Destinado a ti (Fayeyoko)

10

It had been two weeks since the closeness between Yoko and Faye had begun to transform into something deeper. Although in the eyes of others it was nothing more than a pleasant and discreet "friendship", both knew that what they shared was more complex, something that extended beyond the obvious, something that they still did not dare to define for fear of breaking the fragile harmony they had built.

Time moved forward relentlessly, and with it, Yoko counted the days until the end of the recording of the first season of her series. Despite the excitement she felt for the closure, a shadow of sadness accompanied her, aware that the next few days of rest would mean distance, the possible absence of that figure who had become so essential in her life.

In recent weeks, Faye's presence had become a balm. Her attentions were incessant: she took her home after each shoot, making sure that everything was in order, from the food to the smallest details. Yoko had even thought about firing Dunk, her driver, who was hardly needed lately. But what disturbed her the most, and at the same time filled her with an unspeakable emotion, was Faye's overprotective instinct, a gesture as unexpected as it was captivating.

When the lights on the set went out for the last time, marking the end of the season, P'Wan and his team organized a dinner at an elegant hotel to celebrate and thank everyone for their efforts. The night was bright and full of expectations, as Yoko and Faye crossed the entrance of the hotel dressed in outfits that radiated complicity. They were a sight that elicited glances and smiles from the team, especially from P'Wan, who watched his two friends with curiosity.

"What's wrong, friend? Y-you look different," P'Wan asked with a hint of mischief, leaning toward Faye, who was sitting next to him.

Faye arched an eyebrow, trying to maintain her composure. "What are you talking about?" she whispered, though she knew exactly what her friend meant.

P'Wan looked at her, savoring the moment. "He hadn't meant to say it, but you act differently around Yoko."

Faye's face hardened for a moment, her thoughts crashing together like tumultuous waves. She took a breath, and in a low voice, almost between her teeth, she let out the truth that was troubling her. "I don't know, P'Wan... I think I was wrong. Yoko is different. She makes me want to be different. I want her to be okay, to not feel alone. This industry can be cruel, and I want to protect her from that."

P'Wan was silent for a moment, surprised by the vulnerability in Faye's eyes. It was rare to see that side of her, a woman known for her strength and independence. But he understood it; he had felt Yoko's warmth and innocence, too, and he was glad to have someone like Faye looking out for her.

"That's not what I expected to hear, but I'm glad for it, Faye. Just make sure you take good care of Yoko, and I mean it, Malisorn. She's the little one on this team, and we're all as protective of her as you are," P'Wan replied seriously, placing his hand on Faye's in a gesture of support.

Before they could continue their conversation, a waiter came over to take their orders. Yoko, still mired in indecision, was flipping through the menu when a firm voice interrupted her.

"For the lady, sushi, ramen, a serving of noodles and fish curry. And for me, a Tom Kha Kai," Faye said naturally, not taking her eyes off the menu.

Yoko turned her head sharply, her gaze reflecting surprise and a hint of indignation. "Hey! That's too much, I won't be able to eat all that," she replied, her voice higher than usual, but with a spark of amusement contained in her eyes.

"You will, you have to eat well, Yoko," Faye replied, her dark eyes filled with an unwavering determination.

"I'm going to get fat, Malisorn, if you keep taking care of me like this," Yoko protested, her pout barely hiding a playful smile.