𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆

Chapter 4

In the evening, Zahra was at home preparing for an upcoming charity event when her Mother, Amira knocked gently on her bedroom door.

"Zahra, can I talk to you for a moment?"

"Of course, Mama. What's in your mind?"

"There's something I've been meaning to discuss with you. I've received a proposal for your hand in marriage."

Zahra was shocked like she hadn't expected this conversation, especially not now.

"A proposal?! From whom??"

Her mother hesitated for a moment.

"It's from Hisham. His family reached out through mutual friends and they've expressed interest in getting to know you better, with the intention of marriage."

Hisham? The very man she had been thinking about for weeks? She had felt a connection, yes.. but she hadn't imagined things would progress so quickly.

"Zahra, I know this might come as a shock, but his family is very serious about their intentions. They've heard good things about you, Zahra.. and from what I've seen of Hisham, he seems like a respectful."

She had admired Hisham from afar, but now.. the idea of marriage was suddenly real.

"Mama, this is... a lot to take in. I didn't expect this."

"I know it's a big decision, and I don't want you to feel rushed. But I think you should at least consider meeting with him, to discuss things properly. You don't have to decide anything right away."

"I'll think about it.."

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The following week, the formal meeting between the two families was arranged.

When Hisham and his parents arrived, Zahra greeted them with respect.

Hisham looked at Zahra.

"Zahra, I know this is sudden and I don't want you to feel pressured. But from the moment I met you, I've felt a deep sense of respect and admiration for who you are. I believe we share the same values and I think we could build a strong foundation together, Insha'Allah.."

Zahra's heart swelled at his words. She appreciated how he didn't rush her.

"Hisham, I've thought a lot about this since I heard about the proposal. And I respect you as well. I can see that you're a man of strong faith, and I admire your dedication to your family and community. But I also believe that marriage is a partnership, one that requires time, trust, and understanding. I'm open to getting to know you better, and I want to make sure that we are both making this decision for the right reasons."

"I agree, Zahra.. I don't want to rush. I believe in taking the time to build that trust and understanding, to ensure that we're both prepared for the responsibility that comes with marriage.."

Whatever happened next, she would place her trust in Allah.