Dhaagey: The Ties that Bind Us

17. nakhre

Maryam knew a lot about her brother, and one of the things she knew was that his mind became almost impossible to change once he decided on something.

Yet, there was one person who always managed to sway him easily.

Meerab had always held a power over Murtasim. Even as children, when they wanted Murtasim to help them with something, it was always Meerab who approached him, for Murtasim could say no to anyone but her. Even in the off chance he said no, she only had to pout or beg, and he melted like ice-cream on a hot day.

Maryam wasn't the only one that knew that.

It seemed like her mother did too, for she looked to Meerab and arched her eyebrow when Murtasim insisted he did not want to attend a walima of a family friend, and that he would send his congratulations alone.

Maryam held back a smile as Meerab nodded inconspicuously as Maa Begum left the room.

Seizing the opportunity, Meerab picked up the teapot and poured a cup of tea for Murtasim, expertly adding half a spoon of sugar, just the way he liked it, before hanging it to him. Her smile radiated warmth and affection, enchanting him with every glance. It was a smile that could melt even the hardest of hearts, particularly the one that loved her most.

Meerab sighed as Murtasim took a sip of his tea, a genuine smile formed on his lips, he seemed pleased by its taste. Meerab's voice filled with a longing that Maryam knew would tug at Murtasim's heartstrings. "I haven't been to a wedding in so long."

Maryam couldn't resist smacking Rumi discreetly, silently warning her not to interrupt the precious moment unfolding before them.

"I want to go...you should come, please?" Meerab asked softly, her eyes widening and lips pulling into a subtle pout.

Murtasim's gaze softened as he looked at Meerab, seemingly captivated by her. He appeared smitten, his eyes reflecting tenderness, and his parted lips hinting at unsaid words of adoration.

Meerab leaned closer, her eyes widening and her lips forming a subtle pout. Maryam fought back laughter, relishing in the way her brother's face melted into a lovestruck expression. "Please, Murtasim?" Meerab added, her voice gentle and coaxing.

Maryam watched as her brother took another sip before nodding. "Fine."

A mischievous snicker escaped Rumi's lips, drawing Murtasim's attention.

His eyes widened, as if he had only just realized the presence of others at the table.

His gaze landed on Rumi, then shifted to Meerab. "You set me up!" He accused, his eyes dancing with surprise. "I am not coming!" He declared, standing up abruptly and making his way out of the room.

"Rumiiii." Meerab let out a whine, shooting Rumi a playful glare before hastily rising from her seat and chasing after Murtasim.

The sound of their footsteps echoed through the hallway as they disappeared from sight.

Left behind, Maryam whacked Rumi's arm, wishing she had stayed silent for another few seconds.

"She's going to convince him anyways." Rumi remarked casually, all of them knowing all too well the power Meerab held over her brother's heart.

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Meerab's heart raced as she followed Murtasim out of the dining room, her hand reaching out to grab his warm one, halting him in his tracks. She looked up at him, her eyes pleading, silently begging him to understand.

Murtasim raised an eyebrow, a silent question etched on his face.

"I really want us to go, and for you to come with us." She said, her voice barely audible yet laced with a plea that resonated within her soul.