Maryam's Beautiful Story

Outing

Maryam's pov
   Zayn had to travel to Chad urgently for a business meeting, and though I missed him already, I decided to stay a few more days with Mama and Papa before going back home. The house was always livelier with Khair running around and everyone fussing over her.
One quiet afternoon, while sipping my tea and scrolling through my phone, I saw an invitation for Princess Aysha ’s birthday. I smiled immediately, she’s one of my favorites, and I wouldn’t miss her birthday for anything.
   That morning, I took my time getting ready. I wore a gorgeous red off-shoulder gown with bishop sleeves that flowed elegantly down to my wrists. The gown had delicate touches of black floral embroidery around the waist and hemline, giving it that royal finish. I paired it with a red-and-black turban and bold red lipstick that tied the whole look together.
When I looked at myself in the mirror, I couldn’t help but smile. Zayn would have loved this, I thought, imagining the way he always stared at me like I was the only woman in the world.
Satisfied with my look, I stepped out of the room and headed to Mama’s. She looked up from her prayer mat, and her face immediately lit up.
“Awwwwn! My baby is looking stunning, masha Allah!” she said, admiring me from head to toe.
I blushed, twirling a little and said playfully, “Thank you, the only chocolate in my pounding machine!”
She laughed so hard, shaking her head. “You and your mouth, Maryam!”
After hugging her goodbye, I grabbed my purse and keys, ready to conquer the world, or at least the palace.
   I drove to the palace myself, feeling all shades of confident. The wind blew gently against my face as my car glided down the familiar road. Gosh! I wished Zayn was here with me, he would’ve definitely stolen glances the whole ride and teased me endlessly.
When I arrived at the palace, it was beautifully decorated, a blend of gold, cream, and lilac. The scent of fresh roses filled the air, and soft music played in the background. I quickly called Auta, and we entered the hall together like queens making an entrance.
   The sight before me was pure joy. I spotted my friends at the center of the hall, dancing with the celebrant. Nafisa was twirling her scarf dramatically while dancing, as usual . Hashim was busy piling food on her plate like there was a competition going on. Sakina was glued to her phone, smiling suspiciously probably chatting with Abdallah, no doubt . And then Jega, sitting close to her Ibrahim, pretending to be all calm but her eyes told another story.
I laughed quietly to myself. Some things never change.
Soon, the celebrant, Princess Aysha herself, came over to where I was sitting. She looked absolutely stunning in her royal blue gown and diamond jewelry. I stood up, hugged her warmly, and handed her the gift I brought.
“Happy birthday, my princess,” I said. “May Allah bless you with all your heart’s desires.”
“Ameen, my love!” she replied, grinning from ear to ear.
The rest of the evening was pure magic. We danced until our feet ached, took countless pictures, ate until we couldn’t anymore, and laughed until tears rolled down our faces. The hall was filled with music, flashing lights, and endless chatter.
At some point, I noticed Ameer, oh, that guy, following Aysha everywhere like her shadow. He didn’t let her out of his sight for even a second. The way he looked at her melted my heart. True love still exists after all, I thought with a smile.
   As the night went on, we all gathered around for a group photo, the kind of picture that freezes time, capturing every bit of laughter, love, and mischief.
By the time the party ended, my cheeks hurt from smiling so much. I said my goodbyes, hugged everyone tightly, and made my way back home.
   The streets were calm, the night breeze cool. I played soft music in the car and thought about how peaceful life had become, Alhamdulillah for that.
When I got home, Khair came running to me, her tiny arms open wide. I scooped her up, showering her with kisses. “Did you miss Mama, my angel?” I whispered, and she giggled, nodding.
After playing with her for a while, I decided to bake a small chocolate cake. The smell filled the house, rich and warm, making me nostalgic. I sliced a piece for Mama and Papa and then curled up on the couch with Khair beside me, watching all the Zee World episodes I’d missed.
Just as the clock struck ten, my phone rang. Zayn’s name appeared on the screen. My heart skipped.
“Asalamu alaikum, my darling,” he said, his voice deep and calm.
“Wa alaikum salam, My love,” I teased, laughing softly.
He chuckled. “I miss you already. How was the party?”
I told him everything, about Aysha, the decorations, my friends, the food, the dancing, even about Ameer’s clinginess. He laughed so hard that I could almost see his smile through the phone.
We talked about everything, Khair, home, future plans, random jokes, until my eyelids grew heavy. The last thing I remember was Zayn’s voice saying softly, “I love you, Maryam. Sleep well, my queen.”
And just like that, I drifted off to sleep, smiling, my phone still pressed against my ear, my heart at peace. ❤️

@yesmen234 this is for you
ILYSM ❤️