The cafeteria was buzzing with the usual chatter and energy as the gang hung out at their usual spot. Zahir, Zada, and Zian were laughing and joking about the football match, but something felt off to Zada. She noticed the faint marks on Zahir’s neck that were partially hidden by his collar. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. Zian also followed Zada’s gaze. “Uh, Zahir... what the hell is that on your neck?” He asked, leaning closer, his voice half-serious, half-amused.Zahir’s playful grin didn’t falter. He shrugged casually, adjusting his collar. “What? Nothing, just a bug bite or something,” he said nonchalantly, avoiding their eyes as he reached for his drink.Zada exchanged a look with Zian, clearly not buying his excuse. “Yeah, right. Since when do bugs leave marks that look like that?” She said, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she raised an eyebrow. “You guys are overthinking it. I told you, it’s nothing.” Zahir shifted uncomfortably but kept his cool. Zada smirked and tugg
The roar of the crowd echoed through the stadium as the inter-university football final was about to kick off. Zahir stood at the centre of the field, his eyes scanning the sea of spectators. His gaze immediately locked on Emily, who was standing at the sidelines, her bright eyes trained on the opposing team's captain, Aaron.Zahir's jaw clenched. Of course, he thought bitterly, she’s cheering for Aaron. She stood there, wearing Aaron's team jersey, clapping enthusiastically every time Aaron so much as adjusted his gear. His stomach twisted with jealousy, his grip on the football tightening. The sight of her smiling at Aaron’s direction made him feel a surge of possessiveness he couldn’t shake.Zahir took a deep breath, trying to shove aside the irrational jealousy gnawing at him. Focus on the game, not her, he told himself. But it wasn’t easy. Every time he glanced her way, she was cheering for Aaron. The same Aaron who she had been hanging around with, laughing with, spending way to
The cafeteria buzzed with laughter and conversation as Zahir and the rest of the gang entered, still riding the high of the intense football match. The group found their usual large table by the window, and everyone quickly settled in, with the chatter flowing easily as they recounted the game’s highlights.“Zahir, come on!” Emma piped up, bouncing in her seat. “You’ve gotta give us a treat after that win!”Zahir leaned back in his chair, his arms crossed, a smug grin tugging at his lips. "Why don't you ask your Ron-Ron for a treat?" Zian taunted, his eyes flicking over to Emma. "After all, he lost quite spectacularly."Zahir, always ready to stir the pot, chimed in, leaning forward with a smirk. “Yeah, Emma. What’s wrong with Ron-Ron? Shouldn’t he be treating you after such a... memorable performance?"Emma frowned at the duo, her lips pursed in annoyance. “Ron-Ron already gave us a treat, Zi-Zi,” she said in a sweet, innocent tone, batting her eyelashes as if butter wouldn’t melt
Liam's farmhouse was buzzing with life as the party kicked into full swing. The sprawling lawn was lit with fairy lights, casting a soft glow over the scene. Music blared from speakers strategically placed around the space, creating the perfect atmosphere for a college party. Groups of students milled about, some by the pool, others near the bonfire, while others hung around the snack table, laughing and enjoying the night.The gang had gathered near the back patio, where Liam had set up a makeshift game area. Red solo cups were scattered everywhere, and a large bowl sat in the middle of the table, filled with folded slips of paper. People were lounging on beanbags, chatting, and sipping drinks.Emil leaned against the patio railing, his eyes occasionally wandering over to Izzy, who was laughing at something Zada had said. He hadn’t realised how drawn he was to her until recently, but the more time they spent together, the harder it was to ignore. Tonight, she looked especially stunni
“What the hell do you mean by Zada’s boyfriend?” Zayed thundered after overhearing a phone call his wife was having with his daughter.“Zayed. You can’t eavesdrop like that.” Ava said, glaring at her husband.“I wasn’t eavesdropping. I happened to overhear you speaking to Zada. Now answer me, damn it.” Zayed demanded furiously.“Stop screaming, will you?” Ava asked, totally unfazed by her husband’s fury. She was quite used to all his moods, so it wasn’t a big deal.“Does Zada have a boyfriend?” Zayed asked once again, trying to calm down. He knows his wife very well. If he becomes overbearing, she will simply ignore him and walk out. Now he needs answers.“Yes.”“Since when?”“It’s been a few months.”“And why am I only knowing about it now?”“Come on, you are a dad. Daughters naturally keep their boyfriends hidden from their dads.” Ava said, with a casual shrug of her shoulders.“Why would you keep it hidden from me, Aveline?” Zayed asked, glaring at her.“Because I didn’t want you t
Zada paced the small living room of her apartment with Liam, her heart racing as she replayed the earlier conversation with her mother. The weight of her father and uncles finding out about her relationship with Liam was crashing down on her like a tidal wave. “Liam, I can’t believe this is happening!” She exclaimed, wringing her hands nervously.Liam leaned against the wall, his expression shifting from relaxed to panicked in an instant. “Come on, give me a break! Your brothers just backed off. And now your dad and uncle are at it?” He groaned dramatically, pushing a hand through his hair. “What will we do?”“I don’t know!” Zada replied, her voice rising in pitch as panic settled in. “They are going to freak out! You know how my dad is. He is going to want to have a talk. A very serious talk.” She shivered at the thought, envisioning her father’s stern face and the way he often intimidated her male friends.“Can’t we just… I don’t know, avoid them? Just keep our heads down until th
At the airport, Zada, Zahir, and Zian waited in eager anticipation, spotting their family as they emerged through the gates. They waved excitedly as Zayed, Aveline, Salim, Camille, Basim, Katie, and the youngest siblings—Zaif, Anya, and little Zera—made their way toward them.After warm hugs and greetings, Zahir took the lead, guiding the family out to the cars waiting to take them to a villa owned by the Zidran embassy, a quiet, private place for the family to relax and refresh before the Fredrick family’s barbecue later that evening.As the Ahmed family settled into the villa, little Zera immediately became the centre of attention, toddling around in her bright pink dress and clutching her favourite stuffed bunny.Zada crouched down, arms open wide. “Come here, my baby!” She called, and Zera’s eyes sparkled as she wobbled over to her big sister, her bunny flopping in her tiny hand.“Za-da!” Zera squealed as she fell into her sister’s arms, giggling as Zada lifted her up, pressing a
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
"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