𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆

Chapter 1

Zahra adjusted her hijab and entered the courtyard of the local mosque. The scent of freshly baked bread filled the air as volunteers handed out food to those in need.

Zahra had always found peace in community service. At 21, she had grown accustomed to routine centered around her faith, family, and the desire to help others. She carried trays of food and focused on the task at hand.

Unbeknownst to her, this day would mark the beginning of something that would change her life forever.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hisham stood at the far end of the courtyard. He had been a regular at the mosque for years, not just prayers but for any opportunity to contribute to his community. Tall, with broad shoulders and a quiet demeanor. His faith was his anchor and he had always sought to live by the values instilled in him since childhood.

Today, however, something—someone.. caught his attention.

As he handed out bags of supplies, his gaze drifted toward Zahra. She moved with purpose and grace, her focus entirely on helping those around her. There was something about her—perhaps the quiet confidence in her movements or the way her smile as she interacted with the elderly woman beside her.

He watching her more than he intended.

Zahra had yet to notice Hisham. Her mind was on her duties, but the moment she looked up, their eyes met. For a second, the world seemed to pause. Zahra quickly looked away, she blushing. She wasn't used to feeling so flustered by a simple glance, but there was something about him. His presence was... different.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later that afternoon, Zahra walking toward the donation table to help tally up the day's contributions. Suddenly, she shocked that Hisham was already there, discussing logistics with one of the organizers. When their eyes met again, Hisham gave her a polite smile.

"Assalamualaikum," he greeted.

"Walaikumussalam," she replied.

"I've seen you at a few of these events before. You're always very involved. It's admirable.."

Zahra smiled shyly.

"Alhamdulillah, I try to help where I can.."

"It's rare to find people who are so dedicated to the community these days."

"I believe we're all here to support each other, InshaAllah.."

He respect for the woman standing before him. Their conversation was brief, but it left a lasting impression on both of them.