Live With Your Blood || LingOrm

Chapter 19: Suspicion Unraveled

Orm returned home a little late, the sunset casting an orange glow through the windows as she entered the house. Her body ached from the intense cardiovascular fitness session with Coach Saint. These workouts were crucial for improving her breathing control, a vital aspect for any sharpshooter aiming for precision. By mastering her breath, she hoped to reduce the slight movements that could affect her aim, especially over long distances.

Two weeks before the Olympics but lately, Orm has noticed challenges in managing her heart rate during trainings. She believed enhancing her cardiovascular health would help lower her heart rate, thereby minimizing barrel movement caused by pulse or respiration—factors that significantly impact shooting accuracy. Every breath felt heavy, but she knew this fitness was crucial for her performance. Today's session felt like a small victory in regaining her shooting control.

Upon entering her home, Orm was welcomed by the sight of Franky enjoying evening tea with her parents in the living room, the television playing softly in the background. The scene was familiar, Franky having been like family for as long as she could remember.

Orm sat down next to her mother. They chatted for a bit, discussing her day and training until Mrs. Koy's eyes drifted to Orm's bare neck.

"Where's the silver necklace your father gave you? It has been a while since I saw you wearing it," Mrs. Koy asked, a note of concern in her voice.

Orm glanced down, having forgotten about the missing necklace. "Oh, it broke," she said with a sigh. "The chain got caught on my handbag, and I guess I pulled it too hard. It just snapped apart."

Her father, Mr. Job, raised an eyebrow, his face turning serious. "You need to be more careful with that necklace, Orm. It's important for your safety."

Orm blinked, taken aback by the intensity of his words. She had heard that same line ever since she was a child, but she had never fully understood what kind of 'safety' her parents were referring to. Every time she asked, the answer was always vague: "You'll know later."

She wanted to press for an explanation now, the curiosity burning in her mind. But something stopped her—the worry that the answer might shake her focus, might mess with her Olympic preparations. She didn't want any distractions, so she chose to remain silent.

Mrs. Koy removed the bracelet she was wearing and placed it gently on Orm's hand. "Wear this for now, everywhere you go. I'll get your necklace repaired soon."

Orm nodded, silently slipping the bracelet onto her wrist. The silver felt cold against her skin, but it warmed quickly as if it was meant to be there.

Franky, who had been listening quietly to the conversation, stood up, gathering the empty cups and plates from the table. He carried them into the kitchen, his familiar presence making it clear that the house was as much his as it was Orm's.

Orm excused herself and followed him into the kitchen, wanting to help tidy up. As she began to wash the dishes, Franky broke the silence, his voice low and serious.

"I know what I'm about to say will sound strange... but Dr. Ling."

"Ling?" Orm's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Ling's name. She tried to keep her tone neutral. "What about her?"

"Don't you think there's something... weird about her?" Franky hesitated for a moment, still drying a plate.

"Weird? How so?" Orm asked, her hands still busy under the running water, though she was more focused on Franky's words now.

"I mean, I've seen things," Franky continued, his voice dropping even lower. "Like, the other day. When we were outside Prigkhing Classic Kitchen... didn't you see her? She ran—no, she sprinted—like no one I've ever seen before. It wasn't... normal. I don't know how to explain it, but it's like she's not... human."