Bound by Fate, Freed by Love

Chapter 2 Beuty and Sacrifice

Mira's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of her door creaking open.

"Amara, it's time to get up," Alyssa called out softly, entering the room. Her voice held its usual warmth, but there was something else beneath it—something cautious. She approached the bed, her eyes scanning her younger sister's face. "You know it's already past 7, right? People are starting to ask for the bride."

Amara forced herself to sit up, the heaviness still lingering in her chest. "I know," she muttered, trying to shake the sense of dread. "I just... couldn't sleep."

Alyssa sat down next to her, brushing a strand of hair behind Amara's ear. "I figured as much. But, Amara, you can't hide in here all morning. I know this isn't easy, but..." she paused, looking unsure of how to finish.

Amara could see the concern in Alyssa's eyes. "But what?" she asked, her voice quieter now.

Alyssa sighed, leaning back slightly. "I've been thinking about Samar and why he proposed this whole marriage. You know he never wanted to get married. He was living his life in Ireland, happy and single. He even said he wasn't interested in settling down."

Alyssa shrugged, her brows furrowing slightly. "I don't know. Maybe he's admired your beauty for a while." She smiled faintly, trying to lighten the mood. "I mean, you're hard to miss, Mira."

Before she could say anything, Alyssa quickly stood up. "Anyway, I didn't come here to make things worse! I actually brought someone to cheer you up."

She turned toward the door and motioned for someone to enter.

Amara's eyes widened as her best friend, Bella, stepped into the room, a bright smile on her face. "Surprise!" Bella exclaimed, her arms already outstretched for a hug.

Amara felt her heart lighten just a little. "Bella!" she said, her voice thick with emotion as she hugged her tightly.

Bella pulled back, giving her a reassuring smile. "I heard everything, and trust me, I'm here for you through all of it."

Alyssa smiled at the sight, relieved to see some joy on Amara's face. "I thought bringing Bella here might help. She's been downstairs with me the whole time, waiting for the right moment."

Amara felt a small sense of comfort for the first time that morning.