Maybe This Time

004

A month had passed since Orm's unexpected encounter with Lingling, and she had tried to move on, but Orm was determined to leave the past behind.

She met a woman named Anada, who was kind, warm, and attentive. Being with Anada felt easy, free from the complex emotions that her relationship with Lingling always stirred up.

Orm found herself slowly letting go of the pain, but deep down, traces of her past with Lingling still lingered.

Orm and Anada sat across from each other in a cozy, low-lit restaurant. The conversation flowed naturally and Orm felt herself smiling in a way she hadn't in a long time.

Anada leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. "So, Orm, tell me about yourself, what makes you happy?"

Orm laughed, a bit taken aback. "Oh, that's a big question. I guess... I like simple things. Quiet mornings, a good book, and cooking, even though I'm not great at it."

Anada chuckled. "I can't cook to save my life, so I guess we'd starve together."

Orm laughed along, but her thoughts drifted back to how Lingling used to tease her the same way. Quickly, she shook off the thought, focusing back on Anada.

"You know, it's really nice to meet someone who's so genuine," Orm admitted, surprised at her own honesty. "I didn't think l'd be dating again."

Anada raised an eyebrow, curious. "Bad experience?"

Orm hesitated, a flicker of pain crossing her face. "Something like that. Let's just say... I've learned a lot about myself recently."

Later that night, Orm caught up with Susie over the phone, sharing her excitement about Anada. Yet, as she spoke, a faint sense of guilt crept up, and her thoughts drifted to Lingling's apology.

Susie's voice brought her back. "So, sounds like you're finally moving on. How does it feel?"

Orm paused, choosing her words carefully. "It feels... good. But sometimes, I catch myself comparing Anada to Ling. It's like she's still there, in the background, even though I want her to be gone."

Susie's tone softened, sensing her friend's inner conflict. "Orm, letting go of someone who was such a big part of your life isn't easy. But if Anada makes you feel happy, don't hold back just because of the past. You deserve this."

Orm sighed, nodding even though Susie couldn't see her. "I know. It's just... complicated."

Over the next few weeks, Orm and Anada grew closer, spending more time together, sharing stories, and exploring the city. Anada's laughter and warm presence helped Orm feel a sense of peace she hadn't felt in a long time.

One evening, after a casual dinner, they walked along the riverside, the city lights reflecting off the water.

Anada stopped, looking at Orm with an openness that made Orm's heart skip.

"Orm, I'm really glad we met," Anada said softly. "You've been through a lot, but I hope... maybe we could have something special too."

Orm felt her throat tighten, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. She wanted to move forward with Anada, to let go of the past completely. But the shadow of her history with Lingling hovered, making her question if she was truly ready.

She met Anada's eyes, feeling a warmth she hadn't expected. "Me too. Being with you has been... healing. I'm just scared, I guess. Scared of making the same mistakes or holding onto the past."

Anada took her hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "Whatever it is you're holding onto, it's okay. Just don't let it stop you from moving forward. I'll be here, as long as you want me to be."

Orm managed a small smile, grateful for Anada's patience. "Thank you, Anada. I... I think I really needed to hear that."

That night, after saying goodbye to Anada, Orm returned to her apartment. She felt lighter, freer, like the weight of her past was slowly lifting.

She went through her evening routine, trying to unwind, but a sense of unease crept in. She checked her phone out of habit and noticed a message notification.

It was from Lingling: Hope you're doing well, Orm.

Orm stared at the message, her emotions conflicted. The calm she'd felt with Anada moments ago seemed to waver. She thought about not replying but found herself typing a short response.

Orm: Thank you, Ling. I am.

As she pressed "send," Orm felt a pang of nostalgia. She realized that while she was moving forward, the scars from her past with Lingling might take longer to heal than she'd thought.

She put down her phone, closing her eyes, silently hoping that her heart would one day be ready to love without hesitation.