Chapter 11, Two Stories
Zeenat sat at her desk, eyes glued to the screen as she meticulously cross-checked her project details. With the department lead absent, she was tasked with presenting their work to Rayyan in just 30 minutes. Beside her was Mariya, her 21-year-old colleague and closest friend, assisting with the final touches. Mariya's presence offered Zeenat a sense of calm amid the pressure.
Across the room, Aisha, a rich and intelligent 22-year-old who earned her position through both dedication and connections, applied makeup. Faruk, her 29-year-old closest friend and confidant, leaned against the desk, watching her with amusement.
"You're doing all this for Rayyan, aren't you?" Faruk teased. "I heard he's married."
Aisha chuckled, unfazed. "So what? He can marry two wives."
Zeenat's fingers paused on the keyboard. She couldn't believe Aisha's boldness in chasing after her husband. Aisha had done reckless things before, but going after a married man was a new low. Yet, part of Zeenat found the situation amusing. Maybe if Aisha succeeded, she'd finally be free from Rayyan's cold and distant behavior.
Faruk shook his head. "I think you should focus on your work instead. The guy is a doctor. If your work doesn't meet his standards, you might end up losing two things at once."
Mariya snorted at his comment, finding it both funny and true.
Aisha shot him a glare before turning her attention to Zeenat and Mariya. From her seat a little farther away, she suddenly snapped, "What exactly is going on between you and Rayyan zeenat? I've seen you following him around. Are you trying to catch his attention?"
Mariya, unable to hold back, snapped, "What are you implying? Is she like you?"
Aisha had done this countless times, always targeting Zeenat for the slightest, most ridiculous reasons. And each time, Mariya stood up for her friend, even though Zeenat wasn't always comfortable with her interference.
Aisha flushed with embarrassment but quickly tried to regain her composure. "Warn your friend to stay away from him," she said coldly.
Mariya was ready to fire back, but Zeenat gently held her hand, signaling her to stay silent.
Zeenat refused to engage in unnecessary drama. Mariya, who knew the truth about Zeenat's marriage to Rayyan, found the situation entertaining now thinking about it, but kept her laughter in check. If not for Zeenat's warning, Mariya would have revealed the truth to Aisha.
To Zeenat, being Rayyan's wife was nothing to be proud of.
Mariya grinned but nodded in agreement.
Zeenat's real concern was Rayyan's professionalism during the presentation. With 2 representatives from three departments set to showcase their projects, she prayed he wouldn't embarrass her.
Aisha, on the other hand, viewed Zeenat as her biggest rival. Their close ranks fueled Aisha's determination to outshine her. She also had a project to present to Rayyan.
As the clock ticked closer to the meeting, tension filled the room. Zeenat took a deep breath and focused on her work, determined to maintain her professionalism despite the brewing rivalry that meant little to her.
They have just few minutes left.
___
Rayyan was seated in his office, his head resting against the armchair, when he felt someone place their arms on his shoulders. He already knew who it was.
"Anaya, I don't want to see you right now. Leave my office," Rayyan said without even looking up.
"Uhmm... please don't stay mad at me for too long. Forgive me, Rayyan," Anaya pleaded.
He finally opened his eyes and looked at her. She was standing behind him, her arms draped over his shoulders in an attempt to soften him.
He sighed, removing her hands from him. "Fine, Anaya. But only if you stop doing that."
She obeyed and took a seat across from him.
Rayyan's frustration simmered beneath the surface. He was still angry at her for accepting to stay in the marriage. From the beginning, he had wanted them both to leave and return to the States, believing their father would eventually come to terms with their decision. But at the last minute, Anaya had chosen to stay. Her decision made his own refusal even more unforgivable in their father's eyes.
"Rayyan, I think this marriage isn't so bad," Anaya said carefully. "How is your wife by the way?"
She knew he wouldn't entertain the question, but she asked anyway.
Rayyan didn't even glance at her, flipping through some documents. "I hope this isn't why you came here," he muttered.
"Come on, Rayyan," she pressed. "I've met your wife. She's friendly, nice, and beautiful. Much better than her brother, who always wants everything to go his way."
Rayyan froze mid-motion, his fingers pausing on the papers. He lifted his gaze to her.
"Did you come here to talk to me about her?" Rayyan asked before adding, "And regarding her brother, I hope he is not treating you bad."
"Nothing much for me not to be able handle as long as I win the project," Anaya told him.
Rayyan said nothing to that, so Anaya spoke again. "So, you still haven't told me about your wife," she asked once more.
"Anaya, please stop this. Don't ruin my mood. You know this is not what I want," Rayyan replied.
Anaya got the message. She understood what he was trying to tell her. Without saying another word, she rose from her seat. Rayyan wouldn't listen to her anytime soon, and she knew that's just how he was.
"Fine, Rayyan. I'll be going now," Anaya said, informing him about her new office before leaving.
____
The conference room buzzed with quiet tension as employees from various departments eagerly awaited their turn to present. Everyone was on edge, hoping to impress Rayyan, the CEO's son and the soon-to-be CEO. His presence alone commanded attention, and his cold, distant demeanor only added to the pressure.
Zeenat sat quietly at the far end of the table, clutching her notes with Mariya beside her. She had worked tirelessly on her project, pouring in hours of effort. Yet, deep down, she feared what Rayyan would do this time.
One by one, her colleagues presented their projects, each doing their best to gain Rayyan's approval. He listened attentively, occasionally offering brief feedback or nodding in acknowledgment.
"Good analysis, but you need to work on the data accuracy," Rayyan commented to Amir, who beamed at the acknowledgment.
When Aisha's turn came, she stood confidently, her smile widening as she adjusted her scarf. Her tone was overly sweet, and her gestures were unnecessary, clearly trying to catch Rayyan's attention.
"As you can see, Mr. Rayyan, I've put in exceptional effort to ensure this strategy aligns perfectly with the company's goals," Aisha said, throwing subtle glances his way.
Rayyan's gaze barely lingered on her as he replied, "Your effort is noted. However, you need to improve the market analysis section."
Aisha's smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered, and responded, "Of course. I'll make the adjustments."
Zeenat observed the interaction with a heavy heart. Though Rayyan's response to Aisha was distant, at least he acknowledged her. For Zeenat, however, it felt as though she didn't exist in the room.
Finally, it was Zeenat's turn. She stood up with a bit of confidence, forcing a small smile to mask her fears, and prayed deep down that Rayyan wouldn't do anything to humiliate her.
"I'll be presenting our team project, which focuses on innovative strategies for property development and client acquisition..."
Before she could finish her sentence, Rayyan glanced at his watch and abruptly rose from his seat.
"I have something urgent to attend to now. We'll continue tomorrow," he announced coldly, without sparing her a glance.
He walked out of the room, leaving Zeenat standing mid-sentence, humiliated in front of everyone.
A wave of silence swept through the room. Some exchanged awkward glances, while others pitied her.
Aisha smirked, seizing the moment to taunt her. "Well, that was awkward. Seems like someone isn't as important as she thought," she murmured, loud enough for Zeenat to hear.
Mariya shot Aisha a glare. "You're unbelievable," she snapped, but Zeenat gently tugged on her arm, signaling her to let it go.
Zeenat's face burned with embarrassment, but she bit her tongue and quickly gathered her files. Mariya rushed to her side as they exited the room.
"Forget about him, Zeenat," Mariya whispered, trying to console her. "You did your best. It's his loss if he can't see that."
Zeenat remained silent, her heart heavy with disappointment.
As she reached her office, her phone buzzed. It was a call from Mr. Abbas. Without hesitation, she rose and left to meet him.
___
Rayyan was about to drive to one of their sponsored's company when the passenger door suddenly opened, and someone slipped into the seat beside him. He turned, expecting to see one of anyone, but to his utter disbelief, it was Zeenat.
His eyes narrowed in frustration. This girl just wouldn't listen.
Rayyan clenched the steering wheel and looked away, silently praying for patience.
"What do you think you're doing here?" he asked, his voice laced with irritation, struggling to maintain his composure.
Zeenat lowered her gaze, her tone apologetic. "I'm sorry... it's your father. He asked me to accompany you."
Rayyan's brows furrowed. "To do what exactly?"
"In case you might need help with anything..." Zeenat trailed off as she noticed the intense glare he shot her.
Rayyan let out a frustrated hiss and started the engine, his annoyance evident. Without another word, he accelerated out of the parking lot, the car surging forward at an alarming speed.
Zeenat gripped the edge of her seat, her heart pounding as the car weaved through traffic with unsettling ease. "Rayyan, please... slow down," she pleaded, her voice trembling.
Her words only seemed to fuel his frustration. He pressed harder on the accelerator, the engine roaring as they sped down the road.
Realizing that her protests were making things worse, Zeenat fell silent, her fingers curling tightly around the seatbelt. She prayed silently for their safety and for Rayyan's temper to cool.
The tension between them hung heavy in the air, unspoken words and emotions swirling around as the city lights blurred past.
Deep down, Zeenat wondered if there would ever come a day when Rayyan would see her as more than just an unwanted presence in his life.
As Rayyan pulled up at the company's headquarters, Zeenat reached for the door handle, ready to step out.
"Zeenat Muhammad."
His cold, unexpected voice halted her movement.
Startled, she turned to him, her eyes widening. Rayyan had never addressed her by her by her name talkless of her full name. She hadn't even known he was aware of it.
"I'm warning you-keep your mouth shut while I do my work," he said, his tone sharp and unyielding.
Zeenat swallowed hard, lowering her gaze. "But I thought... we're a team. We're supposed to support each other," she murmured.
Rayyan's eyes narrowed. "Did I ask for your support?"
Her heart sank. What was the point of being here if he wouldn't let her contribute?
Without another word, Rayyan pushed open the car door and stepped out. Zeenat hesitated before following, keeping her distance.
---
Inside the Company
The executives welcomed Rayyan warmly, recognizing him as the CEO's son and future head of Ahmed Global Enterprises. Zeenat stood slightly behind, feeling invisible until she stepped forward with quiet confidence after demanded
"I'm Zeenat, Rayyan's co-worker."
Rayyan shot her a subtle, disapproving glance, as if her presence undermined his authority. Yet, the executives, extended a warm welcome to her as well.
The Outcome
By the end of the presentation, the executives were thoroughly impressed.
"Ahmed Global Enterprises has proven to be the perfect partner for this venture," the CEO of the the company declared. "And Miss Zeenat, your knowledge of the Nigerian market is truly commendable. Alongside Mr. Rayyan's expertise, we look forward to working with both of you."
Applause filled the room. They had secured the deal.
Without a word or glance at Zeenat, Rayyan turned and walked out.
Zeenat hesitated, her heart pounding. At least they didn't lose the project. That was what mattered... even if Rayyan couldn't see it yet..
Rayyan entered his car in haste, and Zeenat quickly followed, not wanting to be left behind. Unlike earlier, she maintained a calm expression this time, rather than the frightened look she wore during his reckless driving.
May Allah protect someone's child, she silently prayed, knowing he wouldn't slow down just because of her.
The journey back to his father's company was filled with silence. Zeenat expected him to lash out at her for speaking during the presentation, but to her surprise, he said nothing.
Midway, Rayyan suddenly pulled over near a mosque. Zeenat turned to him, confused.
He was about to step out when he noticed she hadn't moved.
"Won't you pray?" he asked, gesturing toward the mosque.
"Oh... you're right," Zeenat replied, tearing her confused gaze away from him. She had almost forgotten it was close to prayer time. This was the same mosque she and her friend Mariya, along with some other Muslim colleagues from Thier company, often prayed at.
What surprised her was how Rayyan spoke to her without his usual harshness.
They went their separate ways-Zeenat to the female section and Rayyan to the male section.
Once the prayer was done, they walked back to the car. However, Rayyan bypassed the car and headed straight to a nearby restaurant. Without hesitation, Zeenat followed. It was break time, after all, and she was starving.
Rayyan settled on a seat, and Zeenat quickly took the seat opposite him.
Rayyan ordered a simple meal with just water, while Zeenat ordered a full meal, along with a milkshake, yogurt, and ice cream. She felt his gaze on her as she placed her order, but he said nothing.
Even she knew this was a lot, but she still had to celebrate them securing a project together, Zeenat thought.
When their meals arrived, Zeenat couldn't help indulging in her food, alternating between her yogurt, ice cream, and milkshake.
Rayyan ate quietly, occasionally glancing at her. He was sure she was up to something.
"You should really try some ice cream or yogurt, Rayyan. Life tastes better with these," Zeenat said, sliding her ice cream toward him.
Rayyan remained silent, setting his spoon aside and taking a sip of water.
Then, to Zeenat's surprise with an expression that caught her off gaurd, he asked, "Are you celebrating outshining me or embarrassing me?"
"Oh Allah, is this what he thinks of me? Why the accusation?" Zeenat thought, her heart sinking.
"Despite warning you not to interfere with my work, why did you go ahead and do it?" Rayyan's voice rose, drawing attention from nearby diners.
Oh Allah, she didn't know he would bring it up. And even if he would, why not earlier in the car? Why here in the restaurant? In the public eye?
"Rayyan, please... let's talk about this later," Zeenat pleaded softly. This was the third time he had embarrassed her, but this time, it was worse to her.
"You've made me look incompetent in front of my father's business partners!" Rayyan continued, ignoring her plea as Zeenat fought back tears.
A waiter cautiously approached. "Sir, please lower your voice. You're disturbing other customers."
Rayyan barely acknowledged the waiter, muttering under his breath, "Oh Allah, what mistake did I commit for my father to give me this girl as a wife?"
Zeenat's heart shattered at his words. Her patience, which she had clung to for so long, finally snapped.
"You always humiliate me, and now you're speaking about our marriage in public as if I forced you into it. Have you forgotten that I never chose this marriage either? It was your father's decision," Zeenat said, her voice trembling with emotion.
"When I accepted this marriage, I hoped we could at least be friends. I thought you'd be mature enough to treat me with respect. I've been patient and kind, trying to make this marriage work, but you've done nothing but push me away. You've drained every ounce of patience I had, Rayyan. I hate this marriage more than you do, and you never fail to give any reason not to."
Rayyan's expression froze as her words struck him. He was left speechless, staring at the girl in front of him in disbelief.
"If you knew you'd treat me this way, you should have rejected the marriage from the start," Zeenat's voice trembled with frustration. "In everything I do, I strive to be just for the sake of Allah. But you... you chose to go through with this marriage only to treat me with cruelty. Is this how you intend for us to continue?"
She took a deep breath, her emotions overflowing. "For your information, I only stepped in to help during the presentation to prevent Mr. Abbas from losing a crucial deal and to protect the hard work of the employees who had been dedicated to the project long before you arrived. It was never about pride or showing off."
Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she added, "Can't you understand that teamwork is about supporting one another, not tearing each other down? Just because I helped you doesn't mean I was trying to embarrass you. No one is above mistakes, Rayyan. If you think you're too perfect to be corrected, then next time, learn everything before stepping into the boardroom."
Zeenat's face hardened with regret. "I hate you, Rayyan. I regret the day I married you."
Without waiting for his response, she adjusted her jalbab niqab to cover her face properly, rose from her seat, and walked away, leaving her untouched meal behind. The eyes of the onlookers followed her every step.
"Ma'am, you haven't paid yet," the waiter called after her.
Zeenat didn't look back. "Let Rayyan pay. After all, he's the one who ruined my appetite," she muttered under her breath as she stepped out of the restaurant.
___
As Zeenat step out of the restaurant, the phone vibrated in her hand, her heart tightened. Mrs. Raliya. The name alone was enough to ruin her already fragile mood. She hesitated, letting the phone ring twice before finally answering.
"Hello, Zeenat," the woman's cold voice greeted her.
"Good afternoon, ma'am," Zeenat replied, her tone laced with caution.
"I need you to collect my clothes from the tailor's shop. You know the place, right?"
Zeenat's breath hitched. That secluded area was known for its eerie silence and scarce population. Zayd had strictly warned her against going there.
"But ma'am, that place is far and unsafe. Zayd told me not to go there," she said, hoping to reason with her.
Mrs. Raliya's tone sharpened. "So, marriage has made you disobedient now? I thought you knew better than to defy me."
Zeenat clenched her fists, fighting back her frustration. She couldn't afford to provoke Mrs. Raliya further.
"Fine, I'll go," she muttered.
"Good. Go now," the woman ordered before hanging up.
---
The ride to the tailor's shop was long and unsettling. The streets narrowed, the buildings seemed abandoned.
Finally reaching the shop, Zeenat collected the clothes and paid for them out of her own pocket. As she stepped outside, the dim light of the setting sun cast long shadows on the cracked pavement. The streets were nearly deserted, with only the soft rustle of the wind as her companion.
Clutching the bag tightly, she scanned the road for a ride. A strange sensation crawled up her spine, as if unseen eyes were watching her every move. She shook off the feeling and began walking toward the main road.
Suddenly, a firm grip yanked her from behind. A cloth, reeking of chemicals, pressed against her nose and mouth. Panic surged through her veins as she struggled, but her strength faded as the intoxicating scent invaded her senses.
Her vision blurred, darkness creeping in from the edges. The last thing she heard before succumbing to unconsciousness was a sinister whisper, "You've fallen right into the trap."