Mending Hearts

|Walima|

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرحمنِ الرَّحيم
Chapter- 7
Walima

Madiha remembered her mother’s words: Allah infuses love into two hearts the moment they say, "Qubool hai." After the pain of her previous marriage, skepticism lingered, yet now she felt a flicker of hope igniting within her.

As the clock struck 4, she awoke, her surroundings coming into focus. Her eyes landed on the side table, and a smile illuminated her face as she expressed silent gratitude to Allah.

There it was—a red box, a thoughtful surprise from Mustafa. Inside rested a stunning silver and golden bracelet adorned with an infinity heart design.

Getting up, she made her way to the washroom, then set out her prayer mat to pray Tahajjud—the time when Allah is closest, choosing those He loves to bow before Him.

Tahajjud is like an arrow that never misses its mark!

After praying, she contemplated waking Mustafa, but he was already awake. Though not a regular Tahajjud participant, the sight of her praying inspired him to join in.

Nothing reassures the heart quite like a man who fears Allah. A truly pious man treats everyone with respect, including his wife. Her ex-husband prayed regularly but rarely entered the masjid or was punctual; it was only during Ramadan that she witnessed his recitation of the Quran.

●

Madiha wasn't fond of dressing up. This was the fourth time since yesterday that she had worn a heavy dress. Initially, she had considered wearing the same outfit for breakfast, but Zulfa gently insisted that she wear something fresh.

“Endure it for a few days; it’s not often we get to doll up,” Zulfa said. Madiha politely nodded in agreement.

Breakfast went smoothly, but she missed her family and felt slightly lonely. It was a feeling that often crept in when she lived far away from her parents and needed time to adjust.

“Are you feeling sick?” Mustafa asked as he entered the room after knocking. He had just come from masjid, after praying asr.

They were getting ready for their Walima. Madiha was instructed to wear the dress and wait for Zulfa, who would give her a makeover. She refuses to visit the parlor as it seems like a waste of money for Madiha.

“Bhabhi,” Zulfa seemed worried. “Are you not happy with this marriage?”

“Of course, I am. But why would you ask?”

“You don't sound cheerful,” Zulfa noted, her eyes searching Madiha's face for reassurance. Just then Zubaida entered and interrupted their conversation.

“It takes time to adjust.” She said, gesturing subtly for Zulfa to hold her tongue. “In sha Allah, when the time comes, she will be comfortable.” 

In truth, Madiha was caught in a whirlwind of emotions. She couldn't decipher her own feelings.

“No, Alhamdulillah but these heavy dresses are not my style,” she replied. Mustafa chuckled lightly.

“Endure it for a few days, and then you’re free to wear whatever you desire,” he said with a wink before moving to his wardrobe.

Her heart skipped a beat, and she blushed slightly at his attention. Mustafa took out his outfit and went to the washroom because he didn't feel comfortable changing in front of her. After changing, he stepped out and walked to the vanity. As he applied his favorite scent, his eyes caught her reflection in the mirror, and that was when he properly noticed her.