Obscured Affection (Slow Updates)

One hour later, everyone was prepared with their cases and gathered before Ishaq. Each team presented their case one by one, while Ishaq observed them with a serious expression.

Team 1, handling the corporate fraud case, presented strong evidence but lacked compelling arguments. Their legal points were sound, but their presentation failed to make an impact. The winning team exposed financial loopholes and cornered the defense team, leading to their victory.

Team 2, handling the custody case, relied on an emotional appeal. Their case was backed by solid legal reasoning and touching sentiments. The mother's lawyers built a powerfully emotional case, which secured their win.

Team 3, dealing with the manslaughter case, impressed Ishaq the most. They cited relevant case law, countered objections skillfully, and presented highly logical arguments. The defense team, which included Yusuf and Mahnoor, successfully prevented the defendant from being labeled reckless, saving the accused.

It was Yusuf's performance that left the strongest impression on Ishaq. Ishaq had not expected him to display such remarkable skills. Yusuf's confidence and sharp legal acumen took Ishaq by surprise. When Ishaq deliberately asked tricky questions to test the teams, only Yusuf answered without hesitation. There was a hidden challenge in his eyes that Ishaq found intriguing.

Mahnoor also performed well, but she struggled to recall the specific legal provisions and sections applicable to the case. Yusuf stepped in and supported her, which Ishaq keenly noticed.

After evaluating everyone's performance, Ishaq said, "I am very pleased with your efforts. Although Team 1 made some mistakes, the other two teams performed exceptionally well. Congratulations, you have all passed this test."

Ishaq then assigned positions based on their performance. The four members of Team 1, who had been the least impressive, were assigned as assistants to the lawyers. They were given minor and basic tasks due to their weaker performance. The members of Team 2 were made senior interns, tasked with assisting their mentors in every case and helping with case studies. Team 3 was given the opportunity to work directly under Ishaq.

These teams were not the same ones Ishaq had assigned during the test. Instead, he reorganized them according to their individual skills. Team 3, which would work directly under Ishaq, included Arjun, Asfiya, Tara, and Mahnoor. Team 2, the senior interns, comprised Amber, Zoya, Arbaz, and Rahul. Team 1, the weakest performers, included Payal, Rida, and Feroz.

Ishaq was most impressed by Yusuf’s performance. Although Yusuf's initial report had been poor, his analytical thinking and case-solving skills made Ishaq reconsider. Ishaq decided to give Yusuf the best position—appointing him as his personal assistant for five months, so he could mentor him closely and transform him into an exceptional lawyer in a short time.

Yusuf and Mahnoor were both disheartened by Ishaq's decision. While Mahnoor was happy for her friend’s success and thrilled to work under Ishaq, she was also saddened that she didn’t get the position as his personal assistant. She wished to be closer to Ishaq, but despite her disappointment, she was still content.

Yusuf, on the other hand, was deeply upset that he was separated from Mahnoor’s team and instead had to work directly under Ishaq—the man Mahnoor was infatuated with. He sat quietly, listening to Ishaq, feeling disheartened, while everyone else celebrated their positions.

"It would be better if you all get to your respective positions now. I don’t want to waste any more of your or my precious time!" Ishaq ordered sternly before walking away.

Mariyam and the other mentors briefed everyone on their assigned tasks according to their positions. Upon hearing his responsibilities, Yusuf's face lit up with a smile. Despite being separated from Mahnoor’s team, he was relieved that they would still be working on the same floor, together. However, this time, Ishaq stood between them—a thought that troubled Yusuf. But when he saw Mahnoor’s bright smile, he forgot his worries and smiled back at her like a fool, unable to take his eyes off her.