When Rivals Collide (Tere Bin AU)

Chapter 15: Decision

The evening air was heavy with tension as Murtasim sat in his study, a frown creasing his brow. Across from him, Waqas, his trusted lawyer and confidant, reviewed a stack of papers with practiced ease. But Murtasim wasn’t in the mood for legal jargon tonight. His thoughts were preoccupied with something far more personal. 

“I’ve sent the proposal,” Murtasim said abruptly, breaking the silence. 

Waqas looked up, his eyebrows lifting in mild surprise. “Through Salma Begum?” 

Murtasim nodded. “Yes, officially. She’s already spoken to Meerab’s parents. Now… I’m wondering what I should do next.” 

Waqas leaned back in his chair, studying Murtasim thoughtfully. “You mean, besides waiting for her decision?” 

“I don’t like waiting,” Murtasim admitted, his tone edged with frustration. “I feel like I should be doing something, but I don’t want to come across as pushy. Meerab is stubborn, and if she feels pressured, she might push back.” 

“You’re right about that,” Waqas agreed, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. “Meerab’s not the type to respond well to force. But she’s also someone who values action and sincerity. That’s where you come in.” 

Murtasim leaned forward, intrigued. “Go on.” 

“Keep visiting the girls’ school in the village for the next few days,” Waqas suggested. “It’s something that means a lot to her. She’s likely to go there while she’s making her decision. If you’re there, it’ll give her a chance to see you in a natural setting, doing something meaningful. It’s not pushy; it’s thoughtful.” 

Murtasim frowned slightly. “And what would I say if we ran into each other?” 

“Simple,” Waqas replied. “Reassure her. Tell her this decision is entirely hers. Make it clear she can say no if she wants to. Let her know you won’t hold it against her.” 

Murtasim’s jaw tightened, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. “And what if she does say no?” 

Waqas shook his head with a confident smile. “Highly unlikely. Meerab values honesty and respect. If you give her the freedom to choose, she’ll see it as a sign of your trust and maturity. She’ll be impressed by your thoughtfulness—and that’s what will make her say yes.” 

Murtasim sat back, processing Waqas’s words. “You’re sure about this?” 

“Absolutely,” Waqas said. “Meerab isn’t someone who can be won over with grand gestures or flowery words. But she will appreciate someone who respects her independence and understands her values. Show her that, and you’ve already won half the battle.” 

Murtasim nodded slowly, a determined look settling on his face. “Alright. I’ll do it. I’ll start going to the school from tomorrow.” 

Waqas smiled, pleased to see Murtasim embracing the plan. “Good. Just remember—be yourself. That’s what Meerab needs to see. And trust me, she’ll make the right choice.” 

As Waqas gathered his papers and prepared to leave, he gave Murtasim a knowing look, a smirk playing on his lips. “Just remember, Murtasim—this isn’t just about respecting her independence. It’s about playing the long game. She won’t even realize how much thought you’ve put into this.”

Murtasim leaned back in his chair, a shadow of a smile crossing his face. “You’re a strategist through and through."

Waqas chuckled, shaking his head, "It's part of the job Malik. Have a good night. "

As Waqas exited the room, Murtasim remained seated, a calculated calm settling over him. He knew winning over Meerab required more than sincerity—it required patience, subtlety, and a firm grasp of her emotions.