Exquisite Mission-Lingorm

Chapter 9

Lingling found herself stealing glances at Orm. The younger woman's slender figure, fair skin, and delicate features drew Lingling's attention every time they interacted. There was something about Orm that made Lingling's heart beat just a little bit faster. Perhaps it was the way Orm carried herself with a subtle yet unmistakable confidence, or maybe it was the way her eyes lit up when she spoke passionately about something.

Lingling let out a soft sigh and mentally facepalmed herself as she caught herself stealing yet another glance at Orm. The realization of her own behavior made her cheeks flush a bit. She chastised herself silently for getting distracted by the younger woman's charms. Lingling was not the type to lose her focus, especially not on something as unexpected as the beginnings of a potential crush. She took a deep breath and decided to force her thoughts back to the task at hand.

It was time to prepare for the journey ahead. She rose from her chair and moved towards her belongings, opening her duffel bag. She pulled out a leather holster, revealing a sleek black pistol. She handled the weapon with practiced ease, her fingers carefully checking the magazine and ammo. Satisfied, she attached the holster to her belt, the weapon now secured at her side.

Once the pistol was securely attached to her belt, Lingling turned her attention to the MK III combat knife. She unwrapped a sheath, revealing the blade. Gingerly, she ran her fingers over the steel, testing its sharpness with a subtle brush of her thumb against the edge. Satisfied with the knife's condition, she replaced it in its sheath and tucked it into her boot.

With both the pistol and the knife accounted for, Lingling turned to a small compartment in her bag. She reached inside, carefully pulling out two bulletproof vests.

Lingling held up one of the bulletproof vests, inspecting it closely before turning her gaze to Orm.

Seeing Orm's questioning eyes, Lingling offered a small smile, her voice gentle as she explained. "Bulletproof vests," she said calmly. "It's better to be prepared for any situation, especially since we're heading into an area with potential danger."

With both bulletproof vests in hand, Lingling offered one to Orm, her gaze steady and reassuring. "Put this on," she instructed kindly.

Orm accepted the bulletproof vest from Lingling, her fingers tracing the woven fabric. The reality of their situation was starting to sink in, and a wave of unease washed over her. But she pushed aside her nerves and began to put on the vest, following Lingling's guidance.

As she pulled the vest over her head and adjusted the straps, Linglign stepped closer, her hands moving to adjust the vest for a more snug and secure fit.

With Orm's vest secured, Lingling took a step back, appraising the younger girl's appearance. She nodded approvingly, her eyes tracing the contours of the vest, ensuring it was properly fitted.

"That should do," Lingling said, her voice firm yet reassuring. "The vest should provide protection against most small-caliber bullets. Just remember, it won't make you invincible, so stay vigilant."

Seeing Orm standing there with the bulletproof vest, a thought occurred to Lingling. She leaned against the nearby wall, her arms crossed over her chest, and looked at Orm intently.

"Orm," she began, her voice steady but curious, "Do you have any experience with firearms or self-defense?"

Orm's gaze met Lingling's, her expression a mixture of slight surprise and hesitation. After a brief pause, she shook her head.

"I... I don't have any experience with firearms," she admitted sheepishly. "My knowledge is mostly limited to martial arts, but when it comes to handling a gun, I'm quite clueless."