BE MY GUEST

CHAPTER TWELVE

I N T I S A R✓

KADUNA, NIGERIA

The morning sun streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of my bedroom, casting a warm glow over the luxurious space. I stretched lazily, feeling the softness of the silk sheets against my skin. Today was the grand opening of Rayan's restaurant, and while I wasn't particularly excited about the event, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn't miss.

Rayan and I had never been close. Our relationship had always been strained, thanks to the constant comparisons and the wedge driven by my mother. Yet, there was a part of me that couldn't deny the curiosity about his latest venture. I also had my reasons for attending—networking, creating content, and, perhaps, showing off a bit.

I got out of bed and walked to the mirror, examining my reflection. Perfect, as always. I reached for my phone and checked my social media notifications, smiling at the flurry of likes and comments on my latest post. My friends had already messaged me, excited about the day ahead.

"Good morning, Intisar," my friend Shahida's voice came through the phone as I answered her call. "Babe, are ready for today?"

"Good morning, Shahida," I replied, my tone dripping with confidence. "Of course. It's going to be an interesting day."

As we chatted, I walked into my spacious bathroom, the marble floors cool under my feet. I began my morning routine, meticulously applying makeup and styling my hair. Everything had to be perfect. I chose a designer dress that accentuated my figure and paired it with the latest accessories. By the time I was done, I looked like I had stepped out of a fashion magazine.

My friends arrived shortly after, their chatter filling the air as we gathered in the living room. Shahida, ever the fashionista, looked stunning in her outfit, while Amina and Zara were equally glamorous. We were a sight to behold, a group of affluent young women ready to take on the day.

"Let’s make an entrance," I said, leading the way as we headed to the car. The conversation during the drive was typical—discussing the latest trends, gossiping about mutual acquaintances, and, of course, planning our content for the day.

"Girls, do you know that Khadija Ysk is working together with Rayan," Amina said.

"You see, didn't I tell you?" Shahida said, directing her question to me.

"Yh, I later saw it, er iska. Wallahi I don't know why, but I never liked that girl, even though I could count the number of times we have met before. And then the fact that Rayan is staying with them irks me!"

"Have you even seen the way the two of them are always together since they started working, always going out together. I can't even seem to believe that she's his ambassador." Zara hissed.

"Allah ba ta Isa ba! Rayan' is mine and only mine." Shahida seethed.

"Don't worry guys, we will know how to handle her if she misbehaves," I said, a smirk plastered on my face.

Arriving at the restaurant, I couldn't help but feel a pang of something—was it jealousy or admiration?—as I saw the beautifully decorated venue. Rayan had done well, despite the odds. The interior was elegant, and the ambiance was perfect. As we walked in, heads turned, and I relished the attention.

I spotted Rayan almost immediately. He was busy, interacting with guests and ensuring everything was running smoothly. When our eyes met, he nodded in acknowledgment. I made my way over to him, my friends trailing behind.

"Long time, no see, Rayan," I said to him, a smile plastered on my face.

"Wa alaikum assalam, Intisar," he replied politely, instead,  though I could sense the underlying tension. "Glad you could make it."

"Of course," I said, looking around appreciatively. "You've done a great job here."

"Thank you," he said, taken aback by the compliment. "I appreciate it."

Our conversation was interrupted by Shahida, who stepped forward, her eyes gleaming with interest. "Rayan, the restaurant looks amazing. I'd love to hear more about how you put all this together."

Rayan looked a bit taken aback by her enthusiasm but managed a polite smile. "Thank you, Shahida. I'd be happy to share more about it later."

As we moved through the restaurant, mingling and enjoying the atmosphere, I couldn't help but notice Khadija. She was there, of course, talking animatedly with some guests, her presence radiating warmth and genuine joy. I felt a surge of irritation. She had always been too perfect, too untouchable.

It wasn't long before Shahida and my other friends picked up on my mood. "What's wrong, Intisar?" Amina asked, following my gaze.

"Nothing," I replied, my voice clipped. "Just the usual."

I tried to focus on the event, but the sight of Khadija and Rayan talking joyfully grated on my nerves. It was clear they had developed a bond, and I couldn't help but feel left out, even though I wouldn't admit it.

Eventually, Shahida, never one to miss a social cue, nudged me. "Why are you just looking at them, come on, let's go talk to them." Shahida said, anger evident in her voice.

Without a second thought, I followed her over to where Rayan and Khadija stood. As we approached, Khadija’s smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of polite curiosity.

"Hello, Khadija," I said, my voice smooth but laced with an edge. "I see you're enjoying yourself."

"Hello, who are you, please?" she asked, trying to figure out who I was .

Before I could respond, Rayan stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Khadija. "Khadija, meet my sister Intisar!"

"Step-sister," I corrected him. I saw how his expression changed, but he masked it with a smile.

"Ohh!" Khadija replied, and that was it. She almost walked away, but came back. Wow.

"Rayan, you must be so proud. This place is incredible." Shahida took over.

"Thank you, Shahida," Rayan said, smiling genuinely. "It’s been a lot of hard work, but it's worth it."

The conversation continued, but I could feel the underlying tension. My friends, ever the spoiled brats, couldn’t resist making snide comments disguised as compliments. "I suppose even someone like you can pull off something this impressive," Amina said with a saccharine smile.

Khadija's eyes flashed with annoyance, but she maintained her composure. "It’s all about teamwork and dedication. Everyone here played a part."

As the evening wore on, the tension between us simmered just below the surface. It was clear that Khadija and Rayan had a connection that I couldn't penetrate, no matter how hard I tried.

By the time we left, I was seething inside. Shahida, always perceptive, put a comforting arm around me. "Don't let it get to you, Intisar. You're better than them."

I nodded, trying to push down the frustration. But as we drove away, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted. Khadija and Rayan were no longer just peripheral figures in my life. They were now at the center of a conflict I hadn't anticipated.

As I lay in bed that night, my mind churned with thoughts and emotions. The day had been a mix of highs and lows, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of impending change. Whether it was for better or worse, only time would tell.

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Love, Mardieeeee ❤️.