Unbeknownst to both, time slipped away unnoticed the previous night, causing them to retire to bed much later than expected. However, due to Zahra's extended slumber during the day, she found herself awake and stirring long before Nasseem.

The early morning light streamed through the windows, casting a gentle glow upon the room as she went about her morning routine. She tiptoed around the house, careful not to disturb her husband's peaceful sleep, and took solace in the tranquility of the early hours.

With a renewed sense of energy, Zahra eagerly quenched her thirst by gulping down half the bottle of water before speed-walking to the bathroom to relieve her aching bladder.

After a quick shower, she wrapped her wild hair in a towel and headed to the kitchen, determined to make a decent breakfast. And, so, as quietly as possible, she hustled around until she heard him leave his room.

Nasseem paused in the hallway, sniffed the air, and frowned.

Poking her head out, Zahra smiled, "Good morning. Freshen up quickly, the food is almost ready."

"Ah okay, good morning."

When he sat down, his gaze absorbed the anticipation in her eyes before it settled on the generous plates in front of him, filled to the brim with an enticing array of dishes. The first one held a tempting serving of French toast adorned with caramelized pears and creamy ricotta cheese. The combination promised a delightful blend of flavors.

Next to it, a stack of pancakes caught his attention. They were generously smeared with spiced peanut butter and drizzled with golden honey. Vibrant blackberries adorned the top, adding a burst of freshness and color to the dish. Completing the breakfast spread was a steaming cup of black coffee, its aroma wafting through the air and promising a much-needed jolt of energy to kickstart the day.

As Nasseem took in the mouthwatering sight before him, he couldn't help but mirror the eagerness he'd witnessed on her face. 

Laughing sheepishly, Zahra shifted her weight from one foot to another. "Sorry, I went overboard. The ingredients are all fresh and I couldn't help myself."

He blinked back into focus and swallowed his saliva. "Yeah, uh, sure, no problem."He paused and glanced at her. "Are you feeling better today?"

"Very. Just a slight headache."

"Make sure you take your meds."

Zahra nodded in response, a small smile gracing her lips, and motioned for him to start eating. Eagerly, he wasted no time and dug in, occasional hums of appreciation escaping his lips. Meanwhile, Zahra sat upright, her heart swelling with joy, and found herself consuming more food than usual, carried away by the delightful atmosphere.

"This is so good," Nasseem spoke through a mouthful. "Who taught you to cook?"

Blushing, she sipped her coffee. "Mom taught me the basics. The rest I picked up from working at various restaurants here and there."

Swallowing his bite, he grinned. "You're a great cook. I love the way you season the salad and your spaghetti was mouthwatering."

Zahra's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink, not expecting the sincerity of his compliment but still basking in the pleasure it evoked within her. "Thank you so much. I'm glad you think so," she murmured, her voice filled with genuine gratitude and a touch of shy satisfaction. 

The acknowledgment of her cooking skills warmed her heart, and she felt a renewed sense of pride in her culinary abilities since it was a hobby she hadn't exposed to anyone before due to her financial struggles.

When done, he insisted on taking care of the dishes. Appreciative of his offer, Zahra nodded and headed to her room to get ready. After popping a couple of pills to soothe her headache, she pulled on a pair of jeans and a sleeveless floral-print top and grabbed her tote bag.

Nasseem stood in the hallway, donning his usual combat boots and loose-fitting clothing. Concern laced his voice as he addressed her. "Are you sure you're okay? We can wait until you feel completely ready," he offered, his eyes reflecting genuine consideration for her.

Zahra waved off his concerns, a determined smile on her face. "No, no, I'm good," she assured him, her hands gesturing dismissively. "Really, let's go," she added with enthusiasm and a hint of eagerness. 

Despite any lingering fatigue or discomfort, she was super excited about their outing together. On the other hand, Nasseem couldn't help but berate himself for suggesting it the previous night. It was a thoughtless idea that had slipped out without much consideration. 

However, seeing Zahra's happy and excited expression, his guilt dissolved and he couldn't bring himself to back out now. He nodded silently and followed after her, determined to make the best of the day and ensure she enjoyed herself.