When we first met (A Zatima Story)

Just Us

It was the week of graduation, and excitement was in the air. Fatima and Zac were both eagerly anticipating their new chapter at Howard University. Their relationship had been flourishing, and they were thrilled about starting college together. The thought of being apart was unbearable, so their decision to attend the same university felt like a perfect fit.

**At Fatima's House**

Fatima was rummaging through her closet, searching for the perfect dress for her upcoming date with Zac. Her best friend Andi was there, trying to help her make a decision.

"Andi, did you hear anything I just said?" Fatima asked, her voice slightly distracted as she sifted through her clothes.

"Yes, I did," Andi replied, crossing her arms and tapping her foot impatiently.

"What did I say?" Fatima quizzed, trying to keep her focus.

"Exactly," Andi said, raising an eyebrow.

Fatima sighed and pulled out her phone. "I'm sorry, Zac texted me asking me on a date."

"Ooooh, this will be your first date as a couple! He better pull out all the stops for my best friend," Andi said excitedly.

"I asked him where we're going, and he said Mont Blu," Fatima revealed.

"Girl, y'all are going fancy," Andi said, her eyes widening in excitement.

"I know! I've got to find something to wear," Fatima said, feeling the pressure of finding the perfect outfit.

"All those thousand-dollar dresses in your closet, just pick one," Andi said, waving her hand dismissively.

"But I already wore those. I want to find something new and cute for our first date as a couple," Fatima explained.

"Girl, I would kill to have at least one of those dresses," Andi said with a hint of envy.

"Girl, take them! But in the meantime, I only have three days to find a bomb-ass dress," Fatima said, her frustration clear.

"Andi, I'm your bestie. I got you," Andi said with a reassuring smile.

"Thanks, Andi," Fatima said, giving her friend a hug.

**The Next Day at School**

Fatima met Zac by his locker. They greeted each other with warm smiles.

"Hey, baby," Zac said, leaning in for a kiss.

"Hey, handsome," Fatima replied, returning the kiss.

"Are you ready for our date on Saturday?" Zac asked, looking hopeful.

"No, I don't have anything to wear," Fatima said with a hint of frustration.

"Fatima, all those dresses you have, just pick one. You're still going to look sexy in it," Zac said, trying to reassure her.

"I'm serious. I want it to be special for our first date as a couple," Fatima insisted.

"You're right, but don't stress about your outfit. You're still going to look beautiful, okay?" Zac said, giving her a comforting smile.

"Thank you, baby," Fatima said, and they shared a sweet kiss.

Unbeknownst to them, Maya was lurking around the corner, eavesdropping on their conversation. Her eyes narrowed as she overheard their plans for Saturday. Maya was plotting to crash their date, hoping to stir up trouble and break them apart.

**Fast-Forward to Saturday**

The day of the date arrived, and Fatima was buzzing with anticipation. She was in her room, trying on her dress while Andi offered her support.