The Deadly Charm

Part 28 : Broken Love

The Lingering Question

On a weekday evening after work, Akira walked out of the office, her luggage in hand. Her face showed signs of exhaustion from the long day, but a slight smile played on her lips as she welcomed the transition from the chaos of the office to the calm of the evening.

The soft, setting sunlight glowed below the horizon, casting a golden hue through the tall city buildings. The warm light reflected off the windows, making the crowded streets seem more peaceful. Akira walked along the sidewalk, where people passed by each other, while cars moved slowly, and the gentle sound of birds chirping added to the relaxing atmosphere after a busy day.

She made her way to a small café not far from her office. Opening the door, she was greeted by the inviting aroma of coffee in the air. This café was her favorite place to unwind and recharge after a long day of work.

"Hello, customer. The usual today?" the barista asked with a friendly smile.

"Yes, the usual. Thank you," Akira replied, smiling back.

She chose her favorite spot in the corner of the café, where a small wooden table and a soft chair created a warm and cozy atmosphere. Akira took out the book she always carried and began reading while waiting for her drink.

A few minutes later, the barista brought her hot latte. Akira smiled and thanked her, taking a sip and savoring the warmth and rich aroma of the coffee, which seemed to melt away her fatigue.

"This is the best time of the day," Akira thought to herself, enjoying her book and slowly sipping her coffee.

However, amidst the peace and relaxation, the door to the café opened again, and someone walked in. Akira felt a gaze on her. She looked up from her book and saw Kongkiat standing in front of her.

"Hello, Akira," Kongkiat greeted her, his tone filled with concern.

"Hello," Akira replied, raising her eyebrows in surprise at seeing him.

"I... I want to talk to you," Kongkiat said, sitting down in the chair opposite Akira.

"What's the matter?" Akira put her book down and looked at him curiously.

Kongkiat took a deep breath before speaking. "Lately, I feel like something has been following me. It makes me uncomfortable and anxious."

"So, what's happening?" Akira asked.

"It feels like someone is always watching me. I get chills, and sometimes I hear whispers," Kongkiat explained, his face serious.

Akira glanced at him before shifting her gaze to a figure standing beside him. "It's not strange. She... follows you everywhere."

"What did you say?" Kongkiat asked, visibly shocked. Akira's expression remained calm and indifferent.

"Are you saying the spirit following me is a woman? What does she look like? Can you describe her?" Kongkiat asked, now anxious.

"It's a woman... she has long, flowing black hair. She looks to be around thirty, wearing a white dress, and her face is filled with sadness. She seems familiar to you," Akira said in a calm tone.

"That's... Nuanphan, my wife. But she's not dead. She's just... unwell," Kongkiat stammered, his eyes widening.

"Huh? Miss Nuanphan is still alive?" Akira asked, surprised.

"Yes, Nuanphan is alive, but she has a mental illness and was sent to a psychiatric hospital for treatment. So why... would you see her spirit?" Kongkiat was confused, staring at the coffee cup in front of him.