The next morning, Zayra went to school, her heart heavy despite the small joy of seeing Zain. She had only a few days left with him before leaving Milan because of her dad’s work, and the thought tightened her chest. She didn’t want to tell Zain—it would distract him from his studies, and she couldn’t bear to see him upset.

Taking her seat quietly, Zayra’s mind swirled with memories. Moments later, Zain entered with Ewan, and her heart ached knowing these days were slipping away.

“Good morning, Zain. Good morning, Ewan,” she greeted, forcing a smile despite her trembling voice.

Ewan replied, “Good morning, Zayra. I’m late for class—mock test today. I’ll see you at break.”

“Sure, Ewan,” she said softly, her gaze dropping as sadness crept in.

Zayra looked at Zain and said, “Zain, why are you standing there? Have a seat.”

Zain raised an eyebrow, teasing, “You seem to be in a good mood today. I thought you'd still be grumpy after yesterday's argument.”

Zayra shook her head with a small smile. “No, Zain. Bygones are bygones. Let’s just forget about yesterday.”

Zain shrugged with a grin. “As you wish, my lady.”

Zayra met his gaze, and they both smiled, a silent understanding passing between them.

Just then, the teacher walked into the class, accompanied by someone. It was a girl.

The entire class was stunned by her beauty. She wore a white full-sleeve shirt paired with a dark blue mini skirt, her long brown hair flowing gracefully in a high ponytail. A Cartier watch sparkled on her wrist. The room fell silent as everyone stared, mesmerized by her presence.

Zain’s eyes widened in shock. He couldn’t believe it—this girl was Aria.

The teacher, noticing the class's reaction, smiled and addressed Aria, "Aria, please introduce yourself to the class. Everyone is excited to meet you."

Aria flashed a charming smile and said, "Hey, everyone. I’m Aria. I just moved here from Rome because of my dad’s work. I’m looking forward to making new friends."

The class was still in awe, whispering to each other, completely taken aback by Aria’s sudden appearance.

The teacher said, "The seat in front of Zain and Zayra is empty. You can sit there, Aria."

Aria walked over to the seat, and as soon as she saw Zain, her eyes widened in disbelief. "Oh my God, Zain?" She looked at him in shock. "I can't believe it! You're here too?" Her voice was a mix of surprise and excitement. "What are the odds?"

Zain froze for a moment, clearly shocked. "Wait, what? You’re here? I thought you were only in Milan for a short time!" He looked at her, still processing the coincidence. "This is... unexpected."

Zayra interrupted and asked, "Do you two know each other? You and Zain?" She paused, looking at Aria. "Wait... I think I’ve seen you somewhere before, Aria. I just can't seem to remember where."

Zain watched Zayra, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. Why doesn’t she recognize her cousin? Aria is Arish’s stepsister—how could she not know?

He tried to make sense of it. Does she really not know about her? How could Arish have kept this a secret?

Zain leaned back in his chair, deciding to stay quiet. It’s not my place to get involved in their family matters, he thought. If Arish hasn’t told Zayra about Aria, he must have his reasons. It’s his story to share, and he’ll tell her when the time is right.

Aria said, "I think you’re Zayra, right? I saw you at Zain’s birthday party. I think that’s where you saw me. It’s just that we didn’t get a chance to meet properly. It’s good to meet you now, Zayra."

Zayra smiled politely and replied, "Good to meet you too, Aria. I’m looking forward to getting to know you better."

Aria gave her a warm smile, and the teacher resumed the class.

When the bell rang for break, Zayra turned to Aria and said, "Aria, would you like to have lunch with us at the cafeteria?"

Aria tilted her head slightly, her smile brightening. "That’s so kind of you, Zayra. I’d love to."

Zayra turned to Zain. "Zain, let’s go."

The group made their way to the cafeteria, chatting casually. As they settled down with their lunches, Ewan suddenly showed up, his usual cheerful grin plastered on his face.

Ewan pointed at Aria with mock surprise. "Wait a second. I think I’ve seen you before. Was it… Zain’s birthday party?"

Aria smiled warmly. "Yes, you’re absolutely correct. It’s nice to officially meet you now."

Ewan dramatically placed a hand on his chest. "Wow, my memory is on fire today! Nice to meet you too, Aria."

Just then, Lily and Eva appeared, their curiosity evident. Lily raised an eyebrow playfully. "Oh wow, who’s this stunning new girl?"

Eva smirked, crossing her arms. "Yeah, Zain, is there something you’re not telling us?"

Aria chuckled and gave a small wave. "Hey again! I’m Aria. I just moved here from Rome."

Lily’s eyes lit up. "Rome? That’s so cool! Do you, like, live in a mansion or something?"

Eva nudged Lily. "Seriously, Lily? That’s your first question?" She turned to Aria. "Ignore her. I’m Eva, and I’m the sensible one here."

Lily gasped in mock offense. "Sensible? Please, I’m the life of this group!"

Aria laughed, already feeling at ease. "Well, I don’t live in a mansion, but I’d say it’s nice enough. And I can already tell you guys are going to make this school a lot more fun."

The group laughed, the atmosphere growing light and friendly as they continued to chat and bond over their lunch.

They were all having fun, chatting, laughing, and bonding with one another.

Zayra smiled along with them, but her heart felt heavy. These moments of friendship are so fleeting, she thought. I’m leaving soon... How do I tell them? I’m going to miss this—miss them—so much.

Her sadness lingered beneath her smile, unnoticed by the others.

Trying to hide her sadness, she listened as Zain asked, “Aria, why did you decide to stay? I thought you’d be gone by now.”

Aria smiled. “My father has work here that’ll take time, so we decided to stay.”

Zain nodded. “That makes sense. If you need anything, we’re here to help.”

Aria looked around and said, “Thank you, everyone, for this moment. You’re all amazing.”

Zayra’s smile wavered as she looked at her friends. She wanted to hold on to this moment forever, but the reality of her impending departure loomed over her.

The bell rang, signaling the end of their break. They all got up, heading back to class, but Zayra couldn’t shake the sadness in her heart. I’ll never forget this, she thought. Even if it’s temporary.

They went back to class.

In class, Zayra turned to Zain and asked, "Zain, would you like to come watch a movie with me tonight? I actually have two tickets, and Lily and Eva are busy preparing for exams. I thought you might want to take a break from your studies and join me. But if you're busy, it’s totally fine."

Zayra hesitated for a moment, wishing she could spend some time with him before she left.

Zain was a bit taken aback by her invitation, but his face softened as he smiled. "I’d love to watch a movie with you, Zayra. Even if I were drowning in work, I’d always make time for you."

Zayra looked at him, her lips curling into a smile. "What’s with all these cheesy lines, Zain?" she laughed, her heart skipping a beat.

He grinned. "Whatever you say, Zayra. Let’s meet at 7, then."

Zayra nodded, her heart feeling lighter at the thought of spending time with him.

The bell rang again, signaling the end of the school day.

Zain and Zayra were standing together, and he leaned in, murmuring softly into her ear, "Bye, Zayra. See you at the cinema."

Zayra smiled and nodded, her heart fluttering at his words.

Just then, Aria approached them and asked, "What are you two talking about?"

Zayra quickly replied, "Nothing. Let’s go. Why are we still here? It's after school."

With that, they left together.

Zain and Zayra were both thrilled that they would get to spend time together at the movies.

But little did they know, destiny had other plans.