The calendar pages had turned quickly. Days had flown into months, and months into a whole year. The journey of Amana Superstore had reached its second year. What started as a modest effort by Imran and Rimsha, supported by Maryam and the entire family, had now become a symbol of growth, stability, and community trust.
At the same time, their homes were filled with the laughter of children. Irfan, now one year old, had grown into a healthy, playful toddler. His innocent giggles filled Maryam's days with a new energy. Ubaid too had grown taller, sharper, and more mischievous. He had already developed a love for video games and often spent hours playing in the kids' play area of the store whenever Maryam visited.
It was on a bright morning in the office of Amana Superstore that a new discussion began, one that would combine the threads of business, family, and festivity into a single beautiful event.
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Scene 1 – The Office Discussion
The office had its usual busy rhythm. Files lay neatly stacked on one side of the desk, while the computer screen blinked with spreadsheets and daily reports. Rimsha sat across from Imran, discussing accounts. Maryam had come along with both her sons. Irfan was in her lap, playing with her bracelet, trying to put it in his mouth as babies often do. Ubaid was in the kids' corner, immersed in a racing video game, his fingers moving quickly on the joystick.
Imran leaned back in his chair and exhaled deeply.
"Alhamdulillah," he said, looking at Rimsha. "Two years… Can you believe it? Amana Superstore has not just survived but flourished."
Rimsha smiled, her eyes glowing with pride. "Yes, Imran bhai. It feels like just yesterday we cut the ribbon. And now, two years have passed. The customers trust us, the staff is loyal, and everything is running smoothly."
Maryam gently bounced Irfan in her lap, listening to their conversation with interest. "It's not just the store that has grown," she added softly. "Even our families have grown. Look at this little one," she kissed Irfan's cheek. "He's turning one in just five days."
Imran's eyes lit up as if struck by an idea. He leaned forward. "Exactly! That's what I was about to suggest. Instead of celebrating separately, why don't we merge both events? The second anniversary of Amana Superstore and Irfan's first birthday. One grand celebration!"
Maryam's face brightened instantly. "That's… actually a beautiful idea! Both milestones together—it will be double joy."
Rimsha nodded in agreement. "Yes, I love it. But…" she checked the calendar on the wall. "Only five days are left. How will we arrange everything on such short notice? Venue, catering, decorations, guests, invitations—so much to handle."
Imran waved his hand with a confident smile. "Don't worry. Leave it all to me. I'll handle the arrangements. We have an enormous place available, right under our noses."
Maryam looked at him curiously. "Where?"
Imran's smile widened. "The rooftop of Amana Superstore. It's spacious, open-air, and already ours. We can decorate it beautifully, set up food stalls, lights, music, and a stage. Trust me, it'll look magical."
Maryam's eyes sparkled with excitement at the thought. "That's perfect! Rooftop parties always feel so lively. And it will be symbolic too—celebrating above the very place that gave us success."
Rimsha clapped her hands lightly. "Then it's decided! A joint celebration. Amana Superstore's two years and Irfan's one year—two milestones in one night!"
Irfan, as if sensing the cheer, laughed loudly in Maryam's lap, waving his little arms. His laughter made everyone smile.
Imran chuckled. "See? Even the birthday boy approves."
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Scene 2 – Evening Return
By late afternoon, after finalizing some notes and discussing guest lists, Maryam gathered her things. She placed Irfan carefully in the stroller, called out to Ubaid, who was still glued to the screen.
"Ubaid beta, it's time to go home," she said.
"Ammi, just one more race, please!" he begged without looking up.
Maryam smiled knowingly. "You already said that three races ago. Come on, khatam." She took his hand gently, and he reluctantly put the joystick aside.
The family bade goodbye to Imran and Rimsha, promising to meet again tomorrow for further planning. Maryam wheeled Irfan's stroller out of the office, holding Ubaid's hand. The boys seemed happy—Ubaid humming a tune and Irfan babbling baby sounds as if narrating his own little story.
By 5 pm, Maryam arrived home. She unlocked the door, placed Irfan on the sofa, and helped Ubaid with his school bag and shoes. The house had a comfortable warmth, filled with the familiar scent of home-cooked meals.
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Scene 3 – Night Conversation with Haroon
The night settled quietly. After dinner, Maryam tucked Ubaid into bed, gave Irfan his milk, and placed him in the crib. Both boys soon drifted into peaceful sleep. She finally sat in the living room where Haroon was reading some documents, his glasses perched on the edge of his nose.
Maryam sat beside him, her eyes glowing with excitement. "Haroon, I have so much to tell you today."
Haroon looked up with a smile. "Achha? What happened at the store?"
Maryam leaned closer, her voice carrying the joy of the day. "We were in the office—me, Imran bhai, and Rimsha. They were discussing the second anniversary of Amana Superstore. Then Imran bhai suggested we merge the celebration with Irfan's first birthday."
Haroon set his papers aside, intrigued. "That's an interesting idea. Two milestones in one celebration. Saves time and makes it grander."
Maryam nodded eagerly. "Yes, and guess where he suggested we host it? On the rooftop of the superstore. He said it's huge and perfect for decorations and guests."
Haroon leaned back, picturing it. "Hmm. Rooftop parties always have a charm. Open air, city lights… It could look amazing. And it's practical too—no need to rent an expensive hall."
Maryam smiled warmly. "Exactly. I could already imagine the decorations—fairy lights hanging, colorful balloons for Irfan, banners for Amana Superstore. Music, food stalls, laughter. It'll be beautiful."
Haroon reached for her hand, squeezing it gently. "I can see how happy you are. Irfan's first birthday deserves to be special, and so does the success of Amana. You've all worked hard for this. I'm proud of you, Maryam."
Her eyes softened at his words. "It's not just me. It's a family effort. Rimsha bhabhi's management, Imran bhai's leadership, and your constant support—it's all part of this success."
Haroon nodded, his eyes thoughtful. "And Insha'Allah, this celebration will mark the beginning of even bigger successes ahead."
Maryam leaned her head on his shoulder, her heart swelling with gratitude. For her, life had been a journey of trials and blessings, and moments like these gave her strength.
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Scene 4 – Silent Hopes
As the night grew deeper, Maryam went to check on her boys. Ubaid was curled up with his toy car beside him, while Irfan slept peacefully, his tiny fists clenched. She whispered softly, "My little prince, your first birthday will be unforgettable."
She stood by the crib for a long while, thinking about how quickly time had passed. From his first cry to his first step, every memory was etched in her heart. Soon, the world would gather to celebrate not just him, but the bond of family and the success of their dreams.
She returned to Haroon, who had switched off the lights and was waiting for her. They both retired to bed with hearts full of anticipation for the coming days.
The countdown to the grand rooftop celebration had begun.