Résonance: a LingOrm's Story

Chapter 33: The Brunch

It was a bright Sunday morning in Bangkok, and though Ling's birthday party had been celebrated the night before, the festivities weren't over yet. Ling's parents had planned a special outing—a relaxing brunch at an exclusive resort in the city. The resort was known for its tranquil atmosphere and the perfect blend of modern luxury with a touch of nature. It was the ideal place to continue Ling's celebration, and for once, Ling allowed herself to just enjoy the moment instead of thinking about work or other responsibilities.

The group was split into two cars for the drive. Ling's parents opted for a private vehicle, while the rest of them—Ling, Orm, Ying, and Pring—piled into Ying's car. Pring was practically bouncing in her seat the whole way, gushing over the fact that she was spending time with Ying, the renowned model and Ling's close friend.

"I mean, can you believe this? I'm hanging out with the Ying!" Pring exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement as she turned to Orm.

Orm grinned, watching Pring in amusement. She'd seen this side of Pring countless times, but it was always fun to witness her infectious energy.

Ying, ever composed, glanced at Pring from the driver's seat and gave a small smile. "I'm just a regular person, you know," she said, her voice calm but amused.

"Regular person?" Pring gasped dramatically. "You're anything but regular! I saw your billboard on the way here!"

Ling, sitting quietly in the passenger seat, smirked at the interaction. Pring's exuberance was charming, but it was clear that Ying had a way of grounding her without dampening her spirits.

As they approached the resort, Orm's excitement grew too. The place was beautiful, tucked away in a secluded corner of the city, with lush greenery surrounding a serene pool. The restaurant itself was on the terrace, overlooking the water, and the group was seated in a private section, ensuring an intimate and relaxed experience.

Orm had barely settled into her chair when Ling's mother started chatting with her, asking questions in her usual warm and engaging manner.

"So, Orm, how has work been lately?" Ling's mother asked, smiling kindly at Orm as she poured herself some tea.

Orm straightened in her seat, still feeling a bit awkward around Ling's father, who sat on the other side of the table, quiet and reserved. "It's been good, Ma'am. I'm still learning a lot at the company, but I feel like I'm getting the hang of it," Orm said politely.

Ling's mother gave a soft chuckle. "You've accomplished so much already. I'm sure Ling is proud of you." Her voice had a warmth that eased Orm's nerves, but she still couldn't help sneaking a glance at Ling's father, who remained focused on his plate.

Beside her, Pring joined in the conversation with her usual energy, sharing a funny anecdote about her new job. Orm was grateful for Pring's presence, as her friend helped keep the atmosphere light and lively.

Meanwhile, Ling and Ying, ever the picture of composure, listened quietly, occasionally chiming in but mostly letting Orm and Pring carry the conversation. It was clear that the two friends preferred observing the chaos rather than joining in it.

After the delicious meal, Orm, Pring, and Ying decided to go for a swim, leaving Ling to spend some quiet time with her parents. The water shimmered in the sunlight, and the three women soon found themselves splashing and laughing, carefree in the cool pool. Pring, with her boundless energy, initiated a playful water fight, and Orm joined in eagerly. Ying, always the calm one, allowed herself to be pulled into their antics, though she kept her movements graceful and poised.

While Orm and the others played in the water, Ling remained with her parents, seated on a shaded lounge chair by the pool. She opened a book, but her eyes kept drifting over to Orm, watching her laugh and splash in the water with a soft, fond expression. She didn't realize how obvious her gaze was until her father broke the silence.