Fated Love

Chapter 8

The Khan Haveli stood as an immense and majestic structure. As the enormous white and gold gate swung open, Meerab was inundated with a rush of memories from her childhood. She faintly recollected her visits to the haveli, where she, Murtasim, and Mariam had spent countless hours playing in the sprawling garden. This garden seemed to stretch on endlessly, adorned with lush greenery that painted a picturesque scene. The pathways that wound through the garden were paved with carefully selected stones, their soft colors blending harmoniously with the natural beauty that surrounded them. At its heart, a fountain took center stage, embraced by an array of vibrant flowers and meticulously trimmed shrubs. Meerab's reminiscences brought back the image of a tranquil pool nestled amidst the foliage.

Beyond the garden, the haveli's architecture continued to impress. Elaborate balconies adorned with delicate latticework overlooked the courtyard, offering vantage points to take in the serene beauty of the surroundings. The haveli's windows, large and ornate, were like frames for the picturesque scenes outside, inviting the soft breeze and the gentle hum of nature into its chambers.

The haveli's grandeur was unmistakably on display, enhanced by a multitude of lights that adorned its exterior, casting a radiant glow that enlivened the surroundings in honor of the newlyweds. As they crossed the threshold into the haveli, a tableau awaited them: maids stood poised, each holding trays laden with a rich assortment of clothes, money, and delectable sweets. With an air of reverence, they presented these gifts, a symbolic gesture of blessings for Meerab and Murtasim's future together. Maa Begum imparted her heartfelt wishes upon them, invoking Allah's blessings for a blissful and enduring marriage. Her words were accompanied by an instruction to touch the trays, which were destined for charitable donation—both as an act of gratitude and a means of sharing their joy with those in need.

"You should go and rest up. It was a long, tiring journey," Maa Begum advised warmly, acknowledging the weariness that must surely accompany their journey. "Murtasim, escort your wife to your room. I'll send your belongings and someone to help you with settling your things?," she continued, demonstrating her gracious hospitality.

With a glance exchanged between them, Murtasim and Meerab found themselves feeling awkward. "Shall we?" Murtasim inquired with a gentle shy smile, to which Meerab responded with a nod of agreement.

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Murtasim's portion was incredibly spacious and luxurious, spanning two distinct rooms, each with its own purpose and charm,a kitchen and a drawing room.

His room was designed to be both functional and visually pleasing. It was large and inviting, with a color scheme centered around navy blue that gave off a sense of elegance. There was a cozy sitting area with comfortable red leather chairs and a prominent red sofa, making the lounge area a focal point. A sturdy wooden desk and a comfortable chair were placed nearby, creating a seamless blend of a study space and a comfortable lounge, perfect for both work and relaxation. Glass doors led to an outdoor mini garden and two benches offered a serene spot to enjoy the natural beauty.

To the right was a walk-in closet, well-organized for Murtasim's belongings. The room's design extended to the walls, where blue and white hues created a calming atmosphere. Elegant white curtains with a delicate blue pattern allowed gentle sunlight to filter in. Beside the bed, a polished wooden dressing table offered both utility and style. Additional seating included a cozy blue loveseat and a sofa with a footrest for relaxation.

Meerab's discerning gaze couldn't help but be captivated by the gallery adorning the walls. A multitude of paintings, each a distinct creation, graced the expanse. Their diverse forms and vibrant colors brought an artful vivacity to the room, narrating silent stories that only a perceptive eye could interpret.

"Well, I hope you like the room. I know that the abundance of navy blue might feel a tad overwhelming, but we can get it changed later, if you want to," Murtasim gently suggested, his cheeks tinged with a bashful hue. He was careful not to appear too forward.

Meerab's response was shy yet appreciative. "No, it's lovely as it is. After all, it's your room. There's no need to change things on my account," she murmured, her voice carrying a trace of humility.

Murtasim, however, was eager to ensure her comfort. "Well, it's now your room as well. Your comfort matters just as much," he insisted, his sincerity unmistakable. He wished for her to perceive herself not as a mere guest, but as an essential part of this shared space.

Smiling, Meerab responded, her words carrying a hint of reassurance. "Truly, I appreciate it. I genuinely like the ambiance."

"Very well, then," Murtasim agreed with a warm smile. Standing in the room that held their futures, they shared a moment of quiet, their emotions navigating the uncharted waters of swift change.

Amidst the tentative silence, a sudden interruption—Murtasim's ringing phone—jolted them from their thoughts. He offered an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, but I must attend to this call. I'll be back," he explained, his eyes holding a promise of return.

As Murtasim excused himself to answer the ringing phone, Meerab found herself alone in the room, trying to adjust to the space that was now an essential part of her life. In this moment of solitude, she allowed her surroundings to envelop her, each detail imprinting itself on her consciousness.

"This is what my life is now," she mused inwardly, the weight of the reality settling in. The transformation had been thrust upon her, a chapter she hadn't anticipated, and yet she realized that she needed to navigate its pages with grace and acceptance.

Inwardly, she acknowledged the complexity of her emotions. While her dreams might have woven a different narrative, life had chosen its own course for her. The room, with its deep blue hues and the echoes of Murtasim's presence, was a symbol of this new reality—a reality she had to embrace, even if it wasn't the one she had envisioned.

With a deliberate breath, she closed her eyes, seeking solace in the darkness behind her eyelids. The rapid flutter of her thoughts slowed as she endeavored to find a moment of stillness. It was a challenge to quiet the racing pulse of her mind, the swirl of uncertainties and unfamiliarity that had been ushered in so suddenly.

As she inhaled and exhaled, the rhythm of her breathing gradually synchronized with the rhythm of her surroundings. The unfamiliarity began to take on a hint of familiarity, the awkwardness seemed to ebb away with each calming breath.

"Everything feels new and awkward," she conceded in her thoughts, but then she whispered to herself, "But time might heal everything." It was a mantra she clung to, a reminder that while the present might be daunting, it held the promise of a more settled and harmonious future.

A gentle knock resonated through the door, and as Meerab turned her attention toward it, she was met with the presence of a woman in her mid-forties, her bags in tow. With a warm smile, the woman introduced herself, "Salam, Meerab Bibi. My name is Mari, and I've been assigned to assist you." Her demeanor exuded a combination of warmth and professionalism, assuring Meerab of her capabilities.

Mari's offer was straightforward and thoughtful. "Shall I unpack your luggage and arrange everything in the closet for you?" she inquired, extending her willingness to ensure Meerab's comfort in the new space.

Meerab's inclination was to handle things herself, a habit born from self-reliance. Disrupting someone else's routine for her own tasks felt slightly uncomfortable. "Oh, no thank you. I'll take care of it myself," she responded with a soft smile, expressing her gratitude while simultaneously asserting her independence.

However, Mari's insistence was persistent, an embodiment of the hospitality ingrained in the culture. "Nahi, Bibi Ji. It's my duty to serve you. Please allow me to assist," she urged, her words a reflection of genuine intent.

Meerab's response was marked by a mixture of politeness and resolve. "I truly appreciate your offer, but please trust me, this is something I can manage myself. It's very kind of you."

Mari's expression mirrored her hesitance as she spoke, sensing Meerab's preference. "Okay. But if you require anything, I'll be in the kitchen," she conveyed, a subtle plea that offered reassurance.

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Meerab neatly tied her hair into a loose bun and began to unpack her belongings. She started by arranging her toiletries, jewelry, shoes, and wedding dress to one side. As she proceeded to hang her clothes, an awkward feeling crept over her when she considered using Murtasim's closet. The thought of calling Mari for help crossed her mind, but she dismissed it, not wanting to inconvenience anyone. Resolutely, she hung her clothes on hangers, only then realizing the presence of a few suits and dresses that looked way too elegant and fancy for her taste.

Picking up a few garments, she glanced at the closet, trying to figure out where to place her items. Her attention was so absorbed that she didn't notice Murtasim entering the room.

"Oh, you've already unpacked? But why are you doing this alone? Didn't Maa send someone to assist you?" Murtasim inquired, his eyebrows furrowing with concern.

"Actually, she did send Mari, but I'm used to managing things on my own. I didn't want to trouble anyone," Meerab explained.

"Are you sure about that? Won't this be too tiring for you to handle alone?" Murtasim's voice was laced with genuine concern.

"Oh, no, I'm perfectly fine. I can manage," Meerab assured him. Murtasim nodded, making his away to the room as he was stopped by Meerab's voice.

"umm Murtasim, there's something I wanted to ask you," Meerab began tentatively.

"Sure," he replied.

"Um, whose suits are these?" Meerab's expression was one of confusion as she gestured toward the clothing hanging in the closet.

"These are for you, Meerab. Maa got them for you," Murtasim answered with a warm shy smile.

"Are you sure? I mean, I already have so many clothes. I don't think I'll need more," Meerab whispered.

"If you don't like them, I can ask Maa to take them back," Murtasim offered.

"No, it's not that I dislike them. It's just that wearing them feels a bit overwhelming. They look quite expensive," Meerab confessed.

The blush on Meerab's cheeks made Murtasim's heart skip a beat. She was undeniably adorable. Her determination not to inconvenience anyone and her shy avoidance of eye contact while speaking, it all melted his heart and brought a smile to his face.

"Meerab, you don't need to worry about the price. They're a gift from my family to you. Don't hesitate to use them," Murtasim reassured her, settling onto a loveseat. He observed her struggling to organize everything, as she kept on moving back and forth from the closet to the room. The sight made something inside him felt unsettled. Stepping forward hesitantly, he approached her.

"Meerab, let me help you," he softly offered.

"No, Murtasim, it's okay," she attempted to dismiss him, but he remained determined.

"You'll exhaust yourself this way. Please, let me help you," he gently insisted, taking her belongings and carefully arranging them in the closet. He made room for her toiletries on the bathroom shelves and her jewelry and perfume on the dressing table. These seemingly small acts made his heart flutter, solidifying the reality of their marriage.

"Meerab," he called from the walk-in closet, "is there anything left? I think we're done here."

"Just my wedding dress. Could you please put this in the upper shelf? I can't reach," she murmured.

Murtasim smiled, "Of course," as he accepted the box from her. The weight surprised him. "Meerab, what's in this?"

"It's just my wedding dress. Why?" she asked nonchalantly.

"It's like there are bricks in here! How did you manage to wear this?" Murtasim's disbelief and surprise was evident as he carefully placed the box on the shelf.

Meerab grinned, "I have no idea; I just did."

Murtasim joked, "Are you sure you don't possess some secret superhero powers? It felt almost as heavy as a suit of armor. How can someone as small as you carried it's weight?"

His remark made her laugh and surely, it was a sight to behold. Murtasim found himself entranced by the sheer beauty of her laughter. It was as if time slowed down, and he couldn't help but watch her with a sense of wonder. Her laughter created a serene atmosphere, temporarily brushing away any worries or uncertainties, leaving only the simplicity of the present moment and the shared connection between them.

In that instant, as her laughter subsided and the echoes lingered, Murtasim realized that he would treasure this memory—the memory of Meerab's laughter—for a long time to come.

"Thank you, Murtasim. I'm sorry for bothering you, but I truly appreciate your help," Meerab's words carried a heartfelt sincerity, snapping Murtasim out of his reverie.

"You didn't bother me at all, Meerab. No need to apologize. I enjoyed doing this. It felt... nice," Murtasim confessed.

In that moment, they stood in silence, smiles on their faces. Although their relationship was still in its earliest stages, the comfort they found in one another's presence was visible already. This comfort was a testament to the depth of their connection, a reassuring sign that they were not alone on this new journey.