Enwrapped

Chapter 09

Wedding fervor had kindled within Saboor's home, yet an unsettling air of estrangement lingered. Feroza's relatives inundated the house, drawn by her calls, their polite smiles masking an envy that simmered beneath the surface. They greeted Feroza warmly, their reverence for her unwavering, but their regard for Saboor remained tepid at best. Veiled behind congeniality, they whispered among themselves, casting a shadow over the usual jubilant ambiance of a wedding.

Saboor recognized these relatives, familiar faces from numerous family gatherings where their distant demeanor had become a predictable pattern. She understood the reason behind their behavior, for she had achieved success at a young age, a feat that set her apart from her cousins and peers who had struggled between various jobs. She had even lent a hand to some of them in their careers, yet instead of gratitude, her efforts were met with disapproving taunts.

"She acts like she's a bigshot, but we know her true nature."

"Yes, she's too proud. What harm would it do her to offer greetings or spare a moment with us?"

In the midst of this strained atmosphere, Aynoor navigated effortlessly, serving as a reassuring presence for her elder sister amidst the familial tension. She glided through the gatherings with grace, well aware of the contrasting treatment between her sister and the rest. Her ability to blend seamlessly with everyone masked her acute perception of the intricate dynamics within their home.

Meanwhile, Saboor sought refuge behind her mother's dupatta, a shield against the scrutinizing gazes of these relatives summoned by her mother. She dreaded their presence, anticipating a taunt or a cutting remark at any given moment. Their ceaseless inquiries about her fiancé, her in-laws, the engagement details, and the dowry lingered in the air, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. Some had even begun questioning the haste of the impending marriage. Saboor found herself without answers, and her mother, indifferent to her unease, remained resolute.

"They're my relatives, my kin and blood. Show some decency and spend time with them! They've come all this way for your wedding, haven't they?"

~

Saboor sat amidst the whirlwind of relatives, their voices merging into an indistinguishable buzz around her. She longed for her mother's presence, a reassuring touch amidst the chaos. Yet, Feroza seemed preoccupied, flitting from one guest to another as if tethered by an invisible obligation.

"Ammi, can I speak with you for a moment?" Saboor's voice, barely audible amidst the conversations, reached Feroza as she engaged with a distant cousin. Feroza glanced briefly at Saboor, nodding, promising to return soon. However, minutes turned into an eternity, and Feroza remained engrossed in the conversation, leaving Saboor stranded in her own home.

Confusion etched across Saboor's face as she watched her mother drift further away. She couldn't fathom why Feroza seemed detached, offering casual smiles to others while seemingly oblivious to her own child yearning for her attention.

Finally, mustering courage, Saboor approached her mother once more. "Ammi, please, it's important."

Feroza turned, her attention momentarily snagged by Saboor's pleading tone. "I'll be right back," she promised to her conversation partner before addressing Saboor. "Yes, what is it?"

But just as Saboor gathered herself to speak, another relative called for Feroza's attention, drawing her away once more. Saboor watched in dismay as her mother left her standing alone, the words she intended to utter, trapped within her.

Left adrift amidst the sea of unfamiliar faces, she felt a pang of abandonment. This wasn't just about the wedding preparations; it was a longing for her mother's support and reassurance as she prepared to embark on a new chapter of her life. The ache of being overlooked when she needed her mother the most intensified within her.