar warmth.

Before Film could respond, Sonya stepped forward with an easy grin and pulled her into a hug.

"I've heard so much about you," she said, her tone playful yet sincere. "It's nice to finally meet the famous Film in person."

Film let out a small laugh, some of the lingering tension in her shoulders easing. "All good things, I hope."

Sonya smirked. "Mostly."

Just like Yoko, Sonya held her tightly, her voice soft but filled with meaning. "We're really glad you came. You've made Namtan so happy."

Film swallowed past the sudden lump in her throat and gave a small smile. "She makes me happy too."

And in that moment, standing among old ties and new bonds, Film's gaze landed on Nicha—teary-eyed yet smiling at her with undeniable warmth. It hit her then—she wasn't just here as Namtan's girlfriend. She was here as someone who was welcomed, accepted, and maybe, in some small way, had never truly been gone from this family after all.

---

Before the event started, an official approached them, looking slightly flustered.

"Miss Faye," the event official greeted respectfully, offering a polite nod. "As per your request, we've arranged a reserved seating area for you and your companions. The crowd is getting overwhelming, and we want to ensure you're all comfortable and undisturbed."

Faye nodded in appreciation. She had called ahead, wanting to make sure that Yoko—her celebrity wife—as well as Film, a Hollywood actress and Namtan's girlfriend, would have a peaceful space to watch the event. "Thank you. That's very generous and thoughtful of you."

She turned to Film and the others, flashing a knowing smile. "Let's go before we get swallowed by the chaos."

Film glanced over her shoulder at the growing crowd. People were already sneaking glances in their direction, whispering, some even subtly holding up their phones. She had dealt with this kind of attention for years, but today wasn't about her. Today was about Namtan.

Before following Faye's family, Film turned back to Namtan, wrapping her in a quick but firm embrace. She pressed a lingering kiss to her temple, her lips curling into a smile as she whispered, "I'm so proud of you."

Namtan squeezed her hand in return, her eyes shining with emotion. "Thank you babe, I'll see you after."

With a final reluctant step back, Film let herself be led to the private seating area. The moment she settled into her chair, she exhaled, relieved to be away from the overwhelming buzz of the crowd.

And then the ceremony began.

All eyes turned to Namtan.

And Film couldn't take her eyes off her.

She looked radiant, standing on that stage, her name being called, the pride in her expression undeniable. And when the moment came, when she took her oath, Film felt something tighten in her chest—something powerful, something deep.

She was so proud.

They all clapped, cheered, and when Namtan finally turned to look at them, her gaze found Film's instantly. The softest smile graced her lips.

Film smiled back.

Yeah. She was exactly where she needed to be.

---

The celebration once again took place at the Malisorn mansion. Though it was an intimate gathering—just family and close friends—the energy in the room was light and joyous, filled with warmth, laughter, and the clinking of glasses.

To Namtan's delight, Oaey had also attended the event, bringing along her grandmother and sister, Leah. Seeing them there, smiling proudly at her, made the moment even more special. The moment her eyes landed on them, she felt a wave of emotions—relief, gratitude, and overwhelming love. Without hesitation, she pulled Oaey into a tight hug, holding on a little longer than usual, as if trying to silently convey how much it meant to her that they were here.

"You didn't tell me you were coming," Namtan said, her voice filled with happiness, a slight tremble betraying just how deeply she was moved.

Oaey grinned, mischief twinkling in her eyes. "Oh, so when you sent me the invitation, you didn't actually want us to come?" she teased.

Namtan let out a laugh, shaking her head. "No, silly. I just—I didn't expect—" Her words trailed off as Leah stepped forward, throwing her arms around her.

"Hey, playmate," Leah said softly, squeezing her tight. "Congratulations. I'm really, really proud of you. And I missed you."

Namtan swallowed against the sudden lump in her throat as she hugged Leah back. "I missed you too," she whispered.

Then, just as she pulled away, Oaey's grandmother stepped forward, her frail but unwavering arms wrapping around Namtan in an embrace that felt like home—warm, steady, and full of unspoken understanding.

The hug was tight, as if she were trying to pour a lifetime of love into this single moment, trying to pass on every ounce of pride and affection she carried in her heart.

Namtan barely had time to brace herself before she felt the gentle tremor of the elderly woman's breath against her ear.

"Your mother and grandmother would be so proud of you, Namtan," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Just as I am. So, so proud."

The words crashed over Namtan like a tidal wave, raw and all-consuming. A rush of emotions surged through her—love, longing, grief, and something deeper, something sacred.

Her chest tightened, her breath catching as the ache of years without them settled into her bones. She squeezed her eyes shut, as if that could hold back the flood, but the tears slipped free anyway—silent, unrestrained, tracing paths down her cheeks.

She clung to Oaey's grandmother, her fingers curling into the soft fabric of her sleeves, grounding herself in the warmth, in the presence of someone who carried echoes of the family she had lost.

For the first time in a long time, Namtan didn't feel the absence.

She felt them here.

In the love wrapped around her. In the pride shining through trembling words.

And as she wept—grief and gratitude intertwining—she allowed herself to believe it.

That they were watching. That they were proud.

That she was never truly alone.

And that was the moment Film walked in.

With little Tori beside her, Film had been looking for Namtan when she noticed the emotional exchange. She hesitated for a second, not wanting to intrude, but as Namtan pulled away from the embrace and wiped at her tears with a soft laugh, she turned and met Film's eyes.

Taking a deep breath, Namtan reached for Film's hand and gently pulled her closer. "Grandma, Leah, Oaey... this is Film."

Leah's eyes widened comically, her mouth falling open in shock. "No way," she breathed, looking between Namtan and Film.

Oaey, on the other hand, simply nodded, offering Film a knowing smile.

Film felt a flicker of nerves but quickly pushed them aside. Through Namtan's stories, she knew how important these people were to her. She knew how deeply they cared for Namtan, and in a way, she wanted their approval too.

Without hesitation, Film turned to Oaey and, much to the latter's surprise, pulled her into a quick but sincere embrace.

"I owe you an apology," Film murmured. "For being a snob when we first met."

Oaey chuckled as she pulled back, waving it off with a casual shrug. "Don't worry about it. I get it now," she said, her gaze flickering briefly to Namtan. "And just so you know, you have nothing to be worried about. Namtan and I... we're just good friends."

Film exhaled, nodding as the last of her unease melted away.

Then, just as she turned, her gaze landed on Oaey's grandmother. Without thinking twice, she stepped forward and wrapped the elderly woman in a gentle but firm hug.

"Thank you," Film whispered against her ear, her voice thick with sincerity. "For looking out for Namtan. For being there when she needed family."

Oaey's grandmother stilled for a moment before pulling Film in even tighter, patting her back with the same warmth she had always given Namtan.

"You love her, don't you?" she murmured knowingly.

Film smiled, her eyes burning slightly as she pulled away just enough to meet the woman's gaze. "With everything I have," she admitted, no hesitation in her voice.

A soft, approving smile spread across the older woman's face before she turned to Namtan, her frail but unwavering arms reaching out to pull her in next.

And in that warmth, Namtan knew—she had everything she had ever needed, right here.

---

The celebration continued, glasses clinking together in joyous toasts, laughter bubbling through the warm night air. Conversations flowed easily, the energy in the room electric yet comforting—a perfect balance of nostalgia and new beginnings. It was a night filled with love, support, and the quiet realization that no matter how much things had changed, some bonds would always remain unshaken.

"To Namtan!" someone cheered, raising their glass.

"To our newly sworn-in professional!" Kiera added with a teasing smirk, already deep in conversation with everyone at the event—though most notably, she was especially close to Sonya, the two of them laughing like they'd known each other forever. Anne and Rob had seamlessly blended into the crowd as well, Rob already exchanging drinks with Frank like they were longtime buddies.

Film, never one to be outdone, lifted her own glass with a cheeky grin. "To my beautiful, smart, and absolutely incredible girlfriend."

Namtan groaned, rolling her eyes—but the way her lips twitched betrayed her amusement. "Oh, now you're being sweet? Where was all this earlier?"

"Busy being emotional over you," Film shot back with a wink.

Across the table, Faye chuckled, shaking her head. "Some things never change. You're still dramatic, Film."

Film gasped, feigning offense. "Hey, you used to love my dramatics."

Yoko, sitting beside Faye, raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Should I be worried?"

Faye smirked, then she reached for Yoko and pulled her closer, tucking her securely against her side. "Absolutely not."

Before Film could add to the theatrics, Namtan turned to her with a teasing glint in her eyes. "Should I be worried?" she asked, squeezing Film's hand under the table.

Film grinned, leaning in slightly. "Depends... how much do you love my dramatics?"

Namtan rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the fond smile tugging at her lips.

The whole table erupted into laughter, Film clutching her chest in mock betrayal before Namtan shook her head fondly and pulled her into a warm hug.

As Film melted into the embrace, she felt Namtan's breath against her ear, soft and full of affection.

"I love all of you," Namtan whispered, her voice just for Film. "Including your dramatics."

Film felt her heart skip a beat before a slow, genuine smile spread across her face. She tightened her hold on Namtan for just a moment, letting the warmth of her words settle deep.

Any lingering awkwardness that had once been there had completely disappeared—replaced with easy banter, lighthearted teasing, and the kind of atmosphere that made it feel like everything had fallen into place exactly as it should.

As the night stretched on and the celebration softened into a quiet hum, the world around them seemed to fade, leaving only the two of them in the glow of dim lights and whispered laughter. Namtan leaned into Film's side, her fingers tracing slow, deliberate circles along her wrist—an unspoken confession in every touch, a silent promise woven into the space between them.

Film felt the warmth of it, the weight of it, settling deep in her chest.

"Thank you for being here," Namtan murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, yet heavy with meaning. It wasn't just gratitude—it was love, threaded into each syllable, into every glance, every lingering touch.

She pulled back just slightly, just enough to meet Film's eyes, her lips curling into a soft, teasing smile. "This time, not because I kidnapped you."

Film let out a quiet laugh, shaking her head as she tightened her hold on Namtan's hand. Then, with the kind of tenderness that left no room for doubt, she whispered, "Kidnapping or not, there's nowhere else I'd rather be."

Namtan's breath hitched, her playful smirk softening into something deeper, something unshakable.

She closed her eyes, breathing her in, sinking into the quiet certainty of this moment—this love that had weathered time, change, and uncertainty.

And in that moment—wrapped in the glow of fading lights, surrounded by the echoes of laughter and the hushed melody of something eternal—Namtan knew.

Knew with absolute certainty that no matter what came next, no matter how unpredictable the world could be, they would face it together.

Because love like this wasn't fleeting. It was written in their very bones. It was forever.

THE END

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

Hey babes,

That's a wrap! 🎉

First off, I just want to say how incredibly grateful I am for all the love, support, and patience you've shown this story. Honestly, I couldn't have finished it without you! ❤️

This last chapter is dedicated to @reeracha—welcome to the family, babe! Thank you for your kind words. 🥰

Also, a huge thank you for all the votes, comments, and endless support throughout this journey. I wish I could mention every single one of you, but please know that I appreciate and love you all! 💖

Shoutout to:

@thirlwallslvr @MS_2285 @PatiWave @Queenfatou @thekhoney19 @HazardEden260 @aw23df @reeracha @duckyyyy222 @RanArchuleta @Jensolhaz @itsyouduh @JessicaJones20 @kitzie14 @Queenfatou @pizzadelivery001 @MarkinaElena198303 @tamylee89 @Fuasu55 @erio115 @pluto_aioonmay @Ritzp3 @bald_hisoka @March0997 @AriaG31 @Hhhasel @ludododo @DjhaySilawan9 @Jayjayo01 @RanArchuleta @aimy_sash @HartilynEugenio @pnutsssss @kgdkkd @yunanggie123 @March0997 @jhayemmprincipe022

There will be an epilogue after this chapter, where I'll also introduce my new story! And once again, I just want to thank every single one of you for sticking with me. I went through such a stressful and busy time while writing this, but you all were so patient and understanding.

Honestly, there were moments when I just wanted to rest and sleep (because I'm running on a serious lack of both, lol), but your reads, your votes, and your kind words kept me going. So thank you, babes!

I love you all! We'll see each other again very soon. 💕✨