Between Us || LINGORM

Chapter 26: A Sweet Introduction

Orm could barely sit still. Her fingers drummed nervously on the dining table as she cast a glance at the clock for the tenth time in five minutes. Mae Koy had been in the kitchen, humming a tune as she prepared her famous green curry, completely unfazed by Orm's jittery state.

"Mae," Orm called, her voice just a little too loud. "You sure this isn't too casual? I mean, Lingling probably expects something more...formal."

Mae Koy appeared at the doorway, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "Orm Kornnaphat, I've been hosting dinners since before you could spell your name. Your Lingling will be just fine."

Orm opened her mouth to protest but was interrupted by the sound of a car pulling up outside. Her heart jumped to her throat as she stood abruptly, nearly knocking her chair over.

Lingling stepped into the house, dressed in tailored black pants and a crisp white blouse that exuded confidence. She carried a small bouquet of lilies, her calm demeanor a stark contrast to Orm's visible nervousness.

"Lingling!" Orm practically tripped over herself rushing to the door.

"Relax, Orm," Lingling said softly, her voice soothing as she handed her the flowers. "These are for your mother."

Mae Koy emerged with a warm smile, wiping her hands on her apron. "Ah, you must be Lingling. I've heard so much about you."

Lingling stepped forward, bowing politely. "It's an honor to meet you, Mae Koy. Thank you for inviting me into your home."

Orm watched in awe as Lingling handled herself with grace. Despite her composed exterior, Orm caught the subtle way Lingling's eyes darted around, taking in the warmth of the family home.

"Come in, come in!" Mae Koy ushered them to the table, her energy filling the room.

Dinner was a blend of laughter and quiet moments of connection. Mae Koy, with her theatrical flair, regaled Lingling with stories of Orm's childhood.

"She used to run around pretending to be a superhero," Mae Koy said with a chuckle, ignoring Orm's groan of embarrassment. "One time, she tied a blanket around her neck as a cape and tried to 'fly' off the sofa."

Lingling's lips curled into a small smile as she turned to Orm. "That explains a lot," she teased, her tone light yet commanding.

Orm's cheeks turned pink, but she couldn't deny how much she loved the way Lingling fit seamlessly into this part of her life.

As the evening progressed, Mae Koy shifted the conversation to Lingling's life. "And what about you, Lingling? Orm tells me you're quite the musician."

Lingling's expression softened. "I've been playing guitar since I was young. It's a way for me to express myself when words don't come easily."

Mae Koy nodded, her eyes gleaming with approval. "You seem like someone who keeps a lot inside, but I can tell you're good for Orm. She needs someone to keep her grounded."

Orm looked at Lingling, who met her gaze with a rare vulnerability. "She keeps me grounded too," Lingling admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Mae Koy's smile grew. "I see that. You two balance each other beautifully."

After dinner, Mae Koy left them alone in the living room. Orm, finally relaxing, turned to Lingling. "So...what do you think?"

Lingling leaned back on the sofa, her poised demeanor still intact. "Your mother is wonderful. I can see where you get your warmth."

Orm's eyes widened. "You...think I'm warm?"

Lingling tilted her head, her lips quirking up into a smirk. "Most of the time. When you're not being insufferable."

"Hey!" Orm protested, lightly nudging her.

Lingling chuckled, her laugh soft but genuine. She reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind Orm's ear. "Thank you for inviting me here. It means a lot."

Orm felt her breath catch. Lingling's hand lingered for a moment before she pulled away, her dominant presence still radiating even in the quiet moment.

Later that night, as Lingling prepared to leave, Mae Koy took her hand. "You're welcome here anytime, Lingling. Take care of my daughter, okay?"

Lingling nodded, her grip firm. "I will. You have my word."

As Lingling and Orm stood by the car, Orm hesitated before speaking. "So...you didn't find it too casual?"

Lingling shook her head, her gaze steady. "It was perfect. I've never felt so welcomed."

Orm smiled, her nerves finally dissipating. "Good. Because I was a mess."

Lingling stepped closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "I noticed. But I like seeing you flustered."

Before Orm could respond, Lingling leaned down, placing a soft, lingering kiss on her forehead. "Goodnight, Orm."

As Lingling drove away, Orm stood there, her heart full.