24: Helena's nikkah with whom?

As Fatima moved from the lounge to the kitchen area, she called out, "Don't you both have any work to do? Sitting here, gossiping uselessly?"

Ryan grinned and replied, "Ahh, my dear wife, ever since you came back from Japan, you've been too busy to notice your pretty handsome husband. So, I'm just wasting my precious time with Faris instead."

Fatima shot him a side glare with a light smile before continuing to the kitchen.

Faris gave Ryan a serious look, but Ryan just laughed at his reaction. Faris then said, "Well, my precious trouble is getting married today. What's better for us than that?"

Just then, Aylin ran to him with her tiny legs. Faris scooped her up into his lap and started playing with her. Meanwhile, Helena was in her bedroom, looking out at the scene with teary eyes. Her heart wasn't ready to accept this marriage, giving her some weird signals but she tried to ignore. She convinced herself it was just her nerves.

As evening approached, everyone began getting ready. Helena was already dressed in a baby pink long frock with a matching hijab.

Fatima entered Helena's room and said, "Come on, Helena. The car is ready; we need to go now."

Helena still felt a pounding in her heart. She took a deep breath as Fatima helped her stand and guided her outside. She stepped into the car along with Fatima, Jibreel, Nura, and Aylin, with Ryan joining them. Meanwhile, Ayesha, Burak, and Ahmed went with Faris and the other family guests in other cars arranged by Ahmed.

They arrived at the venue before the groom's side. Fatima led Helena to the dressing room while Ahmed, Faris, and Ryan checked the decorations and other arrangements. Everything was perfect, as Ryan had meticulously arranged everything.

After a while, they welcomed the groom and his family. The groom sat on a chair in front of the wedding flower backdrop. Shortly after, Fatima escorted Helena to the Nikkah area. They were seated facing each other, with the wedding flower backdrop behind them during the Nikkah ceremony.

Helena still felt a strange sensation creeping up her spine, her heart pounding like a drum. She kept her eyes lowered, trembling even more than before. She had been continously getting a feeling that something was about to happen.

Ahmed gestured to the imam to begin the Nikkah, with each passing second intensifying Helena's overwhelming emotions.

Ayesha gently held Helena's trembling hand as Ahmed signaled the imam to proceed with the ceremony.

"Helena daughter of Ahmed, do you accept Omar son of Mohammad Yusuf as your husband?" the imam asked.

Ayesha squeezed Helena's hand softly and whispered, "Say yes, my child."

Helena hesitated before softly replying, "Yes, I do."

"Helena daughter of Ahmed, do you accept Omar son of Mohammad Yusuf as your husband?" the imam repeated.

"Ye...."

"NOT AT ALL..." a voice echoed through the venue.

Everyone turned in shock towards the source of the voice, only to see Zaim walking confidently down the aisle.

Ryan smiled at Zaim's bold interruption, biting his lower lip as he anticipated this move, while Faris stood visibly shocked.

Ayesha and Ahmed were equally taken aback, their surprise even more apparent than Faris's. Ali and Jessica were utterly confused, their eyes widening in disbelief and their jaw dropped as they processed what was happening.

Helena raised her head and looked up at Zaim, she was shocked too and her anger simmering,. Every time Zaim's name became linked with hers, trouble seemed to follow. Despite the distance between them, Zaim's gaze was fixed on Helena, who wore a long veil. Although her face was covered, the net fabric allowed her to see everything clearly.

Zaim finally reached the front, and the guests began whispering among themselves about his unexpected arrival and unusual attire. He wore a casual white shirt and straight pants, with his favorite Rolex watch on his wrist, his hands casually tucked into his pockets.

As Ahmed began moving towards Zaim, another commotion drew everyone's attention. A woman in a western dress, accompanied by her three daughters, hurried towards the groom and began beating him furiously. Confusion spread through the venue as no one could understand what was happening.

Zaim, standing in front of the wedding flower backdrop with his arms crossed, laughed heartily at the unfolding chaos. Ryan and Faris exchanged bewildered glances between the furious woman and the still-laughing Zaim.

When Zaim noticed Helena glaring at him, her eyes flustered, he quickly straightened up, coughed slightly, suppressed his laughter and made a neutral tone

Meanwhile, the woman continued beating the groom, yelling at him for deceiving them, leaving the guests even more puzzled.

Ahmed approached Zaim, who shifted his gaze towards him and greeted him with a slight bow and a faint smile. "Assalamualaikum, Uncle. How are you?" Ahmed replied roughly, "Walaikum assalam. What is going on here, Zaim? Care to explain?"

Instead of answering directly, Zaim glanced at the groom with a disgusted yet playful expression. "Zaim, I'm talking to you," Ahmed said again.

After clearing his throat, Zaim finally looked at Ahmed and replied, "You can see with your own eyes, my favorite uncle." Fatima, seeing the commotion, quickly took Helena back into the dressing room as the atmosphere in the venue shifted drastically.

°°°

Everyone returned to the Ahmadi house, and Helena went straight to her room, locking the door behind her. Zaim and his family also arrived, preparing to settle things. The both. families gathered in the lounge while Fatima went to the kitchen to make tea for everyone.

Ahmed spoke up, "Allah has saved us. I had yelled at my friend about this match, but he didn't know that the man was already married and had three daughters. Helena's life was almost ruined, but thankfully, she was saved.

Zaim, standing against the wall, continued to stare towards the gate where Helena had disappeared. "You should have reported this marriage to the police; two lives were being destroyed. Ryan said,

"We have forgiven him my child, as we are not vengeful people. Allah does not favor those who seek revenge. Its enough for me that my Helena's life was saved from such a disaster."

Ryan said, "but Dad, if you say, I can bring that man here to apologize to Helena."

"No, my child, there's no need for that.

Fatima, you go check on Helena. This is the second time something like this has happened to her." Ahmed added, glancing at Zaim. Zaim noticed the subtle taunt in Ahmed's eyes, Zaim looked back at him with an embarrassing look.

Fatima started to head towards Helena's room. As she approached, the door to Helena's room opened, and Helena emerged, appearing calm and composed.

Zaim straightened up his posture and looked at Helena with his doe eyes as she walked past him. Helena had changed her dress and jewelry and sat next to Ahmed, wrapping her arms around his waist and resting her head on his chest. Ahmed embraced her warmly and kissed her gently on the forehead.

"My strong child," Ahmed said, caressing her head. "I would sacrifice my life for you, my beauty." Helena snuggled closer, finding comfort in his embrace.

Zaim observed the scene, feeling a pang of pain as he watched how tenderly Ahmed held Helena, treating her like a small child

After a while, everyone gathered around the dining table for dinner. Due to the earlier tension, no one had eaten, and it was now 10 p.m. Fatima and Ryan worked hard to restore some normalcy, with Jessica trying to lighten the mood with her playful nature.

Fatima and Ayesha served dinner, then sat down to eat, while the wives served their husbands. Helena had already taken food on her plate but was lost in thought, her fork moving back and forth without her eating. Zaim kept observing her distress.

Jessica, noticing Helena's disinterest, she then asked, "My precious baby, why aren't you eating hmm?"

Helena snapped back to reality, saying, "Huh? No, I'm eating, Auntie." She pressed her lips into a thin line, and Zaim continued to glare at her.

After dinner, everyone returned to the lounge and began discussing various topics. Zaim, Ryan, and Faris sat together. Ryan smacked Zaim's arm and said, "Ahan, impressive man."

Faris, who had also been impressed by Zaim's actions, looked at him. Zaim responded with a smile, "I told ya, I'm not an ordinary man, bro." He winked while laughing. Helena caught his wink and made eye contact with him. Zaim felt his heart race. Helena quickly shifted her gaze away, and Zaim thought to himself, "Wallahi, her one glance is enough to kill me, Allah." He took deep breaths to calm his racing heart.

Faris asked, "What do you think, will Helena agree to be with you?"

Ryan looked at Faris and noticed that he seemed to accept Zaim's feelings for Helena. Zaim looked at Faris and replied confidently, "Bro, she's already mine. Nothing in this world can take her away from me except Allah. I got her through my prayers, and I'll win her through my love. You'll see me with her for the rest of my life, you jealous people." He gestured back and forth between Faris and Ryan with his index fingers.

Ryan laughed, and Faris smirked slightly.

Helena was deep in conversation with Jessica and Fatima. Feeling suffocated, she excused herself and went to the garden area. Zaim watched her retreating figure with confusion. Fatima started to follow but Ahmed stopped her, saying, "Let her go. She needs some time alone. We'll talk to her later." Fatima understood and stayed back.

After a while, Zaim stood and excused himself, saying, "Mr. Ali, I'm going home." Ali was surprised as he thought Zaim wouldn't stay at Mohammadi villa since he wasn't aware that Zaim had come specifically for Helena. Zaim saw this as an opportunity to speak with Helena. He made his way to the garden, while Faris and Ryan observed him, knowing where he was headed.

Helena stood barefoot on the grass, gazing at the starry sky and reflecting on the events of the day. Zaim saw her from far, noticing she was shivering, and rubbing her arm with her hand, Zaim went back inside to grab a shawl from the side table. He returned to her and stood beside her.

Helena took a side glance to him and started to leave from there just then Zaim said,

"Take it, you are freezing." He stopped then said again while looking at her side profile. "I want to say something."

Helena didn't respond and continued to look at the sky. Zaim placed the shawl on the chair. He spoke again,

"Helena."

She didn't move a budge, but he said again, "I'm really sorry for what happened today."

Helena turned to him with a death glare and said, "Really? Are you really sorry? You just made fun of me in front of everyone, as you always do, Zaim. You're all the same. Deceivers."

Zaim looked at her with his intense and doe eyes back, He could feel the anger in her eyes, and the tears too, his expression softening he then said. "Helena, it's not like that. I'm not like them. I'm not trying to deceive you. I was just trying to help you because you're dear to me."

Helena rubbed her wrist where her bracelet used to be. Zaim continued, "I truly care about you. she again shot him a death glare and he stopped saying, he then gulped down the saliva and tried to calm the situation and said again,

"Helena I really love you, whatever you say it's always been you, and I mean it."

"Yeah, I know how much you love me." I realized that when you rejected me in front of everyone at the Mohammadi villa and insulted me." She taunted. Zaim cut off her words and said abruptly,

"That was not the whole truth. I didn't know the girl Dad had fixed my marriage with was you. If I had known, I wouldn't have done it."

"You know what, Zaim? I don't care about anything regarding my life. I don't trust men anymore. I hate you to the core of my heart. If I've endured the pain from Alex, I can endure anything. I couldn't care less. So stop pretending to be nice in front of me." she said, gesturing for him to stay away, "And Please keep your distance from me."

With that, Helena turned and walked away, leaving Zaim standing alone, watching her retreating figure.

The next day, Ali was in his study, talking on the phone, when Zaim entered the room. "I need to talk to you," Zaim said.

Ali, surprised since he thought Zaim would have already left for London, ended his call and turned to face him. "What now?"

Zaim, noticed that why Ali didn't show the desperation to have him in the villa, because Ali's expression was rough, he let the thought aside and said, "Talk to Uncle Ahmed about my marriage to Helena."

Ali straightened up, confused. "What do you mean?"

I didn't say anything difficult that you have to hard to understand, Dad. Just talk to Uncle Ahmed about our marriage. I can't wait any longer." Zaim said firmly.

"But you broke off the engagement when I arranged it. Now you want me to go back and talk to him about it again? Are you out of your mind? Where have that girl gone whom you wanted to marry huh? She broke up with you and now you came to destroy helena's life ? I'm not gonna talk to him again I have some respect left Zaim otherwise you haven't left me anywhere to face anyone."

"I don't have time to explain everything,Just do as I ask."

"Where did that girl go? And when I fixed Why did you reject the marriage?" Ali raised his voice a little

"Dad." he scoffed while looking away,

"I didn't know Helena was the girl you had arranged for me. I've loved Helena since university. I can't explain everything to everyone over and over again, but I need you to talk to uncle Ahmed today."

Ali was still skeptical. " I'll think about it."

"If you don't go, I will go own my own" Zaim said before leaving the room.

Ali muttered to himself, "He's really something else. He'll drive me crazy with his actions, oh Allah give me patience."

"Assalamualaikum, everyone," Zaim announced as he entered the Ahmadi house. Helena was in the kitchen with Nura, making cheese cakes, while Fatima feeding her children. Ryan worked on his laptop, Faris chatted with Ayesha, and Ahmed emerged from his room, closing the door when he saw Zaim.

Zaim scanned the lounge but soon noticed Helena in the kitchen. Their eyes met, and Zaim felt his heart race. He quickly looked away. Ahmed greeted him, "Walaikum assalam, Zaim. What brings you here?"

Zaim hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck and looked at Ryan who was busy in laptop and was working of his office work,

"Actually, I had some work with Ryan. We share a business project, so I needed to come by." he said breaking the words and bit his lower lip, embarrassed by his lie to see Helena. Ryan stifled a laugh, knowing the real reason for Zaim's visit.

Ryan taunted without looking up from his laptop, "Oh, what kind of work Zaim ? I thought we finished our project two months ago. Well have you brought the flash drive with you ?"

Zaim shot him a glare and then looked at Ahmed. Laughing sarcastically, he said, "No need for that Ryan, my brain is enough to store the files, I have some other work Ryan, he emphasized his name in annoying." Ryan chuckled at the playful exchange.

Zaim then sat down in front of Ryan on a single sofa and looked at Helena. Helena, trying to ignore him, continued with her cake, she was completely annoyed by his presence.

"Yah, Ryan, listen to me," Zaim said, leaning in closer.

Ryan replied while typing on the keyboard, "What now?"

"Make a plan for an outing."

Ryan gave him a skeptical look. "What for?"

"Look at your sister-in-law, She's upset. An outing might help her.

She needs to get out and clear her mind." Zaim whispered, glancing toward the kitchen to ensure no one overheard.

"I can guess..."

Zaim cut Ryan off, "don't push your small brain to overthink my brother, just go Just ask Uncle Ahmed about it."

Ryan looked at Helena, who was watching them with suspicion. Zaim looked at her too then straighten back , he cleared his throat and flashed a smile, which only made Helena more irritated. She felt like to throw slipper from kitchen but as he was born stubborn he couldn't careless he even would have received slipper from her.

Zaim shifted his gaze towards Ryan and heard.

"Why don't you ask on your own after all you are baba's favorite child." Ryan teased him

"Yah Ryan I can't, please help me this time I'll do as you say." Zaim pleaded

"Consider it done. But remember, don't back out later when I ask something." Ryan smirked sarcastically as he got the chance to get the favor from Zaim.

"Sure, sure, I'll do anything to see Helena happy." Zaim said with a broad smile.

Faris, who had overheard their conversation while talking to Ayesha, noticed the exchange between Ryan and Zaim.

Helena glanced at him, her irritation evident, while Zaim responded with a broad smile. He leaned back on the couch, spreading his arms and resting his hands on the couch head, his expression one of satisfaction. He took a deep breath, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Helena, rolling her eyes in frustration, focused on her task of putting the cakes into the oven. She shot Zaim an annoyed look before turning her attention back to her work.

Zaim watched her with a determined glint in his eyes and thought. "This is just the first step in winning you over, my baby."

Zaim was still looking at Helena when Ryan who had just turned off his laptop, he said, "Fatima, my dear wife, get ready." He stood up from the couch and walked over to the kitchen bar. Fatima was wiping the plates after washing them, she asked, "Where are we going, Ryan?"

Ryan glanced back at Zaim, who was watching him, Zaim gestured for Ryan to continue the conversation. Ryan then returned his attention to Fatima and said, "To the amusement park."

Helena looked up at Ryan and her face lit up upon hearing this because the amusement park had always been her favorite place. Zaim noticed her reaction, but Helena quickly suppressed her excitement when she realized Zaim was watching her.

He smiled, knowing that the amusement park was Helena's favorite spot-that's why Zaim had already suggested it to Ryan.

"But you don't like amusement parks, Ryan." Fatima remarked, shooting him a puzzled but amused look.

"Yeah, but our Helena does," Ryan replied and Helena looked at Ryan with her innocent eyes while Zaim's gaze still fixed on Helena.

"But what about these cheesecakes? We made them for you all." Fatima made a sad, dramatic pout. "My dear wife, pack them up and bring them with us. We'll eat on the way." Fatima nodded, and Helena began packing the cakes into a container.

Ryan playfully looked back at Zaim and said, "But Zaim, I guess you won't come with us, will you?"

Zaim furrowed his eyebrows in mild anger and shot Ryan a sharp glare. Ryan suppressed a smile and added, "I mean, you have a lot of work related to the project-that's why you came here, right?"

Zaim glanced at Helena, who was looking at him, then shifted his gaze. Standing from his spot, he rubbed the back of his head and said hesitantly, "Ahh, you insisted that I come with you, so I can hold off the work for another day. It's not a big deal. Well... someone needs to keep things interesting there, and I'm the perfect fit for that."

Ryan raised an eyebrow sarcastically. "Oh really, Zaim?"

Zaim shot him another death glare, and Ryan raised his hands in mock surrender, laughing slightly. "Ah, okay, I got it. Let's go then."

After Asar prayer, they arrived at the amusement park. Everyone stood outside, admiring its outer structure, while Helena could hardly contain her excitement-she hadn't been to an amusement park in a long time. Ryan returned after buying tickets for everyone.

They entered the park, and Helena's eyes sparkled when she saw the dangerous rides. However, Zaim seemed uneasy, or perhaps he was just pretending to be scared.

Fatima looked brightly at the rides and said in full of excitement, "Let's go, ladies and gentlemen!"

Ryan who was standing beside Fatima, Fatima took a glance on Ryan and gave him an encouraging pat on the back, Don't worry, honey, we'll start with something easy," she said, pointing to the roller coaster. "How about the roller coaster?"

"I hate roller coaster Fatima." Ryan said looking at the roller coaster.

Zaim whispered, "Me too, bro. Let's go somewhere else. I can't bear this giant weird monster." He started pulling Ryan's hand to leave.

Fatima teased, "Aww, are these big guys scared already?"

Helena joined in, "Let's go, guys. Have fun today." Zaim looked at Helena, smiling lovingly, then echoed her words, "Let's go, guys. Have fun." Ryan glanced at him before they reached the roller coaster. Ryan gulped nervously, and his throat dry.

Then Ryan noticed Zaim's pale face and teased him, saying, "What happened, Zaim? Are you sure you're up for this? You look like you've seen a ghost, but just a moment ago, you said, 'Let's go have fun, guys.'" He mimicked Zaim in a funny, weird tone.

Zaim tried to play it off. "What do you mean? I'll definitely do this-for my woman." Zaim's tone grew quieter and more nervous as they approached the roller coaster.

They sat on the roller coaster and fastened their seat belts. Helena, Nura, and Faris sat together, while Zaim, Ryan, and Fatima sat together.

As the ride started moving upward slowly, Zaim and Ryan's eyes squeezed shut. They could feel their hearts pounding in their chests, each beat louder than the last. When they reached the top, they dared to open their eyes, taking in the breathtaking view-though Zaim's view was mostly focused on Helena sitting in front of him.

Fatima laughed at Ryan's pale face and said, "Come on, honey, live a little." She grabbed his hand and continued, "Don't worry, I'll hold your hand. You won't be scared anymore."

Zaim, who was gripping the handle of the roller coaster tightly, overheard Fatima and smirked sarcastically. Still looking straight ahead, he said, "Smooth, Ryan. Real smooth. You've got a life, man, and look at this poor guy-still alone and gripping this handle instead of the hand of my love." He made a dramatic face.

During the ride, Helena, Faris, Nura, and Fatima screamed in excitement and joy, while Zaim and Ryan screamed out of fear.

After the ride ended, Fatima said while taking off her belt, "Ryan, I didn't know you could scream like that." She teased him, laughing. Ryan, embarrassed, "At least I didn't close my eyes like Zaim."

Zaim made a weird, playful face and said while removing his seat belt. "I was just conserving my energy for the bumper cars." Ryan sarcastically replied, "Yeah, yeah, I know you, Zaim."

After the bumper cars, Helena suggested, "So, what's next? The Ferris wheel?"

Ryan's face paled again, but he managed not to show it. "One step at a time, little sister. One step at a time, please have mercy on us."

"Don't behave like a child, Ryan, Come and live the best moments of your life." Helena replied.

Zaim groaned. "Do we really have to? I prefer my feet on the ground, guys."

Helena ran off, grabbing Nura and Faris by the hands, saying, "Let's fly into the skyyy yayy!"

Fatima laughed as she followed, teasing Zaim. "Guess you're not her favorite person, Zaim."

Zaim smiled ruefully. "Yeah, I know, but one day she'll like me."

Ryan patted his shoulder and said sarcastically, "Until you write your pre-love story here, haha." Then he walked away.

Zaim shouted after him, "I've already written it, bro! Just waiting to film it and show the whole world."

As they sat on the Ferris wheel, Fatima and Ryan took a seat opposite Helena and Zaim since the chairs were small and could only fit two people each. Faris and Nura sat together, leaving Helena alone. The entire Ferris wheel was full, and Zaim was still standing near the wheel, waiting to sit. The ride attendant then said, "If you want to sit, sit with that woman, or you'll have to wait for the next hour because of its maintenance."

Zaim looked in the direction the attendant pointed and saw Helena sitting alone, looking out at the view. He gulped and moved towards her, after speaking with the ride controller.

He sat down in front of her without making eye contact. Helena turned her head, giving him a piercing look, and said, slightly annoyed, "What are you doing?"

Just then, the ride started moving. Zaim looked at her and said, "Enjoying my precious moment."

Helena scanned the entire Ferris wheel and realized it was full. She scoffed in annoyance and turned her head back towards the view.

The Ferris wheel spun slowly, giving them a mesmerizing view from the top. As Zaim's chair reached the top, the Ferris wheel suddenly stopped. Both Zaim and Helena quickly grabbed the handle, and Zaim, genuinely scared, asked, "W...what just happened?"

Helena looked at him, noticing his pale face, and scoffed again but said nothing. Zaim repeated,

"HEY, WHAT HAPPENED? WHY DID IT STOP? WHAT IF I DIE? I HAVEN'T GOTTEN MARRIED YET, I EVEN HAVEN'T GOT MY LOVE. WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO MY PRETTY HANDSOME FACE? YAHH SOMEONE START THIS.

Helena shot Zaim an irritated look after his latest dramatic performance. "Stop acting, Zaim, and sit quietly." When she noticed that Zaim still looked terrified, she sighed deeply, shifting her gaze to the view outside. It suddenly hit her just how high up they were.

"Zaim," she began, taking a deep sigh, "nothing's going to happen. No one's going to die here. There must be some malfunction with the ride."

He stared at her with wide, doe-like eyes, not even blinking as he absorbed her words, which seemed to comfort him. Of course, it was all an act; Zaim had arranged for the Ferris wheel to stop at the top, paying the operator handsomely just to spend more time with Helena.

"Yeah, I know, Helena but I'm afraid of heights. I really value my life, so please, say something comforting."

She handed him a water bottle without looking at him. "Help yourself."

Zaim gave her a helpless look, then unscrewed the cap and drank the water, his every move overly dramatic. He was, without a doubt, a complete drama king. After downing the water, he spoke in a more serious tone.

"Helena, I really love you, and you already know this. If I have to keep saying it, I will, over and over again."

Helena turned to him, stunned by his words, then quickly looked away, focusing on the view instead. "It's just an attraction, Zaim. Every man runs after beauty, but there's no such thing as love. And I don't love you, I can never love you. I've told you this before."

Zaim shook his head slightly, his voice soft yet firm. "You think it's just an attraction to your beauty, but it's not. The love I have for you goes beyond words. I can't show you my heart, but one day, you'll see. I know you hate me, but I'll keep loving you with all my heart until I win you over. Bet on it."

Helena got angry at his words. "Shut up and stop being so clingy, Zaim. Keep your cheesy lines to yourself. I'm not going to be impressed. You already know I hate you to the core because I hate playboys. You can only harm me with your words."

Zaim's expression softened, his voice quieting as he replied, "You really think that low of me? The person who has lost himself in you, what harm would he do to you? He kept looking at her as her words really hurt him a lot, he again said, "I'm not a playboy."

Helena felt Zaim's gaze on her but refused to meet his eyes. "Don't look at me like that. The view is over there."

Zaim chuckled softly, his tone teasing. "I forget every beauty of the universe when you're in front of me."

Helena shot him a stern glare, which Zaim barely suppressed a laugh at. Just then, the Ferris wheel jerked to resume.

Once they reached the ground, Ryan's face was pale, clearly affected by the height. Fatima was at his side, comforting him.

Faris, ever the thrill-seeker, grinned. "Let's go to the haunted house next!" Zaim groaned. "Oh, come on! I hate those too, seriously."

Helena gave him a serious look, which made Zaim quickly add, "I'm serious! I can't deal with those creepy gorilla faces, Helena. Not this time, please." Helena grinned mischievously. "Perfect, let's go then, guys!"

As Faris, Fatima, and Ryan headed toward the haunted house, Ryan muttered under his breath, "These siblings are crazy, I swear. Ughhhhh, I can't stand them."

Zaim, smiling at Ryan's plight, said, "Whatever my woman likes, I'll follow. You should do the same for your little wife." He patted Ryan's cheek, a smirk playing on his lips as they followed the group.

After spending the day at the amusement park, everyone headed straight to the Ahmadi house, including Zaim.

Helena greeted her mother, "Assalamualaikum, Mama," and then quickly made her way to her room. The others settled into the lounge, where Ayesha served them water. After a little while, Zaim picked up his gadgets to go back to his house.

Ahmed emerged from his room and asked Ayesha, "Where's Helena?"

"She's in her room," Ayesha replied while placing a water bottle in the fridge.

"Call her here; I need to tell her something," Ahmed said.

Zaim, curious about what Ahmed had to say, he sat back down on the couch, waiting for Helena to return. Ayesha called for her, and soon Helena appeared, sitting beside her father.

"Yes, Baba?" she asked as she sat down.

Ahmed wrapped an arm around her and spoke gently, "Helena, as your father, I have the right to choose what's best for you."

Helena looked slightly confused and pushed away from him a little, sitting up straight. "Yes, Baba you have, you know me better than I know myself."

Ahmed smiled at her words, kissed her forehead, and continued, "Your uncle Yahya has asked for your hand for Hassam. Hassam likes you, and Yahya wants to fix your marriage with him. In my eyes, there's no one better than Hassam. You both know each other well, and I think you'd make a great couple."

Helena stared at her father, processing his words, while Zaim's eyes widened, his heart pounding as if it might burst but he forced himself to stay silent. Ahmed noticed Helena's silence, he added, "If you consent to this relationship, should I consider it settled?"

Ryan looked at Zaim whose gaze fixed on Helena and his eyes were burning in anger.

Before Helena could respond, Fatima chimed in with a cheerful tone, "That's great news, Baba! Hassam is well-mannered and sensible. He's a good choice for Helena. You should say yes."

Zaim was unable to hold back any longer, interjected, "But Helena hasn't agreed to this. Her consent is necessary, and it's clear she's not ready for this relationship." His distress was evident as he looked at Fatima, his face tense with worry.

Helena, still staring at Zaim, finally spoke. "Baba, say yes to them." She then thought to herself, "I can marry anyone but not you, Zaim. I won't let you win with your filthy intentions. I can't marry a womanizer."

Zaim shifted his gaze towards Helena who was already looking at him, he felt as though a heavy weight had just crushed his chest. He swallowed hard, a lump forming in his throat, making it difficult to speak. His heart ached, breaking into pieces as he clenched the couch cover in his fists, gritting his jaw to control the storm of emotions swirling inside him.

"MAshallah my beautiful daughter, a piece of my heart." Helena shifted her gaze towards Ahmed with a smile. Ahmed pulled her near him and wrapped her around her back he caressed her back of her head gently and continued,

"Ok so I'll inform Yahya tomorrow and fix the date."

Zaim suddenly stood up, his movements sharp and abrupt. Sensing the shift in his mood, Ryan quickly stood as well and asked in a hurry, "Where are you going? Stay for some tea." Ryan could tell Zaim was upset by Helena's decision and worried he might act impulsively.

But Zaim ignored him, striding out of the house and heading straight to the Mohammadi villa. The others watched him go but didn't stop him, sensing that it was best to let the situation unfold on its own.

As Zaim reached the Mohammadi villa, he straight into the hall, his steps quick and determined, searching for Ali, but there was no sign of him. He got Frustrated, he searched Ali to the study, then moved to Ali's room, flinging the door open with a sudden jerk, but he found it empty. Finally, he made his way to the garden area, where he found Ali sitting with Jessica. Ali was engrossed in a phone conversation with his manager.

Jessica noticed Zaim first and subtly signaled Ali about his presence, but Ali remained focused on his call. Zaim took a seat in front of Ali, which surprised Ali, as Zaim rarely joined them in such settings. Zaim waited impatiently, glancing around the garden and tapping his foot as his arms gripped the chair's curved handles.

After a while, Ali ended the call, though his attention stayed on his phone. In a cold tone, he said, "You never liked to sit with us. What brings you here now?"

Zaim scoffed, sensing the coldness in Ali's tone, that Ali didn't happy to see him, but he brushed off the thought. It wasn't the most important issue. After clearing his throat, Zaim asked, "Why haven't you spoken to Uncle Ahmed about my proposal to Helena?"

Ali glanced at Zaim briefly before returning his focus to his phone. Jessica observed them closely as Ali responded, "I'm not going to speak to him again. I've already told you. I still have some respect left in front of him. Don't push me on this, Zaim."

Zaim was about to argue when Jessica interjected, surprising Zaim as she rarely supported him so openly. "What's wrong with the proposal, Ali? You agreed before, so what's changed? If they both like each other, why are you denying it?"

Ali looked between them, his gaze settling on Jessica. "On what grounds should I go to him again? That my son, who insulted his daughter, now wants me to arrange this marriage again? I'm not as shameless as he is, Jessica."

Zaim's shock turned to defensiveness as he quickly retorted, "What have I done? I've told you before, it was a misunderstanding. If you'd told me earlier, this wouldn't have happened." His voice raised slightly, showing his frustration.

Ali's anger began to rise, and he snapped, "First, watch your tone when you talk to me. I'm your father, not your servant. Understand?" His voice grew louder as he continued, "And you, Jessica, don't pressure me about this matter. I'm already embarrassed in front of her and her family."

Zaim looked at him in disbelief then insisted with the same intensity,

"I LOVE HELENA, DAD. WHY DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND? THEY'RE GOING TO FIX HER MARRIAGE WITH SOMEONE ELSE. I CAN'T BEAR THE THOUGHT OF HER BEING WITH ANOTHER MAN. I'LL DIE WITHOUT HER, DAD. PLEASE, TRY TO UNDERSTAND."

Ali stared at him in shock before replying, "Whatever it is, I'm not going to talk to him again. He has the right to choose the right man for his daughter, and Helena deserves the right one."

Zaim abruptly stood up, "Helena belongs to me! I won't let anyone else have her! If you don't talk to him tomorrow, I'll leave this house forever, and you'll never see my face again. You'll yearn for it." He attempted to blackmail Ali, hoping it might be his only way to convince him.

Ali also stood up and his expression stern. "If you want to leave, then go ahead. I lived without you for seven years. I yearned for you too, but you never came. I lived without you before, and I can do it again. But don't you ever try to blackmail me. Don't forget that I'm your father."

Jessica glanced back at Zaim, who was still staring at Ali's back, his face a mix of rage and disbelief. When Zaim looked at Jessica, she reassured him with a blink before leaving as well, leaving him alone with his turbulent thoughts.

Fuming in anger he also stormed to his room, slamming the door with such force that the sound echoed through the villa. Inside, he burst out his anger, throwing things to the floor and breaking everything in sight. He ripped the bed sheets off, threw pillows and cushions to the ground, and shattered his favorite cologne bottles. In his fury, he punched the mirror with all his strength, the glass shattering under his fist, which began bleeding instantly.

Zaim had always been a man of intense anger, known as "wildfire" during his high school years, a nickname that followed him since childhood.

Jessica, already heard the sounds of destruction, said while entering the room, "Why are you being so stubborn, Ali? Let him have his happiness. If his happiness is with Helena, then why are you denying it? You liked her for Zaim too."

Ali half-turned towards Jessica, his face a mix of frustration and resignation. "I'm not being stubborn. I agreed to their marriage because of you. You liked Helena for Zaim, but look at what he's done. Everything is in front of you, Jessica. He ruined everything."

He then turned back, scrolling through his phone as if to end the conversation. "And that's the end of it. I don't want to hear about this again." With that, he placed his phone on the nightstand and went to the washroom to change into his nightclothes, leaving Jessica standing there, her heart heavy with concern.

On the next morning, Zaim woke up due to his brain alarm. He scanned his room, His room was exactly the way he had left it the night before, messy and disorganized. As he sat up, a sharp pain shot through his hand, and he hissed as the injury from his broken mirror throbbed with an intense, he felt a burning sensation.

He hadn't bothered to dress the wound the previous night. Standing up, he moved to his cupboard, taking out a first aid kit from the shelf. He began to wrap a bandage around his fist.

After completing his morning routine and performing Fajr Salah, Zaim grabbed his wallet and phone from his bed and headed out for a jog. Upon returning to the villa, he went straight to his room. After a quick shower, he picked up his phone from the nightstand and dialed Ryan's number. It rang a few times before Ryan answered, his voice thick with sleep.

"Assalamualaikum," Ryan greeted, barely opening his eyes.

"Walaikum assalam, Meet me at 10. I'm coming to see you." Zaim replied curtly.

Ryan pulled his phone away from his ear to check the time, then placed it back against his ear.

"Man, why so sudden? We can meet in the evening."

"I won't repeat myself, Ryan."

Zaim's tone was final, and before Ryan could protest further, Zaim ended the call.

Ryan sighed deeply, tossing his comforter aside as he reluctantly got out of bed.

Zaim changed into fresh clothes, adding a black cap and shades to complete his look. He descended the stairs and instructed Clara to clean his room, then headed to his garage. He chose his McLaren P1 from his collection, stepping inside and driving off.

He reached the Ahmadi house and parked a little way off. After taking a moment to collect his thoughts, he called Ryan again, his eyes fixed on the house's exterior.

"Yes, Zaim?"

"I'm outside. Come out quickly."

Yahh bro have patience I'm coming, you don't have shame istg....

Ryan muttered, frustrated, but Zaim had already hung up.

A few moments later, Ryan emerged from the house, scanning the area for Zaim's car. Zaim honked to get his attention, and Ryan spotted him, tilting his head in exaggerated annoyance.

He gestured that he had seen Zaim and closed the main gate behind him. Still dressed in his comfy trousers, t-shirt, and slippers, Ryan walked over to Zaim's car, opened the door, and got in.

"What brings you here this early?" Ryan asked roughly, still shaking off sleep.

"What if we kidnap Helena?"

Ryan turned to Zaim with a shock look. "What? What do you mean by 'we'?"

"I'll kidnap her, and you will support me."

Ryan's face twisted in disbelief. "Are you out of your mind? Kidnap her for real? I'm not getting involved in this mess, Zaim. Don't count on me."

He reached for the door handle, but Zaim quickly locked the doors from his side.

"Don't act like you don't know the situation. Helena hates me. She'll marry someone else just to spite me. I know that. and you are the one who could help me in this matter, I can't let that happen, Ryan. I can't bear the thought of her with another man. I'll either destroy him or take her away myself."

He stopped and realized that Ryan looking at him with disbelief look then Ryan said . "This could be dangerous. What makes you think that kidnapping her will make her agree to marry you? She's Helena-she'll hate you even more. Don't do something stupid. Not every time does fate work out in your favor."

"But I can't let it happen, Ryan. Don't you understand? I'd rather die than see her with someone else."

Ryan, exasperated, shot back, "You're unbelievable, Zaim. If you know that she hates you then what makes you think she'll care if you die? She couldn't care less bro! use your brain She might even come and put flowers on your grave, bet on it."

Zaim grabbed his hair in frustration, shouting, "Agh why is she so complicated huh?, he stopped looking at Ryan then continued, "Ok Then tell me what I should do to get her! Because I can't let her marry anyone else. Ryan, I've yearned for her for seven years. I've lost her too many times. I can't lose her again now that I've found her. If you won't help me, I'll do something on my own.

And you know Mr. Ali isn't agreeing to this, and you know why."

After seeing Zaim's desperation, Ryan suggested, "Why don't you talk to him yourself?"

Zaim looked at Ryan, considering the idea. "But what if he says no?"

"Try at least once," Ryan persisted. "What if he agrees after you ask him?"

Without another word, Zaim opened the car door and ready to step out but Ryan, sensed the urgency he asked, "Where are you going?"

"To the Ahmadi house. You said I should talk to him," Zaim replied.

Ryan sighed deeply, and said. "Alright, let's go."

He knew there was no stopping Zaim when it came to Helena.

They arrived at the Ahmadi house, and Ryan rang the bell. Helena opened the door, her gaze falling first on Ryan, then on Zaim standing behind him, still wearing his shades. he always mesmerized every girl to drool over him but here the matter of Helena, she didn't even a little impressed by his look.

Their eyes met, and Zaim's heart raced after seeing Helena so fresh and glowy. But Helena merely rolled her eyes, turned, and walked away.

As they entered the lounge, they found Fatima feeding Jibreel. She looked up and saw Zaim just as Ryan asked, "Where's Baba?"

Fatima replied while wiping Jibreel's mouth, "He went to buy some groceries just now."

Ryan exchanged a glance with Zaim, who looked back at him.

Helena, irritated by their presence, left the room and headed towards her own, while Zaim's eyes followed her retreating figure,

After waiting for two hours with no sign of Ahmed, Zaim reluctantly decided to leave and come back later.

In the evening, Zaim drove back to the Ahmadi house, as determined as ever. He spotted Ahmed sitting in the garden, reciting the Quran. The sight made Zaim smile, He approached Ahmed and greeted him with a polite, "Assalamualaikum, uncle."

Ahmed raised his head, closed the Quran with a gentle kiss, and replied, "Walaikum assalam, Zaim. Sit." He gestured for Zaim to sit with him. Zaim sat, while looking at Ahmed in nervousness, that caused Ahmed to take off his glasses and ask, "What brings you here?"

After clearing his throat in nervousness, Zaim tried to muster the courage. "Uncle, actually..." He hesitated, then finally said, "If you permit me, can I take my Rose to my house for the rest of my life?"

Ahmed looked at him, puzzled. "What do you mean?"

Zaim quickly dropped to his knees on the grass, grabbing Ahmed's hands and said in one go "I...i mean, if you permit, can I marry Helena? I love her deeply, and I can't bear the thought of her with anyone else. Please, uncle, don't refuse me. I'm perfect for her."

Ahmed become normal, already knowing the depth of Zaim's feelings. Helena, who had been standing near the lounge gate, witnessed the entire scene. Anger flared inside her, and she glared at Zaim with disgust.

Ahmed gently removed his hands from Zaim's grip and placed them on his arms instead. "Stand up, Zaim. Go home and ask your father first."

Zaim stayed on his knees, desperation clear in his eyes. "Uncle, I know you have doubts because of everything that happened, but I swear, I'll do whatever it takes to make Helena happy. Please, give me a chance to prove my love. No one can love her like I do."

Ahmed sighed and said again the same thing. "Zaim, stand up and go home. Ask your father."

Rage bubbled up inside Zaim, though he tried to control it, because his anger is for Ali knowing it was Ali's reluctance that was blocking his path to Helena. He stood slowly, turning to leave, but as he did, his gaze locked with Helena's, he took a deep sigh and looked at her with his doe and innocent eyes and his heart raced again, lost in her he kept looking at her, Helena looked at him with full fury and turned back her body then stormed off.

Zaim's heart raced even faster. He snapped back to reality, glanced at Ahmed with a resigned look, and left.

He was full of his rage and a lava started to erupt throughout his whole body.

Driving back to the Mohammadi villa, Zaim's anger continued to simmer. He stopped his car in front of the hall gate and stepped outside the car Zaim stepped fastly in the hall and stopped near the couch but a little far where Ali was in the middle of a meeting with one of his managers. He then said while looking at him with angry eyes.

"Why do you always become an enemy of my happiness, huh? Why can't you just fix my marriage with Helena? It's the first thing I've ever asked of you!"Ali calmly Closed the file and passed it to his manager, signaled him to wait for him in the garden area, manager left then Ali stood up from his spot and said,

"I fixed your marriage with Helena."

"I'm telling you dad I won't let this happen." just then he stopped, and froze, his anger replaced by shock, he said, "what? What did you say?"

Ali exchanged a knowing look with Jessica, who was sitting nearby with a smile. Holding back a laugh.

"Jess he is completely beyond my mind, first he pleaded me to fix his relationship with Helena and now he said he can't let this happen." then he moved his head towards Zaim who was still stunned and said again,

"You heard it right, What do you want now Mr Zaim ?"

Zaim walked near him with fast steps And wrapped him around his waist and hugged him tightly with closed eyes , he didn't realize that what he was doing as he couldn't believe in Ali's words.

"Thankyou so much for this." Ali patted his back gently and replied with a brightest smile on his face, "anything for you my son."

Zaim realized that he hugged him just then he pulled away and cleared his throat while rubbing the back of his nape , he said in hesitation, I, uh....i need to go.

He went upstairs to his room and closed the door while he was continously smiling a lot, as he reached inside his room he started dancing in celebration, he went all crazy and the words that Ali said continously playing in his mind, and he pumped his fist in the air. "Yes, yes, yes! Just a few more days, Rose, and you'll be mine forever. I promise."

He grabbed a cushion and twirled it around, laughing out loud. Lost in his celebration, he was quiet happy and imagined every scene after his marriage with Helena, he was caught off guard when a knock on the door startled him. Turning his head, he saw the maid standing with a tea trolley, he hesitated a little because his maid saw him dancing madly for the first time, the maid suppressed her laugh because she witnessed about his rudeness,

"Yes?" Zaim asked, trying to compose himself.

"Sir, your tea," she replied, still amused.

"Bring it in," he rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. As she left the room, he flopped onto the bed, half-hanging off the edge, he caressed the bed sheet and said,

"I wonder how cute you'll look sleeping next to me, I can't wait more to sleep next to you my baby girl, my cutest red rose." he mused out loud, imagining Helena by his side. He then lay straight and looking at the ceiling while his both hands placed on the back of his neck.

"Ahhh i can't wait for the day when you're with me for the rest of my life."

Two days later, the Ahmadi family was invited to the Mohammadi villa for dinner. The families decided it was time to discuss the wedding preparations in person.

Helena, dressed in a beige long cardigan gown with a hijab wrapped around her neck, complemented by a small purse and white mini heels, was less than thrilled.

She was not in a mood to go but She agreed to the marriage only to please her father, convinced that she could always seek a separation later. To her, this was just a fake marriage, and she had no intention of ever developing feelings for Zaim. She trusted her father's judgment, but little did she know, her destiny was about to become even more complicated.

After a short drive, they reached the Mohammadi villa, where the guards were already present to welcome them. Zaim had instructed each of his guards to greet them with no mistakes and with utmost respect.

As both cars stopped in front of the giant structure of the Mohammadi villa, the guards approached the vehicles. Each guard opened each door of a car and greeted the occupants with "Assalamualaikum." Although the guards were not Muslims, they obeyed Zaim's orders without question.

After getting out of the car, Ahmed handed over the gift bags that he and Ayesha had brought for the Mohammadi family to the guards. They then made their way towards the hall gate, where Ali and Jessica were waiting.

Jessica warmly hugged Ayesha, Nura, and Fatima, while Ali embraced Ahmed, Ryan, and Faris with affection. Helena, who was walking behind everyone, approached with her eyes lowered. Zaim stood beside Ali, holding his cat, Ellie, in his arms, his eyes fixed on Helena with love and innocence, without blinking.

As Helena reached the hall gate, she made brief eye contact with Zaim before shifting her gaze to Jessica, who was looking at her lovingly. Jessica spread her arms wide with a warm smile and said,

"Ah, Jessica's precious diamond, you've kept us waiting long enough." She wrapped Helena in a gentle hug and caressed her back with affection before kissing her forehead Helena pressed her lips into thin line Jessica then looked Helena over, admiring her beauty and outfit.

Zaim, still standing in the same spot, couldn't take his eyes off Helena.

Jessica then gestured for everyone to enter the hall. They all sat on the couches, with Zaim sitting directly across from Helena, still gazing at her, as if he never wanted to look away.

Maids began to serve refreshments. Ali, sitting beside Ahmed, broke the silence by saying, "Thank you so much, Ahmed, for agreeing to this marriage once again. I can't tell you how much I was 'blackmailed.' " He added with a playful, dramatic tone, which made everyone chuckle. "Im indebted to you."

Ahmed laughed a little and replied, "Stop being dramatic, Ali. I know you too well. You never cave in to blackmail. Remember how many times I tried to convince you to join the band, but you refused every single time." They all laughed at this, but Helena, who had been looking at Ali uncertainly, took his earlier statement seriously.

She began to assume the worst, thinking Zaim must have blackmailed Ali into arranging the marriage. She sighed sarcastically and rubbed her wrist, missing her bracelet. Zaim, observing her every action, realized that she must be missing her bracelet and that it was precious to her.

Ahmed then asked, "What's a suitable date for the nikkah? If you're free, we could hold it this upcoming Friday." Helena raised her head, looking at Ahmed with slight shock and disbelief, which Zaim quickly noticed.

Jessica responded, "That's a great idea! I'll arrange everything-the venue, the meal, the shopping. You just have to show up. And as for Helena's dress for the nikkah, that will be from my side. I know if I offer you the outfits, you all will refuse, so at least let me take care of Helena's dress, okay?"

Everyone laughed at her statement. Then, Zaim, still looking at Helena, who was staring at her lap, said,

"The nikkah will be held at the Ka'aba."

_______________________________________

A/N

Ahhh finally we are close to the grand wedding of the my love birds. These are really the cutest, aren't they?

How was the episode? Tell me in the comments and don't forget to vote guyz.

Love from Ann 🤌🏻💕