The Engagement Day
The morning sun filtered through the thin curtains of Aliza's room, waking her gently. She stretched and felt the familiar comfort of being home, surrounded by the scents and sounds she had missed so much. The distant call of birds mixed with the clinking of dishes from the kitchen downstairs. Today was a special day — the day Hamza and his family would officially visit, a step toward formalizing their relationship.
Morning Preparations
Aliza got out of bed and glanced at her phone. There were already several messages from Hamza:
Hamza: Good morning! Today is the day, my love. Can't wait to meet you and your family.
Aliza smiled. His excitement gave her butterflies. She typed back a quick response.
Aliza: Good morning! We are looking forward to having you. See you soon.
Downstairs, the house buzzed with energy. Aaliya was already in the kitchen, helping their mother prepare a feast. The fragrant aroma of Biryani, Korma, and freshly made parathas filled the house. Aaliya, full of energy, ran back and forth, offering her opinions on everything.
"Mom, should we also serve lemonade? It's so hot today," Aaliya asked, poking her head out of the kitchen.
"Yes, good idea. Now stop running around and help me set the table," her mother responded, her tone affectionate but firm.
Aliza entered the kitchen, wearing a soft pink dress.
"You look beautiful, Aapi," Aaliya said with a wide grin.
Aliza smiled warmly. "Thanks, doll. And you — slow down a little. You'll wear yourself out before the guests arrive."
They spent the rest of the morning arranging the sitting room with fresh flowers, setting the table, and making sure everything looked perfect. Every detail mattered today.
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The Arrival of Hamza and His Family
At exactly 4 PM, the sound of cars pulling up outside filled the house with anticipation. Aaliya peeked from behind the curtains.
"They're here! Hamza bhai is here!" she whispered loudly.
Aliza's heart raced as she stood beside her mother at the entrance. Hamza stepped out of the car, wearing a light blue shalwar kameez that complemented his confident yet humble demeanor. His mother, an elegant woman in her 50s, followed closely, smiling warmly.
Hamza greeted Aliza's mother with respect. "Assalam o Alekum, Aunty. It's such an honor to be here."
"Walekum Assalam, Son," Muneerah responded warmly. "We've been eagerly waiting for this day. Please, come in."
Hamza's mother exchanged greetings with Muneerah, and they settled into the sitting room, where tea and snacks were already laid out. Hamza gave Aliza a discreet smile, which made her cheeks flush slightly.
Aaliya, as expected, couldn't contain her excitement and whispered to Aliza, "Aapi, he looks even better in person! And he's so polite. You're lucky!"
Aliza gave her a playful nudge. "Behave yourself!"
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The Meeting and Conversation
The families exchanged pleasantries, and Hamza's mother expressed her delight at the warm hospitality. "Aliza's mother, you've raised a wonderful daughter. Hamza couldn't stop talking about her," she said with a kind smile.
Muneerah glanced at Aliza, who shyly looked down. "Thank you. She's our pride and joy."
As the conversation flowed, Hamza's mother broached the subject they had all gathered for.
"We've come here with a proposal," she said gently. "We believe Hamza and Aliza make a beautiful pair, and we would love to formalize this union soon."
Muneerah smiled warmly. "We share the same feelings. Aliza has told me about Hamza, and we are very happy with this match."
Hamza's mother beamed. "Then let's exchange engagement rings and finalize the wedding dates soon."
Aaliya, sitting beside Aliza, whispered excitedly, "It's happening, Aapi! It's all happening!"
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The Exchange of Rings
After the initial conversation, Muneerah brought out a small tray with two velvet ring boxes — one for Hamza and one for Aliza. The moment felt surreal as Hamza took the ring meant for Aliza and slipped it onto her finger.
"I promise to make you happy for the rest of your life," Hamza whispered to Aliza with sincerity.
Her heart fluttered as she smiled back. "And I promise the same."
Aliza then took the ring meant for Hamza and placed it on his finger. The room erupted in smiles and applause, with Aaliya clapping the loudest.
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Dinner and Celebrations
The evening continued with a lavish dinner, where both families laughed, shared stories, and made plans for the future. Aaliya, of course, couldn't resist teasing Hamza.
"So, Hamza bhai, do you know how to cook? Because my Aapi makes the best Lachha Paratha. You'll have tough competition."
Hamza chuckled. "I'll happily be her taste-tester. No complaints there."
Everyone laughed, and the atmosphere was filled with warmth and joy. It felt like two families becoming one.
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A Private Moment
Later, after dinner, Hamza found a quiet moment with Aliza in the garden. They stood beneath the stars, the night air cool and refreshing.
"I still can't believe this is real," Hamza said softly, holding her hand.
"Me neither," Aliza whispered, her heart full. "But I'm glad it is."
They stood there for a few moments, savoring the peace and happiness of the moment.
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End of the Day
As the night wound down, Hamza and his family took their leave, promising to meet again soon to plan the wedding. Aaliya hugged Hamza before he left.
"Hamza bhai, you better take good care of my Aapi!" she said playfully.
"I promise, Aaliya," Hamza replied warmly.
After they left, Aliza's mother turned to her daughters, her face glowing with happiness. "It was a beautiful day. Everything went perfectly."
Aliza smiled, feeling content. "Yes, Mama. It truly was."
As she lay in bed that night, Aliza reflected on how much her life had changed in just a few weeks. The future felt bright, and for the first time in a long while, she was genuinely excited for what lay ahead.
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End of Chapter