Haroun and Layla by: Tasneem Gaffoor

In the second instalment of the Salaam2Soulm8 Series, “Haroun & Layla” tells the story of two 23-year-olds unknowingly connected through their shared love for online racing but distanced by personal challenges in the real world.

Haroun, a charming final-year Engineering student, effortlessly balances gaming, studies, and his social life. Known for his magnetic personality, he’s popular among friends and admired by many. However, with final exams over, Haroun must confront a deeper truth — his social success masks the uncertainty of who he truly is beyond campus life.

Layla, on the other hand, is navigating the aftermath of divorce. She spends her days at her family’s tyre shop, where Haroun has noticed her many times, mistaking her cold demeanour for indifference. What Haroun doesn’t realise is that Layla is on a healing journey, using gaming as her escape. Neither of them knows that they’ve been racing buddies online for four years — trusting each other behind usernames, while remaining strangers in person.

As their worlds finally collide, Haroun and Layla begin to grow individually and together, falling in love despite the expectations Haroun’s parents have for their only son. Layla learns to love again with the unwavering support of her family and friends, emphasising the power of community in healing.

Told from alternating perspectives, “Haroun & Layla” is a heartwarming exploration of identity, growth, and love. The story highlights the importance of self-discovery, the strength of family, and the courage to follow one’s heart, even when the path ahead is uncertain.