Entrance Exam Day
Aliza woke earlier than usual, the weight of anticipation tugging at her heart. The sunlight streamed through her window, illuminating her study materials spread across her desk. Today was the day she would take the entrance exam for her dream job, and she was determined to prepare as best as she could.
After an hour of focused study, the soft call of the Azan-e-Fajr filled the air, grounding her in the present moment. She paused, taking a deep breath, then folded her prayer mat and offered her Namaz-e-Fajr with a peaceful heart. The spiritual tranquility of the morning gave her strength as she prepared for the day ahead.
With a final glance in the mirror, Aliza gathered her things, ensuring she had everything needed for the exam. She left home at 7:00 AM, the excitement tinged with nervousness. The exam center was a 45-minute drive away, and she wanted to arrive with plenty of time to spare.
By 7:45 AM, Aliza reached the center and found her designated exam hall based on her roll number. The sight of her fellow candidates stirred a mix of apprehension and excitement within her. As she entered the exam hall, she felt a knot in her stomach but steeled herself with determination. At precisely 8:30 AM, the exam began.
For the next two hours, she focused intently, her pencil moving swiftly across the paper as she answered each question to the best of her ability. When the time was called, she exited the hall, relief washing over her as she stepped back into the daylight.
---
Later That Evening
Aliza eagerly checked the results of the entrance exam, her heart pounding with anticipation. As she scanned the list, her eyes widened in disbelief. There, among the names, was her roll number.
"Ya hoo! I succeeded! Thanks to Allah!" she exclaimed, her voice echoing in the quiet of her room. Joy radiated from her as she realized she had ranked among the top candidates.
Days later, an official letter arrived, inviting her for an interview at the recruitment office. Aliza prepared meticulously, reviewing her notes and practicing her responses. The day of the interview dawned, and she arrived on time, filled with a mixture of excitement and nerves.
As she sat in the waiting room, she took a moment to breathe deeply, calming her racing heart. After an hour, a peon called her name. "Miss Aliza, it's your turn. Please proceed to the interview office."
Aliza stood, smoothing her blazer and entering the room. The interview panel welcomed her, and she took a seat in front of them.
"It's good to see that your academic record is excellent," one of the interviewers began.
"Thank you," Aliza replied, her confidence growing.
"So, Miss Aliza, do you know about the responsibilities of a satellite navigator?" the panel continued.
"Yes, sir. I have studied it. The role involves receiving radio signals from orbiting satellites to provide crucial information for various applications," she explained, feeling a spark of enthusiasm.
"Good! You have a solid understanding," the interviewer said. "This is your first experience. How will you handle it?"
"Sir, I know this is my first time, but I am passionate about this field. It's my dream to serve my country as a satellite navigator, providing timely information for disasters, floods, and celestial events," she answered confidently.
"Tell us about yourself beyond your academic qualifications," the panel requested.
"I'm hardworking, passionate, and dedicated to accomplishing my projects. I value honesty and cherish my friendships," Aliza shared, her sincerity evident.
"Thank you, Miss Aliza. We will contact you regarding our decision," the interviewer concluded.
Aliza left the recruitment office feeling a mix of happiness and uncertainty. She was proud of her performance but anxious about the outcome.
---
One Week Later
The wait for news felt endless. Then, one day, a letter arrived in the mail. Aliza ripped it open and read the words that made her heart soar. She had been offered the position of Satellite Navigator at SUPARCO!
"Mama! Mama! Aaliya! Look at this!" she shouted, unable to contain her excitement.
Her mother and sister rushed into the lounge, concerned about her loud voice.
"What happened? Why are you shouting so much?" her mother asked.
"Look at this letter! I got the job as a satellite navigator in SUPARCO!" Aliza exclaimed, her eyes shining with joy.
"That's awesome! But what's your joining date?" her mother inquired.
"Hmm..." Aliza checked the letter. "It's March 14, 2013."
Her mother's expression changed slightly. "That means you have only 15 days to report there."
"Yes, Mama," Aliza replied, excitement bubbling over as she turned to Aaliya, pulling her into a tight hug. "I'm so happy!"
---
In the Days That Followed
As Aliza prepared for her new journey, she felt a bittersweet twinge in her heart. "Mama, I'm going for my career, and you'll be here alone with Aaliya. She can be quite a handful," she said, a hint of worry in her voice.
"I know how she is. But don't worry about her. Just pack your things and prepare for this job. I'll manage," her mother assured her.
Aliza hugged her mother lovingly. "I know you'll be here for her. I love you, Mama."
"I love you too, dear," her mother replied, her voice tinged with emotion.
"Why are you crying?" Aliza asked, noticing her mother's tears.
"I'm just going to miss you, my daughter. You're leaving," her mother said softly.
"Mom, it's not that far! It's just Rawalpindi, only a two or three-hour drive. I'll visit on weekends," Aliza reassured her.
Her mother smiled through her tears. "That's what you have to do—just keep buttering me up."
"Do you really think I need to?" Aliza teased.
"Aliza!" her mother replied, half-exasperated, half-amused.
Aliza laughed, enjoying the moment. "I'm grown now, you see."
"Yes, I see that," her mother agreed. "You've grown up so much."
"I know you love me more than Aaliya," Aliza joked.
"No, I love both of you equally," her mother stated firmly.
"But I know you'll miss me more," Aliza insisted playfully.
"Okay, okay! I admit it—I love you more than Aaliya. Are you happy now?" her mother conceded with a laugh.
"Yes! Very happy!" Aliza exclaimed, feeling light-hearted.
After a few minutes, she gently pulled away from her mother. "Mama, can I go to my room to pack?"
"Of course, dear. Start packing. We should go shopping tomorrow for last-minute items," her mother replied.
Suddenly, Aaliya appeared, eavesdropping on their conversation. "Did I hear that right?"
Aliza chuckled, "What, dear?"
"Are you two planning for tomorrow's shopping?" Aaliya asked, narrowing her eyes.
"No, no! It was just a dream you overheard," Aliza said, trying to divert her attention.
"Excuse me! I'm not sleepy! I heard you clearly!" Aaliya declared.
"Oh! My good listener girl," Aliza teased, patting Aaliya's head affectionately.
Aaliya curled up on Aliza's lap, her eyes wide and playful. "I knew you were going away in a few days."
"So, what do you want?" Aliza asked.
"I've bothered you a lot, and I want to say I'm sorry for everything," Aaliya said sincerely.
"Ooh! My sweet little girl, I'm not angry. I forgive you for everything. I love you," Aliza reassured her.
"Thank you," Aaliya whispered, nuzzling into her sister's embrace.
"Just don't bother Mama too much, okay? Obey her and go to college on time. Your final exams are coming up, so concentrate on your studies. I want to see another gold medal from you!" Aliza encouraged.
"Ugh! I'll try, but it's difficult," Aaliya protested.
"I'll be giving you a lot of support if you don't," Aliza warned playfully.
"Look, Mama, what she said!" Aaliya giggled.
"I heard, and I agree. You must get excellent results in your finals. Not like your sister did," their mother whispered, playfully scolding.
"Mama! That's not fair! You always pamper her!" Aliza retorted.
"I'm not pampering her; I'm just making sure she excels," their mother replied.
"Okay, okay, time for bed, you two. It's getting late," their mother said, ushering them toward their rooms. "Aliza, you need to leave early tomorrow."
"Yeah, you're right. It's already 2:00 AM," Aliza realized, yawning.
---
The Next Morning
Aliza woke up early, the excitement of the day ahead fueling her. After getting ready, she had breakfast with her family. "Feroz, please bring my bags to the car," she called to the driver.
Feroz loaded her luggage, and soon her mother and Aaliya joined her for the drive to the airport. The atmosphere was a mix of excitement and sadness as they headed out.
When they reached the airport, Feroz helped Aliza with her bags. Aliza turned to her family, feeling a lump in her throat. "Goodbye, Mama. Goodbye