After the nikah, the air was thick with a mix of exhaustion and curiosity.
The guests had bid their farewells, leaving only the immediate family and the newlywed couple behind.Habib, Sarah's father, could sense the questions brewing in her mind. He knew she was eager to understand how Kashan had replaced Rehan as her groom. Though not saddened by the revelation, Sarah was taken aback by the sudden turn of events.
"Let's take the bride and groom to their room for now. We can discuss it later when everyone has had some rest," Habib suggested, aware of the weariness that had settled upon everyone.
The cousins were yawning, and even Ahad, the son of Zaidan and Haania, had already dozed off. Habiba, Sarah's mother, called upon Sarah's cousins, Areeba and Laiba, to escort the couple to their room. Hassan, Zakir, and Zaidan joined them, accompanied by Hania.
As the elders prepared to leave, Ayesha, Sarah's aunt, couldn't contain her shock any longer. "How did Kashan end up replacing Rehan? We all know what happened two years ago, and yet..."
Her words hung in the air, leaving a sense of unease. Habib remained silent, choosing to leave instead, aware that Ayesha was not a well-intentioned woman.
Following him, Habiba also departed, leaving the room filled with a sense of disappointment directed towards Ayesha.
Fatima, Sarah's sister, stepped forward, trying to diffuse the tension. "Ayesha, let's discuss this later. Everyone is exhausted right now," she suggested, hoping to postpone the conversation for a more appropriate time.
One by one, the remaining family members left, leaving only Humaira and Ayesha behind. Humaira, who had been shocked since the moment she learned that Kashan had married Sarah, felt her heart break.
She had once loved him, and now, she discovered him married to her own cousin. It was a painful realization that shattered her.
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"I am sure butterflies must be dancing in your stomach, Sarah," both Laiba and Areeba whispered in her ears.
Sarah blushed a little, and her rosy cheeks didn't go unnoticed by anyone. The teasing began, with everyone chiming in, "Haaye." Laughter filled the room as they enjoyed teasing the couple.
"Alright, everyone. Let's go and leave the couple alone," Haania finally said, trying to bring an end to the playful banter.
Kashan felt a wave of relief wash over him, which Hassan noticed with a mischievous grin. "Huh, someone is getting excited for their first night," he teased, playfully patting Kashan's shoulder.
Kashan stammered, "It's not like that, please stop," his cheeks turning an even deeper shade of red. The teasing continued, with everyone joining in, "Awww."
As the laughter subsided, the family began to make their way out of the room.
Just as they were about to leave, Zakir, Sarah's loving brother, pulled Kashan into a warm embrace.
Placing his hands affectionately on Sarah's head, he smiled and said, "I am really happy for both of you" Zainab, Zakir's wife, stood behind him, admiring her husband's love and support for the newlywed couple, and she couldn't help but smile.
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As they stepped into the room, they were greeted by a breathtaking sight. The room was adorned with beautiful flowers, and candles flickered softly, casting a warm glow. A heart made of flowers adorned the center of the bed.
The decoration left them both in awe, sending shivers down their spines. Sarah couldn't help but feel the butterflies dancing in her stomach, while Kashan's nerves grew, unsure of how to face her and react.
With hesitation, they closed the door, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. They knew they needed to talk, to understand everything that had led them to this moment.
Sarah's curiosity and shock were evident, and Kashan mustered up the courage to speak. "Sarah," he softly uttered, his words barely audible. She turned to him, her eyes filled with anticipation.
"Are you okay?" Kashan asked, though deep down, he wanted to know if she was truly happy with this unexpected turn of events.
A moment of silence hung in the air, but Sarah couldn't contain her thoughts any longer. "Am I dreaming or what?" she questioned, her voice filled with wonder and disbelief. Kashan, with a gentle chuckle, reassured her, "No, Sarah, you're not dreaming. You are my wife now."
The weight of his words hit her, and her eyes welled up with tears. The realization that they were now husband and wife overwhelmed her. Kashan, sensing her emotions, stepped closer, his hands reaching her face.
With a tender touch, he wiped away her tears before they could fall. The simple act sent shivers down her spine, igniting a spark between them.
They were standing so close to each other when there was a knock on door which broke their trance. "I hope I didn't disturbed you both" she said and gave Sarah her dress. "I know I would have given you tomorrow but I think it will be too late. So wear them tomorrow" she handed over her and smiled.
Sarah's mind was racing. She couldn't help but wonder why Nazia, who she knew didn't approve of their relationship, would give her such a thoughtful gift. She felt a mix of shock and nervousness, unsure of what to make of the situation.
Kashan, noticing Sarah's bewildered expression, walked over to her and gently touched her arm. "Hey, are you okay?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.
Sarah looked up at him, her curiosity getting the better of her. "How did all of this happen?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity. "I mean, how did we end up getting married?"
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Love's Unforseen Twist
Short StoryTo my surprise, he looked up and our eyes met. Embarrassed, I quickly closed the window, feeling a rush of heat on my cheeks. I hadn't expected him to notice me observing him.