FOREVER WITH YOU

Don't go without considering us

The next day....

Rayyan sat in his room, meticulously checking his travel documents for his upcoming trip to Dubai. Satisfied that everything was in order, he headed to his adjacent toilet for a quick bath. The warm water relaxed his muscles, washing away the day's fatigue.

He slipped into his comfortable blue shirt and Brioni silk-blend trousers. Phone in hand, he made his way downstairs to the living room.

Settling into the plush sofa, Rayyan began scrolling through his phone, catching up on the financial news.

The door swung open, and Rayyan turned to face the entrance. Khalid walked in, car keys dangling from his hand, and settled into the single-seater sofa facing Rayyan.

"Hey, cousin," Khalid said, "you haven't gone to work today?"

Rayyan set his phone aside. "Yes, I was settling things for the trip. Thanks for checking in."

Khalid replied, "I heard you'd take a long time before you come back?"

"Yeah, maybe a year." Rayyan replied.

"I'd miss you, man", he replied. "Where's Tasleem?"

Rayyan's eyes narrowed slightly. "Tasleem? Who's that?"

Khalid hesitated,  "I mean, the girls."

Rayyan raised an eyebrow. "You're asking me? How would I know where the girls are?" He threw up his hands. "I'm a man, for goodness' sake! Can't you see? It's not like I'm keeping tabs on them."

Khalid burst into laughter, then headed to Amira's room. He informed them that he'd take them out, Amira was so excited. After getting ready, they informed Mamie before heading downstairs.

They bid farewell to Rayyan. 

 Together, they made their way to the parking space. Amira took the front passenger seat, while Tasleem settled into the back. Khalid slid behind the wheel and started the car.

....

Rayyan's phone buzzed, it was a message from his friends group chat: 'Hey guys, since Rayyan will be leaving soon, I want to treat you all. Let's meet at our usual place.'- Hamid

'Will be there, and Habeeb I've something important to discuss with you'- replied Rayyan

He slipped his phone back into his pocket and headed to the parking lot. As he approached his car, he heard his name. 

'Is she keeping tabs on me?' Rayyan thought.

He turned, his gaze meeting Amra's. 

"I heard you're leaving for a long time?" Amra asked.

Rayyan nodded. "Yes." 

Amra's voice softened. "Ya Rayyan, I... I love you. Please give me a chance. Don't go without considering us." 

Rayyan's tone turned gentle yet firm. "I know this might hurt, but I want to be honest with you. I don't feel anything for you, You deserve someone better. Someone who can give you the attention and love you deserve. But I'm not that person Amra. Please accept this fact."

Amra's face fell, but she persisted. "Ya Rayyan, What if... What if you come back and realize you love me?" 

Rayyan's gaze drifted away, his silence speaking volumes, he didn't answer. He slipped into his car and started the engine. As he pulled out of the parking lot, he caught a glimpse of Amra watching him leave.