FOREVER WITH YOU

Chapter 38: A Little Closer

Rayyan stepped out of the car, adjusting his tie as he glanced back at Tasleem who followed him, her eyes cast downward. Together, they approached the house, where the servants and maids greeted them with warm smiles. Rayyan nodded slightly, his gaze drifting back to Tasleem, ensuring she was properly covered.

As they entered the living room, the aroma of Mamie's cooking wafted through the air, enticing their senses. Tasleem's curiosity got the better of her, and she followed the scent to the kitchen. Rayyan trailed behind, answering a call.

Inside, Mamie and Amira bustled about, expertly grilling chicken and preparing an array of dishes. The maids moved efficiently, setting the table and finishing the final touches. Tasleem's face lit up as she spotted Mamie, and she rushed over, enveloping her in a tight hug.

"I've missed you so much, Mamie," Tasleem's voice trembled with emotion, and tears streamed down her face as she kissed Mamie's cheek. Mamie smiled warmly, embracing Tasleem. "I've missed you too, Tasleem. So very much."

Amira smiled brightly, teasing, "Thank goodness Mamie's darling is here. I can finally take a breather, now that the apple of her eye has arrived." Tasleem laughed, wiping away her tears, and hugged Amira tightly.

Why did everyone seem happier to see Tasleem than him? Was he invisible? Rayyan wondered.

Rayyan greeted Mamie and Amira greeted him warmly. He nodded briefly and returned to the living room. Soon Amira and Tasleem followed, hand in hand. As they settled in, Rayyan picked up the remote control and turned on the TV.

Amira stood up, walked over to Rayyan, and sat beside him. She gently took his hand and looked up at him with pleading eyes. "Ya Rayyan, you didn't even take a picture with Tasleem at the wedding! Please, let me take one for you together. 

Rayyan frowned. "I don't like taking pictures."

Tasleem pouted, Who wants to take a picture with him anyway?

Amira pleaded, "Please, Ya Rayyan, do it for me." 

Rayyan relented, "I'm only doing this for you, but she needs to change her dress."  He had wanted to refuse, but somehow he agreed, unsure what had possessed him to change his mind.

Amira grinned and said, "Thank you, ya Rayyan." She stood up and turned to Tasleem. "Let's go to my room, and then you can change your dress."

Tasleem stood up from the sofa and, together with Amira, headed upstairs to Amira's room.

"Amira, did I say I want to take a picture? And why should I change my dress?" Tasleem asked.

"Come on Mrs Rayyan, it's just a couple picture."

"Who cares about that?"

"Come on please." Amira pleaded.

After changing into a stunning pink dress Tasleem looked even more breathtakingly beautiful. With Amira by her side, they walked back downstairs to the living room.

Rayyan still lingered there, scrolling through his phone. He lifted his head, and his gaze met Tasleem's. For a moment, he was captivated.

She looks even more beautiful in this dress, his eyes still fixed on Tasleem.

As Rayyan's gaze lingered on Tasleem, Amira cleared her throat, breaking the spell. Rayyan's eyes darted away.

Amira smiled knowingly and said, "Ya Rayyan, she changed her dress."

Rayyan's response was a casual "um," his gaze drifting lazily back to Tasleem before he stood up, his eyes never leaving her face. 

Amira's smile deepened, her eyes sparkling with amusement, when she caught the way Rayyan had looked at Tasleem. The gaze was soft, adoring, and filled with affection. Amira's heart swelled with happiness, seeing that her brother had finally fallen deeply in love with his wife.