Over and Over

Ping

DOHA,
QATAR.

LAYLA'S POV

The next morning, I woke to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and something sweet.

My eyes fluttered open to find Hakeem standing by the bed, balancing a tray filled with breakfast.

There were croissants, honey-dipped dates, freshly cut fruits, and two steaming cups of coffee.

He looked too pleased with himself, his mischievous grin making me suspicious.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," he said, placing the tray in front of me.

I sat up, rubbing my eyes. "What's this? Breakfast in bed?"

"I figured I'd start the day off right," he replied, sitting beside me. "Besides, I promised you yesterday, didn't I?"

I couldn't help but smile as I reached for a croissant. "Careful, Hakeem. You're setting the bar really high."

He chuckled, leaning back on one arm. "I'll take my chances. Finish up quickly, though. I want to explore Doha with you today."

My excitement bubbled over. "You mean it? No interruptions this time?"

"None," he said, holding up a hand. "Scout's honor."

But as luck would have it, just as we were getting ready to leave, Hakeem's phone buzzed on the counter.

His relaxed expression shifted as he read the message.

"Everything okay?" I asked.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Some urgent work came up.

I have to handle it, but it won't take long. You can still go ahead without me."

I hesitated, but he smiled reassuringly. "Go. I'll join you as soon as I'm done."

Reluctantly, I agreed and left alone, armed with a list of spots I wanted to see.

Wandering the streets of Doha was a sensory delight—the vibrant souks, the ornate architecture, and the tantalizing aroma of spices in the air.

I found myself drawn to a small store tucked into a quiet corner, its window display filled with intricate sea-themed trinkets.

Inside, I admired everything from pearl-encrusted necklaces to delicate seashell carvings.

I picked up a bracelet, its tiny charms resembling starfish and waves.

It was perfect, but when I checked my wallet, I realized I didn't have enough cash.

Frustrated, I stepped outside and called Hakeem.

"Let me guess," he said as soon as he answered, amusement lacing his voice. "You found something you couldn't resist."

"Maybe," I admitted sheepishly. "But I don't have enough money on me."

He chuckled. "Just tell them who your husband is."

I blinked, confused. "What does that have to do with anything? Do you have some sort of VIP membership here?"

"Something like that," he said, his tone teasing. "The store's ours, Layla."

My jaw dropped. "What?"

"Part of the family properties," he said casually, as if it were no big deal. "Go ahead.

Take whatever you want. Consider it a honeymoon gift."

I laughed, shaking my head. "You could've led with that, you know."