In the Heart of Darkness

Chapter 12: A New Light

The sun's golden rays streamed through the curtains as Zara woke up, feeling light-hearted and refreshed. The previous weeks had passed in a blur, but today felt different. She had settled into her university routine and was finally beginning to feel like she belonged. A smile crept to her lips as she thought about her new friend, Ayesha. Having a real friend felt so good after everything she had been through.

After freshening up, she made her way to the kitchen. Nancy was already bustling around, preparing breakfast. Zara greeted her with a bright smile.

"Assalam o Alikum! Good morning, Nancy!" she chirped, pulling out a chair at the kitchen table.

"Walikum Assalam, Good morning, Madam!" Nancy responded warmly, serving her some fresh paratha, omelet, and chai.

Zara frowned teasingly. "How many times do I have to tell you? Just call me Zara! No more 'madam' business."

Nancy chuckled softly but shook her head. "I'm trying. But Sir has been very particular about that."

Zara rolled her eyes playfully. "Well, Sir isn't here right now, is he? Besides, I can handle him. You're my friend now, not just the help."

Nancy hesitated, looking uncertain. "I don't want to upset him..."

Zara reached across the table and took Nancy's hand. "Nancy, I mean it. You're more than just an employee. Please, drop the 'madam' thing. We're equals here."

Nancy's smile brightened. "Alright, Zara," she agreed softly.

With a satisfied nod, Zara turned her attention to breakfast. After breakfast she left for University with driver.

In the university courtyard as Zara walked through it, her heart light with contentment. The fresh breeze filled the air with the scent of flowers, and Zara felt a sense of belonging she hadn't experienced in a long time. Today was an exceptional day; she had a lively discussion in her class and spent the afternoon laughing with her new friend, Ayesha, whom she'd met in the library a few weeks ago.

Ayesha had a warm personality-kind, witty, and genuine. Zara hadn't realized how much she craved a real friendship until Ayesha came into her life. Even though they both are from different department but still they shared a beautiful bond.

"I'm glad we met, Zara," Ayesha said, smiling as they exited their final lecture for the day.

"Me too," Zara replied, feeling a rush of warmth. "You've made this place bearable for me."

They made plans to meet up after the next class to study for an upcoming test. Zara felt a little more confident with Ayesha by her side. The sting of the bullying she'd endured weeks ago was fading, replaced with a sense of acceptance and companionship.

When Zara got home that evening, she was still buzzing from her day at university. She walked into the house, greeted by the familiar scent of spices wafting from the kitchen. Nancy was already prepping for dinner.

"Zara, you're home early," Nancy noted, looking over her shoulder.

"Yeah, everything went smoothly today," she replied casually, sipping water from the glass. "What are we having for dinner today?" she asked.

Nancy's face lit up. "Oh, I was thinking of cooking biryani tonight?"

"Biryani sounds perfect," Zara said, feeling a wave of excitement wash over her. "Want some help with dinner?" she asked, pulling her hair back.

Nancy smiled shyly. "Sure, but you know Sir-he doesn't like you doing any work around the house."

Zara rolled her eyes. "Sir can have his opinions. I want to help."