Accepted With Flaws

As we drew closer to the stage, the Phoolon ki Chadar was gracefully removed by our husbands, their outstretched hands waiting for us. With a rush of emotions, I took Luth's hand in mine and ascended the stage to stand by his side. The presence of family and friends, the atmosphere of love and celebration, all culminated into a feeling of tranquility. I was ready to place my trust in him, to embark on this journey together.

With a genuine smile, I leaned in and whispered, "You look so handsome, Luth, just like my husband." His face lit up at my words, and he playfully patted his shoulders as if to acknowledge his own charm.

Zaid and Luth surprised everyone with a dance routine that was adorably off-sync. Mahira and I couldn't help but laugh, the lighthearted moment adding to the joy of the day. As they led us into twirls, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the love and happiness surrounding us.

After the ceremony, rooms were booked for both couples. As we bid final farewells and exchanged hugs and tears, Luth and I made our way to the resort where we would spend our first night as husband and wife.

Once in our room, Luth helped me out of my lehenga, his fingers deftly working to undo the many pins. Finally changed into a nightgown gifted by Mahira, I felt a mix of emotions, including a slight unease due to its revealing nature. I quickly freshened up, applying some oud and lip gloss before entering the room.

Luth's reaction to my appearance caught me off guard, and his awkwardness only made it more amusing. He moved closer, his hands resting gently on my shoulders, guiding my gaze to meet his. "It's alright, Zawj. It's just me," he reassured, placing a tender kiss on my forehead.

As I sat on the bed, he sat in front of me, his eyes dancing with mirth. "You know, it's okay to stare. After all, you are my wife," he playfully remarked. I chuckled and covered myself with my hands, embarrassed by his attention.

In a moment of vulnerability and affection, I handed him a small black journal—a gift from the depths of my heart. "Here, Luth, this is for you," I said, my voice soft with emotion. "It's my journal, and it's filled with everything about you."

He looked at the journal, curiosity evident in his eyes. "Everything about me?" he repeated, a hint of amusement playing on his lips.

I nodded, my cheeks warming slightly. "Yes, everything. The thoughts, the moments, the feelings... it's all there." I hesitated for a moment before continuing, "But I have to warn you, don't read it when I'm around. I tend to get a little embarrassed when someone reads or comments about things I write."

A genuine smile spread across his face as he held the journal delicately in his hands. "Thank you, Zawj . This means a lot to me." His appreciation resonated in his words, a silent acknowledgment of the depth of our connection.

"Keep it safe," I said, reaching out to brush my fingers against his. "It's a piece of my heart."

"I will," he assured me, his gaze unwavering. "And don't worry, I'll honor your request. I won't read it when you're around."

I felt a sense of trust settle between us, as if this simple exchange had solidified our bond even further. As the moments ticked by, the room filled with a sense of peace, the kind that comes from knowing that you're exactly where you're meant to be.

He moved closer, his hands gently tilting my chin up so that I met his eyes. "I won the challenge, you know," he said with a triumphant grin.

I raised an eyebrow, genuinely confused. "What challenge?"

"To make you fall for me," he confessed, tucking a loose strand of my hair behind my ear.

A smile tugged at my lips as I continued to caress his cheeks. "You did," I admitted softly, my hand finding its way to his cheeks. "I'm sorry it took me a while."

He kissed my palm tenderly, his eyes locking with mine. "The wait was worth it," he said earnestly.

Luth's tender gaze held mine as he spoke, "You know, Zawj , I have flaws, imperfections, and past mistakes. Yet, you've accepted me with all of that."

I extended my hand, our fingers intertwining, while my thumb caressed his skin tenderly. "For the sake of Allah, Luth," I finally voiced the words I had long held within. He fixed his gaze upon my eyes, absorbing the weight of my declaration. Then, he delicately kissed the inside of my palm and murmured, "I love you too, Zawj."
I smiled and continued "And I was 'Accepted with flaws' too," I replied softly, my voice carrying the weight of my feelings. "We both have our scars, Luth, but they don't define us. Our journey isn't about being perfect; it's about growing together, learning from our mistakes, and embracing each other's strengths."

He smiled, a genuine smile that reached his eyes. "You always know what to say, don't you?"

Chuckling softly, I leaned in and rested my head against his shoulder. "Maybe it's because I have a willing listener in you. And I'm just following the path that Allah has paved for us,"I said,meaning every words.

As I looked out at the stars, I spoke my thoughts, "I know Marriage isn't a fairy tale. We'll have our challenges, highs and lows. But my prayer is that no matter what happens, we'll be each other's rock. We'll talk things out, no matter how tough, and promise not to sleep until we find understanding."

Luth's arms around me tightened, his warmth comforting. "I promise, Zawj. I'll be there, no matter what. We'll tackle problems together, hand in hand. We'll be patient, empathetic, and we won't stop until we've figured things out." His words weren't fleeting; they were a genuine commitment to us.  "in sha Allah" I replied closing my eyes.

A playful curiosity crossed his face as he examined my lips. "What did you apply on your lips?" he inquired.

I chuckled and brushed my lips together. "Just a lip gloss."

He grinned mischievously. "I hope it won't stain. Things are about to get messy in here." With a flick of the switch, darkness enveloped us, and the journey into our new life began with a spark of anticipation and love.

_____________The End_____________