Echoes of Agony

Chapter Seven

Zaytun and AbdulJalal walked into the hall hand in hand, their faces beaming with happiness. She had her arm around his, and her smile was contagious, prompting everyone to join in the clapping and celebration. She looked stunning in her dress, and it was evident that she was the center of attention.

However, amidst the joyous occasion, there were some uncomfortable moments. AbdulJalal noticed his ex-girlfriend, Lubna Jamilu, seated with her son, and memories of their past relationship flooded back. They had been good friends before they started dating, but their relationship ended abruptly when she left the country. He also spotted his ex-best friend, Zubairu, who had shown jealousy and envy toward him in the past. Despite the awkwardness, AbdulJalal maintained a composed demeanor as they reached their seat.

A rich and expensive buffet was laid out for the guests. The menu featured a wide variety of foods from different cultures, with maids rushing around to ensure that each guest was able to get the plate of their choice. The atmosphere was made even more enjoyable by the music, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for everyone to enjoy. The MC then invited the couple to say something about each other, and the love and commitment they shared for each other were palpable.

Zaytun went first.

The atmosphere was electric as everyone gathered to witness the momentous occasion. Nervousness filled the air, but the room erupted with laughter and applause. It was real, all of it. And as she looked at AbdulJalal, she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by his perfection. Memories of their first meeting flooded her mind, but it was the present that mattered.

"I'm so nervous." Everyone laughed and clapped. "So, it's real. All of this is real. You know, AbdulJalal," she looked into her husband's eyes, "I saw that you're perfect. So perfect. I still remember the day we met for the first time three years ago." His eyes dilated with confusion, and Zaytun smiled at that as she continued, "I've been crushing on you ever since." She finally confessed.

Guests and families murmured loudly, some curious to know more, her friends giving her thumbs up for being brave.

"Then, I saw that you were not perfect and I fell in love. Let us build a home, a life, and a family from our bonds and our vows to stick together through all life's challenges." She exhaled so hard, her voice shaking, her tears falling. She said her last vows with difficulty, "I am yours, all of me."

Zaytun's vows were a true spectacle of grandeur and eloquence, with vivid imagery and poetic language that left everyone in awe. The words were carefully crafted and delivered with such passion and conviction that it was hard not to be moved by them. Tears formed in the eyes of some guests, and a sense of admiration and respect filled the room.

On the other hand, AbdulJalal's approach was more spontaneous and unprepared. And if Zaytun had paid attention, she could have noticed the lack of excitement in his words. They were less heartfelt and insincere.

In the tense atmosphere, AbdulJalal stood with a stoic expression, concealing his frustration and annoyance with the current situation. He was aware of Zaytun's feelings for him, but he never expected her to be so deeply in love with him. He was no stranger to people confessing their love for him, women who were often enamored with his charm and good looks.

However, what he felt now was not guilt, but rather, pity for Zaytun. He understood that this marriage held a great deal of significance for her, while for him, it was just another commitment that he might or might not take seriously. He knew himself well enough to acknowledge that he could not be tied down once he was married, and he had no intention of changing himself to fit someone else’s expectations.

Despite his reservations, he was relieved that she accepted him with all his flaws and imperfections. He appreciated her open-mindedness and understanding, even if he could not reciprocate the same level of affection.