Note!; There are five chapters all merged in chapter 33 because I unfortunately lost some chapters on wattpad. I have separated them as:
VI VII VIII IX X.
Enjoy!

[VI]

Jadwa prayed, then settled back into sleep, awakening only when her sisters, accompanied by Ameerah, burst into the room. She ignored their banter, proceeding with her usual morning routine. In less than two hours, she was dressed in a grey and white floral summer dress, veil neatly wrapped, and sandals in hand. As Zarah, Hanan, and Ameerah chatted animatedly about pregnancy, Jadwa listened attentively, occasionally offering her thoughts.

Ameerah proudly displayed her tiny bump, barely visible. "Oh my God," Jadwa cooed softly as Zarah left the room.

Jadwa approached Ameerah, placing a hand on her belly. "Can you feel the baby move?" she inquired, eliciting a laugh from Ameerah.

"Not yet, it's too early," Ameerah replied, smoothing down her top. "How would it move when she's barely in her first trimester?" Hanan added knowingly, and Jadwa nodded in agreement.

"Both of you should start preparing now," Ameerah advised.

Jadwa and Hanan bursted out laughing at their sister in law.
Before Jadwa and Hanan could recover from their hearty laughter and respond, Anaya entered with Zarah. "Helloooo!" Jadwa exclaimed, rushing to embrace her.

"Jadu, how are you?" Anaya reciprocated warmly.

"Alhamdulillah! I missed you," Jadwa replied, holding her close.

"I missed you more. Why do you look so radiant?" Anaya asked, genuinely curious.

"It's just me," Jadwa shrugged coyly.

"She's been pampered day and night, that's why," Hanan interjected playfully.

"Already??" Anaya exclaimed, surprised.

"Yes," Zarah chuckled, helping Anaya set down the bags. "MashaAllah, your skin looks amazing," Anaya complimented, feeling Jadwa's smooth skin.

"Thank you," Jadwa replied gratefully, glancing at the bags of clothes. Anaya unpacked them, revealing three laces, two Ankaras, and two ready-made dresses.

"They're gorgeous," Jadwa exclaimed sincerely, admiring each piece with delight. She felt overwhelmed with gratitude, a smile spreading across her face.

"MashaAllah!!!" Hanan exclaimed excitedly.

"Can I have this one?" Zarah asked, eyeing a dress eagerly.

"No!" Jadwa replied swiftly, giving her a pointed look as she repacked the fabrics.

"Jadu, please," Zarah pleaded with a pout, trying emotional blackmail.

"I'm not giving you anything," Jadwa replied firmly, sealing the bags and giving Zarah a meaningful look.

"Why not? I really like that one too," Ameerah chimed in with a hopeful expression.

"If you want it, tell your husband to buy it for you," Jadwa teased playfully, winking at Ameerah.

Gasps filled the room, even from Anaya, who had been quietly observing their banter.

"Hmm, sannu Jadu mai miji," Hanan chuckled, drawing exasperated sighs from the others.

"Naji ba komai," Jadwa replied light-heartedly.

Ameerah and Zarah groaned playfully, their satisfaction evident beneath the surface, a shared happiness that bonded them as sisters.

The girls left for downstairs, leaving Anaya, Hanan, and Jadwa behind. They discussed school and exam dates, Anaya expressing nervousness over her upcoming exams. Jadwa reassured her, easing her anxiety with comforting words.

"Your husband will kill me if I fail," Anaya joked, and Jadwa laughed, lightening the mood.

"Don't worry, I'm here to defend you," Jadwa reassured, earning a relieved sigh from Anaya.

"I'll take your word for it," Anaya replied. "Oh, and he said we're going to Grace later! I've already booked an appointment."

"Should we leave after we set up or after the men leave?" Jadwa inquired.

"Either is fine with me," Anaya replied.

"Okay, let's finish setting up and leave before the men arrive, I think that's better" Jadwa suggested. It was Hannan's engagement, and while she stayed in Jadwa's room working on her laptop, the others set the table and prepared bakhoor as instructed by Ammi.

Later, Jadwa left Zarah and Anaya to finish downstairs and joined Ammi in her room, finding her tying her laffaya.

"Ammi, Ya Imran sent these," Jadwa said, handing over the contents of the bag.

"Ahh, tabarakallah, MashaAllah, these are beautiful, Jadu," Ammi admired, examining the fabrics carefully.

"Yes, he said Anaya and I should take them to Grace together," Jadwa explained. Grace was a renowned designer in Abuja, and both she and Anaya frequented the boutique.

"MashaAllah, but these are expensive, make sure you don't waste them on tight-fitting dresses, especially these laces," Ammi cautioned.

"Okay, Ammi," Jadwa chuckled.

"I'm serious, and be mindful of what you wear outside," Ammi added seriously, eyeing Jadwa's attire.

Jadwa stood up, adjusted her dress, and twirled for Ammi.

"There, see?" Jadwa teased, and Ammi shook her head fondly.

"Now it's his responsibility! I can't keep up with you and your dressing anymore," Ammi said, standing up.

"Ammi," Jadwa protested, holding her hands as she got up.

"Leave me, please, before the guests arrive," Ammi urged, and Jadwa pouted before gathering the fabrics and heading downstairs to meet Anaya.

"Ready to go?" Jadwa asked cheerfully.

"Yes, I am," Anaya replied, equally excited, and they bid farewell to the other girls, with Zarah sulking because she couldn't join them.

Anaya had her driver, and they made use of him as they headed to Grace's studio. They spent over an hour selecting designs, getting illustrations, and making adjustments before settling on their final choices. When it came time to pay, Jadwa retrieved Imran's card and settled the bill.

They also stopped to pick out heels, with Jadwa opting for two pairs and a stunning jewelry set she admired. Anaya suggested more items, but Jadwa declined politely, still adjusting to using his money.

"Shall we get some drinks?" Anaya proposed, and Jadwa agreed, suggesting a nearby cafe.

At the cafe, Jadwa ordered a raspberry peach iced tea, while Anaya opted for a taro milk tea with boba. They snapped photos of their drinks and enjoyed a peaceful moment together.

Jadwa cherished her time with Anaya it felt easy and natural, like spending time with a beloved sister. When they returned home, they found fewer cars in the driveway, indicating some guests had already departed.

******

As they approached the house, Imran emerged wearing a tan kaftan and cap, stopping Jadwa in her tracks. Anaya greeted him warmly, and Jadwa managed a small smile, her heart racing.

"Hello," she greeted him, taking a sip of her drink to steady herself.

"Hello," he responded, his gaze sweeping over her before asking, "How are you?"

"I'm good, how about you?" she replied, feeling a nervous flutter.

"Alhamdulillah," he replied, placing an arm around her shoulder and guiding her toward the car.

"There are still some men inside let's chat for a bit," he suggested, opening the car door for her.

Jadwa settled into the car, taking comfort in her drink as they conversed.

"You've got quite the sweet tooth," he remarked, watching her with amusement.

Jadwa nodded, enjoying her drink, finding it soothing amidst her nerves. "Is it that good?" he inquired, raising an eyebrow playfully taking the drink from her hand and took a sip directly from her straw.

Her stomach fluttered as she watched him, a moment of intimacy that made her heart race.

"It's really good," she murmured, her thoughts racing.

"It's too sweet!" he countered, teasing her lightly.

"Let the young judge," she bantered back, attempting to lighten the mood.

"Is that so?" he chuckled, pulling up to a quiet street and parking.

"Mhmm," she agreed softly, taking one last sip before setting her drink aside and turning to face him.

Imran leaned back, mirroring her movement. "Did you enjoy yourself today?" he asked.

"I did, although it was hard to decide," she confessed honestly.

"What was hard to decide?" he inquired curiously.

"The styles for my outfits," she explained. "But I'm happy with what I chose in the end," she added with satisfaction.

"That's good to hear," he nodded approvingly.

Jadwa tilted her head, practicing how to thank him in her mind. He leaned closer, their gazes locking.

"Are you tired? Should we head back?" he offered.

"I'm not tired at all. I want to stay here," she replied honestly.

Imran smiled, taking her left hand in his, his thumb brushing over her skin.

"Thank you so much," Jadwa said softly. "The clothes were amazing, and I really, really loved them," she expressed gratefully, excitement evident in her voice.

He watched her, his expression softening with her happiness. Her joy was infectious, and he found himself sharing in it.

"They're so pretty! I can't believe something so simple can look so beautiful. I can't wait to wear it on a special occasion," she rambled on, her enthusiasm contagious.

"Now I'm curious to see it on you," he admitted playfully, genuinely interested.

Jadwa continued to share details about each piece, her plans for Eid, the makeup she planned to do, and the sleepover they were planning with Anaya.

"So, there's a sleepover happening this Eid?" Imran asked, folding his arms and watching her with interest.

"Zarah and I were planning it Anaya doesn't even know yet," Jadwa explained honestly.

"Hmm," Imran hummed thoughtfully, observing her explanation.

"Ya Imran, we're going to be so bored and lonely without her this Eid, especially since the house will be empty," Jadwa pouted.

"You should have told me sooner," Imran frowned slightly, seeing her disappointment.

"Pleaseeee," Jadwa pleaded, fluttering her eyelashes at him with a pleading look.

He didn't want to spoil her excitement, especially since he hadn't seen her talk so much before, and they were making such good progress together.

"I'll think about it," he relented, and she sighed, removing her hand from his arm and placing it on her shoulder.

"You don't need to think about it," she urged, her tone almost desperate. She rolled her eyes and turned away, picking up her phone.

"Don't get angry, Madam you'll have your sleepover," he teased, turning her back towards him. "But it'll be at my place," he added with a wink, causing her to gasp audibly.

"Take me back home," she fanned herself, looking at him in disbelief. Imran chuckled and started the car.

"Seriously, Ya Imran, please!" she persisted, her eyes pleading with him.

He enjoyed teasing her, but she was too adorable, and he couldn't prolong it any longer.

"Who's that? Do I know him?" he teased, furrowing his brows.

"It's you! Ya Imran, Ya Moh, Ya Muhammad," she gestured, counting off on her fingers as she spoke.

"I only know Muhammad Imran, who's this 'Ya'?" he pretended to look around, causing Jadwa to palm her face in frustration.

"So, you want me to call you that?" she asked incredulously, giving him a look that suggested he couldn't be serious, as she counted off on her fingers.

"No, I don't want you to call me that," he replied with a chuckle.

"So?" she prompted.

"You should call me what wives call their husbands," he suggested, meeting her gaze squarely.

Jadwa's eyes widened. "No!" she protested, looking away.

"Then no," he shrugged.

Jadwa glanced at him and sighed, then suddenly began thinking of all the names wives typically use for their husbands.

"Some women call their husbands 'Malam' or 'Alhaji' or 'Mai Gida,'" she said seriously, barely suppressing her laughter as Imran turned his head quickly to give her an incredulous look.

"Which one do you want?" she asked with a straight face.

"Just stick with 'Ya'" he said, shaking his head as he drove through the gates to their house and parked.

"Baby? Habiby? Hayati? Babe?" she asked in a mock sweet voice, reaching for his hand. "Please?" she looked at him pleadingly.

He turned to face her, his expression softening as he chuckled, then raised an eyebrow, prompting her question.

"Say that again," he invited, the playful teasing leaving his eyes.

Jadwa smiled knowingly. "Will you allow it?" she inquired.

He nodded, and she gathered the courage to say it, biting her lip subconsciously.

"Don't do that," he gently scolded, lifting her chin with his thumb, releasing her lip from between her teeth.

She opened the door and looked at him, finding him distracted. "I'll call you that next time we meet, I promise," she said quickly, getting out of the car and giggling. "Thank you!" she waved, then walked away towards the house.

Imran sat back in the car, watching her as she walked into the house. She really knew how to get her way with him, trying to trick him, and he let her.

He left to pick up Ibrahim's son from Islamiyya, giving the girls more time together to spend.

[VII]

The days passed quickly. Hannan's wedding was set to take place only three days after the date Jadwa and Imran had decided for Jadwa's conveyance, making it less than a month away. The girls were up and ready very early on Eid day, cooking and preparing the house for possible guests. The guests included Ameerah's friends, Ammi's sister who was coming to stay with them until their parents returned, and possibly a few people from their dad's side of the family, family friends, Hannan's fiancé, and Zarah's friends.

After all the work they did in the kitchen, they left the preparation of the Ram meat to their cook and Ammi's sister, Hajje Amne, who decided to take over.

Jadwa's usual routine followed, but today was special because Hajje Amne overheard them talking about Imran coming to visit Jadwa. After they were done, they sat her down on the dorot to smoke her body with the body incense then after applied oil perfumes and her designer perfumes on her. Immediately after that, Jadwa brought out the dress Ameerah had chosen for her, one of the Atampas. Jadwa specifically tried on all the sewn clothes sent back by Grace. All of them were perfect, the fitting was amazing, and she nailed every single one of them.

Last night, Jadwa called Ameerah to her room and wore all of them one by one to help her decide which one was perfect for her to see him. They finally decided on a purple skirt and blouse. It was beautiful, with a sweetheart neckline, and the blouse was off-shoulder. Ameerah thought it was perfect for the first day of Eid since they weren't going anywhere. They picked out her jewelry and shoes, and she decided to get a silk press on the morning of Eid.

Jadwa now stood in front of the mirror, looking at the reflection of a girl with pin-straight hair cascading down to her waist. She let her fingers run through it, awed by her reflection. She knew exactly why she didn't go back to sleep after Fajr to straighten her full, long head of curls that took her several hours. It was him. She had mentioned wanting to straighten her hair, and he said he was curious to see her with it and he had mention loving tiny braids since he saw her with it at the Eid barbecue.
He sounded eager, away from his usual composed demeanor. He had asked her to do it, and that was exactly what she did, straighten her hair first then she'll braid it on the third day of Eid.

She applied her makeup—just concealer, filled her brows naturally, added mascara, a glowy blush, and a little powder did the magic for Jadwa. As she lined her lips and applied her gloss, Jadwa couldn't help but reminisce about the past days since he left. He called her twice a day religiously, once at noon and once before he went to sleep. They also had video calls randomly in the afternoon. Sleeping on the phone had become constant. How it happened, Jadwa didn't know, but it always ended up happening.

She got a lot more comfortable and bolder when they spoke. She was always telling him about her day, sending him random pictures, and he did the same sometimes. Flirting became the new normal between them. There was not a single moment they spent speaking casually, they were almost always flirting. Jadwa couldn't lie to herself even if she tried. The magnetic attraction and the new feelings she didn't even know she could physically feel had been her new discovery.

She hadn't met him since Hannan's engagement. After glamming up, she wore her dress. Besides the wavy cut on the edge of the blouse, no one could possibly tell it was a skirt and blouse, not a fitted gown. The fitting was out of this world; it perfectly framed her body, enhancing her small waist and unreal curves.

Jadwa had difficulties wearing her heels, so she left them for later and tied her small scarf into a thin wrap around her hair, almost looking like a hair band, letting her hair fall freely. She touched up her gloss and texted him Eid Mubarak. She knew he was in the mosque now, and anytime from now, he would arrive. So she used the remaining time to snap selfies and call Zarah to take her pictures.

Her sisters were already dressed. This Eid, maybe everyone was going big. They looked stunning. Hannan was wearing a sage green lace sewn into a fitted gown, and Zarah was wearing a baby blue Ankara sewn into a fitted dress. Ameerah, on the other hand, wore a beautiful silver beaded bubu dress and tied her scarf in a ture ka ga tsiya style.

Jadwa announced her presence in the living room with the sound of her Polaroid camera clicking.

Their jaws dropped, and they gasped, raining praises on her. Jadwa herself knew she looked insanely beautiful. She felt it.

Jadwa was equally taken aback by how beautiful all her sisters looked. She waved off the compliments. They snapped group pictures, and then Zarah took her special time to snap Jadwa so many pictures.

Jadwa was shocked by how beautiful the pictures turned out. The lighting was perfect, and the natural light only enhanced the glow on her skin.

In less than an hour, Imran sent her a text message telling her to come out he was here. Jadwa hoped he would come inside she didn't just dress up for nothing.

Jadwa peeped through the window. He was leaned against a black car, wearing an off-white Babban Riga. The embroidery on it caught Jadwa's eyes, something she had never paid attention to before. He was wearing his sunglasses, and his cap perfectly sat on his head.

Jadwa practically ran to her room and went to her sunglasses drawer, picking the sunglasses he gave her.

She wore her heels and went down, taking a few deep breaths to regain her composure before stepping out of the house. He was on his phone, but immediately he saw her, he put his hands in his pockets.

Jadwa wore the sunglasses and walked gracefully to him. His eyes didn't leave her for even a moment. She came closer, and he took off his glasses and put them in his pocket.

"Ya dai?" she asked, mimicking him.

"Dai dai," he answered, taking her in fully.

Jadwa waited for him to finish ogling her with his eyes, but it seemed like he wouldn't anytime soon. So she took off the glasses and put them on the top of her head.

"Are you done staring?" she asked, raising a questioning brow.

"No," he said, taking her hand and twirling her, making Jadwa laugh at him.

Jadwa's heart raced, but the excitement in her heart led her, not her mind, at that moment.

His hands went to the back of his neck. "God! You look so beautiful," he breathed out, bringing her close into a hug.

"Barka da Sallah," she said, her hand going around his neck.

Imran pulled back from the hug, still staring at her.

Jadwa couldn't help but laugh at his speechlessness. "I dressed up for you today," she said confidently.

Imran nodded, many times he couldn't count. "You are so beautiful," he said again.

"Thank you, I know," she said, taking her hands away from his neck.

"You look just as good, if not more," she complimented honestly, running her hands through her hair.

"Thank you," he appreciated, giving her a small smile.

"Let's go in. It's a bit sunny out here," she said.

"I just came to greet you, darling. I have to go back home for lunch," he looked at his watch.

Jadwa frowned but understood Eid was a busy day for everyone. "Say hi to the family first, at least," she said.

Imran agreed easily and followed her into the house. She felt his eyes on her throughout. She should be used to it by now, but she felt the nervousness and shyness creeping up. She had practiced her confidence for days because Ameerah told her the only way to have an upper hand in a marriage is to be confident, and Jadwa decided to blindly follow her advice.

Immediately they entered, they were met with Zarah, Hannan, and Ameerah, who was giving Jadwa 'the look.'

"Ina yini, Ya Imran," they all chorused.

"Lafiya lau, how are you? Anyi sallah lafiya?" he asked, sitting on the couch while Jadwa disappeared into the kitchen.

While she was gone, they conversed with Ameerah and Hannan, while Zarah only asked about Anaya.

"You should just move with Jadwa when she's leaving because I don't understand this obsession you and Lily have for each other," Ameerah said.

Zarah nodded aggressively. "Gladly!!!" she exclaimed as Jadwa came back with two maids behind her, her hands occupied with a large tray containing two large jugs of two different mocktails and cups while the maids followed with snacks and desserts.

"I am leaving now," he whispered to her when she sat back down.

Jadwa heard him, but there was no way she would allow him to leave without having anything.

"I made the drinks at least try it," she pressed, moving forward to pour him a fresh lychee blueberry mock tail she made herself.

He took a sip and turned his head to the sound of pictures Zarah was taking.

"You both look so good, MashaAllah," she gushed.

"Sit closer, I want to snap you as well," Ameerah said, and Jadwa straightened her back, adjusting her hair.

He came closer and put his hand around her waist, earning a teasing remark from Ameerah, which he purposely ignored. Jadwa posed for the pictures, holding hands in some, and in others, his hands were around her shoulders or her head was resting on him. Zarah and Hannan turned it into He took a sip and turned his head to the sound of pictures Zara was taking. "You both look so good, MashaAllah," she gushed.

"Sit closer. I want to snap you as well," Ameerah said, and Jadwa straightened her back, adjusting her hair.

He came closer and put his hand around her waist, earning a teasing from Ameerah which he purposely ignored. Jadwa posed for the pictures; they held hands in some, and in others, his hand was around her shoulders or her head was resting on him. Zarah and Hanan turned it into a mini photoshoot. Hanan took four Polaroids that came out perfect and handed them to Jadwa before dragging Ameerah and Zarah to the kitchen, leaving them alone.

Ameerah and Imran conversed a bit about their families and the little get-together she's hosting at her house while Imran enjoyed the mocktail. Mid-conversation with Ameerah, he turned to Jadwa and complimented her. "This is really good," he said, and she smiled, refilling his cup.

"Thank you," he said with a warm smile before turning back to Ameerah.

"Bye, I can't stand this oppression," Ameerah shook her head, walking away.

"Come here," he whispered into her ear, swerving her into his arms after Ameerah disappeared from their view.

Jadwa almost gasped at the action, just an inch away from being on him. "You did your hair," he said, running his fingers through it.

"Mhmm. I told you," she said, her voice only audible because of their close proximity.

"I really like it," he said, and she smiled in return.

"Thank you. I'm glad you do," she replied gladly.

Imran sighed, watching her, closing his eyes momentarily before getting up. Jadwa did the same. "I should leave now," he announced.

[VIII]

"I'll walk with you to the car," Jadwa said, setting the sunglasses she was holding on the couch.

"You still have them," he said, and she nodded.

"Of course. I wore them to show them off to you," she said as they walked out of the door and made their way to the car.

"Really?" he asked.

"Yeah, but you didn't even notice them," she frowned.

"They were the first thing I saw," he said, opening his car door and sitting in.

He had come with a different car today, not his regular G-Wagon. Jadwa took her time admiring it.

"Hmm," she said skeptically. "I believe you," she smiled when he gave her a look.

"You have such great taste in cars," she complimented.

"I do, in women too," he winked, and Jadwa threw her head back, laughing.

"Oh please," she said mid-laughter. "But you are right, you do," she raised her brows in agreement, earning another wink from him.

"Do you want to test it?" he asked, and she shook her head. "Next time, I will. But can I see more?" she asked, peeking into the car.

"Of course," he said, holding her hand and bringing her closer.
Jadwa's vision swam thanks to her heels, every step a precarious dance. Just when she considered giving up, Imran surprised her in a way that stole her breath.

With a smooth, practiced ease, he settled her onto his lap. The car vanished from her mind. Her heart pounded a frantic rhythm as she turned to face him, her eyes wide.

"Here," he said simply, "get a good look."

Jadwa scanned the scene, then returned her gaze to him. Her mind screamed at her to get up, but her body seemed to have a mind of its own.

Imran held her gaze, gently tucking a stray strand behind her ear, his touch lingering on her exposed skin.

Jadwa traced his path with her eyes, from her hair to her face, then down to her lips. He sucked in a breath, his gaze flickering away for a moment.

She wasn't oblivious to the effect she had on him. This constant push and pull, this delicious tension – she was done letting him have his way all the time.

"I think I should get going," he said, a hint of something in his voice. Jadwa met his gaze, a sly smile playing on her lips.

Silence. Just the intensity of their eyes locked in a silent battle.

"Will I see you tomorrow?" she finally asked, her voice husky, a hand tracing circles on the back of his neck.

"Up, Jadwa," he commanded, his eyes flashing a warning.

"You sat me down," she countered, raising an eyebrow, "and here I am, asking a question."

"Yes, you will," he sighed, a hint of exasperation lacing his voice. Jadwa reveled in it.

"Well then," she said, feigning deep thought, "I'll have to pick out the perfect outfit."

His eyes dropped to her dress, lingering for a beat. "Just... not something like this."

"Why not?" she challenged, a playful glint in her eyes.

Imran squeezed his eyes shut for a moment. "Why do you even ask?" he muttered, eyes still closed.

"I don't see the problem," she purred, watching his jaw clench as he opened his eyes.

"We'll discuss this later. Now get inside," he ordered, his voice firm.

"No, I want to know," she drawled, her voice laced with playful defiance.

Imran glared at her. "Don't be difficult, Jadwa. This is your chance," he said, his gaze unwavering.

"But I want to know!" she teased, her hands instinctively wrapping around his neck, pulling them closer.

Their faces were inches apart, his breath hot against her skin. With a swift movement, he gathered their legs and deposited them both back inside the car, slamming the door shut.

Jadwa gasped, momentarily stunned. What had she gotten herself into? His hands settled on her waist, adjusting her position as he leaned back.

"So," he murmured, a dangerous glint in his eyes, "what were we discussing again?"

Jadwa's carefully constructed facade crumbled. All the bravado she'd practiced evaporated. In that moment, a surge of anger towards Ameerah bubbled up.

"Yes, babe, I'm listening," he said, his voice laced with amusement. "You want to know why you shouldn't wear something like that where other men can see you?"

"Uh-huh," she mumbled, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm against her ribs.

"Because," he began, his voice dropping to a husky whisper, his hands sliding down her waist, "you should be a sight reserved for only me. The only one who should get to experience you like this, who should have these dreams about you..."

He pulled her impossibly closer, his touch sending shivers down her spine. Jadwa could barely breathe, her mind a tangled mess of desire and conflicting emotions.

"Should I tell you about them?" he teased, his voice a low rumble.

She shook her head vehemently. "No, please don't."

A satisfied smile played on his lips. "Good, because you don't want to know" he murmured, his voice husky with unspoken desires.

His eyes went to her body, the sound of her anklet grabbing his attention.

"Fix your dress," he said, his Adam's apple bobbing twice.

"Why?" she looked down to see her slit revealing more of her skin. "It's... I can't," she shifted on his body.

"Fuck," he cursed under his breath, but she heard him. "It's messing with my head," his eyes moved over her back, gazing down to where the slit revealed her skin, then back at her.

She felt a heat radiate through her body, her eyes darkening with desire. Their faces were close, his eyes on her lips, hers on his, their eyes meeting repeatedly.

Jadwa held his gaze as Imran's hand not on her waist moved her hair away from her face, swerving it to the other side.

His face came closer, and he kissed the tip of her nose, then the corner of her lips.

"Albi" she spoke, fulfilling her last promise to him. Her mind was clouded by his cologne. She couldn't think properly even if she tried. She wanted to use her brain, but it told her to pull away moments ago. Now, her body, mind, and brain all wanted to know what it would feel like — to be touched by him.

Like he did when he came to see after their Nikkah, or the day before Hanan's engagement when she wore the green dress, or just how she rested her head on his arms, or how he swerved her into his arms moments earlier in the house. Maybe even that would suffice, or a little more than that.

A wave of heat flooded Jadwa's body, her desire mirroring his. Their faces were mere inches apart, his eyes locked on her lips, hers mirrored his. Her gaze flickered down to his lips, then back to his eyes, her fingers instinctively reaching up to cradle the back of his head.

"Can I?" he asked, his voice a husky murmur, the question laced with a dangerous edge.

The moment her eyes landed on his lips again, he closed the distance between them, his lips meeting hers in a soft, testing kiss. It was a mere brush of their lips, a whisper of a promise.

Their first kiss.

She looked at him, and then he did it again. And again. And once more. Before he could pull away, Jadwa surprised him by initiating the next move, placing a small peck on his lips.

It wasn't a passionate or deep kiss until it was.

Before she could even blink, he was back, the kiss deepening with each pass. His touch ignited a fire within her, a yearning she couldn't ignore.

Imran's strong arms slid to Jadwa's lower back while hers moved, one to his neck and the other to his face. He deepened the kiss, softly and slowly, pulling her closer, even though she couldn't possibly get any closer. Jadwa clung to him, unable to kiss back, gasping at the sensation igniting in her body like a match lit in a dark room. She couldn't believe this was happening to her. She relished the feeling of his lips on hers, closing her eyes to savor the moment, his lips continuing their magic until he pulled back.

He pulled back with the little strength he could muster, letting her breathe. They looked at each other and simultaneously smiled, Jadwa quickly hiding her face in his chest.

[IX]

"Look at me," he murmured, his voice rough with emotion.

But Jadwa only burrowed deeper, her voice muffled against his shirt. "I need to go inside," she mumbled.

A soft chuckle rumbled in his chest. "You're the one clinging to me, love. And if I recall correctly, a few minutes ago you were the one refusing to leave."

Jadwa squeezed her eyes shut, the memory of her boldness making her cheeks burn even hotter. She reluctantly released her hold on him.

He gently lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. "So," he said, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes, "the chosen name is Albi?"

A shy smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Yes," she whispered.

He leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. "I like it," he murmured.

Jadwa was speechless, her mind a jumbled mess of emotions. She fidgeted with her fingers for a moment before finally pushing herself upright.

"I should see you tomorrow," he said, his voice gentle. He reached out and moved her hair from the side to now freely flowing on her back.

"InshaAllah," she replied, her voice barely a whisper.

He opened the car door, and as she stepped out, he grabbed her wrist gently. "Jadwa," he said, his voice serious. "Dress modestly... for tomorrow, please."

Jadwa met his gaze, a flicker of defiance sparking in her eyes. Then, a slow smile spread across her face. "I will," she responded.

She bid him goodbye, and he walked back into the house. She went straight to her room, avoiding all her sisters. She put her hands on her lips, still feeling his touch. She didn't know what had come over her. Why had she shamelessly done that? Why had she tried to be bold? Why? She kept questioning herself. Yet, she couldn't deny how much she liked it, the butterflies she still felt standing in front of the mirror.

The rest of the day passed in a blur. They welcomed a few family friends and entertained guests, but Jadwa's mind was nowhere near the conversations in the room. Her thoughts were elsewhere, attached to that morning, replaying the same scene, fixated on that one person.

He had texted her a few pictures of him and his family, to which she replied and sent hers with her sisters as well. He even called to ask her to send pictures of just herself, and she agreed. She spent an hour selecting them with Hanan, as she couldn't trust Ameerah anymore, and Zarah would always say all the pictures were pretty. They finally chose about six pictures and sent them to him. When he asked for more, she sent a few more of her favorites.

Seeing how they acted as if nothing had happened, Jadwa decided to do the same, matching his peacefulness.

Later that night, he called her as usual, and they went to bed early.

The next day, Jadwa got up and got ready along with Ameerah. The decorations were already set at Ameerah's house, and they were just getting dressed to arrive on time before the guests started showing up.

Jadwa wore her beige lace ensemble, a straight skirt paired with a blouse that reached her knees, cinched at the waist, and short sleeves. She did her makeup more glamorously than the day before, adding a bold red lip, dark kohl, and winged eyeliner. She had fallen in love with red lips ever since Ameerah had introduced her to the color. She tied her scarf in a simple style that crisscrossed at the front and pushed it back slightly, letting her ponytail out. After spraying her perfume, she draped her veil over one arm. She slipped into her heels and left her room to join the other girls, already dressed.

They had all done their makeup boldly, ready for the event since their sister-in-law was the host. They arrived at Ameerah's house, and as always, Ameerah had nailed everything to perfection. She was the best host, without fail. There was a mocktail bar, a dessert corner, an ice cream stand, cotton candy, popcorn, and snacks. There was also a large buffet.

Guests began arriving soon, and Jadwa mingled with many of them. Anaya, Fatima, Sadiq, Ibrahim and his son Khalifa all except Imran. Jadwa spent her time with Anaya and her sisters, snapping pictures and choosing the best to post. Jadwa and Anaya gushed over each other's photos from the previous day and today. Anaya, truly stunning, wore a flared gown and had her scarf tied in a stylish ture ka ga tsiya.

Jadwa adjusted her veil and was about to enter the house when she received a message on her phone. She turned around and saw Imran with a group of men. She gave him a warm smile, which he returned. When he texted her to meet him in the house, she followed him inside.

Muhammad Imran walked towards where Ameerah was hosting the Eid get-together. He spotted Jadwa immediately. She was wearing the beige lace she had mentioned, a choice he had to admit was beautiful. It looked stunning on her fair skin. Her eyes sparkled under the sunset, and her hair swung each time she turned or laughed. She looked beautiful, delicate, and happy. Her lips, stained with that deep red, nearly drove him mad, but he loved it; it suited her perfectly.

Standing with Ibrahim and some men,relatives from Ameerah's side, some not Imran moved towards Jadwa, meeting her halfway. At first, he found no problem with her attire, but as she came closer, he noticed the slits on the sides of her skirt and the way her hair was revealed. He greeted her with a hug and asked her to walk with him into the house.

They walked quietly, exchanging greetings. One look at her up close brought back all the events of yesterday for Imran. It was almost an out-of-body experience when he went back home, barely believing what had happened. Not just his actions, but hers. How she melted in his arms, how she placed her lips on his, and how she spoke to him. It was like seeing a new side of her, one that fueled his imagination—the seductive tone she used, the little sounds she made when he kissed her. He pushed the thought away forcefully and turned to her.

"Are you enjoying your time?" he asked, his hands in his pockets.

"Yes, I really like it," she replied, looking around. "Ameerah is always the best at hosting."

He nodded in agreement. "She is. I just arrived, I was caught up in some work."

"Oh, I lost hope. I thought you weren't coming at all," she said, adjusting her veil.

"It does look really good on you," he said, pointing at her clothes.

"Right?" She smiled, looking up at him courageously.

"Sosai (very much)," he said, taking in the deep shade of red on her lips as she blushed.

"Thanks to you," she said, warming his heart.

But her hair being out and the two long slits on the sides of her skirt did something to him, it robbed off on him in a way he didn't like. he decided to address later.

"Have you eaten?" she asked.

"Not yet, but I'm about to, with friends," he replied.

"You should it's getting late," she said.

"Alright, let me know when you're leaving. I'll drop you off at home," he said caressing her face gently and pecking her cheek.

"Okay," she blushed away and she agreed easily. He could still see the shyness in her eyes and the lingering effects of yesterday as she tried to mask them.

They chatted more as they walked back to where they had been. He watched her leave his view, her graceful walk embodying elegance and beauty.

[X]

Muhammad Imran shook off the thought and sat alone, making a work call while Ibrahim chatted with friends. The food in front of him looked appetizing. As he was on his call, he saw Jadwa walking towards the group of men Ameerah stood with, who he could tell were Ameerah's other side of the family. He watched her hand Ameerah a key, say something to the group, smile, and then walk away into the house.
Not thinking much about it, he returned to his phone call.

Finishing his call, he ate his food while scrolling through Instagram. He saw the posts Jadwa's sisters had made yesterday and today, as well as Anaya's. They were pictures of her from yesterday in that purple outfit with the tiny scarf on her head looking almost like a headband and her hair cascading down to her waist. They even posted pictures of him and her together.

He was about to check her post when Ibrahim conversing with a really young guy. The conversation looked heated before Ibrahim tapped the guy's shoulder and came over, extinguishing his cigar on an ashtray and sitting opposite Imran.

"What happened?" Imran asked taking a sip of his drink.

"Nothing" Ibrahim said laughing it off.

"Poor boy what did he do?" Imran asked knowing damn well it must have been something.

"I overheard him talking about your wife, but don't worry, I put him in his place," Ibrahim said, sipping a cold lemonade.

Imran's appetite vanished, replaced by a rush of an emotion he desperately wanted to suppress.

"What did he say?" Imran asked seriously.

"They're just young guys distracted by a woman's beauty. I'm sure the one desperately asking for her number didn't know she was married," Ibrahim narrated. "That's all," he shrugged, seeing the tight look on Imran's face, waiting to hear more.

"Oh, you want to hear exactly what they said? Are you sure you can handle it with the way you're looking at me? Honestly, they didn't say anything bad about her. And I warned them properly not to do that again about any woman, married or not," Ibrahim said.

Imran was known as a calm man who rarely lost his temper, his ability to control himself was on another level but his feelings for Jadwa were stronger than any control he had over himself.

Imran picked his phone back up, anger coursing through him. He was a territorial man and couldn't handle his jealousy, a new emotion he only felt when he met Jadwa. Even in past relationships, nothing had ever made him care enough to feel jealous—until now.

Pushing away the plate, the sight of the food nauseated him. He got up, ignoring Ibrahim, and walked away from the seat. He watched Jadwa's story, which included pictures of her, her sisters, and herself from yesterday.

The thought of men, strange men, or any man looking at these pictures and fantasizing about her or admiring her felt sharper and deeper than a cut from a sword. He called her immediately, and she picked up on the third ring.

"Hello?" she said cheerfully, with the noise of girls in the background.

"Move away from where you are. I want to talk to you," he said seriously.

"Okay, just give me a second," she said, and he heard her walking away and shutting a door.

There was only silence now. "I can hear you," she said.

"Listen, Jadwa, those pictures of you that everyone posted, and you yourself, I want them deleted now," he said, hearing only silence.

"My Eid pictures?" she asked, and he scoffed silently.

"Yes, every single one of them," he said sternly.

"But why? What happened?" she asked, and Imran leaned forward on the railing.

"Do I need a reason? Can't you see what you're wearing?" he said, and he heard her chuckle.

She laughed. This was funny to her. She didn't take him seriously.

"I am sorry. I'll delete the ones from yesterday," she said.

"Yesterday's, today's, yours, and everyone else's that posted you," he responded. "Do it now. I don't want to repeat myself, Jadwa," he said seriously and ended the call.

Ibrahim walked up to him tapping his shoulder making him turn around.

"Man, don't tell me you just called and scolded the poor girl. What did she do?" Ibrahim asked seriously.

"I did not. I just asked her to do something," Imran said plainly, walking back to the chair to sit down.

Ibrahim could only nod. He had overheard the conversation from where he sat but decided not to address it now. He utterly regretted telling Imran, not realizing his friend could get jealous to the point of clenching his teeth so hard his jaw might break.

A few minutes later, Imran refreshed his feed and saw the stories were still up. She had deleted the ones from yesterday, and the pictures of her alone from today. But hers with her sisters and his sister were still up.

"I'm coming, Ibrahim," he said, getting up immediately and walking into the house, not giving his friend a chance to even try and stop him.
Ibrahim sighed in frustration. It was Imran, and he knew better than to try to talk him out of anything, especially when blinded by rage.

Entering the house, Imran saw a teenage girl and asked her to call Jadwa for him.

He sat leaning his head back, attempting to cool the heat of temper he felt through him, he closed his eyes, trying to keep his composure intact.

Minutes later, The door twisted open, and she walked into the room. Her perfume greeted him first before anything else making everything worsen, she walked gently to his side seating herself close to him.

"Na'am, you sent for me," she said, softly.

"I asked you to do something," he said straightforwardly, the fury he felt previously was now warming places they hadn't touched before.

"Yeah, I did what you asked me to," she shrugged.

"You did not." He narrowed his gaze at her, "take them down now," he ordered, watching her eyes widen as she grasped the seriousness of his tone. The steel that backed his words.

With confusion clouding her face, Jadwa asked, "what's wrong with what I'm wearing now?" She made a show of splaying her hands open to let him see what she was wearing.

"Does anything need to be wrong with it?" he countered, pinning his gaze at her, the look in his eyes scorching.

She looked at him, speechless. It did nothing but fuel his already stoked rage.

"The fact that you don't see anything wrong with it coming out like this, to a mixed gathering, your hair out like this, is a huge problem!" he exclaimed, his voice controlled but far from gentle.

She saw the anger in his eyes, the way her face fell, and how her eyes saddened as he spoke.
Jadwa listened carefully, speechless and unable to respond.

She scooted closer, holding his hands. "Albi, I am sorry. Did something happen? Why are you upset?" she asked, caressing his hands.

Imran looked down at her. "Can we let this slide?" she pleaded, giving him her puppy eyes. "Please... I can't tell everyone that posted me to take down my pictures," she said in a tone that usually got her what she wanted, even from him.

today, her fingers on his skin only intensified his rage. Her voice, her eyes, and her dismissive attitude toward his words infuriated him.

He moved her hand from his hold and looked at her.

"This is the first, and it better be the last time I talk to you seriously about something and you do this!" he said, referencing her attempt to talk him out of it. "I have very little tolerance for it..." he warned, standing up.

Jadwa sat there, paralyzed, unable to speak a word.

"Get your things ready, we are leaving now," he said, shutting the door behind him.

Imran walked out, his frustration evident. Ameerah, having witnessed his demeanor, approached him cautiously her face filled with fear.

"Is everything alright?" she asked.

Imran looked at her, his anger simmering just below the surface. "Everything's fine," he replied curtly, not wanting to discuss it further.

Without sparing her another glance, he walked away.

10 CHAPTERS!!!!!
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