THE ART OF CLOSURE :: ZAYN

𝐱𝐱𝐱𝐯𝐢𝐢𝐢. 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐂𝐄

❝𝐈 𝐂𝐀𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐊𝐄 𝐀 𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐓 𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊
𝐀 𝐖𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐋𝐎𝐓 𝐋𝐈𝐊𝐄 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑.❞

The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore filled Celina's ears as she intertwined her fingers with Zayn's as they strolled toward the luxurious yacht she had rented for Naina's birthday. The gentle breeze carried the scent of the salty sea, and the sun cast a golden glow over the pair.

As they continued walking, Naina's eyes widened in disbelief at the sight in front of her, "This is insane!" she whispered excitedly to her boyfriend, Spencer, who stood beside her, equally amazed. He gave a quiet nod, his hand resting on the small of her back as he guided her down the dock.

Since Naina's sixteenth birthday, Celina had taken on the role of planning her birthday celebration. It wasn't something she was asked to do, but a tradition she had started on her own. Each year she came up with new experiences that everyone, not just Naina, looked forward to and cherished.

She had missed out on Naina's birthday last year and it weighed heavily on her. She was determined to make up for it, to show how much she cared for the now twenty-two year old she had always viewed as a little sister. They had flown to Greece, a place of endless beauty, and gathered the family—Safaa, Trisha, and Spencer. Yaser was never one for huge extravagant trips, so he celebrated with everyone over the past weekend.

"Is it this one?" Trisha asked, squinting through her sunglasses as she scanned the line of docked yachts, spotting an older gentleman with grey hairs and the sweetest smile waving boldly at them.

Zayn glanced over at his mother, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, Mum, that's the one," he confirmed, squeezing Celina's hand lightly as they reached closer to the ramp.

"Welcome aboard!" The older gentleman happily greeted them as they approached.

Zayn carefully helped Celina and his sisters onto the yacht. The boat was sleek and modern and rocked slightly against the ocean waves beneath it.

"Thank you," Celina responded with genuine enthusiasm, "We're really excited to be here!"

"Happy to have you all here! My name is David. I'll be your captain today." He spoke as he extended his hand to help Trisha onto the boat as well, despite Zayn already helping her.

"Why, thank you," Trisha replied, peeking over her sunglasses with a mischievous smile. David matched her energy, throwing in a wink for good measure. Celina stifled a giggle and glanced at Zayn, who shook his head in amusement.

"Mom, seriously. Dad just died three days ago!" Naina joked with mock outrage, stomping her foot like a toddler throwing a tantrum. David straightened up, wide-eyed, immediately back to business.

"Don't say that!" Safaa shouted, sprinting after Naina, who let out a playful scream and took off running.

"Oh, hush it, Nai!" Trisha scolded lightly, swatting in the direction of her daughter as she finally made it onto the yacht.

Naina quickly ducked behind Spencer for cover, causing the group to burst into laughter. Spencer, ever the good sport, raised his hands in mock surrender and stepped aside, leaving her defenseless.

Once everyone was settled, the yacht glided away from the dock, the hum of the engine blending with the peaceful rhythm of the waves. The farther they moved from shore, the more serene everything became and a sense of calm settled over them all.