Have you ever thought that your childhood crush would be so intoxicating that never give a chance to like anybody else? This is madness right?
This story is about Aliya and her eternal crush, her best friend Tahmeed.
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"You said you do...
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I remained silent at his words, my thoughts racing.
I wanted to start this new relationship on a fresh note, to clear the misunderstandings between us today. Could he let it all go, forever?
"You don't hate me, right?" I asked him softly.
"No, I don't," he replied.
A weight lifted from my chest, the relief almost overwhelming. But then he spoke again, his tone more urgent this time.
"Look, I really want to proceed with this marriage. I'm leaving the country in two weeks. So please, let me know your final decision as soon as possible."
Is he really that eager about this marriage? I thought to myself. I had assumed he was being forced into this arrangement, but seeing the urgency in his eyes, I couldn't help but hold onto a flicker of hope.
"Okay, I'll let you know soon," I said, my voice steady.
"Alright, let's call it a day then."
"Yes," I agreed.
It all felt so formal, like a business meeting. Despite knowing each other for years, it seemed like we had become strangers.
We left the restaurant together.
"Allah Hafeez then. See you," I told him, offering a polite goodbye.
"Do you want me to drop you?" he asked, glancing at the road.
It was around 3:30 p.m., and there were no vehicles in sight. I had come here by taxi since our driver had gone to the mosque for Juhr prayers, and besides, I hadn't learned to drive yet...I could never find the time.
"Thanks, but I'll manage," I replied, scanning the empty street.
"Okay then. See you," he said, heading toward his bike.
I continued looking for taxis or rickshaws, but none were around. Then, out of nowhere, it started raining.
What the heck! Rain in January? I glanced down at my off-white dress, already beginning to soak through.
I tried to shield myself with my hands and started walking back toward the restaurant. Tahmeed was about to start his bike but got off and called after me.
"Hey, wait!"
I stopped in my tracks, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over me. Before I could say anything, I felt something being draped over me. I turned to see Tahmeed wrapping his shirt around me.
I looked up into his eyes, and for the first time in years, I saw a glimmer of care in those honey-brown orbs. It overwhelmed me....the simple gesture, the concern in his expression.
"Thank you," I whispered, adjusting the shirt around me.
"Let's take shelter here," he said, pointing toward a closed coffee shop with a small awning in front.
