The following morning, the rukhsati took place, the emotional ceremony where the bride bids farewell to her family and departs for the groom's home in a beautiful procession. At Mohammed's home, his mother welcomed Fathima with open arms, embracing her as her own daughter. š
By evening, Mohammed's home had transformed for the Walima, the wedding banquet hosted by the groom's family as a gesture of thanks. A long table in the spacious hall was laden with food. Fathima's family was also invited. Anisa was there in her yellow salwar kameez. She noticed Yugh had arrived as well, but as planned, they ignored each other, and he did the same.
The Walima isn't a show. š
It's a feast of gratitude,offered with respect.
The bride's demeanor had changed.
The shyness from before the Nikah was now replaced by a calm certainty in her eyes.
The groom stood by her side.
There was no distance between them now.
After the Nikah,
they were legally one. ā
Food was served.
Rice,meat, simple sweets. š²
No loud music,no dancing.
But there was conversation,laughter.
The elders prayers.
"May Allah fill their lives
with peace,
with love,
with protection." š¤²
The bride listened.
This wasn't a fairy tale.
This was real life.
As the Walima concluded,
she understood,
marriage isn't just about this day,
it's about every single day that begins now.š¤