fated hearts

chapter 6

It was Monday again.

Ibrahim was upstairs, as usual, waiting for Asiya to arrive. His face instantly brightened into a radiant smile as their gazes met, a silent yet powerful exchange of affection that sent warmth coursing through him. Asiya, unable to resist, smiled back, her lips curving into a soft, shy expression. As she drew closer, Ibrahim stepped into the hallway, positioning himself by the stairway so he could meet her halfway. Their eyes met once more, and his heart swelled with adoration.

"Ya habibaty, kullun qara kyau kike" (My beloved, you look more beautiful every day), he said, his voice tender, yet brimming with sincerity.

Asiya blushed, the soft pink tint on her cheeks glowing against her flawless skin. "Aşkimmm," she replied, drawing out the "m" with a teasing playfulness, her voice a melodic hum of affection.

Ibrahim's eyes softened as he took in her beauty. "Wallahi (I swear), I have never seen anyone look this good in uniform. I can’t even find the words to explain how breathtaking you are," he said, his tone infused with awe. "You’ve stolen my heart completely, Sia’m."

He gently took her adorable beige lunch bag, which perfectly matched her cute crossbody bag, from her hand. His fingers lingered briefly on hers, as if reluctant to let go. Together, they began walking toward the lockers, Ibrahim unable to keep his eyes off her. He trailed behind slightly, his gaze glued to her graceful movements, as though he were seeing her for the first time.

Asiya finally noticed his intense stare. "Aşkim, what if someone sees you looking at me that way?" she asked shyly, her voice barely audible.

Ibrahim’s lips quirked into a mischievous smile. "Sia’m, I thought we agreed not to hide anymore. Have you changed your mind?" he teased gently, stepping closer, his eyes sparkling with a blend of love and mischief.

She shook her head with a soft smile. "No, I haven’t. It’s just... the way you’re looking, it’s j...just..." She trailed off, unable to articulate the fluttering chaos in her chest.

Ibrahim’s expression softened as he reached for her hand, his touch sending a jolt of warmth through her. He stepped even closer, their bodies nearly touching. His voice dropped to a low, intimate murmur, only for her ears. "Sia’m, I love you. Seeing you every day but not being able to talk to you, not being able to hold you, it was torture. But now... now I can be close to you, hold your hand, talk to you. Do you have any idea how happy that makes me?"

The proximity of his body, the intensity of his gaze, and the sincerity in his voice made her heart race. She couldn’t meet his eyes; his breath on her face made her knees weak. "Aşkim, I’m very happy too," she managed to say, her voice barely a whisper.

Her head tilted downward, trying to avoid his gaze. His sleepy, bright eyes were too much; they pulled her in like a force she couldn’t resist. She felt dizzy, overwhelmed by the scent of his cologne—a blend of woodsy and sweet notes that lingered between them.

"Come on, we need to get to class. Mr. Jimoh is on his way," she whispered, her voice laced with nervousness and affection.

Ibrahim reluctantly took a step back, his fingers still entwined with hers. "I need to grab my book," she added, glancing at the locker.

"Alright, get it," he said, smiling, not letting go of her hand.

"I need my hand to do that," she said, her lips curving into a playful chuckle.

He chuckled softly, his deep laugh warming her heart. "Oh, sorry," he said, finally letting go with a sheepish grin.

She quickly grabbed her things, and they headed to class together. Today, Ibrahim had ensured there was a seat next to his for Asiya. Once the lecture began, both of them focused, their seriousness reflecting their shared dedication to their studies. However, as soon as the lecture ended, the air between them was filled again with their playful banter and sweet gestures.