Serendipity

Almost There

Charlotte's POV:

I picked up my blouse on the floor, putting it on once again above my head. I brushed my hair with my trembling hand and rubbed my face with it as well.

I need a breather.

I looked back once again to the sleeping form of Engfa on the couch, the steady rise and fall of her chest visible. For a minute, my eyes lingered at her peaceful figure before I decided to exit the room.

The early morning sun greeted me as I exited the door, the harsh sunlight assaulting my eyes with its bright color. I shielded my eyes using my hands as I descended to the porch steps swiftly.

Heading towards my own room, my heart raced with the intensity of last night's memories replaying in my mind.

I had given myself to her completely, and I didn't regret a single moment of it. Waking up beside her every morning was something I cherished deeply, but right now, I needed a moment to myself.

Lost in my thoughts, I was oblivious to the distant voices. As I passed by a small cottage overlooking the sea, I failed to notice a group of people gathered there, their presence hidden by my preoccupation.

"Char!" Heidi's voice cut through my thoughts, pulling me abruptly out of my reverie. I stopped in my tracks and turned to see her and the others waving enthusiastically, beckoning me to join them.

Perfect timing. Being around them was exactly what I needed to calm my racing heart.

With purposeful strides, I hurried over and entered the cottage, joining them with a relieved smile.

"Good morning, Manager," Marima greeted cheerfully as I settled into the bamboo chair beside her.

"Morning," I replied, my voice slightly hurried. I noticed Heidi and Tina exchanging knowing looks, a mischievous smirk playing on their faces.

"You're blushing, are you alright?" Win asked from across the table, his concern palpable.

Heidi walked around the table and nudged Marima aside, taking her seat beside me. "Yeah, you do look flushed," she teased, her tone feigning innocence and amusement. "Are you feeling hot?"

"Cut it out," I muttered through clenched teeth. But I couldn't help my smile from forming. Besides, the happiness I felt right now despite the chaos was undeniable.

I shot Heidi a glare, but she only responded with a playful grin. I sighed inwardly. Maybe joining them here was a mistake. I just shook my head as I let out a breathy laugh.

My stomach churned as I caught sight of Engfa in the distance, making her way towards the cottage. She wore a simple white muscle tee and sweatpants, her genuine, bright smile lighting up her face. It was an unusual sight, if you didn't know her the way that I do.

"Oh, the boss is already awake," Marima exclaimed, clearly surprised. Engfa Waraha was not known for being a morning person. Normally, at this hour, she'd either be out getting wasted somewhere in the unseen corners of this place or still fast asleep.

"Morning, everyone," Engfa greeted with a warm smile as she entered the cottage. Heidi swiftly vacated the spot beside me, leaving it empty for Engfa to occupy. She settled in beside me, her hand finding the small of my back and gently caressing it.

The touch sent a shiver down my spine, confirming Heidi's earlier jest—I was definitely feeling hot.

"You didn't wake me," Engfa murmured softly, leaning in close to my ear.

Tina and Heidi noticed immediately.

Tina cleared her throat pointedly, prompting me to gently nudge Engfa away. "Would you like some coffee, Engfa?" Tina asked with a teasing smile, her eyes twinkling mischievously.