Chapter 7 Once-close friend

Lydia had so many gifts for her boss and colleagues that she couldn't carry them all onto the bus. Although she had a driver's license, she hadn't considered buying a car since her workplace wasn't far from her home. By coincidence, Parker called her just before she could request a Grab ride. Upon learning of her situation, he quickly offered to pick her up and drop her off at work himself.

“Isn’t your work busy, Parker?” Lydia asked as she settled into the passenger seat of Parker’s pickup truck.

“Not just yet; it’s not time for the appointment,” Parker replied casually. “I can drop you off at work.”

Lydia looked at him, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. “Do you stay around here?”

“No, I’m staying at a hotel. Since I only come to Bangkok every now and then, I don’t see much point in buying a house or a condo,” he explained with a shrug, his tone relaxed and matter of fact.

Lydia considered his words. She knew there was no reason to refuse his kindness, especially since it made her morning a little easier. Parker’s offer to drive her was both generous and thoughtful, and she appreciated the gesture.

As they drove through the bustling streets of Bangkok, Lydia reflected on her work. As an industrial pharmacist, or as people often called her, a factory pharmacist, her job was crucial in ensuring that every stage of production adhered to strict industry standards. It was a demanding role that required precision and vigilance, but Lydia found it rewarding.

She had been contemplating furthering her education in drug research, a subject she had discussed with Joe on several occasions. Joe had always been supportive, encouraging her to pursue her dreams with enthusiasm. His unwavering support had been a source of comfort and motivation for Lydia, making her feel confident about her future.

The truck navigated through the city's traffic, and Lydia glanced at Parker, who was focused on the road. She appreciated how he had taken the time to help her, even though he had his own busy schedule. The drive to her workplace felt shorter with Parker’s company, and she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of gratitude for his thoughtfulness.

As they neared her office, Lydia knew that while her professional life was demanding, the support from those around her made it more manageable. Parker’s unexpected act of kindness was a reminder of the connections she valued and the positive impact they had on her life.

When Lydia thought about her ex, she realized something important. The feelings of comfort and ease she had once experienced were just the norm, nothing extraordinary. But with Parker, it was different. Every time she was with him, she felt a sense of warmth, security, and steadiness that was far more profound. Lately, though, something had shifted. Her feelings had grown more complex, with a fluttering sensation and a racing heartbeat that seemed to be signaling something important. She hadn’t ignored these feelings, but she had chosen not to confront them until now. As time went on, the intensity of her emotions only grew stronger. When she had inadvertently asked about his romantic life, it was perhaps her heart crying out to know more.

Lydia had prepared herself for the inevitable questions that would come her way. After deciding to end her relationship with Joe, she knew she would face these awkward moments. The person she would most likely encounter was ‘Olivia,’ her close friend who had become Joe’s new partner. Lydia had no intention of sharing the full story with anyone; she simply planned to say that the relationship was over without disclosing the details. After all, working in the same place as Olivia meant that they would inevitably cross paths.

As Parker helped Lydia carry her things inside, he exchanged his id card with the security. To other people, it might have looked like he was just a delivery person, as Lydia seldom drove and usually took the bus.

“Sorry to trouble you so much,” Lydia said with genuine concern. Parker, with his tall, muscle, and perfect body as he walked through the office. Dressed in a dark plaid shirt, black jeans, and sneakers, he looked like he had just stepped off the farm, a stark contrast to the typical office attire.

“It’s no trouble at all,” Parker replied with a reassuring smile. “Since I’m in Bangkok, I might as well lend a hand. But once I head back, I won’t be able to help out.” He placed the basket of gifts on the desk where Lydia had directed.

“Thank you, Parker. Oh, and when you’re finished with your work, please give me a call. I’d like to treat you to a meal,” she said, a hint of anticipation in her voice.

“Absolutely, I’ll call you for sure,” he said, his smile widening as he affectionately ruffled her hair—a gesture that reminded her of the days when he used to drop her off at school.

The close interaction between them drew curious glances from Lydia’s colleagues, though no one dared to comment. It was only after Parker, the strikingly tall figure, had left that her coworkers gathered around her, eager to hear more.

“Who was that handsome guy?” one of Lydia’s colleagues asked, her eyes still following Parker’s retreating figure.

“Oh, that was Master Parker,” Lydia replied, a hint of pride in her voice. “He’s my uncle.”

“Your uncle? You two seemed very close. I didn’t know you had any other close relatives besides your grandparents who you talk about often.”

“Well, his farm is next to mine. I’ve considered him like an uncle since I was little. He’s here for some business work, so he decided to visit and brought gifts for everyone. Those sweet oranges are from his farm.”

“Wow, so he’s the owner of the orange grove?” The excitement was palpable, and the women in the department let out a chorus of excited squeals.

Lydia, smiling at their enthusiasm, handed out the gifts and carried the largest basket of fruit over to her department head.

Lydia returned to the office, where her boss greeted her warmly. "You're back, Lydia. So, when’s the big day? Let us know in advance so we can be ready."

Her smile was faint, yet polite. "There won’t be a wedding anymore."

Her boss, who knew the full story before she took leave, simply nodded with understanding.

“What happened? Is there anything I can do to help?” her boss asked, genuine concern in her voice.

Lydia offered a small smile. “No, it’s nothing like that. I just realized we’re better off as friends.” She didn’t want to stir up any drama, especially with Olivia involved. It was best to keep things uncomplicated.

“Well, that’s probably for the best,” her boss replied with a light laugh. “You’re still young—no need to rush into marriage. I didn’t tie the knot until I was thirty.” She then glanced at the basket of oranges. “These look amazing.”

“They’re delicious too,” Lydia said, a note of pride creeping into her voice. “They’re from my... uncle’s farm.”

“Your uncle owns an orange farm?” her boss asked, eyebrows raised in curiosity.

Lydia gave a modest smile, not wanting to seem boastful. She hadn’t meant to brag, but she couldn’t help feeling proud. These oranges weren’t just any fruit—they were from Parker’s farm, carefully cultivated and uniquely sweet. It wasn’t something she could resist sharing.

Her boss, sensing it was a personal matter, didn't press for details. Instead, he assigned her tasks and let her return to work. As Lydia left the office, she found Olivia waiting for her, a coldness in her eyes.

“I noticed everyone else got something, but I didn’t see anything for me,” Olivia remarked, her tone sharp.

“I didn’t think you’d want anything,” Lydia replied, trying to keep her voice steady. Despite their years of friendship, things had changed between them, and Lydia couldn’t bring herself to pretend otherwise.

“If it’s not leftovers, I’ll take whatever’s left,” Olivia retorted, her words dripping with bitterness, her gaze filled with jealousy.

Lydia had once believed Olivia was a true friend, but now, the stark hostility in her words and eyes made her question everything. The friendship they had shared felt like a distant memory, tainted by betrayal and mistrust.

“Olivia, if you like Joe, I’m willing to step aside,” Lydia said, her voice trembling with a mix of disbelief and hurt.

Olivia’s lips curled into a sneer as she took a step closer, her tone dropping to a harsh whisper. "Like him? Please. I’m not interested in anyone’s leftovers."

Lydia’s eyes widened in shock, struggling to process the venom in Olivia’s words. The girl who had once been her closest confidante now stood before her, brimming with resentment.

“I just wanted to take something from you,” Olivia continued, her voice low and sharp. “You’re too naive to see that Joe was only interested in you for your money. Sure, he’s got the looks and the status, but beyond that? There’s not much to brag about. Sex? Mediocre at best. You should be thanking me for saving you from a shallow relationship.”

Lydia felt her heart sink as she realized the depth of Olivia’s betrayal. The friend she had trusted most had turned against her in the cruelest way possible.

Olivia’s lips curled into a sly smile as she reached for a bottle of orange juice from the basket on Lydia's desk. With a casual flick of her wrist, she opened it and, instead of taking a sip, splashed the juice across Lydia.

“Oops!” Olivia exclaimed, her voice a mix of mock surprise and suppressed amusement. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to.”

Lydia’s eyes widened in shock as the sticky liquid soaked through her clothes. The entire office turned their gaze toward her, and Lydia felt the stares as a weight on her shoulders. Silently, she pushed Olivia’s hand away and hurried to the restroom. The juice stains were an inconvenience, but they paled in comparison to the sting of betrayal. The real pain came from the harsh truth that someone she had trusted and believed in could hurt her so coldly.

In the privacy of the restroom, Lydia tried to blot the juice from her clothes, though the task seemed futile. The more she wiped, the more the stain seemed to linger, just as the hurt in her heart refused to fade. Steeling herself, she resolved to finish her workday, fighting to keep her emotions in check.

As the end of the workday approached, her phone rang. It was Parker, calling to let her know he was on his way to pick her up. His voice was a welcome balm to her wounded spirit, offering a glimmer of comfort amidst the turmoil.

Lydia emerged from the building, her movements listless, as if she were summoning all her remaining energy just to reach the waiting car. Parker, spotting her approach, immediately stepped out of the vehicle and walked towards her. The moment he stood next to her, he noticed something was amiss. The disparity in their heights meant he had to lean down slightly to speak to her.

“What happened?”

“Parker,” Lydia blinked up at him, surprised by his direct question. She shook her head, trying to brush off his concern. “It’s nothing.”

“Don’t lie. You looked better this morning. Did someone upset you? Let me handle it.” His tone was stern, and he rolled up his sleeves with a mock-threatening air, which made Lydia laugh despite her distress.

“It’s really not worth bothering about. Just forget it.”

“Is that so? Well, whoever dared to upset my Lydia will have to answer me,” Parker said with a determined look, his expression serious.

“Parker, this isn’t the farm,” Lydia said, trying to keep her voice steady.

“Huh? Why not? No matter where we are, if someone hurts my people, I’ll make sure they suffer a hundred times over!”

He emphasized the word “my” twice, and Lydia had to remind herself to stay composed. He was her uncle, after all. She needed to keep her feelings in check. He was simply showing concern.

“That’s a bit extreme. It’s really nothing to worry about,” she said, trying to downplay the situation. She knew that if she explained what happened, Parker would likely confront Olivia, even though Olivia was a woman. Parker’s sense of justice was strong, and he wasn’t one to shy away from a confrontation. Lydia didn’t want him to go out of his way on her account, especially not for something she saw as a minor, childish incident.

“Parker, I’m hungry. How about we go for some BBQ or shabu?” Lydia suggested.

“Uh…” He hesitated, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow.

“What’s wrong? Do you not eat beef, or are you allergic to anything?” Lydia tilted her head, curious.

“It’s not that at all,” he quickly reassured her before she could jump to any more conclusions. “I’ve just never been to one of those places before. I wouldn’t want to embarrass you.”

“What do you mean?” Lydia asked, her eyes widening in surprise. “You, of all people? I refuse to believe it. You must be joking.”

“No joke,” Parker insisted, laughing softly. “Whenever we want a barbecue, we just fire up the grill at the farm. I’ve never been to a restaurant for one of those. Just think about it—I’d have to rent out the whole place to feed all the workers. It’s far cheaper to cook it ourselves.”

“Never even with friends?” Lydia was curious but still found it hard to believe. Surely, he must have had the experience at least once.

Parker shook his head. “I barely have time to sit down for a meal out. And honestly, I don’t have anyone to go with. It feels a bit strange to dine alone, don’t you think?”

Lydia looked at Parker and nodded with a reassuring smile. “I understand. You don’t have to worry about anything when you’re with me.”

Parker felt a sense of relief seeing Lydia’s smile return. He noticed the stain on her shirt but chose not to press her for details. He knew that if she wasn’t ready to talk, she wouldn’t say anything.

The car was parked across the street from the factory. Parker grasped Lydia’s delicate hand and led her across the road. As she looked up at him, Lydia couldn't help but wonder if he still saw her as a child. After all, he had always been the one to guide her safely when she was young. For Parker, however, holding her hand was a simple pleasure, a cherished connection that felt uniquely special.

In the background, a pair of eyes observed their interaction with a growing sense of discontent. A wicked smile slowly curled at the corners of the observer's lips, followed by a dark plan that began to take shape in their mind.