Unbreakable Duty

Shadows in the Dark

After all the fittings and final adjustments were made to the gowns Earn and Fahlada would wear during the show, the atmosphere in the venue began to settle. The team, though tired, was buzzing with excitement as everything slowly came together. The bridal collection launch was just a day away, and both Earn and Fahlada were set to be the showstoppers.

Earn stood near the runway, checking the lighting and last-minute details with Engfa and Susie. Fahalada, dressed in her rehearsal gown, moved to stand beside her, adjusting the fabric around her waist as Bow threw in some remarks, her usual playful tone keeping the mood light.

But hidden among the shadows of the grand hall, a man observed the scene with unsettling intensity. He kept to the darkest corners, blending in with the workers as he silently watched every move Earn made. His eyes were sharp, calculating, as he memorized the faces always around her - Engfah, Susie, Bow, Rossami - and, of course, Fahlada.

He focused particularly on Fahlada, noting how closely she stayed near Earn, her role as protector almost palpable despite the glitz and glamor of the fashion world. The man's lip curled slightly in displeasure, realizing how tight Earn's security was becoming. He knew Fahlada wasn't just any model standing by Earn's side - she was a trained soldier, someone who could potentially complicate things. If only his teammates killed Fahlada in the penthouse, she would not be here causing trouble to him.

The man lingered a moment longer, watching as Earn and Fahlada exchanged quiet words, their connection undeniable. He knew that Wisanu would not take kindly to any interference in the plan. His orders were clear - Earn was to be taken the night of the launch, in front of an unsuspecting crowd.

A slow deliberate grin spread across the man's face. He relished the thought of how smoothly it would all unfold. Despite the protection around her, Earn was still vulnerable. He could see the cracks in their defense-distracted moments, overconfidence, and the certainty that no one would strike at such a high-profile event.

As the lights dimmed in the venue, signaling the end of rehearsal, the man slipped back into the shadows, disappearing as quietly as he had arrived. He had gathered all the information he needed. Now, it was only a matter of time.

Wisanu would be pleased.

=======================

As the final rehearsal wrapped up and the team began winding down for the day, the heavy doors to the venue creaked open. Earn glanced over her shoulder and felt a wave of surprise wash over her. Her parents - General Phongphipat, her mother Koy, and her brother 2nd Lieutenant Phongphipat - stepped into the grand hall, their presence immediately commanding attention.

General Phongphipat, as always, walked with a firm, composed demeanor. His military background was evident in every step, and even though he was here as a supportive father, his sharp eyes scanned the room, assessing everything, as if on high alert. Koy followed closely behind him, her expression warm but curious as she took in the glamorous setting. Behind them, Earn's younger brother dressed more casually, waved playfully in her direction.

 "Look who's here," Engfah murmured from beside Earn, nudging her with a grin. "The Phongphipat squad has arrived."

Earn smiled at the sight of her family. It wasn't often that they made complete appearances like this. Not with her father who was always tied up with his military responsibilities. As they approached, she could see the pride in her mother's eyes and the usual seriousness in her father's.

"Mom, Dad, you came!" Earn greeted them, stepping forward.

"We wouldn't miss your big day, sweetheart," Koy said, wrapping her daughter in a warm hug. "Everything looks stunning. We are so proud of you."