Over and Over

Aouto

MALÉ,
MALDIVES.

NARRATORS POV

Layla had never driven a sports car before, let alone one as sleek and powerful as the pink Porsche that now belonged to her.

As they stepped outside the showroom, the late afternoon sun gleamed off the car's polished surface, making it look even more unreal.

She ran her fingers over the cool metal, still struggling to believe this was hers.

Hakeem stood beside her, arms crossed, watching her with that smug, knowing expression. "So, are you going to drive it or just admire it all day?"

Layla shot him a look. "I'm still processing."

Hakeem chuckled. "Well, take your time, princess. It's not going anywhere."

She rolled her eyes but couldn't fight the warmth in her chest.

The salesman handed her the keys with a polite smile. "Enjoy your new car, Mrs. Hakeem."

Her breath caught at the way that sounded. Mrs. Hakeem.

She peeked at Hakeem from the corner of her eye, expecting him to tease her about it, but his expression had shifted.

Something flickered in his gaze—something dark, possessive.

Layla swallowed.

This man..

She quickly turned back to the Porsche, pressing the key fob to unlock it. The doors lifted slightly, the soft chime of the car welcoming her.

Layla slid into the driver's seat, her fingers tightening around the leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Hakeem opened the passenger door and eased in beside her. "You ready?"

Layla exhaled. "I think so."

Hakeem smirked. "You think?"

Layla shot him a glare. "I don't need your commentary right now."

His laugh was deep, rich. "Fine, fine. Just don't crash my gift, hmm?"

Layla rolled her eyes but couldn't stop her lips from twitching.

She pressed the start button, and the engine roared to life beneath her fingertips.

The sound sent a thrill rushing through her veins.

She glanced at Hakeem, her confidence returning. "Hold on."

And with that, she hit the gas.

The Porsche glided onto the road, smooth and effortless, as if responding to her touch.

Wind rushed through the open windows, the sun painting the city in hues of gold as they sped down the coastal highway.

Layla laughed, exhilarated.

Hakeem watched her, his expression softening.

"What?" she asked, breathless.

He leaned back in his seat, his gaze never leaving her.

"Nothing," he murmured. "I just like seeing you happy."

Layla's heart clenched.

Ya Allah.

She was so in love with this man.

She swallowed, fingers tightening around the wheel.

She wasn't sure how much longer she could keep it in.

The evening breeze was crisp as Layla sat on a roadside bench, her mango-flavored ice cream melting slightly as she twirled the spoon between her fingers.