Returning the Favor - By Ayesha Mushtaq

Written By: Ayesha Mushtaq

Category: Flash Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a gripping piece titled "Returning the Favor," Ayesha Mushtaq offers a compelling narrative of escape and unexpected connections. Submitted to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work of flash fiction delves into the themes of identity and gratitude amidst a backdrop of conflict. Ayesha weaves a tale that captures the tension of a daring escape, as well as the warmth of human connections that transcend boundaries, making it a notable entry in this year’s competition.

About the Work

"Returning the Favor" is a vivid exploration of the human spirit's resilience amidst adversity. Ayesha Mushtaq masterfully captures the tension of escape and the unexpected bonds that form in dire circumstances. The narrative is rich with imagery, from the brooding skies to the dense forest, creating a palpable sense of urgency. Through the characters Arzhel and Iris, Ayesha examines themes of gratitude and destiny, inviting readers to reflect on the power of kindness and fate.

Returning the Favor

Original Submission by Ayesha Mushtaq

He peeked at the sky, which was a tapestry of dark clouds, brooding and swollen, ready to unleash a storm that had been brewing for days. He let out an annoyed sigh, did this have to happen on the day he decided to run away?

He was running away from the camp he had been held hostage in. The enemy’s camp. They had captured him during one of their surprise attacks and had taken revenge by stealing ten men. And Arzhel was one of them.

Though today, after much difficulty, he had gotten out. He didn’t know where he was going, but he knew he was much safer now that he was away from the enemy’s territory. Arzhel just had to find the border, which he knew was somewhere near this place. But how would he find it? He had no idea.

There was a forest nearby, and he took refuge in it. He knew it would take him a long time to figure the way out of it, but that wasn’t the main concern he had right now. His stomach grumbled and he knew he had to find something to eat soon, the prisoner’s food at the enemy’s camp barely filled his stomach.

He slowly started looking around, there were various fruits on trees, but the main question was, were they poisonous? Just as he was about to take a step forward, he heard the rustling of leaves. Alert, he drew out his dagger which he stole from the camp. Carefully scanning his surroundings.

A figure stepped out, staring right at him. Arzhel’s breath hitched as he scanned her. Her face was a delicate balance of sharp cheekbones, a small nose, and pouted lips, with piercing blue eyes that contrasted against the deep tan of her skin, framed by a cascade of jet-black hair. She seemed awfully familiar.

“Where to, soldier?” She spoke, her voice filled with curiosity.

It made sense for her to think he was a soldier; he had been wearing his uniform for the past eleven days. Was she unaware that he wasn’t from this country? Well, this was a good opportunity, Arzhel thought.

Clearing his throat, he replied, “Just going to the border.”

The girl let an amused chuckle, “Through the forest? That’s new.”

Ignoring her statement, he said, “Mind guiding me to it? I’m new here.”

She tipped her head at him, scanning his face, “And what would I get for helping you?”

Arzhel cursed under his breath, he hadn’t thought about that part, but nevertheless said, “Anything you desire.”

The girl seemed satisfied and started walking ahead to one of the trees, “Hungry?”

He nodded his head in agreement.

She smiled before grabbing a stick from the ground and hitting it on the fruit hanging on the tree, making it fall with a thud. ‘Was it that easy?’ Arzhel thought.

She brought it to him and split the coconut in half, “Half for me, and half for you.”

Arzhel smiled and grabbed the piece from her hand. He licked his lips and quickly devoured the fruit as if he hadn’t eaten for days. Well, that was kind of right.

It had been a few hours since they had started walking, a chill nipped at air, the frosting wind howling through the barren trees. Arzhel could barely catch up with the girl, who was walking way ahead.

A question aroused in his mind, and he asked before realizing, “You didn’t tell me your name.”

The girl stopped and looked back at him, “Iris. Iris Winnow.”

His breathing became uneven at the mention of her name, why did it sound oddly familiar? He shook off the thoughts and nodded his head, “Arzhel Williams.”

Iris smiled, a dimple forming on the left side of her cheek, which made Arzhel’s heart quicken, what was happening to him?

They continued walking after that, a comfortable silence lingering in the air. Arzhel tried hard to remember where he had met her before.

“I’ve met you before.” Iris's voice cut through the silence, calm yet curious.

Arzhel’s eyes widened as he started at her back, “I knew I had seen you somewhere.”

Iris chuckled, “You don’t remember?”

Arzhel’s breathing became slower, his thoughts racing like a storm he couldn’t outrun. Yes. He did. It all clicked now. Arzhel had been part of a reconnaissance mission near the border. He and his unit had been tasked with gathering intelligence about the enemy’s movements in the area. They were sent as undercover spies to a small village, where he first saw her.

Her state was disheveled as she struggled to carry a bag of flour back to her house. Arzhel suddenly had the urge to help her out and quickly grabbed the heavy bag from her.

Iris had brought him all the way to the end of the forest now, from where the border could clearly be seen.

Arzhel was about to thank her before she cut in between, “That day. You had helped me without knowing who I was, it was you. I looked for you after that, to return your favor, but didn’t find you.”

Arzhel didn’t know what to say, she had realized his absence.

“I know you’re not from here, and that’s why you’re trying to escape. I don’t blame you though, the way they treat you guys is brutal.” She spoke softly, staring into his eyes.

Arzhel stepped closer, “So you only helped me because of that day?”

Iris giggled, “Of course. As I said before, to return your favor, Arzhel.”

Arzhel seemed baffled, “But I didn’t think you’d remember that.”

“How could I forget? You were the only one who bothered to stop and help, and unknowingly gained my respect that day.” She smiled at him.

Arzhel couldn’t stop himself anymore, “Come with me.”

Iris creased her brows, “What? Why?”

“You saved me,” He replied, stepping closer, “But I can’t shake the feeling that I know you- that we were meant to meet again. Come with me.”

Iris stared at him; her lips parted as though she wanted to protest. But the words couldn’t come out.

“And what makes you so sure?” She whispered, her voice like a sigh lost in the air.

Arzhel reached out, gently cupping her face, “Because I can’t imagine walking away from you.”

Without waiting for her reply, Arzhel leaned in, his lips softly brushing against hers. It was a kiss that spoke of everything unsaid- of promises, of gratitude, of a future they hadn’t yet defined but wanted to be a part of together.

They finally pulled apart, their foreheads resting against each other, “Come with me Iris.” Arzhel breathed out, “We’ll figure it out together.”

Iris smiled, a soft, knowing smile, “Alright.” She spoke.

Hand in hand, they crossed the border, leaving behind the forest and uncertainty of the past. They didn’t know what the future held, but as long as they had each other, nothing else mattered.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices and innovative storytelling from around the world. Participants engage in a rich tapestry of literary genres, showcasing their talents in poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. This competition is a testament to the universal power of words, drawing entries that captivate and inspire audiences globally.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ayesha Mushtaq for her contribution with "Returning the Favor" to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her narrative not only captivates but also inspires reflection on the nuances of human connections. We are grateful for her participation and look forward to seeing more of her creative endeavors.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.