Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 45

In the early dawn, as the Bangkok sky tinged a soft orange, the city was already filled with the sounds of traffic and the hurried footsteps of workers. In 1942, Bangkok had its characteristic liveliness but also exuded a nostalgic charm, with old buildings intertwined with bustling streets and primitive rickshaws lining the roads. Street vendors pushed carts of noodles back and forth, their calls blending with the jingling bells in their hands, creating a familiar symphony of the city.

Everywhere, greetings and laughter could be heard as people prepared for the new day. The air was filled with the aroma from street food stalls, coffee shops, and bakeries, along with the lively sounds of cooking, making the city feel like a painting both bustling and poetic. Pigeons descended to peck at grains in the square, where street vendors displayed a variety of traditional dishes, making the early morning neighborhood always lively and colorful.

Today was the beginning of the week, and Engfa had woken up earlier than usual because she had planned a special breakfast with Charlotte at their favorite diner. Gently, she leaned down to place a soft kiss on Charlotte's cheek, just enough to wake her with a faint smile. Charlotte opened her eyes, realizing that her beloved was looking at her tenderly.

• "Wake up, my love, we're going for breakfast today," Engfa whispered, her eyes shining with joy.

Charlotte nodded slightly, smiling as she sat up, feeling the warmth of Bangkok's morning through the window. They quickly freshened up and prepared carefully before leaving home. Engfa drove the gleaming red car that Charlotte had given her the day before-a gift she cherished greatly. The car stood out with its deep red color, glowing in the morning light, adding to its elegance and grandeur. They left the house, immersed in a sense of freedom, gliding through Bangkok's bustling streets.

The car sped along the familiar road, the sunlight starting to stretch over the paved street, reflecting off the red car. The two laughed and chatted happily, Engfa's eyes sparkling as she watched Charlotte take in the scenery on either side of the road. A simple feeling of happiness spread through every corner of the street, lane, and alley, filling their hearts like the warmth of a peaceful morning.

Finally, the striking red car stopped in front of a small but very popular street diner. This diner looked old, with worn-out roof tiles, brick walls tinged with age, and faded wooden chairs. Though simple, the diner had an irresistible charm, like an indispensable part of Bangkok's memories. A large pot of broth boiled right at the entrance, emitting the distinctive aroma of Thai spices that made anyone passing by pause to take it in.

The diner was famous for its kuay teow reua-a traditional Thai boat noodle with soft noodles, rich beef broth with signature spices, and a bit of pig's blood for extra richness. When the dish was served, the steaming hot bowl, with its fragrant brown-red broth laced with the scent of cinnamon and star anise, was an unmissable treat for food lovers.

The shop owner, a woman over 50 but full of vitality, recognized them and smiled warmly:

• "Here for breakfast again, you two? It's so lovely to see you always happy together," she said, her voice warm and friendly.

Both Charlotte and Engfa beamed. Charlotte cheerfully replied, her eyes brightening:

• "Yes! And you look younger today!"

• "I'm always happy seeing you two, so wait, let me make it extra special!" the owner replied as she turned to the kitchen, her hands deftly preparing the ingredients.

Engfa watched Charlotte eagerly waiting for the food, her gaze brimming with happiness. For Engfa, nothing was more wonderful than seeing Charlotte joyful and at ease. When the steaming bowls of noodles were served, the enticing aroma filled the air, making it hard for them to wait any longer.

• "Go ahead, try it and see if it's as good as before," Engfa said gently, her eyes full of love as she looked at Charlotte.

Charlotte lifted her chopsticks, picking up a noodle strand, feeling its perfect tenderness. She closed her eyes, inhaling the aroma before carefully taking a bite. The sweetness of the broth, the rich taste of the beef, and the warm spice aroma made Charlotte unable to hold back her praise:

• "It's just as delicious as the first time! Absolutely wonderful!"

Engfa just sat there, smiling as she watched Charlotte, a wordless happiness in her gaze. Her eyes sparkled, as if wanting to capture each of these moments forever.

After finishing their meal, they stood up to pay and prepared to leave. The shop owner smiled affectionately, wishing them well:

• "You two look perfect together! Make sure to invite me to the wedding."

• "Come back again soon!"

Charlotte held Engfa's hand, smiling as she thanked her. Their hands clasped tightly, sharing warmth and understanding. Outside the diner, the morning light had risen high, illuminating every nook and cranny of the city, where people were still busy and lively in their daily lives.

The shiny red car continued down the bustling streets. In contrast to the crowded Bangkok outside, inside the car was a small but cozy space, where it was just the two of them, sharing peaceful moments together.

• "Every day with you is a wonderful day for me," Engfa whispered, her hand still holding Charlotte's tightly.

Charlotte turned to look at Engfa, her eyes filled with unspoken happiness.

• "Me too. I never thought we'd have moments like this in such a turbulent world," Charlotte replied, her voice warm and sincere.

They quietly continued their journey, through the heart of bustling Bangkok, knowing that as long as they had each other, this world would always be a warm and safe place.

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"Perfect together!"