Epilogue
Months passed, and Karishma and I settled into a rhythm working with Reema's company. Our collaboration flourished, and we found ourselves pouring our hearts into our projects. With each graphic novel and piece of fiction we created, our fanbase grew. Feedback from readers poured in, and our work received accolades that exceeded our wildest dreams. Reema’s company thrived alongside us, offering more opportunities as they recognized the impact of our stories.
As our success continued to mount, Reema approached us with new ideas spin-offs, collaborations with other talented writers and artists, and even a chance to showcase our work at major conventions. It felt like we were riding a wave of creativity and excitement, and I couldn't believe how far we had come.
Then came the day when my father sent me another text:
-We’d like to have you both over for dinner this Sunday. Your mother is looking forward to meeting Karishma.
A mix of nerves and excitement surged through me as I shared the message with Karishma. She grinned, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Are you ready for this?" she asked.
I took a deep breath. "As ready as I’ll ever be."
On Sunday, we arrived at my parents' house, a sense of apprehension settling in as we walked up to the door. My father greeted us with a warm smile, and my mother was already bustling in the kitchen, filling the air with the rich aromas of our favorite family recipes.
As we sat down for dinner, my heart raced. My parents exchanged glances, clearly eager to learn more about the person who had brought so much joy into my life. Karishma and I shared stories about our journey, our successes, and the exciting projects we were working on. The conversation flowed naturally, laughter mingling with the sounds of clinking dishes.
As we sat down for dinner, my heart raced. My parents exchanged glances, clearly eager to learn more about the person who had brought so much joy into my life. Just then, my elder sister Shara entered the room. She hesitated for a moment, glancing between me and Karishma, unsure of how to start a conversation.
I could see the guilt in her eyes she had always tried to do what was best for me, but her efforts had often felt controlling. The air was thick with unspoken words as we began to eat, and I sensed that she wanted to say something but was holding back.
Karishma, ever perceptive, caught the tension. After a few minutes of small talk, she turned to Shara with a friendly smile. "So, what do you do, Shara?"
Shara seemed surprised by the question, but it opened the door. "I work in marketing," she replied, her voice steadying. "I’ve been trying to find ways to help my clients stand out in the crowded digital space."
As the conversation continued, I noticed Shara's gaze shifting between Karishma and me. Eventually, she took a deep breath and leaned in. "Haseena, can I talk to you for a moment?"
I nodded, and we stepped into the hallway, away from the table.
As we stepped into the hallway, a moment of hesitation hung between us. Shara looked down, and I could see the conflict in her eyes. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves, and after a moment, Shara began
"I know I haven’t always been the best sister,"as she began, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "I wanted to help you, but I didn’t understand how to do it without trying to control your choices. Seeing you so happy with your passion and with Karishma it made me realize that I was wrong to think I knew what was best for you."
I could feel the weight of her words. "I know you were just trying to look out for me, Shara. But I needed to find my own path."
Shara's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I’m really proud of you, Haseena. You’ve accomplished so much, and it’s clear that Karishma supports you. I want you to know that I’m here for you, no matter what."
I stepped forward, pulling her into a hug. "Thank you, Shara. Your support means the world to me."
We returned to the dining room, where the atmosphere felt lighter. As we shared more stories about our journey, Shara engaged with Karishma, asking questions about our work and how we navigated the challenges of the industry. The laughter flowed naturally, mingling with the sounds of clinking dishes, and I could see the bond between the three of us growing stronger.
I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. My family was learning to accept and support my choices, and I couldn’t have asked for a better beginning to this new chapter of my life.
By the end of the evening, I could see my parents were impressed. My father leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face. "I’m proud of you, Haseena. It’s clear you’re in good hands."
My mother beamed at us, her eyes glistening with pride. "You’ve both accomplished so much. I love hearing about your journey and all the success you’ve found together."
Shara nodded in agreement, her smile wide. "Yeah, it’s amazing to see how happy you are. Karishma seems perfect for you, Haseena."
The warmth of their words wrapped around me like a comforting blanket, filling me with a sense of belonging and support. I glanced at Karishma, who was smiling back at me, and in that moment, I felt truly grateful for the love surrounding us.
A wave of warmth spread through me. This was just the beginning of our journey together, both in our careers and in our relationship, and I couldn’t wait to see where it would lead us.
As Karishma and I exchanged knowing glances, I felt a warmth spread through me. This was just the beginning of our journey together, both in our careers and in our relationship.
<<<End>>>
