Silent Ties: Fusion Of Hearts

Chapter 30

Author's POV:

As the ceremony ended with the prayers and dua recitation, Zia's tears began to fall uncontrollably. Her mother, noticing her distress, quickly embraced her, trying to console her. But soon, her mother, too, became emotional, the air heavy with their shared sorrow. The atmosphere, once filled with joy and celebration, grew somber.

Zia cried harder, unable to shake off Ahaan's threatening words. She had tried to act happy for her family, but fear gnawed at her. The thought of things going wrong terrified her. She didn't want to lose Azlan, and the overwhelming stress of the situation was too much to bear. Seeing everyone so happy for her only added to her distress. She didn't want to ruin their happiness because of her past.

Her mother stroked her hair, whispering soothing words, but Zia's sobs grew louder. The guests, sensing the change in mood, exchanged concerned glances, some approaching to offer their support. Zia's friends gathered around like a protective shield, offering comfort.

Zia left the room with her friends after everyone had gone, trying to put on a brave face. Her friends, sensing her distress, made efforts to cheer her up. Tessa, always perceptive, leaned in and whispered, "What's the matter, Zia? Weren't you happy before the haldi?"

Zia forced a smile to mask her inner turmoil. "It's nothing. I just got emotional after the ceremony, you know, wedding jitters. Everyone gets that way after seeing their family that they have to leave."

Tessa wasn't convinced. "I know you very well, Zia. It wasn't an emotional outburst. What happened? Tell me what's bothering you. We will help you if we can."

Zia looked at Tessa and Aarya, her resolve weakening. "I will tell you guys. Let's go to your hotel room first. Let me take permission quickly so I can stay with you there."

Zia went to ask her parents for permission. They reminded her of the ritual that required her to stay in her room. She persuaded them by saying, "Who follows that anyway, Mom? And you know that ritual is just so the bride can rest, that's it. It doesn't mean that she can't leave her room. Anyway, I want to spend some time with my friends, and I know they'll get bored at the apartment. You don't have to worry much. It's just five minutes to this apartment."

Her mother, although hesitant, agreed. Relieved, Zia left with her friends. As soon as they reached the hotel room, Zia's composure broke. She started crying, and her friends immediately surrounded her, offering comfort and support.

Tessa, worried, asked, "What's going on, Zia? Tell us everything."

Zia took a deep breath, wiping her tears. "Ahaan showed up and started accusing me of things. He said some horrible stuff, and now I'm scared he might do something to ruin everything. He threatened to send old messages to Azlan to make it look like I still have feelings for him."

Aarya hugged her tightly. "You need to tell Azlan about this. He needs to know what's going on."

Zia shook her head, distressed. "I'm worried. What if this matter creates an issue between us? What if he misunderstands?"

Tessa gently but firmly said, "If you don't tell him right now, it will create more problems later. So talk to him. He's a nice guy; he will understand."

Zia nodded slowly, considering Tessa's words. "Fine, I will check for one more day, and if Ahaan doesn't attempt anything, I will wait until we get married. I want to tell him face to face, and you know I can't meet him now because of the ceremony."

Her friends nodded in agreement, offering her reassurance and their unwavering support. They spent the rest of the evening trying to lift Zia's spirits.