17, 2 Stories
"You're free now," Rayyan whispered gently into Zeenat's ear as they stepped out of the hospital.
The afternoon sun bathed the city in a warm, golden hue. It was a quiet Sunday, and they had just completed Zeenat's final check-up. Alhamdulillah, the doctor had finally removed her sling. Zeenat stretched her arm carefully, a smile lighting up her face. It felt so good to move freely again—to not need help just to get dressed or sometimes even lift a spoon. Although the doctor had reminded them to remain cautious and follow recovery precautions, the hardest part was behind her now.
"Thank you, Rayyan," Zeenat said softly.
He looked at her with mild surprise. "For what?"
"For taking care of me," she replied, her voice filled with quiet gratitude.
Rayyan didn't respond right away. He simply gave her a look—one she couldn't quite read.
Over the past five days, he had been by her side through everything. Helping her dress, holding things for her, even offering emotional support during moments of discomfort. Salima and Hussaina—their house helps—had been helpful too, but Rayyan had gone above and beyond. Somewhere in between shared office work hours, prayer times, and late-night movie marathons, they had started to reconnect. The distance between them was slowly fading. She had told him she'd forgiven him, and maybe she truly had, but he still seemed determined to earn that forgiveness—and honestly, she didn't mind.
"So…" Rayyan began, a playful glint in his eyes, "where to now?"
"Home, of course," Zeenat said without thinking.
"But we've been stuck indoors for five full days," he chuckled. "Don't you want to go somewhere else for a change?"
"I don't mind going home," she said with a shrug. "But if you have somewhere in mind, I'm fine with that too."
Still, the question lingered in her thoughts—why was he so reluctant to return home? Was it a man thing? She had always enjoyed being indoors, whether it was at home or working in the office. Rayyan, on the other hand, was the kind of person who could spend the entire day outside without blinking from what she learned from him.
"Then where should we go?" she asked, raising a brow at him.
"Nope, you choose," he replied.
"But I wasn't the one suggesting we avoid going home," she said, half amused.
Rayyan grinned. "Alright then no problem, leave it to me."
Zeenat returned the smile, adjusting her veil and niqab carefully as the breeze brushed past her face. Something about the moment felt... light.
As they drove through the city. They stopped at a mall, where he insisted on buying them new outfits, despite Zeenat's protests.
But Rayyan just smiled, ignoring her protests, and picked outfits for both of them. They left the store with a few bags and headed towards the car.
Once back in the car, he drove them to a large polo ground, one that was mostly quiet, with only no one in the area. It was as if the world had cleared out just for them.
"Where are we now?" Zeenat asked, curious as they parked.
"Here," Rayyan replied simply, handing her a small bundle of clothes. "Put this on."
Zeenat stared at the outfit for a moment. It seemed a bit too casual, too... relaxed. She hesitated but accepted the clothes anyway.
When she returned dressed, she was surprised to find how different she felt. The shirt was white, falling just a little not upto her knees, and her black trousers fit snugly. Her niqab worn on top of a small veil rolled and secured, completed the look. She was a little uncomfortable with the casual style, especially the length of the shirt.
Rayyan, on the other hand, had put on the same outfit—white shirt and black trousers—and he looked absolutely dashing in it. His gazed lingered on Zeenat and she instinctively hugged herself as she walked out, but his hand shot out, grabbing her wrist gently.
"Zeenat" Rayyan said.
"Where are you going?" he asked, pulling her to him. "You look stunning in it."
Zeenat look away trying to avoid his gaze. "But Rayyan, the clothes... they're too short and uncomfortable."
Rayyan chuckled softly. "Too short? I'm your husband, and we're the only ones here, Zeenat." He gestured around the empty polo grounds. "No one's here. Relax."
Zeenat took a breath, She slowly relaxed as he let go of her hand, pulling out a cap from his bag and handing it to her. "Here," he said. "Wear this, too."
She hesitated for only a second before he helped her placed it on her head, the soft fabric a small comfort. Rayyan adjusted his own cap, giving her a small, teasing smile.
"Now, follow me."
They walked towards the far end of the grounds, where Rayyan unveiled a horse standing quietly.
Zeenat froze, her eyes widening in surprise. "A horse?" she asked, stepping back instinctively.
Zeenat pulled back in alarm as she saw the horse. "Why did you bring me here?" she demanded, her eyes wide with a mix of confusion and fear.
Rayyan chuckled softly, trying to ease her worries. "Yes, a horse. We're going to ride, Zeenat," he said, holding her hands firmly to prevent her from running away.
"What? Please, let go of me!" she panic rising in her voice.
Zeenat tugged against his grip, but Rayyan didn't let go. "Calm down Zeenat, You don't have to be scared. I'm here," he assured her, his voice calm but firm.
Zeenat's anxiety bubbled over, her emotions swirling in her chest. It took several minutes of reassuring and calming words from Rayyan before she finally relaxed, just enough to agree. She could feel his presence, steady and strong beside her, and his kindness slowly worked through her fear. She hesitated for a moment longer, but eventually, she gave in.
The ride was slow and peaceful, with Rayyan guiding the horse gently as they moved through the open space. Zeenat's grip on him was tight, her body still tense, but she allowed herself to rest her head on his back, her heart gradually calming as she realized the horse wasn't as terrifying as she had imagined.
Their quiet conversation was light—soft words exchanged, with Rayyan occasionally checking in to make sure she was okay. Zeenat's nervousness eased as they continued.
"It's not that bad Rayyan."
"You see, I have told you."
---
Later, the evening had deepened, the Isha prayer already long passed. Now, they were in a secluded private garden, the soft hum of the night surrounding them. It was just the two of them, enjoying a peaceful moment together. They sat side by side, eating their dinner, feeding each other with a gentle smile.
They had long since left the polo grounds, and now they were dressed in fresh outfits. Zeenat wore a beautiful multi-colored gown, shades of pink and blue, with a matching veil. She didn't wear her niqab—Rayyan had gently removed it, telling her it was just the two of them, so there was no need for it now also. Rayyan himself had changed into a simple blue shirt and jeans, looking effortlessly handsome.
The atmosphere was relaxed, peaceful. Time seemed to slow as they enjoyed each other's company, their laughter filling the air. It was a perfect evening, with no rush or need to be anywhere else.
Rayyan led the conversation, telling Zeenat stories from his childhood. He spoke of his life growing up in the USA, and also Nigeria. Zeenat listened intently, laughing softly at some of the memories he shared. She found herself smiling more and more just like him, drawn into his world, as they bonded over his past.
An hour passed, and after sharing more stories and laughter, Rayyan pulled out a book from the bag they had picked up earlier from the Islamic bookstore. It was a historical Islamic text that Zeenat had shown interest in. She rested her head on Rayyan's lap as he opened the book.
Rayyan began to read aloud, his voice steady and calm, recounting the history. Zeenat's eyes fluttered, her attention wavering between his voice and the peaceful surroundings. Slowly, her eyelids grew heavier, the soft rhythm of Rayyan's voice lulling her into a sense of tranquility.
Before she realized it, Zeenat had fallen asleep, her head still resting on his lap, her fingers relaxed in her own gentle hold.
___
Very early in the morning, Zeenat stirred awake, finding herself on her own bed. She blinked a few times, confused. The last thing she remembered was dozing off in Rayyan's lap at the garden. She wasn't sure how she got back to her room, but she knows it was Rayyan who carried her. The thought made her smile as a soft laugh escaped her lips.
That morning, it was Zeenat who cooked for them. Rayyan savored every bite with visible delight.
"You're really the best cook, Zeenat," he told her, smiling as they ate together, feeding each other between bursts of joyful laughter.
After breakfast, they both got ready for the office—it had been six days since they last went in, though they had been working from home during that time. Just as they were stepping out, a luxurious white car drove into the compound.
"Who is it?" Zeenat asked, puzzled. It was still early, and she couldn't think of anyone who would visit them at that hour.
They stood at the edge of the house as a man, unfamiliar to Zeenat, stepped out of the car and approached them. Without a word, he handed a car key to Rayyan.
"Here is your car, sir."
But Rayyan didn't take the keys. Instead, he gestured toward Zeenat. "It's not for me. Pass it to her."
The man handed the keys to Zeenat, and she looked at them in surprise.
"You bought me a car" Zeenat asked.
He only nobbed.
Her eyes widened as she turned toward the sparkling white car. Happiness danced in her eyes as she moved closer to it, admiring the details—but then she paused, the keys still in her hand.
"Rayyan… I think this isn't necessary," she said softly. "We already have other cars at home."
Rayyan stepped closer to her, his tone calm and warm. "Yes, I know. But I wanted you to have your own car. And I won't give you my used one, Zeenat, not when we can afford a new one. You're worth more than that. You're my wife, my bride."
His words melted her heart. Without thinking, she threw her arms around him and hugged him tightly, her voice full of emotion as she whispered, "Thank you so much, Rayyan."
She had always dreamed of buying her first car with help from her brother, Zayd. He had offered to let her use his car, but told her she'd have to earn hers on her own so she would no the value of it. Still, this—this kind gesture from her husband—felt special.
Rayyan hugged her back just as tightly, pressing his chin gently over her head. "The pleasure is mine," he whispered.
Zeenat was the one who drove them to the office in her new car.
Back at the office, Zayd was delighted to see her looking perfectly healthy and happy.
"Hope that guy is treating you right now," Zayd asked with a teasing smile.
Zeenat nodded and told him how well they were getting along, even mentioning the new car Rayyan got her.
"Uh-huh, Zeenat... are you sure he's not just trying to spoil you with all that luxury?" Zayd raised a brow.
Now, Zeenat was starting to regret telling him. What's wrong if my husband buys me a gift? she thought to herself.
Mariya, on the other hand, was truly happy to see her best friend glowing with joy. It was clear Zeenat and Rayyan were getting along well.
Aisha, however, kept throwing lingering stares at Zeenat, making passive remarks—as if Zeenat was the one who had gone after Rayyan. But in reality, everything between them had grown from mutual care.
Zeenat spent most of her work hours in Rayyan's office now. Even when she wasn't there, Rayyan would come by hers to call her for their tasks. He often accompanied her and her teammates when they had to work outside the office. He seemed less busy lately but was especially focused on her team's project. Of course, she also helped him with his whenever she could.
They were genuinely getting along—professionally and personally.
Out of everyone, Mr. Abbas seemed to be the happiest about their newly blossomed relationship.
He never missed a day without offering them his heartfelt blessings, his face lighting up with joy each time he saw them together.
It was Thursday.
As the day neared its end, Zeenat shut down her system, finally done with her tasks for the day.
Rayyan, who had been sitting nearby, looked up. "What is it?" he asked, noticing her satisfied expression.
"I'm done with my work for today," Zeenat replied.
"Really? Well done," he said with a soft smile before falling into a thoughtful silence.
She noticed. "What is it? Hope all is well," she asked, her eyes filled with concern.
"Yes, everything is fine. I was just thinking about your project," he said, finally breaking the silence. "Since you're already the second lead and we still haven't found someone to take the lead… why don't you just take it up?"
"Really?" Zeenat blinked in surprise. "That would be great but…" she hesitated.
" As In, I would love to," she admitted, "but I'm still a junior staff. It would be hard for me to manage something this big."
"I don't think so," Rayyan countered gently. "You've already done most of the project initial work. And if you ever have any issues, I'm right here to help you."
Zeenat smiled at his confidence in her, feeling a warm flutter in her chest.
"But even if you agree, you know how the management is... they might not approve it," she said.
"You don't have to worry about that. I know how to handle them," Rayyan reassured her with a knowing smile.
Her smile widened. It would be a huge milestone for her—leading a project of her own. If this goes well, she thought, I might start getting assigned more lead roles in the future… as long as I earn good ratings.
She was excited. Nervous, but excited. And with Rayyan's support, it suddenly felt possible.