Accepted With Flaws

We shared a smile as we reminisced about the shop where we got our Lehengas. What made it even more special was that we could return them after the wedding, allowing other brides to enjoy their beauty. "SubhanAllah, such a wonderful way to share blessings with others," Mahira remarked.

My choice was a stunning red Lehenga, the intricate embroidery and velvet design adding a regal touch. It featured a drape net and a side shawl, completed with a matching hijab. Mahira, on the other hand, opted for a lavender Lehenga, which looked ethereal with its drape shawl and side net, complemented by a matching hijab.

As we placed the final touches, carefully adjusting our mangtikkas and antique jewelry, Mahira exclaimed, "You look absolutely breathtaking, Aiza."

Smiling back, I couldn't help but express, "And you, Mahira, you look like a bride straight out of a dream, ma sha Allah."

Just then, Yassir bhai entered the room with a heartwarming grin, his gaze filled with pride. "Ma sha Allah, you both look stunning. May Allah bless your journey ahead," he said, his words carrying a fatherly affection.

Abu joined us next, his eyes misty as he embraced us both. "You two are the embodiment of beauty and grace. May your marriage be filled with love and barakah."

Mahira's father, with a warm smile, came in and took a moment to admire us. "Mahira, you're the reflection of your mother's elegance. And Aiza, your mother's strength is truly present in you. May Allah bless your union."

Asma aunty, Mahira's mom, entered, her eyes shining with joy. She hugged us tightly, her voice full of love. "May your journey together be blessed with the tranquility and happiness of a life lived in obedience to Allah."

Amidst these heartfelt blessings and loving embraces, we clicked some pictures, capturing the essence of this precious moment. Our family's support and well-wishes wrapped around us like a warm embrace, adding an extra layer of happiness to this significant day.

As the time for the Walimah ceremony approached, Mahira and I found ourselves seated in Yassir bhai's now beautifully decorated car. The vehicle was adorned with intricate flower garlands that exuded a fragrance of happiness and anticipation.

The journey to the venue was a mix of excitement and serenity. We sat side by side, our hearts pounding with the realization that this was the day we had been making plans for. The world outside the car window seemed to be painted in shades of joy, matching our emotions perfectly.

Upon arriving at the venue, we were met with a sight that felt straight out of a fairytale. Mahira's cousins approached us, each holding a Phoolon ki Chadar—a cloth adorned with delicate flowers. With smiles that mirrored our own happiness, they placed the chadar over our heads,each of them holding its end making a sky of flowers.

Our hands adorned with Kalirein/hanging , the intricate golden hanging ornaments attached to our bangles, we stood side by side, united in our journey. With hearts brimming with gratitude and Bismillah on our lips, we took each step toward the stage where our husbands awaited us.

The stage itself was a vision of elegance, adorned with intricate decorations that resonated with the depth of our emotions. As we approached our husbands, a sense of elation and contentment filled the air.

Zaid, looking dashing in his off-white sherwani with a lavender waistcoat, couldn't seem to take his eyes off Mahira. I nudged her playfully with my elbow, causing her to giggle. "Looks like someone's drooling over you," I teased. Mahira smirked and playfully retorted, "And someone's glaring right back at him."

My gaze shifted to Luth, who looked utterly handsome in a light golden kurta paired with a printed sherwani. Despite the few months that had passed since our nikkah, my heart still raced at the sight of him. Every glance, every gesture was a reminder of the bond we had forged.