Chapter21:

_Leah's POV_ After we finished eating, Tariq and I settled in to watch another movie. The light-hearted atmosphere between us continued, and Tariq kept teasing me, making little jokes that brought a smile to my face. The tension of the day had melted away, and for a brief moment, everything felt almost normal. “So, what do you want to watch next?” Tariq asked, leaning back on the couch, his eyes gleaming with mischief. I shrugged. “Something that won’t make me spill more water on you,” I teased. Tariq chuckled. “Fair enough. I’ll keep my distance this time.” He winked at me, and my heart fluttered despite myself. Just as we were about to start the movie, Susan appeared at the door. “Tariq, could you help me downstairs for a moment?” she asked, her voice kind but insistent. Tariq nodded and started to get up, but I quickly spoke up. “Do you need help with anything, Susan?” Susan shook her head with a gentle smile. “No, Leah, don’t worry. You have been through enough today. You need to r