Tea Avenue

Friends

It was indeed a fun-filled Friday, Fri-Yay. I savored my last sip of cappuccino.Elina is a beautiful, fun, and very jovial girl. She loves living in the moment and creating memories.

"Guys, guys, I think it's time for us to head back home," Zaviya alarmed.

"Yes, it's almost getting dark," Rafi agreed.

Elina and her friends had long planned to visit the newly opened mall, which had quickly become the talk of the town.

The mall was immense, offering everything one could possibly desire. What set it apart was the street food setup, a rarity in typical malls. It was simply amazing. 

"Okay, can somebody book a cab? I'm so full I can't even move," Fero panted.

"No problem, let me book it quickly. I know you're a lazy girl," Elina teased.

I took out my phone, entered the addresses, and booked a car. A notification informed us that the driver was nearby, so we hurried to the main entrance.

"Elina, what's the number plate?" Zaviya inquired.

"2463," Elina replied as we checked each car's number plate.

When the driver called, I answered.

"Hello, this is Ehsan, your driver for today. Could you tell me your exact location? I've been waiting near the gate for the past 10 minutes," Ehsan's deep yet humble voice came through the phone.

"Oh, hello Mr. Ehsan. Apologies for the delay. We're at the main entrance, probably by the first gate," Elina informed him.

"Okay, see you at the gate," Ehsan said before hanging up.

The black car arrived, strikingly beautiful, appearing to be a hybrid.With four people, we debated who would sit next to the driver. It was my turn, so I quietly took the front seat.

As the girls discussed the mall's grandeur, I admired the interior designer's creativity. It was a day filled with laughter.

One by one, the others got off at their homes. My house was farthest, leaving me alone in the car, scrolling through Instagram.

Suddenly, I heard a voice saying, "Hi." I glanced around, thinking it might be my imagination."Hi," the voice said again. I turned to the driver, meeting his gaze.

"Assalamu Alaikum, I'm Ehsan. I admire your manner of speaking, your conduct, and your devotion to religion. It's refreshing to see a young girl so connected to her faith in this Westernized culture. I appreciate your values," Ehsan said.

His words left me speechless. If only more people appreciated each other's good deeds, the world would be a better place.

I smiled and thanked him, not wanting to continue the conversation due to our non-mahram relationship.Then, out of nowhere, he said, "I think I'm in love with you..."