SILENT STORM

Born into a family of four, Aarifa Malika has always felt like the invisible thread-present, holding everything together silently, yet unnoticed. With a high-achieving older sister studying medicine and a younger brother given endless chances, Aarifa became the "safe option." Her true dream? To study psychology, understand emotions, and help others heal-the way she wished someone would help her. But to her parents, it was a waste of talent and potential.

Now stuck in a dental course she never wanted, surrounded by people who don't understand her silence, Aarifa feels emotionally distant and spiritually numb. She accepts it on the outside, but inside she's unraveling-questioning her worth, comparing herself, and burying her emotions. Her only peace lies in prayer, especially the quiet evenings spent in the masjid near her campus.

That's where Rayyan El-Hadi first sees her-alone in the women's prayer area, tears streaming down her face as she whispers a desperate dua'a. He doesn't approach. He just notices... and never forgets.

Weeks later, fate brings them together again. Rayyan, psychiatry resident [medical student] volunteering for a mental health project, is surprised to see her-Aarifa, now a dental intern at the same hospital.

Their paths cross in quiet, meaningful ways. Rayyan is respectful and calm. He notices what others miss-the sadness behind Aarifa's smile, the way she lowers her eyes during career talks, the weight she silently carries.

Their story unfolds slowly, shaped by faith, sincerity, and unspoken understanding. As Rayyan's past surfaces and Aarifa begins confronting her own pain, a healing bond grows between them.

But Aarifa must still choose: continue living a life chosen for her or find the strength and courage to follow the one she truly needs