Love's Gentle Embrace

Emotions of Ruhaan's Past (Part - 1)

Noor and Ruhaan had slowly built a rhythm to their lives, a routine that brought them peace and joy in their shared but secret love. They had their own world, living quietly, away from prying eyes, cherishing every moment they had together. Every morning, they would wake up early, offering their prayers side by side, their connection deepened in those silent moments of faith. After their prayers, they would head out for a walk, breathing in the crisp morning air, enjoying the peaceful stillness before the bustle of the day began.

Their mornings were filled with simple yet meaningful acts. They would prepare breakfast together, laughing over small things, sometimes Ruhaan teasing Noor about her cooking skills, and other times, Noor playfully reprimanding him for not cutting vegetables properly. These moments of tenderness had become their shared haven, a beautiful part of their growing love. Once breakfast was over, they would leave for work, walking hand in hand until they reached a point where they had to part ways. No one could know about their secret marriage; they were bound by their circumstances, their marriage kept hidden from the world for now.

One day, at work, Noor was chatting with her colleagues when Sana, one of her close friends, noticed something unusual. As they were talking, Sana's eyes fell on the delicate ring Noor was wearing. It wasn't just any ring; it gleamed softly in the light, catching Sana's attention.

Sana's curiosity got the better of her. She reached out, gently grabbing Noor's hand, her eyes widening in recognition. "Noor," she started slowly, her fingers tracing the intricate design of the ring. "This ring... where did you get it?" She lifted Noor's hand closer to her eyes, examining the ring with a growing sense of disbelief. "This is a limited-edition piece, one of the most expensive rings in the world. How did you—?"

Noor's heart skipped a beat. Her mind raced for an answer, and she swallowed nervously. She hadn't expected anyone to notice the ring, let alone recognize its significance. Ruhaan had given it to her for their togetherness, a token of his love to show that they are committed. But explaining that to Sana now would only unravel everything. For a moment, her mouth went dry, and she could feel her pulse quickening. Then, in a soft voice, she managed to stammer, "It—it's a gift."

Sana's eyebrows shot up in surprise, her voice rising in disbelief. "A gift? From whom?" Her voice had a sharp edge now, her curiosity fully piqued.

Noor's throat tightened. She could feel Sana's gaze bearing down on her, waiting for an answer. She knew that Sana wouldn't stop until she got a response. After a slight pause, she said, "From a close friend."

But Sana wasn't satisfied. There was something in her eyes that hinted at more than just curiosity—it was suspicion. She lowered her voice, leaning in as if to keep the conversation between them. "Do you know what this ring means, Noor?" she asked, her tone serious now. Noor looked at her blankly, trying to keep her composure. Sana continued, "This isn't just any ring. This is a promise ring, Noor. It symbolizes lifelong love, a commitment between couples."

Noor felt her heart sink. She hadn't thought about the ring's symbolism when Ruhaan had given it to her. To her, it had just been a symbol of their bond, their marriage. But now, under Sana's scrutiny, she felt exposed. The ring on her finger felt heavier than ever before.

Sana narrowed her eyes, her voice almost accusatory. "Are you sure this person is just a friend? Who gifts a promise ring like this?"

Noor could feel the walls closing in around her. She was desperate for an escape, her mind swirling with possible answers, but none of them seemed right. She could only nod nervously, hoping it would be enough to silence the growing suspicions in Sana's mind.