The Gift of Faith

He started walking toward her, causing her to instinctively take a few steps back. Before she knew it, she was pressed between the car and her husband, with no way to escape. Her breathing deepened as he gently held her chin, lifting it so that she had no choice but to meet his eyes.

"Aap mujhe avoid kar rahi hain?" His voice was calm, but the question felt more like a statement. Her throat tightened, her voice stuck. She could only shake her head in denial.
(Are you avoiding me?)

"Nahi?" he repeated, slightly raising an eyebrow, as if daring her to lie.
(No?)

"Aisi... aisi koi baat nahi hai," she stammered, quickly ducking her head down as he loosened his grip on her chin.
(It's...It's nothing like that)

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Aisha grew up finding solace in her faith, which shaped her values and dreams of building a loving, faith-filled home. Since high school, she'd harbored a soft spot for Omar, a family friend whose ambition and drive set him on a different path. While Omar respected his parents' beliefs, his focus was on building a successful business, and over time, he distanced himself from religion, feeling isolated even within his close-knit family.

When their families proposed marriage, Omar agreed out of respect, viewing it as a formality rather than a heartfelt commitment. A year into their marriage, Aisha found herself yearning for a connection that Omar, still focused on his ambitions, seemed unable to give. Yet, hints of change began to emerge, offering hope for a journey that might bring them closer, rooted in love and faith.