"Amina, a devout niqabi Muslim and final-year medical student from India, has always held her faith close. She has come to London to complete her studies, but life takes a turn when she finds herself in an arranged marriage with Zayd, a wealthy Lond...
Graduation day arrived earlier than expected, and Amina was already up, preparing for the momentous occasion. She stood in front of her mirror, adjusting the blue abaya she had chosen for the day, her white niqab carefully in place. Her graduation gown was neatly laid out on the bed, ready for her to wear once she arrived at the ceremony. She couldn't help but smile at the thought of all the years of hard work that had led her to this point.
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Amina had worked tirelessly for six years in medical school, enduring long nights of studying, countless exams, and moments of doubt. But today was the day that all of that hard work would finally pay off. She couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as she thought about the challenges she'd overcome.
After making sure everything was in order, Amina stepped out of her room and called out to her parents, "Mama, Baba, let's go!"
Her parents emerged from their room, both wearing smiles that made it clear how excited they were. It was a special day for them too—Amina's graduation wasn't just her achievement, it was theirs as well. They had supported her every step of the way, and today was the culmination of all their sacrifices.
Her mother wore a beautiful white abaya, her blue headscarf and niqab complementing Amina's attire perfectly. Her father, always the steady presence in the family, wore a blue shirt and white pants, matching his daughter and wife, a visual representation of the unity and love they shared.
Together, they made their way outside. Amina slid into the driver's seat, feeling a little nervous, but mostly excited. Today was about her. She had worked so hard for this day.
"Are you ready, my daughter?" her father asked as he settled into the passenger seat.
"Yes, Baba," Amina replied, her voice filled with determination. "I've been ready for this day for a long time."
Her mother, sitting in the backseat, spoke with a soft smile. "We are so proud of you, Amina. Your father and I have always known that you would do amazing things. This is just the beginning."
Amina smiled at her mother's words, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. She loved her parents more than anything, and everything she had accomplished was to make them proud.
As they drove toward the graduation hall, Amina's thoughts drifted for a moment—her upcoming marriage to Zayd. She hadn't wanted to think about it today, not when everything should be about her hard-earned success, but the thought crept in anyway.
She had agreed to marry Zayd for the sake of her parents. It wasn't something she had ever truly envisioned for herself, but she loved them deeply and wanted to honor their wishes.But Amina couldn't help but wonder if she was truly ready for such a big step. The marriage was just two months away, and the reality of it was starting to sink in.
Was this what she wanted for her future? Or was it just what everyone else expected?
Amina took a deep breath, trying to push those uneasy thoughts aside. Today was for her achievement, for the completion of her medical degree. She couldn't let her uncertainties overshadow what was supposed to be a moment of joy.
