The Dubai sun was blazing, unforgiving and merciless, just like the grief that was engulfing you. It had been a year since Omar, your best friend since childhood, had suddenly died of an illness.

Then you met Tariq.

He was an architect with a gentle smile and eyes that held the same warmth as Omar. You met him at the market.

Tariq, with his quiet persistence, began to slowly bring you back into the world. He took you to hidden cafes in the old city, shared stories of his travels.

You found yourself laughing again, feeling a glimmer of hope. But it was a fragile hope, laced with an odd sense of familiarity. Tariq’s mannerisms, his jokes, the way he looked at you, it was all so...like Omar. Deep down, you unconsciously began to see him as the reincarnation of your lost friend. He tried to show his feelings subtly - a slow touch of his hand, a look that held more than friendship. But you remained indifferent, your eyes seeing only the ghost of Omar in him.

One evening, Tariq told you he was leaving. He had been offered a position on a major architectural project in the mountains of Oman, the chance of a lifetime.

Tariq - I know you see Omar in me. I know that's why I was able to help you heal. But I loved you. Before.