WHISPERS OF LINGORM : A One-Shot Anthology - Chapter 11: Chapter 11

"Ladies and gentlemen, we've arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok. Please remain seated until the seatbelt sign is turned off. Thank you for flying with us."
But Orm? Orm was dead to the world. Her eyes remained shut, her head lolled slightly to one side, and she snored softly, blissfully unaware that the plane had landed. She wasn't tired-oh no. Orm had been sleeping ever since the flight left San Francisco. Rest? She had gotten more than enough. But waking up? Apparently, that was a task too monumental for her.
Beside her, Becky let out a dramatic sigh, already used to her best friend's "sleep till eternity" routine. She shook Orm lightly by the shoulder.
"Orm, wake up! You Snorlax, we're in Bangkok! Get up!"
No response. Not even a twitch. Becky rolled her eyes and muttered, "You brought this upon yourself," before grabbing a bottle of water and splashing it on Orm's face.
Orm shot up like a jack-in-the-box, her eyes wide and wild. "What the hell-?!" she gasped, looking around as though she had just been teleported to a parallel universe.
It took her a few seconds to realize where she was: her business class cabin on the flight from New York to Bangkok. She turned to Becky, her face a mix of outrage and disbelief.
"Are you insane?! What is wrong with you? Who does that?!"
Becky, completely unfazed, grinned. "You do know this is the only way to wake you up, right? Now stop complaining. We've landed. Let's go, Sleeping Beauty."
Still grumbling under her breath, Orm grabbed her bag, muttering threats about revenge. Becky just laughed, clearly not taking any of it seriously.
At the airport exit, they spotted a driver holding a placard with their names. Orm marched up to him, dragging her suitcase dramatically behind her. She stopped in front of the driver, dropped her bag with a thud, and sighed loudly.
"Handle this, I'm too exhausted," she said, flipping her hair for added effect.
Becky, walking up behind her, snorted. "Exhausted? From what? Breathing?"
Orm ignored her and continued toward the car like she was walking a runway. The driver looked at Becky, but she just shook her head. "She's always like this. Don't ask."
Becky handed over her luggage but carried her smaller bag herself, waving off the driver's help.
Meanwhile, Orm was already sprawled on the backseat, scrolling through Instagram like a celebrity on a break.
When Becky slid in beside her, Orm gave her a once-over. "Took you long enough."
Becky rolled her eyes. "I was too busy being a functioning adult. You should try it sometime."
"Functioning adults look tired and old. I look fabulous," Orm replied, flipping her hair again.
Becky smirked. "You look like a wet cat, thanks to me."
Orm cursed, "Fuck You!"
"And yet, you still love me," Becky said with a grin.
She leaned back, shaking her head. "I can't believe I'm best friend with someone who acts like she owns the world."
Orm looked over her sunglasses and grinned. "Own it? Darling, I rule it."
And the engine started....
Alright, let me introduce you to Orm and Becky while they make their way home......
Meet Orm Kornnaphat Sethratanapong, a 22-year-old who could easily be the poster girl for "rich, gorgeous, and knows it all." She's not just any girl-she's the only daughter of the Sethratanapong family, one of Thailand's most elite clans that regularly feature on the Top 50 Wealthiest Families in Thailand list every year effortlessly. With this legacy comes the lifestyle you'd expect: mansions, luxury vacations, and more designer bags than she can count. But Orm isn't just rich as hell-she's got an attitude to match.
Born and raised in Thailand, Orm lived her early years like a princess. And no, that's not an exaggeration. Her parents practically treat her like a princess of thailand, and her tantrums? Let's just say they're well-practiced. But there's more to Orm than her high-maintenance persona. After high school, she moved to America to attend none other than Stanford University, where she completed a prestigious degree in International Business with a minor in Dance (because one talent isn't enough, obviously). Her four years there weren't just about academics; she made sure to dazzle on the dance floor and maintain her reputation as the life of every party.
Now, having graduated with flying colors, Orm is back in Thailand, ready to pick up where she left off: living her best life and claiming her spot as Thailand's ultimate it-girl. Talented, beautiful, and with a knack for making every situation about herself, Orm truly is a masterpiece in her own right.
And then there's Becky, Orm's childhood best friend and the only person who knows how to handle orm's tantrums. Like Orm, Becky comes from a wealthy family that's always been close to the Sethratanapongs. Their bond was practically inevitable-two rich kids growing up side by side, sharing everything from toys to secrets. Becky, however, is a little different. Where Orm is dramatic and demanding, Becky is level-headed and sharp-tongued. She's the kind of girl who can carry her own bags and still make it look classy.
But don't be fooled-Becky has her tantrums too. Just slightly less extreme than Orm's. While Orm's the one tossing orders left and right, Becky's the one rolling her eyes and getting things done. Together, they balance each other out, creating a duo that's equal parts chaos and charm.
As soon as Orm stepped into her lavish home, she rushed through the grand entrance, calling out, "Mom! Dad! I'm back!" Her voice echoed through the huge foyer, as though announcing the return of princess.
Becky, following closely behind, didn't make as much of a scene. Her bag was slung casually over her shoulder, her expression a little more relaxed than Orm's dramatic arrival. She had planned to stay with Orm for the night, a rare break from her own family. She didn't need to be anywhere else today.
Orm's parents, as graceful and elegant as always, appeared from the living room. Orm immediately rushed to them, giving them a tight hug, her face lighting up with the kind of affection she only showed her parents. "I missed you so much!" she exclaimed, her voice full of genuine sweetness.
Becky stood back, giving them a casual wave. "Hey there, uncle aunty, how are you?" she said, slipping inside. She and Orm's family were close, but she wasn't about to throw herself into the spotlight like Orm did.
Orm's dad smiled, his face filled with warmth. "Welcome home, sweetheart. We've missed you. And Becky dear welcome home"
Orm, still in her mother's arms, sighed dramatically. "I don't think I could've lasted another second in that cold San Francisco weather. It's like my body froze solid. This place is heaven," she said with a pout.
Becky, rolling her eyes but with a smile on her lips, teased, "You were not frozen, Orm. You're just being dramatic."
Orm shot her a playful glare. "I wasn't! I swear, I was turning into a human popsicle."
Becky chuckled. "Sure,"
Orm's mom laughed, wrapping her arm around her daughter. "You two are something else. But it's good to have you back, You've been missed."
Orm gave a satisfied nod. "I'm home now, and that's all that matters," she declared.
Becky, leaning against the doorframe with her arms crossed, added with a smirk, "I'm just here for the food. If it's anything like the last time I stayed here, I know it'll be amazing."
Orm shot her a look, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Are you implying your family doesn't feed you well at home?"
"No," Becky replied with a teasing grin, "I'm implying your family knows how to spoil me, just like you. I'm practically royalty in this house."
Orm's dad chuckled. "We try, dear, we try."
"Don't worry, dad" Orm interjected with a wink, "I'll make sure there's enough for everyone. And maybe, I'll let Bec have a bite too."
Becky threw her hands up in mock surrender. "Oh, how generous of you" she said, making Orm laugh.
Orm's parents exchanged smiles, obviously used to their playful dynamic. Orm's mom kissed her cheek and led her into the living room, while Becky followed, her smile never fading.
Orm and Becky reached Orm's room, they both collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the journey. Orm flopped back dramatically, her body sinking into the plush mattress, while Becky did the same beside her. They both let out long, deep sighs of relief.
"Finally, we are home," Orm said, her voice full of contentment as she stretched out. Becky, mirroring her exact tone, added, "Finally," and they both shared a brief laugh, catching their breath in perfect synchrony. It was a small, simple moment of peace after the trip.
Orm turned to Becky with a mischievous smile. "By the way, we're going to the Kwong Royal Palace for dinner tonight."
Becky raised an eyebrow. "What? Why? You've barely gotten off the plane, and now you're going out for dinner?"
Orm shrugged with a playful grin. "Yep, got invited by a guy. It's just a casual thing. I'm time-passing with him, really. No big deal."
Becky blinked in disbelief. "A date? You're going out with a guy you've barely talked to?"
Orm waved her hand dismissively. "It's not about that. The Kwong Royal Palace is where we're going. You know, the place that blends Thai tradition and modern luxury? It's a five-star hotel and it has this royal vibe that's hard to beat. Plus, it's all about the food and the atmosphere, not some date."
Becky stared at her, rolling her eyes but ultimately agreeing. "Alright, alright. I'll come. But I'm not holding back my sarcasm if this guy is as annoying as I think he'll be."
As Orm stepped into the magnificent Kwong Royal Palace, her eyes sparkled with excitement. Ever since she had seen this palace on Instagram, she had been eager to visit. Listed among Thailand's most visited and influential landmarks, this place was a perfect blend of rich tradition and modernity, a masterpiece in itself. Orm loved discovering such unique places, not just for the thrill but also for the inevitable flex on social media as an influencer.
But her thrill was slightly dimmed by the reality of her current company-a man who was unbearably boring and overly talkative. The real mistake was agreeing to come here on his invitation instead of visiting on their own. Now, she and Becky were stuck, rolling their eyes in sync as he rambled on.
Sitting at their table, Orm and Becky exchanged subtle glances, their unspoken language working effortlessly. They both wanted to escape but couldn't find the right opportunity. Then, Orm noticed a waiter approaching with drinks, and an idea sparked in her mind. She nudged Becky with her elbow, giving her a knowing look.
Becky smirked, catching on instantly. As the waiter leaned forward to serve Orm, Becky casually extended her foot, lightly tripping him. The tray tilted, and a small splash of the drink landed on Orm's designer dress.
"What the hell!" Orm shot up from her seat, glaring at the waiter with a mix of anger and disbelief. "Are you out of your mind? What is wrong with you?!"
The waiter stammered, bowing his head repeatedly in apology. "I'm so sorry, ma'am. It...it was an accident."
"An accident?!" Orm snapped, her voice growing louder. "Do you even know how to do your job? This is supposed to be a five-star hotel, and this is the kind of service you offer?!"
Becky, trying to hold back her laughter, pressed her lips together and avoided Orm's gaze. The situation was hilarious to her-the waiter's mortified face and Orm's fiery outburst were comedy gold. But she also felt a bit bad for the guy and made a mental note to tip him generously later.
Their date, meanwhile, sat frozen in place, too intimidated to speak up.
Just then, a calm yet commanding voice cut through the tension. "What is going on here?"
All eyes turned toward the source of the voice. A stunning woman stood a few feet away, her suit perfectly complementing her regal aura. She was surrounded by a group of people who looked just as serious and polished as she did.
The waiter, recognizing her immediately, bowed and stepped aside without a word.
Orm, still fuming, whipped her head toward the newcomer. Their eyes met for a fleeting moment, and something about her calm, piercing gaze made Orm falter. The woman looked her up and down, a hint of disdain in her expression, before speaking again.
"What happened Miss?, why are you shouting at staff?"
Orm snapped back, her fiery attitude undeterred. "And who the hell are you to ask?"
The room collectively gasped. Eyes widened in shock and disbelief.
"Oh, got it," Orm continued, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You must be the manager here. Well, let me tell you, your service is trash. Absolute garbage. Is this how you run things? No wonder your staff can't even carry a tray properly!"
The woman's secretary stepped forward, ready to respond, but the woman raised her hand, silencing her effortlessly. She said nothing, her eyes fixed on Orm with an intensity that made everyone else in the room uneasy, let alone orm.
Noticing no response, Orm scoffed dramatically. "Come on, Becky," she said, grabbing her friend's arm. "Let's get out of this joke of a hotel. Bloody Pathetic Palace!"
As they stormed out, the room remained eerily silent. The crowd, including the staff, exchanged wide-eyed glances, unsure how to react.
The woman remained still, her hands casually resting in her pockets as she watched them leave. After a moment, she turned to her secretary.
"Do I look like a manager?"
Her secretary instantly shook her head. "Not at all, ma'am."
LINGLING SIRILAK KWONG -the royal princess of Thailand, sole heir to the Kwong family fortune, and future queen-sighed, running a hand through her hair.
"So why did that girl think I was?" she asked
Her secretary hesitated. "No, but...I should have told her that you're not the manager but the owner of this palace."
Ling let out a deep sigh. "She wasn't exactly in the mood to listen, was she?"
The secretary adjusted her glasses.
"Sorry ma'am but, this is exactly why these young adults don't recognize you easily. You've completely avoided social media, and you don't even allow us to announce your visits to the palace! It makes it difficult for people to realize that you're not just the owner of this palace, but also the princess and future queen of Thailand, until they hear your name."
Ling rolled her eyes.
"Yeah, because I want to keep a low profile. But this... this is ridiculous."
She adjusted her suit, brushing off an invisible speck of dust.
"Does this look like a manager's uniform to you?"
Her secretary shook her head. "Not at all, ma'am."
Ling frowned. "Then why the hell did that brat think so?"
Her secretary tried to suppress a chuckle. "Maybe because she was too busy shouting to notice anything else."
Ling scoffed. "I absolutely cannot stand spoiled rich brats like her. No respect. No manners."
"Yes, ma'am" the secretary replied simply.
As Ling started walking toward the inner chambers of the palace, she muttered,
"Tell the royal tailor she is fired. And bring me a new designer by tomorrow!"
Her entourage followed silently, bowing their heads slightly as they walked.
But in her mind, Ling's thoughts kept circling back to Orm's audacity.
Manager? Really?