Mala and Albab faced each other on the deserted football field, with the setting sun behind them. They had agreed to a private match, just the two of them.
The game commenced, and Albab swiftly took the lead by scoring two goals in quick succession. Mala struggled to keep up, her movements sluggish and awkward.
As the match progressed, Albab's advantage seemed insurmountable. However, Mala refused to give up and pushed herself harder with determination.
Amid their clash on the field, their eyes met, momentarily forgetting about the game. Albab couldn't help but admire Mala's resolute expression, feeling a flutter in his chest.
Mala also felt a spark, but she dismissed it immediately and focused on the game.
As the sun descended below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the field, Albab scored another goal, making it 3-0.
But Mala persisted and scored two goals in rapid succession. The score was now 3-2 with only minutes left on the clock.
In their struggle for possession of the ball, their hands accidentally touched, sending a surge of electricity through both of them. They exchanged a glance, and the tension between them was tangible.
The outcome of the game hung in balance as Mala's perseverance paid off when she scored an equalizer at 3-3.
The match entered extra time, and the intensity was almost unbearable. However, Mala's momentum had shifted as she scored the winning goal securing a 4-3 victory.
As they stood there after the final whistle blew amidst chirping crickets in the background,the tension was palpable in the thick air.
The sounds of the cheering crowd reverberated in the air, causing Albab's face to twist with a mix of surprise and anger. It was the first time he had experienced defeat on the football field. The mocking chants of "Shehzade har gaya!" (The prince has lost!) only fueled his fury. Mala hurried to catch up with him as he stormed off the field, her tone filled with worry as she asked what was wrong and if he had forgotten his promise.
Albab's determination shone in his eyes as he replied through gritted teeth that he always keeps his word. Mala accompanied him to his room, searching his face for any signs of injury and reassuring him that he seemed fine. But Albab's demeanor remained cold, denying any hurt.
Mala's suspicion grew as she pointed out that Albab had lied and worried his father. In a hushed voice, Albab confided in her to keep it a secret, and for her to bring him medicine every day under the guise of a routine check-up. He trusted her to keep this information to herself.
As Mala contemplated deceiving Albab, she put on a sweet smile and agreed to do exactly as he said. However, she secretly made plans to gather information and then disappear. After all, "Mala" was just an alias - nothing more than an illusion.
But Albab seemed to see through her façade, asking what was going on in her mind in a low, husky voice. Maintaining her smile, Mala reassured him that it was nothing and promised to follow his instructions.