"It's been ages since I came to an amusement park! We're gonna play all the games," Zain said, eyes lighting up.
Is he mentally retarded, or did his brain just stop growing after his body did? Lara thought, rolling her eyes.
"We're going in thirty minutes. I've got work to do, you get that? I'm not free like you," she said firmly.
"Okay, ma'am," Zain replied with a grin—happy enough that she hadn't said no.
"Two for the rollercoaster," Zain told the ticket guy, dragging Lara along before she could argue.
"Wait—why me? You can go. I'll watch," Lara protested.
"I know you love watching me—especially my body—but for now, just sit next to me and enjoy the ride," Zain teased, tugging her toward the seat.
They settled into the first row.
"Hey!" Lara yelped as Zain suddenly grabbed her hand.
"I'm scared of heights," he said, his voice suddenly quieter.
"What? Then why the hell did you even get on this?" Lara asked, confused.
Zain smirked. "Never tried it before. Figured if I'm dying, I might as well die holding your hand."
Lara stared at him for a second—half irritated, half caught off guard—as the ride shot forward with a scream.
To her surprise, Lara actually enjoyed the ride.
As they got down, a street photographer approached them.
"You guys are such a lovely couple! I took this photo without your permission—it came out really cute. Can I use it, if you don't mind?"
He showed them the picture. Lara leaned in to look.
It was taken mid-air, just as the rollercoaster dropped from a tremendous height. One of Lara's hands was raised, enjoying the moment, while the other was tightly held by Zain's.
What caught her off guard was Zain.
Unlike what he'd claimed earlier, he didn't look scared at all. His head was turned toward her, smiling—like her happiness alone was enough.
Lara spoke up.
"First, we aren't a couple. Second, no. I kindly request you delete it. Thank you," she said softly, politely.
Zain added, "My girl likes to keep our moments private, that's all. But can I have the picture? Really appreciate your effort, man."
Lara glared at him.
"Sure," the man said, agreeing not to use the photo before walking away.
"Your girl?" Lara snapped. "And why do you want the picture? Also—where did your height phobia disappear after holding my hand?" She crossed her arms.
Zain smirked.
"Guess your hand was the cure."