I woke up with a smile on my face, my mind filled with the enchanting scenes from the previous night. As I rose from my bed, a melodious tune danced in my thoughts, guiding my steps towards the shower. Lost in my own world, I was suddenly interrupted by my mother's voice echoing through the bathroom door.

"Honey, you'll have to skip school today or come home early," she whispered, her words muffled by the running water and my lathered shampoo.

"What? Why?" I exclaimed,, my voice carrying over the sound of the shower.

"Finish up quickly and come out. I'll explain everything," she responded, her voice fading into silence as she departed, leaving me to ponder the mysteries that awaited me beyond the bathroom door.

I hurriedly rinsed off the remaining suds and stepped out of the shower, my curiosity piqued by my mother's cryptic message. Wrapping myself in a towel, I made my way to the living room where my mom was waiting, not before changing into proper clothes ,a serious expression on her face.

"What's going on, Mom?" I asked, my voice filled with anticipation.

She motioned for me to sit down beside her, and with a sigh, she began to explain.

"Aariz's parents wants to meet you"

"Why is that?" I responded, feeling a bit unsure about where this conversation was headed.

There was a pause for a few moment

"Mumma, why do Aariz's parents want to see me?" I asked again, my voice betraying a mix of confusion and apprehension. Deep down, I had an inkling of what she meant, but I needed her to be clear.

She looked at me with a gentle smile, her eyes filled with a mother's understanding. "Honey, they have liked you since you were a baby," she replied, her words carrying a hint of nostalgia.

My hands began to tremble, and I quickly clasped them together, hoping to hide my nervousness. I wanted to ask her why they liked me, why they wanted to meet me, but the words caught in my throat.

Taking a deep breath, I gathered my courage and looked into my mother's eyes. "Mumma, please be clear. Why do they like me? Why do they want to see me?" I asked, my voice filled with a mixture of anticipation and fear.

As I sat there, waiting for my mother's response, my heart raced with anticipation. I could feel the weight of her words hanging in the air, waiting to be spoken.

With a gentle sigh, my mother reached out and placed a comforting hand on mine. "Sweetheart, Aariz's parents have always admired your kindness and genuine nature. They've watched you grow up, and they see the wonderful person you've become."

Her words washed over me, filling me with a mix of gratitude and nervousness. I had always tried to be kind and genuine, but to know that Aariz's parents had noticed and appreciated it was both humbling and scary at the same time.

"They want to see you because they believe you can have special connection with Aariz," my mother continued, her voice filled with warmth. "They think you two would make a great pair, and they want to get to know you better."

As her words echoed in my ears, I couldn't believe it. I felt a mix of panic and uncertainty.

Doubt crept in, intertwining with the memories of Jake and our love.. Thoughts raced through my head "I..I couldn't I cant my mind started to race with all the what ifs Jake, the date , our love , I couldn't .. like the world was coming to an end."

I was speechless, unable to find the right words to express how I felt. How could I possibly forge a connection with Aariz? The weight of the decision felt like the end of the world, leaving me numb and unable to utter a single word. A whirlwind of emotions engulfed me. It was as if time stood still.

I took a deep breath, trying to gather my composure. The weight of the decision loomed over me , like a dark cloud casting a shadow on my heart.

With trembling hands, I finally found the strength to speak, "I... I appreciate their belief in me, but I can't.. Mumma , I'm too young for this and I don't even know or like him"

"Is it because of Jake?" she asks, her gaze fixed on me, her eyes filled with curiosity.

"Sara, I really want us to have an open and honest conversation. I can sense that you're hiding something, and I have a feeling it's about Jake, isn't it?"

"Its not just about him , I'm too young for all this and yeah He's been there for me through thick and thin, and our connection is something I can't simply let go of."

The room fell silent, the air heavy with tension. She looked at me, her eyes filled with disappointment and confusion. But the I knew deep down that I had to follow my heart, even if it meant facing the consequences.

"Sarah I want you to give it a try, I'm not getting you married right away, we know , they know you have to complete your studies and Aariz is a nice guy just meet him once, for me , for us , please " she says putting a hand on my cheek.

"But I can't force myself into something that doesn't feel right mumma. I want you to understand."

"I'm just telling you to meet them, you can't listen to your mumma for once?" She replies with a hope in her eyes.

My warm expression fading, I nodded slowly.

"I appreciate your honesty, sweetheart," she responded gently, planting a soft kiss on my forehead as she dismissed the topic.

After our conversation, I didn't have the slightest desire to have breakfast. It felt as if my appetite had vanished completely. I made my way upstairs and collapsed onto my bed, lying on my back. I buried my face into the pillow, letting the tears flow freely. I cried until my eyes were dry, releasing all the emotions that had built up inside me.

As I laid there, my emotions pouring out, I took a deep breath and slowly sat up. I wiped away the tears from my cheeks and looked around my room, searching for something to bring me comfort. My eyes landed on a photo of Uzma and I .I realised that I needed her support now more than ever.

I reached for my phone and sent a message to her, pouring out my heart and sharing the pain I was feeling. Almost instantly, she messaged back

"Hang on I'm on my way" love and encouragement flooded in. It was a reminder that I wasn't alone in this journey, and that there were people who cared about me deeply.

I sent Jake a text, letting him know that I wouldn't be able to make it to school today due to some personal family matters. I kept it vague, not going into too much detail, but making sure he understood that it was something important.

Feeling a renewed sense of strength, I decided to take the day for myself. I put on my favorite cozy clothes, made a cup of tea, and settled into a comfortable spot by the window. With a book in hand, I allowed myself to get lost in its pages, finding solace in the fictional world and temporarily escaping from my own troubles.

Though the pain was still there, I knew that I had taken the first steps towards healing. With their support to the solace of my own company, and the passage of time, I would find the strength to move forward and embrace a brighter tomorrow.

I noticed a few of his replies in the notifications, saying

"I miss you, bub"

"The day is so boring without you."

I didn't really feel like responding, so I decided not to open the message.

I was sitting there, lost in my thoughts, when Uzma burst into the room. "Heyy, how are youu?" she exclaimed, entering with a sense of urgency. Without hesitation, I found myself breaking down once again, crying uncontrollably in her comforting embrace.

"Heyy, shh.. everything will be alright", Uzma gently hushed me, assuring me.

"innallaha ma as sabireen"
Surely, Allah is with those that are patient

Her words brought a glimmer of hope amidst the pain. It was a reminder that I had someone by my side who cared deeply for me and was there to support me through the tough times.

Jakes pov

Something didn't feel quite right, and I was missing her. It seemed like she was also used to being around. The whole day at school felt dull, and I was lost in my thoughts. I kept checking your phone, hoping for her replies, but there were none.

Feeling the need for a change, I thought about skipping class. I made my way to the locker room and retrieved the journal that Sarah had given me. Seeking solace, I searched for a quiet and empty classroom on the second floor.

As I walked through the corridor, I noticed that there were few students around. Determined to find a peaceful spot, I decided to head to the empty auditorium. Stepping inside, memories of Sarah's performance in the Romeo and Juliet scene with Neil stirred up a pang of jealousy within me. Pushing those emotions aside, I opened my journal and began pouring my heart onto the pages.

"I..I have so many words soo many things to pour down here I think my ink will stop and the words will keep coming but let's start with the love of my life . I miss you soo fucking much Sarah . I'm so attracted to you and it's not just your face that anybody would be privileged to look at. No its not just that it's your smile when someone references a movie or book you know it's your eyes squinting when you don't understand something , it's your hair that sometimes has a small piece sticking out if your hijab urging me to tuck it in it's the way that you speak to Laiba grinning ear to ear and forgetting I'm here. it's the way you look cute with blushed cheeks its everything God it's every thing.. but your face is a pretty nice benefit too."

After closing my journal, I sent her a quick message informing her that I was concerned for her and requested her to respond as soon as possible. It was already break time, and I entered the cafeteria by myself only to find Neal and Liam sitting with Isa and Rebecca. I pulled up a chair and took a seat with them.

As I took a seat with Neal and Liam, I noticed that things were a bit awkward. They didn't say a word to me, and it seemed like they were avoiding me.

This made me feel a bit anxious, but I didn't want to overthink it. I remained quiet for a while, but eventually I decided to break the silence.

I turned to Isa and asked, "Hey, how was your weekend?"

Isa looked at me and smiled before responding, "It was great! I spent the whole weekend reading a new book that I bought. What about you?"

As the conversation continued, I noticed that Neal and Liam were behaving a bit strangely.

Instead of joining the conversation, they seemed to be avoiding him and ignoring his remarks.

It was like they were having a private conversation among themselves and were intentionally trying to shut me out.

I was confused and a little hurt by this behavior, but I didn't want to make things awkward by calling them out.

So decided to just go along with the conversation and see what happens.

Despite the awkwardness, I decided to stay with them

As the conversation continued, I noticed Neal and Liam were still behaving strangely.

They kept looking at me and making snarky comments about my responses, but they refused to engage with me directly.

After a while, I was tired of feeling left out and decided to confront them.

"Hey guys, is something wrong? You've been acting weird for the past few minutes, and it's making me feel like you're not interested in including me in the conversation."

"Dude don't act as if you don't know anything, Because of Sarah you have forgotten us completely and now you ask us whats wrong" Neil replied.

"What do you mean because of Sarah?" I asked, confused by his reply.

Liam shrugged, "Well you've been so busy with her this past week, you've been ignoring us."

I was taken aback. He had no idea that they had felt neglected because of my relationship with her .

"Oh, um well... I guess... you're right,"I sheepishly admitted. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to ignore you guys. I have just been really caught up with her ."

"You haven't been coming to any of the parties lately," Neil said, sounding irritated.

I was again taken aback. I had no idea that my friends had been throwing parties without me. but I didn't want to make a big deal out of it.

"Oh, yeah, I guess I've just been busy with Sarah,"I responded trying to sound casual, but I couldn't help feeling guilty for neglecting them since I started dating .

I tried to make sense of the situation, when Liam rolled his eyes and blurted out, "It's not just the parties you've been ignoring us at, you haven't even been hanging out with us during lunch! You're always with Sarah."

I felt hurt and embarrassed by Liam's words. I had no idea they felt neglected by me

"Well, I'm sorry, but Sarah and I have been spending a lot of time together, and I know you guys aren't the biggest fans of her." I said, unable to hide the hurt in my voice.

The argument went on for a while, and Eventually, I got tired of the fight and decided to leave, hoping that things would cool down later.
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Sarahs  pov

As the time neared for Aariz's parents to visit, I felt a mixture of emotions, including nervousness and sadness. I couldn't help but feel as if I was already betraying Jake with my actions.Uzma was there to support me, but I wasn't ready to face the reality yet. I wasn't ready to let go of Jake or the feelings I had for him. It was all too much to handle at once.

As the moment of their arrival came closer, I felt increasingly anxious and nervous. My heart was beating fast and my palms were sweating as I tried to prepare myself .

Suddenly, Uzma spoke up and asked, "Sara, are you okay? You look like you're about to have a panic attack."

I was brought out of my thoughts by Uzma's voice and realized that she was right. I was so caught up in my feelings for Jake and the pressure of meeting his parents that I was starting to spiral.

I took a deep breath to try to calm myself down. She was right - I was getting way too worked up about this meeting.

"I'm fine," I said, trying to seem more confident than I felt. "It's just that I'm not ready for this"

I looked up to see Uzma still staring at me. "Are you sure you're okay?" She asked with genuine concern.

I nodded and managed a smile, but I knew that she saw right through me.

Uzma sighed and got up from her chair. "Let me make you a cup of coffee," she said, walking down the kitchen.

I felt lucky to have such a thoughtful friend like her.

"That would be great, Uzma," I said with a smile before turning to continue getting ready Aariz parents' arrival. Even though I wasn't quite ready emotionally, I knew I had to put on a presentable appearance.

Little did I know that this cup of coffee and Uzma's soothing presence would be the perfect antidote to my growing anxiety.

As I took a sip on and let the warmth fill my body, I found myself relaxing.

My heart rate began to slow down and my breathing evened out. I realized that Uzma had made exactly what I needed.

She sat down next to me and put her arm around my shoulder. "You're gonna be fine," she said gently, as if she could read my mind.

I nodded. "I know, Uzma," I said with shaky voice.

As I finished my coffee, it was time to set aside my worries and shift my focus towards what lay ahead. Uzma guided me to the living room where Aariz's parents were waiting. The moment I walked in, I couldn't bring myself to meet anyone's gaze. My hands trembled, and I felt like I might stumble at any moment.

Uzma looked over at me and gave a small nod. I felt my stomach churn with nerves, but I tried not to show it and instead smiled at them, trying to appear confident and welcoming.

His parents looked at me for a moment and then the father spoke up, "Nice to finally meet you, Sara, you've grown up into a beautiful woman . "Azrah has spoken quite highly of you."

I felt my face flush with embarrassment as I fumbled for a reply. "Thank you, it's nice to meet you, too. Dad has told me a lot about you both."

As my mom gently guided me to sit beside Aariz's mother, my hands grew sweaty and my mind went blank . Jake was the only thing on my mind, and I struggled to focus on anything else. The feelings I had for Jake were overwhelming and I felt lost without him. I wanted to be with him and I needed his support, but I didn't know how to tell him what was on my mind and what was happening with me. My thoughts kept circling around the idea of being with him and I just couldn't think of anything else.

I struggled to control my thoughts, I found myself growing more and more anxious.

I knew I had to be polite and make a good impression, but my mind was filled with Jake's face and I couldn't stop thinking about him.

While we sat down his mother, she speaks up , "I always wished for a daughter, and you fulfilled that wish for me since you were a baby."

I felt my face flush with embarrassment and didn't know how to respond, but Mumma spoke up and said, "Oh yes, she has always wanted a daughter, and you were always her little princess."

I looked over at Aariz's mother, trying to smile and appear calm despite my growing embarrassment.

I tried to take deep breaths and focus on the conversation, but my mind would drift back to Jake, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to respond.

As I looked over at his mother, I tried to smile and appear calm, despite my growing anxiety.

She continued, "You were always such a sweet little girl and I always wanted a daughter to teach all the feminine things to."

I felt my heart racing and my voice started to shake as I tried to respond.

"Oh," I said, feeling awkward and nervous.

I gave a small smile and tried to maintain my composure, but I was feeling overwhelmed by the conversation and didn't know how to respond.

As the conversation shifted to other topics, the atmosphere became more comfortable. Despite feeling fine, thoughts of Jake lingered in my mind. I couldn't help but wonder what he was doing .

I tried not to think about it too much and to focus on the present, but it was difficult.

After the meeting, everyone went home, including Uzma. I remained silent, not discussing what had happened with anyone. Without hesitation, I retreated to the solace of my room, shutting myself off from the outside world. It seemed like no one even cared to check on me or ask how I was feeling after meeting his parents.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of disgust towards myself. How did I even agree to meet Aariz's parents? Now they must have this false hope that I will say yes to him. It was a decision made in haste, and now I have to deal with the consequences.

I was so furious that I found myself pulling at my hair in frustration. I hastily removed my earrings, not caring about the pain it caused. Tears streamed down my face, smudging my mascara, and I wiped my smudged lips with the back of my hand. As I looked at my reflection in the mirror, I couldn't believe the sight before me. I looked absolutely dreadful. It was hard to fathom that the person standing in front of the mirror was actually me.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself down and regain composure. Realizing that dwelling on my appearance wouldn't solve anything, I decided to take a step back and reflect on the situation. It was clear that I needed to confront my feelings and have an honest conversation with Aariz about my true intentions. I couldn't let the fear of disappointing his parents dictate my choices. With a newfound determination, I wiped away the smudges on my face, fixed my appearance, and prepared to face the challenges head-on.

I decided to cleanse my face did ablution and offer a heartfelt prayer to Allah, seeking guidance and asking for things to improve in my life. I had faith that through prayer, I would find the strength and clarity to navigate the challenges I was facing. Trusting in Allah's wisdom, I held onto hope and believed that things would eventually get better.

I finally decided to find my voice and stand up for what I wanted. As I powered on my phone, it immediately started buzzing with a flurry of text messages and missed calls from Jake.

As I checked my phone, a mixture of dread and anxiety washed over me. I couldn't help but wonder what he was thinking about me. With a deep breath, I summoned the courage to open his messages.

"Babe, where are you?"
My heart sank as I read his words.

"I miss you," , his longing evident in his message. The flood of emotions intensified as I saw his desperate plea

" Are you okay????? Reach me asap."

A ray of hope appeared when he called me
"Sunshineeee,"

"Please don't ghost on me like this," he pleaded, his worry palpable.

"At least tell me what's happening."

"Are you alright???"

The desire to see him overwhelmed me as I kept reading

"Can I visit youu???"

"I wanna see youu Sarah, just reply to my texts please."

But then, a shiver ran down my spine as I read his final message

"Urghh, meet me around 12 when everyone is asleep. Keep your windows open." The sense of danger and urgency in his words sent chills down my spine.
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Hey readers! I hope you're enjoying the story so far. I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions on Aariz and what you think might happen to Jake as he tries to adapt to everything that has unfolded. Feel free to share your views and predictions in the comments or send me a message. Your insights mean a lot to me!"