"You said you don't hate me. So, can't we start a new chapter?" she said trembling, her eyes filled with hope.
He laughed loudly. "Aliya Emdad are you a stupid or just pretending to be. Listen to me carefully. Yes I don't hate you. Actually I feel...
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"Hello to you All"
His sudden greeting left me gasping for air. I choked on my own breath, a small cough escaping before I could stop it.
Rafi quickly opened a water bottle and handed it to me, whispering, "Relax, sis." I was beyond grateful he was here with me; his presence was a steadying force.
I took a few sips, feeling the weight of a familiar gaze fixed on me, lingering longer than necessary. I didn’t need to look to know exactly who it was.
"So, I’ll announce a team of five members who’ll be handling the Ahmed Group projects," my boss declared. "Meeting in the conference room in fifteen minutes."
My boss then directed his attention to Tahmeed, gesturing toward his office. "Mr. Ahmed, please follow me."
I let out a deep breath. I’m just a new employee, I reminded myself. Surely, I wouldn’t be chosen for this project.
Confident in this thought, I turned back to my work, trying to ground myself in routine.
_______________________
In the Conference Room
"So, I’ve decided Mr. Alif, Mr. Jakir, Mr. Shafin, Mr. Rafi, and Miss Aliya will be handling the Ahmed Group project," my boss announced.
I blinked, completely stunned. Why me?
"Sir, sorry to interrupt, but how is my name on the list?" I asked, doing my best to sound composed. "I only became a permanent employee last month."
"Well, Miss Aliya, the Ahmed Group specifically requested a mix of talent and fresh perspectives," he explained with a small smile. "I chose Mr. Shafin as team leader, and the rest of you are nearly all new talent. Besides, I know what you’re capable of–you’ve been with us part-time, after all."
I nodded slowly, accepting his decision, though a nervous weight settled in my chest.
"One more thing," he continued. "The team will work directly from the Ahmed Group’s offices. This is a critical project for us, and if they’re satisfied, Mr. Tahmeed has expressed interest in becoming a permanent client."
Ya Allah, I thought. I have to go to his office! Which means I’ll see him every day.
___________________________
After the meeting, I lingered for a few moments, letting the shock settle. Lost in thought, I hadn’t noticed that everyone else had already left the room.
