Qarz-E-Jaan

A Promise but Not Meant for him

The day of Eid had arrived in full splendor, and the air was thick with excitement, festive music, and laughter.

The entire courtyard of the royal palace was bathed in golden hues as the sun began to set, casting a warm glow across the vibrant decorations. And delicate flowers decorated every available surface.

It was a scene of joyous celebration, with family, friends, and guests all coming together to mark the end of the holy month.

In the midst of it all, Ruhani stood, a slight distance from the others, watching as her friends and family reveled in the occasion.

Though her face was painted with the usual festive smile, her eyes were distant, lost in thoughts that pulled her away from the revelry.

She was quiet, too quiet for anyone's liking. Aarohi, who had always been her closest friend, walked up to her with a knowing look.

She noticed the absent gaze, the way Ruhani clutched the edge of her sleeve nervously.

"Ruhu, is everything okay?" Aarohi asked gently, concern filling her voice.

Ruhani snapped out of her thoughts and offered a faint smile.
"I'm fine, Aaru. Just... thinking."

Before Aarohi could press further, Vikram, who was talking to Omar nearby, caught her attention.

He raised his hand and waved, signaling for her to join them. Aarohi smiled softly at Ruhani. "I'll be back."

she said before walking off,

The soft murmurs of conversation filled the air as guests moved about the courtyard, but Ruhani's focus remained on a small group gathered near the fountain.

She noticed Amna and Trisha chatting animatedly as they picked Desserts from Plate

The colors, the richness, the beauty of the designs they all made the event feel like a dream. But Ruhani's heart was not in it. Not today.

It wasn't long before a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.

"You seem distant today," Nasir's voice rang clear behind her. Ruhani turned slowly to face him, her heart fluttering slightly in his presence.

"I'm just a bit tired, Nasir," she replied softly.
"It's been a long few days."

Nasir offered a smile that was both reassuring and knowing. He had always been able to sense when something was troubling her.

"I know you, Ruhu," he said, his tone gentle. "You're worried about something. I can see it in your eyes."

She hesitated before speaking again, her voice low. "It's... nothing. Just feeling overwhelmed, I guess."

Nasir watched her for a long moment, then gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "If you need to talk, I'm here," he said earnestly.

Ruhani nodded, offering a small smile. "I know. Thank you."

Before the moment could stretch too long, the soft, melodic sound of bells chimed in the distance.

The crowd began to turn their attention toward the balcony, where the royal family stood in a grand display of tradition.

Sultan Orhan, surrounded by his family and courtiers, stood poised as the moment of Eid approached. His voice rang out across the courtyard, welcoming everyone to join in the celebration.

As the ceremony concluded, there was a collective sigh of relief and joy Eid had truly arrived, and with it came a time of festivity, food, and dance.

But as the prayer ended, Sultan Orhan raised his hand, signaling for the crowd to quiet down.