Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 30

When the sun began to set, everyone sat together on the sand, resting and watching the sunset over the sea. The sky turned shades of orange and pink, and the ocean sparkled under the day’s last light. Engfa and Charlotte held hands as they strolled along the shore, their steps in harmony with the gentle sound of the waves.

In the soft evening light, they gazed at each other with eyes full of sweetness and tenderness.

• “It’s so peaceful, isn’t it, Char?” Engfa murmured, her eyes still fixed on Charlotte.

• “Yes, I’ve never seen a scene as beautiful as this,” Charlotte replied, her eyes reflecting happiness.

Engfa gently squeezed Charlotte’s hand, as if to say this moment would last forever. They continued their walk in meaningful silence, surrounded by the gentle sunset and the sound of the waves, feeling as if it was just the two of them amid the vast nature.

They fell into silence, letting their souls listen to the sounds of the sea and the emotions in their hearts.

• "Engfa, I… I miss my dad," Charlotte suddenly spoke, her voice breaking with emotion.

• "In moments like this, I think about all those times he took me to the beach, telling me endless stories."

Engfa stopped, still holding Charlotte’s hand tightly. She looked at Charlotte with a gaze full of understanding and empathy.

• "I understand, Charlotte," Engfa replied softly, her eyes embracing all of Charlotte's feelings.

• "There's nothing wrong with missing him. You can always share with me. Your father would be so proud to know how strong you've become."

Charlotte nodded, her eyes shimmering under the sunset. Her emotions felt released as Engfa pulled her into a gentle hug, comforting her with all the warmth she needed.

• "You always have me here," Engfa whispered, gently patting Charlotte's back.

• "Whenever you need a shoulder, I’ll always be here for you."

Charlotte leaned into Engfa's embrace, feeling her steady heartbeat, a solid anchor amid her flowing emotions.

• "Thank you, Engfa… I’m truly grateful to have you," Charlotte murmured, her voice growing lighter.

They stood like that for a long while, letting the air around them be filled with love and peace. In Engfa’s warm embrace, Charlotte felt comforted and protected, as if the world had shrunk down to just the two of them in the calmness of the sea and the sunset.

From afar, Tina and Tif returned from their walk and waved at them:

• “Hurry up, you two! It’s time for dinner, and we’re starving!” Tina called out, making everyone laugh as they walked back together.

That evening closed with warmth and laughter, promising a memorable holiday for the entire group.

During their five days in Phuket, they spent time exploring not only the beach but also the local culture. On the first morning, Engfa’s group began their journey by renting motorbikes from the hotel. The sun had just risen, the fresh air and gentle sea breeze lifting everyone’s spirits. Engfa was the first to drive, with Charlotte holding onto her waist, while Tif and Tina cheered and joked on another bike.

• “We’re almost at Wat Chalong Temple! You guys know, it’s one of the largest and most sacred temples here!” Engfa said as she drove, her voice filled with excitement.

• “Really? I heard the locals believe that coming here brings good luck,” Charlotte added, her eyes bright.

• "Let’s hope we get some luck after this trip!" Tif chimed in humorously, making the group laugh.

The road to Wat Chalong Temple unfolded with green trees, barley fields, and winding paths leading to the temple gate. The serene surroundings made everyone feel more relaxed and peaceful. From afar, Wat Chalong emerged with its majestic architecture, tall domes, and intricate golden details shimmering in the sunlight.

• “This temple is so beautiful, even more magnificent than I imagined!” Charlotte exclaimed in awe.

• “Yes, and there are golden Buddha statues inside,” Engfa smiled and explained.

• "When we go in, remember to light incense and make a wish."

Inside the main hall, each of them lit incense, their hearts filled with reverence. Charlotte clasped her hands together, closing her eyes as she wished for many happy, peaceful days with Engfa. Engfa, in turn, prayed for Charlotte’s safety and for their love to remain strong.

Beside them, Tif and Tina were also lighting incense, though they didn’t look particularly solemn, especially Tif.

• “I wish for lots of delicious food and luxurious accommodations!” Tif giggled, her voice full of humor.

• "And the patience to handle Tif’s hunger!” Tina teased, making everyone burst into laughter.

After praying, they took some photos. Charlotte stood in the center, smiling brightly beside the Buddha statues with a look of reverence, while Tif held up her camera, snapping a selfie with a Buddha statue and loudly declaring:

• “This is what I call a Buddha selfie!”

Laughter filled the peaceful temple space, adding joy to the experience while still keeping respectful in such a sacred place.

In the afternoon, after enjoying delicious Thai dishes like tom yum and pad thai, the group was ready to explore new experiences.

They started with a pottery-making class at a local craft village – a fun activity that allowed them to create small items marked with their own touch.

Engfa sat beside Charlotte as they both focused on molding the clay, trying to shape a small pot.

• “What do you think, Charlotte?” Engfa laughed softly as she watched Charlotte struggling with the clay, her hands covered in it.

• “It’s harder than I thought! But it’s fun,” Charlotte grinned, holding up a mushy lump of clay.

• "Look at this! I think it might become… something.”

They both laughed when Charlotte’s “pot” took on an odd but adorable shape. Tif and Tina were also busy molding, creating all sorts of funny shapes.

• “I think this could be… a bowl, but it looks like something… stranger,” Tif said, holding up her misshapen bowl for everyone to see, making them all laugh heartily.

• "We seem to be better at breaking things than making them,” Tina laughed aloud.

In the evening, after the pottery class, the group went to a famous viewpoint to try paragliding.

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Has anyone been to Phuket?