Saiyyan-Complete Adiya Fanfic *Epilogue-Pg. 55* - Page 10

CHAPTER 12

The next day, Wasim, Roshnaq, and Noor sat inside the majestic living room of Hooda mansion with Harshvardhan, Anjana, and Arjun.

"Yeh sab kya ho gaya..." Roshnaq asked to no one in particular. The tension hung in the air. Both families still trying to process what took place the night before.

"Yash ka kuch pata chala?" Wasim asked.

"I tracked him down. He is on his way to Los Angeles for a basketball camp." Arjun responded.

"I can't believe it...ke usne Zoya ko mandap peh chor diya" Harshvardhan fumed.

"Teek nahin kiya usne...lekin uski majboori bhi toh hai..." Wasim spoke, trying to find reason in this mess and trying to stay level headed.

"Lekin usne..." Harshvardhan's response was cut off when the living room door opened and Aditya walked in with Zoya.

Noor was the first to reach Zoya and engulf her in a tight hug. "Appi...how are you?" Noor asked, tightening her hug. Zoya hugged back, but didn't respond to Noor's greeting. Once Noor let go, Zoya then hugged Roshnaq and then finally stood in front of Wasim. Wasim looked at his daughter's face, and saw the pain behind empty eyes.

"Kaisi hoh beti?" Wasim asked, knowing that it was a futile question.

"Teek hoon abbu" Zoya replied, keeping her response short. Everyone in the room let out a breath of relief. At least Zoya spoke...that was something.

"Why don't you get comfortable?" Anjana encouraged, "We actually wanted to talk to both of you" she said, her eyes shifting to Aditya.

Knowing this talk was coming, Aditya sat down on one of the available couches and Zoya followed suit.

"We were wondering..." Wasim began. He hesitated, and looked at Harshvardhan for reassurance. When he got a nod of encouragement from his friend, Wasim continued, "Are you two sure about this? Is this marriage something you both want?"

Silence filled the air. Aditya shifted, uncomfortable at the loaded question. He honestly didn't know the answer to that.

Zoya sat quietly, giving no indication of what was running through her mind. This was not how it was supposed to be. She was supposed to be married to the love of her life. She was not only abandoned, she was now in a loveless marriage...a marriage out of pity.

"Look...we understand why this happened. We were all under a lot of pressure last night." Anjana said gently, trying to ease the tension. "We understand if you two don't want to follow through with this...

Aditya and Zoya's eyes shot to Anjana. They looked around the room and noticed that the elders were all in agreement. If they decide to separate, the elders would understand.

"But we hope you don't..." Harshvardhan insisted, and when he knew he had Aditya and Zoya's attention he continued, "Bahut saal pehle...mehne aur Wasim neh ek sapna dekha tha. Ke hum humare dosti ristedaari mein badal denge."

Taken by surprise, Zoya's eyes shifted to her father, looking for clarification.

"Yes beta...Harshvardhan and I hoped that you and Aditya would eventually make this dream come true. But you fell in love with someone else..." Wasim trailed off.

Zoya looked down, hiding her face so no one noticed her eyes fill.

"Despite everything that's happened...our dream of two families coming together came true. You have our blessings." Wasim said.

"But there is no pressure..." Roshnaq continued, "we will accept whatever decision you both make." Roshnaq concluded.

Aditya looked at Zoya, her head was still lowered. He tried to read her. Any indication of what she might want.

"I'm a little tired..." Zoya spoke in a monotone voice, "I'm going to go up and rest. Bye..." with that being said, Zoya left the living room.

"She is so sad..." Noor whispered, her eyes filling at her sister's changed behavior. Arjun placed a comforting arm around Noor, feeling helpless in the situation.

"Dil toota hai uska..." Roshnaq said, her own eyes filling. "I can't see her like this..." she said, her own voice breaking as her tears began to flow.

Before anyone could console Roshnaq, Aditya knelt down in front of her and took her hands in his.

"Roshnaq maa..." Aditya began, "Barosa hain na mujh par?" he asked the rhetorical question. Aditya wiped a tear away from her face. "Zoya ko kuch nahin hoga...mein hoon na?" Aditya said.

"Lekin Adi.." Roshnaq began to say, but was cut off. "Lekin kuch nahin" Aditya said, "Zoya aab meri zimidaari hai..usse mein kuch hone nahin dunga." Aditya wiped another tear from Roshnaq's face, "Zoya ki smile...mein wapas launga. Yeh vaada hai mera" he promised, his eyes holding steady determination.

Without saying another word, Aditya stood up and left the room.

The tension that was in the air lessened. Anjana placed a comforting hand on Roshnaq, "Don't worry...agar Zoya ko koi wapas lah sakta hai...toh woh sirf Aditya hai." She said, confident in her eldest son's capabilities.

Harshvardhan, Wasim, Arjun, and Noor all exchanged knowing glances. Seeing hope in this difficult situation for the first time.

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*Aditya's bedroom*

Zoya stood by the window, looking out at the garden below. She tried to clear her mind, focus on what her parents and the Hoodas revealed to her...what she wanted to do next...focus on anything but the roaring pain in her chest. Zoya closed her eyes, willing herself to clear her mind.

"I'm sorry Zoya...I can't marry you. I have to leave tonight so I can pay for my mother's surgery..."

Yash's words echoed in Zoya's mind and her eyes shot open, a tear rolling down her cheek, the pain in her heart almost blinding her.

"Zoya..." a masculine, husky voice said.

It's that voice again, it cut through the roaring in Zoya's head and she was brought back to the present.

Zoya turned and came face to face with Aditya. Their eyes connected, one filled with concern and the other hollow. Aditya walked further into the room and stopped right next to Zoya by the window.

"It's a nice day out..." Aditya said awkwardly.

Zoya remained quiet and looked out the window again.

Aditya sighed, "Zoya...kuch toh bolo...neeche tumne kissi se teek tara se baat tak nahin ki..." Aditya said, hoping to get some kind of reaction. He missed the feisty Zoya. It was always so easy for them to bicker. He says something to get Zoya mad, and she retaliated without thinking twice.

Aditya looked at Zoya, waiting to see her reaction...nothing. Aditya spoke again, "Teek hai...mujhse bhi baat mat karo, mujhe kya paari hai?" Aditya poked, hoping to see irritation cross Zoya's face. Again...nothing. Zoya continued to look out the window...his words having no effect on her.

*The Next Morning*

The Hoodas sat around the dining table as breakfast was being served. Anjana passed a plate of parathas to Zoya, "Try these beta...I made them especially for you."

As Zoya reached out to take the plate, Aditya snatched it and started filling his plate. Harshvardhan, Anjana, and Arjun looked on surprised as Zoya simply stared at Aditya.

"What?" Aditya asked, as if nothing happened. "You can eat something else...I want these." Aditya said to Zoya, waiting for her to pass a smart remark.

Zoya said nothing. She reached out and took an omelet instead. Aditya frowned at Zoya's behavior. He started eating the parathas, the wheels in his head turning for a plan B.

The rest of the Hoodas shared glances with each other, extremely confused at what just happened.

*St. Xavier University*

"I'm watching a new show on tv...uff! The actor is so handsome!" Pooja gushed at Noor and Zoya. Pooja and Noor did not leave Zoya's side since the morning. It was Zoya's first day back to college after the wedding and they tried their best to talk about anything to keep Zoya busy.

They were standing by the lockers as Pooja and Noor talked non-stop. Zoya didn't respond to Pooja's comment. She took out her books from her locker and closed it. As they turned to walk to their respective classes, Zoya walked straight into Aditya.

"Oye freckle face! Watch where you are going." Aditya said, knowing well how much Zoya hated that nick name.

Aditya smirked and waited for Zoya to blow up. She will definitely react now. Zoya looked at Aditya. "Sorry..." Zoya replied in a low voice. She turned and then walked away.

Aditya's jaw dropped. Did she just say sorry'' to him? No chicken legs''...no get out of my way''...just sorry''?

"Bhai..." Aditya was shaken out of his thoughts when Arjun called him. Arjun looked at his Bhai, confusion etched on his face. "Why did you bump into Zoya di on purpose?" Arjun asked, trying to make sense of the interaction.

Pooja and Noor had confused looks on their faces too. Aditya looked at the three of them and shrugged. "I don't know what you are talking about." Aditya replied. He turned around and walked in the opposite direction, the wheels in his head turning for plan C.

Arjun, Noor, and Pooja looked at each other confused. "What the hell is going on?" Arjun voiced, to no one in particular.

*St. Xavier Cafeteria*

Aditya, Zoya, Noor, Pooja and a few other friends sat around the table during lunch time. They all chatted about various things and tried to keep the atmosphere as light as possible.

Zoya quietly played with her food, her mind somewhere else. She didn't hear any of the conversation taking place around her nor was she hungry. And so she quietly sat and played with her food.

Aditya watched her, noticing that Zoya has not eaten and she has not joined in any conversation either. He could tell that her mind was somewhere else.

Aditya looked behind Zoya and saw Arjun approaching them with juice. An idea formed in Aditya's head and a naughty glint entered his eyes. "Yeh loh Bhai...aapka juice" Arjun said, about to pass the juice to Aditya.

"Thanks Arjun" Aditya said, and as Arjun reached out to give the juice, Aditya pretended to lose his grip and spilled the drink all over Zoya's clothes.

"Oh no! Zoya appi are you ok!?" Noor asked, taking some napkins to wipe down the liquid.

"Sorry Zoya...I'm so clumsy" Aditya said, his face anything but apologetic. She will react now...'' Aditya thought wickedly, in 3...2...1...''

"It's ok. I'll be back" Zoya said, again, in a monotone voice. She stood up and left for the washroom without any further reaction.

Aditya huffed, frustrated. He sat back down and stabbed at his lunch. Arjun frowned and looked at his Bhai. He turned and saw Zoya's retreating back and then looked at Aditya again. He had a clear view of Aditya's accidental'' spill on Zoya.

Arjun's own wheels starting turning in his head as he started putting two and two together. "Yeh Bhai toh genius hai..." Arjun muttered as he took his seat next to Noor.

"What do you mean?" Noor asked, confused.

"I've noticed since this morning..Aditya bhai has been bothering Zoya di nonstop. Poking her at every chance he gets...He's trying to get a reaction out of her." Arjun said, keeping his voice low so only Noor could hear. Realization dawned as Noor glanced at Aditya stabbing his food in an irate manner.

It was weird. The person who Zoya thought was her number one enemy...was actually the person doing the most for her in her time of need. The thought brought a smile to Noor's face.

*Aditya's Bedroom Later in the evening*

Zoya wiped her wet hair with a towel and sat on the bed. She was lost in her own thoughts. Staring into space as she wiped off the excess water.

When she felt the other side of the bed shift she turned to see Aditya lying down. She gave him a questioning look.

"I'll sleep on my bed tonight. My back hurts on the couch." Aditya said, "You will sleep on the couch tonight" Aditya ordered, waiting to see Zoya's response to him. She will definitely react to this. Zoya hated it whenever Aditya bullied her.

Zoya stared at Aditya, studying his mischievous face. She then grabbed a pillow and made her way to the couch.

"Zoya seriously!?" Aditya asked frustrated. "Are you my loyal dog or something!? Meri har baath mann rahi ho?" He got off the bed and walked toward Zoya. He stopped in front of her and and placed both his hands on Zoya's arms, his face now serious.

"I've been trying since this morning for you to act normal...react to things...lekin nahin...tum toh zinda lash bann gayi ho yaar. Aise kaise chale ga?" Aditya asked, trying to reason with Zoya.

Aditya pulled Zoya closer to him. The movement almost intimate, if it weren't during these circumstances. "Kuch toh bolo...common Zoya...fight with me...mujhe gaali doh...mujhe maro...kya ho gaya tumhe?" Aditya pleaded. He looked into his childhood friend's eyes, searching for any signs of the person Zoya used to be. His own eyes were swimming with emotion.

There was a moment of silence. And then Zoya spoke, "I'm tired Aditya. I want to sleep." With that being said, Zoya removed Aditya's hands from her arms and fixed her pillow on the couch. Without another glance at Aditya, Zoya laid down on the couch and closed her eyes.

Aditya stood there for a moment. Not sure what to do anymore. Feeling defeated, Aditya walked back to his bed, laid down, and turned off the lights.

Late into the night, Zoya lay awake. She hasn't been able to sleep since the wedding night. How is it possible to sleep when the heart is broken? One's soul needed to be at peace for sleep to come...and Zoya's soul was in turmoil. There was too much pain...too much heartbreak...too many unanswered questions for Zoya.

Zoya heard someone shift, and when her eyes looked into the dark room she noticed Aditya getting off his bed. Zoya closed her eyes, pretending to sleep, but kept her ears perked to hear for his movements.

She heard Aditya's footsteps come closer to her and she tried her best to remain still. What happened next surprised her. Aditya gently picked up Zoya in his arms, bridal style, and walked over to the bed. He then placed her on the mattress, trying his best not to wake her, and then placed a blanket over her, tucking her in.

When Zoya felt it was safe to open her eyes, she saw that Aditya was lying down on the couch, getting into a comfortable position so he can go back to sleep.

Zoya continued to stare at Aditya's silhouette in the dark, trying to process what just happened...and not realizing that the sweet gesture touched her.

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Author's note: Certain parts in this chapter where inspired by zoya's suicide track in the show...where adi tries to get a reaction out of her after the suicide attempt. everything I wrote in this chapter is mine...but the IDEA is from the show...so all copy rights for that goes to the writers. I want no credit for that.

CHAPTER 14

It's been a week since the wedding incident. Zoya fell into a routine in the Hooda house. They all rose around the same time, had breakfast together, until Aditya, Zoya, and Arjun left for college. Once in college, she spent her time either in class or around Noor and Pooja. Her lunch hour was usually taken with Noor, Pooja, and the Hooda brothers, until the school day ended.

Zoya was currently in St. Xavier walking towards the bathroom. As she entered the women's restroom she went straight to the sink to freshen up. It was almost the end of the day and she will be meeting Aditya soon so they can drive home.

Home...Hooda mansion was her home now. It's not that she wasn't familiar with the place..she knew the house like she knew her parent's house. Anjana maa and Harsh uncle always treated her like she was their own daughter. But it sometimes surprised her that she was now a Hooda.

And married to Aditya Hooda...never in a million years she would have guessed that she would one day be Mrs. Zoya Aditya Hooda.

Was this what her life was going to be? Empty...? Broken...? Loveless...?

Ever since Aditya confronted Zoya a few nights ago, they barely spoke to each other. Aditya did take care of her in his own way. He has been sleeping on the couch every night. He always drove Zoya to and from college. And he occasionally asked her if she needed anything. But other than that, their interaction was left to a minimum.

Zoya splashed some cold water on her face and stared at her reflection in the mirror. A pale face and hollow eyes stared back. Grabbing her belongings, Zoya was about to exit when she heard female voices entering the bathroom from the opposite end.

The girls clearly didn't see Zoya because they started talking openly. "It's so embarrassing being stood up on your wedding day. I would never be able to show my face in public again if that happened to me" a female voice said.

Another voice continued, "I heard that Yash always wanted to play professional basketball, but Zoya pressured him to get married first...that's why he left."

Zoya gasped a little at the harsh comments, moving into an empty stall to avoid being seen.

A 3^rd female voice continued, "Whatever it is, that Zoya was always so proud. Oh look...I am Zoya Siddiqui and I am engaged to Mr. Popular. Oh look our love is so wonderful" the girl made fun in a squeaky, high pitched voice. The other girls giggled.

Zoya felt her tears come. She placed a hand over her mouth to cover her sob, and when she saw the girls distracted, Zoya made a dash for the exit.

Zoya ran down the hallway, thankful that it was empty at the moment. Tears streamed down her face as the harsh words relayed in her mind. Was she really proud? Did she deserve to be left at the altar?

Zoya turned a corner and didn't notice the person due to her blurry vision. She crashed straight into a hard body. Luckily the person had quick reflexes and prevented both of them from crashing to the floor.

Zoya jumped back, ready to apologize to whoever she ran into. The apology got stuck in her throat when she saw Aditya staring back at her.

First he looked shocked by the impact of someone running into him...then he looked confused when he felt the person jolt away...and then his face turned concerned...when he saw Zoya's tear stained face.

"Zoya..." Aditya said, his voice reflecting the concern in his eyes.

Zoya let out a sob and launched herself in Aditya's arms. Taking a step back so he didn't lose balance, Aditya wrapped his arms around Zoya in reflex.

"Zoya..? Kya Hua?" Aditya asked, really worried now. Aditya tried to pull back but Zoya held on tighter, sobbing.

"Arre...kuch toh bolo...Zoya...?" Aditya questioned. He rocked her back and forth, trying to sooth her. Her heart wrenching sobs piercing his soul.

He held her close, and maneuvered her so they went into an empty classroom for some privacy. Once inside, Aditya pulled Zoya away from his body. He brushed her hair back and cupped her face.

"Zoya...batao mujhe...hua kya? Kisi ne kuch kaha kya?" Aditya asked, searching Zoya's face for answers. He pushed down on the anger he felt rising inside him...if he found out who upset Zoya...he will personally take care of them.

"Humhe patah hona chahiye tha...Yash was having problems...humhe patah hona chahiye tha..." Zoya whispered, new tears streaming down her face.

"Tumhari galti nahi hai Zoya..." He said, trying to give Zoya some comfort, his thumb wiping away a few tears.

"But why didn't he tell me!?" Zoya cried, pulling back. "Hum kya itne bure hai Aditya? Keh usne hume batana zaroori nahin samjah?" More tears fell down Zoya's face as she closed her eyes in grief.

"Dukh iss baath ka nahin ke usne humhe mandap pe chor diya...hum jaante hai ke woh humse bahut pyaar karte hain...dukh iss baat ka hai ke usne hum par barosa nahin kiya..." Zoya opened her eyes and looked at Aditya, more tears glistening.

"Ek doosre ke saath rehne ke liye sirf pyaar kaafi nahin hai...izzaat bhi hona bohut zaroori hai. Dukh iss baat ka hai ke usne humhe woh izzaat nahin diya. He didn't respect me or my love for him to tell me what was happening. He just left...He just left..." Zoya ended in a whisper. Fresh tears rolled down Zoya's face and she let out another sob, her heart breaking all over again as the realization hit her. The love she shared with Yash was real...but it wasn't enough. Their love was just not enough...

Aditya felt a tight squeeze in his chest. It felt as if a rock was placed over his heart to prevent it from beating. His eyes swam with emotions of his own. What he felt wasn't pity. It was something else. What the feeling was, he didn't know in that moment.

Having no words, Aditya simply pulled Zoya into his arms and held on, letting her cry on his shoulder.

Sometime later, Zoya's sobs eventually lessened, until only quiet filled the room. Zoya held on to Aditya for a little while longer until she finally pulled away.

Zoya avoided Aditya's gaze, embarrassed that she broke down in front of him like that. She tried to find the right words to says, but didn't get the chance when Aditya simply took her hand and pulled her to the exit.

He guided her out the school and didn't leave her hand until they reached his car. The car ride home was quiet. No words needed to be exchanged between them. Aditya understood that Zoya needed silence...and she needed peace. So for the rest of the day, that's all he gave her.

*The next day in St. Xavier*

"How is Zoya adjusting?" Pooja asked the group during lunch. Arjun, Noor, Aditya, and Pooja were already sitting at one of the tables. Zoya got held up in her class and has not joined them yet.

All eyes turned to Aditya. Zoya didn't talk much to either of them anymore. If anyone spent the most time with Zoya...it was Aditya because they shared the same room.

Aditya looked at the three pairs of questioning eyes. "Uhhh..." Aditya said awkwardly, feeling cornered.

"Common Adi bhaiya...we are all worried about her..." Noor pried.

Aditya sighed, "Honestly...She is struggling..."

Aditya looked down at his folded hands as the solemn air fell over the group. "I promised Roshnaq maa that I would bring Zoya's smile back...but how?" he asked to no one in particular. "toote hue dil koh kaise jhod du?" He murmured the last part, this particular question more for himself than anyone else.

The group was silent for a minute until Arjun smacked the table, "Idea!" he yelled, making everyone jump.

"Why don't we all go away for a few days? To the farmhouse maybe? A change in scenery may help." Arjun said excitedly, mentally patting himself for the genius idea.

"Hmmm...idea bura nahin hai..." Noor said, agreeing. They have vacationed multiple times in the past at the Hooda farmhouse. Reliving childhood memories and time away from the city filled with Yash's memories may help.

"You think Zoya will agree to go for a vacation during this time?" Pooja asked, doubtful.

Three pairs of eyes turned to Aditya again, looking for answers. "Uhhh..." Aditya said, again, feeling cornered. Arjun gave him a hopeful look and Aditya caved, never being able to deny his little brother, "Try karne mein kya jaatha hai?" Aditya responded, deciding for the group.

*Hallway *

"Farmhouse?" Zoya asked, distracted as she put her books away in her locker.

"Haan appi...it will be nice to get away for all of us" Noor replied. "You will go with us...won't you?" Noor asked, trying to read Zoya's reaction.

Zoya hesitated, "I don't know Noor...mann nahin hai..." she said.

"Common appi" Noor urged, "We all want you to come...we miss you..." she said, sadness reflected in her voice.

Zoya looked at her younger sister, studying her face. It was true that Zoya saw Noor every day in college, but it was also true that Zoya was no longer herself. And in her grief, she failed to see that her little sister was hurting for her too. Seeing Noor's hopeful face, Zoya caved.

"Ok...I will join you guys" Zoya said, causing Noor to squeal in delight and engulf Zoya in a hug.

Once the bell rang for the last class of the day, Noor and Zoya went their separate ways. Zoya, however, needed to be alone and so decided to skip class.

She didn't have a destination in mind, so she just walked. What day was it? It felt like the days merged together and she had no sense of what was happening around her sometimes.

She agreed to go to the farmhouse with the gang...but would she ever be the same person again? Noor said that everyone missed her...would she ever be the same old Zoya, the Zoya everyone was looking for?

Without Zoya's other half..she felt lost. How will Zoya find herself again? Will she ever find herself again?

The faint sound of music reached Zoya's ears, bringing Zoya out of her thoughts. Her feet automatically began to move until the music became clearer. Zoya reached large, wooden double doors, and peaked inside.

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Where the hell is she?'' Aditya wondered, as he waited for Zoya in front of his car. He called her cell phone for the third time and again, got no response.

He has been waiting for the past 30 minutes and was starting to get genuinely worried. It was not like Zoya to be so late. She usually met him by his car every day after the last class ended and then he would drive them home.

But there was no sign of her today. Aditya called Noor, "Haan Noor...is Zoya with you?" Aditya asked into the phone. When Noor denied knowing Zoya's whereabouts, fear started forming in Aditya's gut.

In the next few minutes, Aditya, Arjun, Noor, and Pooja were split up to different parts of the school, searching for Zoya.

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Aditya rushed down one of the large hallways of St. Xavier. Frantically searching for Zoya. He has been searching for the last 40 minutes and still no sign of Zoya. When his phone rang, Aditya answered it hoping to hear good news.

"Haan Arjun...kuch patha chala?" Aditya asked, a little desperation in his voice.

"Sorry Bhai...I've searched this side of campus...Zoya didi ka kuch patha nahin chala" Arjun answered. The fear Aditya felt earlier in his gut came out and gripped him by the throat. "Keep looking Arjun." Aditya ordered and cut off the phone.

Praying, Aditya turned a corner and came to an abrupt halt. Here was Zoya, leaning against the wall as she peaked into the music room and listened to someone playing the piano.

He didn't recognize the tune being played and honestly he didn't care. The fear he felt earlier gave way to relief...and then to anger. How dare she worry everyone like that!?

Stomping over, Aditya was ready to spit fire and give Zoya a piece of his mind. But as he got closer his pace slowed. He took a deeper look at Zoya and saw that she wasn't just leaning against the wall...she has her eyes closed as well. Zoya was simply listening to the piano being played...and her face looked serene.

Aditya felt his anger deflate almost instantly. He thought he would never see Zoya's face like this again. Sure...she wasn't smiling...but she looked peaceful. He stood and studied the curves of Zoya's face...as if seeing her for the first time.

Zoya simply listened to the beautiful chords being played. It felt like ages since she heard any kind of music. Her listening was interrupted, however, by the little flutter in her heart. Confused at the sudden feeling, Zoya opened her eyes to see Aditya standing a few feet away observing her.

"Aditya...?" Zoya asked, confused at first, until realization dawned on her. "Oh! I'm sorry I lost track of time..." Zoya apologized.

She walked up to Aditya, apologizing again, "I'm really sorry...I just...I wasn't paying attention..." Zoya said.

Still mesmerized by what he saw, Aditya simply nodded his head, and finally spoke when he found the right words, "We...we should probably head back..." he said.

Zoya nodded in agreement and started walking away. Aditya held back a little. He looked back at the wooden double doors, still hearing the piano's keys filling the air with soft music...and then looked back at Zoya's retreating back.

CHAPTER 15

Zoya placed a few change of clothes in the suitcase and zipped it up. They were leaving for the farmhouse the next morning and it was decided that everyone would meet at Hooda mansion and leave together.

As she placed her toiletries in the suitcase, Zoya turned at the sound of the bedroom door opening. Seeing Anjana walk in, Zoya stood up from her seated position on the bed.

"Anjana maa...aap?" Zoya asked.

"Arre...sit beta...there is no need to be so formal." Anjana said lovingly.

Zoya sat back down and Anjana took a seat opposite Zoya on the bed. Anjana looked around room to see it empty but the two of them. "Adi kaha hain?" Anjana asked.

"I'm not sure..." Zoya responded, "When we came back from college he said he had to work on something, and I haven't seen him since." Zoya responded, feeling a little embarrassed at her lack of knowledge. She should know where Aditya is right? He has been taking such good care of her...and she didn't even bother checking to see where he was? For the first time Zoya felt guilty about not knowing Aditya's whereabouts.

Sensing Zoya's uneasiness, Anjana changed the subject. "Are you all packed?" she asked, seeing the suitcase.

"Yes Anjana maa...just a few more things left." Zoya replied.

"It's good that you kids are going away for a bit...it will be nice to get away from the city." Anjana said. "I actually came here to give you something..." Anjana continued, knowing that she had Zoya's full attention.

Anjana lifted the velvet box and opened it, revealing a pair of beautifully hand crafted diamond bangles. Zoya gasped at its beauty. The bedroom light glinted off the diamonds, making the bangles sparkle.

"Yeh kis liye Anjana maa?" Zoya asked, confused as to why she was receiving this.

Anjana simply took Zoya's hand and slipped the bangles onto her wrist. "Kyon...I can't buy my daughter presents?" Anjana replied.

"No...it's not like that...thank you...they are beautiful" Zoya said, graciously accepting the gift.

"Honestly...I didn't have anything to give you when you came into this house. Toh yeh sirf ek choti si gift...meri taraf se..." Anjana said.

Zoya looked at Anjana...this was a wedding gift...her wedding to Aditya. The bangles suddenly felt extremely heavy on Zoya's wrist.

Anjana sensed Zoya's hesitation, and continued gently, "There is still no pressure on you Zoya...neither is there any pressure on Aditya." Anjana placed a loving hand on Zoya's face, "Kush nasseebi hai meri...ke mujhe bahu nahin...beti mili hai...and because you are my daughter, I want nothing more than your happiness. If you decide that this marriage is something you don't want...I would still want you to keep these bangles." Anjana assured Zoya, that this gift came from a place of love and not conditions.

A small tear slipped from the corner of Zoya's eyes at Anjana's touching words. Anjana wiped it away. She smiled when Zoya leaned in and gave Anjana a tight hug.

When Anjana left the room, Zoya stepped out on the balcony attached to the bedroom. It was a clear night and the sky was filled with stars.

Zoya looked out like she did many times in the past from her own bedroom...looking for answers. What did she want? Where does she go from here? Zoya closed her eyes, hoping to clear her mind. Yash's face appeared and Zoya opened her eyes, her anguish returning. She felt lost...so utterly lost.

A shooting star dashed across the sky. The woman Zoya used to be would have wished on it...wishing for her love. Tonight...Zoya stared at it blankly. As the star shot across the sky, Zoya turned around and walked back inside.

Later when the Hooda household settled in for the night, Zoya lay awake. There was still no sign of Aditya. He wasn't there at the dinner table either, and when Harshvardhan uncle inquired, Arjun said that Aditya had to step away for something and will not be joining them.

When Zoya heard the bedroom door open, Zoya sat up and saw Aditya's silhouette in the darkness. "Aditya?...Where have you been? Anjana maa and Harsh uncle kept asking about you." Zoya said.

Aditya didn't respond. He simply walked up to Zoya and took her hand, pulling her up from the bed. "Yeh kya kar rahe ho?" Zoya asked, surprised at Aditya's forwardness.

Aditya simply pulled Zoya's hand and led her out the bedroom. "Aditya?" Zoya asked again, really confused at his behavior.

"Shhh...just follow me..." Aditya finally responded. His voice held such calm...that Zoya didn't argue. Almost like a child, Zoya just followed.

Aditya maneuvered them until they reached one of the many rooms in the large mansion. If Zoya remembered correctly, this particular room was Aditya's study. One of his many hobbies was to read and his library contained many classic novels.

When they entered, Zoya remembered always liking this room...even when she wasn't too fond of the person that the room reflected. The walls had deep cherry wood shelves, filled with books collected over the years. There were love seats scattered across the room, comfortable couches for people to lean back and enjoy a good book, all royal in color. A wooden study table also stood with scattered paperwork, a world globe made of glass and gold accents, and pens.

One side of the room held a stone fireplace, which crackled with fire at the moment, lighting the room with its soft glow. The other side of the room was a floor to ceiling glass wall, looking out into the night sky and the garden. All in all, it was a beautiful room and probably one of Zoya's favorites in the Hooda mansion.

Zoya saw it then...there was something new in this room. Something she was sure was never there before...it was an all white grand piano. It stood next to the glass wall, the fire dancing off its color.

"You like it?" Aditya asked, his voice low...his question gentle.

Stunned, Zoya turned to stare at Aditya. Her mouth opened to say something...when no words came out...she closed it.

Aditya smiled and pulled her to the piano. "Common...test it out...play something..." Aditya urged.

Zoya lifted her hand...hesitating...and then trialed a finger over the white top. Feeling overwhelmed, Zoya turned to Aditya and looked straight into his eyes, "Why are you doing this?" Zoya asked. She searched his face for answers. "Why are you doing any of this?" she asked again bluntly, referring to everything Aditya has done for her. Who was this person? The Aditya Hooda she grew up with was her nemesis. They always fought...so why was he helping someone who always voiced her dislike of him?

"Meri ek dost hai...tum shayad jaanti ho usse..." Aditya said giving Zoya a playful smile, "Gussa humesha naak par rehti hai...aur har waqt mujhe gaaliya deti rehti hai...ghalib kahiki. Lekin woh muskurana bhool gayi. Mein meri dost ko yeh dikana chaata hoon ke muskurana...kush rehna...kitna asaan hai." Aditya said, hoping to get Zoya to smile.

When Zoya simply stared, Aditya saw that being playful wasn't the route to go. So Aditya gazed at Zoya and his eyes turned intense. The shift in them was almost mesmerizing. He took a step towards her, now completely serious, "Vaada kiya tha...ke mein sab sambaal lunga" Aditya murmured. This was the third time he said those words to her...and each time the words caressed Zoya as if they were being said for the first time.

When Zoya said nothing, Aditya continued, "Tum aab meri zimidaari ho Zoya...tumhari har kushi ka kayal...aab mein rakunga." Aditya took her hand and pulled her closer, the gesture not meant to be intimate, but was none the less. He maneuvered her and sat her down in front of the piano. "Play something..." Aditya urged again. He then stood by her and waited.

Captivated by Aditya...his voice...his words...his gesture...Zoya felt her fingers lift and automatically started playing a tune she was all too familiar with.

~Heere moti main na chaahoo
Main toh chaaho sangam tera~

Zoya closed her eyes and felt the tune leave her fingers. The piano followed beautifully. She expected the pain to shoot across her heart...this song was of everlasting love...and her love was no longer with her. She thought playing this song would be painful...but all she felt was peace.

~Main toh teri saiyyan
Tu hai mera saiyyan...~

Her fingers glided over the piano keys...the chords to the song second nature to her. She never thought she would feel like this again...this calmness. Zoya opened her eyes and the first thing she saw was Aditya...looking down at her...a small smile adorning his handsome face.

~saiyyan...~

Zoya finished the chords until only the sound of fire crackling remained in the room. For the first time since the wedding, Zoya's heart didn't feel like it was bleeding. She was still heartbroken...yes...but for the first she time she didn't feel the unbearable anguish in her chest. It felt like she can breathe again. And it was all because of Aditya.

"Thank you..." Zoya murmured softly, emotions swimming in her green colored eyes.

Aditya smiled back, knowing exactly what this gift meant to Zoya. "You're welcome..." Aditya replied, just as softly.

Breaking eye contact, Zoya played a few more random chords. "It's beautiful...perfect tuning..." Zoya said, her musically trained ear appreciating the clean sound.

"It better be perfect...I threatened the store owner to have their best piano delivered here by tonight...or else I'd close them down." Aditya replied, a devilish grin appearing on his face.

Zoya rolled her eyes at Aditya like she did many times before in the past and played the chords of another song.

Aditya felt relief spread through him. There was still hope. He saw a glimpse of the old Zoya tonight. The Zoya who was feisty...the Zoya who always rolled her eyes at his antics. And if he looked a little closer...he saw a ghost of a smile adorning Zoya's face as she continued to play.

*Somewhere far away in a village*

A shooting star shot across the sky and Sakshi made a wish on it. "Kya maanga Sakshi?" A lady in Rajasthani attire asked.

Sakshi simply smiled and responded, "Woh toh nahin batha sakti...lekin itna batha sakti hoon...ke aaj raat ek nahin shuruwat hai... Sakshi said cryptically.

"Kay matlab?" the lady asked, confused.