ZAID AND MARYAM ~ Their Story

30 : REVENGE

MARYAM SHEIKH

I stood there, alone in the night, and let the tears flow. I cried for half an hour, my body shaking with sobs. I cried for the uncertainty that lay ahead, for the fear of making the wrong decision, for the weight of my own desires and ambitions.

Did I want to settle down with Zaid, to spend the rest of my life with him? Or did I want to pursue my dreams, to chase my passions, to make a name for myself in the world?

As I stood there, tears streaming down my face, I realized that I didn't have the answers. I didn't know what the future held, or what my heart truly desired. I felt lost, alone, and scared.

I closed my eyes and whispered a silent prayer,

"Ya Allah, I am lost and confused. I don't know what to do. Please guide me and show me the right path. Help me to make a decision that is pleasing to You and that will bring me closer to You."

I thought about the Quranic verse, "And when My servants ask you about Me, then indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls on Me." (Quran 2:186)

I felt a sense of comfort knowing that Allah was near, that He was listening to my prayers and that He would respond to my invocation. I knew that I had to trust in His plan, to have faith that He would guide me to make the right decision.

I felt a sense of calm wash over me as I prayed, a sense of peace that only comes from submitting to Allah's will. I knew that I couldn't make this decision on my own, that I needed Allah's help and guidance.

After dabbing my eyes and face with a handkerchief, I went back inside. Everyone was holding a small plate with dessert, and I swiftly went over to help myself.

I didn't feel like eating at all. I wanted to just pack my bags and leave this place. I wanted to be far away from him. I know the rest of the days would be even harder to face. To be. As I took a bite out of a chocolate cake, I felt a bit of temporary peace.

But my peace was short-lived. Adam appeared by my side. "Where did you go? I have been searching for you everywhere" he asked, his voice laced with concern and then inquired, "Why are your eyes red?"

I smiled, trying to reassure him that I was fine. But as I looked up at him, I felt a sudden headache coming on. The noise, the lights, and the chaos of the party were all starting to overwhelm me.

Just as I was about to respond to Adam, I noticed Bella and her boyfriend George getting on stage with microphonses. Maybe they wanted to sing a duet or congratulate Zaid.

"Assalamu Alaikum, everyone." she said, her face beaming. "First of all I wish a really happy birthday to my dear brother Mr Zaid Khalid," she air quoted and emphasized on the Mr part. "Whose nickname I would have gladly shared but is threatened not to."

Everyone laughed and looked at Zaid who seemed like he was blushing and covered his face.

"Second of all," Bella continued, her voice trembling with excitement. "I have an announcement to make, and that this is one of the happiest nights of my life as I am engaged!" She put forward her hand and sure enough, on the ring finger, a shining diamond encircled it. "Meet my fiance, George Hastings. And we're very proud of our decision."

The room fell silent, as if everyone had been punched in the gut. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Kiara's eyes were fixed on me, her gaze blazing with anger, like she accused me of all of this.