CH-11

A sleek black car came to a stop in front of an elegant mansion, its grand iron gate standing tall and a meticulously maintained garden surrounding the property. From inside the car, Orm stepped out slowly. She stood still for a moment, gazing at the house with a mix of emotions. On one hand, moving in with Ling seemed practical—it would save her both time and energy. But on the other, an inexplicable sense of unease lingered in her heart.

Despite spending so much time together, living under the same roof introduced a new dynamic that made her slightly hesitant. The thought had kept her up all night, and even by morning, she was still debating whether this was the right decision.

"Are you just going to stand there?" A voice broke through her thoughts.

Ling stood at the doorway, watching her with a soft smile, as if she could read exactly what was on Orm’s mind.

Orm snapped out of her daze and quickly shook her head. "I’ll start bringing my things in, Phi," she replied, a little awkwardly. She hurried to the car’s trunk, pulling out her suitcase and bags.

Seeing her struggle with the luggage, Ling walked over without saying much. "Let me help," she offered, swiftly taking Orm’s largest suitcase.

Orm wanted to protest, but Ling had already taken the suitcase inside. Not wanting to seem stubborn, she simply grabbed the remaining bags and followed Ling in.

"Which room will I be staying in, Phi?" Orm finally asked after passing through the spacious and elegantly furnished living room.

"My room," Ling answered casually without looking back.

"Huh?" Orm froze in her tracks, eyes widening in shock.

Ling stopped as well, turning with a small smirk before quickly clarifying, "I mean, you’ll stay in the room next to mine."

"Oh," Orm exhaled in relief. For a moment, she thought she’d have to share a room with Ling, and the mere thought sent her heart racing.

Ling nodded and continued up the stairs. "Come on, I’ll show you to your room," she said, still carrying Orm’s suitcase effortlessly.

Following Ling from behind, Orm took in the luxurious yet cozy ambiance of the house. The room Ling had mentioned was on the second floor, directly across from her own. Once they arrived, Ling pushed the door open and stepped inside, with Orm trailing behind in silence.

"Make yourself at home. No need to be shy," Ling said with a warm smile, her gaze sincere.

Orm gave a small nod. "Alright, P’Ling. Thank you." Her voice was barely above a whisper. "I’ll start unpacking now."

"Alright then," Ling replied, her smile widening before she finally left the room.

Once Ling had gone, Orm sat at the edge of the bed, letting her eyes wander around the space. The room was far bigger and more luxurious than her apartment. And starting today, this would be her home—at least until Ling’s filming schedule was over.

•••••

Ling stared intently at the thick stack of papers in her hands. The script for My Cherie Amour, the series she would be starring in, seemed quite challenging. The dialogue was heavy, filled with formal language rarely used in everyday speech, considering the series was set in a royal court during the 90s. Every now and then, Ling mumbled to herself, repeating lines she was trying to memorize.

"This isn't too difficult… It's just the language…" she murmured under her breath, struggling to pronounce certain words.

Meanwhile, Orm had just stepped out of her room after tidying up her belongings. She noticed Ling sitting in the living room, script in hand, looking completely absorbed in her work. A small smile formed on Orm’s lips as she admired Ling’s dedication. Quietly, she walked over.

"Are you practicing your lines, P’?" Orm asked as she sat beside Ling.

Ling glanced at her and gave a faint smile. "Yeah. There’s no filming today, so I figured I’d stay home and focus on the script," she replied, holding up the papers in her hands. "Are you getting ready to head to campus?"

Orm glanced at her watch before responding, "My class starts at eleven, so I still have about an hour before I need to leave."

Ling nodded, her gaze returning to the script momentarily. After a brief pause, she looked at Orm again. "Since you’re still here, can you help me practice?"

Orm blinked in surprise but soon nodded with a small smile. "How do you want me to help, P’?"

Ling’s lips curled into a broader smile, her eyes gleaming with an idea. "I need you to help me run through my dialogue. In this series, my character has a lover. So… maybe you can pretend to be my lover for this scene?"

"L-Lover?" Orm felt her heartbeat quicken. "Did you ever ask Kwang to practice with you like this?" she asked, trying to shift the focus elsewhere.

Ling chuckled softly and nodded. "Yes, Kwang has helped me practice many times. But never for a scene like this."

"What do you mean, P’?" Orm asked, puzzled.

Ling placed the script on the table and shifted closer to Orm. "I want to practice a romantic scene. In this part, my character is the one initiating intimacy, and I need to work on how to portray that naturally. What do you think? Can you help me?" Her voice was calm, but there was an unmistakable seriousness in her expression.

"A… romantic scene?" Orm’s eyes widened, completely caught off guard. Her pulse quickened, but Ling remained composed, smiling at her as if it were just another task to complete.

"Yes," Ling replied casually. "I need you to help me act out a few moments from this scene so I can really embody the character."

Orm hesitated. A part of her felt awkward, but another part recognized that Ling was genuinely asking for her help with no hidden intentions—at least, that’s what Orm tried to convince herself. After a moment of internal debate, she gave a small nod.

"Alright, I’ll help you, P’," she finally said.

Ling’s eyes sparkled with delight. "Great. Let’s get started," she said, picking up the script briefly before placing it back down again.

She leaned in closer, her hand slowly reaching out to touch Orm’s. The sudden contact sent a small jolt of tension through the air. "In this scene, my character gently approaches her lover," Ling said, her gaze locked onto Orm’s.

Orm held her breath, her eyes flickering down to where Ling’s fingers lightly held hers. No words escaped her lips—only the sensation of growing nervousness.

Ling slowly lifted Orm’s hand to her lips, pressing a soft kiss on the back of it. Her eyes never left Orm’s, as if ensuring that every movement left an impression. Then, her hand trailed downward, gliding from Orm’s wrist to her thigh. The motion was deliberate, calm yet undeniably charged. Ling moved in closer, their faces mere inches apart.

Orm’s heartbeat thundered in her chest, so loud she was sure Ling could hear it. Ling’s warm breath brushed against her ear, and when her lips ghosted over Orm’s cheek, Orm’s body tensed. The touch was featherlight, yet it sent a wave of unfamiliar emotions coursing through her.

Ling didn’t stop there—her fingers gently tucked a strand of Orm’s hair behind her ear, her touch lingering just a little too long.

"Is this enough to prove that I love you?" Ling whispered near Orm’s ear, her voice barely above a breath. Her fingertips subtly traced over Orm’s thigh, leaving behind a trail of heat that blurred the line between fiction and reality.

Orm swallowed hard, her mind struggling to process everything. "Um…" she managed to murmur, nodding faintly. She knew this was just practice, yet something in Ling’s tone and movements felt far too real. It left her breathless, her body frozen in place despite knowing she should just treat this as an act.

Ling’s lips curled into a small smile—one that held an unspoken depth. "I could prove it even more… if I truly loved you," she murmured, voice quieter, almost as if she intended only for Orm to hear. Her nose lightly brushed against Orm’s cheek, and she inhaled deeply, as if savoring the moment.

Orm felt herself losing grip on reality, her body betraying her logic.

Then, without much warning, Ling gently guided Orm backward until she was lying on the couch. The movement was slow, careful, ensuring that Orm wasn’t resisting. Orm followed, her back pressing against the cushions while Ling hovered over her. A small smirk played on Ling’s lips—a smirk that carried an unreadable meaning.

Ling inched even closer, her breath warming Orm’s skin. Orm could hardly move, her thoughts racing too fast to form a coherent reaction. Doubts filled her mind, yet curiosity lingered, pulling her deeper into the moment.

As Ling leaned in, Orm’s eyes widened, anticipation thick in the air. The intensity of the scene built up—until Ling finally placed a soft kiss on the tip of Orm’s nose. The delicate gesture sent a shiver down Orm’s spine. Ling then gently nuzzled their noses together, erasing whatever little space was left between them.

Orm’s eyes fluttered shut, as if instinctively knowing what was about to happen next. Her heartbeat remained erratic, her body still trapped between tension and confusion.

Then suddenly—

A loud ringtone shattered the silence.

The unexpected sound jolted both of them back to reality. Orm’s eyes snapped open, her mind abruptly pulled away from the intensity of the moment. Without thinking, she placed her hands against Ling’s chest and pushed her back slightly, creating some much-needed space.

"I need to take this call, P’Ling," Orm stammered, fumbling to grab her phone from her pocket. Her voice wavered, as if she desperately needed an excuse to escape. Without waiting for Ling’s response, she quickly stood up and walked away, answering the call with her back turned.

Ling remained seated on the couch, watching Orm’s retreating figure with a look of frustration. Her breathing was slightly uneven—not from exertion, but from unfulfilled anticipation.

"Almost… Just a little more," she muttered under her breath, annoyed that such a trivial thing as a phone call had interrupted the moment. Letting out a deep sigh, she grabbed the script from the table, trying to refocus.

A few minutes later, Orm reappeared in the living room, looking slightly flustered. "P’Ling, I have to go now," she said, glancing at Ling, who was still holding the script.

Ling furrowed her brows, clearly surprised. "Now? But your class doesn’t start until eleven."

Orm nodded quickly. "My professor moved the class earlier, so I have to leave right away," she explained, her voice steady despite the lingering awkwardness.

"Hm… Alright then," Ling replied, keeping her answer short.

Orm hurried into her room to grab her bag and keys, the air still thick with unspoken tension. Moments later, she reemerged, already prepared to leave.

"I’ll be going now, P’Ling," she said, flashing a small, hesitant smile before quickly heading out the door.

Once the door closed, Ling leaned back against the couch, staring at the ceiling with an empty expression. She took a deep breath, trying to shake off the lingering disappointment in her chest.

If only she had moved just a little faster, she might have gotten the chance to kiss Orm—just as she had wanted.

•••••

The clock showed 1 p.m. Orm stood near her car, occasionally glancing around as if waiting for someone who was running late. The scorching sunlight reflected off the asphalt beneath her feet, making the air feel even hotter than usual. Despite that, she remained patient, standing tall while checking her phone.

Not long after, a hand tapped her shoulder from behind, prompting Orm to turn around immediately. Behind her stood Meen, a weary smile on her face.

"Sorry for making you wait so long," Meen said with a slightly apologetic tone.

"P'Meen..." Orm looked at her with concern, then, without hesitation, cupped Meen's cheeks. "What happened to your face? Why do you have bruises like this? Did you get into a fight with someone?" she asked in rapid succession, her eyes fixed on the marks on Meen’s cheek, clearly filled with worry.

Meen gave a faint smile, placing his hand over Orm’s, which was still resting on her cheek. "No, it's just a small injury. I accidentally hit myself on something in my apartment," he replied casually, as if the bruise on his face was nothing serious.

Orm let out a relieved sigh upon hearing the explanation. "Thank goodness," she murmured, withdrawing her hands from Meen’s face. "I thought you got into a fight with someone."

Meen chuckled softly. "That would never happen. I'm old enough to stay out of those kinds of situations," he replied, this time with a wider smile. "By the way, thanks for agreeing to my request. My parents insisted on having lunch with you before they leave today."

"It's no problem, Phi. Luckily, I have no work today, so I can easily make time," Orm replied with a warm smile, showing her genuine enthusiasm for the plan.

Meen's smile grew even more satisfied. "In that case, shall we head out now?" he asked, extending his hand toward Orm.

"Let's go!" Orm answered eagerly, firmly taking Meen’s hand. Together, they walked toward Meen’s car, ready to leave for their lunch together.

.

.

.

.

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After a long journey, Meen and Orm finally arrived in front of an upscale restaurant. The establishment exuded elegance, with its classic architecture and soft lighting creating an exclusive atmosphere. Meen stepped out of the car first and, with a considerate gesture, opened the door for Orm, extending her hand.

"Thank you, P'Meen," Orm said as she stepped out, flashing a warm smile at Meen. She instinctively slipped her hand into Meen’s, and they walked side by side toward the restaurant entrance.

Inside, a waiter guided them to a reserved table where Meen’s parents were already waiting. Their faces lit up at the sight of Meen and Orm approaching.

"Sawadeekha, Khun Mae, Khun Phoo," Orm greeted Meen’s mother and father respectfully, bowing slightly as a sign of courtesy.

"Orm!" Meen’s mother called out enthusiastically, a bright smile spreading across her face. Without hesitation, she pulled Orm into a brief embrace, clearly delighted by her presence. "Come, have a seat, dear," she added warmly.

Orm nodded and took her seat, with Meen settling beside her. Meen watched quietly, a small smile forming as he observed the interaction between Orm and his mother. Soon, they placed their orders, selecting from the restaurant’s refined menu before continuing their conversation as they waited for the food.

"I'm so glad Meen finally brought you here," Meen’s mother said, her voice filled with joy and satisfaction. She glanced at Meen, as if to suggest that she had been waiting for this moment for quite some time.

"Orm has been busy with her studies and work, so she only just found the time now, Phoo, Mae," Meen replied with a polite smile directed at his parents.

Orm quickly added, "I apologize for only being able to accept your invitation now, Khun Phoo, Khun Mae." She lowered her head slightly, showing both respect and regret for not coming sooner.

"It's all right, dear," Meen’s father responded with a warm smile. "Meen already told us that you just started working, so we completely understand."

Orm felt relieved by his understanding words. "Yes, I wanted to gain new experiences, so I decided to work while continuing my studies," she explained, hoping to reassure them about her situation.

Just as the conversation seemed to settle, Meen’s father suddenly made a remark that slightly shifted the atmosphere. "If you marry Meen, you wouldn't have to worry about working. She would provide everything for you."

Orm offered a faint smile, while Meen responded with a small grin, choosing not to comment further.

Moments later, Meen’s mother posed a question that made both Meen and Orm exchange glances. "You two have been together for quite some time. Have you thought about getting married or at least getting engaged?"

For a brief moment, silence filled the table. Meen gazed at Orm, searching for the right response. After a few seconds, he finally spoke, his voice calm and composed. "We’ll discuss that once Orm finishes her master’s degree. There’s no need to rush, Phoo, Mae."

However, Meen’s mother seemed unsatisfied with that answer. "You don’t have to get married right away, but an engagement would be nice. That way, Meen won’t be tempted to look at other women. Right, N'Orm?"

Orm chuckled softly before responding. "P'Meen wouldn’t dare look at anyone else—he’s already completely obsessed with me," she teased playfully, keeping the mood light and affectionate.

Not wanting to be outdone, Meen immediately wrapped an arm around Orm’s shoulders. "That’s right! Just look at her—who wouldn’t be obsessed with Orm Kornnaphat?" he said with a proud grin before playfully pinching Orm’s cheek. "I’m already crazy about her, Phoo, Mae. So, don’t worry, I won’t be looking at anyone else."

Meen’s father smiled at his daughter's words but still offered a firm reminder. "Then keep your word as a man of integrity. Don’t bring shame to me."

With unwavering confidence, Meen quickly responded, "I promise to take good care of Orm, just as I always have. No need to worry, Phoo." he then gently brushed a strand of hair behind Orm’s ear, a subtle yet affectionate gesture.

The conversation at the table continued with a much lighter atmosphere. Though the topic of marriage briefly introduced a moment of tension, both Orm and Meen skillfully maintained a warm and cheerful energy. Meen’s parents seemed pleased, while Meen and Orm supported each other, demonstrating a bond that was strong and full of trust—despite the complicated circumstances surrounding their relationship.

•••••

"Thank you, P’Meen, for driving me home," Orm said as she stepped out of Meen’s car. A faint smile appeared on her lips, feeling relieved after the long journey.

Meen glanced at the grand house standing before him. "So, you're staying here now?" he asked, slightly surprised by the luxurious sight.

"Yes, but only temporarily, until P’Ling’s filming is finished," Orm replied with a lighthearted smile, trying to explain casually.

Meen nodded slowly, as if lost in thought. "I see..." he murmured, his lips curling into a subtle smile as his gaze remained on Orm. "Thanks again for making time to meet my parents. And... sorry about the questions earlier," he added sincerely.

Orm shook her head gently. "It’s fine, Phi. From the beginning, we agreed to help each other with this," she said casually, as if reaffirming their mutual arrangement.

The arrangement itself was rather complicated. Orm and Meen had agreed to pretend to be in a relationship in front of their parents. It was all to keep their families happy. More than that, Meen had asked for Orm’s help to conceal the fact that she liked men—something she wasn’t ready to reveal to her family yet.

Meen let out a small smile before teasing, "Have you ever thought about what it would be like if I actually liked you and we were dating for real?"

Orm chuckled at the question. "I did, back when we first met. But honestly, I’m just glad we both like same gender," she replied lightheartedly, reminiscing about their first encounter.

Meen laughed along, then opened the back door of his car and took out a few shopping bags. "These are yours," he said, handing them to Orm.

"Thank you, Phi," Orm replied warmly as she accepted the bags. She then glanced at the bruise on Meen’s face. "Don’t forget to treat that bruise."

Meen simply smiled, placing a hand on Orm’s head before leaning in slightly. "Don’t worry about it. It’s just a small injury."

"A small injury can turn into something worse if you ignore it," Orm shot back, making Meen chuckle.

Meanwhile, inside the house, Ling was sitting in the living room, wearing her earphones. When she heard voices outside, she took them off and got up from her seat, curiosity flickering in her mind.

As soon as she opened the door, she saw Orm laughing with a man. Her mood shifted instantly. A strange heat spread through her chest, something she couldn’t quite put into words.

"Sawadee, Khun Ling," Meen greeted politely upon noticing Ling’s presence.

Orm quickly turned around, finding Ling standing in the doorway. Her heart pounded at the sight of Ling’s expression—her gaze was sharp and cold, almost as if she wanted to kill someone.

"Sawadeekha," Ling finally responded after a brief silence, her voice flat.

Meen remained relaxed, flashing a casual smile. "It’s an honor to finally meet Thailand’s top actress in person," he said smoothly, his eyes holding an unreadable look.

Sensing the growing tension, Orm quickly interrupted. "P’Meen, you should head home now. It’s already late," she said, lightly patting Meen’s shoulder.

"Huh? I just wanted to chat a little with Khun Ling," Meen replied, still unfazed.

"Go home," Orm insisted, this time with a firmer tone.

Meen sighed in defeat. "Alright, I’ll go," he said, giving in. "About your car, I’ll take care of it soon."

"Thanks a lot, Phi," Orm responded with a small smile.

"See you," Meen said as he waved at Orm before stepping into his car. Then, she turned to Ling. "Until we meet again, Khun Ling."

Orm stood in the front yard, watching as Meen’s car disappeared down the road. Once it was completely out of sight, she let out a deep breath and turned around. She briefly met Ling’s eyes before Ling looked away and stepped inside without a word.

Orm followed her in, feeling the heavy atmosphere settle around them. In the living room, Ling sat on the couch, silent. Orm hesitated, unsure of how to start a conversation.

"Have you had dinner, P’Ling?" she finally asked, attempting to break the awkward silence.

"I have," Ling replied curtly, not even looking up from the book in her hands.

"Alright, then... I’ll head to my room. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask," Orm said, trying to keep her tone light.

"I don’t need anything. You should get some rest. You must be tired after spending time with your boyfriend."

Orm froze, momentarily speechless. She could only watch as Ling stood up and walked away, leaving her standing alone in the living room. She scratched the back of her neck absentmindedly, wondering what exactly had made Ling act so cold.