It had been a tiring day at college. Reaching the bus stop I checked my phone. Two missed calls from mom. Two missed calls indicated something was up. Something important at that.

The bus arrived and I called up mom as soon I was comfortably seated. No answer. My heartbeat had accelerated. Next option was to ring up dad. Again, No answer. Sigh! This was going to a long day.

I was breathing heavily by the time I reached home. To my relief, mom opened the door looking as fresh as ever.

"Assalamualaikum, mom you scared me"

"Waalaikumassalaam, what did I do?"she asked innocently.

" I saw two missed calls and you didn't answer when I called back".

" Well you see I wanted you to hurry back home and the reason for not answering the call is that I was busy preparing my special cake".

That's when I realised that the house was sparkling inside out. The dining table was laden with all kinds of fruit, mom's special cake and whatnot. Okay, so someone was coming home but why the fuss.

" who's coming, mom?" I inquired.

" well someone is coming to see you".

"what?!!"

"Yes, you heard it right. Someone is coming to see my precious daughter. Don't give me that look young lady. They'll be arriving for dinner".

"No way mom. How many times did I explain myself. Dad also stood by me. Why did you do this again?"

" It's decided. It's high time you got married Aayat. And your dad agrees".

The atmosphere suddenly seemed to be suffocating. It was getting difficult to breathe. I needed to think this through. Without a word I ran to my room.

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" Aayat. Wake up my dear. You will miss Mughrib prayer" Dad was saying.

Upon opening my eyes and seeing dad I realised that I had fallen asleep crying.

" Dad"

"Come on now. Get up. We'll talk after you finish your prayer".

Right! We definitely needed to talk.

" Aayat dear I know you are not ready but youwill never be. You have to believe in Allah and trust His Plan"

" Yes dad I do believe. It's just that.."

" It's fine to be unsure. I know their family. He is a good guy. Just meet them. Take your time. Analyse everything. It's going to be your decision in the end" he was trying to reassure me.

He continued " Besides it's your fault you are this good. It seems his mom saw you a couple of times and grew fond of you. And who would be a better daughter-in-law than my daughter?".

" What? Ya Allah!"

He laughed at my reaction and said "Aayat my dear. We want what's best for you"

" I know dad".

" It's our responsibility to get you married. Your mom is worried day and night. Do you think she wants to send you away? But she has to. I hope you understand."

"Yes dad I completely understand. I don't want to dissapoint you".

" That's my daughter".

Dad has a way of influencing me with his words. His words rang in my ears. It's your fault you are this good. Really now?!

As the minutes passed by anxiety was getting the better of me. I was dressed up and awaiting their arrival. As I was pancing around my annoying little brother kept taunting me. I was a mess. Anyone who saw me would probably think I was the epitome of distress! And to my horror I heard it..

Ting Tong!Ting Tong!

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Please leave comments. Constructive criticism is appreciated. let me know whether you like the characters and the plot.