Chapter 1
*It all started from the work place*
*Chapter 1.*
Fatima floored the accelerator, speeding through the city streets with reckless abandon. The loud music pulsated through the air, drowning out Maryam’s frantic pleas.
“Fatima, for Allah’s sake, slow down!” Maryam cried, her voice laced with fear. “What if we hit someone?”
But Fatima ignored her, her eyes fixed on the road ahead, her foot heavy on the gas. The car weaved through traffic, inches from pedestrians, who shot them annoyed glances.
Maryam clutched the armrest, her knuckles white. “Fatima, please! You’re scaring me.”
Fatima didn’t flinch, her expression a mask of determination. The car screeched to a halt outside the office, horn blaring impatiently until the gate man rushed to open the door.
As they sped into the parking lot, Maryam let out a relieved breath. “Fatima, you’re going to get us killed one day.”
Fatima flashed a mischievous grin. “Relax, nothing would happen to us dear.”
Fatima glanced sideways, a hint of defiance in her voice. “That’s how we drive every day, and nothing’s ever happened to us.”
Maryam’s silence was deafening. She gazed out the window, her eyes clouded with worry.
Fatima’s expression softened slightly. “Hey, relax. I know what I’m doing.”
But Maryam’s concern lingered, a nagging feeling that Fatima’s recklessness would one day have dire consequences.
With that they left the car.
Fatima and Maryam, 22-year-old inseparable cousins, shared a bond forged in childhood. Born just days apart, their mothers, sisters who married at the same time, had envisioned a lifelong friendship for their daughters.
Tragedy struck when they were just 10. Fatima’s mother passed away, leaving her with a gaping void. Maryam’s father succumbed to illness, leaving her with a similar ache.
Despite the losses, their families’ close ties remained unbroken. Fatima’s father and Maryam’s mother became pillars of strength, supporting each other through the hardships.
As they grew, Fatima and Maryam found solace in their friendship. They shared laughter, tears, and secrets, their bond deepening with each passing year.
Fatima, a vision of elegance, stood tall at an average height, her flawless skin radiating a warm glow. Her striking features – pointed nose, big expressive eyes, and thin lips – made her a head-turner. Her lemon-green abaya cascaded gracefully around her, accentuating her thick and curvaceous figure. A darker shade green veil framed her face, adding an air of mystery to her captivating beauty.
Maryam also rival Fatima’s beauty, she is stunning, boasted full, luscious lips and perfectly full shaped eyebrows. Her Ashe lace attire hugged her curves, while the gele draped elegantly over her shoulders, exuding sophistication. Her confident demeanor completed the picture, making her look absolutely dashing.
Just as they were about to enter the office, a sleek Rolls-Royce Phantom glided to a stop beside them. The horn’s gentle beep announced its arrival, and Fatima’s eyes widened in awe. Maryam’s gaze followed hers, and they exchanged a stunned glance.
The car’s door swung open, and Amar M Ali emerged, his chiseled features and piercing eyes commanding attention. His tailored suit accentuated his broad shoulders, and his confident smile hinted at his accomplishment.
Fatima’s cheeks flushed as she hurried towards him, her heart racing. “Masha Allah, congrats dear, the car is good.” she exclaimed, her voice barely containing her excitement.
Amar’s eyes sparkled with pride as he accepted Fatima’s congratulations. “Thanks, Fatima.” he said, running a hand over the Rolls’ sleek hood.
Amar, celebrated for his stunning good looks and vast fortune, changes cars with effortless ease, as if it’s merely a trivial indulgence.
Maryam watched from a distance, a mixture of surprise and curiosity on her face.
Fatima’s gaze lingered on Amar, her long-time crush now more captivating than ever. His wealth and good looks had made him the office heartthrob, with nearly every woman vying for his attention.
Amar’s gaze settled on Maryam, making her shift uncomfortably. Fatima swiftly handed Maryam her phone. “Take our pictures beside the car!”
Maryam obliged, snapping photos of Fatima and Amar. “You both look amazing!” she exclaimed.
As Maryam handed the phone back, Amar requested, “Maryam, take pictures with me too.” His smile was captivating.
Maryam’s hesitation was evident, but Fatima intervened, “Come on, Maryam! Just one!”
Maryam relented, her expression subdued. Fatima clicked away, capturing Amar’s warm smile and Maryam’s reserved demeanor.
The photoshoot concluded, Amar thanked Fatima and Maryam. “You’re an excellent photographer!”
____
The meeting room fell silent as Sir Abdullahi Ibrahim announced, “Amar M Ali, your team has secured the second-best contract/project at our company. Congratulations!”
Amar beamed with pride, and Fatima, seated beside him, shared his joy. Maryam, on her other side, joined in the applause.
Sir Abdullahi continued, “Amar, please submit your contract team members’ list for approval by tomorrow.”
Amar nodded, his mind already racing with the project’s details.
Seated beside Fatima’s father, Amar felt honored. His exceptional qualifications and intelligence had earned him this recognition.
Sir Abdullahi then addressed the room, “The top project is still under review. They’ve accepted the proposal, and now we’re evaluating candidates. The best fit will lead this high-profile initiative.”
Fatima’s heart skipped a beat. This was her dream project, the one she’d coveted since joining the organization six months ago. Her skills and experience made her the top contender.
Maryam turned to Fatima, her eyes shining with support. “You’ll get it, Fatima. You’re the best candidate.”
Fatima smiled, her confidence boosted by maryam’s encouragement.
As the meeting concluded, Amar began mentally outlining his team.
Fatima and Maryam returned to their office, a hub of productivity and camaraderie. Their team, comprising Abida and Ashir, welcomed them with warm smiles.
As the lead, Fatima took pride in their accomplishments, earned through tireless efforts and strategic thinking. Maryam, her trusted assistant, had been instrumental in their success.
Despite whispers about Fatima’s father, Sir Abdullahi Ibrahim, being the company’s CEO makes her a nepotistic product, Fatima and Maryam’s achievements were genuinely meritorious. Their hard work and dedication had earned them respect from colleagues.
However, the perception lingered, fueling subtle resentment. Some colleagues wondered if Fatima’s success was solely due to her family ties.
Fatima and Maryam were aware of the murmurs but focused on their goals, driven by a shared passion for excellence.
Together, they formed a formidable team, determined to silence doubters and prove their worth.
Fatima, Maryam, and their department members worked diligently. Fatima called Sabira, the office assistant, to request tea.
Sabira promptly delivered the tea, but Fatima frowned. “It’s too cold.”
Sabira apologized and remade the tea, only to receive another rejection from Fatima.
Maryam intervened, her voice gentle but firm. “Let me make the tea for you Fatima.”
Sabira looked relieved.
Maryam’s actions weren’t just about making tea; they were about mitigating Fatima’s sharp tongue.
Fatima’s demanding nature and lack of appreciation had driven away many colleagues.
Only Abida and Ashir had endured, thanks to their thick skin and Maryam’s diplomatic interventions.
As Maryam excused herself to make the tea, she thought:
“Fatima’s toughness stems from her high standards, but sometimes it’s hard to work with her.”
Maryam understood Fatima’s complexities, having being with her for so long.
Maryam headed to the kitchen to make Fatima’s tea when suddenly, she was pulled into an empty office room.
“Hey!” Maryam protested, struggling to free herself.
Amar’s mischievous grin greeted her as he shut the door.
“What are you doing?” Maryam demanded, her voice firm.
Amar’s eyes shone with hope as he asked, “Please, can we have our little talk?” His voice trembled with longing.
Maryam’s expression turned weary, her eyes rolling heavenward in frustration.
“Not this again, Amar,” she sighed.
Amar’s face lit up with determination.
“I want to marry you, Maryam,” he declared.
Maryam’s patience snapped.
Maryam rolled her eyes. “Amar, stop this.”
Amar’s change try to change the subject “You haven’t congratulated me on my new contract.”
Maryam’s brows furrowed in annoyance. “What’s there to say? Congratulations, Amar. Happy now?”
Amar chuckled. “Your enthusiasm is underwhelming.”
Maryam’s anger flared. “My congratulations don’t matter to you, Amar. You just want to gloatingly rub it in everyone’s face.”
Amar’s grin returned. “Perhaps. But I value your opinion, Maryam.”
Maryam’s voice trembled. “Amar, please. You’re close to Fatima now. Don’t jeopardize our friendship. Keep your distance from me.”
Amar’s eyes burned with intensity. “I’m not with Fatima, Maryam. I’m only pretending to be interested because of you. You’re the one I truly want.”
Maryam’s heart skipped a beat. “No, Amar. Forget me. Move on.”
Amar’s face drew closer, his voice low and urgent. “I can’t, Maryam. I’ve tried. You’re all I think about.”
Maryam’s resolve wavered as Amar’s gaze held hers.
“You always prioritize Fatima’s needs,” Amar whispered, “but she doesn’t care about anyone except herself. It’s time you prioritize yourself, Maryam.”
Maryam’s eyes widened. “Don’t say that about Fatima, Amar. She’s my bestfriend.”
Amar’s determination was unnerving. “Fatima’s the only obstacle between us. But soon, I’ll make my feelings public. I’ll propose to you, Maryam, and the world will know I love you, not Fatima.”
Maryam’s anxiety spiked. “Amar, no! Don’t do that!”
Amar’s voice was resolute. “I will, Maryam. Fatima will realize you’re the one I truly care for. Let’s see if she can sacrifice her feelings for your sake also.”
Maryam’s fear intensified. “Amar, please reconsider. You’ll ruin our friendship.”
Amar’s eyes burned with conviction. “I’d do anything to be with you, Maryam. Fatima means nothing to me.”
Maryam’s heart raced. She couldn’t let Amar come between her and Fatima.
“Amar, stop this. You’re scaring me,” Maryam pleaded.
Amar’s jaw clenched. “I’ll do whatever it takes to make you mine, Maryam. Fatima will no longer stand in our way.”
Amar stormed out of the room, leaving Maryam reeling.
She tried calling after him, “Amar, wait!” but he didn’t respond.
Maryam’s concern turned to frustration. She didn’t want to draw attention, especially with Fatima nearby.
She sighed, deciding to let him go. Confronting Amar further would only create a scene.
As she returned to the kitchen to make Fatima’s tea, Maryam’s mind whirled with worries.
How would Fatima react if she discovered Amar’s true feelings?
Would Amar’s bold move ruin their friendship?
Maryam’s thoughts swirled, her emotions tangled in a web of loyalty, friendship, and forbidden love.
Fatima looked up as Maryam returned, concern etched on her face. “Hope, everything okay?”
Maryam’s nod was curt, her eyes evasive.
Fatima noticed Maryam’s distraction but didn’t press.
Maryam hastened to finish her tasks, her movements tense.
“I’m heading out, Fatima. Got a headache,” Maryam said abruptly.
Fatima’s brow furrowed. “Hope you’re okay. Need me to walk you out?”
Maryam shook her head, already gathering her belongings.
“Rest well, then. See you tomorrow,” Fatima called after her.
As Maryam left, Fatima wondered what was troubling her usually composed friend.
_____
Break time had arrived, and Fatima’s heart skipped a beat as she anticipated her usual lunch outing with Amar and Maryam. But today, Maryam was nowhere to be found. Undeterred, Fatima made her way to Amar’s office, hoping to rekindle some sense of normalcy.
As she entered, Amar’s focused gaze remained fixed on his screen, his fingers flying across the keyboard. “Hey, Amar! Are we still on for lunch?” Fatima asked, her voice dripping with optimism.
Amar’s brusque response cut through the air like a knife. “No, Fatima. I’m busy right now. I have a lot to do.” Fatima’s smile faltered, her eyes searching for a glimmer of warmth in Amar’s expression. But his face remained impassive.
“Can’t you spare some time for me?” Fatima asked, her tone laced with hope and vulnerability. Amar’s silence was deafening, his eyes never leaving the screen. Finally, he spoke, his words dripping with dismissal. “No, Fatima. I’m busy. Please take your leave. I want to finish my work now.”
Fatima felt as though she’d been punched in the gut. Shock and heartbreak wrestled for dominance on her face. How could Amar, the man she’d grown accustomed to sharing laughs and secrets with, dismiss her so callously? Their friendship was complicated, with Amar’s occasional rudeness overshadowed by moments of charm. But today’s rejection cut deeper.
Tears pricked at the corners of Fatima’s eyes as she turned to leave, her dignity bruised and battered. The door closed behind her with a soft click, echoing the finality of Amar’s rejection.
Fatima’s vision blurred as tears of anger and hurt streamed down her face. She didn’t remember grabbing her car keys or peeling out of the parking lot. All she knew was she had to escape the humiliation.
As she sped away, her rage-fueled driving barely registered the surroundings. Suddenly, a motorbike swerved to avoid her car, and a shout pierced the air.
“Hey! Watch where you’re going!”
Fatima didn’t flinch, oblivious to the commotion she’d caused.
The motorbike’s owner, a young man with a determined look, chased after her. “Hey, stop! You spilled water all over me!” he yelled.
Fatima’s tunnel vision persisted, her focus fixed on fleeing Amar’s rejection.
Undeterred, the motorcyclist pulled ahead, blocking Fatima’s path. She slammed on the brakes, inches from collision.
Fatima burst out of her car, fury etched on her face. “Who does this?” she fumed, striding toward the bikerman. “How dare you block my path!”
The bikerman dismounted, his eyes flashing with anger. Fatima’s question hung in the air as his palm connected with her cheek, sending shockwaves through her entire being.
Fatima’s eyes widened, her face stinging. No one had ever slapped her before - not her parents, not anyone. The humiliation and pain ignited a fire within her.
“You...how dare you!” she shrieked, her voice trembling.
But before she could avenge her slap, the bikeman’s grip tightened around her wrists, his second slap leaving her reeling.
Tears streamed down Fatima’s face as she stood frozen, her world shattered.
The bikerman’s words cut deeper than his slaps. “You lack manners! Rich kids like you think they own the world, don’t they?”
His tone dripped with disdain. “You shout at people all day, don’t you?”
Fatima’s heart sank, her pride wounded.
The bikeman mounted his bike, his parting shot piercing her soul. “I’ve got an important interview; otherwise, I’d teach you a lesson.”
With a scathing look, he sped away, leaving Fatima standing alone, her dignity bruised and battered.
Fatima’s resolve hardened, her mind racing with vengeance. “He’ll pay for this,” she whispered, her voice trembling.
Born into privilege, Fatima was accustomed to getting her way. Her father, a powerful figure, ensured she wanted for nothing.
No one had ever dared cross her, let alone lay a hand on her. The bikeman’s audacity knew no bounds.
“I’ll show him his place,” Fatima vowed, her anger boiling.
She’d tell her father, and he’d make sure the bikeman regretted ever crossing her.
Who cared if he was just trying to stand up for himself?
In Fatima’s world, social status and wealth trumped everything.
That “nobody” on a “stupid bike” would soon learn the consequences of messing with the elite.
Fatima’s determination grew, her thoughts spinning with scenarios of revenge.
Fatima stormed out of the scene, leaving behind the humiliation and anger. She couldn’t face the office, couldn’t pretend everything was fine.
With a resolve born of outrage, she headed home, her mind racing with plans for vengeance.
Fatima paced, awaiting her father’s return, her anger simmering.
That day,
Even the house maids moved with caution, their eyes cast downward, avoiding even a glance at fatima. they knew better than to cross her on any day, but especially not today. normally, fatima’s mood swung like a pendulum, her temper flaring at the slightest provocation. the maids had grown accustomed to her explosive outbursts, the venomous words that cut deep, and the withering stares that left them trembling.
But today was different. fatima’s anger simmered just below the surface, a potent and unpredictable force that made the maids’ hearts quiver. they recognized the warning signs: the clenched jaw, the narrowed eyes, and the icy silence that chilled the air. one misstep could unleash a maelstrom of fury, and they dared not risk it.
Hours ticked by, but the mansion’s doors remained closed.
Exhaustion eventually claimed her, and she collapsed onto the couch, her thoughts still racing.
She recalled her father mentioning a meeting with Nexus builders limited earlier that day.
“Maybe that’s what kept him,” she thought, her mind slowly fogging.
As the night wore on, Fatima’s eyelids drooped, and she drifted into a restless sleep, her dreams infused with visions of revenge against the bikeman.
