If I ever had to get rid of someone, I'd make sure not even their bones remained.
I'd throw them into acid, let them dissolve until nothing but dust was left… then pour it all down a well. No one would ever find out it was me.
The chilling thought was cut short by a familiar voice:
Eli (GPS Voice): "In one hundred meters, turn left."
Me: "Of course, Eli darling. Just tell me what you want."
Nava groaned beside me.
Nava: "Sometimes I seriously doubt you even have a brain. Who talks to a GPS app? And worse—who flirts with it?"
Me: "This isn't just some app. It's my savior. Without her, we'd still be lost at the corner."
Nava: "I want to play music. But no—your precious Eli has been my rival for a whole week."
Me: "Sorry I wasn't born with a built-in map in my head. If you want me to stop relying on her, you'll have to deal with my sense of direction first."
Eli: "You have arrived at your destination."
Me: "Thanks, love. A kiss for you. Now… where should I park?"
Nava: "What? Eli doesn't tell you that?"
Me: "No, sweetheart. That's when I rely on your eyes."
After a few frustrating rounds, I finally found a parking spot. Checking my watch, I cursed.
Me: "Hurry, Nava. We've got five minutes."
We ran down the corridor. Just as our professor reached the classroom door, we caught up.
Professor: "Go inside."
We slipped into our seats. He scanned the roster, then glanced at the new face.
Professor: "It seems we have a transfer student. Mr. Mostoufi?"
Him: "Yes, sir."
Nava twisted around, eyes sparkling.
Nava: "Finally! Thank God, a good-looking guy on campus."
I pinched her arm.
Me: "Shut up. It's not like you've never seen a boy before."
Nava: "Not like him. He's… different."
I sighed.
Me: "Wipe that drool off your face before everyone notices."
I kept my eyes on the board through the lecture, but my mind wasn't on equations. It circled endlessly around darker things—violence, blood, erasing lives. I'd changed my life, tried to live like everyone else. But my mind… it refused to change. The ashes of my cursed past still clung to me.
The slam of the attendance book snapped me back.
Professor: "Class dismissed."
As I packed my books, Nava leaned close.
Nava: "Let's go welcome him."
Me: "Are you insane? We've got a thousand things to do at home."
Nava: "It'll take ten seconds."
I pressed a hand to her forehead.
Me: "You're burning up. Is this… the fever of love?"
She only smirked.
Nava: "Not yet. But I like him."
I stared. She wasn't joking this time.
Me: "So what, we walk up and say hi like idiots?"
Nava: "Well… yeah."
I laughed out loud.
Me: "You're hopeless. Come on, let's go home. I'll teach you how to talk to guys without embarrassing yourself."
As we walked out, I couldn't help but glance back.
He was tall, with sun-kissed skin, brown curls, and those heavy-lidded eyes that were far too easy to drown in.
We had no more classes that day, so we headed straight home. Boxes and cartons cluttered the living room. I took one look at the chaos, exhaled sharply, and muttered:
"Great. Just great."
It was eight at night when we finally finished unpacking.
I collapsed on the couch, half-dead.
Me: "Listen, I'm saying this now—I am not cleaning this house again until the end of the semester."
I grabbed my phone off the table.
Me: "So… what do we eat?"
Nava: "Bandari."
I ordered, then hung up.
Me: "They say no delivery. Should we go out instead?"
Nava: "I don't feel like it."
Me: "Don't act lazy. It's just down the street."
Dragging her off the couch, I forced her to get ready. She grumbled the entire way to the restaurant.
Nava: "Ugh, I'd rather starve. Who doesn't have delivery service these days? Close the damn restaurant if you don't! I'm exhausted… I'm literally dying…"
Me: "Shut up, idiot. We're here already."
I pointed at a table.
Me: "Sit. I'll get the food."
I checked my sandwich to make sure there were no tomatoes. Lowering my head, I muttered as I walked back:
Me: "Here, eat your damn food and stop whining, you little—"
Before I could finish, Nava suddenly shouted:
Nava: "Oh! Baby Shayan, you're here!"
She yanked me down beside her and pinched my arm.
Blinking, I looked up.
And froze.
Her crush—Shayan Mostoufi—was standing right in front of me, along with another guy. His mouth was half open, like I'd interrupted him mid-sentence. His eyes, however, were fixed directly on me.
Shayan stepped forward and offered his hand.
Shayan: "We've already been introduced, but… I should do it properly. Shayan Mostoufi. Your classmate."
I shook his hand.
Me: "Nice to meet you."
He gestured to the guy beside him.
Shayan: "This is my brother, Shahan."
I gave a polite nod.
Shahan, on the other hand, didn't bother with manners. He just scanned me from head to toe with a blank expression.
Shayan: "Shall we?"
Shahan: "Yeah."
Shayan smiled apologetically.
Shayan: "We'd love to talk more, but unfortunately, we have to go."
I looked Shahan up and down again and muttered under my breath:
Me: "Clearly. You seem to be in a rush."
They left after a brief goodbye—well, Shayan said goodbye. Shahan just walked off like a damn ox, not a single word.
When they were gone, I snapped:
Me: "What's with that guy? Didn't even say hi or bye. Who does he think he is—"
I stopped when I noticed Nava glaring at me.
Me: "What?"
Nava: "Says the girl who kept her head down and blurted out whatever came to her mouth. Ever heard of self-control? Or at least some decency in speech?"
Me: "Oh, please. You're the same one who was cursing out the entire world five minutes ago."
Nava raised a brow, smirking.
Nava: "Fair point. Anyway… forget that. Did you see Shahan? He was… something."
I dropped onto the chair with my sandwich.
Me: "Unbel
"Honestly, it doesn't matter… one's mine, one's yours. The important thing is, no one gets left out."
Shahan was seriously good-looking. It was like his mother had a masterclass in creating beautiful people.
Tall, over six feet. Fair skin, curly brown hair, big brown eyes… and lips that were… well, undeniably noticeable.
(I swear, it's not my fault he looks so attractive!)
I woke up to the sound of my phone. Half-asleep, I answered:
– Hello…?
– Still sleeping? Get up, class starts in half an hour!
Sleep vanished instantly. I cut the call, rushed to get ready, and ran out of the house.
Stopped at a red light, my phone rang again.
– Awake yet?
– Yeah, I'm on my way.
– Check the time.
I looked at my watch.
– Naaaava! I'm going to kill you, you little brat!
I slammed my hand on the steering wheel. Pain shot up my arm. I shook my hand in the air, yelling:
– Don't even think about coming home today! You'll owe me big time!
Class was at eleven, and it was only 7:30. I noticed the honking behind me—the light turned green. I drove forward and parked nearby.
What now? I was awake, no energy to go home… shopping? Beach?
I freed my feet from my shoes and placed them on the cold, damp rocks. Waves crashed fiercely against the stones, splashing my face. I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath.
I didn't want anything to ruin my peace… but my mind had other plans. In the silence, memories I didn't want started surfacing.
I'd kept only four people from my past:
Nava, my friend who became the sister I never had.
Jackson, my brother.
My mom.
Amir, my cousin—the best person that came into my life after… that incident.
Time passed without me noticing. The air warmed, so I decided to go shopping.
I was staring at a dress, unsure if I should buy it. I wished that idiot had been with me.
I spun around—and bumped into someone. I grabbed my forehead.
– Ah! Sorry!
A familiar, cold voice said:
– Looks like you have a habit of walking without looking.
I looked up… it was him. Shahan.
– Being rude must be a habit too, huh?
He frowned.
– After seeing your "manners" last night, don't lecture me on politeness.
I remembered last night… and fell silent. I told myself: I'm a 21st-century adult. I need to act accordingly.
– Okay. Let's start fresh. Introduce ourselves.
He blinked, surprised.
– Why are you looking at me like that?
– We should get acquainted. Why not?
– How old are you?
– 26.
– Good. You've reached adulthood. Shouldn't you act your age?
I rolled my eyes.
– Are you trying to mess with my head? Sorry, but…
I cut him off:
– Okay, okay. Bring your voice down. I didn't want to "act adult." Honestly, it doesn't matter how I talk to you—you're a fool. People haven't invented a way to speak "fool" yet, so don't expect me to communicate with you.
– You mean I'm a fool?
– Yep.
I brushed past him and lightly bumped him. He grabbed my arm and held it tight.
– No one's ever treated me like this.
I stared into his eyes without fear.
– The world came, it just hadn't hit your luck until now.
A voice interrupted:
– Mr. Mostoufi.
He clenched his jaw.
– What do you want, Oliver?
– The boss has arrived.
He let go of my arm.
– Guide the lady outside, let her shop somewhere else.
I snapped:
– Not a chance. I'm shopping here.
– This place belongs to me. You're not allowed.
I stormed out, not wanting to see his face anymore.
After class, I searched for Nava to go home together. Her laughter rang behind me. She was sitting with Shayan. The moment she saw me, she stiffened.
– Well, well, Nava.
– Relax! I'm fine.
I had no energy to argue.
– Fine, I'm going home. You coming?
– Yeah.
In the car, I explained everything to her. She scolded Shahan for me. After that, I stopped thinking about him—no point.
A week passed. Shayan and Nava's bond grew stronger every day. I thought Nava couldn't charm anyone—but I was slowly reconsidering.
One day, class got canceled. Nava jumped for joy:
– No class! Let's go shopping!
I wanted to stay home and sleep, but she wouldn't take no for an answer.
– Come on, Jenin, it's no fun alone.
After much pleading, I gave in.
…
We ended up at Shahan's shopping mall again. That dress I had been eyeing was there. Panic hit me.
– Nava, we need to leave now.
– Why? The dress is nice! Maybe there's something better ahead.
I pulled her arm to guide her out.
– Look, I'm sleep-deprived, but you're not blind. Shouldn't you have noticed where we are?
– Where even are we?
– Shahan's mall.
– Hello!
Both of us turned. Shayan greeted us.
– Leaving? But you haven't bought anything! This place is mine. Whatever you want, it's on me.
Nava smiled.
– Thanks, but we have to go… late for class.
Shayan chuckled.
– Didn't you hear? The professor isn't coming. Shop freely. I'll catch up in a few minutes.
He gestured to Oliver:
– Take care of them. Buy what they want, bring it.
No chance to argue.
I stared at Oliver, who sized me up and said:
– You're the lady Shahan mentioned?
– Shayan knows. That's enough.
I grabbed Nava's hand and moved. He followed silently.
– My reputation…
– What reputation? Shayan's got your back.
We neared the exit. Shahan came toward us.
– Why are you leaving empty-handed?
He gestured to Oliver:
– Bring a complete makeup set for the lady.
Nava started to refuse, but Shahan interrupted:
– Don't be shy. If you're not in a rush, come upstairs. Refreshments are ready, and so is your gift.
He waved toward the elevator.
– This way.
Nava looked at me for approval. I nodded.
– I have to make a call. You two go ahead.
Shayan and Nava went, but Shahan paused. When they were far enough, he muttered:
– I thought I made it clear—you can't come here.
I groaned.
– Fine.
I left the mall, got in the car, reclined my seat, and tried to sleep. A tap on the window woke me—Nava.
– Seriously… why didn't you come?
– So he wouldn't kick me out again?
She handed me a bag.
– I think that's a peace offering.
I tossed it in the back seat.
– Twice he threw me out. Now he wants to apologize with a dress? Really?
Nava shrugged:
– I don't know, but you'll see him a lot more.
– Why?
– Shayan's a gentleman. Kind, polite… and I think he likes me too.
We spent the ride talking about Shayan. He really was a perfect choice for Nava.
I changed my clothes and finally let myself melt into my lover's arms.
But the envelope in the corner of the room kept distracting me. I pressed my eyes shut tightly.
"Come on, girl! Didn't you want to sleep all day?"
My stubborn curiosity finally surrendered to sleep. I pushed the blanket aside and picked up the envelope.
Inside was the same dress I had been staring at when I bumped into Shahan.
There was also a note at the bottom:
I don't know how to apologize properly, and this is the best I can do to declare peace.
I smiled and placed the note in my bedside drawer.
++++++ One Month Later ++++++
Everything was moving at lightning speed. I had fully adapted to this calm life and felt grateful to have escaped that mess.
Today was Shayan's birthday, and Nava had been fussing all morning: "What should I wear? What should I wear?"
Over the past month, we had become really close, practically spending almost every day together.
"Hey, Jenin, do you think my red dress goes with my black shoes? Should I wear it?"
"Nava! I swear, if you say 'what should I wear?' one more time, I'll hit your foot so hard you won't be able to walk!"
Seeing her helpless face, I felt a little sorry for her. I rolled my eyes.
"The eggplant dress is perfect."
"Okay, then I'll go put it on."
As she headed to her room, she added:
"You should get dressed too, we're running late."
To avoid her complaints, I went to my room.
I put on my black evening dress, sat in front of the mirror, touched up my makeup, and finally straightened my hair. I left half of it down over my shoulders, and tucked the other half behind me.
"Nava! Hurry up, we're running late!"
I sat on the couch, waiting for her.
"How do I look?"
She lifted her dress slightly and twirled. I gave her a thumbs-up.
"You look amazing!"
"Shall we go?"
We got into the car and drove to the location Shayan had sent.
I grabbed my purse and stepped out. The phone rang, and as I took it out, I said:
"I'll answer it and come right after."
"Okay, hurry up."
It was Jackson calling.
"Hey, the most beautiful sister in the world, how's my favorite girl?"
A small smile tugged at my lips.
"I'm great. How are you?"
"I'm good too. Just wanted to let you know my assignment is finished, and I'll be coming to see you soon."
After ending the call, I spun around and bumped into someone.
They ignored me completely and started picking up their scattered belongings.
I snapped:
– Are you blind or what?
_ Sorry, I didn't notice.
They helped me gather the things and continued:
– Please be careful.
_ I'm sorry.
I shook my head and walked past them.
Shahan was standing by the door. Damn it, I hadn't even noticed he was here.
I was about to give up on the party and leave when I heard his voice:
– Really forgetful, huh?
I ignored him and kept walking.
– Where are you going, Miss Bold? Has a mouse eaten your six-foot-long tongue?
I turned to face him:
– No, I just remembered this place is yours too, so I won't step into your house.
– It's mine, but you're not my guest.
I couldn't leave Nava alone, so I set my pride aside.
Shahan took a step forward and opened the door for me.
I raised my eyebrows in surprise; it seemed he actually knew a bit about being a gentleman.
– Could you show me the bathroom?
He glanced at his phone, which was ringing, and pointed to the door.
I entered the restroom and left the door half-open.
Eavesdropping was one of those bad habits I had kept from before.
Shahan said:
– Boss said he's satisfied with the shipment; we made a good profit.
– You know I won't do that. Our deal didn't include human trafficking.
I leaned against the wall, trying to pull myself together. Why wouldn't this damned fate leave me alone?
I stepped away from the door, trying to silence all the noise in my mind; I didn't want to create more stories in my head. Once tonight was over, I wasn't going to see them again; I would keep my distance.
I took a few deep breaths and stepped out.
I scanned the room for Nava but didn't see her.
I sat on a couch and messaged Nava: (Where are you?)
I was alone on the couch. Some university friends were around, but after the conversation a few minutes ago, I decided not to expand my four-person circle and not get close to anyone.
For the thousandth time, I checked my phone, but there was no sign of Nava. I started to worry.
Shayan wasn't around either, and he was definitely with her.
I looked for Shahan to get some news. When I got close, he noticed me and stared in surprise.
He was standing with a few men and women, and a pretty girl was holding his arm.
Seeing me staring and walking toward him, he moved away from them and approached me. Because of the music in my ear, he said:
– What's wrong?
– Where's Shayan?
– I don't know.
– Nava isn't here either. Can you call her and check if she's with him?
He nodded and said:
– Let's go upstairs; my phone is in my room.
He opened his room door, picked up his phone, and dialed. He went toward the door and closed it to reduce the noise.
– She's not answering.
My anxiety spiked; what if something happened to them?
I called Nava on my own phone:
– She's not answering either.
– They're probably nearby; they'll show up soon.
– I've been waiting for an hour…
I was dialing Nava's number over and over, but she didn't answer.
My hands were freezing and trembling slightly.
Shahan took the other person's number.
_ Oliver, where's Shayan?
_ ...
He said angrily:
_ You either listen to me or him.
Then he hung up the phone.
_ Nava is with Shayan?
_ Where did they go?
_ I don't know. The guards didn't go with them; they weren't allowed to.
I had seen a bulky man accompany Shayan a few times, but I never thought about why he had a bodyguard.
Now all those dark thoughts flooded my mind: what if he's a thief, or maybe a trafficker, or even a killer?
Where does all this money come from—this mansion, this luxury birthday party?
The things they said to that man kept replaying in my head, and combined with my own cursed past, imagining what they could do to him was driving me crazy.
_ Why does Shayan have a bodyguard?
He looked up.
_ What?
I shouted:
_ Why does Shayan have a bodyguard? Where's my friend? Are you human traffickers or selling girls?
While yelling, I was punching Shahan's chest.
_ How could I, such an idiot, not notice all this? I gave my friend to a killer!
While trying to lock my hands in his big ones, he spoke in a completely calm and relaxed tone:
_ Okay, calm down. If they don't return within half an hour, we'll go after them.
Suddenly, the music stopped.
I looked at Shahan in surprise.
He let go of my hands and walked toward the door, but before he could reach it, someone else slammed it open.
My gaze darted between myself, Shahan, and the two police officers at the door.
_ Arrest them!