Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 35

As work grew busier for both Engfa and Charlotte, they still made time for each other. Engfa was always proud to be the one taking Charlotte to work every day, never letting her wait or feel troubled. This gesture was not only a display of love but also a testament to the attentive care Engfa gave to Charlotte. Every morning, Engfa would wake up early to prepare breakfast, even making Charlotte's favorite dishes.

• "Sweetheart, I made your favorite sticky rice today! Come down for breakfast!" Engfa called from the kitchen, her voice filled with excitement.

Charlotte, brushing her teeth as she ran downstairs, her eyes lighting up upon seeing the spread in front of her. She gently hugged Engfa from behind, breathing in the delicious aroma.

• "You really are an angel; I'm so lucky to have you," Charlotte whispered, feeling the love Engfa put into every gesture.

They sat down together, sharing laughs over their plans for the day. Engfa not only cared for Charlotte's meals but was also a steady emotional support for her. During breakfast, they often shared stories about work and the interesting things they encountered. Engfa would listen closely as Charlotte spoke about her stressful meetings or the challenging tasks she faced.

• "Today in the meeting, I had to present the investigation progress, and everyone had so many questions. I was so nervous!" Charlotte shared, worry shining in her eyes.

• "I know you'll do great. You have the talent and strength," Engfa encouraged, holding her hand tightly.

• "Remember, we've overcome so much together before. Like the first time you presented with me at school? You did way better than expected!"

Charlotte smiled, feeling the trust and love in Engfa's gaze. After breakfast, they would clean up together and enjoy a favorite movie to relax. Engfa wrapped an arm around Charlotte as they watched, feeling happy with her by her side. She looked at Charlotte with a deep love and pride in her eyes.

Over time, Engfa grew interested in entrepreneurship. After months of planning, she decided to start her own textile company, specializing in handmade clothing and exports. The company name Engfa chose was "Enduring Legacy" (เอลเดอริง เลกาซี) - symbolizing resilience and the enduring spirit of the country post-war. The acronym, EL, not only held a deep meaning but was also a meaningful gift from Engfa to Charlotte on their one-year anniversary.

Enduring Legacy was situated in a vibrant part of the city, in a modern office space that still carried a traditional touch. The walls were decorated with artworks from local artisans, reflecting the cultural beauty and heritage of the nation. In the spacious workspace, Engfa created a comfortable, well-equipped environment for her employees, with natural lighting and surrounding greenery for a close-to-nature feel.

The production workshop was fully equipped with modern machinery, where skilled workers diligently crafted quality textile products, from traditional attire to modern designs. Engfa focused on sustainable and eco-friendly materials, showcasing her commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection.

The company provided local artisans with job opportunities, helping sustain traditional crafts and develop the community. Engfa felt proud to see products crafted by her and talented workers being exported abroad, bringing the nation's culture and heritage closer to the world.

The team at the company was carefully selected by Engfa, not only for their skills but also for their dedication to the work. She organized regular training sessions to improve their skills, encouraging them to cultivate creativity and contribute fresh ideas. Engfa emphasized that each product was not just a mere item but the result of hard work and love that everyone poured into it.

Despite her busy schedule, Engfa still wanted to surprise Charlotte. She decided to keep her new company a secret until everything was stable and thriving. After her shift at the Ministry of Defense, Engfa would head over to her company to handle everything. Each time she returned home, she was filled with joy but also a bit of anxiety about keeping this secret, unsure when she would finally reveal it to Charlotte.

Meanwhile, Charlotte increasingly had to communicate with old agents during her investigation. Late-night calls and secret exchanges made Engfa uncomfortable. She knew it was just work, but sometimes it felt like there was a wall between them. Engfa reminded herself that Charlotte would share everything when necessary, but jealousy quietly began to grow inside her.

One day, during a security check, Engfa unexpectedly saw Charlotte with Hub Salilak, an old comrade from the resistance. Hub was tall, rugged, and strong, and the two spoke with ease and familiarity. Watching from a distance, Engfa couldn't hold back the surge of jealousy. It felt like a dagger to her heart. She worried that Charlotte might reconnect with past relationships.

At home, Engfa tried to appear calm, but her aloofness didn't escape Charlotte's notice. Charlotte could sense the subtle change in Engfa's eyes, filled with hurt and insecurity. She approached Engfa gently, hugging her and asking:

• "Love, is something wrong? I feel like you're not happy."

Engfa looked up at Charlotte, trying to hold herself together:

• "It's nothing. I'm just tired."

Charlotte found it hard to believe. She knew Engfa was always sincere and strong, but the worry in her eyes now made Charlotte anxious.

• "You can tell me anything; I'm always here to listen."

Engfa stayed silent for a long moment, then sighed:

• "I'm just afraid you're spending too much time on work. I don't want you to feel distant from me."

Charlotte smiled, holding Engfa's hand firmly:

• "I love you. Work is just work, and I'll always be by your side. You're the most important thing in my life."

After the conversation, Charlotte tried to be closer to Engfa to soothe her worries. She would often surprise Engfa with small gestures, like cooking her favorite meal or planning a sweet date. They would stroll together under city lights, laughing and enjoying each moment by each other's side.

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Jealousy only brought them closer.

Hy.