LOVE WITHOUT DESTINY

part19

The morning sun filters through the window, but Amal feels no warmth. Her heart is heavy with the knowledge of what's to come. She stands in front of the mirror, staring at her reflection. Today, she's not just leaving her house-she's leaving her family, her home, her world.

Before stepping out, Amal makes her way to the living room. Her father is sitting on the sofa with his glasses perched on his nose, reading the newspaper. He doesn't look up when she enters, and Amal hesitates, gathering her courage.

Amal (softly): "Baba?"

Her father lowers the newspaper and looks at her, his expression unreadable.

Amal: "Can I ask you something?"

Her voice trembles slightly, but she pushes through.

Amal: "How long can you stay angry with your daughter?"

For a moment, there's silence. Then her father sighs, taking off his glasses.

Father: "Angry? Why would I be angry? Amal, you are my daughter. You're the reason this house feels alive. I can't stay away from you for a moment, let alone be angry for days. Why are you asking me this?"

Amal's eyes brim with tears. She feels like a knife is twisting in her heart. She steps closer and hugs him tightly, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. For a moment, she wishes she could stay here forever, but she knows her decision is made.

Her mother enters the room, holding a cup of tea. She notices Amal's tears and frowns.

"What's wrong, Amal? Did something happen?"

Amal quickly wipes her tears and shakes her head, forcing a smile.

"No, mom. I just wanted to hug Baba."

Her grandmother, who has been sitting quietly in the corner knitting, chuckles softly.
Grandmother: "You're becoming sentimental, Amal. What's gotten into you today?"

Amal just smiles, kissing her grandmother on the forehead before excusing herself.

As she walks out, she turns back to look at her family one last time. She memorizes every detail-the way her father folds the newspaper, her mother's warm gaze, her grandmother's soft laughter. This might be the last time she sees them like this.

At college

The college campus buzzes with life as Amal walks to the canteen with Asma by her side. They settle at a corner table, the usual chatter and laughter of students filling the air.

"You've been quiet all morning. What's going on? Is everything okay?"asma asked, sounding both puzzled and worried.

Amal shakes her head, forcing a smile.

"I'm fine. Just... a lot on my mind."

Before Asma can press further, Noah walks into the canteen. Her eyes immediately scan the room until they land on Amal. Pretending to be casual, she pulls out her phone and dials a number, speaking loudly enough for Amal to hear.

Noah (on the phone): "Zain, hey! I'm at the canteen. Do you want anything to eat?"

There's a pause as Zain replies, his voice clear on the other end.

Zain: "No, I don't need anything. Thanks."

Noah smirks, her tone exaggerated and deliberately loud.

Noah: "Oh, come on! Don't be shy. Okay, okay, I'll grab something for you anyway. We'll eat together later."

Amal hears this and glances at Asma, who rolls her eyes in irritation.

"What's her problem? Why is she making it sound like you care about Zain?",Asma said under her breath