The Crown Of Agony

6

The ground was transformed completely with the strings of marigold and jasmine flowers cascading down the marquee, their fragrant petals swirling by the touch of the air.

Zarnoor was dressed in a navy blue anarkali suit, was looking so gorgeous. Her brown eyes were underlined by kohl and some eyeshadow, twinkling with excitement, her waist length black hairs were flowing on her back with a red rose tucked in her hair. She was so excited to meet her cousin Zara, as it felt like they were away from each other since ages.

After exchanging greetings with some relatives Rabiya, her mother said, "Come, Quratulain, let's go and meet Zara and Abbas."

The limelight of the reception was undoubtedly the bride and the groom, seated on the stage decorated with shaded drapery, fresh flowers, and twinkling fairy lights. Zara and Abbas sat there, a perfect couple looking stunning in their wedding attire, welcoming guests with warm smiles that shine as brightly as the stars twinkling in the sky.

Zarnoor couldn't help but feel captivated by the mehndi-adorned hands of the bride, her traditional embroidered bridal outfits, the heavy gold and silver jewellery, floral garlands, and the vibrant colors that surrounded them, all spoke of a rich cultural heritage.

Zarnoor's heart swelled with happiness as she embraced Zara warmly, an enchanting smile dancing on her face. "Congratulations, Zara. You make a stunning bride." Zara's eyes sparkled with happiness, as she playfully teased, "Well, someone's looking extra beautiful tonight!"

Their playful banter was met with laughter and joy. Zarnoor shared a playful look with the bride and groom, relishing the joyous moment. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of joy and tears as she watched her cousin Zara, now married, receiving the blessings and well-wishes of the guests.

As the function continued, Zarnoor found herself surrounded by relatives. It was a typical scene at weddings and receptions, especially in their close-knit village. The questions and comments about her own marriage were inevitable, and Zarnoor has prepared herself for them. They gathered around her, sipping chai and sharing their matchmaking wisdom.

"Zarnoor beta, when do you plan to settle down?" one of them inquired, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.

Another relative chimed in, "Yes, yes! Zarnoor. It's your turn next!"

Zarnoor gave them a polite smile, but the questions made her feel heavy. She couldn't help but feel the urge to find someone who cherished her just as much as Abbas cherished Zara. Watching the newlyweds, their affectionate gestures and whispered conversations, stirred a longing within her.

Just as the inquiries were starting to become overwhelming, Zarnoor's younger brother, Mustafa, stepped in for her rescue. After her father he had always been her pillar of support, understanding her dreams and aspirations.

"Aunty, diamonds are precious because they are rare. Zarnoor is our family's hidden gem, and we're in no hurry to get separate with her sparkle so soon," Mustafa quipped, his words met with chuckles and admiration. Zarnoor couldn't help but smile at her brother's response, grateful for his knack for diffusing tension with charm..

The aunties exchanged knowing glances, their curiosity piqued. Zarnoor's unwavering determination to prioritize her education was admirable but also a source of envy for those who couldn't fathom the depths of her dreams.

Unable to bear the constant prying any longer, Zarnoor excused herself and walked away from the lively crowd. She found solace in the food area, where a lavish delicacies awaited the guests. The aroma of spicy biryani and the sight of golden jalebis beckoned to her.

Zarnoor couldn't help but smile as she reached for her favorite treat, a bite of creamy rasgullas. The sweetness of the syrup and the softness of the spongy sweets were a comforting embrace amidst the chaos of her emotions.