The Senator's Daughter

Chapter Two

Ling woke up to the chime of her phone, the early morning light casting a warm glow across her room. She squinted against the brightness as she reached for her phone on the nightstand. The message illuminated on the screen made her sit up straighter.

It was from Senator Nawin Xavier Kornnaphat himself, a man known for his strategic mind and influential reach. The words were direct yet cordial, inviting her to host an upcoming charity gala. He noted her growing status as a rising actress, one whose star power and devoted following could bring an extra spark to the event. The subtle flattery and the weight of the request weren't lost on Ling. The senator didn't reach out to just anyone; this was important.

Ling's heart fluttered, more from the memories that the name "Kornnaphat" evoked than from the proposition itself. Accepting meant being close to Orm again, something she hadn't anticipated this soon. Yet, the challenge stirred a mix of anxiety and resolve within her. She typed out her response, agreeing to the terms laid out in the senator's proposal.

The day of the event came quickly, and with it, the whirlwind of preparation. The grand venue was already buzzing with movement when Ling arrived. She was ushered into a private room to review the event itinerary and ensure everything was aligned for her hosting duties. The low hum of activity beyond the doors reminded her of how life had changed since she was last here—not just for her, but for everyone connected to this world of influence and power.

A knock at the door drew her attention, followed by a voice that stirred a familiar, bittersweet ache. "Welcome, Ms. Kwong," Orm said, stepping into the room with an elegance that seemed effortless. Dressed in a tailored suit that accentuated her long frame, Orm exuded authority and charm, her hazel-green eyes sharp yet carrying a warmth that disarmed most people.

Ling swallowed hard, composing herself before looking up. Their gazes met, and time seemed to stretch thin between them. Orm's eyes didn't carry the recognition Ling half hoped for, but the interest in her expression was clear.

"It's an honor to have you here. The senator appreciates your support," Orm continued, offering a polite, professional smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.

Ling forced herself to return the smile, her heart thundering beneath her calm exterior. "The honor's mine. I'm happy to contribute."

Silence hung between them, charged with something unnamed. Ling's pulse quickened, aware of Orm's proximity as she stepped further into the room. The air grew thicker, and Ling could almost feel the weight of the memories pressing between them—at least on her end.

Orm seemed oblivious, maintaining a composed, cordial manner that bordered on distant. Yet, as her gaze flickered across Ling's face, there was a pause—a hint of curiosity that made Ling's breath hitch.

"I hope the preparations are to your liking," Orm said, her voice softer now, almost personal, as if trying to bridge the gap that neither of them acknowledged.

Ling nodded, resisting the urge to reach out or say something reckless. "Everything's perfect. Thank you, Orm."

The use of her name made Orm's eyebrows raise slightly, the corner of her lips lifting in a subtle smile. It wasn't much, but it was enough to send a spark skittering down Ling's spine.

"Good. I'll see you later, then." Orm's eyes lingered a second longer before she turned and left, the sound of her footsteps fading as she moved down the corridor.

Ling exhaled, the tension dissipating only slightly with Orm's absence. The event was still ahead, and with it, the promise of more moments like this—tantalizing, suffused with tension, and dangerous in their potential.

Ling sat down in the chair nearest to her, the strength in her legs waning as soon as the door closed behind Orm. The room felt larger now, echoing with the silence she left behind. She rubbed her temples, willing herself to regain composure. This wasn't the time to let old feelings resurface, not when she had a role to play tonight—a role that demanded perfection and poise.