Where Iris Bloom

Ch. 43 Labyrinth

Night descended, encircled by bamboo seats, the bonfire casted a warm glow. The atmosphere was filled with warm welcome as everyone gathered holding sumptuous plates of food, ready to enjoy the evening.

Meanwhile, Kim has set up a smaller bonfire surrounded by boulders where the kids could sit. She joined them, each of them holding a long stick, their faces filled with excitement, eager to have a memorable experience around the fire.

The volunteer doctors gathered around the main bonfire together with the other locals. Louise sat beside Iris as they eat dinner, the older doctor was animatedly telling stories whilst Iris casually nods.

All of their attention got drawn to the giggles of children who were holding sticks with marshmallows. "Wow!" The children were at awe when the marshmallow on their sticks started to melt. Their eyes were wide as they watch Kim munch on it, doing the same, they giggled with the foreign experience they are currently enjoying.

Louise paused mid-sentence when she noticed where Iris's gaze had landed. She observed a twinkle of pure admiration in the younger doctor's eyes as she watched the older woman interacting with the children, a heartwarming sight that spoke volumes and there's no way she can compete to it.

I wish u would look at me the same way you look at her. Louise sulked.

The laughter and innocent banter from the children gathered the interest of the other doctors as well. Amir, the leader of the community noticed their gaze towards Kim who was busy goofing off with the kids.

"The kids really seem to adore her," Dr. Valdez noted with a warm smile, acknowledging the genuine connection between Kim and the children. "Does she goes here frequently?" The curiosity of the doctor was certainly palpable.

"Yes, doc. Ma'am Kim often visits here to give school supplies to the kids. She also helped us get electricity in this area. Ma'am Kim has done a lot for our community; she treats us like family." Amir spoke with firm gratitude as the people around the bonfire listened.

Kim was slowly creating a mark on their minds seeing how she was around the people in the community. Though she still keep things to herself and maintain her reserves, people who interact with her seemed to be at ease with her presence.

The group stayed and talked for a while until everything that Dr. Valdez says drifts off to questions about Kim. Sensing the pattern, Iris immediately recognized that there was more into those curious questions. She was certain that Kim has captured Dr. Valdez' interest and it did not sit well to Iris.

As the night progressed, Iris felt like she's on a free fall despite the fact that they haven't spoke after their moment inside their hut. They mingled with the locals and kept distance from each other.

Up until they were at the confines of their hut, Kim maintained distance out of respect and she's still living up to her words that not until Iris is completely fine, she won't make advances towards the younger woman. After she bid good night to the young doctor, she turned her back and tried her best to fall asleep coz her heart was becoming untamed with its desires.

"Looks like Dr. Valdez is kinda impressed with you." Iris did the same and turned her back.

"Impressed with what?" Kim blurted like it was the most ridiculous thing she has ever heard.

"I don't know. Why don't you try to find out?" Iris spat out with bitterness, pulling the blanket into her chest.

Kim sat down as the blanket got snatched away leaving her exposed to the crisp air. "What? I was having fun with the kids! I don't even know what you're talking about." Kim argued. "Are you jealous?"