SS: Abbu EPILOGUE/Page 72 - Page 37

Hey I unresed my comment on pg 62

wonderfull...

Woww...awsum!!!..

Sorry for late comment

Heyyy

Hey this is such an awsome story.. Thanks to your friend princess101 for sending PM and the link.. I have been reading this SS since Sunday .. chapter by chapter.. ofcourse in breaks and today I completed all the fifteen.. .

Nice update

UPDATE PLEASEEE

Okay, I feel sad writing this. This is the last update before the epilogue. I don't know what an epilogue really is, but for me, it will be just like any other update except I'll bring the story to a standpoint. I know after reading this, you'll have a lot of questions, I promise to answer most of them in the epilogue which will be in two weeks (or more weeks). I don't usually update in Ramadhan, If I can't, it will be the day after eid. For those who are interested in a sequel, if you even remember this story then, I will start writing it after my brother's wedding in August. This isn't an Asya story completely, I just want to re-iterate that again.
Once again, thank you so much for your wonderful, supportive comments. They mean so so much! I hope I have done justice, if anything doesn't make sense, please ignore logic and carry on reading and throw your chappals at me! Love you loads <3 (Almost 26 pages, pretty long update, just warning you beforehand!)

Chapter 16

Zain kissed her forehead before brushing his hand over her eyes to sleep. He admired the smile on her face as she tried to get to sleep, for his sake. Zain turned around slowly but aggressively looking at the pair of eyes staring into the room. He closed the door behind him before glaring up at Ahsaan whose eyes were still on Ayaat.

'How is sh-' Zain stormed towards him and grabbed him by the collar, Ahsaan held his hands up defensively allowing a furious Zain who was once on his knees to the latter pleading for him to save Ayaat, drag him out of the hospital. Something had changed today.

'Why are you here now?' Zain barked at him throwing him away, Ahsaan stumbled back a few steps before staring at him.

'Zain, listen to me. I just wanted to see how she was' Ahsaan explained himself, not sure why he came without telling his mother. A part of him was pulling him towards Ayaat, the pull was so strong and so fierce it was burning his insides to ashes. He had been squirming like a fish in his bedroom for the past week as he fought himself to stay away from her, in the 18 years he had been breathing; this was the first time he felt like he answered his heart's calls.

'See how she is?' Zain spat at him, 'After everything you've done. Correct me if I'm wrong AHSAAN, but you walked away from her, refusing to help her when she needed you the most. Why are you here? What do you want now? Yes, she is okay, and soon enough she will be better than okay. You deceived all of us Ahsaan, what do you have to say about that? If she was to be standing in front of you right now, will you be able to meet her eyes? Did you get what you came for or are you waiting for her to stop breathing to satisfy your mother's evil desires?' Zain questioned him,

'I er Zain'

'Your mother has wronged many people. I don't know why you hate Asad chachu, but I can tell you that if your hatred is based on Tanveer Ahmed's words, you've got it all wrong' Zain stared at him; he didn't know how to tell him he was wronging his own parents and sibling.

'Listen Zain, nothing about my mother.' Ahsaan pointed at him,

'Is she even your mother?' Zain remarked,

'No she isn't' He spoke proudly, 'But she is better than my parents who abandoned me, who thought I wasn't worth anything. She is-'

'Enough praises Ahsaan. You really believe everything she told you? Did she not tell you about everything she has done to this family?' Zain so badly wanted to tell him the truth about his identity. But, if Asad and Zoya hadn't said anything, there must be a reason.

'What are you talking about? You don't know Asad Ahmed Khan-'

'And you do?' Zain raised his eyebrow, 'I have lived with him for the past 18 years of my life, I know him better than you can imagine so don't try to instigate me against my own. Especially someone like you who can be so easily manipulated by a woman like Tanveer to go out and deceive people who took him in as their own. What did she want? What was your motive Ahsaan? Don't tell me you knew about Ayaat's condition, you had planned to step back when she needed you the most and leave us all helpless? Was that your big plan? How else could you have destroyed Asad Ahmed Khan?' Zain asked him, looking him in the eye without blinking. Ahsaan stepped forward,

'You lived with him for 18 years yet he disowned you in seconds?' Ahsaan spoke back bitterly, Zain whimpered momentarily, 'He hates you Zain, in the 18 years you have lived with him, he still treated you like a stranger so why are you defending him now?'

'You'll never understand even if I explained it to you. Go now Ahsaan, go back to Tanveer. She wouldn't be too happy with you. The day you learn to make your own decisions, come back to me that day and ask me about my relationship with Asad Ahmed Khan. A word of advice, learn from your mistakes, learn from what she gave you' Zain looked at him trying remind him about the love Ayaat has given him, 'Because if you do not allow your conscience to make the right decisions today, forget Ayaat, forget anyone, you will not be able to forgive yourself tomorrow. You call her your mother, don't you? Go and ask your mother what her real motive is. She wants him to beg at her feet, but it is she who should be crying for forgiveness. While you're at it Ahsaan, ask her about her past deeds, ask her why she is hell bent on destroying everyone when the world has done nothing to her except trust her. Ask her whether she will blink if anything happens to Ayaat. Ask her if it will bother her if anything happens to you, because as far as I know, she likes to play twisted games with the lives of innocent children' Zain walked back inside without listening to what Ahsaan might have to say in defence of his mother, Tanveer. Ahsaan stood outside the hospital staring up at it trying to process Zain's words; how can his mother be wrong, what games was he talking about?

'I don't know how to tell you Ayaat, that I love you like my own. Whatever I did was for my mother, your father has wronged her. I cannot deceive the mother who has brought me up, I want to save you Ayaat trust me I do. I'm just so helpless right now, I'm sorry you're having to suffer for your father's misdeeds. Your father is being stubborn Ayaat, if he asked for my mother's forgiveness; she would allow me to save you.' Ahsaan spoke teary eyed, Ayaat didn't know about his deception yet, he couldn't imagine how badly she would break down and lose faith. He dreaded Tanveer's next move when she will reveal the documents to the family. He knew his mother would want to exchange his help for something from him; Asad Ahmed Khan would have nothing to give.

-

'I've never eaten anything as amazing as this halwa' Ayaat smiled widely ignoring her mother's scolding,

'Ayaat, slowly. Stop moving' Zoya hit her arm trying to button her shirt. Zoya had been fussing for the past fifteen minutes trying get Ayaat ready but she was too busy eating the delicacies packed by her loving grandmother. Dilshad had prepared one dish after another the whole week she was here, obviously on Ayaat's demands.
'Oi, your daadi has more prepared at home, eat then. Ayaat bacha, Ayaat' Zoya watched with wide eyes as she choked from eating too fast, her eyes started watering but she refused to stop moving. Zoya grabbed a glass of water and made her drink it rubbing her back. Ayaat breathed out before looking up at her mother with a grin on her face, Asad burst out laughing at her antics.

'Pagal ladki' Asad shook his head seeing her move side to side going back to her halwa pot not learning her lesson.

'What do I do with this girl?' Zoya hit her forehead dramatically; Ayaat paused and looked at her father,

'Bollywood Ammi!' Ayaat squealed, she covered her legs with the hospital bedding while Zoya pulled it down.

'Humein jaana hai, ya tumhe yahi rukhna hai?' Zoya raised her eyebrow,

'Couldn't you have brought me some other clothes?' Ayaat frowned staring at her three quarter leggings and denim shorts.

'What's wrong with these?' Zoya asked her rolling the sleeves up her arm. She stared at the needle still stuck on top of her hand.

'Nurse, can I keep this in?' Ayaat asked enthusiastically pointing at the needle with her finger, placing her tongue out sideways.

'Are you crazy?' Zoya hit her head,

'Ouch Ammi' Ayaat pouted rubbing the back of her head,
'Stop staring at it then...' She made a face at her mother. Zoya shook her head wanting to sell-o-tape her mouth. She couldn't be happier though to see her smiling, she was back to herself. In the past week, she had brought the hospital to life; it didn't look like she was sleeping in an unconscious state for over a week before that. It was as if the corridors never heard any cries or any calls of desperation.

'I'll take it out now' The nurse walked around Asad and slowly lifted the sticky bits making Ayaat wince as it pulled against her skin.

'Careful' Asad spoke in a stern voice; his worrying eyes stared at the needle as it slowly came out.
'Doctor, could you make sure her medicines are not injected into her anymore. I mean could you make sure they're orally taken' Asad looked at the nurse making sure she heard right.

'Bleurgh! No way Abbu!' Ayaat put her tongue out scrunching up her face at the thought of taking more pills and syrups. She'd rather be injected over and over again.

'I didn't ask you and I am not going through the torture of watching you get injected over and over again, it gives me the shivers' Asad gave her look that had her breaking into a laughing fit. He sat down next to her and pulled the scarf wrap down to cover her forehead. Her rosy pink cheeks had him smiling at her, his daughter was glowing. He blocked out all negative thoughts and concentrated on this small moment as he watched her speak to him, making all sorts of expressions explaining all the movies she had watched while they left her here to suffer forgetting that they were there, sleeping beside her. Zoya moved Ayaat's legs off the bed and put her converses on smiling at Asad admiring his little baby girl. Zoya grabbed her bags while Asad scooped her petite frame unto his arms and cradled her out of the room.

'I've grabbed the prescription off Dr Sengupta. She said she will call you when she is free' Zuhair told Zoya who nodded back at him before watching Asad walk off in deep conversation with Ayaat as she flapped her pained legs.

'My bacha' Dilshad kissed her forehead stopping Asad at the door. She recited a few holy verses and blew it onto Ayaat caressing her hair. Ayaat smiled back at her adorable grandmother who looked like she was going to blow away any future trouble with her heavy blows and determined face.

'Ammi, how long are you going to make us stand here?' Asad rolled his eyes making Dilshad grumble.

'As long as Ammi doesn't slap all the problems away from Ayaat's life with her chappals' Zoya smiled at Asad.

'Ajao' Dilshad shook her head taking them inside. Ayaat's eyes fell on Zain standing at the top of the stairs behind Ayaan. He brought his hand over his face before revealing a funny face, Ayaat laughed in Asad's arm clutching onto his shirt.

'Mujhe bhi joke sunao' Asad looked down at her, Zoya moved her eyes towards the stairs. Ayaat pressed her eyes watching him draw circles around his face, then pointing to his smiling lips before putting his fingers up at her holding his indent finger against his thumb; perfecto. He winked at her making her hide in Asad's arms as he disappeared into her room.

'How do you feel?' Zoya caressed Ayaat's forehead placing her head back on the pillow after helping her get changed.

'I wish I didn't feel so weak. I feel helpless not being able to stand on my feet properly. I'm not even disabled, I don't know how anyone lives like this' Ayaat sighed getting back up and sitting down against the headrest.

'I know my bacha. Don't worry; you'll be strong again soon enough.' Zoya smiled grabbing the fruit bowl and starting to cut the fruits passing it to Ayaat piece by piece. She looked up to find Asad settling beside Ayaat on the other side of the bed. He tucked himself under the duvet with her before passing her a box. Ayaat exhaled,

'The amount of phones I go through every month, you might as well buy me a phone shop' Ayaat opened the box and smiled seeing her new phone.

'That's because you're special. Asad Ahmed Khan's daughter needs to keep up to date with the latest gadgets and technology... like your gadget freak mother' Asad's voice trailed off before winking at Zoya.

'I'm not anything like Ammi' Ayaat grinned grabbing her ipad from the side table whilst Asad picked up his ringing phone.

'Hey Prasad. What happened? Right right?' He nodded into his phone watching Ayaat.

'La, la' Ayaat put her hands up one by one, 'La la la la' Ayaat giggled spinning her hands and then pointing upwards into a Michael Jackson pose whilst Asad stared at the parrot on the screen imitating Ayaat. Zoya burst out laughing seeing Asad's expressions remembering her crazy antics 18 years ago.

'Haan, Prasad. We'll make the announcement next week. No, everything was sorted last month. Yes, No, I'll inform Ayaan about the transfer. Thank you. Bye' Asad put the phone down, 'Nothing like your mother?' He pinched her nose, 'apart from being her exact clone' Ayaat laughed mischievously before grinning.
'My own daughter is nothing like me' Asad frowned,

'Stop the drama. You know she may look like me, and I agree I've passed on some of my craziness' Asad raised his eyebrow, 'Okay, most of my craziness, she's more like you than you know.'

'Okay fight over me later, you know what you can play a game paying me with gifts to find out who I go after the most' Asad and Zoya looked at her weirdly, she blinked innocently. 'Who's coming today?' Ayaat asked her mother indicating the beautiful aroma outside, her grandmother was cooking something special.

'Your daadu is coming. Your Abbu's abbu' Zoya smiled, Ayaat's eyes glistened with excitement. Ayaat looked at her father who seemed lost.

'This is so exciting, where was he all these days?' Ayaat asked before remembering Asim, 'Where's Asim Ammi, have you spoken to him? Is he going to come back to see me at least? I hope his mother is okay, he left so suddenly' Zoya looked at Asad. 'I don't even have his number; it was in my other phone.'

'He has gone back beta. Emergency you know, don't worry, I'm sure he'll come back one day. He has checked up on you when you were in hospital' Zoya lied. Ayaat nodded before looking at her father excitedly,

'I think he is here!' Ayaat exclaimed throwing herself into her father's arms so that he could pick her up. Zoya laughed seeing both of them fuss before Asad finally picked her up. Asad opened the door and stared at Rashid pulling his suitcase into the house looking down towards the floor. His eyes lifted upwards and landed on Ayaat's face, his face lightened up instantly despite the rough journey; Zoya, so young, so alive. He had been yearning to see her for the past 18 years, not a single day has gone without thinking about her, worrying for her, missing her. A smile adorned his face finding another Zoya, his Zoya, stepping out of the room from behind Asad. Zoya smiled back at him before rushing to hug him, she closed her eyes and pressed out her tears.

'Abbu' Zoya cried, 'Where did you go leaving all of us?' She pulled apart and looked at him,

'You're asking me? You left us' Rashid kissed her forehead; he looked at Ayaat,
'That's my beautiful grandchild?' Tears escaped his eyes, 'The Lord has blessed us abundantly, He gave us another you' Ayaat asked her father to put her down forcefully as he was not willing to let go,

'Ayaat, you can't walk properly' Asad held her shoulders as her steps faltered,

'I'll be fine' Ayaat turned around towards her grandfather, she moved a few steps only to lose her balance and fall backwards, she found support in Asad's arms.

'What did I say?' Asad shook his head picking her back up,

'Daadu!' Ayaat called out to Rashid with her rarest smile, Rashid's heart warmed up at her call. He walked towards her and caressed her face,

'You're absolutely like my Zoya' Rashid half laughed and half cried, looking at everyone in the room shaking their heads in agreement.

'Ayaat, Abbu.' Zoya smiled from behind Rashid. He didn't know much about what happened here, he received a call from Asad and Zoya a week ago about his grandchild who needed his help. He came here as soon as he could.

'Ayaat, kaise ho?'

'Teek hoon!' Ayaat beamed at him, Rashid looked up into Asad's eyes; there were a lot of unshed tears in his eyes. He understood that their relationship was still at that stage of bitterness, but this relation with Ayaat, would not resolve their past issues but it has brought them to some understanding. Asad may not want any relation with his father, but he wouldn't allow his daughter to feel the void of any relationships in her life.
'Aur aap? Where were you all these days?' Ayaat asked innocently. Rashid looked at Asad, Ayaat followed his gaze and creased her forehead in confusion realising there was something wrong between them.

'Let your daadu rest beta.' Zoya spoke from behind. Rashid nodded before being led into the guestroom by Sofia.

-

'Mama?' Ahsaan entered Tanveer's room to find her sitting in the dark,

'What?' She said without looking up.

'Is there anything you're not telling me about Asad Ahmed Khan?' He asked her hesitantly remembering Zain's words. 'Mama, you understand the pain of losing a child, why would you want Asad Ahmed Khan to lose his? That is not revenge mama. I know you have suffered a lot, and we wanted him to feel pain. He would when we bring him onto the streets, why should we make Ayaat suffer? She hasn't done anything, her Abbu-' Ahsaan stopped hearing her laughing, in a mocking tone.

'Don't tell me you're starting feel sorry for him now?'

'No Mama. I do not sympathise with him.' Ahsaan's heartbeats rose, he was anxious about something but he didn't know what. He wanted to help Ayaat desperately. I just want to-'

'You don't have to explain yourself Ahsaan. I understand, you do not understand your mother's pain' Tanveer faked a cry. Ahsaan sat on his knees instantly holding her hand in his,

'Mama no. I just wanted to' Ahsaan spoke in fear; he didn't want to lose his mother. 'Mama, you know I would do anything for you.' He closed his eyes as Tanveer's hand brushed over his hair.

'Just a few more days. We'll leave him stranded... We'll take control over everything. You can go to university; I don't want you to be involved in all this after tomorrow' Tanveer smiled wickedly, 'Think about your future now. These people; let them suffer. They deserve it' She sighed in content. Ahsaan slowly got up and walked towards his room shutting it close behind him.

Because if you do not allow your conscience to make the right decisions today, forget Ayaat, forget anyone, you will not be able to forgive yourself tomorrow.

Asim is family whether anyone accepts it or not. I trust him with my life

Bhaijaan...

...making someone unhappy to make someone else happy is wrong

Asim, the day you fall in love you will understand the importance of trust.

You don't understand your mother's pain

She likes to play twisted games with the lives of innocent children

I need your help. Please save my daughter, please. I will do anything you ask me to.

Please Asim, save my daughter! I cannot live without her, I will give you anything you ask for in return just do this one favour?

That moment, every nerve in my body was saying something, it wanted to protect her. I wanted to shield her from whatever it was that was hurting her

Ahsaan held his hand against his ears squirming in his room, moving back and forth to stop himself from hearing their voices. Each word pierced through his heart. Ahsaan's hand went forward and caressed the air seeing her face lying lifeless against the hospital bed amongst the wires. He held his head remembering the baby on the TV screen from that night he found Ayaat crying on the floor. He grunted in pain, feeling a headache taking over every nerve in his head. He punched sideways; swinging his arm back, the punching bag went flying. For a moment, all you could hear was his harsh breathing and the punching bag moving back and forth pulling the chain it hung on. He swiftly turned on his feet and threw numerous punches onto the punching bag doing more damage to his hands than the bag. The incident in the hospital flashed before his eyes making his punches more vigorous than before, low groans left his mouth as his hand went red, before starting to bleed. He carried on punching not feeling any pain, his heart, mind and soul was overridden with guilt, it flashed from anger to guilt and back and forth burning him like fire. A roar left his mouth as he threw the last punch ripping the bag open making fluff disperse into the air. He fell on his knees instantly bursting into a cry shaking his head side to side.

-

'Ammi, my body hurts' Ayaat's body shook all of a sudden, Zoya threw whatever it was on her lap and rushed towards her bed,

'Ayaat beta, look at me. Where does it hurt? ASAD!' Zoya shouted in tears, Asad rushed inside the room almost tripping on his own feet,

'What happened?' He asked horrified finding Ayaat's body stretching out as she whimpered with pain. He jumped onto her bed and picked her up into his arms rubbing her back while Zoya rubbed her hands in panic.

'Zain' Ayaat whispered with closed eyes, Asad and Zoya looked at her with teary eyes.

'Nikita?' Zoya spoke into her phone, 'I don't know what's wrong with her, no, she's never had anything like this before. Trust me she hasn't. What do I do?' Zoya cried into the phone. She jumped off the bed, 'No, no which' She opened the boxes of medicine; in her rush she dropped everything all over the floor. She fell to her knees and crawled all over to find the blue packet, 'Mmm- the blue and green packet?' She gave up pronouncing the name, 'Just one? Okay okay, thank you' Zoya threw the phone on the bed before grabbing a glass of water and making Ayaat take the tablet.

'It hurts so much' Ayaat's body crumpled up into Asad's arm as he held her tightly against his chest waiting for the tablet to come into effect and relieve him from this pain. After a few moments that felt like hours, Ayaat's body stopped shaking, her body relaxed and her forehead un-creased. Zoya placed her forehead on the pillow breathing out a sigh, her heart was still racing. Ayaat slowly opened her eyes and smiled faintly at her father staring at her with teary eyes,

'Abbu' She whispered feeling Asad's fingers stroking her forehead, wiping off sweat. He rested his forehead against hers, his lips quivering. Zoya slowly lifted her head and looked towards the door to find a heartbroken Rashid with Dilshad by his side; both staring at Ayaat and Asad. Rashid nodded at Zoya and walked out of the room, he looked at Dilshad,

'Who is Zain?' He asked her, his ears were fully alert throughout; he noted everything down in his mind. Everyone had ignored the name coming out of her mouth but he didn't fail to notice the look on Asad and Zoya's face for that split second.

'Tanveer's son' Dilshad watched his eyes widen with horror, 'No Rashid listen to me, he has been living with me for the past 18 years...' She went on to explain everything. Rashid fell back against the sofa,

'So much has happened. Asad?' He looked up at her with his hands over his mouth; she shook her head side to side.
'I know this isn't the right time for this, lekin, Asad will understand one day. He will understand. Where there is hatred, there is love. Zain is an innocent child, if Zoya can accept him with open arms when she was the one wronged. Asad has to move forward with her. I have faith in your upbringing, he might be her blood, but it is your parvarish that runs through his veins. He is good at heart and I know he will win Asad over, if not for himself, for Ayaat's sake.' He whispered. Dilshad nodded in agreement before sitting on the other sofa.

Sofia stared at her grandmother and grandfather as they sat there in deep thought both leaning against their fisted hands. She looked at her phone before holding it against her ears,

''Hello, Zain bhaijaan?' She walked away updating her brother on everything that was happening.

Asad placed her body back on the bed covering her bare legs with the duvet, she wore shorts as there were wires still connected to her legs. He moved off the bed brushing his hair back walking towards the window and leaning against it. Zoya opened his crossed arms before placing one arm around her waist as she tried finding comfort in his hold.

''This was not the first time' Zoya spoke softly as tears flowed from her eyes without consent.

''I know' Asad replied staring out of the window.

-

''Ammi, I'll be fine. Don't worry, you go. Daadi is there na, Ayaan chachu will be coming soon. I'm just going to lie back and finish that book' Ayaat told her mother removing her hands and buttoning her top. ''Could you pass me that shawl, the weather looks horrible. It's going to rain again' Zoya nodded bringing a beige coloured shawl and placed it over her legs.

''I'll be back soon' Zoya kissed her forehead. Ayaat nodded,

''Ammi?' Ayaat tugged at her hand as she was about to go,

''Tell Nikita aunty I said Hi' she smiled.

''Huh?' Zoya blinked at her,

''Don't think I'm not aware of what's happening around me. I know why daadu is here and where you're going. I'll be fine; noone can help me if I don't get strong again. Please smile, don't look so worried' Ayaat shook her head. Zoya nodded at her before leaving the room not knowing what she should say. Ayaat's eyes fell on Ali through the half open door, she wrapped the shawl around her bottom to cover her legs, his eyes refused to move off her. Ayaat tore her gaze away angrily, she got off the bed, her legs waivered as she put pressure onto her foot, she held the bed for support putting her hand up to stop him from coming anywhere near her room. She forced herself to walk towards the door holding the walls for support before closing the door watching him put his head down, hurt. She locked the door instantly before leaning against it feeling faint. She looked at her bed and then her window as the clouds broke and it started pouring down heavily. She winced moving back towards the bed holding onto anything she could find before falling against the side of her bed tiredly. Her heart raced as she looked towards the window, she forced herself up again holding onto the side table and moving along it before reaching for the window ledge. She managed to lean against it before her heart burst with all sorts of feelings seeing the sight before her. She blinked watching Zain spin under the rain with his arms out allowing the rain to soak him from head to toe. There was a smile on his face as he closed his eyes; it did something to Ayaat's heart as she too smiled along with him.

''Zain' She whispered, he opened his eyes as if he heard her call. He wiped his face with the rain still crashing against his body, he took slow steps towards her. Ayaat was about to pull the window upwards but his hand stopped it from moving. She looked up at him confused; he placed his hand on the window caressing her face through the glass. She blushed looking the other way, his fingers clawed the window. She looked back at him with her fingers going over the glass to touch his face. Her breath clouded the windows, she brought her face towards the glass and placed a kiss leaving its mark against the window and moved back without removing her eyes off him. He came forward and kissed the other side, her eyes lowered. He placed his forehead against the window; Ayaat did the same before slowly opening the window.

''Dono ke liye beeg rahe ho kya?' Ayaat whispered, he nodded back at her. She reached for his face and pulled him closer towards her cheek. Due to the pressure to her feet, Ayaat almost fell forward and her hands slipped on his wet shoulders. She tried grabbing his wet shirt finding her body go back, Zain grabbed her arms. He held onto her before coming inside through the window and looking at her.

''Pagal ladki' Zain shook his head as Ayaat looked down not meeting his eyes, she couldn't hide her pain from him. He lifted her up into his wet arms; Ayaat shivered feeling the water against her skin. He placed her on the bed,

''How are you?' He whispered,

''You need to get changed, there's towels in there and...' Ayaat paused biting her lips,

''And?' He raised his eyebrow stroking his finger on top of her hand,

''Your clothes in that bottom drawer' She spoke quietly, almost whispering.

''What are my clothes doing in your drawer?' He met her tone of voice. She looked at him innocently making him laugh,

''Woh, ermm' He nodded listening to her explanation, ''I asked Sofia to bring some of your.spare.clothes' Ayaat looked away seeing his teasing expressions.

''You chor. No wonder I can't find most of my clothes' Zain teased holding her hands, she tried to them turning into a darker shade of pink; she was embarrassed beyond words. Zain brushed his wet hair; Ayaat put her hand over her face to stop the water from sprinkling onto her face. She watched him get up and walk towards her cupboard,

''No leave that white shirt' She shouted almost falling off the bed, he looked at her with a raised eyebrow. ''I mean ahem' She coughed, ''Just leave it. Take the other one. Zain no' Ayaat pouted seeing him take out whatever was in there into the bathroom.

He walked out of the bathroom to find her resting her chin against her arms frowning. He shook his head at her cuteness before walking up to her. Her eyes followed his hands as he placed the white shirt beside her. She was taken aback watching him walk towards the door and pick up the scarf that had fallen on the floor.
He looked back at her to find her hands brushing over her thighs feeling slightly uncomfortable realising she wasn't covered. He brought it to her, but before she could take it he half lifted her body and wrapped the scarf around her waist. He kneeled on the floor in front of her, he gazed up at her as she watched him take her foot and place it on his thigh. He massaged her foot before putting socks on each foot. She couldn't help but admire the guy in front of her that cared for her selflessly. She watched him get up before pulling her up making her step onto his feet before placing the white shirt over her. Her eyes went over the shirt before looking up at him with teary eyes.

She took both of his hands and wrapped it around her waist before placing her head against his chest. He cradled her for a moment before placing her back onto the bed. He lay beside her as she took his hand and placed it under her cheek, her eyes refusing to move off his face. His fingers trailed on her cheeks, she brought her hand over his neck pulling his face closer to hers.

''I feel so peaceful when you are around me but my heart races like it would jump out of me. What kind of feeling is that?' Ayaat whispered. Zain smiled,

''I don't know but my heart dances in a frenzy every time you're in my sight. I guess both of our hearts are fighting to keep up with each other.' He whispered back to her taking her hand and placing it against his chest.

''You said you will come through the door the day you have permission to. When will you?' Her voice went quieter and quieter.

''I quite enjoy coming through the window sneakily. I don't know Ayaat. Let everything settle first.' Zain pressed his eyes to reassure her. He wasn't sure of his future right now; he did want to spend the rest of his life with her, like this, in each other's arms. He didn't know what Asad's decision would be but right now that wasn't his priority. He just wanted to get her well soon, make her healthy enough for the transplant when they find her a donor.

-

Asad and Zoya sat with their hands entwined against the chairs in Nikita's room. She was off duty but Dr Zhen agreed to do the tests on Rashid on Asad's insistence. They both stared at Dr Zhen sat on Nikita's seat while the nurses headed out to get the reports. Rashid had gone to the washroom leaving the anxious parents waiting for the results. They both looked towards the door to find Nikita stood there. Zoya got up and walked towards her.

''Why didn't you both tell me?' Nikita directed the question at Asad. ''And doctor Zhen, why didn't you tell them the truth, there was no point in raising hopes' Asad looked at her confused.

''What do you mean Dr Sengupta?'

''What I mean is that' She turned around and took the reports of the nurse; she walked inside and sat down.

''What she means is that even if your father is a match, he won't be of any help' Dr Zhen explained.

''What?' Zoya blinked.

''I'll leave Dr Sengupta to explain. I've tried but I couldn't' Asad looked down remembering how he paid no heed to Dr Zhen's words earlier. He just wanted his father tested.

''Asad?' Zoya looked at him, Asad shrugged his shoulders guiltily.

Rashid entered the room and looked at everyone in a distressed state.

''What happened?'

''Mr Khan, you've had all the over 60 injections while you were in America?' Nikita asked, Rashid nodded. ''Zoya, we do not advice anyone over the age of 60 to act as a donor for safety reasons. We cannot risk it in Ayaat's case.' Asad and Zoya nodded as she went on and explained everything. Zoya sat back down next to Asad again, feeling dejected at their attempts. Nikita got on her knees in front of them.

''Don't worry, we'll find a solution. Right now, just concentrate on getting her better, keep her happy, she'll be strong again and ready for her transplant. We have time...' She held Zoya's hand.

''My daughter's every breath takes her closer to her death and you're saying we have time?' Asad asked her, his voice full of pain. She stared at him,

''Mr Khan, please stay strong. We will save her. Ayaat is well, she is talking to us, she is laughing. In most cases, they become bed bounded at such stages. Her chemotherapy may not be working and neither are her radiation sessions, but they had to come to completion before we took any further steps. Ayaat is reacting positively to your smiles, to your love. Nothing will happen to her' Nikita smiled. Zoya nodded. Rashid walked out of the room brushing his hair back, he fell onto the nearest chair.

''Hasn't this family suffered enough Almighty?' He questioned. He looked to his side feeling someone's hand sink onto his left shoulder, he saw Zoya's hand over Asad's on his shoulder: a small smile appeared on his face.

-

Ayaat burst into a laughing fit watching Zain do a robot dance in the middle of the room before free styling. She placed the bowl of chocolate munchies besides her holding onto her stomach, she wiped her tears but before she could stop herself he made her laugh again.

''Zain, stop it. My stomach hurts' Ayaat managed in between breaths, she wiped her eyes and coughed to console herself.

''Ayaat beta, are you okaay?' Dilshad's voice came from outside. Ayaat's hand flapped trying to stop him from moving,

''Shhh' She placed both of her fingers over her lips, ''Haan daadi, was just watching something' Ayaat managed to choke out as she laughed silently finding him practice more moves. 'I.can't.take.this.any.more' Ayaat fell on her bed.

''Beta why have you locked the door?'

''Kapre daadi, I was changing my clothes' Ayaat shouted back warning Zain with her eyes.

''Are you sure you're okay?'

''Haan, daadi. Don't worry' Ayaat answered back. Zain walked towards her grinning. He put his hand out towards her; Ayaat reluctantly took his hand as he helped her stand on the bed. His eyes moved towards the floor directing her to take a step forward. She nodded at him slowly placing her foot down; she half closed her eye biting her lips.

''Why do you care so much?' Ayaat asked him taking slow shaky steps towards him.

''I don't know, I don't want to but...'

''What?!' She looked at him shocked,

''You make me laugh Ayaat and you ask the most stupidest questions' Zain laughed, Ayaat pouted trying to remove her wrist from his hold.

''Oh ho, itna gussa?' He teased, Ayaat hit him, she moved her feet towards him throwing herself at him making him fall back as she fell on top of him.

''What happened?' She raised her eyebrow,

''You're weird you know that and you're a little crazy' He stared at her.

''Didn't you already know?' She blinked at him, 'I need a favour'

'What?' He brought his ears to her seeing her 'it's a secret' expression. She whispered something into his ears and looked at him expectantly. He just stared at her as her cheek brushed his face, he was lost taking in her scent and allowing his insides to turn and tumble. He could feel her warm breath on his neck making every hair on his body stand upright; why does this girl electrocute me every time she is close to me?

'Zain?' Ayaat clicked her fingers getting up halfway,

'Huh?'

'Did you not hear anything I said?' She frowned,

'No I did. No problem.' He got up and brushed his hair.

'What happened to you?' She blinked at his goofy expressions,

'Nothing nothing, erm I better get off' He told her, Ayaat held his hand.

'So soon?'

'Do you want me to get beaten again?' Zain asked her, she nodded in a yes before shaking her head in a no. He got up before pulling her up and helping her sit back against the bed.
'I'll unlock the door' She nodded at him. Zain unlocked the door and almost tripped hearing Asad's voice.

'Ayaat beta, why have you locked the door?' Asad questioned once Dilshad told him. Ayaat choked hearing him coming towards the door, her head shot towards the locked window.

'Zain Zain... Udhar, sambhalke' Ayaat moved towards the edge off the bed almost falling off pointing towards the bathroom realising he wouldn't make it out of the window in time. She coughed watching Asad open the door and stare at her as she lay half off the bed with only her legs twisted around the duvet supporting her up. He rushed inside and helped her up.

'What happened?' Asad removed chocolate bits from her arm

'What happened?' She repeated coughing out her words.

'Baby, I'm asking you. Kya hua? What is daadi saying?' He wiped her forehead.

'Kuch nahin' She shook her head side to side. 'What happened?' Ayaat asked again. Zain hit his head against a wall; this girl does not cope well under pressure. Asad laughed,

'Nothing happened.' Ayaan entered Ayaat's room with Rashid behind him. She smiled at them; her eyes went over the bathroom door again and again. Rashid sat down next to Ayaat,

'Let me sit down next to my granddaughter for a while' Rashid sighed placing his hand over Ayaat's shoulder. Asad and Ayaan watched as they both got into a deep conversation.

'Coffee' Zoya smiled widely walking in with a tray full of cups, Dilshad followed behind her into the room with Sofia bringing chairs inside.

'Kya hua, aaj mere room mein koi party hai kya?' Ayaat joked laughing, but she was mentally crying at her situation. Her eyes moved towards the bathroom again, Zain peeped shaking his head.

'Yup, something like that' Zuhair popped his head inside carrying a bag full of junk and throwing it at her.

'OMG, I love you!' Ayaat's eyes widened seeing the chocolates. Zain rolled his eyes; how much can this girl eat? Ayaat became engrossed in eating the chocolates while everyone had a look of admiration on their faces. Ayaat's eyes fell on Ali; she started coughing on the chocolate. Rashid rubbed her back helping her to drink some water. Zain followed her gaze towards Ali who stood leaning against the door; she hasn't gotten over the incident. Ayaat moved her focus towards Ayaan who reminisced some old memories with Zoya,

'Mona, Rabart, Charlie... What's with the nicknames Chachu?' Ayaat asked him,

'It's my very own language... detective code names. When they become my partner in crime and it's for the people I love dearly. Like for you example, you're my sweetheart!' He pinched her nose.

'Does Abbu have one?' Ayaat looked at her father,

'Your Abbu is emotionally challenged!' Zoya remarked. Everyone burst out laughing hearing him grumble. Zain watched from afar as they all got into a deep conversation leaving him standing there, helpless and scared just in case someone needed to use the bathroom.

'Ayaat beta, someone left this' Humeira entered the room with a box in her hand. Zain hit his head against the wall again and then rubbed the same spot; these people will ruin all his efforts.

'What is it Chachi?' Ayaat took the box off her and stared at it for a while. Everyone broke out of their conversations and watched her open it slowly before gasping.

'Kya hua?' Zoya sat down next to Ayaat as Rashid budged away from her. Ayaat's eyes refused to move from the box, she admired the amazing work on the bridal duppata in front of her. Tears formed in her eyes while her fingers stroked the little stones on it. She looked at her mother whose eyes had the same appreciation for the beauty of the scarf.

'Ammi, remember I told you we were working on a bridal collection? I made a sketch of something, it was just a drabble... I mean, this wasn't part of the collection. I don't know how... but someone must have got this made. This is beyond beautiful than those sketches, I mean it's impossible to make anything this perfect' Ayaat's eyes glistened as the red sparkled back in her eyes. Zoya picked up the heavy bridal duppata and held it in front of her; it really was beautiful and this was something she would've wanted her daughter to wear on her wedding day. She looked at her daughter with moist eyes; her eyes went over the wrap on her head and sighed. She turned the duppata over before placing it on a hesitant Ayaat. Ayaat bit her lips nervously watching everyone's eyes move towards her. Zoya placed a soft kiss on her forehead.

'How do I look?' Ayaat whispered to her mother,

'Absolutely beautiful!' Ayaan replied staring at Asad who had unshed tears in his eyes. He watched him move his eyes off his daughter and look around the room trying to keep his emotions under control. Seeing his daughter in the form of a bride was the last straw, he couldn't take it any longer. He got up and walked out of the room excusing himself, Zoya stared at his back.

'Chachu, aap bhi na' Ayaat blushed holding her hands over her face trying to hide from everyone. Zain sighed admiring her from the bathroom, she looked absolutely stunning just with the duppatta over her head, he couldn't imagine how beautiful she would look if she was in the full attire. His Ayaat was glowing with the bridal duppatta over her head, his Ayaat, his future bride. He made the right decision giving the sketches to Naeem and getting it made for her. His eyes moved towards Ali who's gaze was still locked on Ayaat, he didn't know why but there was something in his eyes that made him feel uncomfortable. Ayaat stared at Zain, mentally shouting at him to look at her, once she caught his eyes, she played her eyebrows at him; how do I look? Zuhair followed her eyes towards Zain who about to reply to Ayaat's question froze with his mouth open finding Zuhair catch him out. Zain popped his head back inside closing the door, everyone's eyes moved towards the bathroom hearing the door close. Ayaat felt faint seeing everyone turn; she rocked back and forth in panic. Zuhair ran towards the bathroom before anyone else could and locked the door behind him.

'What the hell are you doing here?' Zuhair whisper yelled at Zain, Zain put his hand over his mouth to shut him up before placing his finger against his lips.

'You'll get me killed! Shhh' Zain whispered back, I came to see Ayaat, bhaijaan. She was unwell yesterday so thought I'd check up on her' He explained, a smirk played on Zuhair's lips.

'Like this ehh? Proper Romeo, before your THE END becomes like Romeo, you need to get out of here before anyone sees you.' Zuhair warned him, 'How the hell did you get in here?'

'Woh, the window' Zain replied meekly rubbing the back of his neck.

'Impressive' Zuhair praised him before grabbing him by the neck, Zain laughed loudly before holding his mouth with wide eyes.

'What are you doing in there Zuhair?' Dilshad asked, 'What is wrong with you kids these days?' She shook her head.

'Nothing daadi. I just remembered a joke' Zuhair replied.

'VAH! Like father like son!' Rashid brushed Ayaan's hair.

'Mujhe na, neend aa rahi hai' Ayaat yawned suddenly. Zuhair and Zain looked at each other knowingly hi-fiving each other; smart girl.

'Teek hain, get some sleep!' Zoya caressed her cheeks; Ayaat pulled her closer to her and whispered something in her ears. Zoya nodded before gathering everyone and walking out of the room. Ali glanced back one last time but Ayaat gawked at the box in front of her to avoid looking at him. He sighed and closed the door behind him.

Zuhair opened the bathroom door slowly and peaked outside to find everyone gone. He came out with Zain following behind him, Ayaat sighed breath of relief.

'You two... behave!' Zuhair showed his hands before closing the door behind him leaving a flushed Ayaat behind. Zain ran forward and locked the door leaning against it.

'This is so hard!' He exhaled sharply before looking up at her. Ayaat held the top of the scarf to remove it when he shook his head in a no. He took slow steps towards her before sitting against his knees in front of her,
'These eyes were given just to have the pleasure of admiring your beauty' He whispered pulling the scarf over her head properly. Ayaat lowered her gaze; he placed the tip of his fingers under her chin and tilted her face upwards to look at him. He smiled watching her close her eyes before smiling; he placed a kiss on her dimples. He got off the bed; Ayaat opened her eyes to look at him. She nodded reading his eyes.

'Zain?' Ayaat whispered, Zain froze with the window open. He closed his eyes feeling her arms wrap around him leaning her head against his back. His hands went over hers,
'I love you' She whispered into his ears, 'so much that I don't know anything else apart from loving you. I was given this heart only to beat for you, I was given these breaths to live for you' She kissed his shoulder.

'These nights were given to increase our restlessness' Zain tilted his face sideways,

'Phones were given to remove that restlessness' Ayaat smiled moving away, he pulled her hand slowly turning around,

'I don't know why but my heart doesn't want to leave you today' Zain pulled her back and whispered into her neck. Ayaat held her hand against her chest feeling her breathing go short and uneven.
'Our love might still be new Ayaat, we might be young but our love is beyond any age. I wish, I could've taken you away with me, as my bride. Our future is still a dream, your lifelong saath just a wish.' He turned her around, 'Do you not feel the same way Ayaat?' She nodded at him slowly looking up to meet his eyes over pouring with passion and yearning.

'Every moment in these arms feels like I've lived a lifetime yet I want to live forever.' She brushed her hands over his arms, 'I've heard that during this age, it is called immature love but what kind of love is ours Zain? My heart has decided to live and die in your arms, it has promised to love you surpassing any limits, I'm scared Zain' He held her face in his hands, 'I'm scared if anything happens, I'm scared that my love's passion will turn into obsession...'

'Mujhe koi darr nahin' He told her, 'I'm not scared of being caged by your obsession, I will consider myself lucky to be loved by someone like you to such an extent. Nothing will happen Ayaat, my love will not allow anything to happen. I had been breathing for the past 18 years but I came to life when you claimed it as yours. I've tried going away from you, but I couldn't. Something always pulls me back, it's your love, it's your claim over me that requires your permission for every breath I take.' Ayaat placed her head on his chest. 'People fall in love Ayaat, but I haven't fallen in love. I've been captured by your love Ayaat and I don't want to be released.' He closed his eyes, Ayaat kissed his chest.
'Come what may now, we will fight this together.'

-

''Let me know if you need any help saving her'

Asad held onto the window ledge before falling on his knees breaking into a silent cry, his body shook as all the emotions poured out of him. He had been holding it together for the past 3 weeks but not anymore, not anymore he sobbed breathlessly. He leaned against the wall tears overflowing his eyes holding his arms against his chest to tighten the pain, he whimpered feeling the pain spread all over his body. He hit his head against the wall again and again, after all these years, he had found his daughter, the happiness that was taken away from him was returned in the form of Ayaat. But his happiness was short lived as life itself threatened to take away his only source for breathing.
He gathered his knees wiping away his tears with the back of his hands. Seeing Ayaat dressed as a bride made him realise that if he didn't do something quickly he might not be able to see for her that day.
For a father, the most heart breaking moment yet the closest moment to his heart is the day he sees his daughter dressed in her bridal attire, where pride runs through every vein in his body for the woman she has become. Every father goes through anger, jealousy and overprotectiveness for their daughters, where his mind makes every attempt to chase away the groom yet his heart sends out prayers for their happily ever after because whether they accept it or deny it, she had found her prince charming, the only person who can return the same amount of love as him. Today, Asad went through the similar emotions along with one other emotion that pricked at his heart; fear of losing her. The doctor had reassured him that they still have time, but he didn't miss those eyes; they were hiding a lot. For him, every breath that she took was a step closer to him losing her; he wasn't going to wait till the right end to save her. He didn't want to watch his daughter weaken in front of him, she was strong, he wanted to make her stronger.

'Asad?' Zoya cupped his face wiping away his tears. She shook her head at him, Asad's lips quivered before lying down onto her lap.

'Their love is pure Zoya. I know that and I cannot deny that.' Asad cried, Zoya brushed his hair. He tried to stop himself from shaking so much, 'She wants to negotiate the price for my daughter's life, yet she doesn't understand that my daughter is too precious for any of her bargaining schemes. I'm ready to give her everything I have, everything, be it my life so that my daughter can live. I don't know whether destiny is cruel or merciful, only Ayaat's twin brother can save her. They have been apart for so long yet they remain one. I don't know what we have in our destiny in the name of justice, if I get my daughter back, that will be my biggest victory against life itself. I know my Lord is the Most Merciful; He will give us our share of happiness. I have faith' He whispered closing his eyes.

-

Asad walked towards the door hearing the bell, the house was unusually quiet this morning he wondered to himself. He looked back thinking he should check up on Ayaat,

'Yes?' Asad stared at the young man in front of him in a blue shirt, his eyes went over the bold writing on his shirt; Mausam Boutiques.

'Asad Ahmed Khan?' The young man smiled at Asad.

'Yes, that's me. Can I help you?'

'I have a delivery for you sir, could you just sign this?' He passed Asad an electronic device to print his signatures on.
'Here you go sir.' He passed Asad two bouquets; one had a mixture of carnations and the other had a mixture of pink and apricot peonies with miniature roses. He held both of them in his hands staring at the man questioningly 'Have a nice day sir!' He smiled and walked away. Rashid came behind Asad taking one of the bouquets off him,

'Who are they from?' Rashid asked pointing towards the envelope. Asad walked towards the sofa and sat down before taking the envelope and opening it. A smile adorned his face reading out the lines.

'There's no-one like you, no-one can ever become you. For the person who has showered my life with happiness, the person that I share my heartbeats with, the person that catches me when I fall, the person I thank the Almighty every day for. Thank you for being my everything, thank you for guiding me, thank you for picking me up when I fall, thank you for calling me your own.
You know all these years, I have never been able to hug you tight and call you 'Abbu'... I've always wondered what you would look like, if you'll love me... I've always dreamt of you but I could never touch you, I could never hug you, I could never picture you. After meeting you, I feel like no-one in this world could be my Abbu except you. Thank you for loving me, thank you for being my strength.
Today isn't as special as every other day or less special than any other days, celebrating today doesn't mean that all the other days of the year are not worth celebrating. This is for the person that has stolen my heart from the day I was born, whether I am close to you or away from you, you are that special person that can hear your daughter's heartbeat amongst any crowd. This is for the person that would forever remain my first love...
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO THE BEST ABBU IN THE WORLD!

I love you to the furthest galaxy and back. I love you so much.

P.S. I love it when you pick me up into your arms and cradle me like a baby.' Asad looked up at Rashid with teary eyes. He held the card against his chest trying to control himself. His fingers went over the flowers; he laughed shaking his head whilst tears flowed from his eyes. He got up onto his feet and ran towards her room pushing her door open to find it empty. The sudden rush of emotions turned to panic not being able to locate her in her room. He turned around in haste and froze finding her coming through the door with Zoya. He was about rush towards her when he realised she was walking on her own, hesitantly, but she was still walking.

'Abbu!' Ayaat exclaimed with a wide smile on her face, he took slow steps towards her as she walked towards him shaking her pony tail along the way. Asad's heart burst with fatherly emotions, the warmth he received from the sight of his beautiful daughter was unexplainable. He embraced his daughter with open arms, holding her tightly against him; he was cherishing this moment with her. This girl, his little girl, he was so thankful for, she made him discover these unknown feelings he never knew existed. This girl, his little girl, lightens up his world like never before. He looked at Zoya with thankful eyes, thanking her for bringing this blessing into this world, into his life. He picked her up into his arms and cradled her like a baby making Ayaat burst into a fit of giggles; so he read the card she thought to herself. She hid her face in his chest,

'Did I mention how I find solace in your arms?' Ayaat whispered. Asad kissed her forehead, her cheeks and every other part of her face before clutching her against him tightly. Zoya sighed placing her hand on Rashid's shoulders.

'Have you read your card?' Zoya asked Rashid wiping away her tears.

Asad walked towards the sofa and sat down with Ayaat still in his arms. Zoya sat down next to him brushing his arm.

'For the best daadu in the world. For being my Abbu's Abbu. Because of you I have him...' Rashid held his tears in reading the rest of it in his head because he wasn't any of the things Ayaat claimed he was.
'Happy Father's day to my favourite Daadu, and my Abbu's Abbu' Rashid laughed reading the last line. He got up and placed a kiss on Ayaat's forehead, blessing her and sending out a prayer to the Almighty for her happiness. He met Asad's calm eyes noticing softness that he had never seen for himself before. He looked at Ayaat with gratitude knowing that even if it was a glance of something other than hatred, it was because of her.

'Okay, gift time. Abbu I got you gifts which you'll get later, but I want one' Ayaat started,

'What kind of blackmail is this?' Asad sulked,

'Robbing your bank type' Dilshad winked at Ayaat coming towards them with a sweet dish. She gave the first plate to Ayaat who started eating it forgetting that Asad was waiting for her wish list.

'Ahem?' Asad coughed,

'Oh sorry. I forget my priorities when I see food' Ayaat shrugged her shoulders innocently, Asad and Zoya looked at each other before laughing. 'Okay Okay, I want you to take Ammi out on a date. You both never spend any time together, please Abbu' She fluttered her innocent eyelashes; her tactical skills were on point today.

'Since I am an Abbu, I thought I get to spend my day with my little babygirl!' Asad cooed kissing her forehead.

'I know I know, but that will be your gift from me to you. Spend some time with your wife' She whispered with a wink, 'because lately, I've been occupying all her time. I see the jealousy' Ayaat teased, Zoya put her hand up to hit her but Asad swung her away.

'Okay, we'll go in the afternoon for some lunch. I'll call Ayaan and Najma over in the evening. Everyone will sit down and spend some time together. All the fathers' Asad smiled widely; he was so excited. Zoya sighed watching him play with his nose against hers; she always wanted to see Ayaat smile. She sent out a prayer to the Almighty for her son, Ahsaan, for his return. She closed her eye momentarily,

'Please Almighty, complete my family. Bring him back to me. You test those you love, and I know that he is being tested. Please help him and guide him so that he emerges as a winner. Please bring my son onto the right path Almighty. Please bring him back to me; please bring him back to his sister. Please do something; I know he must be yearning for his father's love, for his family's love. I have always heard that the weight of the truth is heavier than any lie, any facade. Please let the truth win. Give us our justice' Zoya prayed from her heart. 'Happy Father's day Asad, from your son Ahsaan.' Zoya sighed and opened her eyes. Asad smiled meeting her eyes, he nodded in assurance.

'Did you have an appointment with Nikita.' Asad asked her. She nodded back at him,

'Last minute call. They are complete' She told him. Asad nodded looking at his daughter again who was reaching for the cakes almost falling off his lap. He tapped her hand making her pout bringing her hand to her chest,

'Nautanki' Asad picked up a slice of cake and brought it to her reluctant lips.

'Only cus you're forcing me okay?' Ayaat nodded opening her mouth and taking a bite of the cake making delightful noises. Asad looked at the clock on the wall with determination; it was time, he was ready to do anything for her sake.

'Asad, Asad...' Zoya called out to him but he rushed out of the room towards Ayaat's,

'What should I wear?' Asad asked Ayaat holding 4 different ties in front of her,

'None of them, they're for fat people.' She looked up from her sketches at his dumbfounded face. 'Thin, no actually no tie... not your black suit either. It's not a proper evening thing sooo... ermm, casuals. Jeans, white shirt or white jumper thingyyy' She moved her hand in motions to remind him which one. 'Umhhh, tell Ammi to either wear that casual white dress we bought for her or maybe a simple white chiffon saree. She looks amazing in sarees' She grinned, Asad mirrored her expressions with an eager nod. 'But Abbu, it's only a lunch' She raised her eyebrow, he shook his head in a no closing his eyes; you'll never understand. She gave him a look that said I don't even want to.
'You're welcome!' She smiled. Asad ran forward and kissed her forehead before rushing back out.
'He is going out in a couple of hours but preparing all his clothes now? Very excited for his date I see, good going Ayaat Asad Ahmed Khan' She picked her nose up in the air before laughing out loud. She looked at her phone that was ringing; Sofia.

'Hey? What's up?' Ayaat held the phone against her ears walking up to the mirror. She pulled the skin from under her eye to stretch it out to have a good look at it as it had gone darker.

'Bhaji, I haven't gotten Abbu a present. I wanted to go shopping, can you join me? No, wait. How are you feeling, are you better? I'm so stupid; I didn't know what else to do, sort of panicked. Sorry sorry!' Sofia apologised.

'Heyhey, take a deep breath. Of course I'll come with you. I'll just talk to Ammi, I'll see you inabit?' Ayaat dabbed a bit of concealer under her eye to hide the dark skin which looked like dark circles around her eyes.

'Really, but...'

'No buts. The frame I ordered for Abbu hasn't come yet, I might as well go in and pick it up. Don't worry, stop stressing. I'll see you soon. Bye!' Ayaat threw the phone on her bed. She stared into the mirror; her hands went over the head wrap.

'Ayaat?' Zoya walked into her room and found her applying concealer under her eyes. She smiled sadly as she placed her hand over her headscarf before sighing.
'Where are you going?' Ayaat turned around hearing her mother's voice.

'Shopping. Sofia called.' Ayaat looked at her mother knowing she was going to refuse.

'Ayaat, baby. You're unwell; I don't want you going anywhere alone.' She cupped her face,

'Ammi, I won't be alone. Sofia will be there. Please?' Ayaat frowned,

'Please what?' Asad entered the room.

'Look Asad, she wants to go shopping with Sofia. She's not well...' Zoya told him. Asad grabbed his wallet and took out his bank card,

'Shop well' He winked at her passing her the card. Ayaat's mouth opened wide, her eyes sparkled grabbing the card and hugging him tight.

'I love you!' Ayaat squealed.

'Come on, I'll drop you off. Kaka has gone out for some chores, once he gets back I'll send him to you both. Come on' He tapped her cheek nodding towards the door. Zoya shook her head while Ayaat grabbed her phone and purse before running back to her father holding his hand.

'Almighty. Give us strength. We really need it today' Zoya closed her eyes holding her hand against her chest. She looked around the bedroom for a moment before walking out behind them both.

-

'You take care of yourself beta. I'll see you later' Asad cupped her smiling face who nodded back at him; he took her in for a hug. He kissed the top of her head thanking the Almighty for making him a father; he looked at her face with emotions he himself couldn't explain. He kissed her forehead; Ayaat kissed the palm of his hand.

'Ammi, I'll see you later.' Ayaat walked around the car and placed a kiss on her forehead through the open window.

'Bye beta.' Zoya waved watching her walk towards the busy crowd. Asad closed his eyes entering the car and resting his head against the headrest. He drove off to a more calmer area and turned his engines off. He looked at Zoya dialling a couple of numbers on his phone before placing it on loud speaker.

'Hello...' Tanveer's voice filled the eerie silence, Zoya fingers clawed her seat.
Asad Ahmed Khan, what a surprise?' She sounded bored.

'Tanveer, I, er we need to meet you!' Asad choked out closing his eyes.

'We?' She replied instantly,

'We are ready to give you whatever you want!' Asad held Zoya's hand.

'Ahhh, what took you so long?' Tanveer smirked, 'but you know what Asad, I'm not in the mood to make any demands today. Come to me when I'm in a better mood...'

'What-' Asad shivered, Zoya pressed his hand shaking her head to stop him from losing his temper.
'Tanveer don't do this...'

'Do what?' She asked innocently,

'What do you want Tanveer?' Asad asked her,

'I want you to come and beg at my feet for your daughter's life. Maybe then I'll consider saving her and...' Tanveer played with them,

'And?' Zoya snapped,

'Ahh Mrs Khan, you're there too!' Tanveer laughed mockingly. 'And... we'll negotiate from there. Do bring everything you have with you!' She disconnected the call. Asad punched his steering wheel in frustration,

'She wants to play with my daughter's life Zoya. I will plead and beg in front of her but I don't trust her...' Asad placed his head on the steering wheel. Zoya's hand brushed over his head.

'I knew they would've come around' Tanveer smiled shaking her body side to side. She looked at the three big men in front of her. 'Take a good look at the picture, she is the girl!'

'What do we have to do?' One of them asked her,

'You don't have to do anything for now. I wanted to torture Asad by watching her die slowly in front of him. But their pathetic son is hell bent on ruining my plans. I know he'll go running the day Asad comes here...' Tanveer sighed thoughtfully, 'Well we'll think about that later, and for now. Just keep your eyes on her when she goes out.'

'Who is their son, shall we finish him?' Another shouted from the back twisting the knife in his hand.

'Are you crazy? I didn't keep him alive all these years to kill him.' Taneer spat at him.

'If she is ill, how can you be so sure she will go out?' The main guy asked. 'Don't tell me you called us here to play detective?'

'She'll go out, don't you worry. I know the kind of girl she is, goes after her mother. She has regular appointments at the hospital. Anyways, don't do anything to her until I say so. Let me enjoy Asad pleading and begging for a while.' Tanveer sat back against the chair.
'I've kept a surprise ready for them both when they come' Tanveer fanned the papers, 'Let's negotiate' She raised her eyebrows making the men laugh out loudly.

'Why did you call us to your house today, what if someone sees us?' Another man came out of the bathroom and joined the others.

'You see, that good for nothing son of mine has gone out of town, of course I sent him out.' Tanveer shook her glass for the man to re-fill it. 'He's not even my son' She laughed gulping down the rest of the drink holding the glass up at him again, Don't be stingy'

'Why have you kept him here with you? You've lost the party animal in you' Another man sat next to her staring at her flirtatiously, she moved his cheek away from her.

'I kept him for my big plan... Well, I don't really need him now... BUT... he has grown on me. He reminds me of my revenge every time I look at his face, that face, his parents are fools for not recognising him, his face reeks of his father's identity, he may not be a clone of his father like his sister of their mother, but COME ON! He's become annoying lately, but he has helped me reach my goal. I didn't even execute my plan... his hands around Asad's neck was all I needed and their faces when they found out he was alive. Ahsaan is alive ZOYA!' Tanveer shouted in her drunken state, 'Ahsaan is alive for the time being, DON'T MESS WITH ME, don't mess with me...' She got up onto her shaky legs and threw the glass towards one of them before stumbling towards the next room in her drunken state, 'Lock the door on your way out, don't party too hard!' Tanveer shouted falling onto the sofa and closing her eyes.

Ahsaan hid behind the pillar in shock, would be an understatement. His mind wasn't able to register everything as only one thing raced over and over again in his mind; Ayaat and his mother's plans. Tanveer never wanted to save Ayaat, she would never allow him to save her even after Asad begged for her forgiveness, begged for his daughter's life. He stepped back towards the front door and ran into his car. He looked like his father? My sister is a clone of my mother?

'But my family... I was abandoned by my mother though. Why was she screaming Ahsaan is alive Zoya?' What has Ayaat's mother got to do with all of this?' Ahsaan questioned not quite understanding what was happening or what he heard, he still couldn't identify the deception in his life.

-

'Dada-ji, could you please keep this frame in the car?' Ayaat asked handing over a fairly large frame to their driver. He nodded and went back towards the car.

'That picture is adorable bhaji. They have done a wonderful job!' Sofia told her, Ayaat stared at her phone. 'What happened?'

'Nothing.' Ayaat shook her head.

'Come on, Let's try that shop, they have a lot of stuff for men' Sofia pointed walking ahead, she turned around and sighed,
'Did Zain bhaijaan not call you today or something?' Ayaat shook her head sadly. 'Oh ho, come on. I'm sure he will soon. He knows we've come shopping, maybe he'll surprise you' Ayaat's eyes lightened up.

'Really?' She asked,

'Nope!' Sofia burst her bubble and pulled her to come. Ayaat stopped again behind Sofia,

'Don't call me when you finally have time from your stupid meetings! *angry face*'

Ayaat texted him and sighed. Her eyes widened feeling someone's hand go over her mouth, she tried screaming, her hands tried to move his hand away. She watched as he grabbed the phone from her hand and dropped it into Sofia's bag. Ayaat tried reaching forward for her shoulder but Sofia was too engrossed with window shopping and talking to herself. She was pulled into one of the more deserted area of the shopping centre and set free. She turned around scared,

'What the hell- TUM?' Ayaat exclaimed seeing him remove the bandanna from his face. She grabbed him into a hug, 'ASIM! Where have you been, I've missed you!'

'I've missed you too!' He laughed holding her tighter. Ayaat pulled back and looked at him,

'You scared me, wait. What's wrong is everything okay?' She placed her hand on his cheek, he sighed holding his hand over hers.

'You'll have to make a small sacrifice today with every relationship you have for my sake.' He cupped her face,

'What do you mean?' Ayaat asked him.

'Do you trust me?' Ahsaan asked her, she nodded at him.

'With my life!' She smiled, Ahsaan breathed out.

'I don't know whether you'll hate me or love me after you find out the truth about me. But right now, we have an important job to do.' He held her hand placing the bandanna back on and took her out from the back entrance.

'Why have you brought me to the hospital? Asim listen to me, wait, that's the back entrance. Asim tell me what's wrong?' Ayaat watched him jump out of the car and run around it before taking her out.

'You said you trust me...' Ahsaan smiled taking her towards the door, Ayaat looked confused as the door opened and Nikita exited taking them both inside vigilantly. Ayaat watched bewildered with both of them looking around vigilantly taking her onto the 5^th floor.

'Would someone at least tell me what is going on?' Ayaat pleaded tiredly,

'Doctor, I hope you made sure no-one knows about her whereabouts, not even her parents. I'm trusting you on this!' Ahsaan spoke to Nikita.

'HUH?'

'Are you sure we're doing the right thing?' Nikita asked him,

'Of course we are!' Ahsaan looked at Ayaat.

'Okay, what are we doing?' Ayaat asked the both of them, slightly confused.

'He's saving you!' Nikita smiled. 'Okay, I organised everything yesterday, I've asked the nurses to set everything up. Give me an hour to get you both prepared for the transplant.' Nikita whizzed off into one of the rooms. Ahsaan walked up to her and cupped her face into his hands.

'I made a promise along with every drop of blood in my body to always protect you. My conscience revolves around you. Nafrat ka rishta bohot nibha liya, ab mein yeh pyaar ka rishta nibhana chahta hoon. I've tried to hate you, I've tried to separate from you, but I couldn't. This relationship was formed on the basis of hatred, but I want to turn it into love. My conscience has made a decision to do everything right by you, for you. You called me your bhaijaan, mujhe yeh rishta nibhana hai. I swear Ayaat; I will not let anything happen to you as long as I'm alive. I love you, I hope you know that. I also hope that you can forgive me on day' He kissed her forehead wiping away her tears. He stepped back allowing the nurse to take her away while her eyes refused to move off him. He pressed his eyes releasing the brimming tears; he exhaled sharply looking at his bandaged hands.

'I hope you also can forgive me one day Sofia...' He whispered knowing that she would be heartbroken when she realises Ayaat has disappeared.

-----

There you go! If you didn't enjoy that, just throw your tomatoes, chappals and everything else at me now. TBH with all of you, I didn't really have this chapter planned, I had to make up everything as I typed. I'm just laughing at myself right now.

Sighs. It's not THE END guys. One more chapter, final chapter but unfortunately you'll have to wait for it! No amount of spamming will help- telling you guys in advance- you girls know who you are!

Thank you for reading! (Ignore any spelling errors, they're mine- bad eyesight!)

Much loves <3

P.S. Ramadhan Kareem! <3 <3