FARHA

chapter 2

Farha's hands grasped the rusty gate as she peered out onto the busy street. Her bright green eyes sparkled with curiosity, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

"Hey, Farha! Come on!" Layla called out, jogging up to the gate. "We've got a score to make."

Farha's gaze lingered on the street before she turned to Layla. "What's the plan?"

Layla grinned mischievously. "mariam got a mark picked out. Let's go!"

The two girls took off, weaving through the crowded streets. They dodged pedestrians and vendors, their feet pounding the pavement in unison.

As they walked, Farha's thoughts drifted back to her family. She wondered if they were out there, searching for her. She pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the present.

When they reached the alley, Mariam and kulthum were already there, huddled in a corner. kulthum looked up, her eyes scanning the area. "Alright, here's the plan. Mariam's going to create a diversion, and Layla, you'll grab the wallet. Farha, you'll provide backup."

Farha nodded, her heart racing with excitement. She loved the thrill of the score, the rush of adrenaline as they worked together.

The group fell into their roles, moving seamlessly into action. mariam shouted and gestured, drawing the mark's attention. Layla snatched the wallet, and Farha stood watch, ready to intervene if needed.

After the score, they met up at their usual spot, a hidden courtyard deep in the alleys. They divided the spoils, laughing and joking as they counted their earnings.

As the sun began to set, Farha's stomach growled with hunger. "Hey, guys, let's get some food."

Layla smiled. "I know a place that serves decent scraps. Follow me."

The group trailed behind Layla, their footsteps echoing off the walls. They found a small food cart, and the vendor handed them steaming hot doughnuts

Farha took a bite, the flavors exploding on her tongue. She closed her eyes, savoring the taste. For a moment, she forgot about the struggles, the hunger, and the uncertainty.

As they ate, Farha's thoughts turned to her family again. She wondered what they were like, if they loved her, and if they'd ever find her.

The group finished their meal, and Farha stood up, brushing off her pants. "Thanks, guys. That hit the spot."

Layla smiled. "Anytime, Farha. We're in this together."

The group nodded in agreement, their bond stronger than any challenge. They knew they'd face hardships, but they'd face them together.

As the night fell, Farha curled up in their makeshift bed, her eyes drifting shut. She knew tomorrow would bring more struggles, more uncertainty. But for now, she was safe, surrounded by her friends, and that was all that mattered.

The next morning, Farha woke up to the sound of Layla's gentle nudging. "Farha, wake up. We've got a problem."

Farha rubbed her eyes, trying to shake off the sleep. "What's wrong?"

"The vendor from last night is looking for us," Mariam said, her voice low. "He's not happy about the doughnuts we 'acquired'."

Farha's instincts kicked in, and she quickly sat up. "Let's move. We don't want any trouble."

The group packed up their meager belongings and slipped out of the courtyard, merging into the crowded streets. They walked briskly, keeping a low profile.

As they navigated the alleys, Farha spotted a familiar face – Khalil Bahrain, the billionaire. She'd heard rumors about his ruthless business tactics, but she'd never met him before.

Khalil's piercing gaze locked onto hers, and Farha felt a shiver run down her spine. She quickly looked away, not wanting to draw attention.

"Farha, what's wrong?" Kulthum asked, noticing her tension.

Farha nodded discreetly toward Khalil. "That's him. Let's keep moving."

The group picked up their pace, trying to lose themselves in the crowd. But Khalil's presence lingered in Farha's mind, leaving her with an uneasy feeling.

As the day went on, Farha's thoughts drifted back to her family. She wondered if they'd ever find her, if they'd ever love her again. The uncertainty gnawed at her, but she pushed it aside, focusing on survival.

The group scavenged for food, dodged danger, and supported each other. Despite the challenges, they found moments of joy, laughter, and camaraderie.

As night fell, Farha curled up beside her friends, feeling a sense of belonging. She knew tomorrow would bring more struggles, but with her group by her side, she felt a glimmer of hope.