CHAPTER 13: Khalid's Epiphany

​As the rumors surrounding Khalid's affections for Meenat continued to gain momentum, the young girl found herself increasingly beset by curiosity. She resolved to confront Khalid directly, initiating a phone call that would prove to be a turning point in their relationship. Khalid, initially taken aback by Meenat's call, soon regained his composure and reciprocated her greeting. As the conversation unfolded, Khalid broached the subject of the rumors, his tone tinged with a mix of trepidation and vulnerability. Meenat's responses, though initially hesitant, eventually revealed that she had indeed been aware of the speculation surrounding Khalid's intentions. As Khalid confessed his love for her, Meenat's demeanor transformed, her shyness momentarily supplanted by a sense of relief. With his declaration, Khalid posed a poignant question to Meenat, seeking a clear affirmation of her sentiments. Meenat's response, though initially taciturn, eventually yielded to Khalid's gentle prodding, as she articulated her reciprocal love for him. Their conversation concluded with an air of promise, as Khalid and Meenat embarked on a romantic journey that would navigate the complexities of their youth. Meenat, at the tender age of 12, had demonstrated a precocity that belied her years, leaving Khalid enamored and intrigued. As the subsequent year unfolded, Khalid's academic aspirations continued to be thwarted by the elusive goal of admission. His frustration reached a boiling point, prompting him to contemplate an alternative path, one that would eschew the uncertainty of academia for the more tangible realm of business. Meanwhile, the institution was rocked by the sudden demise of a prominent professor, whose health had been compromised by the stress of his candidates' admission woes. The tragedy served as a poignant reminder of the human cost of academic uncertainty. Four months later, the remedial units began issuing forms for interested candidates. Though Khalid remained skeptical, his younger brother surreptitiously gathered the necessary documents, photocopying them and completing the application process in the hopes that Khalid mighteventually reconsider. As the clock struck midnight, Khalid lay awake, his mind racing with the weight of his problems. In a moment of epiphany, he conceived a plan to alter his academic trajectory, abandoning his pursuit of accounting in favor of the more challenging field of law. Though he was aware that gaining admission to study law would be a formidable task, Khalid's determination remained unwavering. The following day, Khalid sought the counsel of a friend, inquiring about the prerequisites for studying law. His friend elaborated on the necessary procedures, and Khalid revealed his deficiency in Literature in English. However, his friend reassured him that this shortcoming was irrelevant, as he intended to apply for the LLB and Shariah program. This revelation filled Khalid with an unbridled sense of joy, and he resolved to apply for law in the forthcoming year. Khalid apprised his parents of his newfound aspirations, and they offered their unwavering support. Additionally, he was informed that his brother had taken the initiative to apply to the remedial unit on his behalf. This news filled Khalid with an overwhelming sense of gratitude, as he recognized the opportunity that lay before him. Fortune smiled upon Khalid, as his name appeared on the first list when the remedial list was released. With unbridled enthusiasm, he collected his admission letter,.completed the registration formalities, and commenced attending lectures with unrelenting dedication. Khalid's transformation into an extraordinary student was nothing short of remarkable. The remedial program, spanning a mere four months, culminated in an examination that would prove to be a watershed moment in Khalid's academic journey. His exceptional performance earned him the distinction of being the best student with the highest CGPA in the remedial arts program. Furthermore, Khalid's JAMB results revealed a score of 234, a testament to his unwavering perseverance. Though.the JAMB cut-off mark had been lowered to 120 due to the alarming rate of failure that year, universities were granted the discretion to raise their cut-off marks to a maximum of 160, contingent upon the performance of their applicants. Khalid's confidence soared, as he began to envision a future where he would don the mantle of a.lawyer. Though his initial aspirations had been focused on becoming an accountant, Khalid had come to realize that.his destiny lay in the realm of law.