Chapter 14: Back to Business

The morning in Nam was peaceful, but inside Pin's house, the air still carried the weight of unspoken words from last night.

Pin woke up earlier than usual, determined to keep her focus on work rather than Arin's presence. She moved to the kitchen and started making breakfast, keeping her mind occupied.

Just as she was pouring coffee, Arin's voice broke the silence.

"Morning."

Pin didn't turn around. "Set the table."

Arin smirked but obeyed. As they ate, the silence stretched between them.

Arin finally spoke. "Poly must be relieved that we're back."

Pin nodded. "We'll check on things today."

Arin raised an eyebrow. "Wow, we actually agree on something."

Pin rolled her eyes. "Don't get used to it."

After breakfast, they got ready and headed to the project site. The ride was mostly silent, though Arin kept sneaking glances at Pin, who pretended not to notice.

When they arrived, Poly was waiting outside, arms crossed.

"Took you both long enough," she said. "I was starting to think you ran away together."

Arin smirked. "Not a bad idea."

Pin shot her a look before turning to Poly. "Thanks for keeping things in order. Any issues?"

Poly sighed. "Just the usual. Investors need updates, and some staff are slacking off since they think no one's watching."

Pin nodded. "I'll take care of it."

Poly turned to Arin. "And you? Still causing trouble?"

Arin grinned. "Always."

Poly shook her head. "Well, at least you're useful. We need to finalize the supplier contracts today."

They split up to handle their respective tasks.

Pin spent the morning dealing with project delays, meeting with team leads, and pushing for faster progress. Despite being strict, she earned the team's respect for her sharp decision-making.

Arin, on the other hand, handled negotiations. Watching her work, Pin had to admit—Arin had a way with people. She was persuasive, confident, and could turn any conversation in her favor.

Hours passed quickly. By late afternoon, they reconvened.

Poly handed Pin a report. "Everything's on track now. But we still have some issues with local suppliers."

Arin leaned back. "I can talk to them."

Pin glanced at her. "And convince them to cooperate?"

Arin smirked. "You know I can."

Pin sighed. "Fine. Do it."

Arin saluted playfully. "Yes, boss."

Pin ignored her.

As the sun began to set, they finally wrapped up for the day.

Poly stretched. "Let's grab dinner. My treat."

Pin hesitated. Spending more time around Arin outside of work? Not ideal.

But before she could refuse, Arin spoke. "I'm in."

Pin sighed. "Fine."

Poly smirked. "See? You two can agree on something after all."

Pin didn't respond. She just walked ahead, pretending the warmth in her chest didn't mean anything.

Arin, following behind, smiled to herself.

Little by little, she was breaking through.