Chapter 51: Reward
Mira’s eyes widened in surprise. She hadn’t expected Zamian to agree so quickly. After a moment of stunned silence, she managed to say, "How about next week?" Zamian nodded in acknowledgment, confirming, "Next week it is then." Mira sensed a subtle shift in him, a change she couldn’t quite pinpoint. It was as though she had noticed something different about Zamian recently, but the exact nature of this change eluded her. Despite her curiosity, she simply nodded in agreement.
Zamian’s gaze softened as he looked at her. "You did well," he said, his voice carrying a tone of genuine approval. He turned to her with a faint, almost imperceptible smile—a rare expression that Mira immediately caught. Her heart fluttered at this small gesture. "Really?" she asked, her voice reflecting her surprise and delight. Zamian’s smile widened just a fraction as he replied, "Yes."
Mira’s smile grew in response to his words. The warmth in her chest was undeniable, and she felt a deep sense of satisfaction and joy at his praise.
The moment took on a new intensity when Zamian reached into his suit pocket and pulled out a small case. Mira’s eyes widened even further as she watched him open the case. Inside were two necklaces, each featuring a half-drawing of a senerp flower—an elegant blossom with petals shaped to perfection. The delicate craftsmanship was immediately apparent, and Mira’s mouth fell open in astonishment.
"How...?" she stammered, struggling to articulate her amazement. Zamian’s eyes twinkled with a hint of mischief as he instructed, "Connect them together."
With trembling hands, Mira took the two halves of the necklace and carefully joined them. As the halves clicked into place, the necklace formed a complete senerp flower. The flower’s petals glowed softly, casting a gentle, warm light. Mira’s eyes widened further as she marveled at the necklace’s beauty. Her smile grew as a tear rolled down her cheek, overwhelmed by the emotional significance of the gift.
Zamian observed her.
"If you don’t like it, I—" he began, but his words were cut off by Mira’s firm grasp of his hand. "No, I love it. Thank you so much," she said, her voice filled with heartfelt gratitude. Her smile was radiant, and she lifted her hair to allow him to fasten the necklace around her neck.
As Zamian carefully placed the necklace on her, he noticed a heart-shaped opening on her back, which her long hair had previously covered. The sight triggered a surge of protectiveness in him. He imagined how he would react if anyone else were to see her bare back—his protective instincts would be fierce. With a determined focus, he continued to fasten the necklace, ensuring it was secure.
Once Zamian finished adjusting the necklace, Mira turned to face him and asked, "How did you get this?" Her voice was filled with awe and curiosity. Zamian responded with a gentle smile, "This is custom-made. It’s the only one."
Mira’s eyes widened even more, and she felt a rush of overwhelming emotion. Tears began to flow freely down her cheeks. The tears were a mix of gratitude for Zamian’s thoughtfulness and the poignant realization that this perfect moment might be fleeting.
In a spontaneous and affectionate gesture, Mira took the other necklace and moved closer to Zamian, surprising him with her boldness. She delicately placed the necklace around his neck and then, without hesitation, pulled him into a warm embrace. Her knee rested on the car sofa between his legs, and she held him close. Zamian’s eyes widened in surprise as he felt the warmth of her hug.