A Spark in the Darkness || lingorm ff

The Meaning of Friendship

Orm woke up to sunlight streaming through her window, stretching lazily in bed. It was a Saturday, and she had no obligations-just the freedom to spend time with Lingling. A grin spread across her face at the thought of their plans for the day. They had decided to explore a nearby café that supposedly had the best pastries in town, and Orm was determined to convince Lingling to try a cupcake that looked like it had a personality of its own.

As she got ready, Orm couldn't help but reflect on how much Lingling had changed her life. Their friendship felt so genuine, unlike anything Orm had experienced before. With Lingling, there was no pretense-no expectations. It was refreshing to be around someone who appreciated her for who she was, and not just as a social butterfly flitting from one friend to the next.

After a quick breakfast, Orm grabbed her bag and headed out, excitement bubbling in her chest. She could hardly wait to see Lingling's face when she tried the infamous cupcake.

When Orm arrived at Lingling's house, she knocked on the door, and to her surprise, it swung open almost immediately. Lingling stood there, dressed casually in a cute oversized sweater and leggings, looking effortlessly adorable.

"Hey! Ready to embark on our pastry adventure?" Orm said, her enthusiasm evident.

"Absolutely! Just let me grab my bag," Lingling replied, a smile brightening her face. Orm's heart fluttered at the sight; Lingling looked so comfortable and happy.

As they walked to the café, Orm noticed how Lingling kept stealing glances at her, her cheeks slightly flushed. It made Orm's stomach do flips. Was it just her imagination, or was there something more between them?

Once they reached the café, they were greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked goods. Orm's eyes lit up at the sight of the pastry counter, showcasing an array of colorful desserts.

"Look at those cupcakes!" Orm exclaimed, pointing dramatically at a bright blue one topped with a tiny edible unicorn. "We have to get that one!"

Lingling chuckled, shaking her head. "You and your obsession with unicorns. What's next, a unicorn-themed business plan?"

Orm feigned a gasp, placing a hand on her chest. "I could totally pitch that! Imagine the market potential-unicorn-themed everything!"

As they ordered their pastries, Orm noticed how Lingling's face lit up with each bite of her cupcake. "This is amazing! You were right to drag me here," Lingling said, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Orm felt a warm glow in her chest. "Told you! See? This is what friendship is all about-trying new things together!"

Lingling paused, her smile fading slightly. "You know, I never really understood what friendship meant until now. Back in school, people only wanted me around to do their homework or help them study. It felt more like a transaction than a connection."

Orm frowned, feeling a pang of sympathy. "That's not fair! You're such an amazing person, and anyone would be lucky to have you as a friend. I'm really glad we found each other."

Lingling's gaze softened, and for a moment, Orm thought she saw a flicker of vulnerability in her eyes. "Thank you, Orm. I feel so grateful to have you in my life. You make me laugh and feel accepted for who I am."

Orm's heart raced. "Well, you bring out the best in me, too. I mean, I can't help but be extra silly when I'm around you!" She gave a dramatic twirl, nearly tripping over her own feet, causing Lingling to burst into laughter.

"Okay, I'll give you that. Your silliness is infectious!" Lingling replied, her laughter ringing like music in Orm's ears.

They spent the next hour joking, eating, and sharing stories. Orm shared embarrassing childhood memories, like the time she accidentally showed up to school wearing mismatched shoes, and Lingling confessed to her own moments of awkwardness.

As they wrapped up their pastries, Lingling's expression shifted from joy to something more serious. "I really appreciate this day, Orm. You've shown me what it means to have a true friend, and I'm really grateful for that."

Orm felt a rush of affection, wanting nothing more than to pull Lingling into a hug. "Anytime, Ling! Friends look out for each other, and I'm here to make sure you're never alone again."

Lingling smiled, her eyes shimmering with gratitude.

As they walked back, Orm decided to test the waters. "Hey, Ling, I've been thinking... What do you say we plan a study session together? I could use a business partner who actually knows their stuff."

Lingling's eyebrows raised playfully. "Are you asking for help? I'm honored! But what's in it for me?"

Orm grinned mischievously. "How about an unlimited supply of cupcakes? I'll even make them in the shape of unicorns!"

Lingling rolled her eyes, but Orm could see the laughter bubbling underneath. "Deal! But only if I get to decorate them. I have some creative ideas that will blow your unicorn-loving mind."

Their laughter echoed down the street, and as they neared Lingling's house, Orm felt a sense of warmth enveloping her.

"Thanks for today, Orm. I really had fun," Lingling said, pausing at her doorstep.

"Me too! I always have fun with you," Orm replied, feeling bold. "And you're stuck with me now, so get used to it."

Lingling chuckled softly, and in that moment, Orm leaned in, planting a quick kiss on Lingling's cheek. It was innocent, but it sent a jolt of electricity through both of them.

Lingling's cheeks turned a deep shade of pink, and she looked at Orm with wide eyes. "W-What was that for?"

Orm laughed, pretending to act nonchalant. "Just a friendly gesture! Don't read too much into it!"

As Lingling opened her door, Orm felt a rush of warmth in her heart. Their friendship was blossoming into something more, and for the first time, Orm realized she didn't just want to be Lingling's friend. She wanted to be everything to her.

With one last wave, Lingling stepped inside, leaving Orm standing at the door, heart racing and excitement bubbling within her. The future felt bright, and she couldn't wait to see where this journey would take them next.

_to be continued _