Unbreakable Duty

Flowers and Textiles

In the days following the kiss, Earn found herself visiting Fahlada less frequently. She told herself it was because of work, and it wasn't entirely a lie. Her upcoming bridal collection launch was fast approaching, and there were a million details to finalize. Fabrics to choose from, accessories to design, and models to coordinate required her full attention. But deep down, Earn knew there was more to it than just being busy.

The kiss had shaken her, leaving her with feelings she wasn't ready to confront. So, she buried herself in work, hoping that the whirlwind of her career would drown out the confusion that gnawed her.

Today, she was at Chinaworld, her go-to destination for all things fabric. The sprawling market was a maze of stalls and shops, each one filled to the brim with every kind of textile imaginable. But Earn had her favorites, and one in particular she visited often - an old shop run by an auntie who had known her for years.

As Earn entered the shop, the familiar scent of freshly dyed fabrics greeted her. The shop was a riot of colors. Bolts of silk, chifon, and lace stacked high on every available surface. The auntie, a petite woman with silver-streaked hair and a warm smile, looked up from her work and beamed when she saw Earn.

"Ah, Khun Earn! You're back!" Auntie greeted her, wiping her hands on her apron as she came over to give Earn a quick hug. "I was wondering when I'd see you again. I only see Susie coming here. Sometimes she's with Engfa."

Earn returned the hug, grateful for the warmth and familiarity. "I've been busy, Auntie. The collection launch is coming up soon, so I'm here to make sure everything is perfect."

Auntie nodded, her eyes twinkling with pride. "I'm sure it will be beautiful, as always." She paused, her expression turning more serious. "But how are you, really? I saw the news. What happened at your penthouse... It was terrible. Are you alright?"

Earn hesitated, her mind flashing back to the events of that night. She forced a smile. "I'm okay, Auntie. It was... a close call, but I'm fine now. Just trying to move on and focus on my work."

Auntie studied her for a moment, her sharp eyes missing nothing. "And Fahlada? How is she?"

Earn blinked in surprise. "Fahlada?"

"Yes, that serious-looking woman of yours," Auntie said with a knowing smile. "I haven't seen her around lately, too. Is she alright?"

Earn's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Fahlada as her woman. "She's recovering," she said slowly. "She was injured during the attack, but she's doing better now."

Auntie nodded, relief washing over her face. "I'm glad to hear that. She's such a strong woman. Determined to always protect you. But remember Earn, even the strong ones need care sometimes." she gave Earn a pointed look. "You take care of her, okay? The two of you are perfect for each other."

They chatted for a while as Auntie helped her sort through different fabrics, discussing the intricate lace and delicate silks that Earn wanted for her new collection. But as the talked, Auntie's expression grew more thoughtful.

"So," Auntie said casually, "has Fahlada proposed yet?"

Earn nearly dropped the bolt of fabric she was holding. "Proposed?" she repeated, her voice rising in surprise. "No, of course not. Lada is just my bodyguard." But memories from her dream surfaced in her head. The beach. The kiss. The happiness that she felt. "But they are all dreams." Earn thought.

Auntie raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Just your bodyguard? Really? My dear, I've seen the way you two are looking at each other. My eyes are weak, yes. But I've seen that there's more between you two than just a professional relationship."