Saliha's Point of View:
"I love how this looks on me!" Zara exclaimed while turning 360 degrees and assuming a princess-like posture. She is a princess after all. That is correct. Their grandma is a royal from Pakistan. They also have a granddad who is related to the local Pakistani King. Simply put, she is a member of royalty.
I smile a little as I take in her glamour. The fact that Zara is eager brings me joy.
She pointed to the one she was wearing and said, "Now it's your turn, I've decided to take off this." I entered the changing area to try on an abaya that I have seen as soon as we arrived.
I looked great, but Zara gave me a nasty expression. I was afraid to say no. I dared not refuse since doing so may lead to a dispute. a vulgar debate. I decided to let everything go and dance to her melody.
This time, she handed me the dresses to put on and said, "Try wearing this one." After numerous failed efforts, I finally recalled my lawn suit that we had brought from Pakistan. Additionally, it was pink. I listened to what she said because I didn't know what colors looked well on me.
She seemed unconcerned when I pointed out the lawn suit to her. After all, it was she who selected that for me as well. I did not worry what I was wearing as long as it was clean and presentable.
She took two outfits, and we went back home. One was a black abaya, while the other was the blue gown, which she preferred to the first. I tried on the outfit at home, and Aisha, one of the maids' daughters (they had accompanied ma'Amina to work here in Turkey), said I looked fantastic. Zara said that I seemed dated. But it had no impact on me. I was just too disoriented to think about that. As I already stated, I was content with who I was wearing.
Ma'Nosheen texted me in response to my request for her fashion guidance, stating that she preferred the lawn suit. I finally decided to put on that.
The question at hand was when the meeting would take place. I was giddy with delight.
The image was of a composed and attractive man, which was a blessing for me. Not that appearances were critical to me or something, but—I did not imagine that for myself. He had the appearance of being one of those well-groomed, aristocratic lads from affluent houses, whose behavior was exemplary.
On a serious note, I haven't really prioritized appearances. My major focus has been in personalities. And the night after, I was really frightened. I was uneasy as I questioned whether I would be worthy of him. Although it is obvious that this is a planned event, he may have shown interest from the beginning. After all, he had to have received my photo or something. We wouldn't even have attempted this if he hadn't approved. However, it's also likely that he's just giving me an opportunity to prove my worth as a partner while not truly being interested in me.
But...
What if all this gets canceled? What if I'm not good enough...
Then I recalled my father's claims that Aabid had seen me at the airport a year earlier. I failed to notice him at that period. He decided to find out who I was, and that is how we all landed ourselves here. Prepping for our official introduction. The elders had arranged for ma'Hanan, my father's secretary, and Zara to join me. Ma'Nosheen felt it was too soon to come, but I really wanted her to. However, I did not challenge. I also started to think that it could have been early. Dad would have already spoken to her if it were the correct moment for her to join us.
The following morning, Zara and I clashed. This time, I resolved not to strike up a conversation right away. Most of the time, she was to blame, but I usually attempt to disregard that and make amends.
Earlier that day, a vase cracked. And she turned me into the prime suspect. It was revealed to be one of the maids. That may have put a stop to our argument, but it didn't. We argued a lot instead. She was treating me disrespectfully. Ma'Amina was not stopping it from happening either since Zara was clever. I was aiding her victory.
Speaking of circumstances, I was finding it increasingly difficult to tolerate the home as time went on. We appeared to fight more and cause issues even between my dad and ma'Amina as we grew older.
So I hoped that the proposal will work and that I would leave to make my own home. With Aabid... hopefully...
---
My inhalation was challenging, and my eyesight was foggy. I made all effort I could to breathe in air, but I was unable to. It was a terrible circumstance that I was in. My limbs felt as though they couldn't move an inch, yet I couldn't tell who was crushing me. I screamed as I attempted to flee.
I felt a shake at that point, which made my eyes open. My eyes immediately focused on the ceiling.
Still shaking my feet, a voice hissed at me, "Wake up, you idiot." Zara's voice was that one. It was thankfully a nightmare, which I experienced repeatedly following my mother's passing. I was reportedly harassed by my babysitter in the past. I suppose that's where it all started.
She remarked with a sour tone, "Your Dad is calling you."
I nodded and got up from the couch. "Did I cry out?"
"Of course, you did,"
I walked away without saying anything else and gave rise. I smiled as I greeted him to start things off.
"How are you, my child?"
"Dad, I'm OK. I deeply appreciate it." I answered. Unbelievably, even when he is speaking to us, my dad uses very formal tone. His conversational approach is much like that. He asked me questions about joining the Eagle-Eye firm. I enthusiastically replied. He had constantly assured me that I would make a fantastic employee.
"As quickly as possible, be ready for your interview. If all goes according to plan, you might begin working right away after your wedding "I was overjoyed. I gasped my appreciation.
"Have you made a dress choice? Tomorrow at 4 PM is when you're supposed to have dinner."
Tomorrow? I remain silent.
"Do not be anxious. The situation will be OK. God willing,"
"I hope so," I muttered.
For around 20 minutes, he gave me some pointers on how to ace my interview. As it may be the first and only explanation, I made sure I understood all he said because I badly needed the counsel. He seldom has time for in-depth discussions with us.
I waited for Maghrib while painting flowers for hours. After that, I read a few books on policymaking. I felt really blessed that my life was taking such a lovely turn. Ideally, if the plan is accepted.
"Wow, tomorrow is already here. Time passes so quickly, "Zara remarked softly as she took a bite of the flat bread. She smiled maliciously, "If this plan works, we'll finally quit seeing your irregular - shaped face, Sallu. I flashed a timid smile before downing my tea.
"Or perhaps I'll be missed by you?" This, I hoped, was it. Of course, the opposite is the case. She wouldn't with me. I know that myself.
She said, filling her cup with tea, "In your dreams." I kept quiet and carried on eating. I tried not to reveal how horrible I felt. But at least I could count on this strange man to treat me like a good friend. I thus assume that I would be able to live without feeling lonely.