Anisa was born into a world of quiet luxury.
Her childhood home stood behind tall iron gates, guarded by pride, reputation, and expectations that weighed heavier than love. Her family was wealthy, respected, and deeply rooted in tradition. As the first child, Anisa was raised to be perfect; perfect manners, perfect education, and eventually, a perfect marriage that would benefit the family name. đĄ
But perfection never interested her.
While her parents dreamed of alliances and status, Anisa dreamed in colors and patterns. She became a designer, pouring her emotions into fabrics, sketches, and ideas that spoke louder than words. Designing was not just her career; it was her escape, the only place where she could breathe freely.
That was where she met Zayan. đ
Zayan was everything her family despised.
He came from a middle-class background, lived simply, and believed that art mattered more than money. A painter by profession, he spent his days surrounded by canvases, brushes, and unfinished dreams. His world smelled of paint and hope, not power or wealth. Yet, when Anisa first saw one of his paintings, she felt something her grand home had never given her, peace.
Their love grew quietly, away from judgmental eyes. Coffee shops, late-night conversations, shared sketches, and stolen smiles became their secret universe. Zayan saw Anisa not as a family name, but as a woman with a restless heart. And Anisa saw in him a freedom she had been denied all her life. đ
When her family found out, the reaction was ruthless.
Ultimatums replaced conversations. Threats replaced affection. She was told to choose,her family or the man she loved.
Anisa chose love. đ
She and Zayan left everything behind, turning their backs on comfort and inheritance. They moved to another city, where no one knew their names or their pasts. There, in a small registry office, they married in silence,no guests, no blessings, only trembling hands and tear-filled eyes.
For four years, they lived a life built on simplicity and devotion. đ
Their home was modest, but it was warm. Zayan painted during the day, selling his artwork whenever he could, while Anisa worked as a designer, slowly building her own identity in the industry. Some days were difficult, money was tight, and the world felt unfair,but never once did Anisa regret her choice.
Zayan was gentle, attentive, and endlessly supportive. He cooked when she was tired, listened when she doubted herself, and believed in her talent even when she didn't. Their nights were filled with laughter, dreams, and whispered promises about a future that felt unbreakable. đ
To the outside world, they were just another happy couple.
But happiness, Anisa would later learn, can be the most convincing disguise of all. đ