Twilight of Shadows | LingOrm (GxG)

FIVE

As the final guests had exited the lavish event, the venue's grandeur began to diminish into a quiet, echoing emptiness. Earn stood by the entrance, her anticipation growing as she waited for her manager, who has yet to arrive. The evening's indulgence had left her feeling light-headed and slightly unsteady, her cheeks flushed with the combination of excitement and alcohol. The soft lights of the venue cast a warm glow over her, making her feel as if she were caught in a dream.

Fahlada's approach startled Earn from her reverie. Her smile was genuine as she stopped in front of Earn.

"Khun Earn," Fahlada's voice was smooth and inviting. "You're still here waiting? It's 11.40pm now. Seems like your manager is running late. Would you like a ride home?"

Earn blinked, her mind racing to process the unexpected offer. Is this real? Fahlada herself is offering me a ride? This feels like a dream. The alcohol had made her senses more acute, and the kindness from someone like Fahlada was both overwhelming and thrilling.

"Really? You don't have to do that," Earn managed to say, her voice slightly slurred. "It's very kind of you but I don't want to be a bother."

"It's no bother at all," Fahlada replied with a reassuring smile. "It's getting late, and it wouldn't be safe for you to wait alone. Besides, it's a pleasure."

Earn nodded, her heart fluttering at the thought of being alone with Fahlada. She followed the CEO to her sleek, luxurious Rolls-Royce, feeling a mix of awe and nervous excitement. The car's exterior gleamed under the streetlights, a testament to its opulence.

As they slid into the plush interior, the soft strains of classical instrumental music began to play. Earn sank into the leather seat, her head feeling heavier with each passing moment.

Fahlada glanced over at Earn, who was already visibly relaxed. She noted the subtle flush of her cheeks and the way her eyelids fluttered as she fought to stay awake.

"Just let me know where you live, Khun Earn." Fahlada said, her voice gentle yet firm, breaking the silence.

Earn, struggling to stay alert, fumbled for her phone. Her fingers were slightly clumsy as she tried to input her address but the alcohol made it difficult to focus. "It's... um, Sathorn Soi 9."

Fahlada nodded, her fingers deftly entering the address into the navigation system. As the journey continued, Earn's head grew heavier, her eyelids drooping.

Fahlada's gaze occasionally shifted towards Earn, noting her flushed cheeks and the way her eyes seemed to droop. She couldn't help but find Earn's tipsy demeanor endearing. There was something undeniably cute about the way Earn's usual grace gave way to an innocent, unguarded charm, making Fahlada's heart soften just a little more.

As the Rolls-Royce glided to a smooth stop in front of Earn's apartment, Fahlada glanced over at Earn, who was still half-leaning against the plush seat, her eyes half-closed, the effects of the alcohol making her seem even more delicate and vulnerable.

"Khun Earn," Fahlada said softly, her voice a gentle murmur intended to rouse the actress. "We're here."

Earn stirred slowly, blinking her eyes open with a sleepy, unfocused gaze. She turned her head to look at Fahlada, a tender smile spreading across her lips.

"Thank you so much, Khun Lada," Earn said, her voice thick with a mixture of gratitude and the lingering effects of the alcohol. "You really didn't have to..."

"It is my pleasure," Fahlada replied, her tone soft and reassuring. She reached over to help Earn, her hand brushing against the actress's arm as she assisted her out of the car.