All for you

Chapter 2: Emerald Allison

After dismissal, Emerald spotted the two boys engrossed in conversation. She approached Zarin, who seemed lost in their chat.

"Hi Zarin," she said, pouting playfully.

"Emer," he smiled, holding her hands tightly.

"Are we heading home now?" Zain asked, addressing no one in particular.

Emerald cringed inwardly. Why did they have to walk home with Zain almost every day? She wished she could spend quality time with Zarin alone.

"I'm not sure," Zarin replied.

"Anyway, where's Gabi?" Zain asked.

Zarin shrugged. "No idea."

Just then, a dark-haired, chubby girl ran towards them, panting.

"Hey guys," Gabrielle, or Gabi for short, muttered under her breath.

"Sorry for keeping you waiting," she apologized.

"No problem," Zarin said with a smile.

"Hi Emer," Gabi added, smiling.

"Hi," Emerald replied, returning the smile.

Although they walked home together daily, Emerald and Gabi weren't particularly close. Gabi was more intimate with Zarin and Zain, her old friends from Grade 2. Emerald had always admired their strong bond.

As they strolled home, Gabi asked, "Are you guys coming to the theatre tonight?"

Zarin glanced at Emerald. "Are you coming?"

"I'll come only if you come," Emerald said, smiling.

"We're all coming," Zain chimed in.

Emerald rolled her eyes, wishing he wouldn't tag along. Why did Zain always have to be part of their plans?

The group continued walking, discussing school gossip and upcoming events. Emerald listened intently, contributing occasionally.

Upon arriving home, Emerald headed to her room to get ready for the theatre. She opened her wardrobe, scanning the rows of clothes.

"What's wrong?" Julie, their loyal househelp, asked from behind.

"Deciding what to wear," Emerald replied.

Julie joined the search. "Where are you going?"

"The theatre. With Zarin and his friends," Emerald added.

Julie pulled out a sleek, red sleeveless dress. "Here, try this."

"Thanks," Emerald said, taking the dress.

As Julie helped Emerald get ready, they chatted about school and friends.

"Your hair's untidy. Let me weave it before you leave," Julie suggested.

Emerald smiled, grateful for Julie's maternal presence in her life.

Since losing her parents at age eight, Emerald had lived with her grandmother and Julie, who had been their loyal househelp since Emerald was four.

Julie was more than just a helper; she was a confidante and friend. Emerald often shared her deepest secrets and fears with Julie, who listened attentively and offered wise advice.

"Julie, do you think Zain likes me?" Emerald asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Julie's expression turned thoughtful. "I'm not sure, dear. But what's important is how you feel about him."

Emerald sighed. "I don't like him, Julie. He's always teasing me."

Julie's eyes sparkled. "Maybe he's trying to get your attention."

Emerald shook her head. "No, Julie. Zain's just annoying."

Julie chuckled. "Well, whatever his intentions, you focus on Zarin. He's a lovely boy."

Emerald smiled, feeling grateful for Julie's guidance.

As Emerald finished getting ready, she glanced in the mirror. The red dress accentuated her curves, and her woven hair framed her face perfectly.

"You look stunning, dear," Julie said, beaming.

Emerald blushed. "Thanks, Julie."

With a final check of her appearance, Emerald headed out to meet Zarin and their friends.

The evening promised to be exciting, but Emerald couldn't shake off the feeling that Zain would somehow ruin the night.

Little did she know, the evening held surprises that would change everything.