Code and Compassion

The Aunties Intervene

Chapter 18: The Aunties Intervene

Zara and Zayd both flinched, pulling back instantly as if they had been caught doing something illegal.

Standing right next to their table was Auntie Yasmin, a close friend of Zara’s mother and one of the biggest gossips in the local Muslim community. Beside her was another prominent lady from the mosque, both holding shopping bags and staring down at Zara and Zayd with wide, ecstatic eyes.

"Zara, habibti!" Auntie Yasmin squealed, clapping her hands together. "And Zayd! Mashallah, look at you two! Your mothers told us you were 'just talking,' but seeing you here together, looking so close... Oh, my heart is bursting! Have you picked a date for the Nikah yet?"

Zara felt the blood drain from her face. Her worst nightmare was coming true. "Auntie, Assalamu Alaikum," Zara stammered, quickly closing her laptop. "It's not what it looks like. We are... we are just working on a community charity project. A business plan."

"Oh, a business plan! Of course, darling," the other auntie chimed in, winking broadly. "That’s what all the young couples call it these days. Don't worry, we won't spoil the surprise. But Zayd, you better hurry up and make it official! A beautiful girl like Zara won't wait forever, and your mother is dying to buy a new dress for the wedding!"

Zayd stood up politely, trying to salvage the situation. "Auntie, please, we respect your enthusiasm, but we are truly focusing on a professional endeavor right now. We ask for your duas (prayers) for our success, but please don't jump to conclusions."

"Such a respectful boy, Mashallah!" Auntie Yasmin giggled, clearly not listening to a word of his disclaimer. "We will leave you two to your 'business.' Give our salaams to your mothers!"

With a flurry of whispers and giggles, the two women finally hurried off toward the counter, leaving a trail of heavy perfume and absolute chaos in their wake.