After the Fall

Chapter 3: The Game Begins

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the city, Ling found herself in the bustling heart of a local art gallery. The event was a showcase for emerging artists, and she had dragged Orm along, eager to spend more time with her while putting her plan into action. The gallery buzzed with chatter, laughter, and the occasional clink of glasses, but Ling's focus was entirely on the girl beside her.

"Look at this piece," Orm exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm as she pointed to a vibrant painting that captured the chaotic beauty of life. "It's like you can feel the artist's emotions through the brushstrokes."

Ling watched Orm with rapt attention, captivated not just by the art but by the way Orm's face lit up. "It's impressive," Ling replied, attempting to match Orm's excitement. "I never really understood art until now."

"Really?" Orm turned to Ling, her surprise evident. "I thought everyone had some appreciation for it."

"Not me," Ling admitted, shrugging with feigned nonchalance. "But I'm learning."

Orm smiled softly, and in that moment, Ling felt a rush of determination. This was her chance to deepen their connection. "So, tell me more about your favorite artists," Ling urged, leaning in closer to Orm.

As they wandered through the gallery, Orm enthusiastically shared her insights, and Ling played the part of the captivated student. But in the back of her mind, the bet loomed like a cloud, a reminder of the competitive spirit that had driven her to pursue Orm in the first place.

"Do you think you'll ever try to paint?" Orm asked, stopping to admire a large canvas that depicted a haunting landscape.

Ling chuckled, shaking her head. "Not a chance. I'd probably just end up with a mess on the canvas."

Orm laughed, the sound light and infectious. "You'd be surprised at what you can create if you just let go and try."

Ling felt a pang of something—was it regret? She brushed it aside, reminding herself that this was all part of the game. "I'll stick to charming people, thank you very much."

Their playful banter continued, and as the evening wore on, Ling couldn't help but notice the glances they were getting from their friends. Gap and Mew were nearby, whispering and nudging each other, clearly aware of the chemistry crackling in the air.

"Ling, you're really going for it, huh?" Mew teased, catching Ling's eye. "What's next? A dramatic confession of love?"

"Shut up," Ling shot back, but a smirk tugged at her lips. The idea was ludicrous yet oddly appealing.

Later that night, the group settled into a cozy café to wind down. The conversation flowed easily, but Ling felt the weight of her friends' scrutiny on her. She knew they were waiting for her to make her next move.

"You know, I heard Orm is a fantastic kisser," Gap said with a sly grin, breaking the tension. "You might want to take notes, Ling."

Orm's cheeks flushed bright red, and she quickly looked down at her drink, but Ling couldn't help but smirk. "Maybe I'll just find out for myself," she said, her competitive edge ignited.

"Ling!" Orm exclaimed, shock written all over her face. "You can't just say things like that!"

"Why not?" Ling replied, her heart racing at the thought. "You're fun, Orm. I'm just being honest."

The group erupted in laughter, teasing Orm further. Ling reveled in the attention, but beneath her bravado, she felt a tightening in her chest. It was one thing to pursue Orm as part of the bet, but it was another to risk crossing a line that could lead to real feelings—something she was determined to avoid.

As the night came to an end, Ling found herself walking Orm to her car, the air between them thick with unspoken tension. Orm fidgeted with her keys, stealing glances at Ling, who tried to keep her expression casual.

"Thanks for tonight," Orm said quietly, her voice almost a whisper. "I had a lot of fun."

"Me too," Ling replied, her heart thudding loudly in her chest. "Maybe we could do it again sometime?"

"Yeah, I'd like that," Orm smiled, her eyes sparkling. "But don't think you're off the hook just because we had a good time."

Ling laughed, relieved to see Orm's playful spirit return. "Trust me, I wouldn't dream of it. The game has just begun."

As Orm drove away, Ling couldn't shake the feeling that she was venturing into uncharted territory. The bet was still her primary focus, but with every interaction, she felt a growing connection to Orm that was both thrilling and terrifying.

Little did Ling know, the stakes were about to get even higher.