𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 ✓

-27-

It's been a week since Siddique came back from the hospital, and I'm relieved to see him looking absolutely fit and fine. His wounds have healed and dried pretty quickly, leaving behind only faint scars that remind me of how much he's been through. He's back to his old routine-getting up for prayers, eating, sleeping, and doing everything just like before. Well, almost everything.

The one thing he hasn't done is go back to work at his shop. And I know the reason why.

It's not that he's insecure about his appearance, but he's afraid of how people might react to his bald head. He's worried about the whispers, the side glances, and, most of all, the mockery from people like Zahir. That guy is a pain. I despise him. I always make it a point to avoid him whenever he comes around, asking for Siddique. Why does he care so much anyway? Maybe he's just missing his favorite pastime-picking on Siddique and making his life difficult.

But he doesn't know one thing: I would do anything, anything, to keep him away from my Siddique. Siddique doesn't deserve to be trolled by someone like him. He's too good for that. Zahir is nothing but a loser, and I won't let him bring Siddique down.

As I finish my thoughts, I turn my attention to getting ready to meet Siddique. My mother and I are going over to his house today. She's made Kheer, his favorite, especially the one with jaggery. I know how much he loves it. It's his comfort food, something that brings a smile to his face even on the dullest days.

I stand in front of my mirror, contemplating my outfit for a moment before deciding on a teal blue salwar kameez with delicate golden embroidery. The fabric is soft against my skin, the color rich and vibrant. I smooth down the fabric, feeling satisfied with my choice. The outfit is simple yet elegant, perfect for a visit to Siddique's house.

I decide to keep my makeup minimal, just a hint of pink lip gloss and a light coat of mascara to make my eyes pop. My small gold jhumkas dangle delicately as I move, catching the light, and I add a few gold bangles to complete the look. My hair, I decide, will stay up in a messy bun-practical and chic at the same time.

As I step back to admire my reflection, I can't help but smile. The teal blue suits me, and the golden embroidery adds just the right touch of elegance. I twirl slightly, watching the fabric sway around me. Satisfied, I grabbed my purse and headed out of my room.

I find my mother in the kitchen, carefully packing the boxes of kheer. She looks adorable in her soft blue salwar kameez, the color complementing her gentle features. I notice with a smile that we're almost matching.

"Mom, you look so cute," I say, leaning against the doorway.

She looks up at me with a warm smile, her eyes twinkling. "And you, my dear, look like a fairy. Siddique won't be able to take his eyes off you."

I blush slightly at her words, but I can't help the smile that spreads across my face. "You think so?"

"I know so," she replies confidently, sealing the last box of Kheer. "He's a lucky boy."