HEY GUYSS! Sorry for the late update, have exams going on, 3rd one just finished yesterday, one more to go. I know you guys are attached to this story and so am I, I actually enjoy writing this story in my spare time but lately I feel forced and pressurized to write. I understand most of you feel impatient wanting to read the next part, so am I, all the time. But please understand my situation, I write fanfictions for my own satisfaction and lately I'm not getting any of that. I don't mean to offend anyone, I've just been stressed and some people have been getting angry. It really does affect me as my health is always playing up and along with stress, I am a lost cause. No deadline I give is infinite and I hope you understand that. Thank you for all the love and support. Really appreciate it. Makes me feel happy when I read those comments. I didn't realise last update had so many revelations because the update was so long lool! This one doesn't have many and it's all over the place prepping for next part. NEW CHARACTERS INTRODUCED, HOPE IT'S NOT TOO SHOCKING. NEXT UPDATE WILL BE AFTER 23RD, my last exam. Will update regularly after that exam cus I will be free and updates may be shorter like my other FF's. Love you loadsss xxx
Chapter 12
Ayaat placed her aviators on and stepped out of the car, she stared at her one of her college buildings and sighed; memories. She looked back at her friend's faces who mirrored the same emotions. The only person that seemed disinterested was Jameela. She's had enough of this place, and the teacher- student bullying she had suffered from the 2 years she was there. She was wrong thinking she had gotten rid of this place from her life.
'Best of luck to us' Ayaat cheered happily. 'Jameela, cheer up beautiful! We're not going into our building; we have to go into the main campus today.'
'Your building? You're lucky you spent most of your time in the other Business and Accounting Campus that's on the other side of the world. Why the hell are we parked here?' Jameela moaned; her friend studied a weird mixture of subjects.
'So that we can reminisce some of our moments here' Ayaat explained laughing seeing Jameela roll her eyes.
'Jameela. SHUT UP AND SMILE! You're making me nervous' Sanaya hit the back of her head,
'Watch the hair!' Jameela squealed. They both paused seeing Ayaat walk ahead of them, she seemed unusually quiet.
They all walked together in a line as they took in the familiar roads and scenery; they laughed seeing the corner where most of the attention seeking girls hung about. Ayaat stopped and grunted hearing the two girls behind her make dreamy noises. She looked up to find the captain of the college football team stepping out of his pimped up car; he was still an ass and to think that she might have been slightly attracted to him at one point in her life. She held her head up high and entered the main campus, she looked around the main building where students were gathering; some familiar and some not so familiar.
'Ayaat, look there's most of our lot. It honestly feels weird coming here; I was so used to our own vibrant campus' Connor pointed out.
'You go ahead, I just have to make a call' Ayaat told him. He nodded and ran towards the group, hugging them with open arms. She turned around and touched the back pocket of her overalls, she pressed her temples in frustration; she forgot she didn't have a phone.
'Eurgh!' She grunted loudly.
'What's wrong?' Sanaya asked, Ayaat was about to reply when she heard someone's voice,
'Hey you!' Came a husky voice, Ayaat looked up to find the same guy that walked out of his car standing near the railings with his group of... animals. She cringed seeing the smirk on his face, Jameela and Sanaya pulled her overalls from the back like she was their shield. She turned her face sideways, the girls let go instantly. She ignored their gazes; her eyes fell on Asim and Zain in the distant. She stepped forward towards them only to find the stud fly in front of her making her stumble back a few steps. She glared at him through her aviators but his smirk refused to budge its place.
'Hey, you're that girl from the other campus aren't you?' Fahad asked her in the most creepiest voice ever.
'No I'm not' Ayaat replied sternly moving out of the way.
'Feisty' He turned towards his friends and mouthed to them. 'Wait, listen' Fahad stepped in front of her again, 'Can I get your name at least?' He smiled. Ayaat's eyes went from Zain's face to Fahad's,
'At least show us your eyes!' One of the boys commented,
'Let's see if they're as sexy as your figure' One other nudged his mate,
'Your face is too pretty to be in men's clothes!' Another spoke in between as they laughed in unison. Ayaat stared at Zain's aggravated expressions with Asim rushing towards her. Ayaat's hand shot upwards and held Fahad's wrist as it came towards her shoulder,
'I suggest you keep your hands off me!' Ayaat threw his arm away and paced towards Asim shaking her head.
'What took you so long?' Ayaat asked Asim but her eyes was fixed on Zain's face. Zain's sharp eyes moved from Fahad to Ayaat, he stared at her trying to read her expressions.
'I had to pick up some documents' Asim flapped the envelope in front of her and placed his hand over her shoulder indicating they should go inside. Both of the boys shielded her from the group of gawking animals but stopped as a few guys came to greet Zain. They heard someone whistle in the background, Asim lost his cool and ran back towards the group however Fahad barged in front of him pushing him back with his chest.
'Heyyy now, let's chill out' Fahad spoke playfully.
'Behave Fahad' Zain pointed warning him as he pulled Asim back, he looked past Fahad at the group of boys with wide eyes, 'You all remember last year, I suggest you keep your lips sealed for the rest of the afternoon!' Zain growled at them pulling Asim away with him. Ayaat grabbed hold of Asim and took him inside while the girls entertained Zain on the way inside to the main assembly hall. To think that she and Zain went to the same college but have never met each other was weird. Does being in different campuses mean that you're in two different parts of the world? She removed her aviators and looked back; her eyes met his as he stared at her not removing his eyes off her for a moment. She wanted to turn around and grab him into a bone crushing hug but she faced the other way ignoring whatever her heart was telling her. She let go of Asim and ran towards Sofia.
'Heyy pretty lady, I've been trying to get hold of you all morning! Where have you been?' Ayaat embraced her tightly,
'I've been helping out since morning. Sorry, Asad chachu told me you were sleeping when I came by or else would've dragged you along!' Sofia replied. She hugged Zain, Good Luck Bhaijaan!'
'Good luck to you too Ghandhi's niece!' Zain rubbed her head. Sofia smacked his chest. 'Come on sit down now! Let's get this stupid welcome back speech over with' Zain rolled his eyes. Connor whizzed past them pulling Sanaya and Jameela with him towards the back row to get the best seats. Sofia followed behind them with Asim pushing Zain out of the way to get inside. Grow up kid!' Zain shouted behind him. He looked at Ayaat standing beside him, he put his hand out for her to go first, she shook her head in a no. Ayaat sighed; had their relationship become this formal?
'I want to sit on the end' Ayaat said softly without looking at him. He nodded sitting down while she looked around her consciously and sat down next to him. She saw Fahad and his gang entering the hall, she looked at Zain, 'Can I sit there?' She pointed towards his seat. His arm went around her protectively as she moved towards the inside seat. They all looked upwards towards the stage as the head teacher started his speech; Ayaat hid her petite self behind Zain's arm. Zain smiled at his lioness; at least she felt protected next to him.
'Ayaat bhaji, I'm sorry but I think your pictures' Sofia nibbled the side of her lips.
'My pictures what?' Ayaat panicked, almost jumping out of her seat.
'Your pictures are in the slideshow. Ermm, they snapped them during your most stressful times' Sofia spoke with wide eyes.
'What slideshow? What stressful times?' Ayaat almost cried, she looked towards the screen.
That slideshow' Asim whispered. Ayaat almost fainted seeing her pictures flash one by one as the fashion department segment came up, some were good and some looked like ghosts; thank the Almighty the accountancy department was off limits for pictures. Sofia meant during exam times when she mentioned "stressful time". Ayaat remembered when they were stressed out as they lay across the floor working overtime to get their projects done. She dug her face into Zain's chest trying to hide herself from the embarrassment,
'I hate you guys!' Ayaat whispered praying it ended. She held her breath suddenly realising what she was doing, she slowly let go and blinked, she moved away and looked at the screen to find a picture of Zain lying back on the floor in the gym room. She clawed her chair hearing some of the girls whistle and scream in the crowd.
''I know it's been about 5-6 months since you all left, long long holiday, but I'm proud of every single one of you. I know most of you have taken advantage of the holidays while others have kept themselves busy with placements. Your dedication was...' Head teacher's voice drowned in the background. They all jumped up as soon as the speech ended.
''Thank God I didn't attend this college!' Asim sighed,
''Ehh it's not that bad' Ayaat hit his arm.
''Okay guys, I shall see you in a bit. I need to help with the distribution of the results. Either you come and que up now or wait' Sofia blinked. They all nodded following her. She laughed taking them through the corridor and into the main office, she turned around and waved at them all pushing backwards through the door.
''Now what?' Sanaya popped her head around,
''Que. And it starts there' Ayaat pointed, she held her ears and closed her eyes as they all pushed past her. ''Kids' She shouted behind them. She found Zain standing next to her with his arm around her to stop her from falling. She awkwardly moved forward forcing him to remove his arm; she stood behind the rest of the gang as they waited for the results. Asim slipped out of the que and went to meet the Assistant head; he couldn't risk explaining about his other name. Asim stood in the corridor and wondered; what were his plans after this? Was he going to go university, what did he want, what are his dreams and aspirations? He looked around the corridor suddenly feeling disheartened that he had never thought about what he wanted to do with his life.
''Thanks beautiful!' Ayaat winked at Sofia taking the envelope off her. She smiled nervously at the huge que and took the nearest exist. She turned around and pointed to Sofia where she would be standing, Sofia nodded. Ayaat stood on the bottom stair and sighed. She closed her eyes and prayed: this would decide whether she could go to university or not. She opened one eye praying her Abbu was here, she lifted the sheet that will determine her future, a future she may not survive to see. A lone tear escaped her eyes as she took in the bold letters in front of her. She pressed her eyes releasing further tears that were brimming in her eyes; she had passed, with flying colours. She sat down on the stair whimpering; she wanted to live, to fulfil her dreams and her parents. She wiped her tears hearing her friends scream out of the door, she jumped up onto her feet and turned around,
'Thank you Almighty' Ayaat prayed seeing the excitement on their faces; they have passed. They all grabbed her into a hug,
''Yay yay yay!' They all screamed in unison.
''Ayaat, honestly thank you for all your help. Honestly wouldn't have passed if it wasn't for you!' Connor got emotional.
''Don't be stupid. You worked hard for this. We all have!' Ayaat side hugged him. ''Cheer up! We've done it! Uniii' She jumped up with everyone. Sanaya turned around and looked at Zain and Asim.
''How did you guys do?' Sanaya asked enthusiastically.
''Passed' Asim and Zain smiled hi-fiving each other with their usual neutral expressions. Ayaat stepped back seeing a group of guys and girls run towards Zain and grab him into a hug. Ayaat looked towards Sanaya.
''Look Sofia's coming, I'm going to head home. My parents must be waiting!' Ayaat hugged them.
''What? You not coming to celebrate?' Jameela asked shocked.
''Not today. Abbu must be waiting. I'm going to go. Heyyy, smile, I'll see you at Thamanna's holi party soon.' Ayaat smiled looking at Zain. 'Give Fahima my love tonight, I won't be able to make it!' Ayaat wrapped her arm over Sofia's shoulder ignoring her friend's questioning gazes and dragged her towards the gate; she turned and blew her friends a kiss. Zain looked up and raised his eyebrow, Ayaat turned around instantly.
''So how did you do?' Ayaat grabbed her envelope. ''Woooppp! MashAllah! Anyone would be jealous seeing these results. Well done. Hassan and Hussain will get it from Ayaan chachu tonight' Ayaat kissed Sofia's cheeks.
''Thank youuu!' Sofia smiled happily.
''Okay, I have a few questions for you. But wait, lemme get the car. Don't moveee!' Ayaat ran out of the gate towards the end of the road, Sofia walked out of the gate and stared at her retreating back laughing; she should've joined the college athletics team.
Ayaat parked the car in front of the gate to find one of Fahad's friends irritating Sofia. She hit her head against the steering wheel before jumping out of the car; she gritted her teeth as the rage in her grew with each step. Sofia's eyes opened wide seeing Ayaat pace towards the guy, she gasped seeing Ayaat grab him by the neck pushing him down making him fall to his knees. The college came to a standstill seeing the sight before them.
'Come on; tell her how much you like her dress. Come on compliment her duppatta and her eyes now' Ayaat pushed him down further making him grunt,
'Sorry man. Let go of me' The guy groaned with pain and embarrassment.
'Come on then, I'm still waiting' Ayaat tightened her grip on the back of his neck; both Zain and Asim grinned as they walked towards Ayaat. They folded their arms enjoying the sight in front of them; both proud of the feisty woman before them. Zain's eyes grew smaller looking towards Fahad's gang of friends approaching Ayaat, all of them stopped seeing his expressions and stepped back.
'What the hell do you want now?' The guy snapped going red,
'Apologise to her now. Say it now, say I'm sorry aapi, I won't bother you from now on. SAY IT!' Ayaat seethed angry at the behaviour of some of these guys, she's had enough. NO-ONE PUSHES AYAAT AHMED KHAN ABOUT!
'I'm sorry Aapi!' The guy tried looking up at Sofia, his head went down from Ayaat's push and almost stumbled forward and hit the ground. He looked back at her horrified; who the hell was this girl?
'I swear if I ever find you teasing another girl, I'll make sure you have your eyes torn out' Ayaat spoke in a warning tone with wide, red eyes. She was shivering with rage, Sofia pulled her shoulder to calm her down. She looked up at Zain, her eyes relaxed seeing his arms fall to his side. She turned around and wiped her tears, almost running towards her car. Sofia got inside and looked at Ayaat as she started the engine and drove off. Everyone's head turned towards her car and watched her leave silently. Zain stood in front of the guy,
'So you were teasing my sister?' Zain spoke calmly, 'And you made that girl cry? Do you know what you have done?'
'I'm sorry Zain, I wasn't teasing man, I was just talking to her. I'll never do it again... I didn't make her cry, she was angry. She was going to kill me today. I swear she wasn't crying, SHE'S DANGEROUS' He repeated jumping onto his feet and running towards Fahad. Zain stared at the gawking audience who dispersed with his one look; Fahad threw him a threatening look before exiting the college making Zain bark.
'She cries when she's angry doesn't she?' Asim hit Zain's shoulder,
'Yeah' Zain nodded at Asim.
-
''Ayaat has bone marrow cancer' Nikita repeated again, this time her voice cracked making her words come out as a whisper. She stared into their alarming eyes that were going to slice her any minute. Nikita held onto the side of her chair pushing herself up before falling back seeing Zoya's body falter with Asad's arm bolting up to support his wife. Asad glared at Nikita,
'I swear Dr Sengupta, I will not spare you for playing such a horrid joke with us. Do you have any idea what you're saying?' Asad seethed, a part of him shaken up from her words; this doctor was crazy.
'Mr Khan, Ayaat is like my child. I would never joke about such a thing' Nikita whispered a reply as tears overflowed from her eyes; she couldn't see Zoya in this state, she had lost one child, another would kill her.
'NOO!' Zoya yelled at her removing Asad's hand off her, she paced towards Nikita grabbing her by the collar, 'WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS NIKITA?! You know what Ayaat means to me, I considered you my friend and YOU-' Zoya let go of her and turned towards Asad who stumbled back a few steps. She's lying Asad, nothing is wrong with our baby. She is fine, I mean I would know' Zoya brushed her tears with the back of her hands.
'Zoya, I thought Ayaat told you that's why- I didn't have the courage to tell you. She's been having regular chemotherapy sessions. If all this was a lie, I would be the happiest person right now Zoe. Trust me.' Nikita forced herself up trying to go all doctor-mode knowing that would give her the required strength. 'Here are her reports, we need a bone marrow-' She was cut off by Asad who grabbed the piece of paper off her and stared at it without blinking. He looked up at Zoya with red teary eyes, his body started shaking.
'And you were intending on telling us when?' Asad shouted at her before running out of the door leaving a shattered Zoya behind. Zoya pressed out her tears before falling back onto the chair, Nikita rushed around the table and got on her knees,
'I'm sorry Zoya, I'm soo soo sorry!' Nikita whispered placing her head on Zoya's knees. Nikita's head shot up as she realised she had to inform Ayaat who also would be real upset with her. She ran around the desk and dialled furiously before grunting,
Ayaat please pick up sweetheart' Nikita pleaded.
'So' Ayaat sighed, 'No don't say anything about that. Just quietly answer what I'm going to ask you. When are you meeting him?' She asked Sofia,
'Okay. Soon.' Sofia smiled, Ayaat looked at her; what kind of answer is that?
'How soon?'
'Wait let me answer this call.' Sofia took Ayaat's glares before picking it up, 'It's chachu... Hello?'
'Sofia beta, is Ayaat with you?' Asad asked from the other side trying to keep his voice normal.
'Jee, chachu. Here talk to her...' Sofia held the phone against Ayaat's ears,
ABBUUU!' Ayaat squealed into the phone.
'My baby. Where are you?' Asad's voice cracked.
'I'm just coming home. What's up?' Ayaat asked, her forehead creased hearing his voice sound different.
'Don't go anywhere. I'm coming home' Asad spoke in a demanding tone before hanging up. Ayaat looked at Sofia confused,
'OKIE DOKES!' Ayaat shrugged her shoulders, 'Put the phone away. And talk to me properly!' Ayaat said sternly.
'You go inside. I'm just going to wait for Abbu' Ayaat got out of the car and walked inside the garden before heading to the outdoor seating area.
'Bhaji, come quickly!' Sofia shouted before entering the house. Ayaat nodded before sitting down, she stared at the results in her hand and smiled. She closed her eyes momentarily, Zain's pleading eyes flashed before her, she tried not to look into them but found herself getting lost in them. She squirmed on the bench before her eyes shot open, she stared at her surrounding and sighed. She got onto her feet and marched from one side to another waiting for her father.
'Zain, what are your plans now?' Asim asked Zain leaning against the car.
'I have no idea. I enjoy working at DZ Connect, I don't really want to go abroad to finish off my studies. I don't know what I'm doing right now to be honest, ask me in a few months, maybe then I'll have an answer' Zain brushed his hair back,
'Are you okay? You seem, different today?' Asim leaned on his shoulder,
'I dunno buddy. When I know the answer, I'll let you know.' Zain spoke lost. They both walked towards the house, Asim didn't know what to say seeing him lost in his own thoughts. Zain halted in his tracks as his eyes landed on Ayaat, Asim patted his shoulder before running into the house. He stepped forward towards her when his phone rang, he took it out and held it against his ears, 'WHAT?' He snapped suddenly alerted, he looked up at an anxious Ayaat.
'Where is Abbu?' Ayaat spoke not so patiently as she glanced towards the gate every moment or so. She jumped from one side to another waiting for him to come so that she could tell him about her results. 'Should I go inside and tell Ammi first?' She asked herself before finding Asad rushing in through the gates. Her eyes lightened up seeing him, she rushed towards him as he too stormed towards her before wrapping his arms around her tightly, picking her up and squeezing her. 'Abbu I' She spoke excitedly hugging him back. Ayaat froze realising there was something wrong with him; she slowly pulled back and stared at his tear stricken face. She wiped his tears away,
'Abbu, what's wrong?' She asked him shaking her head in a no. She watched as he brought his hands towards her face and cupped it before resting his forehead against hers.
'I love you so so so much!' Asad cried, so so much' He kissed her forehead. Zain watched from a few metres away trying to control his own tears, he had never seen Asad Ahmed Khan so vulnerable before. Asad looked shattered as well as scared, scared of losing his only daughter. Now he understood that Ayaat was not wrong in trying to hide this secret from him.
'Abbu, look I-' Ayaat's voice trailed off seeing him nod indicating that he was listening to her. She looked into his eyes that released a tear every moment or so, she blinked innocently at him wanting to know what was wrong. Her hand reached up to his cheeks and wiped his tears away, 'Abbu, don't cry. Look I have some good news for you. Your tears will evaporate when they see what I have in here' She ripped open her envelope and took out the sheets of paper when her eyes fell on his hand holding a folded piece of paper.
'What's that Abbu?' Ayaat looked up at him, but he just stared at her lovingly. Ayaat released the paper from his hand and opened it up to look at it properly. Her eyes read over it quickly, her lips quivered as she looked up at him slowly. Her results flew out of her hands as she stumbled back a few steps unable to look into her father's eyes. She broke into a loud sob staring down at the floor shaking her head; she looked at him with helpless eyes. She shook her head again, Asad nodded at her stepping towards her.
'Nothing will happen-' Asad watched her turn and run into the house. He fell to his knees and looked up into the sky, 'Almighty!' He whispered. He wiped his tears away before picking up the sheets from the floor and read it. His fingers stroked her name on the sheet as he smiled at his daughter's success. He got up onto his feet and rushed inside the house as Zain watched helplessly, feeling another bit broken as he silently watched the second storm take away more of their happiness.
Asad ran past his mother who spun on her feet watching his distressed figure fall at Ayaat's door. 'Ayaat, open the door!' Asad tapped her door trying to control his tears. 'Everything will be just fine, I promise. I promise nothing will happen to you, you'll be just fine. Just fine' He whispered, his lips trembled as images of Zoya's lifeless body lay in his arms from the previous accident.
'Asad, what's wrong? Why are you crying beta?' Dilshad turned him by the shoulder; Asad shook his head in a no while she nodded caressing his face. Sofia ran into the kitchen and poured a glass of water running back with it. Asim halted on the stairs, he looked around himself before staring at Asad's face; he was on the verge of breaking down. He creased his forehead wandering what had happened, his eyes landed on Ayaat's closed door. He slowly came down the stairs and stood leaning against the edge of the sofa as his throat went dry. He looked back as Zain entered the house, in a similar state as Asad except he seemed more defeated than scared.
'You were going work weren't you? You go, please?' Zain looked up at Asim with pleading eyes. He didn't consider Asim to be a stranger but he didn't want him to know about Ayaat's condition. He didn't want Asim to know Ayaat didn't in fact donate her blood to Asim; she was too scared of losing her brother to actually tell him when she found out a few weeks ago.
Asim pointed towards Asad, Zain shook his head in a no before placing his hand over his shoulder. Asim nodded before walking out of the house.
'Ammi' Asad whispered leaning in to his mother's touch before turning towards the door again. 'Ayaat' His hands went over her door stroking it slowly, Dilshad and Sofia stepped back moving towards the sofa knowing they needed to be alone. He rested his forehead against the door, 'Please' He closed his eyes pleading. He moved his head hearing the door click open, he stared with wide eyes as it slowly opened and there she stood shaking. Her big dark eyes released more tears as they stared innocently at him; her hair blew backwards with her hands wrapped around her body. She sniffed every moment or so trying to control herself, her lips trembled. She slowly stepped towards him, brushing her forehead with the back of her hand to remove her hair. Asad took his shaky hands and removed her hair from her forehead before wiping her tears away. He kissed her forehead before hugging her slowly caressing the back of her head.
'Everything will be just fine' Asad whispered. She moved her head away and nodded wiping her tears. He held her results in front of her, she smiled at him.
'Where's Zoya?' Dilshad questioned, Asad looked up with wide eyes.
-
'You knew, didn't you?' Zoya whispered as the car halted in front of the Khan Villa. Zain leaned back against the headrest sighing heavily.
'I'm sorry. She gave me her oath' Zain blinked at Zoya who turned the other way and opened the car door. Zain breathed into his hands before watching her walk around his car, he jumped out of his car and stopped her.
'How did you both... I mean how is she erm. Was she ever going to tell us?' Zoya asked him. Zain held her shoulders,
'She would have. When she finally decided she had enough strength to tell you both. She was scared that if she broke down, you both wouldn't be able to handle it. Especially you' Zain nodded.
'Me?' Zoya's lips trembled. She wiped her tears and walked around him towards the house. Zain followed behind her. Zoya stepped inside the house; everyone looked up from the sofa. Her eyes landed on Ayaat's face hidden in Asad's arms. Ayaat looked at her mother; Zoya looked the other way holding back her tears. She breathed out as she stepped towards her room, Ayaat frowned seeing her mother ignore her; she was upset with her. Ayaat looked at her father who nodded at her,
'Ammi' Ayaat called out to Zoya before getting up, she walked around the sofa and followed her mother, Ammi, listen to me. Ammi, wait' Ayaat held her shoulder but Zoya shrugged it away. Ayaat jumped in front of her, Please angel!' Zoya looked up at her,
'I'm not your angel Ayaat. I'm not your anything' Zoya spoke hurt. Ayaat looked at her father with teary eyes, 'If I was, you would have told me first. There's nothing selfless about hiding your pain from your parents. I told you so many times, so many times to change your habit, do you remember when you used to get hurt when you were little, you used to hide it from me so that you don't hurt me? Do you remember when I found out. You hid it from me to stop these tears' She wiped her eyes and flicked the tears in front of her, 'I'm crying anyway Ayaat. I am your mother...' Zoya paused feeling out of breath, Ayaat put her hand out but Zoya shrugged it away, 'I am still crying Ayaat'
'Ammi, I'm sorry' Ayaat cried trying to hold her but she was pushed back, Asad rushed forward,
'Zoya'
'Don't touch me Asad. Don't touch me' Zoya held her head before falling backwards, Zain ran and held her. Asad picked her up and took her into the bedroom placing her on the bed.
'I'm still crying Ayaat...' Zoya whispered as tears escaped from the side of her eyes. Ayaat fell on her knees holding onto her mother's hand as Asad wiped her tears away before caressing her face. Asad pulled Ayaat onto his lap as father and daughter watched Zoya's pained face in her unconscious state.
'Everything will be just fine' Asad assured his unconscious wife and weeping daughter as well as himself. He kissed the side of Ayaat's face, 'Just fine.'
Ayaat pushed the windows open and winced as the cool breeze hit her face. She looked up into the dark sky that was pouring down, she shivered hearing the thunderstorms. She held her cheek against her shoulder before closing her eyes momentarily allowing the air to stroke her hair.
'You thought you had this planned out didn't you Ayaat?' She asked herself. ''How did you do this?' Her eyes shot open hearing the thunder and lightning, she stumbled back a few steps before being held by something. She placed her hand over his recognising the familiarity of his touches; she turned around and hugged him tightly. 'How did this happen?' She cried.
'It will be fine' Zain whispered brushing her hair; Ayaat tightened her hold against him seeking comfort from his hold. Her eyes opened slowly realising what she was doing; Zain cherished that single moment of having her in his arms. He prepared for the push, but it never came. He looked down at her as she slowly parted from him before staring at his face. Zain took out her medicine from his pocket and placed it into her hand. His hand caressed her face as he looked deep into her eyes.
'I'm sorry Ayaat. And I love you so much' He said softly before turning around to go. His eyes fell on her open window; he looked at her as she stared at him with a blank face. He smiled at her before leaving the room. Ayaat looked back at the window; she ran up to it and closed it shut. She sighed and opened it again.
-
Ayaat walked out of her room dressed for work, she gazed towards the kitchen sadly walking towards the dining table. She sat down next to her father as he lifted her hand and kissed the back of it,
''How are you feeling baby?' Asad asked stroking his fingers on her delicate rosy cheeks.
''I'm fine' Ayaat answered looking at her mother in the kitchen. Zoya had not spoken to Ayaat for the past week, which was not like Zoya who couldn't go without speaking to Ayaat for more than 24 hours. She wiped her tears that rolled out every moment or so. Asad brushed his hand over her head,
''Go' He whispered to her. She nodded at him before walking into the kitchen, she stood behind her mother staring at her back. Zoya turned around and gasped, she tried walking around Ayaat but was stopped as she held onto her shoulder.
''I'm sorry Ammi. Please talk to me, atleast shout at me, hit me but please talk to me. I can't live without talking to you.' Ayaat begged. Zoya's tears started flowing as she looked the other way, ''Please Ammi. Look at me' Ayaat turned her cheek to face her, ''What changed Ammi, you couldn't last 24 minutes without talking to me, 24 hours or 7 days was out of the question. I'm sorry I hid this matter from you, Ammi, please punish me some other way but please don't stop talking to me. I don't know how long I'll survive... Ouch' Ayaat placed her hand over her cheek as she watched her mother fume with teary eyes; Zoya had slapped her.
''Don't you dare say anything like that again' Zoya showed her hand, 'varna, I'll hit you harder. Nothing will happen to you' Zoya cupped her face wiping away her tears. ''You're my baby, and I won't let anything happen to you' She kissed Ayaat's forehead before looking up at Asad who tapped Ayaat's head.
''Are you crazy. Speak like that again and I'll ground you for months.' Asad warned.
''Oh really' Ayaat turned around.
''Why have you been punishing our poor baby Zoya. You have no idea how this week has passed for her' Asad wrapped his arm around Ayaat. Zoya stepped closer to Ayaat and caressed her cheek with one hand,
''I was punishing myself Asad. I was punishing myself for not being able to see that my baby was in so much pain. I was a mother and I couldn't see -'
''Ammi, I'm not in pain dekho-'Ayaat paused holding her cheeks.
''You be quiet!' Zoya scolded her. Asad placed his hand over her cheek before wrapping his arm over her and hugging the two precious gems in his life.
Asim stood near the dining table watching the little family moment, as much as he should've been unhappy with the smile on their faces, his heart lit up seeing Ayaat and Zoya smile. For the past week, something was missing but now he feels like he's found it; her smile. Asim turned around sighing, he rolled up the documents in his hand and placed it inside his coat pocket; he wanted to delay his plans, for a little longer for the girl he has accepted as his sister. He closed his eyes, he couldn't hate her, he wanted answers but he was willing to trade that for the smile on her face.
Asim turned to find Zain standing there with the same expressions on his, he watched him cough and control his emotions before walking towards the dining table and sitting down trying to eat his breakfast normally. There was nothing normal about his behaviour, post sangeet party he had become a mute member of the house. He wondered what the hell actually happened to this family, everyone's behaviour was getting weirder and weirder. He gazed towards his phone,
'Tuesday sounds perfect. Don't forget our promises, I'll be waiting :)' Asim's eyes glistened with excitement reading the message over and over again. He ran upstairs and scurried through the cupboard taking out a wrapped box. He stared into the mirror,
'I have waited so long for this moment, so long that I have forgotten the months, the weeks, the days, the hours, the minutes I have spent thinking of you' Asim spoke excitedly shaking his head. 'My heart will recognise you Soap. My heart will recognise your beautiful presence.' He sighed jumping up into the air, 'thank you for finally agreeing to meet me, I hope you're as excited as I am.' He brushed his hair back before rushing downstairs and out of the door.
'Asim?' Ayaat rushed towards the door,
'I'll see you later!' Asim shouted behind him. Ayaat made a face before staring towards her father,
'Why is he in such a rush?'
'BOOO!' Ayaat jumped out of the way shrieking, she turned around and almost smacked the person out of the way, Hassan held his hands up in the air defensively while Ayaan facepalm'd himself. He hit his son across the head watching Asad fume on the other side.
'Hassan!!' Asad shouted, Hassan gulped hiding behind Ayaat,
'Bachao' Hassan pleaded peeking sideways, Ayaat burst out laughing with Hussain who entered the house. Ayaat side hugged him before taking him inside, Ayaan pushed Hassan inside seeing him stand there shaking.
'Hassan, come inside bacha. Ignore your chachu' Zoya showed her hands; Hassan ran past Asad and hid behind her in the kitchen. Asad sat down on the dining table feeling content seeing his apologetic face. Ayaat turned around and looked at Ayaan who's eyes were fixed on her, she shook her head asking him what was wrong. He smiled back at her before taking her into a hug making Zoya whimper holding onto Asad's hand.
'How are you feeling sweetheart?' Ayaan whispered kissing her forehead,
'Your sweetheart is feeling fine as ever' She dazzled her dimples at Ayaan making him look over at Zoya; she's your complete reflection Mona.
-----
Ayaat looked back at her family as they gathered around the sofa watching TV, Ayaan and Humeira had been staying over for the past few days, everyone had taken days off to enjoy some time together. Some of her cousins were coming back from London tomorrow; she couldn't help but miss Najma who had been making excuses to avoid meeting her or anyone. At first she felt suffocated having everyone around her, she felt as if everything was forced but slowly realised how wrong she was. No one forced them to act like that towards her; they loved her unconditionally enough to understand that nothing will happen to her. Her eyes met her father's for a moment, she shook her head before breathing out, he nodded back at her. She was overwhelmed with all the emotions; the last straw was the family videos they were all rummaging through. Ayaat grabbed hold of the side of the staircase; she couldn't bear to see their faces any longer.
She's been watching her mother cry herself to sleep; her heart wrenching cries travelled to her ears every night. She didn't miss those flicker of emotions on her parent's face every time they looked at her. Her father's over-protective nature and his ability to love unconditionally makes her feel stronger every day as her body physically weakened with every passing moment. She had finally lost faith in Zain's faith; that everything was going to be okay. Having realised before anyone else that her chemotherapy sessions were not helping her at all, she was trying her level best to hide the side effects from her family members.
She pushed the terrace door open and stepped out into the moonlight as the light air brushed passed her as if to welcome her, comfort her. She let her hair sway behind her as she stepped towards the edge of the terrace and looked into the distant; her eyes witnessed how the smallest of stars brightened up the darkness around her. She stared at the moon who's beauty no mere human being could have ever compete with; she sighed remembering the moments closest to her heart. Her eyes fell on a figure just below her, her heartbeats rose as her eyes recognised Zain when he stepped into the light. He was lost in his own thoughts as he wandered around the garden; Ayaat followed his steps as she placed her hand over her heart. His eyes met hers as he turned around,
Those who hide things from you for your benefit, to make sure they don't hurt you, to make sure you can live happily can never break your trust. That is not breaking your trust, that's trust they have in you to understand that whatever they have done for you is to help you.
'What kind of deception is yours Zain?' Ayaat asked him as they came face to face in her heart's court,
'What do you think Ayaat? I am the deception you have trust in' Zain whispered back,
'Why didn't you tell me?' Ayaat cried, his fingers stroked her tears away,
'I didn't want to see the hatred in your eyes for me that I have seen for my mother' He replied with tears in his eyes, 'Because I love you to the extent that my heart is fearful of every step you take away from me. You are that dream I never thought would come true, I'm scared Ayaat. I'm scared of losing you, I always was and always will be.'
'Why? Do you not have faith in our love?' Ayaat asked softly,
'I have faith Ayaat, along with that faith; I also carry the burden of your past. You not loving me, I can live with but you hating me I cannot. I'd rather die than live knowing that you hate me...'
'Now I'm scared' Zoya replied blinking,
'Why?'
'Because I cannot live without you...' A lone tear escaped her eyes. She put her hand up when a sudden gush of wind broke her out of her thoughts. She pushed her hair backwards and stared towards Zain who mirrored similar emotions to her. She wrapped her arms around herself looking the other way; she sniffed trying to control her emotions. She looked back down to find him gone, disappointed, she turned around to find him coming towards her with a blanket. She froze watching him wrap it around her tightly, before playing his fingers on her forehead, removing her fringe out of the way to look into her eyes. His hands brushed down her shoulder to her arms,
'Whether you believe it or not, I love you and always will' Zain whispered as she blinked at him, 'and wrap up tight tonight, the weather is a bit chilly today.' He stepped backwards, 'Learn to cover your legs when you sleep, and you did it yesterday but no more from today, don't you dare miss your pills' He warned her, 'I would ask you to come inside but I guess I have lost that right' Ayaat creased her forehead; he could shout at her to take her medicines, but not ask her to come inside? She sighed before walking past him; she looked back at him, her eyes sparkled into his. Zain stood there mesmerized as he lost himself in her eyes, he stepped forward and watched her leave.
'No matter how angry you are at me, you will never imply that I have lost any right over you. You still love me Ayaat, I'll get on my knees and beg you to forgive me but I will never let your love die. I have deceived you, but our love is too pure to be compared to deception. I love you so much, so much that it hurts. I want to be there for you Ayaat, don't think I haven't noticed how weak you've become. I am trying my best Ayaat, I'm looking for alternative solutions. I won't let anything happen to you I promise. I wish, I wish I could've given every ounce of my blood to help you. I wish my strength could have aided you. I have seen your eyes, I have heard your heart's calls, I will not fall weak because we are your strength' Zain stroked his cheeks and looked at his wet fingers before laughing. 'Enough crying Zain, you have to win back your ladylove. You have made your mind up, don't lose hope now. Everything will be okay, Ayaat. I promise you.'
'Goodnight beautiful' Asad kissed Ayaat's forehead before brushing hair back, his thumb brushed her cheek continuously. Zoya brought Ayaat's hand to her lips before holding it against her cheek,
'Sleep tight baby' Zoya whispered with tears in her eyes. She leaned towards Asad and sighed,
'Look at her smile Zoya. She looks absolutely beautiful, you have given me an angel; I could never imagine this was possible' Asad looked at Zoya, 'I never thought anyone as beautiful as you could exist in this world, but my daughter, our daughter Zoya.' His fingers trailed on Ayaat's forehead, 'I can't live without her, because she's from you' Asad sighed. Ayaat turned her body to face the other way, Zoya let go instantly.
'Let her sleep Asad. Come on, Ali and Zuhair are coming tomorrow. We need to wake up early.' Zoya sighed. Asad got up and held her shoulders before kissing her forehead,
'I love you' He pressed his eyes at her,
'I know and I love you too, more and more with each passing day.' She smiled back at him.
Ayaat sat upright on her bed as she heard the door close behind her parents. She wiped her tears smiling before falling back on the bed.
'All my dreams have come true, I have no regrets. I have my Abbu' She sighed drifting off to sleep.
'Go to sleep Asim, I swear you're way too bloody hyper today. What have you eaten yaar?' Zain brushed his hair back and closed the door behind him. This guy, honestly he shook his head at his high energy levels at this time of the night. He carried himself down the stairs in deep thought, he had to get to the bottom of all this. Everything was going wrong in his home and he felt helpless. First, he needed to find Tanveer and then finish this once and for all. He gazed towards Ayaat's door and smiled; he knew the window was left open for him but he didn't want to scare her at this time. He carried on walking towards the kitchen; he looked at the glass in his hand and sighed. His legs found themselves walking closer towards Ayaat's door, he opened it and entered shamelessly knowing anyone who saw him at this time would get the wrong idea but he had to check on her for his heart's content. He was about to turn on the lamp but realised the moonlight was streaming in through the open window and lightened up the room anyways. He almost stumbled over hearing Ayaat's low shrieks as she suddenly started stretching her legs before squeezing herself into a crouched position.
'Ayaat?' Zain asked alarmed, he jumped onto the bed and picked her up unto his lap. He brushed her hair back as he continuously rubbed her arm before taking her hand and rubbing it in between his.
'Owww, Zain, it hurts so much.' Ayaat hooked her arm around his neck pulling herself closer to him, her body still shaking.
'Where does it hurt?' He whispered into her ears rubbing her shoulders and her stomach. 'Does it hurt here?' He held his hand over her chest, she nodded against his shoulder.
'It hurts everywhere' Ayaat cried releasing more of her tears, Zain gripped her tighter holding onto her for dear life. He kissed the side of her head shaking back and forth trying to get her to stop shivering.
'Ayaat, look at me... everything will be fine' Zain nodded at her brushing her forehead, she blinked at him as tears strolled out from the side of her eyes. He shook his head wiping her tears away. 'You're fine, just fine' He whispered softly.
'WH-who are you trying to convince Zain, you or me?' She half laughed tiredly as he placed her head back on the pillow. He got off the bed and pulled her draw open as she stared at him breathless, waiting for an answer. He looked at her,
'Just myself' He answered picking her head up and placing the pill inside her mouth before making her drink water. He stroked his fingers over her cheek as she watched him with thankful eyes. 'Goodnight' Zain whispered reluctantly pulling the duvet over her. He admired her as she slowly closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.
He closed the door behind him and sighed closing his eyes. Images of the moment inside the room flashed before his eyes, her pained expressions and her low helpless sobs; she didn't want anyone to know of her pain.
-
'Where's Charlie?' Zain entered the kitchen asking Zoya,
'Good morning beta, he's still in his room arguing with Humeira about Zuhair' Zoya laughed bringing the food onto the dining table, 'What's that in your hand?' Asad looked up from his seat, curious.
'Good morning Abbu' Ayaat flopped onto the seat next to him and started drinking her juice. She looked up at Zain to find him staring at her, she shrugged her shoulders realising he was asking her something.
'Zain, beta, tell me what's that in your hands?' Zoya shook him out of his thoughts, he looked at Zoya.
'Well... thought I'd tell you I've seriously thought about what Charlie asked me...' Zain started, Zoya creased her brows in confusion, 'My results...'
'Oh, I'm really sorry beta. Well done, we didn't get to celebrate your results with everything happening. Good thing Ali and Zuhair are coming back, we'll celebrate everyone's results' Zoya kissed his forehead, Ayaat got up from her seat seeing his expressions convey something else.
'It's not that. Here are some letters... I-' He paused looking at Ayaat, Zoya took the letters from his hands,
'London University? And what's this, New York?' Zoya looked at him baffled. She looked back at Asad who shrugged his shoulders innocently indicating he had no faults in this matter and carried on eating his breakfast. 'What are you saying Zain, you are considering moving?' Zoya asked upset. Ayaat's throat went dry.
'Why not?' Zain shrugged his shoulders,
'But beta...' Zoya started,
'Let him go Ammi. You know what, I've just spoken to Zeenta khala and Anwar Khalu, I'll go back and tell them to TAKE him to New York, even better' Ayaat spoke sarcastically, feeling irritated,
'See see, I'm leaving because of her, you see her attitude, so much nakre, she's driving me away' Zain threw at her as he spoke to Zoya who shook her head,
'Ayaat, shush! Zain beta, I don't want you to leave us like this... I mean there are so many universities here, I don't like it when my kids are far away from me. But... give it another thought, if you really want to leave after that... then I won't stop you' Zoya placed her hand on his cheek before nodding her head, 'Have breakfast' She wiped her tears. Zain looked at Ayaat who looked like she was going to blow,
'What?' Zain gave her a blank look as she stormed off from the dining table and shut her door loudly.
'What happened now?' Asad looked up from his breakfast; 'I didn't say anything' He looked at Zoya.
'She said she wants to get changed. No-one did anything to Miss Moody' Zain sat down smiling.
'HOW THE HELL CAN HE JUST LEAVE LIKE THAT... JUST LIKE THAT' Ayaat kicked her shoe boxes that dispersed all over. What does he think of himself, he didn't even tell me' She opened her wardrobe and brought out a white churidar dress. Her eyes fell on her results envelope,
'Heyyy' Zain purred into her ears wrapping his arms over her stomach, Why is my lady upset today?' He kissed her cheek; she placed her hand over his and sighed.
'Exam results next week Zain, I'm scared. What if I don't pass?' Ayaat mumbled nervously. She looked back at him, he pouted at her pretending to kiss her, she dodged her head back, hmmm' She frowned.
'Don't worry. I have full faith that you've done more than passing' Zain turned her around held his forehead against hers, Just close your eyes and...' He placed her hand over his chest,
'And...' She whispered back,
'And...'
She waited for a moment for him to continue, not hearing anything she opened her eyes and stared at his grinning face; she pushed him away and moved back.
'And you'll know' He answered laughing.
'And I'll know' Ayaat looked into the mirror smiling, she grabbed the envelope and ran out of her room, she watched him walk through the front door, she ran behind him.
'Zain? Zain...' She shouted behind him, she stopped a few metres behind him panting, a small smile lit up her face watching him turn to face her when a pair of hands wrapped around his neck and pulled him the other way, Ayaat almost lost her balance seeing a face appear resting on his shoulder forcing him to hug her. 'WHAT THE FFF' She thought to herself.
'Zain, wow it's been so long' The girl broke the hug and laughed,
'I wish it was longer Aaliyah' Zain removed her hand off him and glared at her, 'how many times have I told you to'
'I know I know you don't like hugs but I was so excited to see you neighbour.' Aaliyah smiled, making Ayaat shiver with irritation.
'...not to touch me' Zain continued, 'stay away from me!' He put his hand out to stop her from coming any closer. 'Why the hell did you come back?'
'Holidays, I missed you guys... London isn't too great!' Aaliyah shrugged her shoulders. Zain was about to turn around, Aaliyah stretched forward and stared at Ayaat weirdly,
'Who's that behenji?' Aaliyah made a face, Ayaat's jaw dropped to the floor,
'What the hell, did she just call me a behenji?' Ayaat mumbled to herself. She glared at Zain who had similar expressions on his face,
'Who the hell do you think you are, that's-'
'I don't want to know who she is' Aaliyah told Zain, Ayaat's hand scrunched up the envelope in her hand as she took steps forward towards them, she stood on the other side of Zain,
'Tell her to stop trying so hard' Ayaat spoke in a bitter tone before running towards the gate; she brushed past a shocked male and grabbed his mother with open arms,
'Phoopiee!' Ayaat squealed with excitement. Ali turned around, mesmerised as an unknown girl flew past him in an white attire; his eyes sparkled watching her back.
'Ayaat, my child' Najma cupped her face, it's so good to see you, how are you?'
'I'm all good, how are you? Okay let's go inside come on' Ayaat wrapped her arms around Najma's shoulder and walked her inside, she looked at Zain; I will sort you and her out later. Zain blinked at her expressions and then Aaliyah, he shook his head in a no watching her leave.
'Zuhair, how are you?' Zain smiled greeting Ayaan's eldest son,
'I'm good, how you keeping up?' Zuhair punched his stomach, 'Is that Ayaat? Is Chachi inside?' Zain nodded at him laughing leaving Aaliyah watching the small re-union with a feeling of content.
-
'So this is Zuhair?' Ayaat smiled widely meeting everyone,
'YUPPP! My big brother' Sofia spoke excitedly, Ayaat jumped out of her seat and side hugged him,
'It's so good to finally meet you Bhaijaan, she's been going on and on about you' Ayaat laughed,
'and this is my BIG BROTHER ALI!' Innayah hugged her brother, Ali laughed at her.
'HEY, Golu where have you been hiding? Feels like I'm meeting you after agesss' Ayaat giggled taking Innayah into a hug. 'And hey, it's nice to meet you' She put her hand out whilst still half hugging Innayah.
'It's good to meet you too' Ali replied formally. Zoya stared at Ali being able to see a resemblance between him and the old Asad, she brushed it off.
'I still can't believe the resemblance between you and chachi' Zuhair spoke disbelievingly. Everyone laughed at his comment, Zoya cupped his face,
'and I cannot believe how much you have grown up. My little baby!' Zoya kissed her forehead. Ayaat smiled seeing her family so happy, the smile on Ayaan and Humeira's face was a sight to see. She stared at her phone,
'Hello? Right?' Ayaat moved away from everyone, 'Okay, I'll come by now, Zain? Okay that's fine' She turned around and shrieked as Innayah's glass of juice went straight down her white dress. Ayaat stared at Innayah's guilty face, 'Golu, I have to go office, what have you done?' She wiped it but the purple stain was refusing to come off. 'Zain, something important has come up, we have to go in to the office.'
'Okay that's fine.' Zain nodded.
'Ayaat but you' Asad got up feeling uneasy. Ayaat turned around and blinked innocently,
'Yes Abbu?' Zoya shook her head in a no behind her. Asad nodded,
'Go change yourself into something colourful 'Asad cupped her face, 'I don't like you wearing dull colours, it's good it got stained, you're meant for colours' He kissed her forehead laughing; may the Almighty fill your life with happiness.
'Abbu, you are too much. Honestly' Ayaat hugged him, everyone watched the moment between them. She ran inside and changed into a pair of blue jeans and tucked a baby pink blouse into her jeans. She walked out with her car keys to which Zain rolled his eyes,
'Better?' She asked her father.
'Much better. Now go, come back soon' He brushed her hair. Ali stepped back feeling slightly uncomfortable; His mamu's daughter in jeans and tops? He stared at everyone's face waiting for a reaction but nothing came as they all smiled at her and waved goodbye.
'Zain, oh good you've turned around on my first call. Thought you've forgotten other people exist than your pathetic neighbour.' Ayaat grumbled throwing the keys at him,
'Jealous are we?' Zain caught the keys with a smirk.
'Oh please.' Ayaat pushed passed him and sat inside the car. Zain smiled widely wanting to jump up into the air; this should be fun.
------
Zain entered his office to find Imran sat on the waiting chairs.
'Sorry fufa, you're here? Did you need anything, should've called me' Zain hugged him and then stared at him for an answer; he was sweating profusely,
'What the hell are you doing here?' Imran barked, Zain looked at him confused before following his gaze.
'Hello' Tanveer smiled.
P.S. Sorry about the spelling errors. So tired right now! Ciaoo my lovess
Edited by MrMrsAsyaKhan - 11 years ago
Health and Fitness
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani
