You see why I ask yall to comment? You get more updates!

“Penny for your thoughts?”

Amina blinked, suddenly being pulled back into reality. Her gaze cleared, then it fell on the man standing in front of her, having snapped his fingers in front of her to gain her attention.

Seeing the look on his face, she offered him a sheepish smile, blood rushing to her cheeks. “I… I’m sorry I just—” how is she supposed to apologize even? She has no idea.

His chuckle had her string of apology coming to a stop. She sealed her lips shut, feeling embarrassed.

Upon realizing this, he stopped chuckling and then waved it off. “Don’t worry, it happens.” Contrary to Aahil, whom would’ve started an argument with her in that situation, she was met with Dean, whom bless his soul understood that things happen. He then offered her a small, warm grin. “I was worried I was starting to bore you.”

She bit her lower lip, then shrugged. “Just… a tad bit.” She brought her hand up, leaving little space between her thumb and index finger to justify her point.

Dean stared at her with slightly parted lips before he chuckled yet again, feeling a tad bit embarrassed this time around as well. His intention was never to bore her. “I’m sorry I can’t make horse riding lessons fun just like that.”

She shook her head softly. “No, don’t say that. You offering to teach me is more than enough.” And that was the truth.

Horse riding has always been one of the things on her bucket list which she never got to fulfill. So when the guys brought up going for one, she immediately inquired on whether se could tag along. They agreed, and much to her luck, Benazir was on board as well.

Then, Aahil isn’t part of them. A huge bonus!

Anticipation coursed through her veins as they drove into the town to head to a famous horse riding place on the island. Or so they say.

She could only sit back in the passenger seat of the SUV and watch the trees and environment as they pass by. She ended in the same car with Dean—which she was thankful for and unfortunately, Bae Hyun whom made the air tense.

Throughout the drive, only a few words were exchanged between her and Dean, which eventually ended with him playing a song to lighten up the tense air. The other guy simply sat in the back, not uttering a single word. If not for the awkwardness his silence left, they would’ve forgotten of his existence there.

So, you can imagine her happiness when they finally reached the horse park.

As she stepped out of the SUV at Jeju Horse Park, she is immediately captivated by the sight before her. The air is filled with a sweet fragrance from the nearby blossoming flowers, adding to the sense of wonder and excitement. The landscape unfolds like a beautifully painted canvas, with vibrant hues of green stretching out in every direction.

Her eyes are drawn to the graceful horses gracefully grazing in the lush paddocks, their sleek coats shimmering under the warm sunlight. She can’t help but smile as she hears the rhythmic sound of their hooves on the soft ground and the gentle whinnying that fills the air.

The entrance archway stands tall and elegant, inviting her into this equestrian sanctuary. Adorned with lovely horse sculptures, it reflects the park’s deep connection with these magnificent animals. The sight of the main riding arena takes her breath away, framed by the awe-inspiring backdrop of majestic mountains that seem to touch the sky.

Feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation, she knows that she is about to embark on a thrilling horse riding experience. As she takes a moment to soak in the serene and magical atmosphere around her, she suddenly felt glad to have taken up Benazir’s offer to take a break. She couldn’t imagine missing such a sight.

Even it is enough to make her weekend.

The only downside was, she knew nothing about riding horses. So, while the others all got on their and went away, she was left with Dean whom, bless his beautiful soul offered to stay back and teach her.

She kept zoning out though. Her mind going back to how she would eventually return home, and see the face of that man. Just the thought ruins her mood.

Dean pressed his hands together, then gave her an uneasy smile. “Well, why don’t we just go straight to riding? You’ll definitely be invested then. It’s not boring like my teaching, I promise.”

She nodded, then let out a light hearted joke. “Yeah you should never take up a teaching job else I fear your students will all be bored.”

He didn’t take offense in her words, understanding the joke behind them. “Noted.” He looked away for a split second before meeting her gaze again. “So…” he swallowed uneasily, not understanding why he was suddenly shy around her.

He was worried of making mistakes, almost like a teenager having his first crush. Well, he definitely wasn’t a teenager, the latter though…

Amina nodded, her excitement returning. “Let’s get down to business.”

“Let’s do this.”

With a mix of nervousness and excitement, she approaches the friendly horse that has been carefully selected for her. The magnificent creature stands tall, exuding a sense of calm and confidence. As she reaches out to gently pat its soft mane, she can feel a connection forming between them.

Dean guides her through the process, ensuring she feels safe and comfortable. When she was about to hoist her sled up on it, subconsciously, he stretched his hand out to offer her support.

It wasn’t until she noticed the hand, and stared at it for a few seconds did he realize his mistake. He hastily pulled back, blood rushing to his ears. She could see the tinge of red there.

“Sorry about that.” He was quick to apologize. “I didn’t mean to…”

She offered him a small smile, dismissing the mistake. “I’ll just…” she gestured to the horse.

He nodded awkwardly. “Yeah…”

She takes a deep breath, placing her foot in the stirrup and gracefully swings her leg over the horse’s back. Once settled into the saddle, she holds the reins gently in her hands, feeling the power and strength of the horse beneath her.

As the horse starts to move, she can’t help but feel a surge of exhilaration. The rhythmic motion of the horse’s gait brings a sense of harmony and unity, as if they are moving as one. The initial nerves give way to a growing confidence, and a smile forms on her face as she realizes she is actually riding a horse.

She excitedly turned around to share her excitement with Dean, only for her lips to part slightly upon seeing he’d already gotten on his horse as well and was standing beside her. He offered her a warm smile, which she reciprocated with a huge grin.

Together, they continued the strides together.

With each gentle nudge and soft spoken word, she communicates with her equine companion, forming an unspoken bond. The world around her seems to fade away as she focuses on the incredible experience of riding this majestic creature. The wind brushes against her face, and the scenery blurs past in a beautiful blur of colors.

As she gains more confidence, she starts to guide the horse through simple turns and circles, relishing in the newfound sense of control and freedom. The joy in her heart is evident as she experiences the thrill of riding for the first time.

All through the ride, and while she eventually got lost in her moment, Dean followed close behind in case she might need any help but it turns out, she didn’t.

She’s a natural at it.

Eventually, she snapped out of her trance and aligned her strides with him. Despite not knowing where the others headed off to, they didn’t care.

Instead, they enjoyed the moment they had together. It was beautiful, healing even.

And by the time they dismounted the horses, Amina’s heart was filled to the brim.

***

“They’re gone.” Dean declared, as he trudged in the direction where Amina stood, leaning against the SUV they came in. He close the distance between them, then added. “They finished off early, and ditched us. I’m certain Hunter is behind this in a way. They’re probably off to do something reckless.”

Amina, upon seeing the slight distressed look masking his features chuckled lightly. “And Benazir?” She wasn’t worried about being left alone with Dean.

If anything, she enjoyed the last few hours. She dare say they are the highlight of her life in the past few months.

Her heart was full. She felt contented. She was happy.

She’d long forgotten what it was like to feel that contented. But she does at the moment.

Dean sighed, shaking his head slightly. A line of worry formed on his forehead. “I asked them to drop her home before they leave off to do something stupid but well,” he kissed his teeth. “with those four, there’s really no telling. They’re all birds of the same feather, and are terrible influence on her.”

“They’re your friends.” She pointed out, her hands crossed over her torso casually. “If they’re bad people, you are as well. A friend of thief is a thief.” She stated light heartily.

Dean’s lips slanted into a smile, and it made her stomach did flips. “I try to be good on most occasions.” He admitted, and that unmistakable light British accent made an appearance. “Plus the only thing I’m willing to steal is your heart.”

Amina threw her head back and laughed out loud the minute those words flew past his lips. When it died down, she met his gaze with a large grin painted across her features. “That was so corny.”

Dean, now seeming slightly embarrassed, cackled as well. “I know. I regretted it the moment I said it.”

She shook her head, her lower lip drawn between her lips to hold back her grin. Silence reigned between them. When she saw him worriedly glance at his phone again, she found herself adding in a light tone. “I haven’t known them for long, but have some trust in them. They’ll drop her back home safe. I’m sure she knows better than to get involved in their shenanigans.”

He sighed, then nodded hesitantly. “Yeah…you’re right.” He suddenly brought up his phone. “But just in case, let me text Aahil so he can talk to them. They listen to him more.”

At the mention of that man, Amina’s smile fell. She’d honestly forgotten of his existence with Dean around. He effortlessly took her mind off everything and gave her the inner peace of mind she so desperately desired.

With him, Aahil ceased to exist.

Eventually, Dean looked up having tucked his phone away. “Done.” He offered her a warm smile. “Now with that out of the way, why don’t we grab some dinner before heading back. We’re already out anyway. I know a great place. You up for some Tteokbokki?”

“Tteokbokki?” She repeated, salivating already at the thought of trying the famous Korean street food. She’d seen it on Korean dramas one too many times, and though she’s been in Seoul for months already, she’d never had the chance to try it.

It’s a Korean street food and popular snack made with chewy rice cakes, gochujang (spicy red pepper paste) sauce, and various additional ingredients.

It is a staple in Korean cuisine and is known for its fiery and savory flavor. Other ingredients commonly added to tteokbokki include fish cakes, boiled eggs, and vegetables. It can be found in many Korean restaurants, food stalls, and markets, and it’s a delightful and spicy treat for those who enjoy bold flavors.

And boy does she love spicy stuff.

Dean must’ve mistaken her inquiry for her lack of interest. So, he was quick to add. “If you don’t want, we can drop by a restaurant or something. I know fancy ones and I’m sure you’ll love the cuisine there—”

“Dean.” She cut him off.

He blinked, then met her gaze. “Yeah?”

Her lips slanted into a warm smile. “I’d love to have Tteokbokki with you.”

She could see the relief plastered across his features almost immediately. She found it cute. However, what she found even cuter and swoon worthy was the statement he uttered following her confession.

“So…” he released a hesitant breath, “it’s a date?”

She folded her lips in to hold back her grin, her stomach in flips at the question. She could feel the butterflies and they were quite a lot. Eventually, she nodded, her face breaking into a wide grin.

“It’s a date.”

A date with Dean Tafida. The charming gentlemen that somehow never fails to brighten up her mood.

****

Toh, Dean yazo ya raba gardama😂 Abeg give am wayyyyyyy.

The way I loved this chapter with all my heart ehn! 🤭😙 Before Aahil took over that is, because the man just dey do things somehow making my heart go dum dummmmm🤭😭❤️

Toh, yanxu dai Dean Shine Raba gardama for now, and if you fall for him kullukum munfiqun😂 Hatta Ana, Aahil? You get the joke? If you haven't seen the arabic version of Labarina please don't take it personally. It's a joke.

Remember when I said I'm in a bad mood? Wlh yall's comments made it better. I'm now preparing to write another chapter seff because why not??

Dean my love, accept my heart along with Amina’s. Don't break it😭

Warning! Yall are at the risk of falling in love with the Tafida men.

Don't you love how simple this book is? No major plot twists or psycho exes? I didn't think I was capable of writing something this simple and loving it really. But, I absolutely wholeheartedly do.

Let me know your thoughts on it.

Take care. Stay safe.

Love, Jannah Mia ❤️