Adventures of Sinbad and Layla

Life in Tison (Part I)

(Parallel universe if there was no war, dungeons or magic. Layla's parents were still assassinated and so she was still brought up with Sinbad. Also, Badr has both legs.)

Sinbad and Layla were both 18 years old. Layla only slept in her own house and usually spent the whole day with Sinbad's family. It was the same routine in Tison Village day after day. Early in the morning, Badr and Sinbad would head off to work together as fishermen. Meanwhile, Esra and Layla stayed at home to cook and clean. Sinbad's 19th birthday was approaching and the two ladies were discussing how to celebrate.

"We could make semolina cake," Layla suggested. "It's one of his favourites. Oh! And mahalabia. They're the only sweet dishes he enjoys."
Esra smiled. "They sound perfect."
Layla held her chin. "And I was thinking we could also make shish taouk, some falafel and hummus."
"I think I'll leave those down to you, dear. Sin enjoys your cooking more than he does mine."
"I'm sure he only says that because he's scared of me."
Esra laughed quietly. "Honestly, the two of you are like an old married couple."
Layla blushed as she smiled shyly. "Mom, please. That's so embarrassing."
"What is?" came Sinbad's voice.

He had just returned from work and entered the house. He wore clothes similar to his father and his hair was tied back in a long ponytail. It was usually Layla's job to tie his hair every morning, but she didn't mind.

"Nothing," Layla answered, shooting Esra a glance to keep her quiet.
Esra winked at her. "Where is your father, Sin?"
"He's coming, he just stopped to talk to the neighbour." He went to her and kissed the top of her head as he usually did everyday. "How are you, mom?"
"I'm well, thank you."
He then looked at Layla. "Hey, I got something for you."
Her face lit up. "What is it?"
"You have to find it first."
She rolled her eyes. "It's under my bed, isn't it?"
He grinned. "Mmmmaybe."
She laughed. "I'll race ya."

She quickly darted out of the house before he even had the chance to get ready. But he ran after her as fast as he could, both rushing past Badr as he made his way home.

Esra laughed lightly. "They still act like little kids."
Badr smiled before pressing a kiss to his wife's forehead. "That will probably never change."
"Which neighbour were you talking to?"
"Ahmed and his wife," he told her before sitting down on the mat. "They wish for their son to be married."
Esra sat down in front of him. "And..?"
He sighed. "They're asking for Layla."
Her eyes widened. "But he's eight years older than her. What did you say?"
"I said I would think about it." He breathed out deeply. "Ahmed also has a proposal for Sin as well. His daughter is also 18 and wishes to get married."
"This is so much to take in..."
"We will discuss it over dinner."
She nodded. "Very well."

***

Night had fallen. As usual, the four of them sat in a circle to eat dinner together. Layla just brought the last dish before taking her spot opposite Sinbad. Esra silently motioned to Badr to speak up and he cleared his throat awkwardly.

"Sin, Layla, there is something I must discuss with you both," he began, causing them both to look at him.
"What is it?" Layla asked.
He looked at her and sighed. "A marriage proposal has come for you."

Sinbad suddenly began choking on his food. Esra quickly gave him some water and patted his back until he had calmed down. He looked at Badr in confusion.

"A marriage proposal for Layla?" he repeated. "With who?"
"Ahmed's son."
Layla raised a brow. "As in Sheikh? The guy who's 26?"
Sinbad shook his head. "He's way older than her. And I'm pretty sure he's a pervert."
"Sin!" Esra scolded. "You shouldn't say things like that about people."
He turned to her. "But it's true, mom. I've caught him ogling at Layla loads of times. It's kinda sickening."
"Okay, Sin, calm down," Badr said. "I'm going to say no. I don't feel he's the right match for her. I just thought you both should know."
Layla breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, dad."
He nodded. "However, another proposal has come for Sin."
Layla deadpanned. "What?"
"For Ahmed's daughter," he said. "You know her name. Uh, Pinky? I think..."
Layla rolled her eyes. "Oh, my god. She's been after Sin ever since we were, like, 8 years old."
Sinbad shook his head. "You might as well say no to both of them first thing tomorrow morning."
"Actually, Sin..." Badr looked at him seriously. "I would like for you to think this one through."
"What? But, dad, you know-"
"She's a good girl, she's pretty and I think she would make you an excellent bride."