Inevitable Destiny- Mayi Ri

(10)

Sameena and Aayesha found themselves sitting in their tranquil backyard, a late-night tea session that had become a cherished habit. The only sound that filled the night air was the gentle sipping of tea, a peaceful interlude reserved solely for the two of them.

Sameena looked up from her cup, concern etched in her eyes as she observed her devrani lost in deep thought. "Aayesha, what's on your mind? Is everything alright?" she inquired with a genuine desire to understand her sister-in-law's worries.

Aayesha managed a weak smile as she answered, "Ji, Bhabhi, Alhamdulillah, everything is fine. I was just pondering about Aini and Fakhir." Her voice carried a hint of concern.
"Do you think they'll be able to handle such a significant responsibility? It's just... marriage is a big step, and I can't help but worry for them." The subject of marriage was a painful open wound for Aayesha, and it cast a long shadow over her perspective on the young couple's future.

Sameena sighed and replied, her own voice tinged with a touch of sadness. "Honestly, Aayesha, I don't know. They're so young, and when I look at them, I can't help but wonder if they can shoulder the weight of a commitment which, sadly they haven't made. Marriage isn't just about age; it's about two hearts willingly accepting each other. Only then can they navigate the challenging path that lies ahead, filled with numerous obstacles."

Sameena had tried tirelessly to make her husband understand, to make him realize the importance of age and willing acceptance in a marriage, but her efforts had largely fallen on deaf ears.

"I am praying that Allah swt. puts respect, care and understanding in their hearts for each other. I will not be able to handle if anything happens to my Aini... and of course Fakhir is as precious to me as Aini is." Aayesha said with tears in her eyes.

"Ameen. May Allah swt. give them the courage to stand together... against all the problems" Sameena said softly, while picking her cup back and taking another sip from it.

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It was Sunday night and they were going back to school from Monday, all the functions were done and it was time to return back to the world of studies, assignments and upcoming exams.

Aini and Fakhir were in their room readying their uniform, school bags and other important stuff... like leave applications, for school tomorrow; when Fakhir spoke up:

"Aini, what is with you for the last two days?" he asked and Aini's look gave the impression that she was totally clueless of what he is asking about.

Fakhir kept his school bag aside, sat on the bed and continued

"I mean... why are you always so dressed up nowadays? It's not like we are going out or someone is coming to meet you." He finally asked her

Aini, who never liked to dress up... can herself feel a change in her looks in just two days of her marriage and all of this was because of the instructions from the elders of her house.

'You need to look good'... 'Is this a way a new bride dresses up?' ... 'Where are your gold bangles?' ... 'You should get ready for Fakhir.' And the list goes on and on.

She herself had almost tripped because of the long dupattas and the chan-chan of her bangles, was like indicating everyone that she coming or going somewhere.

"Oh hello... madam. I am talking to you..." Fakhir clicked his fingers to bring Aini out of her thoughts.

"Huh... hmm" Aini looked at Fakhir and then with a mischievous glint in her eye and a sweet smile playing at the corners of her lips "Oh, this" she began "this... it's all for you. You do remember I'm the freshly minted bride of our family, right? Your lovely wife, dressed to impress."

She twirled in her outfit, exaggerating her point and then asked "So... dearest husband, what's your verdict... kesi lag rahi hoon?"

Fakhir was left utterly speechless. She, getting ready for him? It felt like a bizarre twist in the universe's grand plot. He blinked in astonishment before finally rising from his place and advancing towards her.

Aini's face transformed from anticipation to confusion as he moved closer. But before she could react or utter a word, a gentle touch on her forehead interrupted her thoughts. She gazed upward to find Fakhir towering over her, his right hand resting on her forehead.

"Feeling under the weather, perhaps? A fever or a headache, maybe?" Fakhir inquired, his voice dripping with fake concern

Aini furrowed her brows, initially totally confused by his act... but when in no time Fakhir burst into a laughter, she groaned and rolled her eyes at him.

She swatted his arm and pushed him back, who was still laughing like an idiot.

"Duffer"

Then she quickly put her things in place and started winding up... with an annoyed face.

Aini stood before the dressing table, removing her jewellery one piece at a time. Fakhir, having finished his laughing fit, grabbed his pillow and made his way to the sofa (as it was his day today).

Aini after completing her evening routine, switched off the lights and nestled into the bed.

Just as she was on the brink of sleep, a soft voice broke the silence.

"By the way, acchi lag rahi thi tum"
Those were the last words she heard before she slowly succumbed to the pull of sleep.

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