Back at One: Another LingOrm's Story

#1

The warm morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting soft beams across the small but cozy apartment Ling and Orm now shared. It had been a month since they returned from their honeymoon, and the memories of sandy beaches and quiet sunsets still felt fresh. But the honeymoon phase wasn't just about tropical getaways; it was about the subtle shift in their daily lives. They were still adjusting, and in many ways, learning what it meant to share their days as a married couple.

Ling woke up first, as always. She loved the quiet before the city fully woke up, the time when she could make coffee, prepare breakfast, and maybe even squeeze in a bit of reading. Her routine was something that grounded her, even though life with Orm was anything but predictable. As she moved through the kitchen, Ling glanced at the small mess Orm had left the night before—clothes draped over a chair, a half-finished book on the dining table, and, of course, a collection of empty coffee mugs.

She smiled to herself. It wasn't perfect, but she didn't mind the little chaos Orm brought into her life. It made things feel more alive, more vibrant.

The soft shuffle of feet interrupted her thoughts. Orm appeared in the doorway, her hair a messy tangle, eyes half-closed with sleep.

"P'Ling..." Orm yawned, stretching her arms wide. "It's too early for you to be up and dressed. Come back to bed."

Ling turned, holding up the mug of coffee she had just prepared. "I've already started the day, baby. I'll make breakfast, and we can head out later."

Orm grinned, taking the coffee from Ling's hand. "Or... we could ditch all the plans, stay home, and nap."

Ling raised an eyebrow, her calm, practical nature surfacing. "We can't nap all day, Orm. We promised your parents we'd visit them this weekend. You know how much I love Chumphon, and I want you to relax with your family."

Orm leaned against the counter, sipping her coffee. "I know, I know. But can we skip the itinerary this time? I want to spend time with you without rushing from place to place."

Ling considered it for a moment. This was something they were still learning—compromise. Ling had a habit of planning things down to the last detail, while Orm preferred to go with the flow, spontaneous and carefree.

"Alright," Ling agreed with a soft smile. "No plans today. We'll just enjoy it."

Orm's grin widened, and she leaned in to plant a quick kiss on Ling's cheek. "See? You're adjusting to married life already."

Their routine of visiting Chumphon had grown over the past month. Ling, despite her love for structure, found herself cherishing the laid-back vibe of Orm's hometown. It was a place where time slowed down, and everything felt a little more peaceful. Orm's parents were welcoming, always happy to have them, and Ling enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. It also gave her a chance to see Orm in her element, surrounded by the people she loved.

-

As they drove towards Chumphon, the scenery shifted from the bustling city to rolling hills and lush greenery. Ling admired the way the sun glinted off the ocean in the distance, the water sparkling like diamonds.

"You know, I could get used to this drive," Ling said, her voice warm with nostalgia. "It's nice to escape the city every now and then."

Orm nodded, her expression brightening. "Right? It's so much calmer here. Plus, my family is always happy to see us."

When they arrived at Orm's family home, they were greeted with the usual warmth. Orm's mother, Mae Koy, opened the door with a wide smile, pulling her daughter into a tight hug.

"My daughters! You both look wonderful," Mae Koy said, her eyes gleaming as she ushered them inside. "It's good to have you back."

Ling bowed her head slightly, greeting her mother-in-law with the familiar respect she always showed. "It's good to be back, Mae. I've missed this place."