Lara pulled out her phone and called someone, sighing. "Lost him."
She checked the call logs next—Ben and Adam had called her multiple times.
"Uncle and Dad called several times. Must've called you too," Lara said.
"It's pretty late. Almost midnight. They were probably worried," Zain replied casually.
Lara called her dad.
"Hey, Dad. Me and Zain are together. We were out exploring the city… hmm, yeah, we're close to City E right now. Don't worry, we'll be back soon."
She paused, listening.
"Okay… no need. We'll be back soon. Mh… okay."
She cut the call and exhaled, running a hand through her hair.
"Dad wants us to go to City E. There's a sunrise spot he really likes—wants me to show it to you. So he asked us to stay close by for the day."
Zain glanced at her, one corner of his mouth lifting. "City E, huh? Sounds like a plan… though I should warn you—you get distracted easily when I'm around."
Lara shot him a look. "Distracted? Me? Impossible," she muttered.
He leaned closer, voice low. "Oh, I think you'd be surprised. Even a master strategist like you can't compete with my charm."
Lara rolled her eyes. "You're unbelievable."
Zain chuckled softly, his hand brushing hers—accidental, but lingering a second too long.
"Unbelievable? Or irresistible, honey?"
She glared at him. "Don't call me that. You're impossible," she snapped, sharper this time.
Zain leaned back, grinning, completely unbothered.
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In no time, they reached City E. They searched for rooms, but every big hotel was fully booked. After checking a few local homestays, they finally found one run by an elderly couple. With no other option—and the hour already late—Lara agreed.
They thanked the couple and tried to settle in, noting it was close to midnight. But the couple insisted on taking care of them, serving a warm meal and preparing thick blankets for the night.
Assuming they were a couple, the elderly lady began sharing stories about her own love life—how she and her husband used to travel the same way, just like Lara and Zain. Lara found herself enjoying their company, listening to the old, familiar warmth in her voice.
"Maybe we'll look like them when we're old," Zain said, eyes glinting.
Lara shot him a sharp glare.
"I'll still love you when we're old and wrinkly," he added, winking.
By now, Lara was immune to his nonsense. She rolled her eyes, a faint smile tugging at her lips, and thanked the couple for their hospitality.