love by chance

chapter 18

Irfan's soothing words calmed Amrah's trembling body, her tears slowing as he guided her to her bed.

"It's okay, Amrah. You're safe now," Irfan whispered, his voice gentle.

Amrah's eyes locked onto his, gratitude shining through. "Thank you, Irfan."

Irfan smiled softly. "Sleep now. I'll take care of everything."

As Amrah's eyelids drooped, Irfan tucked her in, ensuring she was comfortable. He turned off the lights, plunging the room into soothing darkness.

"Goodnight, Amrah," Irfan whispered, covering her with a blanket.

Amrah's voice barely audible, "Goodnight, Irfan...thank you."

Irfan's heart swelled with compassion. He quietly left her room, closing the door behind him.

In his own room, Irfan's thoughts swirled. Why had he agreed to marry Amrah? Was it solely to protect her honor, or was there more to it?

As he lay in bed, Irfan's mind raced with unanswered questions.

Meanwhile, across the hall, Amrah drifted off to sleep, her dreams filled with Irfan's reassuring smile.

The next morning, the household stirred to life. Amrah emerged from her room, her eyes still red from the previous night's tears. Irfan greeted her with a warm smile.

"Good morning, Amrah. How are you feeling?"

Amrah's voice barely above a whisper, "Better, thanks to you, Irfan."

Irfan's eyes crinkled at the corners. "We'll get through this together."

Downstairs, the family gathered for breakfast. Tension hung in the air, but Irfan's presence seemed to calm the atmosphere.

Aunt Malika broke the silence. "Irfan, have you thought about the wedding arrangements?"

Irfan nodded. "I've spoken to Uncle. We'll have a small ceremony soon."

Noor's eyes widened. "Soon? But Irfan, are you sure?"

Irfan's expression turned resolute. "Yes, Noor. I'm certain."

As the conversation flowed, Amrah's gaze lingered on Irfan, gratitude shining in her eyes.

Irfan's mind drifted back to Nadiya, his thoughts tangled in guilt. How would he explain his sudden engagement to Amrah? He had already proposed to Nadiya, and now...

Aunt Malika's voice snapped him back to reality. "Is that monster going to roam freely after what he's done to Amrah?"

Irfan's expression turned grim. "We'll ensure Marwan faces consequences, Aunt Malika."

Aunt Malika's eyes blazed. "Consequences? He should pay for his actions!"

Noor's voice chimed in. "But what about the wedding, Irfan? How will you manage?"

Irfan's gaze evaded Noor's. "We'll make it work."

Nadiya's presence lingered in his thoughts, her smile haunting him. How would she react to the news? Would she think he was playing games with her heart?

Aunt Malika's voice broke through Irfan's turmoil. "Irfan, take Amrah with you to the shopping mall. Maybe it'll lift her spirits."

Irfan nodded, grateful for the distraction. "Good idea, Aunt Malika."

Amrah's eyes widened. "I'm not sure, Aunt Malika..."

Aunt Malika's expression turned gentle. "Come, child. Fresh air will do you good."