Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 57

A new day began on Samui Island, as the early rays of sunlight filtered through the window, gently calling Charlotte to wake up. The clock read 5:30 a.m., and as per her routine, Charlotte began her day by preparing everything for Rainbow Café. In the kitchen, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee and baked goods filled the air, creating a warm, familiar ambiance. She carefully kneaded the dough, mixed ingredients, and arranged each pastry in the oven.

Marima entered the kitchen, her eyes still bearing a sleepy expression.

• "What are you baking this morning, Charlotte?" Marima asked, stretching her shoulders, her voice still drowsy but her face lighting up with a smile.

• "Almond cookies and chocolate muffins," Charlotte replied with a warm smile.

• "I'm also making some apple pies for the weekend charity event."

• "That's wonderful. You always think of others, but rarely of yourself." Marima teased, grabbing a cup for her coffee.

Charlotte laughed, playfully responding:

• "No need to worry about me, because I know you're always thinking of yourself."

Both laughed together, sharing a warm moment before diving into the busy day ahead. By around 7 a.m., the café began to welcome its first customers. Regular patrons greeted Charlotte and Marima with friendly smiles. Soft music played in the background, blending with the sweet aroma of fresh pastries and brewed coffee, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

In the afternoon, as the sun began to set, Charlotte and Marima closed the café earlier than usual to take a walk along the beach. The two walked in step on the soft sand, their gazes lost in the raw beauty of the seaside at dusk.

• "Charlotte, look, the sky is so beautiful today!" Marima exclaimed, her eyes shining.

• "I've never seen a sunset as vibrant as this."

Charlotte smiled softly, her eyes gazing tenderly at the sky painted with shades of orange and purple.

• "Samui is always beautiful. I feel at peace here, Marima. Maybe life will continue quietly like this forever, right?"

Marima looked at Charlotte with a gentle gaze.

• "But you're still thinking about Engfa, aren't you?"

Charlotte lowered her head, hiding the sadness in her eyes.

• "You know me," she answered quietly.

• "No matter how hard I try not to think about it, Engfa is still in my heart."

Marima slowed her pace and gently supported Charlotte.

• "Charlotte, I understand. But sometimes, we have to let go to find peace within ourselves. That's why you came back here, isn't it?"

Charlotte stayed silent, letting Marima's words sink in. She looked far into the distance where the sun was slowly fading behind the waves. Yes, she had returned to Samui for peace, but her heart had yet to fully heal from old wounds.

• "I know, Marima. I just need a little more time," Charlotte said softly, her eyes filled with sadness.

The two continued walking, letting the sea breeze blow away their troubles. A peaceful life, good friends like Marima, and moments of solace together—these were the things that soothed Charlotte's soul, helping her find her way back to tranquility.

In Bangkok, Engfa lived a disciplined and intense life, her days beginning at dawn. While the city was still wrapped in quiet, she was already awake, ready for a long day at the Ministry of Defense. As a senior officer leading a special unit, Engfa's duties went beyond routine reports; they required sensitivity and decisiveness, especially when there were still threats to monitor.