When we first met (A Zatima Story)

Closer

Zac paced nervously outside the school building, glancing at his watch. He had promised himself he'd talk to Fatima today, hoping to address the tension that had been brewing ever since their last conversation. He knew he needed to clear the air about Maya, and more importantly, he needed Fatima to understand that he was trying to make things right.

When he finally spotted her, walking towards him with her usual grace, he felt a mixture of relief and anxiety. Taking a deep breath, he approached her, trying to maintain a calm demeanor despite the flutter of nerves in his stomach.

"Hey Fatima, can I talk to you for a minute?" Zac asked, his voice steady but with an edge of urgency.

Fatima, who had been lost in her thoughts, looked up with a resigned sigh. "Yes, Zac," she replied, her tone hinting at her frustration.

Zac led her to a quieter spot near the school's courtyard, away from the bustling students. He faced her, trying to find the right words. "I wanted to let you know that I talked to Maya about what happened. I've made it clear to her that she's not going to bother you again. I'm really sorry for what she did, and I apologize on her behalf."

Fatima's expression hardened as she crossed her arms. "Zac, I told you not to talk to her. I don't want any more problems. I'm trying really hard not to go back to my old ways, and Maya was really pushing my buttons a couple of days ago."

Zac looked pained. "I understand, Fatima. I didn't want to cause more trouble. I just didn't think it was fair to let her keep doing this to every girl I know. It's not just about you—she's been a problem for others too. So I broke up with her. She won't be an issue anymore, okay?"

Fatima's eyes narrowed. "Don't go making decisions on my account, Zac. I appreciate that you're trying to handle it, but it's not your job to fix everything for me."

"I'm not trying to fix everything for you," Zac said earnestly. "I'm just trying to be fair. Maya's behavior was hurtful and disruptive, and it wasn't right. I'm really sorry for putting you in this situation."

Fatima sighed, clearly still agitated. "It's fine, Zac. But if she comes after me because you two broke up, I swear I'll handle it myself. She's been trying me for real, and I won't let it slide."

Zac nodded, his face showing a mix of concern and relief. "I promise she won't come near you again. I'm dealing with it."

The conversation seemed to shift in tone, and Zac seized the moment to address something that had been on his mind. "On that note, what did you mean the other day when you said you're trying not to go back to your old ways?"

Fatima's face closed off slightly. "Don't worry about it," she said, her voice tight.

Zac's brows furrowed. "But I do worry, Fatima. I want to understand what's going on with you, especially if it's affecting us."

Fatima's shoulders tensed, and she looked away, struggling to find the right words. "It's nothing, Zac. Just some stuff I'm working through. I don't want to drag you into it."

Zac's voice softened. "Fatima, I'm here for you. Whatever it is, you don't have to go through it alone. We're in this together."

Fatima's eyes met his, and for a moment, the hardness in her gaze softened. "I know, Zac. It's just... sometimes, things get complicated. I'm trying to handle them on my own, but it's hard."

Zac reached out, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "I understand. Just remember that I'm here if you need to talk or need anything. I care about you, and I want to support you."

Fatima nodded slowly, appreciating his sincerity but still struggling to fully open up. "I'll keep that in mind. I just need some time to figure things out."

Zac gave her a reassuring smile. "Okay. I just want you to be okay."

Fatima managed a small smile in return. "I will be. I'll see you at the game later?"

Zac nodded, grateful for the small glimmer of normalcy. "Yeah, I'll be there. See you later, Fatima."

As Fatima walked away, Zac watched her, feeling a mix of relief and lingering concern. He had hoped this conversation would clear the air and offer some reassurance, but he knew there were still unresolved issues between them. He just hoped that their relationship could withstand the challenges they faced, and that they could find a way to navigate the complexities of their lives together.