Raha's walk with Amal ended with more questions than answers. Her parents' evasiveness fueled her determination.
That evening, Hassan announced, "Hussein and his parents are coming tomorrow to visit."
Raha's thoughts stirred, memories of Hussein resurfacing. They had been inseparable during summer vacations.
The next day, Raha's nerves fluttered as she heard the doorbell. Hussein's smile, now familiar, greeted her.
"Assalamu alaikum, Raha," Hussein said.
"Wa alaikum salam," Raha replied.
Hussein's parents, Uncle Fahim and Aunt Jamila, exchanged warm greetings with Raha's parents.
As they sipped tea, Uncle Fahim cleared his throat. "We've come to discuss a matter of great importance."
Raha's curiosity piqued.
"Hassan, Amal, we'd like to ask for Raha's hand in marriage for Hussein," Uncle Fahim said.
Raha's eyes widened.
Amal beamed. "We're honored by your proposal."
Hassan nodded. "We'll consider it."
After the guests left, Amal turned to Raha. "He's a great catch, dear. You should accept."
Raha's frustration boiled over. "Mom, I've only been out of the hospital for a month! You've kept me confined in this house. How can I even think of marriage?"
Amal's expression turned persuasive. "Raha, Hussein is kind and successful. He'll take care of you."
Raha's voice rose. "But what about my memories? My past? I don't even know who I am?.
Hassan intervened. "We'll discuss this later, Raha."
"But this is also my life " Raha cried out in agony.
That night, Raha's dreams were filled with fragmented images:
The stranger's smile.
Hussein's concerned expression.
A blurred face, whispering her name.
Raha woke up, her heart racing. She knew she had to uncover the truth.
---