In the Heart of Darkness

Chapter 2: Bound by Fate

The room was adorned with soft golden lights, casting a warm glow on the gathered family and close acquaintances. Zara stood in the center, her hands trembling as she faced Qazi Sahab. The air was thick with tension and uncertainty, the weight of her parents' cold stares pressing down on her.

Qazi Sahab's voice echoed through the room, calm and steady. "Zara Hasan, do you accept Ibrahim Kardar as your husband with a Haq Mehr of 500 million rupees?"

Zara's heart pounded in her chest. 'What the heck 500 million for me?' she thought then she glanced briefly at Ibrahim, his face a mask of stoic determination. Her voice quivered as she replied, "Qabool hai, qabool hai, qabool hai."

A murmur ran through the room. Zara's father glared at her, while her mother looked away, ashamed.

Qazi Sahab turned to Ibrahim, who was sat with his glory and composed, his eyes never leaving Zara's. "Ibrahim Kardar, do you accept Zara Hasan as your wife with the mentioned Haq Mehr?"

Ibrahim took a deep breath, his gaze softening ever so slightly as he looked at Zara. "Qabool hai, qabool hai, qabool hai," he replied, his voice firm and resolute.

With the Nikkah complete, the room erupted in murmurs and half-hearted congratulations. Ibrahim remained distant, his thoughts clearly elsewhere. Zara's mother approached her, a forced smile on her lips as she hugged her tightly.

"I always loved you, Zara. I did this for your good," her mother said, trying to sound sincere.

Zara pulled back, her eyes hardening as she stared at her mother. "No, you did this for yourself. I know you never loved me and never wanted me. So why act now?"

Her mother's face fell, speechless and taken aback by Zara's words. She had never expected her daughter to confront her so directly. Before she could respond, Ibrahim's bodyguard arrived to escort Zara. She was led to a sleek black car where Ibrahim was already seated.

As Zara settled beside him, Ibrahim instructed the driver, "Take us to the mansion."

The ride was silent, with Ibrahim busy making calls. Zara stole glances at him, her mind racing with fear and uncertainty. He was imposing, with a stern and authoritative presence. She couldn't help but imagine the worst scenarios. 'What if he tried to hurt me, or maybe what if he's worse than my father?'

Her thoughts were interrupted when the car stopped in front of a luxurious mansion. Ibrahim noticed her tense posture and called for one of the maids.

"Take her to the guest room and prepare it for her," he ordered.

Hearing that she wouldn't be sharing a room with him, Zara felt a wave of relief. She hurried inside with the maid, who showed her to a beautifully furnished room. Zara sighed in relief, offering a silent prayer for strength.

Later, the maid returned with a set of clothes. "These are for you, miss. Please change."

Zara was surprised by how quickly Ibrahim had arranged everything. The clothes fit her perfectly, adding to her confusion about the man who was now her husband. After changing, she heard a knock on the door.

"Ibrahim Sir requests your presence at the dinner table," the maid informed her.

Nervously, Zara followed the maid downstairs. Ibrahim sat at the head of the table, his commanding presence undeniable. As she approached, she couldn't help but notice his striking features, sharp jaw, perfectly trimmed beard, well- built strong muscles, and particularly his deep green eyes.

He cleared his throat, drawing her attention. "Please, sit and eat," he said, gesturing to the seat opposite him.

They ate in silence, with Zara occasionally glancing at Ibrahim, trying to gauge his mood. Once they finished, Ibrahim looked at her intently.