As morning light filtered through the trees, Zain's heart softened as he looked down at Zayra, resting her head on his arm, her face peaceful in sleep. The tension in her features had eased, replaced with a tranquil expression. He smiled slightly, his fingers instinctively moving to brush a strand of hair away from her weary face.

The night had drawn them closer in a surprisingly intimate way, deepening their bond with every shared silence.

“Let’s head back,” Zain said gently, his voice warm and caring. “It’s morning, and our friends are probably wondering where we are.”

Zayra stirred, her voice tinged with both sleepiness and a hint of shyness. “Yeah, let’s go.”

As they walked through the forest, Zayra’s foot slipped on a patch of wet leaves. She gasped, about to fall, but Zain’s quick reflexes had her securely in his arms before she hit the ground. .

Zain’s eyes softened with concern as he steadied her. “Careful there. That’s why I worry about you going off alone. You always end up in some kind of trouble.”

Zayra looked up at him, her smile tender. “I know. But it’s comforting to know you’ll always come find me.”

With that, they continued walking, the moment lingering between them like a sweet promise. When they finally reached the camp, Eva and Ewan were waiting, their faces a mix of relief and curiosity.

“Zayra, where on earth were you all night?” Eva rushed over, her expression worried. “I was so anxious! I searched everywhere and couldn’t find you. When Ewan told me Zain went into the forest after you, I felt a bit better, but still…”

Lily, joining them with a mischievous grin, teased, “So, Zayra, you and Zain were out there all night? Sounds like a pretty intense bonding experience.”

Ewan, eyes sparkling with amusement, leaned closer to Zain. “Zain, was this your first time camping out with a girl? Did you two have a little adventure? Any campfire stories?”

Zain’s gaze hardened as he shot Ewan a pointed look. “Cut it out, Ewan. It was nothing like that. We were just making sure Zayra was safe.”

Eva, still concerned but slightly relieved, turned to Zayra. “Seriously, why didn’t you come back to camp? We were all so worried.”

Zayra, cheeks flushed, explained, “I was exhausted from all the walking. We found a cabin and decided to rest. I fell asleep before we could get back.”

Eva hugged Zayra tightly. “I’m just glad you’re okay and that Zain was with you. I couldn’t imagine what I’d do if something happened to you.”

Ewan chimed in with a grin, “Or did you end up telling each other your deepest secrets? Maybe you’re both planning a grand escape from high school?”

Zain, clearly annoyed, snapped, “Alright, that’s enough. We’re done here.”

Eva, sensing Zain’s frustration, gave him a reassuring smile. “We’re just glad everyone’s alright. Thanks for looking out for Zayra.”

As the group made their way back to school as the trip ended.
the teasing continued but was tempered by genuine relief and warmth. Zain and Zayra exchanged knowing glances, their bond growing stronger despite the playful jabs from their friends.