"When two souls connect unexpectedly, a friendship blooms, bringing warmth and light to both hearts."

~ Unknown

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Amira looked at Ali as the car stopped outside the mall. What were they doing here? She looked at him questioningly who just got out of the car. Amira sat there until the passenger door opened. She saw Ali with his all time stern look gazing at her. She got out of the car. He walked in and she timidly followed him. Amira followed Ali into the bustling mall, her eyes darting around in awe at the colorful displays and the vibrant atmosphere. She noticed how confident and composed Ali appeared, walking with purpose through the crowds. It was a stark contrast to her own nervousness and uncertainty.

As they walked deeper into the mall, Amira couldn't help but steal glances at Ali. She had rarely seen this side of him, a side that seemed more approachable and caring. It intrigued her, and she couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope in her heart. Ali led her to a clothing store, and Amira found herself surrounded by racks of beautiful garments. She hesitated, unsure of what to do or where to start. Looking at her, Ali sensed her hesitation.

"Pick out something you like" he said with his voice being gentle and cold at the same time.

"Wow. You both here?" They looked in the direction of the approaching voice to see Raiyyan and Haya walking towards them. Ali rolled his eyes at the teasing smile of Raiyyan.

"Haya, why don't you both continue shopping. I have some work with Raiyyan!"

"You have only 5 minutes, bhai. Your bestie has to help me with my dresses! He promised me that he will give me a complete treat and I am sure you can help Amira better with her dresses than I could!" Ali rolled his eyes at the last sentence. She was doing the same work her husband loves. TEASING HIM! Amira looked at Haya with wide eyes. No words escaped her mouth.

Haya, sensing the brief moment of hesitation from Amira, stepped forward with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Amira. We'll make sure you find the perfect outfits. And who knows, maybe Bhai will surprise us all with his awful fashion sense!" Raiyyan chuckled, joining in on the friendly banter. "Oh, don't worry, Amira. Ali here might have a hidden talent for fashion. We'll find out soon enough!" Amira looked at Ali meekly who was glaring at Raiyyan. Ali let out an audible sigh.

With that, Ali and Raiyyan excused themselves, leaving Amira and Haya alone in the store. Amira couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. She had never been one to focus much on fashion or shopping, but with Haya's support and guidance, she was determined to make the most of the opportunity. Haya, being the fashion enthusiast she was, took the lead and started browsing through the racks of clothes. She picked out a few outfits that caught her eye and handed them to Amira, encouraging her to try them on. As Amira entered the fitting room, she couldn't help but feel a surge of nervousness. She stood in front of the mirror, examining herself in the different outfits. Haya's voice echoed from outside, offering kind words of encouragement and suggestions.

"Amira, that color suits you so well! You should definitely consider it." Haya's voice was filled with genuine excitement. Amira mustered up the courage and tried on each outfit, stepping out of the fitting room to show Haya. With each new ensemble, she gained a bit more confidence, realizing that fashion was not just about appearances but also a way to express oneself. Haya, being the supportive friend she was, offered honest feedback and helped Amira choose the outfits that suited her best. They laughed and shared stories, turning the shopping experience into a memorable bonding moment. Those few minutes turned out to be a new part of a new friendship.

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Ali and Raiyyan had found a nearby coffee shop and sat down at a table. Raiyyan couldn't contain his amusement, knowing that Ali was slightly out of his comfort zone.

"So, Ali, how does it feel to be dragged into the world of shopping?" Raiyyan teased, sipping his coffee. Ali rolled his eyes while taking a sip. "I am doing this for dad. His daughter in law should have a standard! She's gonna go to university. I don't want anyone to point at dad!"

"If she's uncle's daughter in law then she's your wife!" Ali ignored his remark so Raiyyan continued. "Uncle can't be the only reason. Ali, you surely are doing it for yourself too. You're just not realizing it."

Ali shook his head, a glint in his eyes. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Raiyyan. I'm just here to make sure that dad's reputation is not harmed. It's not for her or me or us! There is no US!" Raiyyan looked at him with slight anger at his words.

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Amira wore a red, halfways simple saree and came out, wanting to know Haya's opinion. She didn't even get the hint in her mind that the boys could be there. Amira stood still seeing Ali standing in front of her, looking at her deeply. He found himself at a loss for words seeing her in his favorite color.

"You look amazing, Amira" Haya shrieked.

"You look fantabulous, Amira" Raiyyan had a touch of genuine admiration in his voice. Ali frowned at Raiyyan while a shy smile played on her lips as she thanked them, feeling a surge of confidence.

"Did you both buy everything needed?" Ali was plainly looking at Haya who nodded yes.

"Now when you both are already here, I guess Amira also could need a proper glow up and pampering session. I mean I have appointments and I am sure the salon workers won't mind one turning two!" Ali nodded at her while Amira frowned. Haya grinned at Ali. Ali glanced at Amira, noticing the slight frown on her face. Raiyyan and Haya exchanged knowing glances, seeing the subtle shift in dynamics between Ali and Amira. They could sense that something was changing, and they were hopeful that it would lead to a deeper connection between the two.

Together, the four of them made their way to the salon. Amira couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement as she imagined the possibility of a complete transformation but also a sense of nervousness since she never went to a salon. The salon staff greeted them warmly, ready to pamper and beautify Amira to her heart's content. As the beautician worked her magic, Amira allowed herself to relax and enjoy the experience. She closed her eyes, feeling the gentle touch of skilled hands on her skin, the soothing music in the background, and the blissful ambiance of the salon. It was a moment of pure indulgence and self-care.

Ali sat nearby, observing the transformation taking place. He tried to deny the subtle change in his perception of Amira. Raiyyan was busy in telling the stylist on what to do and what not, irritating the stylist and Haya. Hours passed, and when Amira finally opened her eyes, she couldn't believe the reflection staring back at her in the mirror. Her hair was styled beautifully, her skin glowed, and her eyes sparkled with a newfound confidence. It was as if she had stepped into a new version of herself. Amira looked at herself, feeling delighted. Ali had cleared all of the bills just before they were about to walk out.

"Bhai. Can I ask you for one more thing?" Haya looked at Ali just as he was loading his car. Raiyyan was a bit back with Amira.

"Do you have to ask?"

"Can I take Amira with myself tonight?" Ali looked confused at her. According to their timings, Haya and Raiyyan planned to go on their date.

"Where? Aren't you and Raiyyan going on your date?" Haya smiled plainly.

"I want to go on a date with Amira. Raiyyan and I can go on another time. There are plenty of dates we went to. It would be her first, which she expects you to take her on. I can't force you bhai, but I can help her feel good by going with her on a sister's night out. If you allow, obviously!" Ali looked at her and nodded. Haya walked off.

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Haya and Amira sat there. Haya was in a blue dress while Amira was wearing the red saree.

"Excuse me. Is this place still available?" Amira's eyes widened in surprise as she saw Ali and Raiyyan standing before them, dressed up for a date. Confusion and a hint of disappointment flickered in her eyes. She hadn't expected Ali to join them, especially after Haya's request. Meanwhile, Haya wore a knowing smile, sensing that something was about to change. Ali looked at Amira, his gaze softening as he took in her expression. He cleared his throat, realizing the impact his decision had on her. "I... I thought it would be better if we all went together," he said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Raiyyan chimed in, his playful grin evident. "Yeah, I thought it would be fun to have a double date. What do you say, ladies?" Amira glanced at Haya, searching for some guidance. Haya's eyes twinkled with excitement, silently encouraging Amira to give it a chance. Taking a deep breath, Amira nodded, a mix of apprehension and curiosity swirling within her.

Throughout the evening, numerous conversations took place. Raiyyan and Haya played their part, effortlessly bringing fun and lightheartedness to the evening. They shared stories, teased each other, and created a comfortable atmosphere that allowed Ali and Amira to let their guards down. The drive back home remained silent with new emotions lingering in the air.

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Diary Entry - [04.09.23]

Dear Diary,

This day felt as if I entered a new life. It unfolded in ways I never even dreamt of. Ali for the first time probably talked to me directly. He cared about my studies, without calling me a burden. He gave me a share in his account. Acknowledged me as Amira Ali Akhtar. It felt like a dream that the person, who doesn't even see me, was now using my name with his. If I wouldn't be shocked, I would probably be crying. Raiyyan bhai's appearance confused us but their care was comforting. I did need some things from the mall, but I didn't want to tell Ali. What if he thought that I am taking advantage of him being nice to him and tagged me as a burden?

When we stopped in front of the mall, I was shocked. I never visited this one. It was one of the most expensive ones. I looked at Ali who just went out. I was sure he needed something but he invited me out. Some senses told me, he's here for me. But how would he know if I need things? What started as a simple shopping expedition transformed into an unexpected day. Haya bhabhi, with her enthusiasm, guided me through the racks, helping me choose outfits that I never thought I'd wear. I was confused if she had been choosing for herself or for me. That saree was looking beautiful but I was sure that Ali would deny it. I wore it only for Haya Bhabhi. I was shocked to see him there with bhai and bhabhi. He was looking at me differently. I could only wonder what his eyes were telling. I wasn't sure though. They didn't even let me change.

Haya bhabhi came up with the idea of the salon and I was shocked. I didn't want to overburden Ali. Was his acceptance for me or bhabhi? I don't know. But the time in the salon was relaxing. The pampering session unfolded like a dream, a moment of indulgence and self-care. The stylist's skilled hands worked their magic, transforming my appearance and, in some inexplicable way, my perception of myself. As I looked in the mirror, the reflection staring back was a version I hadn't met before. The styled hair, the glowing skin – it was like a canvas painted with newfound confidence. I couldn't help but feel a sense of delight, a subtle acknowledgment that change can be beautiful.

However, in the midst of this metamorphosis, a complex dance of emotions played out. Ali's reserved gaze held a mixture of resistance and acknowledgment. What does this transformation mean? Is it merely a superficial change, or does it signify something deeper? The joint account, the salon session – subtle gestures that speak louder than words. The unspoken tension between Ali and me remains, leaving me to navigate uncharted territories. Not to speak of the date. Neither of us was probably expecting what went down that night.

Their arrival was just the start of the night.  I couldn't glance at him without the blush creeping up my cheeks. He was sitting in front of me and I felt his gaze on me. Raiyyan bhai ordered drinks for all of us. I insisted on water but Ali's voice cut mine off and I was brought a mocktail. I don't drink anything with sugar in it, considering I am fat. I have to lose weight, but I didn't want to talk against Ali, igniting his anger. As we sat there, the boys ordered food. Ali asked me if I wanted anything specific but I denied taking anything. Raiyyan Bhai was mostly talking to me and bhabhi with Ali. That was only until Haya Bhabhi and Raiyyan Bhai went to another table, leaving Ali and me alone...

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