Love In War

Nikkah

"Salaam Firdaus!" The humbling voice shouted from a mere distance, nothing but a hand in the air could be seen. I turned to look at Abbu (whom offcourse looked as confused as I did), noticing that a masculine voice called my name. Sameer. He walked closer, between the small space amongst the guests. A white chikankari Kurta with an off white, creamish jacket. His smile wiped of his face as soon as he made eye contact with my Abbu - the fear (it actually made me laugh).
"Walekum Aslam Sameer" Abbu turned to me, probably thinking how dare I talk to a boy with such people around me.
"Abbu, this is Sameer. Saad's friend."
"Aslam Walekum Sir, nice to meet you."
"Walekum Aslam, nice to meet you as well."
Abbu was a businessman so he did seem firm but in reality, he's the kindest person I've ever met. He had spoilt Aayat and I growing up and till date.

I remember when Aayat told her parents about Saad whom were surprisingly understanding, it was my Abbu whom she had to convince. He's a very overprotective father, especially since I don't have a mother. Perhaps he'll choose a groom for me and I'll have to abide (not that I want to) but I know that he will cry on my Ruksati more than anyone else.

"So Sameer what do you do?" Oh god here we go, this felt like the same grilling session he gave Saad.
"Sir, I'm a financier. A small but happy job."
"Aah, well it's a job at the end of the day. Pleased to meet you boy, if you do need anything please don't hesitate to ask."he smiled and greeted his friend.

I looked at Sameer and then at my father, greeting Bilal Uncle. Uncle had a son, Imran, he was rich and well educated, the son of my fathers friend. But mostly, a Muslim. It been made quite clear since Imran returned to Kashmir from Delhi (from university) that we were going to get married. Imran's mother always treated me well but Imran was more of a brotherly guardian rather than a suitor. I walked to Sameer and we both made way to Saad and Aayat. Walking pass Imran clearly made an statement for his continuously staring self.

"I'm so sorry about my Abbu, he's always like this. I mean like with Saad as well he's just.."
"It's fine Firdaus, I understand. Mere Baba bhi aise hain Meri behen ke saath."
"I suppose all parents are over protective then."
"Yep, Firni?" His warm hands stroked against mine as he gave me the small bowlof what tasted like sweet heaven.
"Aren't you having any?" Please don't tell me he didn't like Firni!
"I'm not a fan...surprisingly." Oh no!
How could one not such a delicacy!
"You are a disgrace to society!" I say, hopefully my words slapped him across the face.
"I've had a bad experience and the taste doesn't really appeal to me!"
Sameer, you are a menace! How can someone not like Firni, it's so delicious and aromatic...uff!

The Nikkah was read and 'qubool hain' was said three times by both bride and groom! They were married! Aayat's Ruksati was directly after the Nikkah. Tears smeared down our face like no other, kajal streamed like the Dal against our cheeks. I hugged her tightly as she was leaving her once home. It was sad to see my bestest friend go but so happy to see her begin her new chapter! We waved goodbye.

I turned around,a gentleman holding a tissue and smirking. Trying to not laugh and be polite at the same time. Sameer. He gave me the tissue and stood by my side and disappeared amongst the guests - making his way to Aayat's new home.