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Sahar's POV
Thunder rumbles ominously overhead, echoing through the entirety of London as heavy rain pours down from the brooding clouds above. The thick, dark masses linger in the sky, casting deep shadows over the cityscape below. The earthy scent of rain permeates the air, saturating the atmosphere with its distinctive aroma.
"Doctor, he'll be alright within a week, won't he?" Anxious concern is evident in the voice of a young woman in her twenties as she cradles her dog, seeking reassurance.
"That sounds about right," I respond, peeling off the gloves from my hands with a sense of relief, silently thanking providence that the shift has finally drawn to a close.
"Rough day, huh?" Cady, my assistant, queries sympathetically as she gathers her belongings. I muster a faint smile in response as I make my way out of the office.
The rain is coming down heavily now. I dash towards my car, futilely attempting to shield myself from the downpour and failing miserably.I release a long, weary sigh, sinking into the driver's seat of my car as I reflect on the whirlwind of the past few weeks. It's been absolute chaos ever since I embarked on the journey of opening my own pet clinic, navigating through countless challenges and setbacks along the way.
"Hi, I'm Sahar," I mutter to myself, almost as if introducing myself to the solitude of the car. "I'm a veterinarian based in London." The words feel both familiar and surreal as they escape my lips. From the relentless cramming of study materials to enduring frequent all-nighters, I've poured every ounce of determination into realizing my dream job.
Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle, a nagging question gnaws at the corners of my mind: am I truly content? It's a thought that's been plaguing me relentlessly in recent days, refusing to grant me a moment's peace.
Shaking off the existential ponderings, I reach for my phone and power it on, only to be met with the glaring notification of five missed calls from Jamal. I reach out to her, feeling a surge of panic.
ring ring...ring ring
Jamal: Hello?
Sahar: OMG what happened? {panicking}
Jamal: uhh I just called to let you know that my flight has been booked and I'm landing next Thursday. why do you seem paranoid though?
Sahar: Thank god. I though you were kidnapped or something {sighing breaths of relief}
Jamal: Stop being paranoid all the time dude. Did you get enough sleep last night?
Sahar: Yep {feels guilty as she's lying}
Jamal: Alright then. take care of yourself. I'll text you later.
Sahar: You too.
I set the phone down on the passenger seat and turn the ignition key, the engine humming to life. Jamal, my beloved younger cousin and I share a close bond, one that transcends mere familial ties. She's embarking on a new chapter, relocating here to pursue her studies. With her family residing miles away, she'll be moving into the apartment room next to mine. It's a decision made not just out of convenience but also out of a deep sense of responsibility and care.
I want to ensure she feels supported and looked after in this unfamiliar environment. So, being nearby, I can readily lend a helping hand whenever she needs it.
As I drive home, my mind swirls with countless thoughts. After navigating through traffic and enduring a lengthy commute, I finally arrive at my apartment complex.
Parking in the lot, I scan my car for any overlooked items before stepping into the elevator and pressing the button. Ascending to the 5th floor, I briskly walk to my room, only to halt abruptly at the sight of something suspicious stationed in front of my door.
A box.
Curiosity piqued, I ponder its contents. "Perhaps the book I ordered arrived sooner than expected?" I mumble to myself with a hint of amusement.
Just as I'm about to investigate further, a faint meow breaks the silence, sending a jolt of surprise through me. With swift movements, I open the box, revealing a precious sight—a fluffy, baby British Shorthair nestled inside.
"Well, well, look who's here!" I exclaim, scooping up the adorable creature. I ponder over who could have left such a delightful surprise at my doorstep. Could it be a stray, or perhaps someone's cat had an unexpected litter? Regardless, the prospect of companionship fills me with warmth, especially in my mostly solitary living space.
I cautiously insert the key into the lock, expecting the familiar click of the door unlocking. To my surprise, the door swings open effortlessly. A sense of unease washes over me; something doesn't feel right.
