A Spark in the Darkness || lingorm ff

Sweet Connections

Lingling stood by the dessert table, absently picking at a mini tart while trying to ignore the cacophony of laughter and conversation around her. Her parents had gotten caught up with Orm's parents, leaving Lingling feeling more like a spectator than a participant at the lavish party. She took a deep breath, wishing she could fade into the background.

Just as she was about to retreat to a quieter corner, she felt a gentle nudge at her side. Lingling turned to see Orm grinning at her, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Hey, tart girl! You look like you could use some fun," Orm said, her voice bright and cheerful. "Want to escape this place for a bit?"

Lingling blinked in surprise. "Escape? How?"

"Follow me!" Orm declared, grabbing Lingling's hand and pulling her away from the dessert table.

They weaved through the crowd, Lingling's heart racing as she realized they were heading outside. The night air was cool and refreshing, a welcome change from the stuffy atmosphere of the hall. Orm led her to a small garden illuminated by twinkling fairy lights.

"This is my secret hideout," Orm said proudly, gesturing around. "I come here when I need a break from all the boring adult stuff."

Lingling couldn't help but smile at Orm's infectious enthusiasm. "It's beautiful! I didn't know this was here."

Orm plopped down on a bench, motioning for Lingling to join her. "So, what's your story, Lingling? I want to know more about the 'smart one' everyone talks about!"

Lingling felt her cheeks heat up, but there was something comforting about Orm's genuine interest. "There's not much to tell. I study a lot. I like history and... well, I'm not exactly the life of the party," she admitted, glancing down at her shoes.

Orm leaned closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Come on! Everyone has a wild side! What's the most rebellious thing you've ever done?"

Lingling thought for a moment, her heart racing. "Uh, once I stayed up all night studying for a test and forgot to sleep," she said, giggling at the memory. "Does that count?"

Orm laughed, her carefree spirit making Lingling feel lighter. "That's so tame! We need to spice up your life. How about this-let's make a pact! For every exam you ace this semester, I'll take you out for ice cream! But for every time you feel overwhelmed, you have to join me for a spontaneous adventure!"

Lingling couldn't help but laugh at Orm's enthusiasm. "You really like ice cream, huh?"

"Only the best flavors! But more importantly, I want to see you smile. You seem like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders," Orm said, her tone shifting to something softer.

Lingling felt a warmth spread through her. "I guess it's just... family expectations. I don't want to disappoint them."

Orm nodded, her expression understanding. "That's tough. But remember, you're more than just your grades. You have a life outside of study halls! And I'll help you find it."

Lingling looked at Orm, feeling a sense of hope bloom within her. Maybe, just maybe, she could let herself enjoy this unexpected friendship.

"Okay, it's a deal," Lingling said, extending her pinky. "Ice cream and adventures, here we come!"

Orm's face lit up, and she hooked her pinky with Lingling's. "Perfect! I'll hold you to it!"

As they sat together, sharing their dreams and fears, Lingling felt the tension in her shoulders begin to ease. For the first time that night, she felt like she belonged. Orm's laughter and bright personality wrapped around her like a warm blanket, and Lingling realized that perhaps they were more alike than she had thought.