After the Fall

Chapter 20: A New Chapter

The sun shone brightly over the sprawling estate of Sirilak Kwong, casting a warm glow on the manicured lawns and elegant façade of her mansion. Ling stood at the entrance, adjusting her blouse and smoothing down her hair, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Today, she would be welcoming her friends into her new life—a life filled with success and family, but one that still bore the echoes of her past.

"Diana, are you ready?" Ling called out, her voice filled with anticipation.

Diana Flipo, her wife and a well-known model and actress, emerged from the hallway, her presence radiating grace and poise. "Just a minute! I want to make sure the girls are settled," she replied with a warm smile, the sunlight highlighting her striking features.

Ling couldn't help but admire her wife. Diana had been a rock for her, supporting her through everything—the heartbreaks, the struggles, and the victories. Together, they had built a beautiful family, one that included their one-year-old twin daughters, Ariya and Araya.

When the doorbell rang, Ling's heart raced with excitement. She opened the door to find her friends standing there, each with bright smiles on their faces, ready for the reunion they had been anticipating for months.

"Ling!" Ying exclaimed, pulling her into a tight hug. "It's so good to see you! We can't believe how long it's been."

"I know, right? It feels like forever!" Ling replied, her eyes sparkling with joy.

As her friends filed into the foyer, Ling took a moment to appreciate the changes in their lives. Orm walked in with Popor by her side, their hands intertwined. Though they were now married, a bittersweet pang echoed in Ling's chest. She had always cared deeply for Orm, and seeing her happy with Popor reminded her of the paths they had chosen.

"Wow, this place is incredible!" Prikhing said, looking around in awe. "You've really outdone yourself, Ling."

"Thank you! I wanted to create a warm and inviting space for all of us," Ling replied, leading them further into the house.

As they settled in the living room, the laughter and chatter flowed freely. Ling couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth wash over her as she watched her friends catch up, sharing stories and reminiscing about their university days.

"Okay, everyone, I have a special surprise for you!" Ling announced, her heart racing with excitement. "I want you all to meet my daughters."

"Daughters? You have daughters?" Yeena exclaimed, her eyes wide with surprise.

"Yes! They're one year old, and I can't wait for you to meet them!" Ling said, her voice brimming with pride.

With that, Ling gestured for Diana to bring out the twins. Diana appeared moments later, carrying Ariya and Araya, both girls giggling as they played with their toys.

"Everyone, this is Ariya," Diana said, holding up the first twin with a gentle smile. "And this is Araya."

The room fell silent for a moment as everyone absorbed the sight of the beautiful twins. Ariya had bright, curious eyes and soft, dark hair, while Araya resembled her sister, with a joyful smile that could light up the room.

"They are adorable!" Ying exclaimed, rushing over to coo at the babies. "I can't believe how big they've gotten!"

Ling's heart swelled with pride as her friends surrounded Diana and the girls, their faces lighting up with joy. She watched Orm closely as she held Ariya in her arms, an unspoken connection passing between them.

"Your daughters are so beautiful, Ling," Orm said, her voice warm yet tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "You've really created something special."

"Thank you, Orm. That means a lot coming from you," Ling replied softly, trying to ignore the bittersweet memories that surfaced.

As the gathering continued, laughter filled the mansion, and for a moment, Ling felt like the past was behind her. She had built a life she was proud of, filled with love, success, and family. No matter the complexities of their histories, today was a day to celebrate their bonds and the new beginnings they had all created.