The day of shopping was nothing short of a delightful adventure filled with laughter, playful teasing, and adorable moments. Saad and Junaid spent most of their time flirting and teasing Sheza and Maira, both of whom turned red with bashful smiles, trying to hide their coy faces.

Sheza had come prepared, as always, with her little diary in hand, detailing all the shops she wanted to visit and the things she wanted to buy. When Junaid noticed her flipping through the pages, he couldn't resist teasing her.

"What's this? A whole shopping plan in your tiny notebook?" Junaid teased with a smirk, leaning over her shoulder to glance at the pages. Sheza immediately let out a dramatic gasp and playfully smacked his arm with a pout.

"Yah! This is important!" she whined, her voice taking on that cute, high-pitched tone that always melted Saad's heart.

"Important?" Junaid continued, grinning widely. "It looks like a little treasure map for a shopping spree!"

Unable to handle the teasing any longer, Sheza huffed, closing her diary with a snap. She quickly turned toward Maira and ran to her like a child running to her mother for protection. "Ammi! Abbu is bullying me!" she exclaimed, hiding behind Maira's shoulder with her face adorably scrunched up in a pout.

Maira, put on a serious face and turned to Junaid, wagging a finger at him. "Junaid, stop teasing her! She's worked hard on this plan. You should be grateful for all the effort she's put into making today special."

Junaid's mischievous grin faltered for a moment, and he quickly realized he was outnumbered. Scratching the back of his neck sheepishly, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a chocolate bar, holding it out toward Sheza as an apology. "Alright, alright. I'm sorry, little princess. Here, take this as a peace offering," he said, offering the treat with a guilty smile.

Sheza peeked out from behind Maira, her eyes lighting up as she saw the chocolate. She smiled brightly, stepping forward to accept the gift. "Thank you, abbu!" she said sweetly, her earlier annoyance forgotten as she clutched the chocolate in her small hands. But, instead of standing there, she quickly retreated behind Maira again, hiding playfully, much to the amusement of everyone around.

Both Saad and Junaid erupted into hearty laughter, the sound filling the shop. Even Maira, who had tried to keep a stern face, couldn't help but let out a chuckle at the adorable antics of her daughter-in-law.

"Looks like the little princess has taken over the mafia!" Saad teased, winking at Junaid, who could only laugh harder.

The rest of the day went with that same lighthearted energy. They visited every shop Sheza had marked in her diary, purchasing clothes, perfumes, and little trinkets that caught Sheza's eye. Every now and then, she'd pout and act cute when things didn't go exactly as she planned, and Saad would immediately swoop in, wrapping her up in his arms and promising to make it all better.

As the day came to a close, Sheza, with her arms full of shopping bags, grinned up at the family surrounding her. Despite the teasing, the banter, and the playful scolding, she knew one thing for certain—she had found a place where she was loved, cherished, and protected, and that was the greatest treasure of all.

The next day in the kitchen, Sheza stood in the center, her small frame looking almost lost in the massive, polished space. Her hands rested on her tiny waist, her natural pout evident as she surveyed the activity happening around her. The workers, under her soft-spoken direction, were busy putting away the groceries the Khan family had bought the previous day.

Sheza's large Bambi eyes flitted across the room, watching closely as the workers followed her every instruction. "Yes, there. Put the spices in that box in the cabinet... And those refreshments, up in the cabinet above," she said, her voice soft but filled with the responsibility she felt.

The workers moved efficiently, respectfully carrying out her instructions. Even though they knew Sheza was gentle, sweet as a marshmallow, and wouldn't scold them even if something went wrong, their respect for her ran deep. Being the only daughter-in-law of the Khans, she was beloved, and her kindness made it all the easier to admire her.

After what seemed like hours of organizing, Sheza finally clasped her hands together in front of her chest and smiled at them warmly. "Alright, all done and set. Thank you so much, everyone. You've made my work so much easier! I promise to give you all a treat soon; you deserve it," she said, her voice filled with sincere gratitude.

The workers, lined up in a neat row, smiled back at her. "You're welcome, Mrs. Khan!" they responded in unison, their voices reflecting the warmth she had shown them.

Sheza nodded her head, signaling them to leave the kitchen. Once the last worker exited, closing the door softly behind them, the bright smile on her face faltered. Alone now, she could finally let down the façade she'd been holding up. Her breathing became shallow, her heart racing, and the familiar creeping feeling of anxiety began to settle in.

She had done it. She had managed to give directions and speak in front of a whole team—20, maybe 50 people—and now that it was over, the reality of what she had done hit her hard. The anxiety she had pushed aside during the task now came rushing back with full force.

She tried to steady herself, placing a hand on the kitchen counter to balance her wobbling legs, but it was too late. The black spots that danced in front of her eyes grew larger, and the room started to spin. Her breathing became even more erratic, and she struggled to draw air into her lungs.

Just as she began to collapse to the floor, her vision blurring completely, she heard the faint, panicked voice of her husband calling out to her. "Begum!!" Saad's voice echoed in the distance.

But it was too late. Darkness enveloped her, and she fainted, her body hitting the floor with a soft thud as her mind shut down, overcome by the anxiety that had been building since she spoke in front of the group.

Saad's heart raced as he bolted toward Sheza's fragile body on the cold kitchen floor. Panic surged through him like a tidal wave, and her name tore from his throat. "Begum!!" he shouted desperately, dropping to his knees beside her.

He quickly cradled her small, unconscious frame in his arms, gently resting her head on his lap. His large, trembling hand lightly patted her pale cheek, hoping for any sign of response. "Begum, wake up, please," he whispered, his voice laced with fear. But there was no movement, no flutter of her eyelids. She remained still, her delicate body limp in his hold.

Saad's panic spiked, and with a voice that shook the entire kitchen, he bellowed, "WAHAJ!!"

The guard, Wahaj, came bursting into the kitchen, his eyes wide in shock at the sight before him. His normally stoic face filled with horror. He had never seen Saad like this—so frantic, so unhinged.

Without wasting a second, Saad scooped Sheza's light frame into his arms, holding her tightly to his chest. His voice was sharp, cutting through the room with deadly authority. "Call a female doctor. Tell them they have five minutes to be here, or I'll burn their hospital to the ground and kill them," he roared, his fury mixing with the overwhelming panic that bubbled inside him.

Wahaj immediately nodded, not daring to hesitate, and ran off to make the call, knowing that Saad was not someone to cross, especially when it came to Sheza.

Saad, meanwhile, hurried up the staircase with Sheza cradled securely in his arms, his long strides taking him to their room in mere seconds. Reaching the door, he kicked it open with force, the lock shattering as the door swung wide. But he didn't care. His mind was on one thing and one thing only—his Begum.

He laid her gently on the soft mattress, her small frame looking even tinier against the vast bed. He loosened her hijab carefully, letting it slip from her face to allow more air. He didn't dare remove it entirely, respecting her modesty even in this state, but anything to give her more comfort.

He pulled the duvet up to her chin, tucking her in as if she were a delicate flower, his every move was gentle and protective. Then, he sat beside her, his hand stroking her covered head lovingly, his fingers trembling slightly as they glided through the fabric.

His green eyes, usually filled with strength and determination, now glistened with helplessness and fear. He had never felt so powerless in his life. Watching his beloved in such a state—so fragile, so still—it was tearing him apart inside.

"Please, Begum," he whispered, his voice breaking. "Wake up. Please, I need you."

And what happened next was nothing short of shocking. As Saad muttered the name of the Almighty, "Allah," a serene sense of peace washed over him. In that moment, it felt like a divine presence had wrapped itself around him, calming his frantic heart. His lips had never felt such relief in simply uttering that name, and his heart, which had been racing in panic, finally slowed, feeling lighter.

For the first time in his life, Saad understood the power of belief, the power of faith—something his beloved Begum, Sheza, had always held close to her heart. Today, he truly felt it, the reassurance that comes from calling upon the Almighty for help. He had broken down, messy curls falling over his forehead from his usually perfectly styled hair, but there was peace within him now—a sense of calm he hadn't expected.

As he looked at Sheza's peaceful face, unconscious but still glowing, he smiled. Her serene expression was like a symbol of her unwavering faith, how much she believed in Allah, and how that belief had now passed on to him in this moment of desperation. It was as though she had planted that seed of faith within him, and now, it was finally blossoming.

With a shaky breath, Saad picked up his phone and quickly dialed his parents, informing them of Sheza's condition. Panic filled their voices on the other end, but he reassured them, promising that everything was under control. As he ended the call, Saad returned to Sheza's side, gently stroking her hand with his thumb.

"My Begum, you truly are an angel," Saad whispered, his voice soft with gratitude. He leaned down and pressed a tender kiss on her forehead, a gesture full of reverence and affection. In that moment, she was not just his wife but the person who had taught him the true meaning of faith.

Just then, a soft knock interrupted his thoughts, pulling him back to reality. Saad cleared his throat, quickly wiping away any trace of his tears, not wanting anyone to see his vulnerability.

"Enter," his deep, commanding voice filled the room, instantly regaining its usual authoritative tone.

The door opened to reveal a woman in a hijab, covered modestly in a black abaya, her face partially concealed behind a matching black mask. She moved with a composed and professional air, her eyes scanning the room before landing on Sheza's still form.

"Salam, Mr. Khan. I am Doctor Jannat," the woman introduced herself, her voice firm yet calm as she glanced over at Sheza with practiced professionalism.

"Wa-Alaikum-Salaam, Dr. Jannat," Saad replied, his attention still mostly on his wife, his hand gently stroking hers.

Dr. Jannat approached the bed, her expression focused as she began to assess Sheza's condition. "Can you provide me with the details of what happened?" she asked, her tone direct but understanding.

As Saad explained the sequence of events—how Sheza had fainted from an anxiety attack after being overwhelmed by speaking in front of the staff—Dr. Jannat nodded, listening carefully while checking Sheza's vitals. She worked swiftly but with a sense of calm that helped ease the tension in the room.

Just as Dr. Jannat continued her examination, the door quietly creaked open again, revealing Junaid and Maira, who had arrived at the mansion. Despite their obvious worry, they entered with an air of composure, though Maira's eyes darted nervously to Sheza's unconscious form.

Saad met his father's gaze and gave a subtle nod, a silent gesture of reassurance that everything was under control, though his heart still weighed heavily. Junaid returned the nod with an understanding look, his hand resting gently on Maira's arm as they moved closer to the bed.

"She's in good hands now," Saad muttered quietly, his voice steady but his hand still tightly clutching Sheza's, unwilling to let go.

Maira's eyes filled with unshed tears, but she held herself together, standing quietly beside the door, staring at the pale face of Sheza. Junaid stood beside her, his hand on her shoulder, silently watching his daughter-in-law, the light of their family, who had brought them all together.

As Dr. Jannat finished her examination, she turned to Saad and his parents. "It seems to be an anxiety attack, likely triggered by stress. Her body's response was to shut down, which is why she fainted. She'll be alright, but she needs rest and to avoid any unnecessary stress for a while," she said calmly, her voice reassuring but firm.

Saad nodded, taking in the doctor's words. Relief washed over him, but the sight of Sheza lying so still still tugged at his heart. "Thank you, Doctor," he said softly, his voice laced with gratitude.

Doctor Jannat gave a final nod and then made her way out, leaving the family alone. Saad exhaled deeply and turned his attention back to his Begum, her small hand still enveloped in his.

"She's going to be okay, right?" Maira asked softly, her voice trembling slightly.

"She'll be fine," Saad said, his voice firmer now, full of determination. "She has to be."

When Sheza finally woke up, everything around her felt blurry, like she was still stuck in a dream. She blinked slowly, trying to make sense of what had happened, but her mind was foggy, and nothing came back clearly. She felt confused and a little lost, her body heavy and weak.

Saad was already at her side, watching her closely with a mixture of love and relief. The moment her eyes opened, he leaned in, gently holding her hand as if he was afraid she might slip away again. His touch was soft, careful, as though she was the most delicate thing in the world.

"Begum, you're awake," he said quietly, his voice calm and soothing.

Sheza turned to look at him, her brow furrowing in confusion. She wanted to speak, but Saad gently brushed the hair away from her face and whispered, "Shh, don't try to talk just yet. You're safe, and I'm right here."

Her wide eyes, still sleepy and uncertain, searched his face. "What happened?" she asked softly, her voice weak.

"You fainted, love," Saad explained gently, never letting go of her hand. "But don't worry, the doctor came, and you're okay now. You just need some rest."

Sheza tried to remember, but everything was hazy. "I fainted?" she repeated, still confused.

"Yes," Saad said, his thumb gently stroking her cheek. "But it's alright. I'm here, and you're going to be fine."

Even though she couldn't remember much, Sheza felt comforted by Saad's presence. His calm voice and soft touch helped soothe her scattered thoughts. She leaned into his hand without realizing it, searching for the warmth and reassurance he always gave her.

"I feel... strange," she admitted quietly.

"I know," Saad replied, his voice full of understanding. "Your body's been through a lot, but you're safe now. That's all that matters."

He kissed her forehead gently, lingering for a moment as if trying to give her some of his strength. "Just rest, my little Begum. I'll take care of everything."

Sheza smiled a little, feeling safe with him by her side. "You always take care of me," she whispered.

"And I always will," Saad replied softly. His gaze was full of love as he pulled the blanket up to keep her warm and comfortable.

Sheza started to feel sleepy again. Her eyes drooped, and she searched for Saad's hand, making him chuckle. He gently held her wrist and asked, "What's wrong, my little pigeon?"

Sheza weakly tugged his hand closer and mumbled in a quiet, tired voice, "Cuddles..."

Saad's heart melted at her cuteness. He cooed softly, "Aww, you're so adorable, my baby," he whispered, leaning closer to her. But Sheza, impatient and still half-asleep, slurred, "Come here..."

Smiling at how cute she was, Saad quickly kicked off his shoes and unbuttoned his shirt, tossing it aside. He climbed under the duvet beside her and cuddled her from behind, wrapping his arms around her tiny frame.

Sheza giggled in her sleep, turning to face him with big, sleepy eyes and a pout. "So sleepy..." she whispered.

Saad, smiling at her, gently removed her hijab to help her feel more comfortable. He sighed in relief when he saw her long, silky hair, which reminded him of Rapunzel's. Her hair was his comfort, his own way of relaxing.

He ran his fingers through her hair softly, knowing it would help her fall asleep while calming his own mind too. For Saad, stroking her hair was like medicine—soothing for both of them.

Sheza's soft snores filled the room, quiet and gentle, like whispers in the stillness. Saad couldn't take his eyes off her peaceful, serene face. She looked so calm, so delicate, and just the sight of her made his heart race. It was as if every beat was trying to express the overwhelming love he felt for her.

He pulled her even closer, wrapping his arms around her small frame and holding her tightly against his chest. The warmth of her body and the steady rhythm of her breathing soothed him, but at the same time, he felt his own heart pounding abnormally fast, filled with emotions too big to put into words.

In that moment, everything else faded away. All that mattered was that she was in his arms, safe and sound, resting peacefully. He buried his face in her hair, inhaling her familiar scent, and closed his eyes, silently thanking Allah for this precious moment. Sheza was his everything, his world, and holding her like this reminded him just how much she meant to him.

"Baby?" Sheza faintly heard the soft voice echoing in her mind, distant at first, hazy and unclear. Slowly, as her senses began to return, the soothing calls became more distinct. She let out a sleepy hum, her eyes fluttering messily as she tried to shake off the drowsiness.

Saad, sensing her stirring, nuzzled his face gently into the crook of her neck, his warm breath tickling her skin. His grip around her tiny waist tightened just a little, enough to hold her close, while his hand softly caressed her side in slow, comforting strokes. The tenderness in his touch made her feel safe, wrapped in his warmth and care, easing her back into full consciousness.

"Baby, can you hear me? If yes, then show me by clenching your hand in air," Saad whispered with a soft chuckle in his voice, gently coaxing her out of her drowsy state.

Sheza, still half-asleep, pouted dryly. Her lips parted in the smallest, most adorable pout, her brows furrowing as if the simple task was the most strenuous thing ever. Slowly, with all the sleepy perseverance in her tiny body, she raised her hand from beneath the cozy duvet and clenched it into the softest, most precious little fist.

Saad couldn't help it; he burst into a quiet laugh. His heart practically melted at the sight of her delicate, child-like pink hand, clenched into that small, weak fist in the air, so small that it seemed almost weightless. His heart did a flip, and without thinking, he cupped that tiny, cute fist in his large, warm palm and brought it to his lips, pressing the gentlest kiss onto her soft knuckles.

Sheza giggled lowly, the sound like the sweetest melody to his ears. Without warning, she unwrapped her tiny fist and circled both arms around his neck, pulling him into a hug that could only be described as the cutest koala-like cuddle. She latched onto him, her small body clinging to him with surprising strength for someone so soft and delicate. Her nose nuzzled against his neck, and she let out a soft, content sigh.

She sniffed the light scent of the Ittar they had bought together, the familiar fragrance making her smile dreamily. Her lips brushed against his skin, and her voice, still small and sleepy, mumbled, "You smell so good, habibi."

Saad's heart exploded in his chest. It was almost too much—her soft hair tickling his face, her sleepy snuggles, the way her voice dripped with innocent affection. He gently stroked her back, wrapping her even more snugly in the duvet, his lips brushing against the top of her head as he whispered, "You're so cute, my little Begum, I could hold you forever."

Sheza smiled into his neck, her small body completely relaxed against his, and gave another soft, koala-like cling. The sweetness of the moment was almost unbearable, as if the room had been overlaid with pure fluff and warmth, wrapping them both in an impenetrable bubble of love. It was so overwhelmingly adorable that anyone witnessing the scene would undoubtedly have suffered a nosebleed from the sheer cuteness overload.

Her soft breaths, her sweet little giggles, and the way she seemed to melt into his embrace made Saad's chest ache with a kind of affection he never thought possible. "Mine," she mumbled in her sleepy haze, as if staking her claim over him, and Saad couldn't help but chuckle, his heart swelling even more.

"Yes, yours. Always yours," he whispered back, his voice filled with endless warmth.

"You know... today Mom did something she hasn't done in the past twenty years," Saad whispered softly in her ear, his voice low and tender. His one hand gently stroked her back in soothing circles, while his other hand fussed over the duvet, tucking it around her protectively. He wouldn't allow even the slightest cold breeze to touch her warm, snug body. She had to be perfectly cocooned, perfectly safe in his embrace.

Sheza, still nuzzling into the crook of his neck, let out a soft hum, her curiosity piqued despite the coziness that threatened to pull her back into sleep. Her voice came out muffled, the softness of his skin against her lips as she asked, "What did she do?"

Saad smiled, the warmth of the memory lighting up his face. His heart softened further, if that was even possible. He leaned down, pressing his lips to her temple as he whispered his next words, "She cooked for you."

Sheza's sleepy eyes fluttered open wider, and she pulled back slightly to look at him, her brows furrowing in surprise. "What? She did?" she asked, her voice filled with a mixture of astonishment and disbelief.

Saad nodded, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. "Yeah, she did. She hasn't cooked for anyone in twenty years. But today... for you, she did."

Sheza's heart swelled at his words, her eyes widening in disbelief. She had always known how much Saad's mother valued her, but this... this was beyond anything she could have imagined. Her hands gently gripped Saad's shirt, pulling herself closer to him as if seeking reassurance that she wasn't dreaming.

"I don't know what to say," she whispered, her voice barely audible as her emotions overwhelmed her. Saad smiled and pulled her closer, and asked, "Do you want to eat?" Sheza looked at him with big Bambi eyes and nodded her head vigorouslyly. Saad chuckled and pecked her lips softly. His smile widened as the reaction of the peck was the reddening of her chubby cheek.

"Aww, don't be this much cute, or else I will nom nom you," Saad exclaimed and acted like biting on her neck, Sheza giggled and squealed as his teeth grazed her skin.

"I am hungry, I want to eattt! Bring me food please!!" Sheza squeaked in a whiny tone, "Okay, okay my hungry baby, wait lemme call mom, hm?" Sheza made a hum noise as an agreement. Saad turned his body toward the nightstand and took his phone, dialing his mother's number, he massaged her head making her sigh in relief. 

Saad waited as the phone rang, his fingers gently massaging Sheza's scalp in a soothing rhythm. Sheza let out a contented sigh, her head nestled comfortably on his chest as she snuggled even closer. The warmth of his embrace, combined with the tenderness of his touch, made her feel like she was floating in a dream, completely protected from the world outside.

When Saad's mother finally picked up, he smiled as he spoke into the phone, keeping his voice low to maintain the calm atmosphere. "Mom, your favorite daughter-in-law is awake and starving," he teased, glancing down at Sheza with a playful wink. Sheza pouted, her lips forming a small pout as she gave him a sleepy glare, but there was a twinkle in her eyes.

On the other end of the line, his mother laughed softly. "I'll bring up the food, don't worry. I made her a healthy porridge," she replied warmly. "But make sure she rests well."

"I'll make sure of it, Mom," Saad replied, his eyes still focused on Sheza's face, watching her slowly blink up at him with sleepy adoration.

After a few more words, Saad hung up the phone and placed it back on the nightstand. He turned his attention fully back to Sheza, his hand returning to gently caress her back, ensuring she stayed comfortable and warm.

"Food's coming soon, baby," Saad whispered, leaning down to plant a soft kiss on her forehead. "Mom made a porridge for you. You're going to love it."

Sheza's eyes sparkled with excitement, her sleepy demeanor fading just a little as the thought of food filled her mind. "Yay, food!" she chirped, her voice brightening as she wriggled happily in his arms.

Saad laughed softly, his heart swelling at her adorable reaction. "You're too cute," he murmured, giving her another playful kiss, this time on her nose. "You know that?"

Sheza blushed again, burying her face in his chest to hide her flushed cheeks. "I'm hungry," she mumbled, though the smile on her face betrayed how much she was enjoying his attention.

"And you're about to be fed like a queen," Saad said, tightening his hold on her just slightly, his voice full of affection. "Until then, I'll keep you warm and cozy, okay?"

Sheza nodded, her small arms wrapping around his waist as she cuddled closer, her heart full and happy. She couldn't imagine a better place to be—safe in his arms, awaiting a meal made with love. All was right in her little world.

The door creaked open softly, and Saad lifted his head, noticing Maira stepping in with a maid following behind, carrying a tray filled with breakfast for him and Sheza. The delicious smell of food wafted through the room, but Saad's focus remained on his wife.

He gave Maira a polite nod of acknowledgment, and she returned the gesture with a smile. However, her smile instantly grew wider as her eyes landed on the sight beside him—Sheza, the mafia princess, curled up against Saad's side, looking impossibly small and delicate. She was wrapped in a blanket, her face nuzzled into Saad's chest, completely knocked out, soft snores escaping her every few breaths.

"Hey, kitten," Maira whispered with a gentle tone, hoping to get a response, but all she got in return was the quiet sound of Sheza's breathing. Saad let out a soft chuckle and glanced down at his adorable wife. "She's sleeping," he said, amusement dancing in his voice.

Maira couldn't help but grin, excitement bubbling inside her as she tiptoed closer to the bed. She had never seen Sheza like this before—so peaceful and quiet. Usually, she was full of energy, her bubbly personality lighting up the room, but now, she was like a little kitten, curled up and snuggled against Saad, completely lost in her dreams.

Maira leaned in slightly, her eyes softening as she observed the sleeping figure. "I've never seen her this calm," she whispered, her grin widening. It was a rare moment, one that she found almost magical. "She's always so full of life, bouncing around. This is... precious."

Saad's eyes flickered with warmth as he gently brushed a strand of hair away from Sheza's face. "She burns through all her energy during the day," he replied quietly, not wanting to disturb her. "But when she sleeps, she's like this—a complete baby." His voice carried a glint of affection that Maira had never quite heard before.

Maira smiled, her heart melting at the sight of the tough, stoic businessman showing such a tender side. "She's lucky to have you," Maira murmured, watching how naturally Saad held Sheza, his protective arm around her. There was no doubt that he was her safe space.

Saad glanced at Maira and gave her a small smile—one of those rare, fleeting ones. "I'm the lucky one," he admitted, his voice low, but filled with sincerity.

Just then, Sheza stirred slightly, her nose scrunching up cutely as she nestled deeper into Saad's chest, but she didn't wake up. Maira held back a giggle, placing a hand over her mouth to keep quiet. "I can't get over how adorable she is."

Saad's hand gently rubbed Sheza's back, his touch soft and full of care. "She has no idea," he murmured, his eyes never leaving his wife's sleeping form.

Maira, still standing near the bed, eventually signaled to the maid to place the breakfast on the nearby table. "I'll leave you two lovebirds to enjoy your morning," she teased lightly, her voice soft but playful.

As she walked out of the room, Maira couldn't stop smiling. It was a side of Saad and Sheza she hadn't expected to see, and it made her heart warm. Behind the serious businessman and the lively, bubbly woman, there was a quiet, cosy love that made them so much more than what others saw.

Saad leaned in close to Sheza, his voice soft and gentle as he whispered in her ear, "My baby, wake up. Your food is here." Sheza stirred in her sleep, scrunching her nose adorably before slowly blinking her eyes open. Her sleepy gaze met his, and she gave him a cute, pouty look before nodding and letting out a long, tired yawn.

Amused, Saad sat up straight and carefully gathered her still-lazy body in his hands, helping her sit up properly. Sheza frowned, pouting even more as she looked at him with irritation. "Leave me," she mumbled, her voice still groggy with sleep, "I want to go to the restroom."

Saad chuckled at her adorable frustration, finding it impossible to take her anger seriously when she looked so soft and sleepy. "Alright, alright," he said, releasing her with a smile. "Go ahead. I'll be here when you're ready."

Sheza gave him one last pout before lazily slipping off the bed, her steps slow as she made her way to the restroom. Saad watched her with fondness, shaking his head slightly as he admired how even her annoyed, groggy self was irresistibly cute.

As she disappeared into the restroom, Saad sat back, already anticipating her return, knowing full well she'd probably still be half asleep when she came back to join him for breakfast. Saad quickly tidied up the bed, smoothing out the sheets and fluffing the pillows, all while waiting for Sheza to return. A few minutes later, she emerged from the restroom looking refreshed, though still carrying the remnants of her extended sleep. Her once tangled hair, which had been forming a bird's nest earlier, now lay neatly over her shoulders like soft silk threads, thanks to the quick combing she had done.

Though her face was still a bit puffy from all the sleep, her large, Bambi-like eyes were bright and wide awake. She looked fresh. Saad couldn't help but smile as she approached, feeling a wave of fondness for his sleepy, yet now fully refreshed wife.

"Feeling better?" he asked, his voice light and teasing as he admired her transformation from a sleepy kitten to a refreshed beauty.

Sheza nodded, rubbing her eyes one last time and then giving him a soft smile. "Much better," she mumbled, stretching her arms lazily before plopping herself next to Saad on the bed.

The maid had already placed the breakfast tray on the nearby table, and Saad gestured toward it. "Come on, let's eat before your food gets cold," he said.

Sheza's eyes sparkled as she turned her attention to the tray, "Yes! I'm starving!" she exclaimed, her voice full of enthusiasm as she eagerly reached for the food, her earlier frustration now completely forgotten.

Saad chuckled softly, watching her dive into the breakfast with the same energy she always had. "Bismillah," Sheza muttered before taking a bite from the porridge made by her mother-in-law. Her eyes lit up as soon as the first spoonful hit her taste buds. "Mmmmm, soooooo tasty!!" she squealed, savoring every bit of the warm, comforting meal. Saad couldn't help but chuckle as he ate alongside her, her enthusiasm always contagious.

As they continued eating in companionable silence, Saad's expression grew thoughtful. He glanced at Sheza, who was still happily munching away, and felt a wave of nostalgia wash over him. He put down his spoon and leaned back slightly, his voice quieter now.

"You know," he began, "after tasting this, I can't help but remember the days when it was just me, Mom, and Dad in that small rented house. It was tiny, but it was our haven. Our safe place. Everything was so simple then, before Dad made a name for himself in business or got involved with the mafia. We were just... happy. Content."

Sheza paused, listening attentively as Saad opened up about his past. His voice was soft but laced with emotion, a side he rarely showed.

"Back then, every day was like this—Mom cooking in the kitchen, Dad getting ready for work, and me waking up late on my days off from school. I'd sleep in till ten, and when I finally got up, I could hear Dad listening to the news while he dressed, and the whole house would be filled with the smell of Mom's cooking. It was... perfect," he said, a wistful smile tugging at his lips. "The morning sunlight would pour into the house, lighting up every corner, and for a few moments, everything was peaceful. Just a normal, goofy family. We'd tease each other, joke around, eat together. It felt like nothing in the world could ever break that."

Sheza's eyes softened as she watched him, sensing the weight of the memories he was sharing. She reached out and gently placed her hand over his, offering silent support.

"But everything changed," Saad continued, his gaze distant, "when Dad became successful. When he entered the business world, and Mom... joined the mafia." His voice lowered, filled with a mixture of pride and sadness. "Our lives shifted after that. The warmth, the simplicity—it all disappeared. We were no longer just a regular family. We were part of something bigger, something dangerous."

He looked at Sheza then, his eyes full of raw emotion. "Sometimes, I miss that old life, the one where we were just... us. No titles, no power, no danger. Just family."

Sheza squeezed his hand gently, her own heart aching for the life he had lost. "It sounds like a beautiful time," she said softly. "But you still have your family, Saad. You still have those memories, and they shaped you into who you are now. No matter how much has changed, you still carry that love with you."

Saad nodded, a faint smile returning to his face. "Yeah, you're right. And now, I have you," he added, his voice warming. "Maybe we can create our own version of that happiness. A safe place for us."

Sheza's face brightened at his words. "We will, Insha'Allah," she said, her voice filled with determination. "And who knows, maybe one day we'll have our own tiny home where we can tease each other and eat Mom's porridge together."