Rayan's POV

I finally convinced Alia to call Maryam and ask about her hand. Alia agreed, but not before advising me to move on. I asked her to put the phone on speaker, as I had been worried about Maryam since  afternoon when I saw her and Samar heading out together.

As soon as Maryam answered, she warmly greeted Alia and told her that she is fine.

I asked Alia to ask Maryam about where they went this afternoon,Maryam mentioned that Samar had taken her to see a doctor.

"She must have been injured pretty badly to need a doctor's attention," I whispered to myself. As I gazed out the window, I couldn't help but notice the moon shining brightly in the sky and wondered if Maryam was gazing at it too.

As I sat around the dinner table, Waqas announced, "I have some news to share with you. Capital Tech's investment event is happening soon, and I want you and Samar to meet me at the office tomorrow morning to discuss the details."

Mamma and I exchanged a glance, She patted me on shoulder probably thinking I am doing great in office with waqas and our relationship is going to be warm.

The next day, we found ourselves sitting on Waqas's office table, waiting for him to finish a call. When he finally hung up, he smiled mischievously and said, "You're both aware of your scorecards, Samar 1, Rayan 0."

My heart sank at the reminder of my previous failure. But Waqas continued, "Your next game is the Capital Tech investment event. I'll give you both a topic, and whoever secures the most investors will win." We nodded in unison, our competitive spirits piqued.

"The event is on Saturday night," Waqas said, settling into his CEO chair. "Let's see who'll won this seat.""

"With only two days to prepare, I was determined to win the Capital Tech investment event. I had secured the leading project in the AI domain and was ready to outshine Samar. I poured my heart and soul into preparation, working day and night.

Samar's POV

Today is an important day for CAPITAL TECHS.This investment event will help Mamma's company to grow.I worked really hard to win this deal today.

I was waiting in the living area for Maryam.She is going to KINDNESS I get to drop her there.I was sitting on the couch waiting for her she finally came.

Maryam wore a stunning abaya, its White  fabric falling in soft folds to the floor. The high neckline and long sleeves framed her face, while intricate white embroidery bloomed like flowers.

I was driving towards NGO when Maryam asked"How much does this car costs." that was an unexpected question from her."I dont know the exact price but I guess 9 crore.Do you like this car."

"Another reason to impose wealth tax" She mummled that to herself.

"What is going on your head,Love."I asked.

"You spent 9 crores on a car,isnt that crazy.You could have bought a normal car ,both does the same work."I can feel her whole attention was on my answer,I was feeling accountable to her I replied "I agree"
"Do you know top 5% richest population owns 60% of india's wealth,dont you think its really unjust."
"I agree"I said
"Shouldnt rich people be ethically responsible for this."
"I agree"I repeated myself
"Why are you agrying  on everything"
"You are my wife I will always agree with you."
"Always"She asked, I looked into her eyes and said
"yess,Always"
"okay let me test this "She remained silent and immedietly said "You are dumb"
"I agree"My reply made her laugh.I was shocked watching her laughing this hard for the first time.
"India lies in the southern hemisphere."
"I agree"She laughed harder this time and I was enjoying entertaining her.
"I am the prime minister of India"
"I totally agree "I was listening her laugh and wondered I can listen to this whole day.
"Samar, be serious.Dont you think this much wealth inequality is inhuman."
"yes .You are right.World is full of inequalities.If we observe things closely its hard to live looking at all the injustice in the world."I convayed my views and that somehow made our thought aligned.
"You said right.While some people spending crores of rupees on a medium of transport like a car while others are struggling in fulfilling basic needs of life."  I knew her intention to make me feel guilty but I made it  clear "My dad bought this car.He has this weird obsession over car collections and I dont support materialism"
"I wonder why rich people dont help in eradicating poverty."
"Ask yourself.You come under that 5% of population.You should be responsible for not helping poor"
"I do not come from that population"She said looking at me.
"Dont act dumb"I argued "You are my wife and thats why you do come from that population."
"I do not consider myself as your wife." I dont know why but I love this side of her when she purposelly act irrational.
"Everyone does.Most importantly google does."I pulled out my phn and searched .
"You are driving,Samar "She said in a warning tone.

"Look" I gave her my phone

"What,Maryam Ibrahim but I have never changed my name.Its Maryam Ahmed."She gave me my phn back and said
"Whatever but I do not include Myself into your wealth.I am financially still who I was before marrying you,a middle class. But I try my best to help people even if I dont have financial resources."
"But still we can not fully eradicate poverty."I exclaimed
"Rich people excuse."She wined
"I am  poor."I exclaimed
" How is that possible."
"As you already know Poverty is multi dimentional.Some people are financially privilaged ,they have generational wealth but they also carry generational poverty in the domain of their emotional life simultenously.For example some people got a luxurious life with family and relationships that lack love, support and care so they are emotionally poor and I am emotionally poor. However poverty in its every aspect is cruel."I found Maryam staring at me
"So the conclusion is we all are rich and poor."She replied,her gaze was fixed on my face.

"You got it right. You are quite wise"I said and smiled.

"It is essay worthy content,let me note it down."She hastly took out her diary and started writing it.

"You only think about this exam all the time.I am amazed How determined you are."I was inaudible to her.

"What were you saying"she asked after notting that down.

"Nothing,I was saying nothing"

"Samar"I love when she calls my name out of annoyance.

"Yes,Love"I replied and she gave me a deathstare .

"Dont call me that"

"What "I teased.

"Love"she replied "Why"I asked.

"It gives me the flashbacks of those scarry letters,you use to send me"

"Scarry.I never wrote you any horror story "I asked out of curiosity.

"If you  recieve love letter from unknown person.Isnt it scarry."

"You knew me.We met before .If you forget about me thats your problem."I said looking straight on the road.

"You are the most shameless person ever."Listening to that I tuened my head look at her.
"How would I know that you were sending me those.We only met for 2 mins,wait I would not consider that a meeting.I was just being nice to a total stranger and just asked him to stop smoking as smoking is deadly."
"And now you got married to that crazy stranger."My words were fuel to her anger.

She asked me to stop by a bakery.She wanted to buy some sweets for the kids.

."How much time will you take to buy a dessert."I asked Maryam but she was busy enjoying her cupcakes.

"I am confused.Should I buy vanilla  or chocolate flavour"She said while biting into vanilla cupcake.

"The one you like the most." I replied smiling as she  had frosting on her nose.

"I like both "She replied.I wiped her nose with the sleeve of my sweatshirt.

"What are you doing."She looked around her as she was embarrased.
" You had frosting on your nose "
"You should have told me instead of embarrasing me." She said while staring at me.

"I will tell you next time"I smiled .She pulled my arm and wispered into my ear  " I think that man is following us" She pointed a finger towards one of security officer.
"Dont worry ,He is just security.My father likes to keep an eye on me everytime.He even takes photos.Pose"I smiled at him
"Thank God "She sighed " I thought he was about to shoot you."

I drop her off to the NGO and tell her that I will pick her up before leaving for event.

Maryam's POV

As I finish distributing cupcakes to the NGO kids, they excitedly scatter to the playground, their laughter and shouts filling the air.

"Ma'am, do you need anything?" I hear mrs Ruby's voice in the background.

I'm lost in thought, my mind drifting back to Rayan. I spotted him earlier, tutoring kids in the NGO's study area. He hadn't noticed me. I wonder if he still volunteers here regularly.

"Mam, do you need assistance in reviewing anything?"

I turn to see Mrs. Ruby standing beside me, a warm smile on her face.

"Are you talking to me?" I ask, pointing to myself, slightly confused.

Mrs. Ruby nods, her eyes sparkling. "Yes, Mrs Ibrahim. I noticed you seemed lost in thought. Would you like some help reviewing NGO's programs or perhaps something specific?"

"Why are you addressing me as 'mam'?" I ask, confused.

Mrs. Ruby's warm smile hints at her senior position at Kindness NGO. We've interacted before when I volunteered as a tutor.

"What else should I address you, Mrs. Ibrahim?" she says,"You're Mr. Ibrahim's wife, after all. I should show respect with titles, shouldn't I?"

I feel a surge of discomfort,I use to work here as an unknown volunteer some days ago and now here I am.

"Please, Mrs. Ruby, don't call me 'mam'," I request, my tone gentle but firm. "It feels strange, especially since you're older and wiser than me. I should be showing you respect, not the other way around. I'm still the same person who used to tutor kids here, just a few weeks ago."

Mrs. Ruby's expression softens, her eyes aglow with nostalgia. "You're remarkably like your mother-in-law, Amira Shah," she says, her voice filled with emotion. "You share the same values, the same humility. She too disliked being called 'mam' by those older than her. Now I understand what drew Mr. Samar to you." Her gaze warms. "You embody Amira's kindness, Maryam."

I dont know what drew Samar to me but I wonder if mrs ruby is right.Does samar see his mothers resemblence in me.

I'm lost in thought, pondering Mrs. Ruby's words. Before I can dwell further, Mrs. Ruby breaks the silence. "Mrs. Mastoor is asking for you in her office."

I shake my head, snapping back to reality. "Yes," I reply, nodding.

Mrs. Ruby gestures for me to follow her. We walk to Alina Aunty's office, the sound of our footsteps echoing down the hallway.

I step into Alina Aunty's office, the fanciest room in the NGO.Alina Aunty greets me with open arms, enveloping me in a gentle hug.

"Maryam, how are you adjusting to your new life?" she asks, concern etched on her face. "If you're facing any challenges, don't hesitate to share. Amira may not be with us, but as her best friend, I consider myself your mother-in-law."

I smile, touched by her kindness.

Alina Aunty takes my hand, leading me to a nearby table. We sit side by side, and she begins discussing my life at Samar's home, my marriage, and Samar himself.

"Have you decided where you'll spend your honeymoon?" she inquires, her eyes sparkling.

"I don't know," I reply.

Alina Aunty's smile widens. "I think Samar is planning to surprise you."

She leans in, curiosity in her voice. "By the way, where would you like to go for honeymoon?"

I dont wanna go anywhere.I have to focus on my studies
My exams are just two months away,and thus marriage has already wasted my time.

Alina Aunty's phone rings, shrill in the silence. She answers, her voice low and concerned.

"What happened?" I ask as soon as she hangs up.

"Sana's condition is critical. I must go to the hospital," she says, worry etched on her face. "Her migraine is worsening."

Mrs. Ruby intervenes, "But, Mam, Miss Rosie will be at the restaurant in half an hour."

Alina Aunty's expression turns frantic. "Oh no...what now?"

Her eyes lock onto mine. "Maryam, can you attend to Miss Rosie? She's from France, writing an article for a prominent newspaper. This coverage would greatly benefit our NGO."

Panic sets in as I realize the enormity of Alina Aunty's request. "Aunty, I can't do it," I protest, feeling overwhelmed. "You know I've never met a foreigner before. Can't we send someone from the staff?"

Alina Aunty's expression turns resolute. "Maryam, Miss Rosie is a VIP guest. We can't send just anyone. After Samar and me, you're the only one who can attend to her. Samar's tied up with the investment event at Capital Techs."

My anxiety spikes. "But, Aunty...I'm not suitable. I'm from a different world. What if I order the wrong food or say something wrong?" I plead, desperation creeping into my voice.

Alina Aunty's eyes soften, but her tone remains firm. "Maryam, you're Samar's wife. You represent his family and this NGO. I've seen your kindness and intelligence. You'll do just fine. Trust me."

I feel a pang of despair, trapped in a reality I never anticipated.

I've become a stranger to myself since marrying him. The expectations, the protocols, the constant scrutiny – it's suffocating.

I'm crying on the inside, my heart screaming for the simple life I left behind.

"I can't do it, Alina Aunty," I say, shaking my head. "I'm not suitable for this. I don't know how to attend VIP guests or how rich people behave. "

Alina Aunty's expression turns firm. "Maryam,I need your help."

"But I don't know anything about etiquette or protocols," I protest. "What if I make a mistake?"

Alina Aunty's solution comes swiftly. "Okay, I'll ask Rayan to accompany you. He's here, let me call him."

Before I can object, she's already dialing his number.

...........

I trudge towards Rayan's car, cursing my luck. Why did I come here? I should have stayed home.

As I reach the parking lot, Rayan is engrossed in a phone call, earbuds in ears. I open the passenger door and slide in. He continues talking on the phone.

I wonder, not for the first time, why I always find myself in such situations. Rayan likely doesn't want to be with me, yet here we are, headed to dinner with a stranger.

Despite my worry, a sense of relief creeps in. With Rayan by my side, I won't have to navigate this alone. He'll handle Miss Rosie, and I can relax.

I trust him to rescue me from this distress.
..............

We sit at a lavish table in the breathtaking restaurant, surrounded by crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows. Miss Rosie, with her striking pixie haircut and piercing blue eyes, engages Rayan in effortless conversation.

I zone out, replaying our introduction in my mind. "Alina already told me about you," Miss Rosie said with a warm smile. "You're Samar Ibrahim's wife." The whole scene seem awkward in front of Rayan.

Miss Rosie's gaze returns to me, her eyes sparkling. "Your mother-in-law was a dear friend. I wrote an article about her when she first opened The Kindness NGO. What a lovely woman.I am happy to write about kindness's 25th anniversery."

The waiter arrives with our orders, and I'm dismayed to see the same bland dishes that have become a staple at Samar's house. The past week has been a culinary disappointment, with every meal lacking the vibrant spices and flavors I crave.But I like the lunch today it was something like noodles.

I glance at miss rosie's plate, noticing the salmon, potatoes, and an assortment of fancy accompaniments. My stomach turns at the thought of trying the salmon; I've never had it before, and I'm certain I won't enjoy it.

Rayan catches my eye, noticing my disinterest in the food. Without a word, he summons the waiter and orders butter chicken and naan for me.

I'm taken aback by his thoughtfulness. We haven't exchanged a single word since I returned to Delhi. He spent the entire drive here on a phone call, yet he's attentive to my needs.

I offer a "thank you" to Rayan, but he doesn't respond. His gaze meets mine for a fleeting moment, and I sense a mix of emotions: hurt, anger, and beneath that, a lingering concern.

We reached NGO with Miss rosie.Mrs ruby greeted her and took Rosie with her.

Me and Rayan was alone in the garden surrounded by some old women who were jogging .

Rayan was about to leave and I asked,"Why did you started working at CAPITAL TECHS when your dream is to work at google."

He remained silent his back facing me.
"Say something ,Rayan" I was annoyed with his silence he never talked to me the whole time.

He still said nothing and started walking towards parking lot.I screamed" Am I invisible to you"He stopped and turned around.
"You didnt even asked about my injury."I said.

"You dont need me, you are strong enough to handle your problems"He replied and walked away.

I was left alone in the garden watching him dissapear.