An Evening of a New Beginnings

A week after the proposal was fixed, Aliza stood by her window, gazing at the stars. Thoughts swirled in her mind—how drastically life would change after marriage. She felt a mix of excitement, nervousness, and curiosity about the journey ahead with Hamza. The calm night air brought her some peace, but before she could get lost in her thoughts, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Hamza:

Hamza:

"Thinking about us too?"

Aliza smiled, her cheeks slightly flushed. Before she could reply, Aaliya barged into the room, throwing herself onto the bed dramatically.

Aaliya:

"Aapi, I've been thinking… If you're marrying Hamza, what's going to happen to me?"

Aliza laughed softly. "What do you mean? You'll still be here, living your life the way you want. But now, you'll have a brother-in-law to annoy."

Aaliya smirked. "Or maybe I'll team up with him to annoy you."

Aliza raised an eyebrow. "We'll see about that, little sister."

---

The engagement day arrived soon, and the house was bustling with friends, family, and last-minute arrangements. Aliza wore a light pink and gold dress that made her look radiant, while Hamza, in a black traditional sherwani, looked every bit the confident army officer. When their eyes met across the room, there was a spark of warmth and understanding.

The ceremony was simple yet elegant. After the formalities, Hamza placed the engagement ring on Aliza's finger. It was a perfect fit, as if destined to belong there. Aliza's hands trembled slightly, not with fear, but with the weight of this beautiful new beginning.

Aaliya couldn't resist teasing her. "Aapi, you're glowing! Is it the ring, or is it the Major?"

Hamza chuckled while Aliza blushed deeply, giving Aaliya a playful glare. "Aaliya, if you keep this up, I'll make sure you get engaged next."

Aaliya feigned horror. "No way! I still have years to enjoy my freedom."

---

That evening, as the guests left one by one, Mrs. Muneerah took a moment to speak privately with Aliza.

Mom:

"My child, seeing you happy gives me peace. But remember, life after marriage comes with its own challenges. You've always been strong, and I know you'll handle everything with grace."

Aliza hugged her mother warmly. "I know, Mama. And I'll always have you to guide me."

---

After everyone had left, and the house was finally quiet, Aliza lay in bed, reliving the day in her mind. She stared at the engagement ring, feeling a strange sense of contentment. For the first time in a long while, everything seemed to be falling into place.

As she drifted off to sleep, a notification buzzed on her phone. It was Hamza:

Hamza:

"Today was just the beginning. Can't wait for our journey ahead, Aliza."

Aliza smiled, knowing in her heart that life with Hamza would be an adventure—filled with ups, downs, and countless beautiful moments to cherish forever.

---

Aliza's vacation ended, and with a mix of excitement and nervousness, she joined her new job at SUPARCO. The transition from leisure to professional life came with its challenges, but Aliza was determined to make her mark. Each day brought new responsibilities, yet her thoughts often drifted toward Hamza, who had been a constant support throughout her journey.

A year passed, and both families gathered for a heartfelt reunion. Conversations flowed naturally, laughter filled the air, and with everyone in high spirits, the long-awaited moment arrived—the wedding dates were set for the upcoming winter season. The cold months promised warmth in the form of new beginnings for Hamza and Aliza.

The finalization of the wedding arrangements marked the beginning of another chapter in their lives. Aliza felt a mixture of joy and anticipation. As winter drew closer, so did the countdown to the day she would embark on this new journey with Hamza.

---

---

It was a crisp Saturday afternoon when Aliza arrived home for the weekend. The familiar scent of her mother's cooking filled the air, evoking memories of simpler times. As she placed her bag by the couch and stretched, her mother appeared in the doorway, wiping her hands on her apron.

"You're home, beta! Finally!" her mother exclaimed, a warm smile spreading across her face. "I've been waiting to talk to you."

Aliza returned the smile, grateful to be back in the comfort of home. "It feels good to be here, Ammi." She sat down, feeling the tension melt away—until her mother brought up the topic.

"Listen, about the wedding..." her mother began, sitting beside her on the couch. "The families have agreed to winter, but we need to finalize the exact dates. It's already October. I was thinking we could sit down today and sort this out."

Aliza's heart sank, her mind scrambling for an excuse. "Ammi, not today... I'm so tired from work. Maybe next weekend?"

Her mother gave her a knowing look. "Aliza, you've been avoiding this for a while. Is something wrong? You and Hamza still seem happy together."

"No, no! Everything's fine," Aliza replied too quickly, forcing a smile. "It's just... work has been so hectic lately. I want to make sure I'm fully present when we plan this, not distracted by deadlines."

Her mother's face softened, but the worry lingered in her eyes. "Beta, there will always be work. But these moments won't come again. Just think about it, okay? We need to move things forward soon."

Aliza nodded half-heartedly, guilt tugging at her. She knew her mother was right. Yet, a quiet unease nestled deep within her, making her reluctant to commit—something she couldn't quite name or confront.

She forced a change of topic, asking her mother about dinner. But even as they chatted and laughed through the evening, the unspoken matter hung in the background, waiting for the next opportunity to surface.

---

The next morning, as Aliza sat at the dining table sipping tea, her mother approached again, her expression gentle but determined.

"Aliza, beta, we can't keep delaying this. Winter will come and go before we know it. Hamza's family is waiting for us to finalize the date."

Aliza took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "Ammi, I understand... but I need more time. I have an important project coming up. We're launching a new satellite, and my assignment is critical. I'll need at least six more months to complete everything smoothly."

Her mother frowned, folding her arms. "Six months? That's too long, Aliza. How much longer will this work take priority over your personal life? Hamza and his family are being patient, but they won't wait forever."

"I know, Ammi," Aliza said, trying to sound reassuring. "It's not about choosing work over family. I just want to ensure I'm not rushing into anything while juggling responsibilities. I want to start my married life when I can give it my best, not half of me distracted by deadlines."

Her mother sighed, her face clouded with concern. "You keep saying that, but life doesn't wait for everything to be perfect, beta."

Before Aliza could respond, a cheerful voice interrupted. "Aapi!"

Aaliya burst into the room, her arms wide open, and threw them around Aliza in a tight embrace. "You're finally home! I missed you!" she exclaimed, her joy palpable.

Aliza laughed, wrapping her arms around her younger sister. "I missed you too, Aalu!"

Aaliya grinned, her presence immediately lightening the mood. "What are you two talking about? Something serious?"

Aliza and her mother exchanged a glance, the tension easing slightly. "Just... wedding plans," Aliza said with a forced smile.

Aaliya pouted playfully. "Oh no, not the boring stuff!" She plopped down beside Aliza, resting her head on her shoulder. "Don't stress, Aapi. I know you'll figure it out. But for now, let's enjoy the weekend, okay?"

Aliza smiled softly, grateful for Aaliya's timing. "Okay, Aalu. Let's do that."

Her mother, though still unconvinced, let the conversation drop for the moment, watching her daughters with a mix of affection and worry.

---

---

At lunchtime, the family gathered around the dining table. Plates clinked as Aliza helped serve, and the aroma of freshly cooked biryani filled the room. The conversation drifted back to the same topic that had lingered all morning.

"Aliza," her mother began as she poured herself a glass of water, "we need to finalize the wedding dates soon. Winter is almost here, and we still have to arrange the invitation cards. We also need to decide which relatives to invite."

Aliza nodded while nibbling on a spoonful of rice. "I agree, Ammi. We should keep it manageable. Maybe just close family and a few friends?"

Her mother shook her head. "It's not that simple, beta. We have obligations, especially to invite the extended family. You know how these things go."

Before Aliza could respond, Aaliya leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "By the way, I already told my friends about the wedding! So, I'll need seven invitation cards just for them."

Aliza raised her brows with a playful smile. "Seven? That's quite a guest list, Aalu!"

Aaliya grinned. "Obviously! It'll be the party of the year!"

Their mother chuckled. "Fine, fine. You'll get your cards."

The conversation returned to the topic of relatives, with Aliza and her mother going over names.

"Should we invite Aunt Nuzhat? You know how distant she's been lately," Aliza asked thoughtfully.

Her mother gave a small sigh. "We have to, beta. If we don't, it'll cause unnecessary drama."

"Alright. What about Khala Sameera and her family?"

"Oh, absolutely. She's family through and through."

Just as they were finalizing another name, Aaliya spoke up again, this time with a hopeful glint in her eye. "Can I handle all the house decorations? I've already got some amazing ideas!"

Aliza and her mother exchanged amused glances.

"Sweetheart," her mother began gently, "that's a bit too much responsibility. We need professionals to manage everything properly."

"Yeah, Aalu," Aliza added with a grin. "This isn't a birthday party where we can just hang balloons and streamers."

Aaliya crossed her arms, pouting dramatically. "Come on! I can make it look better than any professional."

Both Aliza and her mother shook their heads, their expressions kind but firm.

"Maybe you can help in other ways," Aliza suggested. "How about helping with the welcome arrangements?"

Aaliya sighed, defeated but still smiling. "Okay, fine. But you'll see—you missed out on something awesome!"

The three of them laughed, and for a moment, the worries about wedding logistics felt lighter, wrapped in the warmth of family chatter.

---

---

Sunday Evening

The sun was setting, painting the sky with soft oranges and pinks, as Aliza zipped up her bags. Her room, now a mix of organized clutter, had clothes and notebooks sprawled across the bed. She neatly tucked the last item—a small notebook—into her bag and gave it a satisfied pat.

From the doorway, her mother's voice called, "Aliza, beta, are you ready? It's time to leave for the airport."

"Coming, Ammi!" Aliza replied, slinging the bag over her shoulder.

Downstairs, Aaliya was waiting, bouncing on her toes with excitement. "I'm coming with you to the airport!" she announced proudly.

Their mother smiled, pulling a shawl over her shoulders. "Of course, you are. Let's go now before we get stuck in traffic."

The drive to the airport was calm, the streets quieter than usual for a Sunday evening. A soft song played on the car radio as Aliza sat in the backseat, scrolling through her phone.

Aaliya twisted around from the front seat to look at her sister. "You'll call when you land, right?"

Aliza smiled. "Of course. I always do."

When they arrived at the airport, Aliza hugged both her mother and Aaliya tightly. "Take care, both of you. And don't worry too much about the wedding stuff, okay?"

"We'll handle it," her mother assured her with a warm smile.

Aaliya hugged her one last time. "I'll miss you, Api. Come back soon!"

Aliza chuckled. "I will, Aalu. Six months will fly by."

With that, Aliza waved them off, disappearing into the bustling airport crowd.

On the way back home, Aaliya and her mother chatted animatedly, the night breeze blowing gently through the car windows.

"Ammi, what do you think about getting matching outfits for the mehndi? Maybe something in green and gold?" Aaliya suggested eagerly.

Her mother nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good idea. Green would look nice for the mehndi. We can also coordinate with the bridesmaids."

Aaliya tapped her chin. "And for the reception? I was thinking we could go with shades of peach and ivory."

Her mother smiled. "That sounds lovely. We'll visit the boutique this week and see what's available."

They fell into a comfortable rhythm, planning everything from jewelry to shoes.

"Oh, and Ammi," Aaliya said excitedly, "can we have a flower wall at the entrance? I saw one in a wedding video, and it looked amazing!"

Her mother chuckled. "Let's not go overboard, Aalu. But I'll see what we can manage within the budget."

Aaliya grinned. "This is going to be the best wedding ever!"

As they reached home, they both felt lighter, knowing that amidst all the excitement, they still had time to make everything perfect for Aliza's big day.

---

Three Months Later

Aliza sat bundled in a blanket, a steaming cup of tea in hand, as she stared at her phone screen. The video call with her mother flickered to life, revealing her mother's concerned face.

"Aliza, you don't look well," her mom said, leaning closer to the screen. "Are you running a fever?"

Aliza sniffled and shrugged. "It's just the cold weather here, Ammi. I'll be fine."

"Beta, you're working too much. You don't take care of yourself," her mom scolded gently. "Have you even been eating properly?"

Aliza gave a tired smile. "I have. Don't worry. It's just a busy time. The satellite launch is coming up, so there's a lot to handle."

Her mother sighed, her worry deepening. "You always push yourself too hard. Take some rest, or you'll fall seriously ill."

"I can't, Ammi. The team is counting on me. We're in the final stages of the project. Every day matters now," Aliza explained, her voice hoarse.

Her mother shook her head in disapproval. "What's the point of achieving so much if you destroy your health along the way? You need to slow down, at least a little."

Aliza pressed her temples, feeling the weight of exhaustion. "I will, I promise. Just a little more time, and everything will be done."

"Three more months, then you'll be home for good," her mother reminded her gently.

Aliza nodded, though a flicker of doubt crossed her face. "Yes... three months."

Her mom's voice softened. "Listen, beta. I know you want everything to go perfectly, but don't forget that your health is more important than anything else."

Aliza smiled weakly. "I know, Ammi. I'll manage. I just need to get through this."

Her mother gave her a reassuring look. "You've always been so strong, Aliza. But even strong people need rest. Promise me you'll take care of yourself."

"I promise," Aliza whispered, though the weight of her responsibilities still lingered heavily on her shoulders.

"Good. Now go to bed early tonight, hmm?" her mom said warmly. "We'll talk again tomorrow."

"Okay, Ammi. Good night," Aliza replied, giving her a small wave.

"Good night, beta. Allah Hafiz."

As the call ended, Aliza leaned back against the headboard, her eyes heavy with fatigue. She knew her mother was right, but with the satellite launch so close, there was no room for rest. The clock was ticking, and every second counted.

---

---

A Sudden Discovery

The hum of fluorescent lights filled the quiet hallway as Aliza walked towards her office late at night. She had come back to collect some data files she had left behind. The satellite project was nearing its most crucial phase—just a month away from launch. Every document, every piece of data, mattered now more than ever.

As she reached her office door, she heard faint voices coming from the adjacent room. Curious, she stopped in her tracks and leaned closer to the wall. It was strange—no one was supposed to be in that area at this hour. The low murmuring voice became clearer as she pressed her ear against the cold wall.

"...Yes, I have the files. It's all there—blueprints, launch schedules, coordinates," a man whispered urgently. "I'll arrange the transfer soon. I need half the payment now, and the rest after delivery."

Aliza's heart skipped a beat. Who could be talking like this? She peeked through the narrow gap between the door and its frame. Her breath caught in her throat—inside the room stood Faizan, one of her team members, someone she had worked with closely over the past year.

Faizan spoke again, his tone sharp and impatient. "You don't understand. Once this satellite is launched, the window will close. We must move now, or it'll be worthless."

Aliza's hands trembled as the truth began to sink in—Faizan was a traitor, selling critical information about the satellite project to enemies. If this data got out, the entire mission could be compromised, putting not just their project but national security at risk.

She stepped back quietly, her mind racing. What should she do? If she confronted him now, he might destroy evidence or worse—he could escape before the authorities arrived. She needed to act fast, but she also had to be cautious.

Just as she was about to retreat, the door creaked slightly under her weight. Faizan froze mid-sentence and turned towards the door, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.

"Who's there?" he called out, his voice sharp.

Aliza's heart pounded wildly. Thinking quickly, she stepped away from the door and rushed back down the hall, hoping he hadn't seen her. She reached the stairwell and ducked behind a corner, listening for footsteps.

Faizan muttered something under his breath from inside the room, then resumed his conversation, though now more cautiously.

Aliza knew what she had to do. She needed proof—and fast. If she could collect enough evidence, Faizan could be exposed before he had a chance to do any more damage. With only a month left before launch, time was running out. The stakes had never been higher.

She pulled out her phone and began recording quietly from her hiding spot. This was no longer just a mission to launch a satellite—it was a race to stop a traitor before it was too late.

---

Here's a fitting conclusion for this chapter:

---

A Race Against Time

With her heart pounding, Aliza managed to capture the conversation on her phone. The proof was now in her hands—evidence of Faizan's betrayal. But the weight of what she had just uncovered began to sink in. Could she expose him without jeopardizing the mission? Would the project survive the scandal? And what about her marriage?

Aliza leaned back against the cold wall, her mind swirling with questions. There was only one month left until the satellite launch, and every moment counted. Reporting Faizan could create delays, but not acting might result in disaster.

Her mother had already sent her designs for the wedding invitations, and the dates were set for winter. Would she be able to balance both the most important event of her career and the biggest day of her life?

As the days ticked down, Aliza knew she had to act fast. Could the satellite launch happen on time without falling apart? Would she walk down the aisle as planned, or would the weight of her discovery pull everything out of her control?

One thing was clear—her life, both personal and professional, was on the brink of profound change. And with Faizan lurking nearby, she knew she couldn't afford a single misstep.

Could she keep it all together—her job, her love, and her integrity—before time ran out?

---

This ending provides a sense of urgency, suspense, and anticipation for both the satellite launch and the wedding, setting the stage for the next chapter. Let me know if you want to adjust or refine anything further!