Fallen (Lingorm)

Chapter 23

The sleepover had undeniably shifted something between the two attorneys. They hadn't explicitly discussed it, but their dynamic had softened.

 Their usual teasing and snarky remarks had given way to a more tender side, where friendly banter held an undertone of something unspoken, something neither of them was quite ready to confront.

After wrapping up the third court session—one led by Orm this time—they walked side by side, Lingling holding her black coat draped over her arm. 

"Good job back there, Kornnaphat," Lingling said, her tone professional yet tinged with genuine pride. "Even though it looked like you were about to doze off, you didn't let your exhaustion affect your performance. Did you even sleep last night?"

Orm couldn't help but smile, a rare warmth emanating from her. "Looks like I got into your good side, Kwong."

Orm shrugged lazily, leaning against the courthouse wall. "Yeah, I didn't really sleep much preparing for this session."

Lingling smiled back, but her expression faltered as her gaze shifted, landing on her cousin standing nearby, furiously speaking into his phone. He looked absolutely livid.

  Ling shook her head, deciding it was best to ignore him, lest she accidentally set him off even more.

Orm, noticing her momentary distraction, interrupted her thoughts. "Lunch is on me today?"

Ling raised a skeptical eyebrow, blinking at her as if she'd misheard. "Pinch me if I'm dreaming," she said, only half-joking.

Orm took her at her word, reaching over and giving her arm a playful yet firm pinch. Lingling jumped back, hissing in pain. "Ow! I didn't mean literally!"

Orm laughed, pleased with herself. "Hey, you asked for it."

Ling rolled her eyes, feigning irritation but unable to hide her amusement. "I'm just surprised you're actually asking me to lunch."