FOREVER WITH YOU

Chapter 22: She Hadn't Expected To Be Chosen

The university hall buzzed with excitement as students filled the spacious room. Some had dressed up, donning their finest attire. Bright colors and stylish outfit caught the eye, reflecting the eagerness to make a good impression.

Rayyan strode into the lecture hall, his commanding presence electrifying the air. His dark blue suit, tailored to perfection, showcased his impeccable style. The high-end designer accentuated his tall, athletic build, drawing admiring glances.

Tasleem observed the scene with interest. Her gaze drifted from one person to another. A whisper caught her attention.

"He's so handsome, I want to marry him!" 

"I'd die for him!" another voice chimed in.

"I heard he's single... I'll definitely talk to him."

Tasleem's eyes widened in surprise, her gaze darting around. Are women this bold nowadays?

As he stood at the podium, female students whispered, their eyes locked on him. Rayyan remained oblivious, his charisma palpable. 

The room fell silent, awaiting his words. "Your attention please," he began, his deep voice commanding attention and resonating through the hall.  "AIMS university has been selected to participate in the prestigious National Speech Championship, showcasing the best academic minds in the country."

A murmur of excitement ripped through the crowd, but Rayyan's expression remained aloof. "I'll select two outstanding participants from this department for the speech and represent us on the national stage."

Eyes widened, hands rose, but Rayyan's gaze swept past the eager students. "Tasleem Abdul," he called out, "Rafiq Abdulrahim," he added.

Rafiq immediately stood up. Zainab nudged Tasleem, breaking her daydream. Tasleem  swiftly rose, her voice trembling. "Yes, sir."

Rayyan's expression remained aloof. "You two are the chosen participants. Get ready." 

"Okay, sir," they replied in unison.

Tasleem hadn't expected to be chosen, especially by Rayyan, notorious for his arrogance.

Rayyan demanded curtly, "Meet me at my office. Now." Without waiting for further response, he turned and left the lecture hall.

Tasleem's heart skipped a beat. Nervousness and fear swirled in her stomach, like a vortex.

What had she gotten herself into? Of all people, why her?

The female students in the lecture hall exchanged disappointed glances. They had wished Rayyan had chosen them, if only to spend time with him. One student whispered, "Lucky Tasleem..."

Tasleem gathered her belongings, her hands trembling. Her palms were slick with sweat, she left the lecture hall.

As she walked out, she overheard whispers echoing through the hall: "He's so handsome..." 

"I wish I was chosen..." "Tasleem is so lucky..."

•••••••

The wait was over; today was the day – the National Speech Championship had finally arrived. Tasleem and Rafiq, meticulously prepared by Rayyan, exuded confidence boarding the university bus.

 Before departing, Rayyan gathered Tasleem and Rafiq, his eyes scanning them. "Believe in yourself, speak from the heart, and focus on your message. Today, share your passion, and inspire. Showcase your intellectual prowess and make AIMS university proud."

They nodded in unison. "Yes, sir." 

Tasleem took a deep breath, mentally rehearsing her speech. trembled slightly as she glanced at Rafiq, who offered a reassuring smile.