Cold Attitude

15

The second day of the trip began with excitement buzzing in the air. The students gathered after breakfast, eager for the day’s activity: a hike through the scenic trails surrounding the camp. The entire class was involved, and the energy was high as they set off into the woods.

Charlotte and Engfa walked together, enjoying the morning air and the beauty of the forest. The trail was well-worn, but it had enough twists and turns to make the hike interesting. They chatted with their friends.

Halfway through the hike, the group took a short break by a small clearing. Charlotte noticed Engfa and Chompoo engrossed in conversation. A twinge of jealousy flickered inside her, but she brushed it off, telling herself it was silly to feel that way.

As they resumed the hike, Charlotte found herself a bit behind the others, her thoughts occupied. Distracted, she didn't notice a root sticking out of the ground. She tripped and fell, landing awkwardly on her leg. Pain shot through her ankle, and she let out a small cry.

Win, who was nearby, immediately rushed to her side. “Charlotte, are you alright?” he asked, concern etched on his face.

“I think I twisted my ankle,” she replied, trying to hide her frustration and pain. Win helped her to a sitting position and examined her ankle.

“Let’s get you back to the camp,” Win said, supporting her as she stood up. Charlotte leaned on him, feeling a mix of gratitude and disappointment that Engfa hadn't noticed her fall.

Back at the camp, Win helped her sit down and fetched a first aid kit. He carefully wrapped her ankle. “You should rest for a bit,” he advised.

“Thanks, Win. I really appreciate it,” Charlotte said, managing a weak smile.

Meanwhile, Engfa, still chatting with Chompoo, finally realized that Charlotte was missing. She looked around and, seeing Win helping Charlotte, quickly ran over. “Charlotte! What happened? Are you okay?”

Charlotte looked at her, a mix of emotions swirling inside. “I fell and twisted my ankle. Win helped me back here.”

Engfa’s face was full of remorse. “I’m so sorry I didn’t notice. Are you in a lot of pain?”

“It’s not too bad now,” Charlotte replied, her voice softer than she intended. “Win took care of it.”

Engfa sat next to her, holding her hand. “I’m really sorry, Charlotte. I should have been paying more attention.”

Charlotte squeezed Engfa’s hand. “It’s okay. Thank you for being here now.”

The rest of the day was more subdued for Charlotte. Engfa stayed by her side, helping her with everything and making sure she was comfortable. Charlotte appreciated the attention but remained quieter than usual, her thoughts still lingering on what had happened.

As evening approached, they returned to their cabin. Engfa sensed that Charlotte was upset, but she didn’t want to push her to talk. The other girls chatted and shared stories from the hike, but Charlotte remained lost in her thoughts.

When they finally retired to their room, Charlotte’s emotions reached a boiling point. As she opened the door, she suddenly turned around, grabbing Engfa by the collar of her T-shirt and pulling her close. Without a word, she kissed Engfa, pouring all her pent-up emotions into the kiss.

Engfa was momentarily taken aback but quickly responded, wrapping her arms around Charlotte and kissing her back just as passionately. When they finally broke apart, both were breathing heavily, their foreheads resting against each other’s.