Zian and Zahir stood in the art room of the campus, their eyes fixed on the canvas that Liam had presented to them. The painting was an abstract explosion of colours and shapes, and neither brother could quite make sense of it. They exchanged a weird glance, both trying to suppress their laughter."So, Liam, this... masterpiece is supposed to represent your love for Zada?" Zahir broke the silence with a sarcastic grin.“Yes, it is. Every brushstroke is filled with emotion and meaning." Liam, sensing the sarcasm, straightened up defensively. Zian raised an eyebrow, struggling to hold back a chuckle. "Really? Because all I see is a mess of colours. How exactly does this express love?" Zian asked curiously, trying to suppress his mirth.Liam took a deep breath, trying to maintain his composure. "You see, love isn't something you can always define clearly. It's abstract, like this painting. The red symbolises passion, the blue represents calmness and trust, and the intertwining lines
The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as the group assembled at the base of the mountain. The morning air was crisp and cool, a stark contrast to the nervous excitement buzzing among them. Liam, looking both determined and slightly overwhelmed, had a map in one hand and a checklist in the other."Alright, everyone," Liam began, trying to project confidence. "I have got the route planned out. It should take us about four hours to reach the top, with a couple of breaks along the way.""Sounds good, Captain Fredrick! Lead the way!" Zahir clapped him on the back, nearly knocking the map out of his hands. "Yeah, just make sure you don’t lead us into a bear’s den or something." Zian said grinning, adjusting his backpack. Liam rolled his eyes but smiled. "Don’t worry, I double-checked the route. No bears, just beautiful scenery and a good workout."Emma, Emily, Emil, Izzy and Zada all fell in line, with Zada giving Liam an encouraging nod. "You have got this, Liam. We belie
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the group reached their designated campsite. The sky was painted with hues of orange and pink, casting a serene glow over the mountain. They had worked hard to get there, and now it was time to set up camp for the night.Liam clapped his hands together, rallying everyone. "Alright, folks, let’s set up the tents before it gets too dark. We’ve got four tents, so two people per tent."Zian nodded and looked at the bags. "Let’s get to it. We need to set up a fire too; it’s going to get cold quickly."Emma and Zian paired off, working together to pitch their tent near the centre of the campsite. Zada and Liam set up another tent nearby, with Izzy, Emil and Emily taking the spot just a bit further off. Zahir, who was clearly still brimming with energy, volunteered to help with everyone’s setup.As they worked, the first stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky. The tents were finally up, and the group turned their attention to gathering wood f
The kiss between Zahir and Emily intensified, their shared warmth becoming a refuge from the biting cold. As their lips moved against each other with increasing fervour, the boundaries between them blurred, their desires taking over. The cold air in the treehouse heightened their senses, making every touch, every breath feel electrified, as if the chill outside only fueled the fire between them.Zahir’s hand slid up Emily’s back, his fingers curling around the nape of her neck as he deepened the kiss. Emily responded eagerly, her hands gripping his jacket, pulling him closer. She could feel his heart pounding in sync with hers, the rhythm mirroring the escalating passion between them."Emily," Zahir murmured against her lips, his voice rough with desire, "you are driving me crazy.""Good," Emily whispered back smugly, her breath warm against his cheek. "That makes two of us."Their lips met again, more fervent, more desperate this time. Zahir’s hands found the hem of Emily’s shirt, an
The morning light filtered through the cracks in the treehouse, casting a soft glow over the two figures entwined in sleep. Zahir was the first to wake, his eyes slowly focusing on the unfamiliar surroundings. He blinked, the events of the previous night flooding back to him. His arm was wrapped around Emily, their bodies pressed together for warmth, their clothes scattered around them.Zahir’s heart raced as he looked down at Emily, still asleep, her hair tousled and her expression peaceful. He felt a mix of emotions — confusion, regret, and a lingering desire that he couldn’t quite shake off. But before he could dwell on it, Emily stirred, her eyes fluttering open.Emily quickly realised the situation. Her face flushed as she noticed their dishevelled state, the remnants of their heated encounter evident. She sat up abruptly, pulling away from Zahir and reaching for her clothes.“This doesn’t mean anything,” Emily said, her voice haughty as she hastily pulled on her shirt, her movem
The university campus was buzzing with excitement as Confluence 2024, the much-anticipated inter-university cultural and sports fest, kicked into high gear. Students from across the country had gathered for the five-day extravaganza, representing universities from all corners of the nation. Banners fluttered in the breeze, music echoed through the halls, and the energy in the air was palpable.On the sprawling grounds, clusters of students were gathered, some rehearsing their dance routines for the cultural performances, while others cheered for their favourite teams in various sports events. The main stage had become a hub of creativity, showcasing vibrant dance battles, dramatic theatre performances, and soulful musical competitions. Everywhere you looked, there was an explosion of colour—students dressed in beautiful attires for the cultural events while athletes wore their team jerseys with pride.In the sports arenas, fierce competitions were underway, from football, basketball
“Aaron..” Emily screamed in excitement and ran towards him as soon as she spotted him.“Em, my darling..” Aaron called out and opened his arms wide for her. Emily jumped into his arms and Aaron twirled her around, both of them laughing with abandon.Zahir's eyes narrowed as he watched Aaron twirl Emily around in his arms, their laughter ringing out like some kind of twisted melody in his ears. He crossed his arms, glaring at the scene as if his sheer annoyance alone could pry them apart."What is this guy, a human merry-go-round?" He muttered under his breath, his fingers tapping impatiently against his biceps. He wasn’t even sure why it bothered him so much. It’s not like he had any claim over Emily. Still, something about seeing her wrapped up in Aaron’s embrace made his blood boil.Liam, standing beside him, glanced over and smirked. "You alright there, Zahir? You’re staring pretty hard." Liam teased and Zahir scoffed, trying to sound indifferent. "Who, me? I am fine. Just... won
“Aaron, did you recognise who this is?” Emily asked, pointing at Zada who was silent until now.Aaron looked at the beautiful girl and his eyes lit up in a way it hadn’t when he saw Emily or Emma. Liam clearly noted it and his jaws clenched in anger.“Aaron, do you remember me?” Zada asked with a soft smile. Liam scowled seeing Zada smiling at Aaron.“Does anybody ever forget their first love?” Aaron asked and Zada didn’t expect such a response from him.“What the f*ck!” Liam slammed his palm on the table startling everyone.The sound of Liam’s palm slamming down on the table reverberated through the air, catching everyone off guard. Even Zada flinched slightly, her eyes widening in surprise as she glanced at Liam, who was now glaring daggers at Aaron.“What the hell, man?!" Liam's voice was a mix of disbelief and anger, his nostrils flaring like an enraged bull. "First love? Like seriously!”Aaron, completely unfazed by the sudden outburst, raised an eyebrow and grinned, clearly enjo
"I, Zahir Ahmed al Zidra, hereby accept my role as the ruling Sheikh of the Sultanate of Zidra. I shall continue to preserve, and build upon the royal legacy and shall reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the people forever." Zahir vowed, as he stood on the podium, with his right palm over his chest and his eyes staring straight ahead at the people of Zidra.It was the coronation ceremony. Zahir Ahmed al Zidra was getting felicitated as the next ruling Sheikh of Arabian Nation if Zidra!"I invite everyone here to share my determination and work together for the nation’s prosperity and the people’s happiness as the ultimate goals," Zahir added, his voice resonating with passion, instilling a sense of hope and anticipation among the people of Zidra.His brothers and sisters were standing on either side as he made his vows to his nation and his people.The security has been strengthened as there were many people attending the ceremony, including dignitaries from the
Though Zian and Emma were recently married, they had fallen into a comfortable rhythm together, their lives woven in a way that complemented each other. Zian now led the Ahmed family’s business side with his characteristic calm and precision, steering it toward expansion with a confident hand. Meanwhile, Emma had tried her hand at a few things, but as Zian often teased, she had the attention span of a toddler. Her parents, relieved that she’d at least completed her education, had stopped expecting her to settle into any traditional career.Knowing her gifts lay elsewhere, Zian suggested she join the Ahmeds’ charity organisation. Rather than dealing with finances or administrative work, he assigned her something more hands-on. Three days a week, Emma visited palliative care homes and orphanages, spending her time cheering up the residents with her infectious charm and boundless stories. Zian knew she could lift anyone’s spirits with her words, and she eagerly embraced the chance to
FEW YEARS LATERLiam and Zada are thriving both in their personal and professional lives. Liam, now the CEO of an international technology solutions firm, stands confidently at the helm of his father’s company, overseeing its global expansion. His hard-earned MBA and years of dedication have paid off, establishing him as a respected leader in the field. Meanwhile, Zada has become a celebrated children’s author, her debut book ‘Mirrie the Mythical Horse’ marking the start of her rise to fame. Inspired by her storytelling talents, she continues to capture young readers' imaginations with her enchanting tales and thoughtful messages. Her latest book, praised as a classic in children’s literature, reflects her journey and growth over the years.Sunlight streamed through the windows of their cosy home, casting a warm glow over the morning routine as Liam and Zada hurried to prepare their daughter for her first day of kindergarten admission.Liam knelt beside his daughter, smoothing out t
One month later, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the campus as the group gathered on the sprawling lawn. The last month had been an unforgettable journey, filled with laughter, embarrassment, bonding, and countless challenges. But tonight, they had all agreed, was for celebration—a proper farewell to the antics that had drawn them all closer.Liam, of course, had been the master of ceremonies for this whole ordeal, and he looked especially smug as he watched Zahir and Zian reluctantly serve drinks, their expressions caught somewhere between exasperation and amusement.“You know, I think I am going to miss this,” Liam said, taking a glass from Zahir and winking. “Seeing you two bow down to me—it’s been... enlightening.”“Trust me,” Zahir shot back with a grin, “you have enjoyed this way more than anybody did. But don’t get too used to it, Liam. As soon as today ends, we are going back to normal.”“Oh, really?” Liam laughed, leaning back in his chair. “I d
“I am not a bloody playboy…” Zahir screamed at the end of his wits, leaving everyone in the room other than Zian, Zada and Izzy shocked by his declaration.“What???” It was Liam’s voice that rang out more loudly. Zada gave him an elbow jab asking him to shut up.“Listen, Emily. I am not a playboy. I have never been one. The only girl in my life is you. When I was five, it was only you. And now when I am twenty, it is only you.” Zahir said, looking earnestly into Emily’s eyes.She looked at him suspiciously.“Stop lying.” Emil said coldly.“He is not lying, Emil.” It was Izzy who spoke. “What?”“He is not a playboy. He is plain stupid. He has this dumb belief that if he has this playboy image, it would make him more popular. He is only dumb, not a playboy.” Izzy said and Zahir glared at her.“What? I am only telling the truth. Who would do such stupidities like you do?” Izzy asked with a shrug.“What makes you so sure?” Emil challenged and Izzy smiled.“Remember the truth or dare game
Silence filled Emily’s room as she lay curled up in Zahir’s arms, savouring the warmth and closeness between them. They had finally let their walls down and the silence that hung between them now felt intimate, peaceful."If you say that this doesn't mean a thing..." Zahir trailed off, his voice a low, warning murmur as he brushed a hand through her hair, his eyes locked onto hers.Emily laughed softly, resting her head on his chest. "You are mine, Emily Langston," he whispered possessively."And you are mine, Zahir Ahmed," She whispered back, equally possessive.Zahir smirked, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. He loved how she was never intimidated by him, always ready to challenge him, push back, stand toe-to-toe. They lay there for a moment, wrapped up in each other, enjoying a rare, unguarded moment. But suddenly, the sound of the front door opening and footsteps approaching the living room startled them out of their reverie.Emily quickly pulled the blanket up, her eyes wide
The months seemed to fly by, drawing Zada and Liam, Zian and Emma, and Izzy and Emil closer together. Each of their love stories blossomed, surrounded by the easy warmth and laughter of new romance and friendship. But for Zahir and Emily, it was a different story. Their undeniable attraction was as strong as ever, but neither would admit to the feelings simmering beneath. Yet, every chance they got, they would find themselves in each other's arms, their moments of intimacy full of tension and passion. And each time, they would pull away, murmuring the same words: ‘It doesn’t mean anything.’One evening, they were at the apartment the girls share after a gettogether. The others had left in couples, for some ‘couple time’, leaving Emily and Zahir alone. The air was thick with an unspoken tension, an electric charge that always seemed to grow whenever they were alone."Are you seriously going to that party with that guy?" Zahir asked abruptly, his voice laced with irritation. Emily shot
“By the way, Mr Ahmed, what shampoo and conditioner do you use?” Madison asked, looking admiringly at Zayed’s slightly long hair.“MOM!” Liam exclaimed in shock. He turned to his mom with pleading eyes.“What? I just wanted to know..” Madison said innocently. “Please keep a control on your tongue, mom. Don’t scare them away on the very first day.” Liam whispered to his mother in a pleading tone, earning a glare in return.“LIAM FREDRICK! How could you say that to your Momma? The momma who carried you inside her womb for nine months? The momma who changed your dirty diapers when you were a kid? The momma who kissed your boo boo’s away?” Madison asked, hands on her hips. She was fired up.Liam closed his eyes in disbelief. They were supposed to impress the Ahmeds. Not scare them off.Zayed and Salim exchanged a glance.“How the hell did we land here? Now there would be nothing stopping Cami and Ava. This woman seems just like them. They are going to get on like a house on fire.” Salim
The air was buzzing with anticipation as Liam paced the living room, stealing quick glances toward the front windows. The Ahmed family would be arriving soon, and he could already feel his nerves bubbling up. Outside, Madison Fredrick was bustling around the backyard, setting up for the barbecue. With her usual over-the-top excitement, she darted from one setup station to another, adjusting tables and setting out colourful plates.Madison, practically glowing with enthusiasm, called out, “Liam! Have you checked if the Ahmeds have landed yet? Oh, this is so exciting! Imagine having all of them over here!”“Yes, Mom, they landed just a bit ago. Zada, Zahir, and Zian went to pick them up and they have a stop by to freshen up after the long journey.” Liam chuckled at his mom’s energy. “Perfect!” Madison clapped her hands, her gaze already scanning the backyard. “We have the best setup! Michael is handling the grill, Chloe’s setting up the drinks station, and I have already got everyone