Fatima and Ahmed walked hand in hand, the warm sun on their faces as they strolled through the bustling streets of the city. They had just left Amina and Juma at the café, and Fatima was still beaming with happiness.
"I'm so glad you liked them," Fatima said, looking up at Ahmed.
Ahmed smiled, his eyes cr crling at the corners. "I loved them," he said. "They're great people, and I'm so happy you're friends with them."
Fatima squeezed his hand, feeling a flutter in her chest. She had never felt this way about anyone before, and it was exhilarating and terrifying all at once.
As they walked, Ahmed led her to a small park tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. The park was filled with vibrant flowers and towering trees, and a small pond shimmered in the sunlight.
"Wow," Fatima breathed, looking around in wonder. "This is beautiful."
Ahmed smiled, and he led her to a bench overlooking the pond. They sat down, and Ahmed turned to her, his eyes serious.
"Fatima, I wanted to talk to you about something," he said, his voice low and husky.
Fatima's heart skipped a beat as she looked at him. "What is it?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ahmed took a deep breath, and he looked out at the pond. "I really like you, Fatima," he said. "I like the way you make me feel, and I like the way we connect. I was wondering if you'd like to go on a real date with me?"
Fatima's heart soared, and she nodded eagerly. "I'd love to," she said, smiling up at him.
Ahmed smiled back, and he leaned in to kiss her. Fatima's eyes fluttered closed, and she felt a rush of excitement as his lips touched hers.
The world around them melted away, and all that was left was the two of them, lost in the magic of their first kiss.
As they pulled back, Ahmed looked at her, his eyes shining with happiness. "I'm so glad I met you, Fatima," he said.
Fatima smiled, feeling like she was on cloud nine. "I'm glad too," she said.
They sat there for a while, watching the sun set over the pond, their hands entwined. They talked about everything and nothing, their conversation flowing easily.
As the stars began to twinkle in the sky, Ahmed stood up, and he pulled Fatima to her feet. "I should get you home," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Fatima nodded, feeling a pang of disappointment. She didn't want the night to end, but she knew it had to.
As they walked back to her place, Ahmed told her about his business, and his dreams for the future. Fatima listened, entrhralled, feeling like she was a part of something special.
When they reached her door, Ahmed leaned in, and he kissed her softly. "I'll call you tomorrow," he said, his eyes shining with promise.
Fatima nodded, feeling like she was floating on air. "I can't wait," she said.
As she watched him walk away, Fatima knew that she was falling deeply in love with Ahmed. She couldn't wait to see what the future held for them.
The secret garden of love was blooming, and Fatima was ready to let love in.