“Don’t you ever cry again, Miss Zarish,” he said in a strict but mild tone. “I would rather die than see tears in your eyes.”

“Once a sarriyal, always a sarriyal, she thought.”

“Why did you leave my hand? I’ve never felt so good, she thought. I felt good too, he thought.”

“What kept you distant from me?” she asked. By now, she had regained enough confidence to start a discussion.“Fear,” he replied.“What kind of fear?” “Fear of facing people’s objections. Fear of putting both of our lives at risk. Fear of exploiting your reputation and mine as well. Fear of beginning a new relationship with you when everybody already knows I am a mentor to you. Fear of…losing you and never having you again in my life.” He struggled with words while speaking the last line.“I love you Ahmar and I would not leave you. Ever.”

“I’m . . . accustomed to being alone. There are times when alone is the best place to be. I enjoy my own company.”

“I don’t want to let you go. Not now. Not ever.” While she said this, tears streamed out of her eyes. “I’m here with you. Always,” he murmured softly against her hair. “I love you, Ahmar. I love you so much,” she whispered.”

“Never judge a situation merely with a negative perspective. Look at the positive side too,” he added. “And if you do that, you will eventually feel better.”

“I like the change then.” He held her hand again. “Change is inevitable and sometimes it is good.” He smiled.”

“Everything is a part of destiny’s plan and I believe true love awaits its destiny.”

“All I ever wanted is you, Miss Zarish,” he said while pulling her closer to himself.”

“Don’t you ever cry again, Miss Zarish,” he said in a strict but mild tone. “I would rather die than see tears in your eyes.”