Chapter 2 - Date of birth and first confession

Chapter Two: Birthday and First Confession The next night was the night of Carla's twentieth birthday. A simple celebration was held by her parents at home, to which they invited a limited number of relatives and close friends. Of course, Youssef and Zain were among the invitees. Youssef arrived first, dressed in smart casual clothes, carrying a carefully wrapped box. When he handed Karla his gift, he said softly: "I know you don't like affectation, so I hope you like it." The gift was high-quality headphones; Something very practical, showing his precise knowledge of her study needs and her love of calm while revising. Karla smiled sincerely, feeling warm at his practical and appropriate thinking. About half an hour later, Zain arrived. His arrival was not ordinary. As soon as he entered, soft whispers began to spread among the audience. Zain had come carrying a huge box, decorated with a luxurious satin ribbon, and held in his hands a huge bouquet of red roses, which contained no less than seventy roses. His whole appearance screamed desire for attention and celebration, consciously ignoring the laid-back nature of the party. He walked towards Carla, eyes sparkling with passion. "Happy birthday, Carla. You deserve all the beauty in the world." Zain said in an audible voice, then handed her the gift and bouquet. Carla felt a little embarrassed about the public display, especially under everyone's gaze, including Youssef's calm gaze. She nervously opened the gift: it was a white gold necklace studded with small, shiny stones. It was an expensive piece, very beautiful, but too luxurious for Carla's simple taste. Later, while everyone was eating dessert, Zain dragged Carla to the quiet balcony, away from the noise of the hall. His face was tense, but his eyes sparkled with determination. "Carla, I can't wait any longer." Zain started speaking in a serious tone. "It's been a long time that you've been running away from your decision. I don't want to be just someone who chases you from afar. I want you to know that my feelings are real and deep." Carla took a step back, surprised by his boldness at this very moment: "Zain, this is not the right time. Please..." Zain interrupted her, his hands gently but firmly holding her shoulders: "I love you, Carla. I love you in a way that makes me want to arrange everything in my life for you. I want to be your lover, your partner, and start planning our future together. I'm not playing, I'm very serious. I want everything, now, with you." Karla was deeply shocked by his words. His love was sincere and strong, but it was also overwhelming. He was asking her to make a fateful decision on her birthday, in a tone that could not be postponed. Carla looked into his eyes, full of love and demand at the same time. She felt like the air had disappeared from her lungs. "Zain...I...I need time to think. This isn't easy." Carla whispered, gently pulling herself out of his grip. "I'm sorry. But I have to think carefully. Please, give me more time." Zain's expression changed from passion to deep disappointment. "Time? How long, Carla? Should I wait to see if there's a place for me in your life?" Carla felt guilty at the pain in his eyes. He was offering his heart, and she was receiving it hesitantly. "I'll give you an answer soon, I promise." Carla said, before leaving the balcony and returning to the hustle and bustle of the party, leaving Zain alone staring at the stars of the night, his great love hanging in the air. End of the second semester. Please support me so I can finish the story, if you liked it?