"The unexpected turns of life"

Chapter : 9 "Preparations and Teasing: Ayesha's Engagement"

"Mangni ki shamon mein kuch khushbu, kuch ghabrahat thi,

Ankhon mein naye sapne, dil mein halki si saadat thi.

Doston ke chhede, apno ki hasi ki awaaz,

Aaj khile hain phool naye, hai kuch khaas is raat ka ehsaas."

Translation:

"In the twilight of the engagement, there was fragrance and a bit of nervousness,

New dreams in the eyes, a gentle happiness in the heart.

Friends' teasing, the laughter of loved ones,

Today, new flowers have bloomed, with a special feeling in the air."

Enjoy reading
~

Pre-Engagement Preparations and Conversations

As the engagement day approached, Ayesha's house buzzed with excitement. The aroma of traditional dishes filled the air, and the chatter of relatives echoed through the halls. Amidst the preparations, Ayesha took a moment to call her best friends, Meera and Sana, to share her excitement and anxieties about the upcoming event.

"Guys, tum logon ko pata hai, Ahmed kitne ache hain! Woh mujhe bilkul novel ke hero jaise lage," Ayesha exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement. (Guys, you know, Ahmed is so nice! He felt just like a hero from a novel.)

Meera, with a teasing tone, replied, "Acha? Tumhare novels ke hero jaise? Humein to laga tha ki shaadi ke baad tumhe novels chhodni padengi, lekin ab lagta hai tumhe ek library milegi!" (Really? Just like your novel heroes? We thought you'd have to give up novels after marriage, but now it seems you'll get a whole library!)

Sana added, laughing, "Haan, aur Ahmed tumhe shayari sunayenge! Hum sab intezaar kar rahe hain tumhare romantic shayari sessions ka." (Yes, and Ahmed will recite poetry to you! We're all waiting for your romantic poetry sessions.)

Ayesha couldn't help but laugh along, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and happiness. "Woh bohot understanding hain. Shayari ka bhi shauk hai unhein," she admitted, shyly. (He's very understanding. He also likes poetry.)

The friends continued their playful banter, reminiscing about their school days and imagining Ayesha's future with Ahmed. Their conversation was light-hearted and filled with joy, making Ayesha feel even more excited about the engagement.

Introducing Ayesha's Aunts and FamilyWith the engagement day nearing, Ayesha's extended family members began arriving at their home in Bangalore. Her father's sister, Nazia Phupho, who was extremely close to the family, arrived first. Nazia Phupho had always treated Ayesha like her own daughter, showering her with love and affection. She was accompanied by her husband and their daughter, who was also Ayesha's close friend.Following her were Ayesha's other aunts: Fatima Phupho, the youngest aunt who had two daughters, and Shazia Phupho, who had one son and three daughters. Shazia Phupho's youngest daughter, Hira, was Ayesha's best friend and confidante. The two had grown up together, sharing secrets and dreams, making this occasion even more special for them.

As they arrived, the house was filled with warmth and the sounds of joyous reunions. Ayesha felt enveloped in love and support from her extended family. They all gathered in the living room, exchanging stories and catching up. The elder women discussed the engagement preparations, while the younger ones, including Ayesha's cousins, eagerly teased her.

Hira, unable to resist, nudged Ayesha and whispered, "Ab batao na, Ahmed ko dekhkar kaisa laga? Woh tumhari expectations se bhi zyada acche hain na?" (Now tell us, how did you feel when you saw Ahmed? He's even better than your expectations, right?)Ayesha smiled shyly, "Haan, woh kaafi impressive hain. Sab kuch itna achanak ho raha hai, lekin achha lag raha hai." (Yes, he's quite impressive. Everything is happening so suddenly, but it feels good.)