Only You

seventeen

Today was the day.

We were going to finalize the Rishta, and I would have to talk to Dr. Khan as my potential husband. I still hadn't gotten a grasp of what was happening, it was undoubtedly something I wanted which made it so unreal- it was too perfect to come true.

Though I wondered if he actually liked me. I mean what if it was just aunty's idea he decided to follow along with?

I started offering Istikhara prayer the day my mom received the call- to my pleasure my heartfelt content with everything that was going on.

I was currently getting ready for the special lunch gathering, and I wore an embroidered kurta and salwar with minimal makeup.

I was putting in the last pin on my hijab when a knock on my door interrupted my thoughts.

"Yes?"

The door opened revealing my dad. I hadn't talked to my dad thoroughly about Dr. Khan yet.

"Mashallah, you look so smart." He said

I got up from my dresser and walked towards him to hug him, as he caressed my head.

"I am so proud of you," He started.

"I hadn't realized it would be this quick I'd have to see my little girl grow up." He said pulling away.

Abbu looked at me in the eyes- his full of sentiment. I couldn't help but tear up.

"Abba," I whispered.

"Meri Beti, you'll always be the same little girl who sat on the tank of my motorcycle- even when you have your own little girl. I believe in you and I know you'll make an exceptional wife and mother, always believe in Allah and his plans- indeed he knows what is best." He said presenting me the most beautiful smile known to men.

"I love you Abbu," I said hugging him again.

"It's not even close to my Rukhsati, and I already don't want to leave you," I mumbled.

"Well okay! I don't feel left out." Huzaifah said seeing us from the ajar door.

I pulled away from the embrace, holding my dad's side as we both looked towards his direction. I proceeded to do the most traditional form of mocking your sibling- sticking out my tongue.

--

After my emotional encounter with my father had ended, Bhabi and I were in the kitchen preparing the dishes with my mom.

"I'm so excited I feel like Huzaifah's family is coming over to see me for the first time," Bhabi said chuckling as she cut some lime.

I laughed at her behavior- Bhabi had been the opposite of what I expected her to be. She wasn't frustrated or sad all the time, instead, she had become more energetic and giggly which I greatly appreciated.

As I was washing a fry-pan the bell sounded through the premises of the house. I paused for a second because I knew who it was. I quickly dried my hands and went to get the door.

"Asalam Alaikum, Aunty." I smiled opening the door to see Shaheen aunty with Haniah in her arms- though Haniah seemed to be in a very sour mood.

"Walikum Asalam beta," She said coming in.

Huzaifah came to the door as well.

"Asalam Walikum Aunty,"

"Walikum Asalam." She smiled.

Huzaifah headed out the door- to go to the Masjid with Uncle and Dr. Khan.

"Is something the matter with han-"