Love Amidst the Flames

Chap 82

The grand opening day of Rainbow Café had finally arrived, a lively yet solemn morning in the heart of Bangkok. The café, located on a bustling street, seemed to have a special vibrancy today as esteemed guests arrived one by one. From early on, Charlotte and Marima had meticulously arranged everything, from the polished wooden tables and chairs to the fresh flower vases lining the entrance. The aroma of coffee filled the air, mingling with the scent of new wood, creating an ambiance both elegant and inviting.

Outside, guests dressed in formal attire, mostly friends of Charlotte and Marima, high-ranking officials, and even some prominent city entrepreneurs, gathered to visit. Gentlemen in classic suits and ladies in graceful traditional dresses and velvet gowns created a colorful and refined scene. Many admiring whispers and glances were directed at Charlotte, a visionary known not only for her intelligence work but also for her business acumen.

Soft music played from a corner of the café, where an antique record player sat on the bar counter. Marima stood there, warmly greeting each guest with a bright smile, while Wan stood close by, proudly watching her every move. Together, they introduced the café's signature drinks, from rich black coffee to lightly fragrant teas.

Engfa, dressed in an elegant outfit, appeared among the crowd, her eyes tender as she looked at Charlotte. When their eyes met, Charlotte beamed with happiness, gently taking her hand and savoring every moment of this memorable opening.

A group of Charlotte and Marima's friends also joined to celebrate, raising their glasses in a toast with well-wishes for Rainbow Café. One of Charlotte's friends lifted a glass and laughed, saying:

"Charlotte, you're truly not only an excellent lieutenant but also a talented businesswoman. Someday, this café will surely become a Bangkok landmark!"

Laughter and warm congratulations filled the café. Bouquets from friends and colleagues adorned the counter and a corner of the room, brightening up the space. Both Charlotte and Marima felt deeply touched by the support of everyone, from friends to officials, each offering praise and encouragement for their success.

As the afternoon began to wane, many guests lingered, reluctant to leave, enjoying the cozy space that felt not just like a new café but also a place filled with memories and dedication. Charlotte and Marima stood side by side, feeling the love and support from everyone, knowing that Rainbow Café was not just a café, but a testament to friendship, love, and shared dreams.

With Charlotte's birthday approaching, Engfa had planned an unforgettable surprise for her, an event that would symbolize her deep love. After days of planning every detail, Engfa decided to bake a large birthday cake herself, decorated with sunflowers-Charlotte's favorite flower, representing brightness and positivity in life. To ensure perfection, Engfa spent an entire week studying recipes, choosing ingredients, and planning how to decorate the cake to make it both beautiful and delicious. Every detail was crafted with care, for one reason alone: to make Charlotte happy.

On the morning of her birthday, Engfa woke early. She saw Charlotte sleeping peacefully beside her, her face gentle and serene. Engfa softly kissed her forehead, then slipped out of bed to prepare for the special day. Today would be like any other workday for them, but Engfa had something grand planned for the evening. She took Charlotte to the café where she would work through the morning, but before leaving, Engfa kissed her cheek, her eyes filled with happiness.

"I have a surprise for you, my love," Engfa whispered, her voice warm and full of affection.

Charlotte smiled brightly, her eyes sparkling.

"You always know how to surprise me. I'm looking forward to something special today."

"Just wait a little longer, and you'll see. I promise to take you somewhere secret this evening," Engfa replied, her eyes twinkling with joy.

Charlotte entered the café, unaware that a surprise awaited her inside. Marima and the café staff had prepared a small party to celebrate her birthday. As she walked in, everyone began singing happy birthday. Marima wheeled out a large birthday cake in front of Charlotte, adorned with bright sunflowers, just like the cake Engfa had made. Charlotte was so touched that she was speechless; she blew out the candles, sharing her joy with friends on this special day.

"Happy Birthday, Charlotte! You deserve all the best things in life," Marima said, her eyes shining.

Charlotte smiled, her eyes misty with emotion.

"Thank you all so much. This is a day I will never forget."

In the afternoon, Engfa finished her work and headed to a luxurious riverside restaurant. This was the place she had chosen for Charlotte's birthday celebration and where she planned to propose. The restaurant overlooked the wide river, with sunlight reflecting on the water like sparkling diamonds. Engfa had arranged decorations in shades of emerald and pale yellow, creating a warm, serene atmosphere that matched her feelings for Charlotte. Lanterns hung gently, casting a starlit glow over the space. Tables were neatly set, draped in white cloths, with fresh flowers and candlelight illuminating everything. Every detail was thoughtfully prepared, making everything perfect.

Engfa walked around the restaurant, adjusting a few things here and there, constantly checking her watch. She eagerly awaited the moment Charlotte would arrive, envisioning it as a perfect dream.

Meanwhile, Charlotte was still at the café, enjoying the celebration with friends but sensing something special awaiting her. Happiness filled her heart, but she couldn't stop thinking about Engfa, feeling that today was somehow extraordinary.

When Engfa left the restaurant, she sent Charlotte a short message:

"I love you very much. Just wait a moment, I have a big surprise for you."

The sky had begun to darken, the night falling like a black veil over the city. Engfa drove with a gentle joy and anticipation, ready to pick up Charlotte for their special dinner. Each second brought her closer to the surprises and plans she had made. But no one could foresee that this night would turn into a tragedy that would haunt her forever.

Suddenly, a truck surged out from the adjacent lane without any prior signal. Engfa had no time to react, and her car veered quickly toward the roadside.

Bammmm!

A terrifying crash rang out, tearing through the air, plunging everything around into pitch-black darkness. Engfa felt a heavy blow to her head, her body jolted backward. Pain spread through her entire body, as if thousands of needles were piercing every muscle. Everything around became chaotic, the car swaying before coming to a halt amid a pile of wreckage.

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"Who knows, just when we think happiness is within reach, destiny might prepare an unexpected parting." - Hy