Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 39

After the frightening incident, Charlotte began to grasp the fragility of life. Sitting by the window, gazing into the distant sky, she quietly reflected. Memories of Engfa, those happy moments together, made Charlotte cherish her even more. She understood that time waits for no one, and nothing could hold back the deep love she felt for her beloved.

Today, Charlotte decided to spend her time fully devoted to caring for Engfa. She gently cooked her favorite dishes, took her on a stroll around the neighborhood, and even drove Engfa to a store to pick up some gifts she wanted to send to her family. Charlotte carefully selected each item, hoping they would convey a part of her love to Engfa's loved ones.

That evening, in a cozy room under flickering candlelight, they leaned against each other on the sofa, the silence filled only with the gentle rhythm of their heartbeats and breathing. Charlotte lay on Engfa's lap, looking up at her with clear eyes, and suddenly proposed:

• "Engfa, I think... we should build a home together. A place that's just for you and me."

Engfa looked at Charlotte, her eyes filled with surprise but also with boundless happiness. She smiled, a bit hesitantly:

• "Are you serious? I'd love that, but... are you sure...?"

Charlotte gently placed a finger on Engfa's lips, cutting her off:

• "No 'buts,' Engfa. I want a family with you. I want to wake up every day with you by my side, sharing every moment, every smile, and even the sorrows."

Charlotte's words made Engfa's heart beat faster. She held her beloved's hands tightly, warmth and joy spreading from her hands to her heart. In their eyes was a sparkling conviction that, no matter what challenges came their way, their love would be strong enough to overcome everything. Engfa whispered:

• "We'll build a home, just the two of us. From now on, we'll always be together."

Two years had passed since they fell in love, with each moment flowing like a gentle river through days filled with joy and happiness. Today was an anniversary Engfa had been secretly planning for over a year, but Charlotte had no idea. Last night, Charlotte nestled in Engfa's embrace, longing to hold her as they once did after their trip to Phuket. Busy work schedules had left them with little time to be close, but last night, Engfa simply held Charlotte in her arms, keeping her safe and at peace, saving all the special moments for today.

Early morning, the city sky was clear, with sunlight gently shimmering through the windows. Familiar bustling sounds echoed from the streets-the newspaper vendor announcing the news, street hawkers calling out, and crowds pouring into the streets for work. Thailand was miraculously reviving after the ravages of war, and peace had once again found its way into daily life with newfound hope.

Engfa gently opened her eyes, feeling her arm tingling after a night spent holding her "little fluff." Charlotte slept soundly in her arms, her soft brown hair cascading over her shoulders, her serene face breathing rhythmically as Engfa gazed at her, captivated. She felt incredibly fortunate to have this woman beside her. Charlotte, in her white nightgown, looked delicate and ethereal, like a blossom, making Engfa stare in awe. She carefully lifted her off her arm, placed Charlotte gently back on the bed, and quietly went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.

She made crispy toast, sunny-side-up eggs with a few slices of cucumber, and a warm glass of milk. When everything was ready, Engfa returned to the bedroom, leaned down, and placed a gentle kiss on Charlotte's cheek, waking her with a soft voice:

• "Charlotte, wake up, breakfast is ready."

Charlotte stirred, her eyes gradually opening, with a drowsy look. Seeing Engfa, she smiled, wrapped her arms around her neck, and muttered playfully:

• "I don't want to get up... I just want to stay in your arms like this forever."

Engfa chuckled, leaned down to kiss Charlotte's forehead, her voice filled with tenderness:

• "Today's a special day; you wouldn't want to miss it, right? Come on, let me help you get ready."

Charlotte was now fully awake, her eyes widening as she looked at Engfa with curiosity.

• "A special day? Do you have something planned?" Charlotte asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

• "I'm taking you somewhere special. But first, you have to eat breakfast and get ready," Engfa replied, her gaze filled with love.

After helping Charlotte freshen up, Engfa carried her downstairs to the dining room. Charlotte wrapped her arms around her neck, nuzzling her face into Engfa's neck, savoring the familiar gentle scent she adored. As they sat down, Charlotte grinned mischievously, her eyes twinkling:

• "Engfa, are you taking me to a fancy restaurant? Or maybe on a trip?"

Engfa just smiled, sipping her milk without answering, letting her keep guessing. After finishing breakfast, Engfa led Charlotte to the car. They drove through familiar streets, but with each turn, Charlotte's curiosity grew, as she had no idea where they were heading.

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