85

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