Black Heart

Dad, I'd like to talk to you when you have some free time," she addressed her father as he sat in his home library. Jamal raised his head, adjusting his glasses, and welcomed her in. She entered and inquired about his well-being. "I'm doing well," he replied. "Do you want to discuss something?" he prompted. She responded with a yes, and he encouraged her to continue. Zabel began sharing the story of Hydr and how they had met, relaying all the details. Jamal remained silent for a moment, allowing her to finish before he spoke. "Call him this Saturday," he instructed. "I want to meet him and his family." He stood up and left the room. She felt a bit restless that her father hadn't said much, nor asked any questions. She sat there for a while, then called Hydr, relaying her father's message and asking him to be there on time. After ending the call, she joined the family at the dining table, where teasing eyes met her gaze. Ignoring the taunts, she began eating, knowing that this day had been inevitable. Eventually, everyone else left the table, leaving only her mother and sister. Her mother disclosed that her father had informed her of their earlier conversation. She added a condition: if her father didn't approve of the proposal, Zabel would have to forget about it. Zabel's face saddened as she agreed with a quiet "yes." Her mother retired to her room, but her sister remained. She offered reassurance, promising to help Zabel gain their father's approval. She even mentioned that Zabel should tell Hydr that she'd have Ferrero Rocher chocolates. With a laugh, she left the table. The eagerly awaited Saturday arrived in the blink of an eye. The family busied themselves preparing for the occasion. When the doorbell rang, it was Hydr with his parents and younger sister. They were warmly welcomed and offered drinks. Jamal, using his banker's eye, observed him from head to toe, finding him well-mannered. His family, although more modest and conservative than Jamal's, didn't define their worth. The conversation flowed, with Hydr discussing his civil engineering degree and the high-tech project he was working on. Jamal questioned him thoroughly and found him simple yet self-made, developing a sense of liking. As they all sat down to eat, the table was adorned with traditional Turkish dishes that Jamal had specifically requested. Once the meal was done, the favorite Turkish dessert, Kunafa, was served. As the meeting concluded, Hydr's father invited Jamal's family to their house. A handshake sealed the agreement. Back home, family members gathered to discuss the prospective groom. Zabel's sister-in-law voiced concerns about their class, believing Zabel deserved better. Jamal intervened, announcing that they were visiting the following Friday to determine the engagement date. Zabel smiled at her father's approval, while her mother hesitated. Jamal asserted that he found the boy well-mannered and hardworking. On the upcoming Friday, the family set off for Hydr's house. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed into the well-organized and decorated home. After a delicious meal prepared by Hydr's mother, they moved to the drawing room. Jamal initiated the conversation, expressing his trust in his daughter's sensible choices. He sought to make the relationship official if they agreed. Hydr's father responded positively, and they decided on an engagement date two weeks later. The exchange of sweets and congratulations followed, sealing the agreement."

The preparations were underway for the grand event that marked Zabel's joyous occasion, and she found herself on cloud nine. She selected an elegant silver maxi gown paired with exquisite pearl jewelry. As for the engagement venue, Jamal transformed his lawn into a magnificent marvel. Adorned in an all-white theme, the marquee exuded an air of regal opulence. Grand chandeliers graced every corner, casting a spell of a royal wedding. The focal point was a glass floor, delicately set for the ceremony, complete with a tall table displaying the precious ring.

Stepping down the flower-strewn aisle, dressed in pure white, Zabel radiated ethereal beauty. Pausing at the center of the hall, atop the glass floor where their journey would begin, Hydr extended his hand, pulling her gracefully onto the shimmering surface. With parental blessings, rings exchanged, and a burst of fireworks illuminating the night, the audience erupted in applause, recognizing this celestial pairing.

Moving to the stage, the couple took their seats, warmly receiving the heartfelt greetings of family and friends one by one. Among the attendees was Kaan, a friend of Zabel's brother from their college days. Interestingly, he was the same individual her parents and brother had once hoped to unite with her. Politely sensitive to her feelings, Kaan maintained his dignified demeanor, sustaining his friendship with her brother. Extending his congratulations and best wishes, Kaan radiated the refinement of his pious and elite background, yet remained grounded and relatable.

As the festivities unfolded, Kaan gracefully excused himself to fulfill other commitments, leaving behind an atmosphere of goodwill. The engagement ceremony continued its joyful journey, while Jamal's heart swelled with paternal pride, witnessing his daughter's radiant happiness. Amid the symphony of laughter and animated conversations, the couple ventured into a photoshoot, capturing timeless moments destined for fond remembrance.

As the event drew to a close and Zabel settled onto her bed, exhilaration coursed through her, every pulse of excitement accentuated by the shimmering ring gracing her finger. Enthralled by the seamless alignment of circumstances, she marveled at how the puzzle pieces had harmoniously converged, molding a future she could never have foreseen.

With the advent of a new day, family members congregated, enveloped in the euphoria of a flawlessly executed affair. Amidst the joyous camaraderie, Jamal adeptly steered the conversation toward the topic of establishing a marriage date. Zabel interjected, articulating her aspiration for a meticulously planned celebration. Her father gracefully acknowledged her sentiments, culminating the discourse on a note of mutual understanding.