Chapter 5 THE FIRST PUBLIC APPEARANCE.

Ayshe stared at her reflection in the mirror, her heart pounding. The silver dress hugged her figure perfectly, its satin material flowing down to her ankles. Her makeup was subtle but elegant, enhancing her natural beauty.

She still couldn't believe this was happening.

A knock on the door pulled her out of her thoughts. Taking a deep breath, she walked toward it and opened it to find Kareem standing there.

Her breath hitched.

Dressed in a tailored black suit with a crisp white shirt underneath, Kareem looked effortlessly handsome. His dark hair was neatly styled, and his sharp gaze scanned her from head to toe.

"You clean up well," he said, smirking.

"You don't look so bad yourself," she replied, folding her arms.

Kareem chuckled before offering his arm. "Shall we?"

She hesitated before slipping her hand through his arm.

Tonight was their first public appearance as an engaged couple. Kareem's father had announced a grand gala to introduce her as Kareem's fiancee, and Ayshe knew she had to play her role perfectly.

The car ride to the venue was quiet, but the tension between them was undeniable.

"Are you nervous?" Kareem finally asked, breaking the silence.

Ayshe scoffed. "Why would I be? It's not like I'm pretending to be someone's fiancee in front of hundreds of people."

Kareem chuckled. "Just remember-you're Ayshe, my future wife. Own it."

She rolled her eyes but couldn't ignore the warmth spreading through her at his words.

As they arrived at the grand hall, the sight of the massive chandeliers, the elegantly dressed guests, and the flashing cameras made Ayshe's stomach tighten.

Kareem leaned in slightly. "Ready?"

"Do I have a choice?" she muttered.

He smirked and gently pulled her closer. "Showtime."

The moment they stepped onto the red carpet, all eyes turned toward them. Cameras flashed, guests murmured, and whispers spread like wildfire.

Kareem kept his grip firm on her waist, his confidence unwavering.

Ayshe, however, could feel her heart racing.

"Smile," Kareem murmured. "You belong here."

Ayshe forced a soft smile, keeping up the act.

But as she looked around the room, she caught sight of someone watching them intently-Sabri.

Her stomach dropped.

This was going to be harder than she thought.