Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 49

That weekend, Engfa's red car took Charlotte home to meet her family. Their house was located only about fifteen minutes from downtown Bangkok but was situated in a secluded, high-security area reserved for senior officials. Charlotte eagerly gazed out the window, watching as the stone-paved road led into a quiet neighborhood with lush old trees lining the way, creating a peaceful scene amidst the bustling city.

The car stopped in front of a grand estate, with an architecture that blended traditional Thai features and a hint of Western style-arched roofs, large intricately carved pillars, exuding power and elegance. Charlotte was slightly surprised, feeling both anxious and proud, knowing this was where Engfa had grown up.

Engfa got out, opened the door, and held her hand as they walked inside, her warm gaze steady on Charlotte. The interior was spacious but cozy, filled with wooden furniture and silk drapes, adorned with classical paintings and local deity statues.

Charlotte tried to hide her nervousness upon seeing Mr. Thuniwad and Mrs. Dine already waiting in the living room. They smiled warmly as Engfa entered with her.

• "Mom! Dad! I'd like to introduce you to Charlotte, the one I love," Engfa said, her eyes bright, showing undeniable pride and affection.

Why "the one I love" instead of "my girlfriend"? The phrasing revealed Engfa's joy and pride in having Charlotte in her life, showing just how much she valued her.

Mr. Thuniwad smiled kindly, his gaze understanding. Mrs. Dine, with a gentle smile, stood up and embraced Charlotte without hesitation.

• "Welcome, Charlotte. We're so happy to meet you!" she said, pulling Charlotte into a warm hug.

Charlotte smiled shyly but felt comfortable with the warm welcome from Engfa's parents. Engfa looked at Charlotte, smiling softly and squeezing her hand for reassurance.

Charlotte handed the gifts she had prepared for Engfa's parents-a special Thai tea set for Mr. Thuniwad and an intricately woven silk scarf for Mrs. Dine. They admired the thoughtful and elegant gifts, complimenting Charlotte's attentiveness.

Plaifa, Engfa's older sister, came downstairs, looking poised in a tasteful outfit with her hair neatly tied up. She approached Charlotte with a friendly look and offered a gentle hug.

• "Our sister-in-law has arrived. I've been waiting for you both for a long time," Plaifa said, her smile warm.

• "This dress really suits you, Char," she added, admiring her outfit and showering her with praise.

Charlotte handed Plaifa her gift, a set of premium painting supplies and a handcrafted wooden palette. Plaifa's eyes sparkled with joy upon seeing the gift.

• "You're so thoughtful! I've been searching for this set for so long but couldn't find it. Did you know I love painting and chose this for me?" she asked.

Charlotte nodded with a smile, pleased that she had chosen well. The three of them chatted happily, while Mrs. Dine, clearly pleased, held Charlotte's hand and led her into the kitchen.

Seeing her mother and sister already surrounding Charlotte, Engfa jokingly feigned annoyance.

• "Mom and sis, don't steal my girlfriend from me. You're taking all her time already!" Engfa teased, making everyone burst into laughter.

In the kitchen, Mrs. Dine had prepared a basket of fresh fruits, including mangoes, longans, and rambutans. She carefully plated each fruit before sitting next to Charlotte, chatting with her. Plaifa joined them, sharing family stories, and Charlotte listened intently, occasionally laughing and feeling as though she was already part of this family.