Scene 1: Monday Morning Farewell
Sunlight broke through the curtains, washing the bedroom in a gentle golden hue. Maryam lay curled under the soft quilt while Haroon stood before the mirror, adjusting his police uniform. It was the first day of duty after his wedding leave, and a new routine was about to begin.
"Are you sure you've packed your lunch?" Maryam asked sleepily.
Haroon turned, a smile on his face. "Yes, biwi sahiba. You packed it yourself, remember? Two chicken sandwiches and a fruit box."
Maryam grinned, her head still buried in the pillow. "Okay okay. Just making sure. First day back after such a long break."
He walked over and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I'll miss you today. But I'll call whenever I get time."
"Don't forget. And drive safely."
With one last glance and a smile that lingered, Haroon left for work.
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Scene 2: Midweek Conversations
The week passed quickly. Haroon's shifts were long, but he called Maryam several times a day—during lunch, at tea breaks, even before returning home.
On Wednesday night, while they sat on the balcony enjoying the evening breeze, Haroon casually mentioned, "I was thinking... how about dinner out this Saturday? Just you and me."
Maryam raised an eyebrow. "Dinner out? Isn't it too early for such expenses? We should be saving up. We've got the future to plan."
Haroon chuckled. "Don't worry about expenses. It's not like I'm booking a five-star hotel. Just a nice quiet place for us. We haven't really celebrated properly after the wedding."
She hesitated, then smiled. "Fine. But I have one condition."
He leaned in, curious. "What's that?"
"You are not allowed to bother me while I'm getting ready. No interruptions, no sneaky hugs, and definitely no distractions."
Haroon laughed heartily. "You drive a hard bargain. I'll try... if I can control my emotions."
She playfully narrowed her eyes. "Try very hard, Mister Officer."
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Scene 3: Saturday Evening Preparations
By Saturday evening, excitement buzzed in the house. Haroon had returned home early and was humming while shaving in the washroom.
Maryam was already pulling out her favorite maroon dress with delicate embroidery. She laid it on the bed and began preparing in front of the dressing table.
From the washroom, Haroon called out, "Do you need help zipping the dress later?"
Maryam yelled back, half-laughing, "No! Stay away until I'm fully dressed. Don't even peek!"
He walked out with a towel draped over his shoulder, smirking. "It's really hard, you know. Watching my beautiful wife get all dolled up without joining the fun."
"Control yourself, Officer Haroon."
He saluted. "As you command, madam."
While she did her makeup, Haroon quietly stepped into the kitchen and prepared a small tray with sliced mangoes, nuts, and lemonade. He placed it on the side table and said softly, "Snack for the queen, in case she gets hungry."
Maryam looked at him through the mirror, surprised. "You're getting good at this husband thing."
"Just practicing for a lifetime of it."
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Scene 4: A Quiet Dinner Out
They stepped out into the evening air, Haroon in a crisp blue shirt and Maryam looking radiant in her maroon dress. He opened the car door for her like a gentleman.
They drove to a quiet rooftop restaurant that overlooked the city lights. Soft music played in the background, and fairy lights twinkled around the dining area.
As they sat at a cozy corner table, Maryam sighed. "This place is lovely."
Haroon reached across the table, gently holding her hand. "Not as lovely as you tonight."
A waiter approached, and they ordered grilled chicken steaks and fresh lime drinks. During dinner, they laughed over childhood stories, shared secrets, and dreamed about the future.
"One day," Haroon said, slicing his steak, "we'll bring our little ones here."
Maryam blushed. "InshaAllah. Maybe in a few years."
He nodded, lifting his glass. "To us—and everything to come."
They clinked glasses, sealing the toast with their smiles.
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Scene 5: The Ride Home
As they drove home under the stars, Maryam rested her head against the car window. "Thank you for this night, Haroon. It was perfect."
He reached over and held her hand gently. "Thank you for making every day special."
They reached home just as a light drizzle began. Instead of rushing inside, they stood in the driveway for a moment, letting the rain sprinkle lightly over them.
Haroon brushed a raindrop from her cheek. "May this love always rain on us."
Maryam smiled, eyes glistening. "Ameen."
They entered their home with hearts full of joy, unaware of the deeper love that would unfold in the coming months.