muraat.saeed requested to follow you.
Mashal blinked at her screen once, twice and thrice. The Instagram notification was still there. It didn't magically disappear. Gosh! It wasn't any dream. It was real. Heat raised onto her cheeks as she frantically got up from her bed and walked towards the windows, sleep disappeared far away from her eyes. She held the curtains tightly, hesitating if she should open them. Her gut feeling told that Murat was standing there, on his balcony with a phone in his hands. Maybe even shirtless (astaghfirullah), like he was the other night. She was too shy to open the curtains now. Her heart was pounding hard suddenly.
It was two a.m. at the midnight. She had insomnia and the after pressure of saying her answer to the marriage proposal only meant that there was no sleep tonight. But why was he awake though? Her cheeks turned into the darkest shade of pink as she held her phone in one hand, the other hand clutched the curtains tightly. After a lot of hesitation, she finally opened it and her breath hitched as expected.
He was staring right into her bedroom's direction. There was not much gap between both the houses. And she could clearly see his face from here, blame the LED lights which he has hung up on his balcony. Thankfully (read, unfortunately) he was not shirtless. She held her phone even more tightly, feeling bashful.
Did he actually want to follow her on social media? Her heart couldn't take this. It felt like some cute high school Netflix drama. A wide grin appeared on her face as she turned around and rested her head on the grills of her window before she shakily accepted his request and held her phone close to her chest.
Her breathing became uneven now. She didn't have many followers, hardly a thirty totally. They were all from her family and extended families. And some really close friends. Adding him into her followers' list felt very intimate for some weird reason.
It was intimate because she's a crazy social media addict and had uploaded lots of pictures in there. Right from her childhood to adulthood. 1679 pictures and videos to precise. And giving him access to see all that was very much an intimate moment for her.
It's not every day that your crush sends you follow request on social media. And it's not every day that the said crush also happens to be your fiance.
Yes. Finacé.
The sparkling diamond ring on her finger spoke for itself. It still felt like some dream. Right after she told her response, Hania Saeed visited them personally and gifted her this beautiful ring and they all had a long chat about the nikkah date, which was happening in less than a month.
But the ring was so freaking pretty.
She couldn't stop gushing over it ever since his mother gave it to her.
Murat and she were engaged to be married within a month. She couldn't believe it herself indeed.
But it was happening.
Her marriage with Murat Saeed, her crush.
It was still un-freaking-believable.
She was getting married to the same Murat Saeed, who at their first meeting has slammed his door on her face. He was so rude to her at first, but for some weird reason, she still liked him. Liked him enough to say yes to the wedding proposal. Liked him enough to sign up her whole life with him.
She was getting married to her freaking crush. Who could have expected that? Crushes happen all the time. But how lucky she was to be getting married to the same person. Gosh!
Mashal wanted to jump up and down in excitement. It was surreal. And she was so happy with how things are turning out.
Although, it wasn't a stupid and spontaneous decision. Even if she did have this massive crush on him, she took her own time in saying yes. She was this close to even saying no to this whole thing. Her mind was very confused and sceptical at first and she needed someone to help her decide properly. It was a matter of life after all. Marriage was not a joke. For all she knew, her crush on him can be a mere infatuation. He didn't give her any other reason to like him, other than being handsome.
It was infatuation. Of course, it was.
But from what her family has gathered, he was a workaholic and a really good human being overall. It was enough for them. They left the rest in her hands and it was completely her decision to make. Which made her even more scared and nervous. She was still young and stupid. How can they expect her to make such a big decision?
Malaika, her ever so wise mother has advised her to perform Salat al-Istikharah. It was a brilliant idea actually, which made her wonder, why didn't she think of it before. But Mashal did pray the same night, seeking the guidance of her Almighty in helping her choose if Murat was the one for her.
The next day she woke up with this beautiful sign that she should say yes. And she did.
And almost three weeks after that awkward dinner night, here they are, getting married in less than a month.
It felt like a fantasy. But it was actually happening. She was still processing all of this.
Her heart skipped a beat as she received another notification from Instagram.
murat.saeed liked your post.
It was one of her oldest pictures that she posted back in high school. Which simply meant he has been stalking all her photos. The thought itself did something to her stomach. With a shy smile, she turned to look at his balcony again.
He was still there. Looking handsome as ever, even in his sleeping attire.
Standing under the LED light of his balcony, scrolling through his phone. With an admiring smile on his face. Murat has this really charming aura around him and his smile just makes him look so effortlessly attractive.
Mashal couldn't stop herself from swooning over him. Soon she will have all rights to enjoy his handsomeness. She giggled at herself for her silly thoughts. A buzz from her phone snapped her back into reality.
murat.saeed sent you a message on Instagram.
The notification appeared on top of her phone.
She blinked at it with a nervous yet excited smile. Her hands began to shake slightly as she opened her DM. Murat's profile picture was a photo of himself, and that was a very handsome photo she could tell. His account wasn't private. She decided to follow him after their marriage for a silly reason.
Why are you still awake?
She gazed at it, making herself believe that it's all real. And that she was going to chat with her crush/fiance in the middle of the night. How cool was that? She was smiling cheesily throughout the time. Her insides felt mushy and giddy.
The pot is calling the kettle black ;)
She typed back with a mischievous grin and it showed seen almost immediately. So, he was waiting for her reply. It made her squeal in the darkness of her bedroom. She loved to sleep in the dark with no night lamps.
I can see your shadow from my balcony.
He messaged her in no time. Her eyes went wide as she looked out of her window, he was waving in her direction but not exactly at her.
The windows might be transparent but it was made in such a way that only she can see what's happening on the outside, not the other way around.
Mashal grinned at his directionless wave as he gazed towards her window and then into his phone, probably waiting for her response.
I can't fall asleep easily. So yes I'm awake. What's your excuse?
Her reply was quick and apt. She observed how he shook his head with a small smile on his face for that reply. He has finally stopped waving in the air. That sight was so funny. She regretted not filming it on time.
You.
Came his immediate response.
Heat raised onto her cheeks. She felt shivers down her spine as she read and reread that one single line. It was so simple but the impact it had was something she couldn't explain in words.
You made me sleepless :)
Came his instant message.
She ducked her head, feeling all giddy and timid. Did he just say that?
Me?
What did I do?
Mashal typed quickly and searched his face for his reaction. He was smiling constantly, just like her. She felt glad to know that he was as happy as her to have this unexpected conversation in the middle of the night.
You said yes.
Murat was so fast with his responses and she was getting used to it by now. Her heart skipped several beats as she read that line. It was a simple three words but only they both know what it really meant. And how special it was.
Her saying yes to their marriage has changed a lot of dynamics in their relationships. They'd be married soon for starters. She was happy, nervous yet excited.
I think I did.
She replied with a faint smile. Her eyes went back to gaze at him again. He was typing something and her phone buzzed instantly indicating his message. She observed how impatient he was as he sent her the text. A chuckle escaped her lips.
I thought you'd say no. It took you three weeks to say anything.
Mashal's legs began to ache slightly, as much as she wanted to stay back here and stare at all his reaction, she loved her tiny little legs a little too much to stand that long. With an inward sigh, she walked back to her bed.
I can't see your shadow anymore.
Came his immediate message.
She laughed out loud and closed her mouth sheepishly, not wanting to wake up her whole family. But god, he was something else. It's crazy how much effect he has on her even before they were married.
Yes, I went back to bed.
My legs hurt. I was seeing your reaction all this while :p
It was definitely awkward during that dinner night, but now that they're engaged to be married. Mashal wanted things to be normal between them. He was going to be her husband after all. She wanted to ease that awkwardness. It requires efforts from both sides and she's doing her best.
I know!
He replied instantly.
Gosh! This man. He was super fast.
I actually thought you'd say no. I didn't make a good first impression and I'd have understood if you didn't want to marry me.
She smiled reading that.
Yes, we were strangers back then.
But after marriage, I won't tolerate such behaviour.
I promise to treat you fairly, Mashal.
I was honestly not on my best behaviour when we first met and I apologise for it. I won't repeat it again, you can trust me.
Mashal smiled throughout this exchange. It was so cute and honest. She hoped he was honest. Her cheeks turned crimson as she pictured them both as a married couple. Her fingers typed another quick reply.
Thank you! I appreciate it.
I hope you liked the ring?
She eyed her ring finger with a grin before answering him.
It's very pretty, thank you.
I'm glad you liked it :)
How's your new job?
It's been two and half weeks since she joined this company and her life was not the same anymore. She has learnt how much effort it takes to earn every single penny. But it was tough. And she wasn't even given a proper job as they described in her posting. All she did was make coffees and do the remaining works for her seniors. They mostly treat the juniors like their slaves and no one was willing to question anything. She wasn't even given enough credits. It was actually frustrating. The real world was absurd.
It's okay. Not exactly how I have pictured it to be. But I'm fine. I'm surprised you remembered about this job.
I think I remember everything about you.
She didn't know if he was actually serious but her heart swelled in happiness as he sent that text. It was so sweet.
But if you have any problems regarding this job, do tell me okay. Please don't hesitate. I know how companies, mostly the senior employees treat the juniors. I believe you are a junior graphic designer?
He just gave her another reason to like him today. One that has nothing to do with being handsome. He was so thoughtful and kind. A content smile appeared on her face as she learnt this little fact.
Yes. Junior graphic designer. I thought they'd let me do an actual job but not yet. I don't like this work all that much now. I could include this place in my work experience for future references. I'll work for tops six months or something.
That's interesting. Very smart I must say.
:D
What kind of husband do you want me to be?
That was so sudden and a totally unexpected question. Heat raised on her cheeks. She pulled the blankets on top of her as she laid comfortably on her bed, before replying to him.
One who will respect my opinions and give me my space when I want you to. Understand my feelings and...
And?
Can I be honest with you?
Yes, please... Always be honest with me.
I have always wanted a husband who'd love me passionately.
Growing up in a family where my parents are so madly in love with each other, they still are by the way gave me the biggest example of how happy and so in love a couple can be. And all those romance novels that I read and write have spoiled me very much.
I have pictured myself in one such happy marriage.
I want love. So much love.
Mashal typed her heart out and hit the send button. It took her a lot of courage to express something like this. But she did. And for the first time that night, he didn't respond immediately. She understood her words must have taken him off guard.
I believe nikkah is one of the most beautiful bonds Allah has created. And I know I'll fall in love with you one day. I trust the power of nikkah. I don't know if I can live up to your expectations. I'll try my best :)
She smiled again. At least, he was honest. Love doesn't happen in one day anyway.
What kind of wife do you want me to be?
One that is very loyal. I don't have many expectations, to be honest. Just be loyal to me. That's all I want.
Did someone cheat on you or something?
Mashal bit her lips, regretting that almost instantly. It must have sounded so insensitive.
Sorry. I just got curious.
You can have my word.
I'll be very loyal to you if we get married...
I think we are getting married. There are no ifs.
She blushed hard suddenly whilst hugging her pillows close to her heart. He is so charming without even realising.
Yes.
That's right.
We are getting married.
Can you believe it?
She giggled to herself whilst rolling on the other side of the bed. A yawn escaped her lips. Her eyes felt watery due to sleeplessness.
I'm starting to get the hang of it :)
I think we should sleep now. Both of us have work to do tomorrow.
Yes.
I was going to say the same thing. Goodnight.
Oh and Mashal?
Yes?
You looked so cute back in high school. With those glasses and all.
Her cheeks turned bright, feeling shy. She immediately went back to look at the image he was talking about, the one which he liked. It wasn't her favourite picture, to be honest, but posted it because it was aesthetically pleasing. She wasn't sure if she can sleep properly anymore. Her cheeks hurt from all the smiling she did tonight. She squealed reading his message once again.
Thank you, sweet dreams.
The conversation ended there. But sleep never touched her eyes. She gulped her fourth cup of coffee to keep herself awake and got ready for her work the next day.
"You should apply for leave soon." Malaika said at the dining table that morning, "why are you looking so sleepy today?" She narrowed her eyes at her but Mashal just shrugged it off before gulping her breakfast.
"I'm getting late, bye mama. Allah Hafiz. Where is Meher?" She sets her handbag hurriedly and looked for her sister.
"She's not going to school today. Take care of yourself and drive carefully, message me after you reach the office. Allah hafiz," Malaika kissed her forehead lovingly and gave her a brief hug.
"When did you grow up so fast?" Mashal laughed at her mother's words, "I'm still your baby, don't worry, mama. I'm just moving across the street after marriage. You guys are so lucky."
That was the only thing that kept the Baig family sane. Marrying off their elder daughter was an emotional topic but they were so glad that the groom is none other than their neighbour.
They were indeed very lucky.
***
Days seem to pass quickly and before they all realised, it was already the 5th of August, the night before their marriage. Mashal felt jittery and nervous. The Mehendi on her hands shone darkly, throwing her for endless teasing from her cousin's and friends.
It was said that the darker the colour of the Mehendi, the more your husband would love you. It was all a myth anyway but Mashal liked the fact that hers came out super dark.
She was standing on the hotel's rooftop, enjoying some fresh air, alone. It was her last day as Mashal Arsalaan Baig, from tomorrow she'd not only be someone's daughter but a wife. It was a bittersweet feeling.
She was getting married to her one and only crush! A shy smile curved up her lips as she gazed at the stars, feeling in the moment. Tomorrow was a big day, she was feeling so many emotions at that moment. She was happy, excited but also scared and worried. With marriage comes a lot of responsibilities and she knows it takes great effort to run a happy life.
With her eyes closed, she made an instant heartfelt dua. Asking her Almighty to bless her marriage with all the happiness and prosperity. She had this glow on her face that said how happy she was.
It all felt surreal. Like some beautiful fantasy. But time and again problems comes to knock at your doors in the most unexpected scenarios and in the most unexpected places.
As she opened her eyes, she felt someone else's presence around her. Her heart stopped beating for a second there before she sighed in relief.
"Asad? What are you doing here?" She asked him with confusion.
Asad Farhan Sheikh was her father's college best friend's son. They are family friends actually. He was three years older than her. He's a teacher, just like his mother.
Mashal was good friends with all three of the Sheikh kids. They were triplets actually. And she was particularly close with Faryal Sheikh, who recently got remarried with Ashraf Shah, who happens to be her childhood lover. All of them used to hang out every weekend in their old place. She knew the Sheikh kids since she was a small kid.
She missed those hang out weekends after shifting homes to this new place. A nostalgic smile appeared on her face as she recollected those happy memories.
"Are you happy with this marriage, Mash?" Asad asked in a broken voice. His eyes looked sad and tears welled up in them.
"Of course, I am happy. What happened to you?" Mashal asked with worried eyes. He was acting so weird.
But what he did next made her freeze on her spot. He pulled her arms, bringing her close to him and cupped her face, "why did you never notice my feelings for you, Mashal?"
Her eyes went wide. Was he in his senses?
"Move. Away. What the hell is wrong with you?" She tried to push him away but he held her jaw tightly. His eyes changed dark.
"I love you, Mashal. Please marry me." She gave him a disgusting look, not understanding from was this coming from. She has always treated him and his brother, Asim as her brothers. Brothers only. How did he even think about her like that?
Mashal lost all respect she had for him right at that moment.
"Are you crazy?" Her eyes turned red in anger, she tried to push him away but he was stronger than her.
"I love you, Mashal. I know you love me too, let's elope from here. I'll manage everything." Asad was going crazy and psychotic.
"What is happening here?" Another enraged voice echoed on the terrace.
Mashal breathed hard and pushed Asad away at once. She felt disgusted and furious, looking at her childhood friend stopping so low.
"How dare you?" Murat seethed in anger as he punched her childhood friend mercilessly.
Asad wasn't her friend anymore. But what the hell? How could he behave like that with her?
One that is very loyal. I don't have many expectations, to be honest. Just be loyal to me. That's all I want. Mashal recollected his text from that night all of a sudden. And her heart almost stopped beating for a second as he gave her a look.
A look that showed how he exactly felt.
Like he was deceived or something.
Her eyes went wide at that realization. Did he just misinterpret everything?