The Bet & The Heart.

CHAPTER III

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the kitchen window, casting a warm glow on the breakfast table. Sofia sat at the table with Aunt Emelda and Syafiq, the aroma of freshly cooked fried rice filling the air. Her aunt was bustling around, serving breakfast with a smile.

"Good morning, everyone!" Sofia chirped, her enthusiasm lighting up the room.

"Good morning," Syafiq replied, barely looking up from his phone, his usual aloofness evident.

Sofia turned to her Aunt. "So, what's the plan for today?"

Her aunt paused, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel. "Well I don't have anything planned, but Syafiq is going to the market to pick up some groceries for me, just the usual stuff,"

Sofia's eyes lit up at the mention of the market. "Can I come with you, Syafiq?" she asked eagerly. "I'd love to see how you shop here,"

Syafiq looked up, a hint of annoyance crossing his face. "Why would you want to do that? It's just a grocery run. You'll just slow me down,"

"Please, Syafiq?" Sofia pressed, her voice softening as she added, "I really want to experience the life here, and going to the market sounds like a great way to do that!"

Her aunt smile encouragingly at Sofia. "It would be good for you both. Besides, it's an opportunity for you to bond,"

Syafiq sighed, clearly reluctant but also aware of Aunt Emelda's gaze. "Fine. But if you slow me down, I'm leaving you behind," he grumbled.

Sofia beamed, her heart racing at the prospect of spending time with him. "I promise I won't! Just let me get ready!"

As Syafiq waited for Sofia to get ready, he leaned against the kitchen counter, absently fiddling with the edge of his shirt. With each passing minute, he couldn't shake the feeling that this trip to the market could be a great opportunity. Maybe this is the perfect chance to bond with her, the thought, a spark of realization igniting within him. The idea of charm and strategy began to blend in together in his mind. If I play this right, I could win her over, he mused, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. If he approached this day with the intention of getting to know her better, it might help him fulfill both his bet and uncover the depths of her character.

As he stood there, he resolved to be more attentive, to engage in a conversation and show her around the market. Maybe if she sees the real me, she'll start to feel something, he concluded, glancing toward her closed bedroom door with newfound determination. This could be a turning point, not just for the bet, but perhaps for something deeper.

Just then, the door creaked open, and Syafiq's eyes widened slightly as he took in her outfit; a bright sundress paired with stylish sandals. While it was cute and fashionable, it clashed completely with the ruggedness of the village and the practicality needed for the market.

"Really?" Syafiq said, barely able to stifle his laughter. "You're wearing that? You'll stick out like a sore thumb,"

Sofia glanced down at her dress, confusion crossing his face. "What's wrong with it? I thought it looked nice,"

"It's not practical for the market. You'll just draw attention," Syafiq replied, his tone sharp. "People here don't dress like that,"

Her aunt stepped in, trying to diffuse the tension. "Sofia, why don't you change into something more comfortable? You'll be walking around a lot, and the market can be crowded,"