Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah Knows, while you know not.
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:216)_______________________________
Omaiza's PoV
Once we entered, the manager guided us to the room. When we took a turn down a hallway, a party popper suddenly burst, causing me to jump and instinctively cling to Luth's arms. It felt oddly reassuring."Ya rabbi," I squealed.
"SURPRISE!" A chorus of young voices erupted as a group of guys and girls appeared. Some were familiar faces from the auditorium, while others were strangers. I stood frozen, my heart racing.
To add to the awkwardness, Luth released my hands and stepped forward.
A bouquet of roses was presented to him. Among the vibrant blooms, he singled out a single red rose.
"Omaiza," he began, holding my hands, "I may not be the perfect life partner, but I want to be the best for you." The room filled with a collective "aww."
"Let's continue, folks. Don't spoil the ambiance," Luth interrupted playfully, his eyes avoiding mine.
"This bouquet represents a spectrum of emotions, which I hope to share with you as we journey through life," he said, a spark lighting up his eyes.
With a flourish, he knelt before me. My cheeks flushed crimson. Why was he going to such lengths?
"Omaiza, will you give 'US' a chance?" he asked, prompting cheers and encouragement from the crowd. With a nervous hand, I accepted his proposal, my reasons unclear even to me.
Luth rose, his smile impossible to hide. He introduced me to his cousins and friends.
"Assalamu alaikum, beautiful bhabhi (sister-in-law)," Fathima, Luth's sister, greeted warmly, embracing me.
I returned the smile, feeling an instant connection with her.
As the guests gradually departed, the relief of solitude washed over us. Yet, I soon realized I wasn't truly alone.
Anxious thoughts swirled within me, conjuring various scenarios. I looked down at my hands, fidgeting with the hem of my gown. How had I allowed myself to get caught up in this? I felt miserable, unlovable, and tainted, unworthy of the attention Luth was showering on me.
"Omaiza? Are you alright?"
"Uhm, yeah."
"You must be tired. Freshen up before dinner," he suggested, a hint of disappointment in his voice at my unexpected question.
"Dinner?" I sensed his surprise.
"I had something planned for us. But it's alright if you're tired," he replied, his disappointment palpable.
"No, it's fine. I'll get ready for dinner," I assured him, offering a genuine smile.
In the changing room, I refreshed myself and donned a bottle green floral maxi gown. Emerging, I inadvertently caused Luth to choke on his drink.
Concerned, I patted his back absentmindedly, then quickly pulled away, mortified.
"I'm so sorry. I...I didn't mean to touch you," I stammered.
He wiped his mouth and approached me. I closed my eyes, unsure of how to react. He gently tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear, lifting my chin to meet his gaze.
"Listen, Omaiza. You're my halal, just as I am yours," he said softly, his hands cupping my face. "I know you doubt yourself, but I promise I won't make you uncomfortable in any way. I see you as someone pure and beautiful. I genuinely want to make you feel loved because I truly like you."
My stomach fluttered as he spoke, his words soothing the turmoil within me.
"I want to give our relationship a chance to fly. In sha Allah, together we can overcome your doubts and fears."
A mix of emotions swirled within me, and I felt a glimmer of hope in Luth's sincerity.
As he continued to hold my gaze, his thumb brushed softly against my cheek. His touch was gentle, like a whisper of reassurance. It was a tender gesture that sent shivers down my spine, dispelling some of my self-doubt.
I blinked back tears, overwhelmed by his genuine affection. Luth's warmth enveloped me, a shield against my own insecurities. He leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper.
"You are not alone in this, Omaiza. I am here for you, every step of the way."
His words were a balm to my wounded heart, and I felt a surge of emotion. A delicate smile tugged at the corners of my lips.
"Thank you, Luth. I appreciate that more than you know."
His smile deepened, and he reached out, intertwining his fingers with mine. The connection was electrifying, a tangible promise of his unwavering support.
"I meant what I said earlier. I want us to discover the beauty of our journey together," he said, his voice resonating with sincerity.
My heart swelled, and a newfound sense of courage stirred within me. Maybe, just maybe, this leap of faith could lead to something truly extraordinary.
YOU ARE READING
Accepted With Flaws
General FictionMisfortune. Easy to pronounce yet difficult to face. * *blurb* "In the dim light of her room, amidst a storm of emotions, she shatters her glasses, each shard reflecting the chaos within. The pain in her heart deepens as she questions the harm she...