ZAID AND MARYAM ~ Their Story

27 : Birthday Night

ZAID KHALID

I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my tie for what felt like the hundredth time. My mind was elsewhere, my thoughts consumed by the impending doom that was my arranged marriage to Kiara.

My family had always been
traditional, and they saw Kiara as the perfect match for me - wealthy, beautiful, and from a good family.

But I knew the truth. Kiara was arrogant, selfish. I had tried to avoid her, to distance myself from her, but my family was insistent. They saw her as a prize, a trophy to be won, and they were determined to make this marriage happen.

Specifically, I don't want that to happen for Kiara or for myself.

As I entered the grand ballroom, I was greeted with a resounding "Happy birthday, Zaid!" The sound of clinking glasses and cheerful chatter filled the air, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and gratitude.

"Zaid, darling, happy birthday!" cooed a famous actress, her diamonds sparkling  in the light. I smiled and thanked her, pretending to be interested in her latest film project.

As I made my way through the crowd, I caught glimpses of Kiara, laughing and chatting with the guests. She was in her element, thriving in the spotlight. It suited her, I thought.

I spotted a famous musician, sipping champagne and surveying the room with an air of detachment. I felt a sliver of envy, wishing I could be as carefree and authentic as he seemed. But I was trapped in this gilded cage, forced to play the role of the dutiful son.

And that's when I saw her.

Breathtakingly beautiful as always.

I was impressed of how she was sble to erase those worries of mine, just by her appearance.

Maryam stood across the room, her stunning purple full-sleeve gown shimmering in the light of the chandeliers. I felt a surge of pride knowing that I had designed the dress myself, and it seemed to have been made specifically for her. The way the fabric hugged her curves, the way the color brought out the richness of emerald in her eyes.

Maryam, you have no idea how you make me feel so..

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

MARYAM SHEIKH

As I entered the grand ballroom, I was struck by its beauty. The high ceilings, adorned with chandeliers.  The walls, painted a rich shade of cream, were lined with tall windows that let in the soft glow of the moon. I felt like I was in a fairy tale!

Zaid's birthday was a big news in the media as the party attracted lot of celebrity showings, from Angelina Jolie to the Amirah herself! I could see Mr Kasim smiling politely as he recieved each guest, offering them a complimentary glass of champagne.

The sound of music, a lilting waltz played by a live orchestra, filled the room, mingling with the hum of conversation and the soft rustle of silk and satin as the guests moved through the crowds.

I played with my fingers because I didn't know what to do else, when I spotted Aleena and immediately went over. She smiled and gasped as she saw me,

"You look absolutely stunning, Maryam," she exclaimed as she gazed at my dress. "That is a beautiful dress. Makes me look quite plain standing next to you," and we both laughed as I deny it.

Amr popped up with a camera out of nowhere and cheered, "Smile, please!"
Aleena and I, both posed for the photo and took a selfie with the three of us. He looked dashing himself, in a black suit and bow. He bowed dramatically to us as he went away, taking photographs.