Résonance: a LingOrm's Story

Chapter 9: Good Companion

It had been a week since Ling and Ying visited Orm at her dorm. Orm was feeling much better now, back to her usual lively self, though she was taking it slow. Her friends had been nothing but supportive, and Ling had gone out of her way to ensure Orm's health was prioritized. Ling's frequent texts, check-ins, and offers to help had become a comforting part of Orm's routine.

Today, Ling had offered to pick Orm up from her dorm and accompany her to a quiet café where she could work on her paper. Orm, still recovering from the events of last week, had gratefully accepted. She felt a bit embarrassed about how much Ling had been taking care of her, but at the same time, she was touched by her constant concern.

As Ling's car pulled up outside the dorm, Orm waved from the entrance. She jogged down the steps, her backpack slung over one shoulder, a smile spreading across her face as she approached the car.

"P'Ling, you really didn't have to pick me up," Orm said as she slid into the passenger seat, her tone light but appreciative.

Ling glanced over at her with a small smile. "I wanted to. I know you're feeling better, but it gives me peace of mind to make sure you're okay."

Orm's heart warmed at Ling's words. She could see the genuine care in Ling's eyes, though there was something else there too—something that hinted at a lingering sense of worry. Ling had been a little more protective since Orm's health scare, and while it made Orm feel slightly guilty, she couldn't deny how safe and cared for she felt in Ling's presence.

"I'm okay now, really," Orm assured her, reaching over to give Ling's arm a light squeeze. "But I really appreciate you driving me everywhere. You've been amazing."

Ling kept her eyes on the road as they pulled away from the dorm, but Orm noticed the slight tension in her hands as they gripped the steering wheel. "I just don't want to take any chances," Ling said quietly. "After what happened, I..." She trailed off, but the meaning was clear.

Orm nodded, understanding. "I get it. But you don't have to worry so much. I promise I'll take care of myself."

Ling smiled softly, though the concern in her eyes didn't entirely fade. "I know. But let me do this, okay? It makes me feel better."

They drove in comfortable silence for a while, the city streets giving way to quieter neighborhoods as they neared the café. It was a small, cozy spot that Ling had picked out—a peaceful place where Orm could focus on her work without too many distractions. The café's large windows let in plenty of natural light, and the soft hum of conversation and clinking cups created the perfect ambiance for study.

When they arrived, Ling parked the car and helped Orm gather her things. Inside, they found a table near the window, and Orm set up her laptop, ready to dive into her paper. Ling, always thoughtful, ordered them both drinks—Orm's favorite iced coffee and a calming tea for herself.

As Orm worked, Ling sat quietly beside her, reading a book she had brought along. Every now and then, Ling would glance at Orm, a small smile playing on her lips as she watched her focus intently on her screen. Orm, in turn, felt a sense of comfort just having Ling there. It was a quiet companionship that she had come to value more than she expected.

About an hour into their session, the café's door swung open, and Ying stepped inside, her presence immediately noticeable despite her casual attire. She had just finished a photoshoot nearby and had agreed to join them for a little while.

"There she is," Ying called out with a grin as she approached their table. "Mind if I crash this little study party?"

Orm looked up, smiling widely. "P'Ying! Of course, join us! How was the shoot?"

Ying plopped down beside Ling, stretching her arms with a satisfied sigh. "It was good, long, but good. You know how it is. I'm glad to be done for the day, though. I needed a break, and what better way than to spend it with you two?"

Ling, who had been quietly sipping her tea, looked over at Ying with a welcoming smile. "Glad you could make it. Orm's been working hard on her paper, so we've been keeping it pretty quiet."

Ying chuckled, glancing at Orm's laptop. "Hard at work, huh? You sure you're not slacking off?"

Orm laughed, shaking her head. "No slacking here, P'Ying. I've got a deadline, and this paper isn't going to write itself."

"Well, if anyone can handle it, it's you," Ying said with a wink. "But seriously, how are you feeling? You seem a lot better."

"I am," Orm replied, her smile softening. "Thanks to P'Ling, mostly. She's been driving me around and making sure I don't overdo it. I don't know what I'd do without her."

Ying glanced between Orm and Ling, her expression turning thoughtful. "You've got good people looking out for you, Orm. That's something to be grateful for."

Orm's heart swelled with gratitude as she looked at the two women who had been there for her during such a tough time. "I really am. I'm lucky to have both of you."

Ling, always modest, waved her hand dismissively. "It's nothing, really. I'm just glad you're okay."

Ying leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms with a playful grin. "Nothing, she says. You've been doting on Orm like a protective older sister. It's kind of cute, actually."

Ling blushed slightly but smiled. "I just want to make sure she's alright."

Orm chuckled, feeling a warmth settle over her. "Well, you've both been amazing. I don't know how I'll ever repay you."

Ying raised an eyebrow, her smile turning mischievous. "Well, I could use a free coffee at your café one of these days. That's a start."

Orm laughed, shaking her head. "Deal. Anytime, P'Ying."

The three of them spent the next hour chatting casually, the conversation flowing easily between them. They talked about Ying's latest photoshoot, Orm's upcoming assignments, and Ling's work at the travel agency. The dynamic between them was light and relaxed, with Ying's playful energy balancing out Ling's calm presence and Orm's gratitude-filled warmth.

As the afternoon wore on, Orm leaned back in her chair, taking a deep breath and looking at Ling and Ying with a contented smile. "I really appreciate you both. You've been there for me in ways I didn't expect."

Ling reached over, giving Orm's hand a gentle squeeze. "We're just happy to see you doing better."

Ying nodded in agreement. "Exactly. And hey, anytime you need us, we're just a call away."

Orm's heart swelled with gratitude once again, feeling incredibly lucky to have found such good friends in both Ling and Ying. It wasn't just about the help they'd given her—it was about the sense of connection she felt with them, the bond that had grown stronger through shared experiences and quiet support.

As they finished up their drinks and packed up to leave, Orm felt a sense of peace she hadn't felt in a long time. Whatever challenges lay ahead, she knew she wouldn't face them alone. Ling and Ying were there for her, and for that, she was endlessly grateful.