The next morning, Miraal woke up with a rush of excitement coursing through her veins. Today was the day she'd been eagerly anticipating-her trip to Korea, where she'd finally get to see Momin again after so long. She had stayed up late the previous night, meticulously packing her luggage and carefully arranging all the gifts she had bought, especially the one she chose for Momin.
Dressed in a chic jeans outfit that highlighted her confident and edgy style, Miraal took a moment before leaving her room. She glanced up at the ceiling and whispered a short prayer, "Yallah, I trust you," with a soft smile playing on her lips. Feeling a surge of optimism, she grabbed her bags and stepped out of her room.
Downstairs, she found Behlul and Zoya waiting for her. Behlul was leaning casually against the wall, while Zoya was checking her watch, looking slightly impatient. Mr. Younus was already in the car, ready to drive them to the airport. As soon as Miraal appeared, she rushed over to Zoya and gave her a tight hug, her happiness practically radiating from her.
Zoya, taken aback by the unexpected display of affection, looked at Miraal curiously. "Ohh, my Moon is so happy today. What's the reason?" she asked with a motherly smile.
Behlul, noticing his sister's unusually cheerful demeanor, chuckled and added, "Mom, I think something is fishy. What's going on, hmm?"
Miraal rolled her eyes playfully and lightly punched Behlul's chest. "You behave, okay?" she retorted, though the grin on her face betrayed her teasing mood.
Zoya laughed softly, brushing off Behlul's teasing. "Yaah, Behlul, if she's happy, let her be. I'm sure she's just excited to meet her best friend, Nafayall, after such a long time." Miraal's heart skipped a beat, and she quietly corrected her mother in her mind, *No, Mom, it's Momin*.
Just then, they heard the car horn blare from outside. It was Mr. Younus, signaling that it was time to leave. The trio quickly gathered their things and made their way to the car, eager to begin their journey.
---
Meanwhile, in Italy, Kabir was also in the final stages of his preparation. He had packed his essentials, including a few surprises for his family back in Korea. Dressed in a sleek Calvin Klein jeans outfit, with his hair tied back in a neat ponytail, Kabir looked every bit the stylish traveler. His trusty backpack was slung over one shoulder, packed with everything he might need during the flight.
As he made his way to the airport, there was a sense of anticipation mixed with a touch of nostalgia. Kabir was looking forward to the reunion, especially with his mom, Aira, and he couldn't wait to see her reaction when she spotted him at the airport.
---
Back in Korea, Ahmed had already made his way to the airport. He had taken his car and was now waiting in the arrivals section for Zoya's family and Kabir to land. He stood by the gate, checking his watch occasionally, while his mind drifted to the upcoming days filled with family and friends.
As he waited, his thoughts turned to the various preparations Aira had been making at home. He knew she was just as excited as he was about welcoming everyone, and he couldn't wait to see her face light up when they all finally arrived.
Zoya's family arrived at the airport, and as they made their way through the bustling crowd, they spotted Ahmed standing by the arrivals area, looking as calm and collected as ever. Behlul was the first to rush over to him, pulling him into a warm hug. Mr. Younus followed, shaking Ahmed's hand and exchanging pleasantries.
Zoya approached next, her face lighting up with a smile as she greeted him. "Assalamualaikum, Ahmed."
He returned the smile and replied, "Walaikum Assalam, Zoya. Your best friend is eagerly waiting for you at home."
