The Story of Us | LingOrm

Chapter 4: The Obvious Unseen

It had been a week since the family gathering at the Sethratanapong's residence and both girls found themselves back in the familiar rhythm of their hectic schedule. The set buzzed with activity, a cacophony of voices, clattering equipment, and the occasional shout of "Action!" filling the air.

Their days became a blur of costume changes and camera flashes. One moment, they were posing for a high-fashion magazine spread, Ling's elegant poise complementing Orm's vibrant energy as they showcased the latest trends. The next, they were filming a commercial for a luxury perfume brand, the sweet, heady scent clinging to their skin long after the director called "Cut!"

At a glitzy event for a prestigious watch company, Ling found herself mesmerized by the way the spotlights caught the delicate features of Orm's face as she charmed the attendees with her effervescent personality. The gentle tick of the timepieces seemed to fade into the background, overshadowed by the rhythm of Ling's quickening heartbeat.

Despite the exhaustion that tugged at their bones, both women approached each new project with genuine enthusiasm. Ling marveled at Orm's ability to light up every room she entered, her laughter infectious as she bantered with talk show hosts and YouTube personalities alike.

At fan events, Ling watched with a mixture of pride and something deeper, something she wasn't quite ready to name, as Orm interacted with their supporters. She'd crouch down to speak with younger fans, her face animated as she listened to their stories. She'd accept gifts with genuine gratitude, her eyes lighting up whether it was a handmade card or an elaborate bouquet.

Through it all, Ling found herself drawn more and more into Orm's orbit, like a planet caught in the gravitational pull of a brilliant star. The exhaustion, the pressure, the long hours – they all seemed more manageable with Orm by her side.

As another long day drew to a close, Ling caught her reflection in a dressing room mirror. She noticed a change in herself – a softness in her eyes, a readiness in her smile that hadn't been there before. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but it was there. And Ling knew, with a certainty that both thrilled and terrified her, that Orm was the cause.

As the days blurred together in a whirlwind of activity, Ling found herself increasingly aware of a subtle shift in her dynamic with Orm. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing nuances in their interactions that she had previously overlooked or dismissed.

One afternoon, during a break between scenes, Orm sauntered over to Ling's chair, a mischievous glint in her eye. "P'Ling," she purred, leaning in close, "you look absolutely beautiful today. I can hardly keep my eyes off you during our scenes."

In the past, such a comment would have sent Ling into a flustered panic, her cheeks burning as she fumbled for a response. But this time, she felt a surge of confidence. Meeting Orm's gaze steadily, Ling quirked an eyebrow and replied, "Oh? And here I thought you were just admiring my acting skills."

Orm's eyes widened in surprise before her face split into a delighted grin. "Well, well, well," she chuckled, "looks like someone's been taking flirting lessons."

Ling surprised herself by winking at Orm before turning back to her script, her heart racing but a small smile playing on her lips. She could feel Orm's gaze lingering on her, a mixture of surprise and intrigue in her expression.

As the days passed, Ling found herself not only accepting Orm's playful advances but occasionally reciprocating them. During a photoshoot for a watch campaign, Orm was struggling to fasten the delicate timepiece around her wrist. Without hesitation, Ling stepped closer, gently taking Orm's hand in hers.

"Allow me," Ling murmured, her fingers brushing against the soft skin of Orm's wrist as she secured the clasp. She looked up to find Orm watching her intently, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.