Out Of Wreckage?

Chapter Eight

My eyes watered at the sight in front of me. Two brothers in arms, I couldn't be anymore thrilled. Rehmaan Chacha and Abba were in a tight embrace.
Both of them had tears in their eyes. It was an emotional yet amazing moment for all of us.

The rift between them was making me guilty.

"Rabia, Congratulations!" Rumana was the first one to notice my presence at the door. She immediately hugged me.

For a second, I had forgotten why was I been congratulated.

My eyes roamed to my surroundings.

The house was full of guests. My distant relatives. The decorations were already done.

What was happening?

"Rumana, let her have some seat. Get her some water. We must not tease the bride." Chachi admonished her.

"Oh right! Our bride is getting engaged tomorrow. I won't trouble her." She said, winking at me and my face drained all the colour.

I'm getting engaged tomorrow.

TOMORROW?

Everyone looked so excited but I wasn't.

I was going to talk to Abba about all this marriage thing tonight but instead I'm the one to receive such news.

"Rabia, Aslam wanted this engagement as soon as possible so he requested me and I couldn't say no, dear." Abba spoke regretfully.

"I hope there's no problem with it. Is it?" He was hesitant.

Tears were threatening to fall but I controlled myself. I can't cry. Not now.
My family, my neighbors were all there in the house.

I wanted to scream and tell him but I can't create a scene here and I definitely couldn't bring shame to my father. Especially now when he looked so happy and his bond with his brother has just improved because of my agreeing to this alliance.

But am I willing to sacrifice my happiness for the sake of my family, my father?

Somewhere I knew I could because I'm a big coward to confess.

I felt a tap on my shoulder, I looked at my uncle who stood with a small smile in front of me.

"How are you, Rabia?" He was the first one to ask about my well-being.

I nodded, tears finally cascading down my cheeks. His hand was on my head.

"Please don't cry." He whispered. He's my favorite person.

"We're sorry, Rabia. Fahad Bhai and Bhabhi couldn't be here. They're on their honeymoon and when chacha called us last night. We couldn't be more ecstatic hence we are here but they have sent their best wishes." Rumana spoke and I bobbed my head in acknowledgement.

"Rumana, take her to her room. She looks too tired." Chacha ordered her daughter and she did as she was told.

Rumana instantly jumped on the bed.

"So tell me Rabia, How is he?"

"Who?" I raised my eyebrows at her.

"Obviously, your future husband." She replied, nudging her elbow.

How am I supposed to know? One meeting and so many doubts.

Her teasing eyes wanted an answer.

I wanted to say strange but instead I muttered, "Quiet."

"Quiet?" She was skeptical.

"Yes. He doesn't talk much." I said and flopped next to her.

She narrowed her eyes. "Okay. Are you hungry?"