Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 11

Engfa stood silently for a moment, her hand tightly gripping the intricately crafted pocket watch, her eyes filled with meaning. This watch was not just a timepiece; it carried deep memories and powerful feelings she had for Charlotte. Made of pure silver, its surface had tarnished with time, but the intricate engravings remained clear, like a witness to the moments Engfa had experienced during her time in the military.

She gently opened the watch, revealing a pristine white dial adorned with elegant Roman numerals. The hour and minute hands sparkled with light, symbolizing the time she had dedicated to her duty and the precious memories shared with Charlotte. Every time she glanced at the watch, Engfa was reminded of the difficult days in the military, where time passed slowly yet held significant meaning.

When Charlotte looked at the watch, Engfa felt a wave of excitement surge within her. She knew this was a special gift, not just an ordinary watch but a symbol of love and sacrifice. Engfa softly said:

“Charlotte, this is the watch I have carried with me since my early days in the military. It has witnessed all my ups and downs, and now I want to give it to you. It’s like a promise that no matter what happens, I will always be by your side.”

Charlotte looked up at Engfa, her face reflecting surprise and emotion.

“But... why this watch?” she asked, her voice filled with respect.

Engfa smiled, her eyes sparkling.

“Because I know the battles ahead will be long, and we cannot predict what will happen. But I want you to know that in my heart, you will always be the most important person. This watch will remind us of the time and the beautiful memories we have together.”

Charlotte gently accepted the watch from Engfa’s hand, feeling its weight and significance. She nodded, her eyes brimming with tears but filled with determination.

“Thank you, Engfa. I will take care of it as a token of our bond.”

In that moment, the world around them seemed to freeze, leaving only the two of them with their sincere and profound emotions. Engfa and Charlotte understood that they were embarking on a journey not only of battles but also of love and hope.

That night, Engfa sat in contemplation at the table, the flickering oil lamp illuminating the coded message before her. Charlotte had only helped her decipher the difficult parts of the first step; Engfa could figure out the rest.

After a few professional maneuvers, the series of mysterious letters gradually appeared: ผู้ช่วยสี่เมษายนสี่ (Phûu chûai sì mēasǭn sì).

(Explanation: ผู้ช่วย (Phûu chûai): "Assistant" – representing support and companionship สี่เมษายนสี่ (Sì mēasǭn sì): "April 4th" – directly referencing the special day when the two first met.)

“Assistant… April 4th,” she murmured.

Emotions surged within her. The meaning of the code suddenly touched her heart. Each word, each letter felt like a puzzle piece about Charlotte, about the day they first met at the refugee camp, when the scent of sunflowers wafted through the air. Now, that connection felt stronger than ever.

But at that moment, she remembered that Charlotte had returned to the refugee camp to assist soldiers who had just been trapped in a collapsed bunker.

Engfa suddenly felt a wave of anxiety rise. Was Charlotte the "assistant" mentioned in the code? If so, who was the spy she needed to find? She couldn't believe her eyes.

The complex feelings and suspicion enveloped her mind, and her heart swelled with guilt for having doubted the one she loved.

She couldn't face Charlotte for a whole week. Every time they met, Charlotte’s gaze made it impossible for Engfa to remain steadfast.