Mirshad could hardly believe how quickly everything had unfolded. Just hours ago, Baba had laid out a plan, and now, with his license in hand, he felt an overwhelming sense of achievement.
Back home, the mood was celebratory. Mirshad and Jabir laughed as they entered the kitchen.
"I'm starving," Mirshad announced, grinning. "Must be the thrill of passing the test!"
Mary turned to him, smiling warmly. "Congratulations, Mirshad. You've made us proud. I'll prepare something sweet for you both to celebrate."
As Mary worked, she asked about Mirshad's family. He shared snippets of his past, feeling a sense of belonging in her genuine interest. Their conversation was interrupted by Baba's commanding voice.
"Mirshad, come here."
Mirshad followed Baba to the living room.
"Tell me," Baba said, "if you could drive any car, what would it be?"
Caught off guard, Mirshad thought for a moment. "I've always admired the Mustang Shelby. It's bold, powerful—like a warrior on wheels."
Baba chuckled. "A good choice. And the color?"
"Black," Mirshad replied without hesitation. "It's sleek, like a black panther."
Baba's smile widened. "Interesting. Tomorrow, be ready by 7 a.m. We have somewhere to go. And remember, rest early tonight."
"Understood, Baba," Mirshad said, though his curiosity was piqued.
Back in the kitchen, Jabir greeted him with a knowing look. "So, what did Baba ask you?"
"He asked about my dream car," Mirshad replied casually.
Jabir's eyes lit up. "Do you see that blue BMW outside? That's mine. Baba asked me the same question when I got my license. A few days later, he took me to pick it up. Trust me, your Mustang is coming."
Mirshad stared at him, stunned. "You're serious?"
"Absolutely. Everyone here gets their own car—Mary has one too."
Mary chimed in, "That's right. Baba gave me my Toyota Camry as a gift."
Mirshad laughed. "If this is true, then my dream car is closer than I ever imagined!"
Mary placed the dinner plates on the table. "Now eat, rest, and get ready for tomorrow. Baba doesn't like anyone being late."
After dinner, Mirshad felt a sense of peace as he headed to his room. Before he could settle in, Mama called for him.
She greeted him with a kind smile. "I heard you got your license. Well done, my boy."
"Thank you, Mama," Mirshad said, his voice filled with gratitude.
She handed him a small box. Inside was an elegant bottle of perfume.
"This is for you. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask me or Mary. We're your family now, and your happiness is our responsibility."
Tears stung Mirshad's eyes. "Thank you, Mama. I'll never forget this."
He returned to his room, where Jabir teased him. "Looks like someone's becoming the favorite around here!"
They joked for a while, but Jabir eventually reminded him to rest.
Still, sleep didn't come easily to Mirshad. Restless, he stepped outside for a smoke, letting the cool night air calm his racing mind.
The events of the day replayed in his thoughts, each moment surreal. He lit one cigarette, then another, the quiet night offering no answers to his swirling questions.
But then, he heard it—a faint rustling, followed by the unmistakable sound of footsteps.
Instinctively, he ducked behind a nearby wall. Peering into the shadows, his heart pounded as he spotted figures moving with eerie precision.
There were at least ten of them, armed with swords and guns. Their movements were deliberate, their intent unmistakably dangerous.
Mirshad's breath caught. He couldn't retreat without being seen. Trapped, he realized this was no coincidence.
Who were they? And why were they here?
As the night stretched on, Mirshad stayed hidden, his mind racing with possibilities. One thing was clear—this was the beginning of something he couldn't yet understand.