Secretly Watching Over Her

Chapter 7: When Past Meets Present

Orm and Ling had just wrapped up a grueling morning on set, their scenes for The Secrets of the Executive Suite taking a more emotional toll than usual. They decided to treat themselves to a lunch break, hoping to relax and enjoy each other's company before the afternoon shoots began. The café they chose was a quaint spot near the studio, known for its quiet ambiance and delicious Thai cuisine. They found a small table by the window, where the sun streamed in, casting a warm glow over their faces. As they settled in, Orm's laughter filled the space, a sound that always made Ling's heart flutter. Ling couldn't help but smile, feeling content in this shared moment.

As they waited for their food, Ling reached across the table, her fingers lightly brushing against Orm's. They were growing closer, their bond deepening with each passing day. Ling had even started to let go of her jealousy over Ying, knowing Orm's feelings were true. But just as Ling was about to say something, a shadow fell over their table.

"Orm? Is that really you?"

Ling turned to see a woman standing beside their table, her eyes sparkling with recognition. She was tall, with long, dark hair and an easy smile that hinted at shared memories. Orm's face lit up with surprise. "Mina! Oh my gosh, it's been years!" Orm exclaimed, standing up to give her a hug.

Mina, Orm's high school lover. Ling had heard about her in passing but had never seen a picture. Now, here she was, in the flesh, and from the way Orm hugged her back, it was clear their connection was once more than just friendship.

"I can't believe we're running into each other like this," Mina said, her hand still resting on Orm's arm. "You look amazing, Orm. Just like you did back in school."

Orm laughed, her eyes bright with nostalgia. "You haven't changed either, Mina. What are you doing here?"

"I'm back in town for work," Mina explained, glancing at Ling and then back at Orm. "It's been so long. We should catch up. How about lunch?"

Without waiting for Orm's response, Mina slid into the seat next to her. Ling's heart sank as she watched the two of them engage in animated conversation. Mina's hand occasionally brushed against Orm's arm, and Orm didn't pull away. It was like Ling had become invisible, their earlier connection faded into the background. She watched as Orm laughed at one of Mina's jokes, her smile wide and genuine. The jealousy that Ling thought she had overcome started to gnaw at her again.

The conversation flowed effortlessly between Orm and Mina, reminiscing about high school pranks and old friends. Every shared laugh felt like a dagger to Ling's heart. She could see the ease between them, the familiarity that spoke of years of history and connection. Ling felt like an outsider, watching from the sidelines as Orm's past pulled her in.

Ling cleared her throat, trying to mask her discomfort. "I'm going to step outside for a moment," she said, standing up.

Orm glanced at her briefly, distracted. "Oh, okay. We'll be here."

Ling's chest tightened. She had hoped Orm would offer to join her, or at least look concerned, but Orm was too engrossed in Mina's company. Ling forced a smile and nodded, making her way out of the café. Once outside, she took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm brewing inside her. She had thought their relationship was growing stronger, but seeing Orm with Mina had opened old wounds of doubt and insecurity.

For the next few days, Ling threw herself into her role as the new CEO of the hospital, determined to drown out the turmoil that churned inside her. Work was her only escape. Each morning, she arrived at the hospital before dawn, her mind already ticking off the tasks for the day. Her first stop was the boardroom, where meetings with department heads became a daily ritual. She listened intently as they discussed budgets, staffing issues, and patient care protocols, her face a mask of calm efficiency. Ling's reputation as a capable leader spread quickly, her ability to make quick, decisive calls earning her respect among the hospital staff.