Scene 1: Daily Rhythms
The days following Eid al-Fitr settled into a comforting routine in the Richmond household. Maryam and Ayesha, both adept homemakers, managed their respective households with grace and efficiency. The aroma of freshly cooked meals wafted through the air, and the laughter of children echoed in the halls. Amina, now three, was a bundle of energy, often seen chasing after her cousin Khadija, who was always eager to share her toys and stories.
Irfan and Imran resumed their professional commitments, ensuring the household remained well-provided for. Evenings were reserved for family time, where stories were shared, and plans for the future were discussed over cups of chai.
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Scene 2: An Unexpected Call
One afternoon, as Ayesha was folding laundry, her phone buzzed with an incoming call from Pakistan. Seeing "Ammi" flash on the screen, she quickly answered.
Ayesha: "Assalamu Alaikum, Ammi!"
Mrs. Najma Shaikh: "Wa Alaikum Assalam, beta. How are you all?"
Ayesha: "We're all well, Alhamdulillah. How are things in Karachi?"
Mrs. Najma: "Everything is good, Alhamdulillah. I was calling to invite all of you to spend Eid-ul-Azha with me here in Karachi. It's been so long since we've all been together."
Ayesha: "That's a wonderful idea, Ammi. We've been thinking about visiting too."
Mrs. Najma: "I especially want to meet my new granddaughter, Amina. I've only seen her in pictures and video calls."
Ayesha: "Insha'Allah, Ammi. Irfan and Imran have already applied for leave. We'll make the arrangements and let you know."
Mrs. Najma: "I'll be waiting, beta. May Allah make it easy for all of you."
The call ended with warm duas and expressions of love.
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Scene 3: Sharing the News
That evening, the family gathered around the dining table for dinner. The aroma of biryani filled the room as Ayesha served everyone.
Ayesha: "I received a call from Ammi today. She wants us all to come to Karachi for Eid-ul-Azha."
Imran: "That's great news. I've been meaning to visit her."
Irfan: "Same here. It's been too long."
Khadija (excitedly): "Wow! We're going to meet Grandma!"
Maryam: "That's wonderful. I've only met her over video calls since our wedding."
Ayesha: "She specifically mentioned wanting to meet Amina."
Irfan: "Then it's settled. We'll finalize our plans and inform her."
The family continued their meal, discussing travel arrangements and reminiscing about past visits to Karachi.
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Scene 4: Planning the Journey
Over the next few days, Irfan and Imran coordinated with their workplaces to secure leave for the trip. They researched flight options, considering the best times and routes to ensure a comfortable journey for the entire family.
Imran: "We should book our tickets soon to get the best rates."
Irfan: "Agreed. Let's also make a list of things we need to pack and gifts to take along."
Ayesha: "I'll start preparing the list. We'll need to get some special items for Ammi."
Maryam: "I'll help with the packing. It's going to be a memorable trip."
The excitement in the household was palpable as everyone looked forward to reuniting with family in Karachi.
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Scene 5: Anticipation Builds
As the days progressed, the children grew more excited about the upcoming trip. Khadija often spoke about the stories her grandmother had told her over video calls, while Amina, though younger, sensed the excitement and joined in the preparations with her own enthusiasm.
Khadija: "I can't wait to see Grandma's garden and play with the kittens she told me about."
Amina: "Me too! Grandma!"
The adults, meanwhile, ensured all logistics were in place, from travel documents to accommodations. The anticipation of celebrating Eid-ul-Azha in Karachi, surrounded by loved ones, brought a renewed sense of joy to the household.
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End of Chapter 201: A Call from Karachi