There was a strong wind accompanied by a storm; the entire town was in chaos. People were scrambling for shelter, while some stood still, witnessing God's power. Rufaida was standing, panic-stricken, as the approaching storm blew off her small hijab. In her confusion, she hugged her schoolbag tightly to her chest.
All this happened in front of Safuwan, who was in his car. Seeing the approaching storm, he parked his car. The hijab landed on his face, carrying a pleasant fragrance. He quickly removed it and looked at it, captivated by the scent. He opened his car door, stepped out with the hijab in hand, and walked confidently toward Rufaida. As he approached, she became more flustered, realizing she was without her hijab. She felt like running away, but he reached her quickly, bent down a little, and handed her the hijab. She hastily took it and put it on, their eyes meeting as a strange sensation passed through him.
Right then, he knew she was the woman he wanted to marry, the one he'd been dreaming of. He sighed and said, "You truly live up to your name as a woman. From the looks of it, you're coming from school, and there's a storm brewing. It's difficult to find a ride now. Would you like me to give you a lift?" She quickly shook her head and started walking briskly. He added, "It would be better if you got in so I can give you a ride before the rain starts (hmm, does he think this is a must?)." She widened her eyes and replied, "No, I thank you. God will provide me with a ride before the rain starts."
He continued to follow her, pleading for her to accept his offer, until she started feeling annoyed. She kept waiting for a ride, but all the cars were full. He kept insisting on giving her a ride, so she finally relented and got into his car.
No one spoke a word during the ride. He asked, "Which neighborhood should I drop you off at?" She directed him, and when they arrived, she thanked him and said goodbye. She crossed the street without responding to his farewell and went home. He shook his head, started his car, and drove off.
When she entered her house, she greeted her mother, who was standing by the door. Her mother returned the greeting and said, "I was just talking about you, seeing this storm. I was worried." Rufaida explained, "I had trouble finding a ride today. I was standing on the street when the storm started. I didn't get a ride, and a kind man offered to give me a lift before the rain started. At first, I refused, but when I couldn't find a ride, I accepted his offer."
Habiba, her mother, interrupted, "Did you get into a car with a stranger? After all the advice I've given you, it's all in vain! This isn't the first time." Rufaida pleaded, "I swear I've never done this before. It was only because of the storm. I promise it won't happen again, please forgive me."
Her mother softened, "I'm just trying to help you protect your dignity." Rufaida replied, "I'm sorry, ummi." Her mother sighed, "Let's forget it and be careful next time. Go and take care of your things and take a bath."
Meanwhile, Safuwan couldn't stop thinking about Rufaida all day. He couldn't concentrate; all he saw was her, especially the moment the wind blew off her hijab. Everything about her fascinated him. That evening, his friend Sulaiman visited him, and they went out together. Sulaiman noticed his distraction and asked, "What happened today? I didn't see you at the mosque." Safuwan replied, "I have a story to tell." Sulaiman encouraged him, "Tell me, I'm all ears." Safuwan began, "I encountered a captivating young lady today." Sulaiman teased, "Is this one different from the others? You even mentioned marriage." Safuwan nodded, "Yes, marriage. I'm serious."