Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 68

The dawn scene on Samui Island is truly magnificent as the first rays of sunlight peek through the clouds, coloring the sky with a warm orange hue. The sea is calm, with gentle waves lapping against the shore, blending with the peaceful atmosphere to create a natural, soothing melody. From the window of her room, Engfa gazes out at the vast ocean, spotting the small fishing boats of the local fishermen like tiny dots on the wide blue canvas. A deep sense of tranquility rises within her after a restful night's sleep.

Today is even more special as she has planned to visit the small islands around Samui, a journey she has longed for. No longer rushing with the pace of daily life, today she wakes up leisurely at 7 AM, savoring the sweet laziness of her holiday. After taking care of her personal hygiene, Engfa decides to bake the scones that Charlotte loves- the ones Charlotte's mother used to make whenever she received good grades. For Charlotte, the sweet flavor and the warm buttery smell of the scones are cherished memories from her mother, a treat that accompanied her through countless joys and pride during her childhood. Engfa wants to recreate that flavor, hoping to bring Charlotte a sense of familiarity and warmth from her homeland.

Engfa steps into the small kitchen where she is staying, a simple yet cozy space filled with charm, with each item carefully arranged, harmonizing with the classic brown wooden cupboards. The room is bathed in light from the window, through which she can see the sea and feel the salty breeze drifting in, adding life and charm to the atmosphere.

Carefully preparing each ingredient- flour, sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness- Engfa slowly mixes the dough, recalling each step from recipes in books and videos. She kneads the dough gently, her hands growing more skillful after previous baking attempts. Every action is carried out with patience and care. A smile flickers on her face as she remembers the first time she made scones for Charlotte, back then she was clumsy, even cutting her hand. Charlotte had worriedly tended to her wound all day, leaving Engfa with an unforgettable memory. Now, each round of dough is shaped evenly, ready for the oven.

While waiting for the scones to bake, Engfa tidies up the kitchen, her eyes content as she admires the warm space, with soft light streaming through the window, creating an unusual sense of peace. In her mind, images of Charlotte and Marima- two people she deeply values and cherishes- briefly cross her thoughts. Engfa tells herself she will set aside a portion of the scones for the staff at Charlotte's café, and another for the owners of the place where she's renting a room.

The "ding" from the oven signals that the scones are ready. Engfa eagerly opens the oven, the delightful smell of butter, sugar, and flour fills the kitchen, and the golden brown scones, soft and fluffy inside, are placed gently on a plate. She decorates them with mint leaves and a light dusting of powdered sugar, creating a visually appealing platter of scones.

Engfa takes the plate of scones outside and meets the owners, flashing a friendly smile:

●"I've just finished baking some scones. I hope you'll try them!"

The landlady, with kind eyes, accepts the plate, her eyes lighting up with joy:

●"Thank you, Engfa! You're so thoughtful. You seem happier today, really enjoying your holiday, right?"

Engfa smiles in reply, her voice gentle and sincere:

●"Yes, I've felt so peaceful here. It's nice to slow down and appreciate the little things around me. I'm truly grateful to you for creating such a cozy space."

The landlord pats Engfa's shoulder, chuckling:

●"Then enjoy it, young lady! Samui Island still has so many exciting things to explore. Take your time and discover everything."