The next day, as usual, Karim and I were sitting in the library. The vast, quiet space around us was filled with the soft rustling of pages and the occasional whisper of fellow students. Sunlight streamed in through the large windows, casting a warm glow on the tables and bookshelves. I found myself staring into the distance, my gaze lost in the sky visible through the window.
Karim noticed my distraction and glanced at me with a concerned look. "What are you thinking, princess?" he asked, his voice gentle yet probing.
I looked at him, gathering my thoughts, and then shook my head slightly. "Nothing," I replied, though my voice lacked conviction.
"How's it nothing?" he pressed, his eyes searching mine. "Tell me what's bothering you."
I hesitated, unsure whether to share the turmoil inside me. But Karim had always been a good listener, and I felt a need to unburden myself. Taking a deep breath, I began, "Well..."
