As the tension in the air began to ease, Professor Ali regarded James with a calm, steady gaze, gauging the emotional storm that had just passed.
Professor Ali
"Have you finally calmed down?"
James's brow furrowed, still caught in a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions.
James
"Why?"
A moment of silence hung between them as James's mind raced, grappling with the implications of what had just been said.
James
"Why do you think I resemble Sydney Carton?"
Professor Ali leaned back slightly, his expression thoughtful as he prepared to articulate his perspective.
Professor Ali
"It's quite simple."
He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle before continuing with conviction.
Professor Ali
"You're another depressed genius who deserves a chance."
The sincerity in Professor Ali's voice struck a chord within James, who felt a flicker of hope amidst his despair.
Professor Ali
"I wanna rewrite that story."
The professor's eyes sparkled with passion as he shared his thoughts, a fire igniting within him.
Professor Ali
"You see, when I first read *A Tale of Two Cities* when I was little, I hated the ending."
His voice softened, revealing a vulnerability that resonated with James.
Professor Ali
"Why did Sydney Carton sacrifice himself? He was my favorite character; he was the kindest and the smartest, and he deserved his own happy ending too."
James listened intently, captivated by the professor's fervent belief in the potential for change.
Professor Ali
"Why do writers sacrifice the heroes to save the less enjoyable characters?"
James could see the frustration etched on Professor Ali's face as he continued.
Professor Ali
"When I grew up, I realized that even in real life, good people die young."
The weight of those words hung heavily in the air, a stark reminder of life's harsh realities.
Professor Ali
"This is my doctorate proposal, the reason why I came to this place."
He leaned closer, intensity radiating from him as he laid out his vision.
Professor Ali
"I'm going to correct the path of those heroes, but I can't rewrite your story, James."
The professor's gaze locked onto James's eyes, conveying a sense of urgency.
Professor Ali
"Only you can do that."
James felt the gravity of Professor Ali's words sink in, yet doubt crept back into his mind.
James
"I can't change the past. Even if things turn out well for me from here on."
He shook his head, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.
James
"Even if I become a CEO of a million-dollar company, that won't change my past, and I'll never forgive myself."
Professor Ali nodded knowingly, understanding the depth of James's struggle.
Professor Ali
"That's why you need to make a decision now."
He paused for emphasis, his voice steady yet compassionate.
Professor Ali
"I'm not asking you to forgive yourself and forget the past right now."
James felt a flicker of resistance rise within him.
Professor Ali
"Your life is your own journey."
James looked away, grappling with the weight of those words.
Professor Ali
"Are you the type who takes off on a journey with no destination in mind?"
The question lingered in the air, challenging James to confront his own direction in life.
Professor Ali
"You need to figure out what your destination is."
He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a more personal tone.
Professor Ali
"Deep in your heart, do you wish to forgive yourself one day and find happiness again?"
James hesitated, the vulnerability of that question striking deep.
Professor Ali
"Or do you want to keep hating and tormenting yourself? Where would that lead you?"
He gestured toward James's family with a subtle nod.
Professor Ali
"You still have your younger brothers and a little sister, right?"
James's expression softened at the mention of his siblings.
James
"Yes, they are the only thing that matters to me now."
Professor Ali's eyes shone with understanding as he pressed on.
Professor Ali
"Do you think they would be happy if you keep living your life in self-hate and regret?"
The weight of that question hung heavy in the air as James considered it deeply.
Professor Ali
"You'll end up as a grumpy old man that can't love or care about anyone if you can't even love yourself."
James felt a knot tighten in his chest at the thought.
James
"So what do you want me to do?"
His voice was tinged with uncertainty, searching for direction amidst the chaos.
James
"Don't expect too much of me; so far I've only known loss and failure."
A reassuring smile spread across Professor Ali's face as he responded.
Professor Ali
"Don't worry."
He leaned forward slightly, excitement glimmering in his eyes.
Professor Ali
"I'll lead you to your first success."
James raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued by what was to come next.
Professor Ali
"I want you to become a leader of a group."
Confusion washed over James as he processed this new revelation.
James
"What?"
Professor Ali's enthusiasm was infectious as he explained further.
Professor Ali
"Student groups are funded and sponsored by politicians and huge companies; each one has its own ideals and agenda."
He leaned back slightly, gauging James's reaction before continuing.
Professor Ali
"I want you to become a top student and grab their attention. Then you'll have the chance to choose the one that suits you the most."
James felt a flicker of hope ignite within him at the prospect of seizing control over his future.
Professor Ali
"So far you've been living like a ghost on campus. Even if someone notices you, they will be from a new, weak group that won't serve your potential."
James chuckled softly at the metaphor but couldn't shake off his doubts.
James
"You have such high hopes for me."
Professor Ali grinned mischievously, his eyes sparkling with determination.
Professor Ali
"Come on, let's have a bet! I bet that if you do your best, you'll be one of the top students by the end of your freshman year."
A hint of skepticism crept into James's expression as he considered it.
Professor Ali
"To have a fair game, you must work hard. It won't be fair for me if you keep slacking. Give me a chance to see the result of the bet, okay?"
James sighed but felt an unexpected surge of motivation rising within him.
James
"Fine."
He smirked slightly at Professor Ali's enthusiasm.
James
"I'll give you a fair game—you weirdo."
Tylor watched from the sidelines, sensing the shift in energy between them. He stepped forward, his voice softening as he addressed James.
Tylor
"I'm so sorry for your loss."
His sincerity wrapped around James like a warm blanket.
Tylor
"But I still believe that it wasn't your fault."
The words hung in the air, offering solace amid James's turmoil.
Tylor
"Professor Ali is right; you shouldn't live your life carrying that guilt."
James shook his head dismissively but felt gratitude for Tylor's support.
James
"Whatever. You made me tell you such a long story."
He paused for a moment before asking with genuine curiosity,
James
"Did that help you figure out why he told you the story of Aladdin?"
Tylor chuckled lightly, acknowledging James's sarcasm while also reflecting on their conversation.
Tylor
"Well, you're right; I should do more research."
A sense of camaraderie filled the air between them as James sighed dramatically.
James
"Please don't tell me that I relived my trauma for nothing."
Tylor raised his hands defensively.
Tylor
"I promise you that I'll figure it out."
As their conversation shifted toward lighter topics, James couldn't help but feel a sense of connection growing between them—a bond forged through shared experiences and vulnerability.
—
Meanwhile, across campus, Nora received an unexpected phone call that would change her day entirely.
With determination in her voice, she spoke into her phone:
Nora
"Okay, I'll meet up with you."
She quickly added,
Nora
"There is this cafe that's close to campus; meet me there."
After hanging up, she took a deep breath, feeling anticipation bubbling within her.
Moments later, she arrived at the cafe where Zain awaited her.
With a friendly smile, she greeted him warmly.
Nora
"Hello! Thank you for waiting."
Zain returned her smile, genuine interest in lighting up his eyes as he replied,
Zain
"Hello, Nora. How are you?"
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the cafe, Nora greeted Zain with a soft smile.
Nora
"You too, Zain."
Meanwhile, across town, Manal rushed into the bustling student center, her eyes scanning the crowd until they landed on Ahlam.
Manal
"Ahlam, thank God you're here!"
Ahlam turned, curiosity piqued by Manal's urgency.
Ahlam
"What is it?"
Manal leaned closer, lowering her voice as if sharing a secret.
Manal
"I was looking for you; I have something important to say."
She paused, glancing around before continuing.
Manal
"Where is Maha?"
Ahlam pulled out her phone, tapping the screen quickly.
Ahlam
"I just called her; she's coming. We were supposed to work on a project together—that's why we are meeting up here."
Manal nodded, her expression serious.
Manal
"Oh, good. We must talk as soon as she gets here."
Just then, Ahlam spotted Maha approaching and waved her over.
Ahlam
"There she is!"
Maha greeted them with a bright smile.
Maha
"Hello, girls! Thanks for waiting for me."
But Manal's face was clouded with worry.
Manal
"Maha, we're in big trouble!"
Maha raised an eyebrow, concern etched on her features.
Maha
"Again? Seriously, we have enough problems already!"
Manal took a deep breath, determined to convey the gravity of the situation.
Manal
"I know! That's why this time we need to do something about it!"
Ahlam, eager to get to the point, urged her on.
Ahlam
"Just tell us already!"
Manal leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper.
Manal
"Okay, I just saw Nora with a guy wearing a fancy suit."
Her friends exchanged glances as she continued.
Manal
"I tried to get closer to them so I could hear what they were saying."
The tension in the air thickened as Manal continued.
Manal
"It's going to be bad for us if he's from another group."
She paused dramatically before adding,
Manal
"She seemed friendly with him—as if they were friends. We have no chance of recruiting her if all the big groups have their eyes on her too!"
Manal's voice trembled slightly as she recalled what she overheard.
Manal
"I think I heard him say things like, 'I'll see you later,' and 'call me whenever you need.'"
Ahlam raised a hand to calm Manal down.
Ahlam
"Calm down, Manal. He could be someone she knows—a friend or relative."
Ahlam leaned back in her chair, trying to rationalize the situation.
Ahlam
"How can you be so sure that he's from another group?"
Manal shook her head, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.
Manal
"They were meeting in the cafe that's a few blocks away from campus."
Maha chimed in, trying to offer a different perspective.
Maha
"That doesn't necessarily mean that he's a student."
She leaned forward, determined in her eyes.
Maha
"But don't worry; I'll check myself."
Ahlam looked at Maha skeptically.
Ahlam
"What are you going to do?"
Maha waved her hand dismissively, confidence radiating from her.
Maha
"I have my ways; don't worry about it, girls."
As they spoke, the atmosphere shifted when they spotted Battol entering the cafe.
Maha
"Good evening, Battol!"
Battol smiled back warmly.
Battol
"Hi, good evening!"
Maha's expression brightened as she continued.
Maha
"I came to properly say congrats to you."
She gestured around as if inviting everyone into the celebration.
Maha
"We should all celebrate you and Nora."
Battol shrugged modestly.
Battol
"Nah, you don't have to. I know how busy you must be."
He grinned, suggesting a future plan.
Battol
"Let's make a promise to throw a big party once we successfully pass all the courses."
Maha nodded enthusiastically.
Maha
"Alright, it's a deal then!"
Then she turned serious again.
Maha
"By the way, have you seen Nora today?"
Her tone softened with concern as she continued.
Maha
"I've been wanting to personally congratulate her too, but I couldn't reach her."
Battol furrowed his brow, contemplating for a moment.
Battol
"I don't know; she should be back by now. You can wait for her here if you want."
Maha shook her head apologetically.
Maha
"Thank you, but I need to go."
She glanced back at her friends before explaining further.
Maha
"I just came here because Manal said that she saw her an hour ago or so in a cafe with a guy, so I thought she would be back by now."
Battol's eyes widened in surprise at this revelation.
Battol
"Wait, what? Nora— in a cafe with a guy?"
She leaned in closer, intrigued and concerned.
Maha
"Yeah, a handsome tall guy in a fancy suit."
Battol's expression shifted from curiosity to suspicion.
Battol
"Who is he?"
Maha shrugged innocently.
Maha
"I don't know; you didn't hear it from me!"
With that playful warning, she waved goodbye and headed out the door.
Curiosity gnawed at Battol as she turned her attention back to Nora when she finally arrived.
—
As Battol approached Nora with an inquisitive look on her face, she couldn't hold back her questions any longer.
Nora
"What guy?"
Battol crossed her arms, determination in his voice.
Battol
"I'm asking you—who were you with?"
Nora feigned ignorance but couldn't help but feel the weight of his gaze.
Nora
"Who are you talking about?"
Battol pressed on, frustration creeping into his tone.
Battol
"Come on! You know what I'm talking about! The handsome, tall, and rich guy!"
Nora's eyes widened slightly at her boldness.
Nora
"How did you know that I met someone in the first place?"
She narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
Nora
"Were you stalking me?"
Battol shook her head vehemently.
Battol
"No, of course not! I heard it from Maha."
Nora raised an eyebrow skeptically.
Nora
"And how did she know?"
Battol sighed and explained further.
Battol
"She said that Manal saw you."
Nora's expression shifted as she realized the web of gossip surrounding her.
Nora
"Oh, I see."
Battol's excitement grew as she pressed for more details.
Battol
"So it's true!"
She leaned closer, eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Battol
"Tell me—who is he?"
Nora took a deep breath before revealing his name.
Nora
"His name is Zain."
Battol's interest peaked even more.
Battol
"And?"
Nora hesitated but continued with honesty.
Nora
"He was on a business trip; so he thought he could take a break and see me."
Battol's eyes widened in realization.
Battol
"So it's true that he's rich!"
Nora chuckled softly at his assumptions.
Nora
"Not really; he's just starting out his own business."
Battol leaned back slightly, still skeptical but intrigued.
Battol
"And why did he come to see you?"
Nora shot her an amused glance.
Nora
"Have you ever heard of privacy before?"
Battol rolled her eyes playfully.
Battol
"Okay, fine! You don't have to tell me; you're the mysterious prodigy after all!"
The two shared a light laugh before falling into a comfortable silence over dinner. However, as they worked on their assignments afterward, Battol's silence grew heavier, making Nora feel uneasy.
Finally ready to break the tension before bed, Nora decided it was time to share something important.
With a serious expression on her face, she spoke up softly.
Nora
"Zain is my older brother."
Battol's eyes widened in shock.
Battol
"What! You didn't tell me that you have a brother!"
Nora shrugged nonchalantly but felt guilty for not mentioning it sooner.
Nora
"I'm sure I mentioned it."
Battol shook her head adamantly.
Battol
"I would have remembered if you did."
Nora sighed and tried to explain herself.
Nora
"Anyway... I just didn't think it was important to talk about that I'm meeting him today."
Battol leaned forward with genuine curiosity.
Battol
"So why did he come to see you?"
Nora hesitated again before revealing more of their family dynamic.
Nora
"It's a long story... "
Flashback:
In that moment of vulnerability, Zain's voice echoed in Nora's mind as she remembered their last conversation.
Zain stood firm in front of their father with determination etched across his features.
Zain
"I'm leaving our home."
He took a deep breath before continuing passionately.
Zain
"I'm going to start my own business."
Nora recalled how heavy the atmosphere had felt during that argument and how it had led to Zain's visit today.
As memories flooded back into her mind, she knew this was only the beginning of unraveling their family's complicated ties and the challenges that lay ahead.
As the evening wore on, Zain leaned back in his chair, determination etched across his features.
Zain
"At first, I will give this a shot, to see how far I can go."
He looked at Nora, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.
Zain
"Let's have a deal."
Nora nodded, intrigued by the prospect of a pact between them.
Zain
"Promise me to do your best in your college, and I'll promise you to do my best in my work."
Nora's expression softened, and she felt a surge of motivation.
Nora
"Okay, I promise you that I'll do my best."
Zain chuckled, a playful challenge in his tone.
Zain
"Okay, then I shouldn't lose to my younger sister."
Nora smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie.
End of flashback.
And you agreed? Asked battol.
Nora
"Yeah."
Battol, who had been listening intently, interjected with admiration.
Battol
"Wow, he's truly a businessman."
She leaned forward, excitement evident in his voice.
Battol
"The way he made that deal with you, he's a man that knows exactly what he's doing."
Nora nodded, feeling a swell of pride.
Nora
"Yeah, I know."
But then her expression turned serious as she reflected on their relationship.
Nora
"But you know what bothers me?"
Battol tilted her head, curious.
Battol
"What is it?"
Nora sighed, her brow furrowing with concern.
Nora
"Even though he said that he'll keep in touch with me, I haven't heard from him in over six months."
Battol's brows knitted together in confusion.
Battol
"What do you mean?"
Nora's voice trembled slightly as she spoke about her brother's absence.
Nora
"He doesn't call or text me; he said that we should make time for each other yet he's always busy."
She looked down, feeling the weight of disappointment.
Nora
"Today was the first time I saw him in over a year and a half!"
Battol furrowed his brow thoughtfully.
Battol
"Perhaps he's busy; you should talk to him about it."
Nora nodded but felt a flicker of doubt.
Nora
"I did; he said that he wants to take me somewhere this week."
Battol's expression brightened slightly.
Battol
"See, he's trying."
He leaned closer, encouraging her to see the positives.
Battol
"Give him a chance; after all, you've been busy too. You're to blame for this as much as he is."
Nora sighed, realizing the truth in his words.
Nora
"Yeah, I guess you're right."
She took a deep breath, trying to remain hopeful.
Nora
"We'll see how things go."
Battol chuckled lightly, shaking his head at her dramatics.
Battol
"You're so dramatic!"
He smirked teasingly.
Battol
"You have a brother complex, don't you?"
Nora shot him an indignant look.
Nora
"No, I don't!"
Battol laughed softly as he continued to tease her.
Battol
"From what you told me, I think you've been fascinated by your cool older brother who started his own business despite his parents' disapproval."
He paused for effect before adding,
Battol
"While you were his obedient little sister, he was like a role model to you."
Nora felt a mix of embarrassment and pride at his observation.
Battol
"But you're different now. You're a gold medal champion and a student of a prestigious college."
He leaned for