𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆

Chapter 7

The news of Zahra and Hisham's engagement spread quickly.

In the evening, Zahra sat with her mother, Amira in the living room. Her mother was scrolling through her phone, showing Zahra pictures of elaborate weddings from other families in their community.

"Look at how beautiful this wedding was. They had a lovely venue, and the bride's dress—just stunning. I've been thinking about the kind of wedding we should have for you, Zahra. It's important that we represent our family well."

Zahra glanced at the pictures, feeling a slight unease. The weddings her mother admired were grand, lavish affairs, full of opulence and extravagance.

"Mom, I've been thinking about the wedding too. I don't want anything too big or fancy. Just something small with close family and friends.. I want it to be meaningful, not overwhelming.."

"I understand that, Zahra but you know how our community is. People will talk, and there are certain expectations we have to meet. It's not just about us—it's about maintaining our family's reputation. Your father and I have always prided ourselves on keeping good relations with everyone.."

Zahra sighed.

"I know, but I don't want to get lost in other people's expectations. This is my wedding and I want it to reflect who I am, not just what other expect."

Her mother placed her hand on Zahra's knees.

"Zahra, I want you to be happy, but I also want you to understand that in our culture, a wedding isn't just about the couple. It's a community event, a celebration of two families coming together."

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Later that evening, Zahra spoke to Hisham on the phone.

"I just don't want the wedding to be more about impressing people than it is about us. I've always valued simplicity, but I feel like I'm being pulled in a direction that doesn't feel right to me."

"I get what you're saying, Zahra. I've been feeling it too.. my family has also been talking about the kind of wedding they envision—lots of guests, a big celebration. I think it's a cultural thing, you know? But we have to remember that this is our day. We need to find away to honor our families while still staying true to what we want."

"Exactly.. I want our wedding to reflect our values, not just cultural norms. But how do we do that without upsetting everyone??"

"I think the key is communication. We need to be honest with our families about what's important to us. Maybe we can have a simple nikah, like you've always wanted. That way, both sides are respected."

Zahra felt a sense of relief at his suggestion.

"That could work. A simple, meaningful nikah for us and celebration for everyone else."

Over the next few weeks, Zahra and Hisham spoke with their families about their plans.