𝟷𝟺

                                    

                                          
As they exited the plane, Elena couldn't help but feel an almost nervous energy radiating from her. Everything was so different, so foreign. Her eyes were wide, taking in the new sights and sounds.
Mr. Ibrahims, on the other hand, maneuvered through the airport with a sense of ease. He seemed to know exactly where he was going, making his way to the luggage carousel to collect their luggage.The four guards, quiet and vigilant, continued to surround them, maintaining a watchful eye on their surroundings. 
Mr. Ibrahims approached the carousel where their luggage was being unloaded, and one of the guards moved forward to help collect their  suitcases.As the suitcases rolled along the carousel, 
Elena looked around, noticing the different faces, the diverse languages being spoken, and the unique clothing styles. Korea already seemed so foreign to her, and she was about to spend the next few years here, studying at one of the most prestigious universities in Asia.
Elena, looking around and not finding Alina, turned to her father and asked, "Appa, I don't see Alina anywhere. Where is she?" Mr. Ibrahim replied with a slight smile, "Elena, it's 7.30 pm. Alina had a meeting to attend. So She couldn't come pick us up But Don't worry, I already arranged the car to the hotel
You'll probably get a chance to meet her tomorrow." Elena nodded, a hint of disappointment in her eyes. She had been looking forward to seeing her unnie as soon as they landed. But she understood the demands of her siste's busy lifestyle.
The moment they stepped out of the airport, a blast of humid air hit them. The contrast between the cool air-conditioned interior and the sticky heat outside was striking. Mr. Ibrahims led the way to the waiting limousine, and they all climbed inside.
The spacious vehicle had a cool, air-conditioned interior, providing a welcome relief from the outside heat. The windows were slightly tinted, giving them privacy as the car glided through the city streets.
Elena gazed out of the window, taking in the sights of Seoul. Towering buildings stood on either side of the road, lit up with colorful lights, and the roads were bustling with traffic, even at this late hour.
The sight of it all made her feel simultaneously excited and overwhelmed. It was like being in a completely different world compared to her home back in USA.
The limousine finally came to a stop in front of an extravagant hotel. The Ibrahims climbed out, surrounded by the four silent and vigilant guards.
The hotel lobby was grandiose and exuded an air of opulence. Luxurious chairs were arranged in clusters, a polished marble floor gleamed underfoot, and an enormous crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, luminescent glow over the entire space.
Mr. Ibrahims approached the reception desk, where an immaculately dressed employee was waiting to assist them. He booked them two connecting rooms with a commanding aura.
While Elena waited, she watched the hustle and bustle of the lobby. A couple was seated in one corner, enjoying drinks, while the concierge directed a few late arrivals to their rooms.Mr. Ibrahims soon finished the arrangements and turned to Elena. "We're all set," he said, his voice soft, but firm. "We'll stay here"
Elena nodded, her eyes going to her surroundings again. Though she was excited about her new life at the university, there was an undeniable sense of homesickness stirring within her.The room they were assigned was spacious and elegantly furnished. The soft glow of the lamps cast shadows on the walls, and a large window looked out onto the city skyline.
Mr. Ibrahims went over to the window, peering out at the city.
"Tomorrow will be a busy day," he said, half to himself and half to Elena. "Make sure you get a good night's rest."Elena nodded, stifling a yawn. The long flight and the unfamiliar surroundings were starting to take a toll. "I will, Appa," she said.
She began to unpack some of her belongings, the familiar routine of setting up her temporary home calming her nerves slightly.After a moment, Mr. Ibrahims bid Elena good night and retired to his own room. The four guards silently followed him, positioning themselves outside the connecting door.
Elena was left to herself in the hotel room. The silence felt almost deafening after all the hustle and bustle of the day.She finished unpacking her clothes, hanging them in the closet and organizing her belongings in drawers. She took out her toiletries and set them up in the bathroom.
Finally, she slipped into her nightwear, a simple tank top and shorts, and climbed into the large, comfortable bed. It was incredibly soft and cozy, and yet she couldn't shake off a feeling of loneliness.The thought of Mike not coming to pick her up had crossed Elena's mind multiple times, but she always pushed it away, reminding herself that it was probably because of her father.
As time passed and Elena continued to ruminate, exhaustion finally started to catch up to her. Her eyelids grew heavy, her thoughts starting to blur.Eventually, weariness triumphed and she closed her eyes, sinking into the soft mattress.
Slowly, gently, she drifted off to sleep.
The soft white light from the moon spilled into the room, painting patterns on the carpet. A gentle hum from the air conditioner filled the air, a soothing lullaby to the silence.
Elena was fast asleep, her face relaxed, breaths soft and calm. In the stillness of the night, the only sound that was heard was the soft rustle of the bed sheets as she turned in her sleep.
...
During the three days, Elena had immersed herself in the preparations for her university. She had met Alina, the two were overjoyed to see each other after a long time, reminiscing about the past and sharing laughter. Sadly, Elena hadn't gotten a chance to meet Mike yet, which was disappointing but she reassured herself that she'd see him soon enough at the university.
Elena was busy exploring Korea and absorbing all the new information.Whle Mr Ibrahim, was only on this trip to assure her safety and was now preparing to return to the USA.
With a hint of melancholy in his eyes, Mr. Ibrahim sat on the edge of Elena's hotel bed, having a final conversation with her before his departure."Elena," he began, his voice soft yet firm. "Have you settled in all right? Are you happy with the university and the area?" He says "Yes, Appa," Elena responded with a nod, though there was a trace of sadness in her voice. "The university is amazing. I can't wait to start classes next week."
Mr. Ibrahim smiled, a mixture of pride and sorrow in his expression. "I'm glad to hear that. You know I only want the best for you."Elena looked down, fidgeting with the bed sheets. She knew her father had a habit of being overprotective and strict, but she also knew it came from a place of love.