Her Destiny || 📒

part 18

As Zayan settled into his chair, his eyes widened with anticipation. "Eomma, what's on the menu today? I'm starving!" he asked, his stomach growling with hunger. His mother's warm smile was accompanied by a gentle reply, "I made your favorite Tteokbokki, kimchi, and fried rice." The savory aromas wafting from the dishes made his mouth watery.

As his mother served Zayan, his father chimed in with a playful remark, "Severe hunger over here too! Are you going to feed everything to this clever fox?" He nodded towards Zayan, " He playfully dramatically his hunger, making Zayan chuckle. His mother lovingly rolled her eyes, familiar with her husband's antics, and handed him a full plate as well.

But then, his father's expression turned serious, and he leaned in, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. "Zayan, I need to tell you something. I was speaking with Mr. Zubair earlier today..."

Zayan's curiosity was piqued. He set his utensils down, his eyes locked on his father's, eager to hear the rest. "What did he say, Appa?" he asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.

His father paused, collecting his thoughts before continuing. "Mr. Zubair has been impressed with your dedication to your studies and extracurricular activities. He believes you have great potential and wants to discuss some opportunities with you."

Zayan's heart raced as he processed his father's words. Opportunities? What kind of opportunities? His mind raced with possibilities, his excitement building with each passing moment.

Zayan nodded,"Okay, Appa, I'll meet her and finalize the details of the deal."

Mr. Haroon's eyes twinkled with excitement as he nodded in agreement. "Yes, son, I have no doubt about it. You two will create something truly remarkable, a masterpiece. Your talents complement each other perfectly, and I'm confident that together, you'll achieve great things." He paused, a faraway look in his eyes. "Remember, Zayan, this collaboration is not just about business; it's about building a legacy. Make me proud, son." The weight of his father's words settled upon Zayan's shoulders, and he felt a surge of determination to make this partnership a success.

As Zayan pushed his chair back and rose from the table, his father's voice detained him, like a gentle yet unyielding grasp. "Where are you off to, young man?" Mr. Haroon's tone was laced with a mix of curiosity and caution.

Zayan's response was swift and assuring. "Just an outing with friends, Appa. I'll be back soon".

Mr. Haroon's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze piercing the air like a gentle. "It's already late, Zayan. The night has worn on, and the streets can be treacherous and you are going without bodyguard. Your safety is my concern." His voice was a gentle reminder, a paternal warning cloaked in a soft tone.

Zayan's response was gentle and calm. "I'll be quick, Appa. I will return soon, with the night still young and my spirits high. Trust me, I'll be safe." And immediately run out outside and drove his car towards basketball court.

.........

Zayan, Ali, Fahad, and Minhu were all on the court, trying to play a game of basketball. But Minhu...well, Minhu was just being Minhu.

"Hey, guys! Watch this!" Minhu shouted, before attempting a dunk and ending up hanging from the rim like a human pinata.

Zayan face-palmed. "Minhu, you're like a one-man circus - except instead of juggling balls, you're juggling face-plants!"

Minhu grinned, still dangling from the rim. "Hey, at least I'm getting a good upper body workout!"

Ali stumbled over to them, rubbing his sore head. "Yeah, and I'm getting a good headache workout - courtesy of this court!"