The internship week turned out to be an asset for my career, I've received an offer from my dream publishing company therefore I'll publish my first book as soon as I graduate.
Thankfully, we girls are also invited for Azan's birthday and the venue is his farmhouse. Initially we all discussed that we shouldn't indulge in this program but eventually we agreed as it was a great relaxation era.
"Where the hell is my white top?" Maha screams as she tosses the clothes one by one on the floor just to search her white top, "why don't you guys ever have your belongings sorted out?" Ayra flings the white top on her face to which Maha gives her a flying kiss and rushes to get ready.
As always our room seems like an earthquake struck it, we're running late for the bus that Azan arranged for all of us. I'm all dressed up while they all are rushing around the room, searching for their necessities. Thankfully we packed our bags last night- actually Ayra did, I don't know what we would've done without her.
"Hoor could you please apply my eye liner?" Inaya insists and perchs straight before me, with a delicate movement I draw a sleek line on her hazel eyes. She's really beautiful and she's unaware of it. "It's done"
Ayra just rolls her eyes, but there's a fond smile on her face.
"We'd be late for everything, as usual." Inaya finishes putting on her earrings and stands up.
"Alright, I think I'm ready now."
Maha grabs her bag and heads for the door, but then stops abruptly. "Wait! Where's my phone?"
"In your hand," Ayra replies dryly, already halfway out the door. "Oh, right," Maha says sheepishly, and we all burst into laughter.
Just as we're about to leave, Inaya suddenly stops. "You guys go ahead. I'll join you shortly. I forgot something important."
"Pick it up we're not leaving without you" Ayra sternly affirms and we both nod in agreement "yes Naya we can wait" I exclaim but she seems persistent with us leaving. "Go guys save a seat for me" she pushes us out of the room and shuts the door.
"Is something off?" I ask, my voice curious and concerned
"If there is then I'm sure she'll tell us" Maha replies.
Shrugging, we make our way out, still chuckling at the chaos of our morning.
As we step outside, we see Azan waiting by the bus, checking his watch and looking slightly amused at our tardiness.
"Finally! Thought you girls would never make it," he teases.
"Don't worry" Maha says with a grin. "We'll never miss the chance of wasting your money" Azan laughs. "You and your chaos, anyways we can wait for Inaya for a few minutes I guess"
I grab my heavy bag and struggle to place it in the luggage compartment but suddenly my grip loosens on the bag as a muscular, veiny arm seizes it and smoothly places it in the underbelly compartment.
Ahad looks around me to spot any more bags but when he sees none he simply smiles at me "I can do it" I affirm not understanding why he has to meddle in everything I do?
"I'm sure you can but I can't let a lady lift heavy things in my presence especially when the lady is you" I press my lips together to resist the rush of heat within me, I believe all the boys of BHG are flirty regardless of their position as a badboy, football captain or a hearthrob lawyer; Zaid is the only member who's decent.
"I will appreciate it Ahad if you don't talk like this with me" I blurt out gathering every ounce of courage, but still the fear lashes on me that if Ahad's ego is punctured then I'll have to go through everything again.
To my surprise he steps back and stares elsewhere "I'm sorry to make you uncomfortable and I won't trouble you anymore" he says and settles on his seat. Guilt dawns on me for shutting up Ahad sikandar, even politely, I was rude with him. Ignoring how he helped us at our crucial moments. Why do I have to act like victim all the time? Why can't I remove the traces of my past from my brain so that it doesn't tarnish my present.
Realizing the need to make up for my wrong attitude, I take the vacant seat beside him and quietly draw in my surroundings.
Ayan is peeking out the entrance, Ayra and Zaid habitually debating with eachother and Maha is disturbing Rayan at the backseat. I glance at my watch and internally scold Inaya for being so careless.
Ahad on the other side appears to be flabbergasted.
"What?" I ask making him more shocked, why does he act so indifferently ahead of me "nothing, you changed your mind?" He points at my seat beside him.
"Don't worry I'll be sitting with the girls but I just wanted to say sorry if I was rude" finally the words escapes my mouth releasing the anxiety.
"It's okay Hoorain it's really nice that you were vocal about your feelings" sometimes I wonder he's too nice to land a finger on anyone but I've witnessed him breaking bones.
"Here you go" I hand him over a miniature, cute bottle that I bought from a mall few days back.
"What's this?" He asks analyzing it "consider it as a thankyou gift" he might've realized that what was this thankyou about as he didn't question much about it.
"This is wonderful, thankyou Hoorain"
I offer him a warm smile and get up for my original seat.
â¯â¯â¯â¯
HOORAIN'S OUTFIT
AYRA'S OUTFIT
INAYA'S OUTFIT
MAHA'S OUTFIT
â¯â¯â¯â¯
My magical tricks became successful in forcing these two bulls to join this trip and use this bus as our vehicle. I personally appreciated the idea of travelling there together instead of heading straight there, I'll take this as a road trip.
As I board the bus, all the grinning faces welcomes me however the person I am looking for is absent. I can't shake the feeling that hazel might be on her way as her friends are boarding the bus.
I'm not longing for her because I'm actually aiming to get her as my girlfriend but I genuinely enjoy her company.
Hypocrite.
After greeting Azan and leaving my boys to continue the antics with their girls, I stand at the doorway of the bus expecting Inaya.
Disappointment shoots through me as I didn't get a glance of her in a while but as I'm about to move in the bus, I feel the heat of her presence. This feeling resembles a Bollywood movie where the male lead senses the arrival of female lead, where my hair ruffles in the sudden air and a low music humms in my ear.
Stop being dramatic Ayan!
Grasping the door securely, I lean halfway out to get a clearer view. A smile dances on my lips as I see her sprinting towards the bus from a distance, her straight hair waving in the air, one of her hand is engaged with a sketchbook.
I beam and pound on the bus loudly, motioning the driver to start driving. Why? let's actually transform this scene into an iconic Bollywood one.
The engine roars and the wheels starts moving gradually, the girls screams for Inaya but I shrug them off.
Inaya's speed enhances, with newfound speed she hastily rushes towards the bus. I reach out my hand for her to grab as the bus starts rolling.
With a gentle movement she seizes my hand and gets on the bus, my hand on her waist to ensure the stability.
She releases my hand from her waist and pants after placing her bags on the floor.
"When you saw me running why didn't you ask the driver to stop? you idiot" she huffs as she regains her rhythm of breathing.
"You should be thankful to me for extending this hot hand" I raise my hand, turning it for a better view "you know how many girls die to hold it"
"No and I don't know but keep this thing in mind I'm not like those stupid girls you're chasing" she stands firm with one of her hand on her waist and others pointing at me.
"Oh excuse me. I don't chase after girls, girls chase after me" I utter while smirking being offended on her words.
Inaya laughs and then pretends to be swoon with a sarcastic look "wow! Ayan is so sweet, he's so cute, ye kitna handsome hai na"
(He's so handsome right)
I can't help but find her cute as she proceeds with her acting skills, fluttering her hazel eyes.
"Tum se Thora Kam hai na, tumhari moochein bari hai"
(Yeah but less handsome then you, your moustache is bigger)
I pat her cheeks as she shoots me a murderous look.
"At least I can grow them unlike you" now she pats my cheeks with a wicked yet beautiful smile on her face.
"Ye joke tha?" I ask
(Was it a joke?)
"Tha to" she replies
(Yes so?)
"I don't like jokes"
"I don't like you"
"Guys I feel like Rahul and Anjali have mistakenly entered this bus instead of Ayan and Inaya" an excited voice of Zaid interrupts us and I want to throw him off the window for it.
"Hey I was enjoying the show" Maha jumps in clasping a packet of chips in her hand, I truly enjoy the spirit of this girl but right now hazel is my main concern.
"But unlike them she's not his best friend" Ayra crosses her hands and stares at me with a serious expression. She's like the male version of Rayan, never smiling.
"Don't they look cute together?" Hoorain adds in the conversation, flashing her ocean blue eyes no wonder why Ahad fell for her, she's beautiful.
"Did I ever tell you how much I adore you Hoor darling?" She blushes at my comment while Ahad eyes conveys that I'll be found dead somewhere.
"Oh c'mon Ayan is so lively unlike Rhino" it doesn't take a genius to conclude that she's referring to Rayan who is leaning against the seat and busy scrolling his screen.
Me and Maha share a high five teaming up for the rest of this year. I admit, she's my favorite among these girls.
"If you keep on smirking like this then I might just fall for you" Maha teases, battling her eyelashes dramatically.
"Why wait Maha honey? Should we make it official right here?" I declare striking a wink at her.
"She's not your honey" Inaya steps closer to me while widening her eyes at me "already jealous Hazel?"
"In your dreams" she scoffs "ye ladka wakai m deewana hai"
(This boy is actually insane)
"Hayee ap jesi haseena sambe khari hongi to ladka deewana hi Hoga na?"
(If a gorgeous girl like you is standing then of course the boy will go insane)
Everyone in the bus awes at my flirting skills. Of course who won't get mesmerized when a handsome, charming boy flirts with someone.
"Ayan stop teasing this innocent girl" Ahad stands up teaming up with Inaya. Traitor is the only label I think is perfect for him.
"Thankyou Ahad Bhai" she utters earning a smile from him.
"I'm just awesome and she likes it but won't admit it" Inaya rolls her eyes clearly frustrated by my remark.
"If you're the definition of awesome then we all are doomed" Ayra sassily retorts while siding with Inaya.
"Don't be jealous Ayra just because someone makes life fun" Zaid smirks at Ayra who appears to be fuming in anger. She clearly dislikes me.
"Don't get started with your hatred now" Hoorain chimes in as the peace resolver "alright guys let's settle down and have some fun what say?"
Ahad is the first one obeying Hoorain's command, he's already smitten by her. "I'll be seeing you oftenly in the trip now hazel"
"I hope to see you never pervert" she retorts and pushes through me before finally getting comfortable in her seat.
"Chalo guys I don't want this bus to turn upside down right it's my birthday week so let's enjoy" Azan finally announces and we all brace ourselves for the fun. Most of the people in this bus are dead asleep like Rayan and the rest of us are enjoying our days.
The bus rumbles to life, and with a lurch, it begins moving towards the farmhouse. The excitement is palpable as everyone settles into their seats, the windows open to let in the fresh breeze. The mood is infectious; laughter, chatter, and the hum of the engine fill the air.
"Alright, everyone, let's get this party started!" Ayan announces, plugging his phone into the bus's sound system. The music starts blaring, and soon enough, the entire bus is vibrating with the beat of a popular song.
After boarding the bus my mood was immediately spoiled when I notice Ayra sitting in the bus, I started questioning my existence. Why did I have to meet her?
Before I can get comfortable, she started arguing with me about something practically I did. This girl is hard to decipher.
As the bus roars to life my dear cousin Ayan takes charge to entertain the people, everyone seems to enjoy themselves in his company except Rayan and Ahad - our forever grumps. Ahad is a little fun after invasion of Hoorain in our lives however Rayan continues to maintain his hard attitude, I really wish Rayan meets someone who'll drag him out of his dark realities and love him for who he is.
My gaze travels to Ayra who's detached from the bus and peeks through the window while devouring a chocolate. This girl is so reckless about her health, with the rate she has chocolates she'll get diabetes, does she even get her check up? Everytime she has to have something sweet in her hand no matter if we're in class, any debate or library.
Maha pushes me and runs where Ayan is gathering many people so that he can proceed with his fun session classic Ayan.
"Ok boring people no sitting allowed! This is a clubbing bus now!" She calls out flashing her green eyes. I can't help but awe at the ironic fate, all four of them have the rarest eye colors in Aurelian, making them the beholder of most beautiful eyes.
Hoorain jumps in on the fun and exclaims "start the fun"
Side eyeing Ayra I watch her movement shift as she stands up and walks to join their fun but unfortunately the bus halts with a jerk causing her to lose her balance, however I'm swift enough to place my hands on her waist as she grips my shoulder for support.
The heat of her touch and her stare swirls inside me, for the first time I notice something except anger in those grey eyes, like vulnerability, miserable state. She pushes and retrieves her position
"I think you didn't learn manners in kindergarten, heard of words like thankyou or sorry?" I question with a smirk adjusting my glasses.
"Kindergarten didn't teach me things that are essential for instance giving everyone the treatment they deserve" she steps ahead but turns back "I would rather fall and break my bones then to let you touch me"
"The feelings are mutual but the only difference is of mannerism. Unlike you I still believe in humanity, I'm a gentleman Ayra"
"Gentle and you?" She laughs "mere samne apni masoomiyat ka dhong mat karo"
(don't pretend to be innocent Infront of me)
With a chuckle I observe her precise steps towards Ayan but her mind appreciating her to leave me speechless.
She spins back causing our eyes to meet, her facial features remains stoic as always while I pass her a sassy smirk. After rolling her eyes she indulges herself with fun environment.
Ayan never misses an opportunity for fun, he grabs a water bottle and uses it as a makeshift mic "ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the best holidays of your life" he declares causing everyone to cheer.
I look around and observe everyone behaving in line with their character, the girls gawking at us aka BHG (a ridiculous name that Ayan rumoured), Ahad and Rayan are detached from the bus they're quietly waiting for our arrival, Ayan and those four girls are entertaining the bus.
As the music shifts to slower song, Ayan catches Hoorain and Maha making them twirl around, I chuckle thinking that Ahad must be biting his nails from jealousy.
As everyone indulges themselves in a dance chorus I can't help but observe Ayra, her genuine smile, the way her Stormy eyes sparkles like galaxy enveloped in stars, how did I fail to notice her breathtaking beauty? Maybe because I've seen her selfish version; how she ignores everyone else's sentiments for her own good. It doesn't matter for her if she compromises others' dreams. Her priority is herself and she won't hesitate to spill water on anyone's lifetime efforts, and no matter what I won't let anything in my motive of ruining her dreams in return.
I can't imagine the amount of fun we'll experience on this trip when I'm already beyond amused by the activities partaking in this bus.
Dancing and singing our hearts out with our peers excluding any unease about our future, I don't know when we'll get the chance to have fun like this. One day we'll all get busy in our professional dwellings and hardly acquire the opportunity to behave like this again; till then let's live our lives.
"How can he irritate you Naya? He's so fun" I exclaim swaying my body with Inaya "that's because he's your male version"
"Isn't he amazing then?" I retort while twirling "definitely not" Ayra jumps out of nowhere with Hoorain by her side "any member of BHG is just pathetic, Ahad Bhai is the only exception"
"Zaid is also great"
Truly Ahad Bhai is really cooperative when it comes to our questionable activities on the other hand Rayan rhino never plays a smile on his face and goes on calling me crazy.
"Hoorain to bohot Sharma Rahi hai oho"
(Hoorain is blushing alot oho)
I tease Hoorain as she looks at me with a puzzled expression, except her every one of us knows that Ahad Sikandar is interested in her "fazool batein hai saari" she nudges me and focuses on Ayan who's declaring something on his makeshift mic.
The energy shifts again as Ayan suggests a game of Passing the Parcel. He rummages through his bag and finds a hat, designating it as the parcel. "Alright, rules are simple. When the music stops, whoever has the hat has to do a dare!"
"Ayan I'll choose the music" I exclaim earning a nod from Ayan "sure Maha suit yourself"
I choose a perfect song matching the energy of this evening and the game begins.
The hat starts its journey around the bus, accompanied by the lively music blaring from the speakers. The energy is infectious, and everyone is on edge, waiting to see who gets the first dare. The music stops suddenly, and the hat lands in Hoorain's hands. She holds it up, her ocean-blue eyes widening in mock horror. "I already sense something ridiculous coming from you guys"
Everyone cheers and claps, eagerly awaiting her dare. I grin wickedly.
"I dare you to kiss anyone you like in this bus"
Her mock horror turns into a real one as she glares at me and screams internally 'Maha Aamir you're dead' I know I can be quite dangerous when it comes to dares. Quietly a glance at Ahad who's carrying terror in his eyes, only if he knew Hoorain won't kiss a guy in her dreams.
With a swift movement she kisses Ayra and everyone cheers at her diplomatic approach "she meant opposite gender Hoor darling" Ayan grins shyly "then she should've been more specific" Hoorain retorts and Ayra smashes Ayan with her protective reply "I know you expected her to kiss you idiot"
"Ignore her guys she's miss know it all" Zaid teases her eyeing her with his glasses "if you don't shut up then I'll break you glasses" she points at Zaid who's silently enjoying all this show, but before Zaid can retort Inaya interrupts them "we're here to enjoy guys let's not fight right"
"Bravo Hoor now let's start it again" I clap enthusiastically.
The hat starts its journey again, moving from person to person as the music plays. When it finally stops, it lands in Zaid's hands. A collective cheer erupts, and he rolls his eyes, bracing himself for whatever is coming.
This is going to be so amazing, I rub my hands with excitement for my next dare that'll surely provide a huge content of entertainment.
"So Zaid Mirza" with a grin I nod at Ayan "compliment Ayra non stop for 30 seconds"
Ayra's eyes pops up as she hears my dare, Zaid's reaction is mutually ridiculous. Everyone else explodes into cheers and appreciation for me, Ayan bumps his fist with me "you're definitely my partner I'm crime"
"This is going to be hilarious" while clapping her hands frantically, "Rival's speech for a rival this sounds interesting" Inaya exclaims taking her position beside me.
"Well done Maha" Ayan spins the bottle in his hand and passes it to Zaid "go on and give a speech about her"
He looks at Ayra with a smirk and strange twinkling in his eyes "ok let's get it done go on and roast me" Ayra rolls her eyes and stands firm against Zaid.
Zaid smirks and holds the water bottle that Ayan passes him, we all stand with Frozen expressions, he sighs and starts. "She's like a tornado that has the power to speak her mind, she gives it all of her"
He smirks and continues "she gives me a slightly tough competition as she's an academic worm"
He looks around and returns the bottle "I have nothing to say"
Ayra rolls her eyes as Zaid turns back to sit on his designated seat.
The hat makes it way round the bus again and after hearing my dares no one wants this hat in their hands, but this time the hat lands in my hand. Ayan's eyes glints with mischief but now it's my turn to see if he can match the level beyond my limit cuz I'm limitless.
"Give her a worst dare" Ayra shouts with fury in her eyes but I know she loves me.
"So maha your dare is to make Rayan laugh" everyone starts hooting for me to perform this impossible task, I cannot make this person smile let alone laugh.
I can't back off now this is the time to make this rhino laugh, "alright watch me guys"
I stare at everyone enjoying their time in this vehicle while I'm wasting my teenage years sitting at the back struggling to smile. At the end, the knowledge stays with me that they're making the most out of their lives, giving reasons to their parents to be proud of them while I'm stuck as a disappointment for them. I'll never be boy they'll be proud of, I'll always be labeled as the unwanted, undesired child.
Releasing a sigh I put my airpods back on, but then I catch a sight of Maha walking towards me, what is this crazy girl thinking to do now? A few days back I proposed her to be my fake date since mom's pressure was accelerating as the days passed but she refused my offer even though I agreed to do her life changing project.
"Hey Rhino" I don't know why this troublemaker calls me rhino, it's baseless and ridiculous but I can't refuse her, seeing how joyous she becomes when she calls me; I shouldn't spoil anyone's happiness.
"I'm not interested in anything crazy girl" but Maha being Maha sits beside me with a mischievous grin on her face. Great, what now?
Before I can react she starts tickling me, her finger darts to my sides and ribs. The entire bus roars with laughter as everyone watches her, I can't help but stare blankly to this crazy girl "are you crazy? Who am I even kidding with this question, it's a fact"
"What I'm crazy? You're insane who stares blankly after being tickled?"
"It's normal" I utter because I didn't flinch, I'm not ticklish.
"Ok I got a dare and it involves making you laugh" she says leaning against the seat "oh god! Mene tumhara Kya bigara hai Pagal larki?"
(What have I done to you crazy girl?"
"Then just laugh and I'll be gone" seriously? How can I laugh without anything and moreover how to laugh?
"Alright time for plan b" she starts with some exaggerated jokes that appears to be lame for me, who uses ant and elephant jokes?
"C'mon Rayan you have to laugh like this" Ayan says exaggerated "yeah Rayan my friend is trying too hard"
I should laugh but how?
Just as she is about to move away, the bus hits a bump and Maha involuntarily loses her balance, falling right onto my lap. Her eyes widenes in surprise "oh my god did I just land a goal in Captain's lap?"
What the hell?
The suddenness of this moment catches me off guard and I laugh loudly, unable to control myself "you're entirely crazy Maha"
The entire bus falls silent and they all stare at each other in astonishment but then they join the laughter.
"No way did Rayan just laugh?" Zaid says his eyes wide in shock. "Maha did the impossible" Inaya giggles, her expression mixing with astonishment "Ayan your dare is completed by my best friend now what you have to say?" Hoorain nudges Ayan who's busy holding his phone probably recording everything.
"I'm already recording it! I must say she's something else" Ayan says laughing so hard that tears brims in his eyes.
"So are you thinking to sit on my lap or should I say goal for the rest of this ride trouble" I whisper in her ear expecting her to blush or push me away but to my surprise she whispers back, "I don't mind it rhino but you're too grumpy for my company"
Unfiltered, shameless, crazy girl.
I chuckle as she stands up and joins rest of the people boarded on the bus, she's definitely something else.
As the bus rolls to a stop in front of the farmhouse, everyone's eyes widen in awe. The place is nothing short of magnificent. The farmhouse is a sprawling estate, with sleek, modern architecture that exudes luxury. Expansive glass windows reflect the beautiful greenery outside, and the driveway is lined with well-manicured hedges and vibrant flowers. A large, elegant fountain sits in the center of the circular drive, water cascading down in mesmerizing patterns.
Azan steps off the bus first, grinning widely as he takes in everyone's reactions. "Welcome to my humble abode," he says, clearly enjoying the moment. "This is where we'll be spending our weekend. A worker will be handing out the keys to your rooms shortly."
We all pile out of the bus, still taking in the sight of the lavish farmhouse. Inside, the opulence continues. The interior is a blend of modern and rustic, with high ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and plush furniture that looks incredibly inviting. Large chandeliers hang from the ceilings, casting a warm, welcoming glow. The living room features a grand piano and a massive fireplace, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Azan gestures to a man standing near the entrance. "This is John, our caretaker for the weekend. He'll give you the keys to your rooms."
John steps forward, a friendly smile on his face. "Hello, everyone. I'll be handing out your keys. The boys will be in one room with four beds, and the girls will have another room with four beds. Please follow me."
We follow John down a wide hallway, which branches off into several corridors leading to different parts of the house. Each corridor is adorned with tasteful art pieces and decorative plants.
As we reach the boys' room, John opens the door to reveal a spacious suite with four comfortable beds, a sitting area, and an en-suite bathroom. The decor is sleek and modern, with large windows offering a view of the gardens outside.
"Here you go, gentlemen," John says, handing over the key. "Make yourselves at home."
We start unpacking, and it's not long before the room is filled with our chatter and laughter. Zaid is already claiming a bed near the window, while Ayan is bouncing on one of the mattresses to test its firmness.
"These beds are awesome," Ayan declares, flopping down dramatically.
Back in the boys' suite, the energy is still high despite the late hour. Ayan is already planning his next prank, and it's clear that sleep is the last thing on his mind.
"Alright, guys," Ayan says, grinning widely as he pulls out the air horn he smuggled in. "Whoâs ready for an early morning wake-up call?"
Zaid groans, flopping back on his bed. "You're insane, Ayan. There's no way we're letting you keep that thing."
Ahad, the more serious one among us, shakes his head but can't hide a small smile. "Ayan, if you wake me up with that thing, then I swear you won't see tomorrow's sunrise"
Ayan laughs and stashes the air horn under his pillow. "Oh, come on, Ahad. Live a little. Besides, it's all in good fun."
I sit on my bed scrolling through his phone but look up with a smirk. "I'm with Ahad on this one. If that horn goes off at dawn, youâre on your own, Ayan."
Ayan just waves them off. "You guys are no fun. Where's your sense of adventure?"
Zaid, ever the practical one, gets up and starts looking for Ayan's hidden stash. "Let's see what else youâve got in your bag of tricks, Ayan. Iâm confiscating anything that looks remotely dangerous."
As Zaid rummages through Ayanâs bag, he pulls out a rubber chicken, a fake spider, and a pack of exploding confetti poppers. "Seriously, Ayan? Are we in elementary school?"
Ayan just grins and shrugs. "You never know when you might need a rubber chicken. It's a classic."
Ahad, trying to be the voice of reason, steps in. "Ayan you're not using any of this"
Ayan sighs dramatically but nods. "Deal. But you guys are missing out on the fun."
Just then, Zaid accidentally activates one of the confetti poppers, and the room explodes in a shower of colorful paper bits. Everyone bursts into laughter, and even Ahad can't help but chuckle.
"Well, at least now we know they work," I say dryly, brushing confetti off my bed.
Zaid looks at Ayan, shaking his head. "Youâre a menace, you know that?"
Ayan just grins wider. "And you love me for it."
We finally manage to settle down, we all finally decide to call it a night. As the room quiets down, I can't help but feel grateful for moments like these. Despite the chaos, there's nowhere else Iâd rather be than here, with my boys, creating memories that we'll laugh about for years to come.
Just as Iâm drifting off to sleep, I hear Ayan whispering to himself, probably planning his next prank. I chuckle and shake my head. Tomorrow is going to be interesting, that's for sure.