Adventures of Sinbad and Layla

Life in Tison (Part II)

The wedding went off without a hitch. The marriage took place on Sinbad's birthday, which made the day extra special for him. The village was extremely happy upon learning that Sinbad and Layla were finally getting married. Some of the villagers helped with cooking food in large quantities and others helped with extra tasks. Layla's bedroom in her house was also decorated as that was where they would be living.

Well, most of the village were happy. Ahmed, his wife, Sheikh and Pinky weren't happy at all. Still, they showed face at the wedding to show they were happy. They sat amongst the guests as the ceremony went on. Sheikh's eyes were on Layla the entire time. She was wearing an outfit that Esra had worn on her own wedding day and she did look incredibly stunning. But all he kept thinking was that he should have been in Sinbad's position. Even Pinky was upset. She had had a crush on Sinbad since she was very little and she was always envious of Layla for being so close to him. But there was nothing that could be done for the moment.

A local religious man carried out the ceremony and once it was complete, they all celebrated. The villagers danced, sang and ate throughout the night. Later on, Sinbad and Layla made their way to their new home together with the blessings from Badr and Esra.

Sinbad lifted Layla up bridal style and entered the threshold of their new home and life together as husband and wife. He carried her to their bed and placed her down. The room was decorated with flowers and candles, giving it a romantic atmosphere.

"This day went so fast," Sinbad breathed out as he sat to her side.
Layla smiled. "I know. I can't believe how quickly it all happened."
He returned her smile and stroked his fingers across her cheek. "Yeah. But I'm glad because now you're finally my wife."
She blushed softly. "This is the happiest day of my life." She gently cupped his cheek. "I love you so much, Sin."
"I love you too, baby girl."

Her blush deepened as she turned her face away shyly. He smiled as he held her chin and made her look at him again.

"You're the most beautiful woman in the world," he spoke softly. "Don't hide away from me."
"You haven't seen the other girls across the world."
He shook his head. "It doesn't matter. I know it in my heart that there is no one more beautiful than you."

Her heart was fluttering like crazy. Closing the small gap between their lips, they shared their first kiss as husband and wife. And soon, they made love to consummate their marriage.

***

It had been a month since the wedding and married life was great. Sinbad loved returning from work knowing that his wife was waiting for him. He and Badr still went to work together and Layla would spend the day with Esra. But now with them  being married, the awkward conversations began.

"It's so exciting," Esra said. "One day I'll become a dadi." (Paternal grandmother.)
Layla blushed deeply. "One day..." she responded awkwardly. "I don't think we're ready for children yet."
"Oh, I understand, dear," Esra smiled. "There's no rush. You're both still young. Enjoy married life before thinking about children."
"I wouldn't mind having children right now," came Sinbad's voice as he entered the house with Badr.
Layla glared at him. "Why do you always hear our conversations?"
He smiled. "It's not my fault you talk so loud."
"Daaad!" Layla whined.
Badr chuckled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Stop picking on my daughter-in-law, Sin."

Layla stuck her tongue out at him and laughed evily. Sinbad pouted making Esra laugh at their antics.

"It seems you both are still children yourselves," she joked. "Are you sure you're going to be okay while Badr and I are away?"
"Of course we will be," Sinbad said. "You and dad enjoy your getaway. You guys need it."
Layla nodded. "And you're only going for a few days. I'll look after him."
"No, no," Badr said. "It's his duty to take care of you."
"Right, dad," Sinbad nodded with a smile. "I promise to take care of her."
"Good." Badr kissed the top of Layla's head. "She's very precious. Protect her always."
"I will."