~The lily of the Valley~

Chapter 13: A Warm Welcome

Ayzal took a deep breath, her heart racing with anticipation, as she stepped out of the car and onto the driveway of Aliyan's family home. She looked up at Aliyan, his eyes shining with encouragement, and together they entered the house.

Her aunt, beaming with joy, swept her into a tight embrace, tears streaming down her face. "Ayzal, my dear, it's so wonderful to see you!" Ayzal's heart swelled with love, feeling a sense of belonging she had never known before.

Aliyan's dad, a kind smile on his face, joined the reunion, his eyes twinkling with warmth. "Ayzal, you're so grown up now! You're as beautiful as a flower." Ayzal feels a little shy but happy.

Just then, her cousin and Aliyan's cousin, Zaviyar, burst into the room, grinning mischievously. "How's our panda doing?" Ayzal laughed, playfully rolling her eyes. "OMG, Zaviyar!" They both erupted into laughter, Aliyan watching with a smile, admiring her carefree spirit.

Zaviyar teased her, "You don't know I'm here, but you're always on Aliyan's mind. He talks about you nonstop!" Ayzal's eyes widened in surprise, and Aliyan's face turned a light shade of pink. "He talks rubbish sometimes," Aliyan said, chuckling.

Ayzal's aunt intervened, "Enough chit-chat, come with me, dear. Today's function is at our home, let's get ready." As they followed her to the parlour, Aliyan's dad excused himself to oversee the preparations.

Aliyan turned to Zaviyar, a mock scowl on his face. "You dumb head!" Zaviyar took off running, Aliyan chasing after him, their laughter echoing through the halls.

As the day unfolded, Ayzal felt like she had finally found her place in the world. Surrounded by people who loved and accepted her, she knew she was home. The flower of the valley, a symbol of her love and growth, bloomed in her heart, its fragrance filling her with happiness and belonging.