The Unwanted Marriage

Chapter 48

Amina's POV

I sat in front of my vanity, surrounded by a full team fussing over me as they prepared me for the reception. My heart was restless; tonight was going to be a grand affair, with dignitaries and important people from all over the world in attendance. The very thought made my stomach twist. I had never been a social person, and large crowds always left me numb.

The only small comfort was that the party had separate sections for men and women. That, at least, would make things a little easier for me. Still, meeting new people had never been my strength; it always left my heart fluttering with unease. Maybe that's why I had only two friends—two wonderfully chaotic souls who had taken the first step when I never could. If they hadn't, I would have stayed in my quiet little shell forever. And if Layla hadn't been my friend, I might never have met Mom... which meant I would never have married Zayd... and wouldn't be sitting here right now, getting ready as his wife.

The thought gave me a shiver. Why do I keep imagining strange "what ifs"? Why do I create problems in my own head and ruin perfectly happy moments?

"Mam, look up," the makeup artist interrupted gently, pulling me out of my spiral. I tilted my chin up, and she carefully coated my lashes with mascara.

Find someone who smudges your lipstick, not your mascara. I had read that somewhere once. And I smiled faintly, because I had found exactly that person. My heart warmed, and before I knew it, my cheeks flushed pink. The girls around me gave me odd looks, and I quickly composed myself. Why are these silly thoughts popping into my head? Maybe it's just the nerves. I always end up making a fool of myself. Like last night I opened that gift in front of him— Ya Allah, I turned red again at the memory.

Just then, the door creaked open. Bhabhi walked in carrying little Nuh, her smile lighting up the room. Behind her, Simran hovered nervously, half-hiding. My lips curved into a smile as Bhabhi said softly, "Mashallah, Amina. Agar Zayd tumhe aise dekhenge, toh be-hosh hi ho jaayenge." She kissed my forehead gently, making me blush harder.

["If Zayd sees you like this, he'll faint.]

I took Nuh into my arms, his giggles melting away my tension. "Sachi, Bhabhi," Simran piped up, peeking from behind her, "I think you should warn him beforehand."

[True, Bhabhi]

I rolled my eyes, struggling not to smile, while Bhabhi laughed.

"Where's Noor?" I asked.

"She's with your bhai," Bhabhi replied, settling onto the bed. "She found a new friend, so she's busy with him. She said she'll meet you afterwards."

I only smiled in response.

Then her phone rang, and she quickly answered. "Ji, ji... aa rahi hoon." Cutting the call, she stood. "Tumhare bhaiya bula rahe hain."

[Yes, yes... I'm coming.] [Your brother is calling.]

"Okay, go. I'll take care of him," I said, cuddling Nuh, who had now nestled against me.

She nodded and was about to leave with Simran trailing after her when she suddenly turned back. "Simran, tum yahin rukho. Amina ke saath raho."

[Simran, you stay here. Stay with Amina.]

Simran's eyes widened. She gulped nervously. I smirked. "Yes, Simran, please stay with me. I have something important to talk to you about." My voice dripped with sugary mischief.

She forced a nervous smile and nodded. Bhabhi, satisfied, left the room.

Turning to the makeup artists, I said politely, "I think it's done. You all may leave now. My friend will handle the rest, right Simran?"