Bitter Rivalry, Sweeter Love

Chapter 8: Breaking Point

The days turned into a blur of family events, business meetings, and obligatory social gatherings. Ling felt the weight of her family's expectations pressing down on her more than ever, especially with the upcoming tech fair looming on the horizon. Despite her outward confidence, a flicker of doubt had taken root in her mind. Could she really navigate her feelings for Orm amidst the chaos of their families' feud?

Orm, on the other hand, struggled to ignore the feelings that bubbled to the surface each time she saw Ling. The memory of their near-kiss lingered in her mind like a sweet poison, intoxicating and dangerous. With every encounter, her resolve weakened, pulling her deeper into a web of desire and confusion.

The night of the tech fair arrived, and the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and rivalry. Ling wore a sleek black suit, her hair pulled back into a tight bun that emphasized her striking features. As she made her way through the throng of guests, she caught sight of Orm in a striking blue ensemble that perfectly complemented her radiant complexion. The sight of Orm, radiant and confident, sent a jolt through Ling, igniting the simmering tension that had been building between them.

"Wow, Orm, you look amazing!" Ling exclaimed as she approached her, her voice genuine but laced with playful flirtation.

Orm's cheeks flushed at the compliment, her heart racing as she forced a smile. "Thanks, Ling. You're not looking too shabby yourself."

They stood inches apart, the energy between them palpable, but the reality of their families loomed like a dark cloud. Ling glanced over her shoulder, ensuring Oom wasn't nearby before leaning in closer, lowering her voice. "So, how are we going to navigate this tonight?"

Orm swallowed hard, her pulse quickening at the closeness. "We'll have to pretend, I guess. Keep our distance... for appearances' sake."

Ling's lips curved into a smirk, mischief dancing in her eyes. "But what if I don't want to pretend?"

Orm's breath hitched, her heart racing as she held Ling's gaze. "Then what do you want?"

Before Ling could respond, Oom appeared at their side, oblivious to the charged atmosphere. "Hey, there you two are! Ready to mingle?" she asked cheerfully, her arm casually draped around Ling's shoulders.

Ling quickly masked her disappointment, plastering a bright smile on her face. "Of course! Let's make this a night to remember."

As they mingled with the crowd, Ling found herself leaning into Oom's side more than she intended, enjoying the attention it drew from Orm. The jealousy simmered just beneath the surface, each laugh Oom shared with Ling feeling like a dagger to Orm's heart.

The night progressed with speeches, product showcases, and endless networking. Ling moved seamlessly between guests, engaging with potential clients while keeping a keen eye on Orm. She relished in the tension she created, particularly when she and Oom danced, their bodies moving in sync as if they were the only two people in the room. Orm watched, her stomach churning with envy, feeling the heat of Ling's flirtation radiating in waves.

"You're quite the dancer," Oom complimented, her eyes sparkling as they twirled.

Ling smirked, her gaze darting toward Orm. "I've had good teachers."

Orm clenched her jaw, a flash of irritation surging within her. It was obvious Ling was deliberately pushing her buttons, enjoying every moment of Orm's jealousy. The realization only deepened the knot of frustration in Orm's chest.

When the song ended, Ling stepped away from Oom, her smile radiant as she caught Orm's eye. "What do you think? Should we compete for the best dancer award tonight?"

Orm's heart raced at the challenge hidden in Ling's tone. "You really think you can outdance me?" she replied, her voice steady despite the storm of emotions brewing inside.

"Is that a challenge I hear?" Ling teased, stepping closer, their faces inches apart.

Just then, the lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the crowd as the night's main event began. A live band took the stage, and Ling grabbed Oom's hand, pulling her closer for another dance. Orm felt like a spectator in her own life, the sight of Ling and Oom swaying together igniting a fire of jealousy that burned fiercely within her.

As the night progressed, Ling found herself increasingly aware of Orm's gaze, the way it followed her every move. The exhilaration of the attention Oom showered upon her began to feel hollow. A part of her yearned to break free from the charade and confront the feelings she had been suppressing.

Ling decided to push the envelope further. During a slow song, she leaned closer to Oom, her lips brushing against her ear as she whispered something playful. Orm's heart raced, and before she could think, she strode across the dance floor, her patience wearing thin.

"Can I cut in?" Orm demanded, her tone sharper than intended.

Ling's eyes widened in surprise, but a smirk quickly replaced her initial shock. "Why, of course, Orm. Oom, do you mind?"

Oom raised an eyebrow but stepped back, a knowing smile on her lips. "Sure, but be careful not to steal my date too quickly!"

Orm took Ling's hand, pulling her into a slow dance, their bodies moving closer together. The intimacy of the moment was electric, their gazes locked, as if the world around them had faded away.

"Why are you doing this?" Orm asked, her voice barely above a whisper, but the urgency was palpable.

"What do you mean?" Ling replied, her breath hitching as their bodies swayed to the music.

"You're flaunting Oom in front of me on purpose," Orm accused, frustration leaking into her tone.

Ling leaned closer, her lips brushing against Orm's ear as she replied, "Maybe I want to see how far I can push you."

Orm's heart raced, torn between annoyance and exhilaration. "You're playing a dangerous game, Ling."

"Am I?" Ling countered, pulling back slightly to gauge Orm's expression. "Or are you just scared to admit how you really feel?"

Before Orm could respond, Ling closed the distance, her lips brushing against Orm's, igniting a spark that made Orm's heart race. The kiss was electric, a mix of desperation and longing that stole their breath away. But just as quickly, Ling pulled back, leaving Orm reeling.

A loud cheer erupted from the crowd, breaking the moment. Orm's heart raced, confusion and desire swirling inside her. Ling looked at her, a mixture of defiance and vulnerability in her gaze.

"What was that for?" Orm managed to ask, her voice hoarse.

"Just a taste of what you're missing," Ling replied, her smile teasing. "But you need to decide what you want, Orm. I won't wait forever."

As Ling stepped back, Oom returned to them, a curious expression on her face. "What did I miss?"

Orm's heart sank as she quickly composed herself, the brief moment of clarity slipping away. The weight of their family rivalry pressed down on her shoulders, and she felt trapped in a game that only seemed to grow more complicated with each passing second.