Chapter 11

6 1 0
                                    

As the party wound down, after they danced,  Maria noticed Amir had become increasingly preoccupied with the two girls. They laughed easily with him, and though she tried not to let it get to her, she couldn't help the gnawing jealousy that bubbled up inside. Her mind wandered, wondering if he would drive them home, extending the time they spent together, while she was left on the sidelines, an afterthought.

When Amir's parents offered to drive her home, she accepted with gratitude, thankful for the escape. The ride was pleasant, filled with casual conversation and warm smiles. His parents were so kind, making her feel as though she belonged. When they pulled up in front of her place, she thanked them sincerely.

"You're always welcome in our home, Maria," Amir's mother said with a gentle smile. "We'd love to have you over again soon. How about a sleepover? We can have a proper chat, just us girls."

The invitation caught Maria off guard. A sleepover? She wasn't sure what to make of it. Part of her was touched by their eagerness to spend more time with her, but another part hesitated. She didn't want to give them—or Amir—the wrong idea. What would he think if she stayed over? Would he even care?

Maria forced a smile and nodded. "I'll definitely visit again soon. Thank you so much for the invitation."

As she stepped out of the car and watched them drive away, a flurry of thoughts swirled in her mind. She didn't know how to feel about the whole evening. Amir's surprise at seeing her, the way he seemed to focus on the other girls, and now, this invitation from his parents—it all left her feeling unsettled. She didn't want to be misunderstood, didn't want to impose or seem too forward. But at the same time, she was drawn to Amir and his family in a way that made it hard to walk away.

Back in the quiet of her home, Maria replayed the evening in her mind, her thoughts constantly circling back to Amir. What would he think about his parents' invitation? Would he even care if she stayed over? The uncertainty gnawed at her, and she realized she was on the verge of something—something that could either deepen her connection with Amir or push them further apart. But for now, all she could do was wait and see.

Hers to LoveWhere stories live. Discover now