𝐏𝐞𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐍𝐚𝐳𝐚𝐫 [Completed]

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿-4

For the first time, a genuine smile adorned his face as he worked out. Merely hearing someone's name filled him with an indescribable energy. And why shouldn't it?

Early in the morning, his mother arrived with joyful news—Zartasha's family had accepted the proposal. He fought back the urge to smile foolishly in front of his mother, but as mothers always do, she seemed to know everything about her children, didn't she?

His mood remained blissful until breakfast, when it was abruptly shattered by a phone call. It was an urgent matter from the office, requiring him to travel to Lahore. In the evening, his family was scheduled to visit Zartasha's house to finalize the date for the wedding. Shifa and Sufyan couldn't help but giggle at his crestfallen expression, to which he responded with a stern glare.

As the evening approached, his family arrived at Zartasha's home. Her phupho, intent on ensuring everything was perfect, took charge, while her chachi's dissatisfaction lingered, silently subdued by her husband's warning. As for her uncle, he didn't say much and seemed to lack enthusiasm.

The evening drifted by with light conversation and the finalization of the wedding date. The Nikkah was to take place at the end of week, as per the groom's request, and no one voiced any objections. The Zaidis made it clear that they needed nothing more than Zartasha herself. It was agreed that the Nikkah would be held in the presence of close family members in their home, followed by a grand reception.

Excitement filled the air, and anticipation grew as the couple's journey to marriage took its course. Their hearts entwined, ready to embark on a new chapter filled with love, devotion, and shared dreams.

Two nights before the Nikkah

Zartasha found solace in her room, clutching the only picture she had of her beloved parents. Her phupho, who had been staying with her all week, did her utmost to fill the void left by her parents. Her children would gather in her room at night for their customary get-together, but despite their presence, Zartasha still felt the ache of embarking on a new journey without her parents by her side.

As she wiped away her tears, the sound of the door opening caught her attention. Her aunt gently caressed her cheek and uttered words that tugged at her heart, "Bhai never liked to see tears in his daughter's eyes." Zartasha wrapped her arms around her stomach, overwhelmed by emotions, and allowed herself to weep.

"No more tears after today. May you always be happy," her aunt whispered, wiping away the remnants of her tears from her face.

Later that day, Shifa arrived with her mother, bringing a beautiful Nikkah dress. The sight of the dress left everyone in awe, and even her aunt couldn't help but shed tears. Zartasha stood frozen, taking in all the unexpected events unfolding around her—a sudden alliance with one of the richest and most renowned families, the affectionate gestures of the groom, the upcoming early wedding, and now this breathtaking dress—it was beyond anything she had ever imagined.

The following day was spent in the salon, pampering Zartasha's skin. From a relaxing body massage to a rejuvenating hair treatment, a new hairstyle to enhance her natural beauty, and meticulous face care and waxing, every detail was attended to. Zartasha closed her eyes, surrendering herself to the blissful moments, savoring the anticipation of her transformation.

Her aunt had planned an intimate dholki/mehndi ceremony at home for Zartasha. One corner of the lounge was adorned with twinkling fairy lights, and a bench covered in a pink cloth adorned with colorful cushions served as the seating area. The setup exuded simplicity yet elegance.

Accompanied by the girls, Zartasha entered the room, clad in a resplendent mustard-colored shirt and gharara, accentuated with contrasting maroon embroidery along the neckline and hem. Her hair, elegantly braided, required no embellishment save for a delicate floral accessory. A sheer organza dupatta, adorned with intricate motifs, was gracefully pinned to her head. Her radiant skin glowed with the joy that emanated from within, making her the epitome of a perfect Mayon bride.

The night unfolded with the application of henna on the girls' hands, with special attention given to the bride. Music filled the air, and the room came alive with the joyful sounds of dance, laughter, and indulging in delectable treats. Amidst the celebration, the elder women of the family took turns offering words of wisdom and advice to the blushing bride. As the event drew to a close, Zartasha and her aunt shared a moment of quiet reflection, tears welling in their eyes as they lovingly remembered her departed parents.

In these bittersweet moments, the past merged with the present, and Zartasha felt their loving presence enveloping her, guiding her towards a future filled with love, happiness, and the shared blessings of two families uniting as one.

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