Scene 1: Morning Calm Before the Call
The morning light filtered gently through the curtains of Maryam's house, touching the walls that had grown accustomed to laughter, footsteps, and constant voices over the past week. Three days remained before the mehndi function, and the house felt like it was breathing faster with every passing hour.
Maryam stood in the kitchen, supervising breakfast. Cups of tea lined the counter, parathas were stacked in a covered basket, and the faint smell of fried eggs filled the air.
"Ubaid, don't forget your homework notebook," Maryam reminded calmly.
"I won't, Mama," Ubaid replied, tying his school shoes.
Irfan tugged at his bag. "Mama, today my friend said weddings are more fun than Eid."
Maryam smiled. "They are fun, but only when everyone helps."
Rimsha entered the kitchen, adjusting her dupatta. Her face showed a mixture of excitement and quiet nervousness.
"Aapi, should I help with breakfast?" she asked.
Maryam shook her head. "You sit. You've been doing enough."
Before Rimsha could reply, Maryam's phone rang on the kitchen counter. She glanced at the screen—an unfamiliar number.
"Hello?" Maryam answered.
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Scene 2: The Beauty Parlor Call
"Assalamualaikum, this is Noor Beauty Studio," a polite female voice said. "We're calling regarding the bridal schedule for Ms. Rimsha."
"Yes, speaking," Maryam replied attentively.
"We would like to start pre-bridal services—cleansing, bleach, and a facial. We have an evening slot today at 6 pm. Will that be convenient?"
Maryam thought for a moment, calculating the day's routine.
"Yes," she said firmly. "We'll be there on time."
"Perfect," the woman replied. "Please make sure the bride avoids makeup before coming."
Maryam ended the call and placed the phone down slowly.
Rimsha, who had been watching her quietly, asked, "Who was it?"
Maryam looked at her sister and smiled gently. "The beauty parlor. They've called you."
Rimsha's eyes widened slightly. "Today?"
"Yes. Six in the evening."
Rimsha swallowed. "Aapi… it's really starting, isn't it?"
Maryam reached out and held her hand. "It already has."
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Scene 3: A Private Sisterly Conversation
Later in the afternoon, when the house was busy with guests chatting in the living room and children playing upstairs, Maryam gently pulled Rimsha into her bedroom.
"Sit," Maryam said softly, closing the door.
Rimsha sat on the edge of the bed, nervously twisting the corner of her dupatta.
Maryam sat beside her. "I wanted to tell you calmly, away from everyone. Pre-bridal care isn't just about looks. It's about giving yourself time."
Rimsha nodded. "I feel strange, Aapi. Everyone is happy, but sometimes my heart beats too fast."
Maryam placed her hand over Rimsha's. "That's because you're stepping into a new chapter. Fear and happiness often walk together."
Rimsha looked up. "You'll stay with me, right?"
Maryam smiled warmly. "Every step. Every moment."
Rimsha exhaled, visibly relieved.
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Scene 4: On the Way to the Beauty Parlor
At five-thirty, Maryam and Rimsha stepped out of the house. Haroon offered to drive them.
"I'll drop you and wait nearby," he said.
"No," Maryam replied gently. "You stay. Guests need you. We'll manage."
Rimsha adjusted her shawl as they walked to the car.
The drive through Islamabad felt calm. Evening traffic moved slowly, and the sky was painted in shades of orange and pink.
Rimsha stared out the window. "Aapi, do you remember when you used to braid my hair before school?"
Maryam chuckled. "And you'd complain I pulled too hard."
"You still do," Rimsha smiled.
Maryam laughed softly. "Some habits don't change."
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Scene 5: Inside the Beauty Parlor
The beauty parlor welcomed them with soft lighting and a faint floral fragrance. A receptionist greeted them warmly.
"Ms. Rimsha?" she asked.
"Yes," Rimsha replied shyly.
"Please come. Your room is ready."
Maryam sat nearby while Rimsha was guided to a comfortable chair. A beautician explained each step patiently.
"We'll start with cleansing, then bleach, and finish with a soothing facial."
Rimsha nodded quietly.
Maryam watched her sister, noticing how Rimsha tried to appear calm, though her fingers tightened occasionally.
The beautician smiled. "Relax. Brides glow when they stop worrying."
Maryam added softly, "Listen to her."
Rimsha smiled faintly and closed her eyes.
Time passed slowly. Maryam scrolled through her phone, occasionally glancing at Rimsha, praying silently for ease and happiness.
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Scene 6: Imran's House – Guests Begin to Gather
While Maryam and Rimsha were at the parlor, Imran's house was experiencing its own transformation.
In the living room, chairs were rearranged, tea cups passed around, and relatives arrived one after another.
Imran's mother, Kulsoom, welcomed guests warmly. "Please come in. You're just in time for tea."
Imran's father, Hameed, sat with elder relatives, discussing arrangements.
"The wedding dates came quickly," one uncle remarked.
"Yes," Hameed replied. "But Allah's plans are always perfect."
Imran entered the room, greeting everyone respectfully. His cousins teased him lightly.
"So, groom sahib, nervous?" one cousin joked.
Imran smiled shyly. "More responsible than nervous."
Kulsoom watched her son fondly. "He's changed," she whispered to a relative. "Marriage matures a man even before it happens."
Laughter filled the room.
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Scene 7: Evening Reflections
Back at the beauty parlor, Rimsha's facial was complete. Her skin looked fresh, glowing softly.
The beautician handed her a mirror. "See for yourself."
Rimsha looked, surprised. "It's… nice."
Maryam smiled proudly. "It's you."
As they left the parlor, the evening air felt cooler.
Rimsha said quietly, "Thank you for coming with me, Aapi."
Maryam replied, "Where else would I be?"
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Scene 8: Returning Home
When they reached home, the house was still alive with conversation. Guests turned to look at Rimsha.
One cousin whispered, "She's glowing already."
Rimsha lowered her gaze, smiling shyly.
Maryam guided her inside. "Go rest. Tomorrow will be busy."
Rimsha nodded and went upstairs.
Maryam stood for a moment, watching her sister climb the stairs, feeling a mix of pride and tenderness.
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Scene 9: Night Thoughts
Late at night, when the house finally quieted, Maryam sat by the window, sipping warm tea.
Three days before mehndi.
Three days before colors, music, and rituals.
Three days before Rimsha's life changed forever.
She whispered a prayer under her breath—for ease, for happiness, for love that lasts.
In another part of the city, Imran lay awake as well, listening to the sounds of his house filled with guests, imagining the future ahead.
Two homes, two hearts, moving steadily toward the same celebration.
And somewhere between preparations and prayers, the wedding had already begun.