22- Job Hunting

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Zafrin sat hunched over her laptop, her eyes scanning job listings with a focused intensity. The quiet hum of the room was occasionally punctuated by the clicking of keys. She was in search of the perfect opportunity, a position at a five-star hotel where she could showcase her skills in Italian and Chinese cuisine while introducing foreign guests to the rich flavors of Indian food. Her ambition was clear, and her dedication palpable.

The door creaked open, and Roshina entered, her figure casting a slender shadow against the backdrop of Zafrin's cluttered room. Roshina's appearance had changed significantly over the years. The vibrant, energetic woman Zafrin remembered had become more reserved and thin, a reflection of the strains and adjustments of married life.

"What are you doing, Zaaf?" Roshina asked, settling down beside her friend. Her eyes, though weary, held a glimmer of the warmth and concern that Zafrin had missed.

Without looking away from the screen, Zafrin replied, "Just searching for a job that fits my preferences. I want to work at a five-star hotel where I can really make an impact. Show them what Indian cuisine is all about."

Roshina's gaze softened as she watched Zafrin's fervent dedication. "You're always so focused."

"When did you come home, Rosh?"

Roshina sighed, a touch of melancholy in her voice. "I just got back. My husband went to Delhi on a business trip, so I had some free time. I thought I'd come and catch up with you. It's been a while."

Zafrin glanced at Roshina, noting the subtle changes in her friend's demeanor. "I'm sorry I couldn't make it to your wedding."

Roshina gave a small, rueful smile. "It's alright. Things have changed a lot since then. I resigned from my job and became a housewife. I wanted to become a makeup artist, but... life had other plans."

She hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her dress. "Marriage... it's not what I expected. It's challenging, and it's a lot of adjustments. I thought I could manage it all...work and home...but it's not that simple."

Zafrin looked at her friend with a mix of sympathy and curiosity. "I didn't realize it was so tough. You always seemed so capable."

Roshina shook her head, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "It's not about being capable. It's about balancing dreams with reality. I thought I could handle both, but sometimes, you have to choose. And I chose my family."

She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "And let me give you a piece of advice, Zaaf. Don't rush into marriage. Take your time. It's important to build a foundation for yourself first. I didn't, and now... I wish I'd focused more on my own dreams before diving into this."

Zafrin nodded, absorbing Roshina's words. The sincerity in her friend's voice was undeniable. "I appreciate the advice. I want to make sure I'm making the right choices for myself before considering anything else."

Roshina smiled weakly. "You've always been driven. I know you'll find your path. Just remember to stay true to yourself, no matter what life throws at you."

The conversation lingered in the air, a blend of past and present, hopes and regrets. As Zafrin returned to her search, the weight of Roshina's experiences settled in her mind. Her friend's struggles were a poignant reminder of the complexities of life, a counterpoint to the dreams she was chasing.

The room was quiet once more, but the bond between the two friends had grown stronger, woven with threads of shared history and future aspirations.

As Zafrin continued her job search, the sound of Roshina's phone ringing broke the silence. Roshina glanced at the screen, her expression shifting to one of mild concerns. She answered the call, her voice soft and careful.

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