Chapter 4 Dinner at Salman's

The thought of buying a new SIM card for my phone was quickly dismissed by Kashifa, who raised an eyebrow at me. "Why do you need a SIM card? We have Wi-Fi here," he said, a teasing lilt in his voice. "You can just update Kristoff through WhatsApp."

I rolled my eyes, knowing he had a point. Still, I missed the independence of having my own number. "Yeah, but it feels weird not having a local number. Kristoff has been calling me every day since I arrived."

Kashifa smirked, leaning back against the wall with a knowing look. "What does he want this time?"

I picked up my phone and opened WhatsApp, my fingers hovering over the screen. "He insists on talking to you every time. You know how he is."

Kashifa chuckled, clearly amused. "Of course. He never could resist a chance to catch up. Let him know I'm here."

With a reluctant grin, I swiped to answer Kristoff's call. "Hey, Kristoff! What's up?"

"August! Finally! I've been trying to reach you!" Kristoff's voice crackled with excitement. "Are you having fun? And are you with Kashifa?"

I glanced at Kashifa, who was still smirking. "Yeah, I'm with him right now."

"Put him on!" Kristoff insisted, his eagerness palpable. "I want to talk to him!"

I hesitated but saw Kashifa's playful expression, making it hard to resist. "Okay, one second." I handed the phone to Kashifa. "Here, it's Kristoff. He wants to chat."

Kashifa took the phone with a flourish, holding it to his ear. "Kristoff! It's good to hear from you, man! How've you been?"

"Not too bad! Just keeping busy. How's August treating you?" Kristoff's voice was filled with warmth and genuine curiosity.

Kashifa shot me a wink, his tone light. "He's doing alright. I've been showing him around, and I think he's finally starting to like it here. You know how he is with new places."

Kristoff laughed. "Yeah, he can be a bit of a homebody. But I know he's in good hands with you. So, what's the best part of your reunion so far?"

Kashifa leaned closer to me, a teasing grin on his face. "Honestly? Watching him struggle with the heat. He's changed clothes like three times already!"

"Typical August," Kristoff said, laughing. "But seriously, I hope you guys are having a blast. I miss hanging out with both of you!"

As the conversation continued, I felt a sense of camaraderie and warmth wash over me. Even though I was far from home, in this moment with Kashifa and Kristoff, I felt a connection that made everything else fade away.

We rode the motorcycle toward Salman's house, the afternoon air wrapping around us like a warm embrace. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a soft golden glow that seemed to paint everything it touched in warm hues of orange and pink. As the light began to fade, it illuminated the road ahead, where the asphalt shimmered like glass, dotted with patches of dried grass and wildflowers that danced gently in the light breeze.

The terrain around us shifted from the bustling village to more open fields, the tall grasses swaying rhythmically, almost as if they were welcoming our passage. In the distance, I could see the silhouettes of palm trees standing tall against the horizon, their fronds swaying softly, casting playful shadows on the ground. The sweet scent of blooming jasmine wafted through the air, mingling with the citrusy notes of Kashifa's cologne, which enveloped me like a familiar blanket. It was intoxicating, heightening my senses and igniting a warmth deep within me.

Kashifa sat in front of me, his posture confident as he navigated the winding road with ease. I couldn't help but admire the way the setting sun caught the contours of his face, casting soft shadows that highlighted his features. His hair, tousled by the wind, glistened as it caught the fading light, and I found myself leaning in slightly, drawn closer by the magnetic pull of his presence.

As we glided along, the rhythmic roar of the motorcycle blended with the sounds of the afternoon-distant laughter, the chirping of crickets, and the gentle rustle of leaves. Every bump in the road sent a thrill through me, but it was the warmth of Kashifa's body against mine that sent my heart racing. The way he smelled, a mix of fresh citrus and something uniquely him, was grounding and exhilarating all at once. It was like a whisper that told me I was safe, even as my mind danced with all the things I tried to suppress.

"Hold on tight!" Kashifa called over the roar of the engine, his voice cutting through the air. I instinctively wrapped my arms around his waist, feeling the muscles beneath his shirt, the connection between us palpable and electric. In that moment, everything else faded-the worries, the distance, the complexities of our lives. It was just us, riding into the dusk, the world around us painted in shades of amber and twilight.

As we approached Salman's house, the last rays of sunlight spilled over the landscape, casting long shadows and illuminating the path ahead. The horizon glowed with a fiery blush, and I couldn't help but feel that this moment, however fleeting, was perfect. The sun might have been setting, but something new was beginning to stir within me-a longing I dared not name, yet welcomed in the warmth of the fading day.

The motorcycle slowed down, and I felt Kashifa's right hand reached back, searching for mine. As his fingers intertwined with my own, he guided my hand around his waist, pulling me closer against him. The warmth of his body radiated through the fabric of his shirt, and I could almost picture the mischievous smile playing on his lips, the one that always hinted at his playful nature.

As we resumed our ride, I felt an exhilarating rush of closeness. Kashifa's hand felt strong and reassuring in mine, and the simple act of holding on made my heart race. I couldn't help but be drawn into the moment, imagining that cheeky grin as he glanced over his shoulder, eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.

"Is this okay?" He asked, his voice slightly raised to be heard over the engine, though the playful tone suggested he already knew the answer.

"Yeah, it's perfect." I replied, my pulse quickening as I tightened my grip. I felt a warmth spread through me, a mix of excitement and something deeper, something I tried to keep at bay.

With every bump in the road, I reveled in the sensation of being so close to him, the thrill of our connection palpable in the crisp afternoon air. I could sense his laughter, the lightness in his spirit that always made me feel a little more alive. As we navigated the winding path, the world around us blurred into a kaleidoscope of colors, but all I could focus on was the feeling of being wrapped in his presence.

Here's an expanded version of that exchange, adding more depth and emotion:

---

He said something I didn't quite catch, his voice nearly swallowed by the rush of wind around us. "Huh?" I asked, leaning in closer, straining my ears to hear him over the engine's roar.

Kashifa turned his head slightly, a teasing grin breaking across his face. "I said, I don't want you to fall on the road... but you can fall on me."

His words hung in the air, and for a moment, time seemed to pause. A mix of warmth and embarrassment washed over me, the playful double meaning resonating in a way that sent my heart racing. I could almost picture his expression-those playful eyes glinting with mischief, the corners of his mouth curling in that familiar, enchanting smile.

I laughed, a bit nervous but mostly amused. "So, you're saying I'd be safer falling into you?"

"Exactly!" he replied, his tone light and teasing, but there was an undertone that suggested he meant it in more ways than one. "Just remember, I'm always here to catch you."

I felt a flutter in my chest at his words, each syllable dripping with unspoken promise. The way he spoke, with such confidence and charm, made me feel both exhilarated and vulnerable. The road ahead twisted and turned, but in that moment, all I could think about was the warmth of his body against mine and the easy intimacy of our connection.

"Alright, then," I said, a grin spreading across my face. "I'll try not to fall, but if I do, I'll make sure it's onto you."

Kashifa chuckled, his laughter bright against the backdrop of the fading sun. "Good plan! Just hold on tight, and I promise I'll always be your safe landing."

As we sped down the road, I couldn't shake the feeling that this was more than just a casual ride. It was a journey that bound us together in ways I was only beginning to understand, and with every mile, the bond between us seemed to deepen, igniting a fire within me that I dared not extinguish.

We arrived at Salman's place, the vibrant hues of the day giving way to the deep blues and purples of night. The stars began to twinkle overhead, punctuating the darkening sky with a sprinkle of silver. As I dismounted the motorcycle, a jolt of relief surged through me, but my bottom ached from the long ride, the bumpy road having taken its toll.

Kashifa dismounted with a graceful ease, turning to face me with a chuckle. "You look like you've just disembarked from a long voyage." He teased, his laughter ringing out in the cool night air.

"What?" I asked, amusement bubbling in my voice as I shifted my weight awkwardly, trying to ease the discomfort. "You didn't tell me it was this far, and the road was so bumpy!"

He stepped closer, the warm glow from the porch light illuminating his face, highlighting the way his eyes sparkled with mischief. "I thought you liked a little adventure." He shot back, feigning innocence. "Besides, I warned you to hold on tight!"

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help but smile at his playful demeanor. "Yeah, but you could have mentioned that the journey would feel like riding a roller coaster on a rocky cliff!"

Kashifa laughed again, the sound infectious. "Next time, I'll bring a cushion for you, I promise. But really, you handled it like a champ. I'm impressed!"

"Impressed? Or just entertained?" I shot back, feeling a warmth creep up my cheeks at the banter.

"Maybe a bit of both." He admitted, his grin softening as he leaned against the motorcycle. The camaraderie between us felt effortless, and I relished the playful teasing that seemed to bridge the gap between our worlds.

As we walked up to Salman's house, the night air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music drifting from within. The atmosphere was vibrant, welcoming, and for a moment, I forgot the aching in my legs. Kashifa glanced at me, his expression a mix of excitement and anticipation. "Let's go see what they've got planned for us," he said, his voice brimming with enthusiasm.

With that, we stepped into the warmth of the gathering, ready to embrace whatever the night had in store.

The setup was picturesque, nestled in the garden of Salman's house. String lights hung from the branches of nearby trees, casting a warm, inviting glow that danced over the vibrant green grass. The air was alive with the sounds of laughter and playful shouts as children darted around, their excitement contagious. In one corner, a group of old men sat comfortably on a mat, their voices mingling in friendly conversation while they enjoyed the spread of food laid out before them.

As we stepped into the garden, the aroma of spiced dishes filled the air, rich and tantalizing. A colorful array of platters was spread over the cellophane, showcasing everything from aromatic biryani to freshly made samosas. My stomach rumbled in response, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of anticipation for the feast ahead.

Salman spotted us and broke into a wide grin, waving us over. "Kashifa! August! You made it!" he called out, his enthusiasm palpable as he rushed to greet us. His warm welcome made the night feel even more special.

Kashifa smiled back, his eyes brightening at the sight of his friend. "Of course! We wouldn't miss it for the world!" Then they talked in rapid Pashto, both of them were excited as if they did not meet two nights ago.

As we approached, I could see some of their friends gathered at the other end of the mat, getting ready to dig in. Laughter erupted as a few of the kids chased each other around the food, their giggles ringing out like music against the backdrop of the evening. I couldn't help but smile at the lively scene-so different from the quiet moments I often found myself in back home.

"Come! Join us!" Salman urged, gesturing toward the mat, and as we settled in, I felt a sense of belonging wash over me. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a tapestry of friendship and laughter woven together under the night sky. I glanced at Kashifa, who was already engaged in conversation with Salman, his animated gestures and infectious laughter making me feel even more at ease.

I took a moment to soak it all in-the energy of the gathering, the delightful scents wafting through the air, and the warmth of camaraderie that wrapped around us like a comforting blanket. It was a reminder of how alive I felt in moments like these, and I was grateful to share it with Kashifa by my side.

"So, ahh, how are you?" Salman asked, settling himself beside me on the mat. He leaned in slightly, his smile widening as his eyes met mine, a glint of curiosity lighting them up. There was something disarmingly friendly about his gaze, a warmth that made me feel both noticed and a little self-conscious under his attention.

"I'm good." I replied, nodding and smiling back, trying to match his easy energy. "Just... taking it all in, you know? This is... incredible." I gestured around the garden-the lively gathering, the laughter of friends and family, the fragrance of food filling the night air.

Salman chuckled, clearly amused by my awe. "Yeah, it's a bit different, isn't it? We like to keep things lively around here." His tone was light, but I could tell he was watching me closely, trying to gauge my reaction.

"Definitely different, but in a good way." I said, hoping to convey my appreciation. "It's been a while since I've been around something like this. Everyone's just... so together." I glanced over to where Kashifa was laughing with some of the other guys, his face lit up with genuine joy. The way he fit so effortlessly into the scene-so at home, so natural-filled me with admiration and maybe even a little pang of something else.

Salman's smile softened as he followed my gaze. "Kashifa said you've been like a brother to him these past few days." He gave me a knowing look, one eyebrow raised. "You must be something special if he wanted you to meet everyone."

The words caught me off guard, and I felt a warmth rise in my cheeks. "Well, he's been... really welcoming." I said, choosing my words carefully, feeling the weight of Salman's curious gaze. "I guess it's hard not to feel at home with someone like him around."

Salman nodded slowly, his eyes twinkling. "I'm glad you feel that way. Around here, people don't need to be related by blood to be family." He gave my shoulder a reassuring pat before his attention shifted to the children, who were now inching closer to the food, their excitement barely contained.

I watched as he laughed and waved them off, and as he did, I felt a sense of gratitude settle over me. Maybe it was this place, or maybe it was the people, but it was as if I'd been invited into a world where connection wove through every part of life. And even though I was an outsider, they had made me feel like I was part of something I hadn't even known I was missing.

"I'll just be around. Call me if you need anything, okay?" Salman said, his smile widening even further, a playful glint in his eyes. "I've got to refill the food-being a host is a tedious job." He clicked his tongue and gave me an exaggerated wink before patting me on the back. "And I think I should remind Kashifa not to leave you alone. Who knows? Someone might take an interest in you and whisk you away."

We both laughed at his last line, though something about it hung in the air, leaving me with an odd feeling. The laughter felt genuine, but the way he'd said it, his words layered with a casual warmth, lingered with a subtle hint of something else. I chuckled, brushing off the thought, but a faint twinge of curiosity stayed with me as I watched him blend back into the lively crowd, ever the gracious host.

In a way, Salman's words only added to the surreal feeling of the night. I was just a guest in this world, a visitor to this close-knit circle of friends and family. But something about the way he'd looked at me, that gentle tease in his voice, left me wondering if I'd truly become part of something more.

Salman didn't look bad at all. In fact, he was striking in his own way, with an easy charm that seemed to draw people in effortlessly. His hair was straight and a natural blend of blonde and light brown, catching the warm glow of the garden lights with a hint of gold. His eyes, a cool blue, had a sharp, lively spark that gave his face a mischievous edge, like he was always on the verge of a clever remark.

His nose was straight and well-defined, lending a sense of refinement to his features. His skin was fair, but tanned from hours spent outdoors, giving him a slightly rugged, windswept look that somehow suited him perfectly. There was something distinctly British about his face, the kind of look that might fit right in on the streets of London or in the pages of a travel magazine. His relaxed smile and confident demeanor completed the picture, giving him an air of both familiarity and intrigue.

Focus on the food, August, I scolded myself, forcing my gaze back to the colorful spread in front of me. But it was hard to keep my mind there, especially as I spotted Kashifa making his way over, his friends trailing behind like he was leading a small parade. There was an ease to his walk, a lightness that seemed to draw attention without trying.

Naveed, one of the friends I'd met on the night of my arrival, was waving at me enthusiastically. I smiled and gave a small wave back, feeling the warmth of the welcome all over again. I tried to focus on the dishes in front of me-steaming biryani, fragrant with saffron; golden, crispy samosas stacked high on a plate; and a bowl of creamy, minty raita beside it, glistening in the soft light. The aromas alone were enough to make my stomach rumble, but my attention kept drifting back to the approaching group, to Kashifa's familiar, easy smile.

Just concentrate on the food, I told myself again, but I couldn't help the excitement bubbling up as he got closer. It was as if his presence made everything brighter, more alive. I took a breath, trying to ground myself, but every step he took seemed to send my heart racing just a little faster.

"Hi," Kashifa greeted, sliding down to sit beside me. His smile was wide, and his eyes held that familiar spark as they met mine, drawing me in without even trying. "Sorry I left for a bit," he added, his tone warm, with a hint of apology that only made him seem more endearing.