SS: Abbu EPILOGUE/Page 72 - Page 40

very good update..continue soon...😊

Wow what an update

wow tis is fabulous...

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Woww...awsum...

Awesome update
Rashid was shocked to hear ayaat condition
He was ready to do anything but doc refused
Asad rang tanveer & told her he will go whatever she wants
Ahsan heared talk of tanveer & reached mall to help
He & ayaat reached hospital & he told her abt her surgery
Ramzan Mubarak to u as well
Thanks for pm

This one is for all of you guys who stuck by me till the end, whether through comments, likes or just simply by reading the updates. Your unconditional love and support means the world to me. I wished I could mention names but the list just goes on and on.
This should've been two parts. I cut it down so much and my talent of never getting to the point has made me realise that this part seems rushed so should've been longer. But still I present you the longest of long epilogue in the history of epilogues. The creative part of my brain is on leave, excuse anything that doesn't make sense! Now you might not be happy with the ending, not every character has a proper ending, some deserve it some don't. I haven't ended it where I have because of the sequel. I'm hoping some of you guys will understand it without me having to write it in clear words. And yes, whatever questions you may have will be taken forward onto the sequel and we'll just see how it goes. Do read my small message (I know I know, always lecturing) below this on another comment box. Do leave your comments and love behind, today even the silent readers if there are any. Sorry if I haven't done justice to the ending! I hope you can forgive me! See you on the other side, and for once, I'll wait for the tomatoes and chappals (heels size 3.5/4- thanks!)

P.S. Cousins can get married. Normal circumstances I would not be all for it, but because it makes sense in my head- Sofia and Ahsaan- sound right to me and will happen. Please no-one burst my happy bubble! Lool! Thanks :)

P.S.S. Think I need to hire someone to proofread this crap. Sorry for torture!

Chapter Seventeen- Epilogue

Dressed in her hospital gown, she opened the door to her hospital ward; he was still stood in the same place as before marching back and forth. He stopped and looked at her; Ayaat ran towards him with her bare feet and hugged him tight. Ahsaan was taken aback for a moment before reciprocating the hug.

"I love you too bhaijaan. And... I forgive you" She whispered into his ears. She pulled away from the hug and looked at him, blinking her innocent lashes at him before rushing back towards the room where the nurses were waiting for her.

"Ayaat, wait..." Ahsaan stepped forward and stopped. He breathed out heavily.

"Let's go Ahsaan" Dr Nikita placed her hand on his shoulder; he looked at her with gratitude. He owed her so much.

"Stay strong..." Ahsaan smiled at her from his hospital bed. He watched her lips curve into a smile past the misty oxygen mask. He gazed into her eyes; there was so much he could read in them. If only, if only he hadn't betrayed her trust. You've forgiven me, but what kind of forgiveness can pardon a criminal without knowing his crimes.

Ayaat focused her eyes on him despite her heavy eyelids wanting to invite the darkness into her. She admired his face; she admired the person she wholeheartedly accepted as her brother. Images of their first encounter flashed before her eyes; how can a stranger leave such a mark on a person's life? With every blink she saw Ahsaan, with every breath she called out to Ahsaan... And he came to protect her. Like he promised before they were born. He promised he'd wait for her, he had promised that as long as she could still hear him beating, he'll always be there.

"Ammi, Abbu, Zain..." Ayaat mumbled softly as the sedation worked its charm taking over every sense in her body, except one... Her brother's presence.

-

Zain sat back against his chair feeling exhausted. He ran his fingers through his hair trying to release the day's tension, but he knew there was only one person that could truly do that. Her thoughts lightened up his drained face instantly as a smile formed over his lips. He removed his phone from his pocket and stared at it; 15 missed calls from his beloved. He laughed to himself knowing she must have cursed him with every swear word in the dictionary when she failed to reach him.

"Sorry loves" He whispered apologetically staring at his phone holding one ear.

His fingers ran over his inbox and he opened her message,

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

"That's exactly what I shall do" Zain laughed bringing the phone to his ears. He loosened his tie turning in his chair and sighing. His eyes moved over her cabin, he missed her presence in this room. The room was stacked with papers but it was a neat mess. How much he missed his OCD crazy girl.

"Hey" He spoke huskily over the phone as a small grin played on his lips. However, he wasn't greeted with the same flirty tone on the other side.

"BHAIJAAN, I lost Ayaat bhaji" A distraught Sofia panicked over the phone, she spun on her feet as she crazily browsed the mall once more having checked every inch of it. She grew even more worried finding Ayaat's phone in her bag.

"WHAT?" Zain snapped, "What the hell do you mean by you lost Ayaat? Are you crazy Sofia. Stop kidding around" He warned her jumping out of his seat.

"Bhaijaan, I..." Sofia explained in between her incoherent sobs, every moment or so when she caught her breath she apologised to him knowing she had lost the most precious thing to him.
"I called Abbu" She managed to say finally falling to her knees in desperation.

"Zoya, how could you-" Zain closed his eyes taming every urge to lash out at her but he made his heart understand that first, nothing has happened to her, and second, Sofia needed him.
"Listen to me, it's not your fault. I'm coming to you now. You need to tell her Abbu..." Zain said the last line in a whisper grabbing his coat from the chair and pacing out of the door.

Almighty is really testing our love Ayaat.

Aaj mujhe bhi darr lag raha hai, mujhe darr lag raha ki agar tum mujhse door hogayi, sab pagalpan ki hadh paar hojayega

Sofia looked up feeling someone's heavy hand on her shoulder; she turned her body instantly leaping into his arms.

"Abbu, I don't know how... I just looked away for a moment... For a moment and she was gone. I can't find her" She sobbed uncontrollably. Ayaan's hand patted her back to stop her from shaking, she was frightened, not just of Asad's wrath but for the wellbeing of her sister.

"Heyyy shhh. It's not your fault princess." He brushed her hair before cupping her face; he wiped her tears away trying to comfort her with his eyes. She tensed in his hold looking up at the person behind her; Ayaan watched her lips quiver before taking her into a hug and slowly lifting her up while she refused to move off his chest. Asad stood silently behind Ayaan as he comforted his daughter while she cried over something she had no control over. He loved Ayaat, like crazily, and he knew nothing will happen to her. The father in him wasn't weakened by the incident, he was confident he would find her. But first, this little girl needed his assurance that he didn't blame her at all. Asad's hand went over her head, comforting her,

"Sofia, stop crying beta. This is not your fault. Everything will be fine. We'll find your sister, I will find my Ayaat don't worry beta." He soothed her; Sofia sniffed moving herself away from her father and staring at Asad with her round puffy orbs about to burst into another puddle of tears. He pressed his eyes at her removing Ayaat's phone from her hand and allowing Ayaan to take her away. Asad sighed raking his hair and looking around the busy shopping centre. He was about to walk off when his eyes caught a distressed Zain rushing towards them almost crashing against him in trying to slide himself to a stop, his eyes questioningly went over Sofia's back before moving towards him. Asad didn't need him to speak, he seen the worry in his eyes for his daughter.

"Ayaat?" Zain's lips whispered blinking at Asad getting him to react.

"I'm going to speak to security" Asad gave him a look, a look that neither comforted him nor disregarded him; it was a just look that indirectly invited him to follow behind him. Zain did as the silence ordered him.

As Asad passed each shop, his mind kept yelling at him that she might be in the next shop, or maybe on another floor, or maybe she has gone to the bathroom, no no, maybe she popped out for a breath of fresh air. That must be it. Clearly she wasn't anywhere in the mall as he knowingly searched every corner on his way to the security room.
He stared at the recording in front of him, impatiently waiting for the security officer to forward the tape. Asad's patience was slowly deteriorating, he pulled the security guards chair away with ease and played the tape faster until coming to the time he had dropped her off outside the shopping centre. He watched his little girl enter with a smile on her face; he watched her wave at Sofia before rushing towards her. His eyes didn't fail to notice Zain's reaction seeing her entering the mall, he stepped closer towards Asad without removing his eyes off the screen. His lips recited the times as he forwarded it slowly running over the events until he stopped when they found both of the girls conversing after the driver left. Ayaat was so engrossed with her phone she wasn't listening to Sofia. Zain smiled sadly. His heart screamed as a hooded male, face covered, gloves on, crept behind her placing his hand over her mouth grabbing her phone and throwing it into Sofia's handbag. Asad hammered the table with both hands watching the desperate look on her face, her eyes wide, her legs scraping the floor trying to grab Sofia and alert her. He felt Zain tense beside him moving closer towards the screen, similar emotions running through him in wanting to kill this person who dared to touch Ayaat. They both watched with careful eyes as they disappeared behind the camera's blind spot.

"Is this what you call security?" Zain barked at the officer while Asad furiously scanned all the screens trying to catch a glimpse. "Over there" Zain pointed towards the top screen, Asad watched a car drive away in the distant. Asad slowly looked at Zain who blinked at him; they both didn't know how to react. Asad slipped his phone out of his pockets moving away from the screen. Zain took over the computer screen playing the CCTV footage back and forth.

"Hello" Asad greeted the Commissioner on the other side. Ayaan entered the room; he presented his phone to them.

"Bhabhie" He told them, his eyes wide. Asad closed his eyes and turned away from the phone. He carried on speaking to the Commissioner.

Zain took the phone off him nodding at the security officer,

"Hello?" Zain whispered, almost choking his words out.

"ZAIN!" Zoya clutched the phone tightly against her ears. "What happened? Why isn't Asad answering my calls? Why is Ayaan not talking to me properly? Kya hua, why did Asad leave so suddenly? Someone please tell me" Zoya threw question after question, her level of panic rising by the minute.

"Nothing. Everything is fine." Zain told her.

"Zain, don't lie to me. What are you doing with Asad and Ayaan?" Zoya asked.

"Office emergency. Don't worry. Bye" Zain hung up before looking at both of them.

"I've spoken to the Commissioner, they're sending officers to investigate. I er I will try and look for her" Asad spoke in a whisper about to rush out of the door,

"Tanveer" Zain spoke behind him, Asad froze slowly turning towards him. Asad's eyes grew smaller in realisation, only Tanveer could do something like this. How dare she... His fury blasted his insides, he was giving in to her demands, how dare she touch his daughter... He gritted his teeth mentally tearing her apart. Asad punched the wall beside him, only he knew how he was holding himself together. Hasn't his daughter suffered enough? What enmity does this world have with her, an innocent soul who has never hurt a fly; why was she being tortured? Asad exhaled sharply, cancer cannot harm his daughter and neither can this woman, Asad Ahmed Khan will not allow her to destroy anything any longer. Zain watched him closely, his insides mirroring the same emotions as Asad. He stepped forward to go,

"We need to get Zoya" They heard Asad's voice but everyone remained silent.

Tanveer half opened her eyes and yawned staring at her phone. She had knocked out after a few drinks. The excitement clearly got to her.

"Asad, Asad. Why are you getting so impatient?" Tanveer let out a croaky laugh, her voice was still hoarse. She held the phone against her ear; why wasn't Ahsaan picking up? She looked at her phone, another incoming call,

"TANVEEER AHMEDDD" The voice roared on the other side. Tanveer moved the phone away from her ears; what's gotten his knots in a twist?

"Asad. I can hear you know. Tell me, why have you graced me with your call at this time?" She smirked.

"Where is my daughter? I swear to my Almighty, if anything happens to her, I will KILL YOUUU." Asad warned. Tanveer shot upright, her forehead creased in confusion; that stupid brat is missing? She mentally went through her plans.

"What the hell are you talking about Asad? Are you crazyyy? Why would I kidnap your daughter?" Tanveer asked him innocently mentally cursing the girl for losing herself.

"LISTEN TO ME VERY CAREFULLY YOU WRETCHED WOMAN; tell me where my daughter is before I do something I will not regret." Asad spoke in a dangerous tone. He wasn't a man who was patient, and neither was he a man who doesn't keep his word. Everything that leaves his mouth has finality. Tanveer knew this. She thought about her money and re-planned this. She grinned thinking of another bright plan.

"Have you forgotten my conditions?" Tanveer's voice changed. Asad tensed, Zoya's hands went over his shoulder and assured him.

"I will give you everything Tanveer. Everything. Just give me my daughter back" Zoya pleaded.

"Meet me in two hours. Near old bridge road. No funny business. I have HER." Tanveer put the phone down. Zoya's hand blocked her mouth to stop the sob leaving her mouth. Asad gazed up at the Commissioner with hopeful eyes. He nodded back at him with reassurance.

Tanveer pressed her forehead in annoyance. This is what happens when she closes her eyes for a moment. The world plots against her.

"Where the hell did that dying girl disappear off to? Ufttt" Tanveer pressed her temples feeling a headache taking over. She pushed herself off the sofa and stumbled towards the kitchen, the boys had left it in a state. She rummaged through it just about managing to make a lemon juice to remove the hangover like headache. She furiously dialled Ahsaan's number, with every call she was met with an annoying beep.

"Where is this KID?" Tanveer fumed. "I want him to watch his parents beg at my feet" She sighed finally giving up and texting him. She excitedly grabbed the papers from the dining room and headed upstairs. "Should I call the lawyer first? Hmmm... Let's just scan these to him" Tanveer clapped like a child.

"Asad, here are the documents for DZ Connect. Ammi has signed it and so have I. I've asked everyone's permission at the office... I really want you to take this." Zoya handed the documents over to Asad.

"We're really doing this?" Asad confirmed his doubts, she nodded. He brushed his fingers against her cheek. "I don't care what happens to her, I just want her to agree to save Ayaat. I don't know how I will control myself seeing her in front of me" Asad's eyes flashed with a mixture of emotions.

"You will be able to, for Ayaat. You're her Abbu. Asad, there isn't another father like you. You're willing to put aside all your enmities, forget everything she had done to you, to us, and still beg at her feet for your daughter's happiness. We could easily get her arrested... but not at the cost of our daughter's life." Zoya sighed, Asad brushed her tears away. He pulled her in for a hug and held her tight; comforting himself and consoling her. They both didn't break down finding out that Tanveer had kidnapped their daughter, because they were already broken. She had cancer; can anything else in this world be as frightening as that or as life threatening? As for the kidnapping, Ayaat is Asad Ahmed Khan's daughter; Tanveer won't live if she touched her as long as he was alive. She knew that, he knew she knew that. They knew it was Tanveer's greed that prompted her to do something like that just in case they didn't give her what she wanted, not knowing that they were willing to give their everything, everything. Cancer was the only thing that could take away their daughter, not Tanveer, not anyone.

"I love you" Asad kissed her forehead. Zoya held another document, "That's Ayaan's right and I won't deprive him of his rights."

"Ayaan knows Asad. Ayaan knows what his bhaijaan has entrusted to him, but he said, the company is yours and will remain so. If you still don't agree, for Ayaat's sake." Zoya repeated Ayaan's words. "You didn't tell him, did you?"

"I didn't get the chance." Asad sighed. He looked up hearing someone knock on the door; he held her tighter asking for them to come inside.

Zain entered the room hesitantly; this was the first time he was going to speak to Asad properly, while they're both partly sane. He was met with a sight that warmed his heart, Zoya in the arms of Asad as they both watched him enter.

"I want to come with you" Zain voiced his thoughts with the little bit of courage left in him. He stared at the floor waiting for them to answer. Zoya looked up at Asad whose eyes hadn't left him. Zain's respect for Asad always left her in awe; there's no-one quite like him. Sometimes she finds it hard to believe that he is Tanveer's son, to her, he was the son of honourable parents. Unaware of his reality, Zoya prayed for Zain from the bottom of her heart for his happiness, for her daughter and his relationship. Asad nodded a reply. He was about to speak when Zain looked up and met his eyes; his orbs portraying some deep emotions, what and why, he wasn't quite sure. But one thing was for sure, it was for Ayaat.

"I have some unfinished business with her" Zain spoke in a tone that was calm yet filled with disgust.

"Mr Khan?" They all heard a voice. Asad rushed out of the room linking his fingers with Zoya and literally dragging her with him. He tensed seeing the Commissioner,

"I've just received confirmation from the officers. That car indeed belonged to the person you were suspicious about. We managed to get a clear picture of the number plates and it belongs to Ahsaan. Now, I don't know what you want to do from here Mr Khan."

"We're going ahead with the same plan" Asad said with finality. How can he do this to his own sister?

"I er... No matter who they are, if you do wrong, you have to be punished." Zoya spoke tearfully as the mother in her still held onto a string of hope that her prayers will keep him protected. The Commissioner nodded back at her before leaving the house. Zain breathed into his hands, he mumbled something to Zoya before rushing out of the house.

He sat inside his car staring ahead into nothingness. He just wanted her in his arms, away from the bad bad world. He never wanted her to go through any pain, any harm or any dangers. He had always prayed for her to be protected, safe, away from anything that could hurt her. He would rather hurt than see her hurt. Yet again, he failed to protect her.

"My heart didn't want to leave you that night Ayaat. I guess it knew of this small separation before it happened. I'm guessing this a small test from the Almighty, to see how long I can stay without you. I cannot spend a moment without you, without seeing your face, without hearing your voice. I love you so much Ayaat. I know that wherever you are, you're safe. Because my heart feels safe, it's beating just like yours; we are united Ayaat. I know that nothing will happen to you, that's my belief as your lover, I will bring you back, that's my promise to your mother as her son." Zain whispered. He tilted his head to his left to find Asad and Zoya entering the SUV. His head shot towards his phone that was vibrating, he stared at it for a moment trying to register it in his mind. He picked it up watching the SUV drive off,

"Ahsaan" Zain managed to let out. There were no emotions, just an expectation... He was Ayaat's twin after all.

The transplant was successful as Ahsaan lay unconscious on his hospital bed. He was unaware of his surrounding, and its people. He was miles away from Tanveer's scheming against his parents, he was deaf to her curses for his sister... for once, he was somewhere pure, free of evil and mind games. Everything slowly bombarded his mind, Ayaat's operation, his mother's plans, Asad's helplessness, Zain's fight for Ayaat... His eyes shot open before closing again as the sharp light blinded him. He groaned with pain, his eyes felt heavy and his head was still feeling drowsy from the sedation. Remembering Ayaat, he fought slowly opening his eyes, he was met with the dull colour of the hospital ceiling, and a weird smell sickening his insides; he hated hospitals.

He tilted his head to his side to find the nurses playing with the wires attached to his body.

"How is she?" His voice came out hoarse, he found it weird listening to the sound of his own voice. His throat felt dry and his chest slightly heavy.

"She's doing good sweetheart. You've done great" The nurse caressed his head. "She's still out of it, it might be awhile before she gains consciousness but Dr Sengupta said everything is good" An instant smile adorned his tired face; she was going to be just fine. He closed his eyes remembering Zain's sad eyes, his pleading face,

"She's going to be fine Zain. She's going to be fine" He whispered as a lone tear escaped his eyes. Ayaat was almost free of cancer, she can live a healthier, a brighter life, her future was finally set. He felt a huge weight lift off his shoulders; he had completed his responsibility as a brother. He stared at the ceiling wondering about his life and where he had come... His thoughts shifted to Tanveer, his mother and her plotting and scheming. He could never accept her plans, he only acted upon them for her sake, so that he didn't lose the only family he had. But today, something changed. His ears had heard a lot of things but his mind was unable to register any of it. His mother, whom he had blinded faith upon... He went against her to save Ayaat whom he had no relation with yet today, his relationship with Ayaat seemed stronger than any other relationship he had formed with anyone. What did he see in Zoya's eyes that day that pulled his insides, why did his hands shiver holding his hand around Asad's throat, what was it about that family that seemed like his own. His mind had not allowed his heart to question himself before, but today when he finally had the courage to do it for Ayaat's sake... Things seemed more complicated as guilt took over every bit of his body.

"Nurse, can I have my phone... Please?" He pleaded to which the nurse reluctantly agreed.

He stared at his phone; 25 missed calls from his mother.

He breathed out sharply pushing himself to sit against the bed; his forehead creased as he read the message. He pressed his forehead feeling a headache, its pain taking over the upper part of his body. He realised he also had a few missed calls from Zain; it must've been over Ayaat. He sighed raking his hair trying to think over what he should no. In the next moment, he ended up calling Zain. He closed his eyes,

"Zain" He spoke into the phone softly,

"Ahsaan, how could you?!!!!!" Zain's overpowering voice pierced through the phone. "She's your sister and you kidnapped her for that mother of yours? How low can you stoop, SHE'S YOUR OWN SISTER!!!!" Zain shouted at him in a fit of rage, he hit the steering wheel in frustration.

"Zain, listen to me. Ayaat is safe. I don't know what she has planned but listen to me... Meet me outside the Health Centre in 5 minutes... 5 minutes Zain... For Ayaat's sake" Ahsaan begged him pulling the wires out of his hand. The nurse rushed in hearing the monitor beep furiously.

"Oh my God, what are you doing? You're not well enough to-" The nurse panicked seeing him get off the bed.

"I'm well enough for this" Ahsaan spoke breathlessly holding the bed to support himself, his knees waivered threatening to drop him.

Zain stared at his phone, Ahsaan's words still ringing in his ears. Ayaat is safe.

He chose to believe him, because his heart was screaming that he was speaking the truth, he saw the love and care for Ayaat in his eyes. He wouldn't do anything to her no matter what Tanveer says. He quickly started the engine and drove off, not knowing what exactly he was walking into but he knew he'd find some solution.

His eyes instantly caught Ahsaan's body; he had a hoody over his hospital clothing. He didn't look too well. Zain jumped out of his car and grabbed his shoulders,

"Ahsaan, what's wrong with you? Are you okay?" Zain was alarmed seeing his state. "How could you do this to Ayaat. She's your sister, your twin sister Ahsaan. She loves you so much and you-" Zain froze looking into his eyes. "How can you be so easily manipulated by Tanveer's lies?"

"Ayaat is fine. Her transplant was successful" Ahsaan smiled at Zain's distressed face which turned into shock.

"Wwwhat? You mean my Ayaat- you saved my Ayaat?" Zain's lips quivered as tears formed in his eyes, he stepped back placing both of his hands on his head in disbelief, he shook his head pressing out his tears.
"Almighty!" Zain whispered looking up at Ahsaan's face. "I love you man" Zain grabbed him into a hug. "Thank you so much, I mean how did you-" He pulled back and looked at Ahsaan carefully. "You're not wel-"

"What did you mean how could I do this to my twin sister?" Ahsaan managed let out, everything was slowly starting to register in his head. Zain shook his head trying to brush it off but his determined face forced him to speak; it was now or never. "Why do I have a feeling you know more about my relationship with my mother than I?" Zain wiped his hands over his face.

"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."

"You know why Ayaat's Abbu hates me?" Zain whispered staring into his eyes; they both remembered their argument outside the hospital few weeks back. "Because he thinks that I am Tanveer's son"

"But you're not" Ahsaan said quickly.

"Luckily after 18 years, I finally found out she isn't my mother. Tanveer Ahmed is NOT my mother. But that's not the important bit, what's important is that she claimed I was her son and left me abandoned in some hospital. Daadi took me in. He hates me because Tanveer took away everything he had; his wife. Ayaat's Ammi. Every time he looks at me, he remembers the deception my so called mother gave him, and his fear is that I will turn into her one day." Zain turned around while Ahsaan blinked at his back to continue knowing there was more to this story, "Eighteen years later, they finally met. Ayaat had found her Abbu but along with his daughter, he found out something else. Ayaat was a twin, but her twin was kidnapped and killed by someone." Ahsaan shivered as images of the baby from TV screen plagued his mind. "That someone being your fake mother Tanveer Ahmed. We thought Ayaat's twin was dead until that day in the hospital" Zain's voice trailed off.

"Who is he?" Ahsaan choked.

"Have you ever wondered why you feel a connection with Ayaat despite everything? Why she instantly called you brother? That day when she wanted to save you, she was doing it for her twin's sake... Whom she had very much kept alive in her heart." Zain sighed. Ahsaan yanked him by his shoulder forcing him to turn around to face him.

"Who is he?" Ahsaan asked; he knew the answer. He just wanted to hear it from his mouth, not because it would sound holy and be the ultimate truth but because he wanted someone to say what was on his mind right this instant.

"She doesn't know he is alive. But today her parents are going to beg Tanveer to allow Ayaat's twin to save her. They are going to plead for her life."

"Zain just tell me DAMMITTT" Ahsaan yelled frustrated, tears streaming down his eyes as the last few months flashed before his eyes.

"Ahsaan Asad Ahmed Khan" Zain spoke each name, one by one so that it drills into his mind, "YOU!" He shouted back at him. Ahsaan stumbled back a few steps, his eyes blurred instantly. His hands shivered as he felt a current strike every part of his body leaving him numb from the shock. His lips quivered, his knees waivered threatening to drop him. Zain held his shoulder to provide him with support; Ahsaan coughed feeling his throat go dry. Something shattered inside of him; his faith. He gasped for breath clutching onto Zain for comfort as every emotion took over his mind and soul; images of Asad and Zoya flashed one by one, incident by incident before his eyes. How much he had tried to harm Asad, his father, how much he wanted to blast his mother in the hospital, everything was in front of him in clear pictures to remind him of his sin. How blind he had been, how easily he committed those sins. He looked to his left and met Zain's eyes questioningly; those were not the eyes of a liar his heart, mind and soul screamed back at him.

"Ayaat is my sister?" Was all Ahsaan managed to let out after everything. Zain supported him inside the car knowing that he wasn't well enough to take all this in but he was glad he told him. It was about time, he didn't know what Asad and Zoya were waiting for, but they needed their child back, now more than ever. Ahsaan closed his eyes placing his head back against the headrest. Zain stared at him from his driver's seat.

"Everyone makes mistakes Ahsaan. Only a few are lucky enough to make amends before it's too late." Ahsaan opened his eyes and looked at him.

"Old Bridge Road" Ahsaan whispered staring at the radio attached to Zain's steering wheel.

"Your parent's deserve justice" Zain replied starting the engine and driving off. Ahsaan was too shocked to even speak, he stared ahead of himself lost, lost in a world where he could see nothing but darkness. His life had become meaningless, he should've been happy to find out that his parents are alive, they love him, his sister Ayaat... But he was guilty of hurting each and every one of them. The guilt, the realisations, the burdening truth was burning his insides... And then Tanveer. He recalled his parent's words, he remembered Zain's taunts. How much of a fool he had been. He was blinded by his fear, fear of being alone. The person who supposedly had taken away his loneliness turned out to be the person who had given it to him in the first place.

I had kept him for my big plan

He reminds me of my revenge everytime I look at him.

His hands around Asad's neck was all I needed and their faces when they found out he was alive. Ahsaan is alive ZOYA!
Ahsaan is alive for the time being, DON'T MESS WITH ME, don't mess with me...

"She was going to get rid of me..." Ahsaan's voice came out broken. "I called her my mother" Zain watched his body tense.

"Why did you come for revenge Ahsaan?"

"She said As-" Ahsaan fisted his hands, "He killed her son and took away her happiness. I fought for a mother who was stripped off everything she had by him. How wrong I had been to..."

"Her baby was born dead" Zain looked at him, "She destroyed him, he didn't do anything..." He defended Asad.

"What are you made of Zain?" Ahsaan asked suddenly finally bringing himself out of the shock. "You suffered for 18 years yet your respect for him never decreases." Zain remained silent parking behind one of the trees. He watched in the distant as Tanveer exited her car, with two huge looking men following behind her. She indicated for them to leave her side, that smirk on her face scratched his insides; the rage in him was building slowly. He looked at Ahsaan before switching the radio on. He looked past Ahsaan's shoulder at the police officers standing nearby in disguise; today was for justice.

"I have another plan" Ahsaan looked at Zain who was watching him expectantly.

"Well well well, if it isn't Mr and Mrs Khan, oh hand in hand, how sweeet." Tanveer clapped her hands. Asad's hand tightened around Zoya's, her free arm clung onto him at the sight of her. Asad's burning gaze remained locked on Tanveer's smirking face; Zoya tilted her head sideways to look into the car through the tinted windows to see if her daughter was in there. Tanveer did the same blocking Zoya's view, Zoya glared back at her.

"So first things first. Oh tsch, too bad your son isn't here to see this." She looked at her watch, "Okay first, for your daughter's freedom and then for her life" A growl left Asad's mouth seeing the devilish grin on her face; I know I'm a heartless bitch Tanveer nodded at them blinking her innocent lashes. She put her hand out, "Gimme gimme" She opened and closed her hand.

Asad stepped forward,

"I'm transferring 48% of Dilshad Constructions to you along with everything related to DZ Connect." Asad held the documents up at her, "Now give my daughter you pathetic woman. Go fulfil your selfish needs" Asad spoke disgusted. His stern eyes remained on hers, he watched her eyes falter; something was wrong.

"What makes you sure Dilshad Constructions is yours to give?" Tanveer raised her eyebrow placing one hand inside her bag, "Only 48%. You really don't want your daughter back do you?" She shook her head playfully.

"What do you mean?' Zoya cried grabbing Asad's hand stepping forward. "We gave you everything we own!"

"Wrong, you're giving me back what I already own!" Tanveer declared holding the papers in plain sight; Asad and Zoya looked at it confused. Tanveer was stumped when she didn't get the reaction she was seeking as she stared into their blank eyes.

"That may be my signature Tanveer. But you aren't any richer. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news" Asad taunted. Zain smiled inside the car, Ahsaan sighed a breath of relief.

"What?" Tanveer snapped.

"I have no property in my name" Asad told her. Tanveer gritted her teeth; her nose blew outwards in anger.

"That pathetic kid!!!!!!!!!" She shouted in anger.

"UH UH Tanveer!" Zoya spoke with wide eyes, "Not a word about my son unless you want your head separated from your body and ripped to pieces" The mother lioness warned. Asad looked back at her with pride.

"My daughter Tanveer!" Asad spoke in a stern voice. Tanveer brushed her hair back trying to control her temper.

"Who's name is the property in? You two are chatting bullshit!" Tanveer screeched.

"Why else am I giving you 48%?" Zoya asked her, "I gave you DZ Connect, what more do you want you selfish woman?" Zoya pushed Asad out of the way. "Give me my daughter before I KILL YOUUU!" Zoya slapped Tanveer. Tanveer held her cheek, the effect of the slap still ringing in her ears.

"Wrong move b*****!" Tanveer pushed Zoya who was caught by Asad.

"Don't you dareee!!!!" Asad warned her, his storming voice echoed back in to their ears.

"You just made the wrong moves. Your daughter is in there and I could easily get him to push the jeep off the bridge." Asad's eyes widened, he was about to strangle her but she jumped back shaking her head, her eyes suddenly venomous.

Ahsaan jumped out of the car not being able to take anymore of her games.

"STOPPP!" Zain grabbed his arm, "She doesn't have Ayaat. She's playing them we know that. We need to wait for the right moment. Trust me, wait" He breathed out.

"I'm willing to give you another chance. Tell me who owns the other shares of the company" Tanveer asked in her sudden calm voice. Ahsaan breathed out a sigh.

"Ayaat" Answered Asad. Tanveer chuckled.

"That wasn't so hard was it?" Tanveer smiled.
"Now, to get her signatures" She spoke thoughtfully. Asad and Zoya looked at her horrified; she doesn't have their daughter.

"Mama, I have her." Came a voice from behind. A stunned Zoya and Asad turned to find Ahsaan. Tanveer started laughing like a maniac.

"I have her signatures" Ahsaan held up a piece of blank papers. Please work please work... He chanted over and over again. Zain had overheard Asad talking to Prasad a few weeks back about most of the company shares being transferred to Ayaat's name. He knew she will pressurize them to tell her who the company belongs to receiving only 48%. What he didn't know was that Tanveer thought she already had all the company shares. When he realised that Asad and Zoya was going to panic realising she didn't have Ayaat, he decided to send Ahsaan with a few blank papers he signed. Asad and Zoya already thought Ahsaan had her. It was their turn to play with her. Tanveer was going to get the biggest shock of her life.

"My BOY!" Tanveer cheered opening her arms. Zoya clung onto Asad as tears overflowed their eyes watching a weak Ahsaan limp past them. Ahsaan stared into Zoya's eyes, his heart pleading for her not to hate him. He couldn't see her so broken. He looked up at his father, he felt even more weak knowing that he had broken the toughest man anyone had ever known.

He reached Tanveer's arms, how his desire to strangle her was filling his every vein; he didn't know he was holding himself from killing her. He faked a smile passing her the papers. She sighed in contentment kissing the papers.

"Well done." She tapped his cheek. Zoya watched shocked as she did not glance him another look, he was in such a bad condition, she didn't have an ounce of worry in her for him. She met his remorseful eyes, so full of regret and guilt. Her heart melted seeing him look down onto the floor; she might have just gotten her son back.

"Now for her life" Tanveer sniggered placing the papers into her bag. She looked at Ahsaan and confirmed that they really had her in their confinement. How bloody brilliant. It is your lucky day Tanveer.

"Beg" She mouthed, "Beg for her life'" Tanveer pointed towards her feet, her voice had no mercy.

Asad looked down at Zoya who shook her head against his chest, tears refusing to stop falling from her eyes. I am her father. He un-clung her from him stepping forward towards Tanveer. Ahsaan stepped back and turned around walking towards the car. He ordered for the two guys to roll their windows down,

"You two leave. Mama has important work to do. No witnesses" Ahsaan spoke with stern eyes.

"She said to wait here for her signal."

"Mama" Ahsaan called and pointed towards his phone, Tanveer nodded thinking he was talking about bringing Ayaat in. She looked back at Asad, her eyes glistened with excitement. She heard the engine start in the distant before the car drove off, her head shot towards them.

"What the bloody hell?" Tanveer grunted. She stared at Ahsaan in the distant on the phone. She shrugged her shoulders and nodded at Asad. Tanveer mentally danced in glee, she had reduced Asad Ahmed Khan to this. He was going to get on his knees and beg for her life. Asad bended his knees,

"STOPPP!" Zain shouted from behind, Asad sprang upright. Tanveer closed her eyes in annoyance. She found Zain running towards them. Great.

"What now son?" Tanveer spoke impatiently before choking; Ahsaan had his arms around her neck. Her bag fell out of her hands as Zain stood in front of her gloating.

"How does it feel Tanveer? How does it feel now, but don't worry I'll do the dirty work myself!" Zain grabbed her throat in between his hand pushing her back after Ahsaan let go. She clawed his hands to let go. He roared before throwing her back, Tanveer went flying against the floor, she looked up horrified as Ahsaan and Zain stood above her; ready to kill her. Asad and Zoya stared confused.

"Ahsaan" She choked holding her hands against her chest trying to catch her breath. "You fell into their trap?"

"Shut uppp! How much more are you going to lie? Give up now." Ahsaan spat at her.

"All this for that little bitch" Tanveer grabbed her bag standing up, Zain stepped forward and was about to backhand her, everyone behind him was breathing harshly. Tanveer managed to move his hand away grabbing her gun from her bag and pointing at them, panting. Zoya gasped as Asad swiftly moved her behind him to protect her. Ahsaan stepped in front of Asad but Zain covered him.

"Great now you're all getting in a line to die. Fantastic. I'll kill everyone one of you and then I'll kill that BRAT. No actually, I don't have to, she's dying anyway." Tanveer mocked a laugh, Asad gritted his teeth wanting to kill her but Zoya held onto his hand in fear. Tanveer looked mentally unstable. All four shivered.

"Well Ayaat is safe Tanveer. Ahsaan saved her. The transplant was successful. Sorry to burst your bubble" Zain threw back at her. Asad and Zoya stared at Ahsaan's back; that's why he was in hospital clothes. Everything made sense now. Though little by little.

"NOO NOOO. My plans will not fail like this. I waited 18 years for this moment. To ruin Najma, to ruin Imran" Asad's eyes widened, "Oh they didn't tell you. All this is happening because of Imran." She laughed, "How the hell did you two get back together? I killed everything you had" She pointed at them both and the love between them.

"True love never dies Tanveer." Zoya spoke from behind; Asad didn't let her move out of his protection.

"Too bad you'll die with your true love. Even better. You'll die with your son, a son that you thought was already dead. It shouldn't hurt you too much. Cannot believe I had to be pretend to be his mother all those years, but no worries, at least he helped me make you like this. I hated his face" Ahsaan stared at her with wide eyes,

"When I took him from the hospital, I really did want to kill him there and then but thought no. Why not use him to kill you. Forget it now. It doesn't matter" She brushed her hair away consoling herself. She sniffed dramatically clicking the gun; "I'm going to kill you now" She told them. "and then I will find that daughter of yours and shoot her point blank" She smiled. Zain stepped forward against the gun,

"SHOOT THEN!" Zain yelled at her. Tanveer closed her eyes and clicked her gun. The noise echoed back into the ears of the audience.

Zoya shrieked loudly while Ahsaan stood frozen staring at Zain's back. Asad pulled Zain away holding him in his arms and staring back at Tanveer with wide eyes. The gun fell out of her hands as she fell to the ground holding her chest. She cried with pain as blood splurged from her chest. The police officers scurried onto the roads filling it instantly. Ahsaan blinked and looked at Zain in Asad's arms. Zoya held onto Asad breathing out a sigh of relief. Asad slowly let go of Zain watching the police arrest Tanveer, they were going to take her to the hospital before removing her from their lives.

The Commissioner walked towards the four who were still in shock,

"Sorry it took so long. We needed a full confession; I want her in for good!" He looked back at her, "It should've been through her heart!" He said disgusted. "I'm guessing you know about Ayaat's whereabouts. Please take care of yourself-"

"Ahsaaan!!!!" Zoya screamed watching him fall off his feet, Asad grabbed him, he and Zain picked him up rushing towards the police jeep with his body.

"How is he doctor?" Asad rushed towards the doctor once he came out,

"He has just undergone a surgery. He's weak and he's hurt. He'll be fine. He needs to rest." The doctor assured him.

"Ayaat" Zain spoke suddenly, Asad and Zoya looked at him.

"You go, I'll wait here" Ayaan pushed Asad. Asad, Zoya and Zain rushed towards the lift, they stopped on third floor and crowded Nikita's room demanding answers. Nikita jumped out of her seat and gulped seeing the three set of eyes burning her with their questioning gazes.

"Follow me" She replied softly walking around them, they all walked behind her quietly, anxiously wanting to see her. As soon as the ward door opened, a restless Zain rushed towards the hospital bed falling on his knees,

"Ayaaat?!" He called her name. Asad and Zoya froze at the door, their eyes moving over Ayaat before falling on a worried Zain. Ayaat opened her eyes slowly and smiled back at him. Zain caressed her forehead delicately; he moved his head closer so that the back of her fingers could reach his face.

"Everything will be fine" She whispered softly in her drowsy state. He wiped the tears escaping her eyes nodding his head. Zain realised what he was doing, he coughed straightening himself and stepped back seeing Asad and Zoya sit on the other side of the bed. Zoya pressed her hand over her forehead, Asad held Ayaat's hand in between his.

"Her Ahsaan really saved her" Asad whispered. Ayaat attempted to smile back at him, her eyes slowly giving up on her.

"If only she knew" Zoya placed her head on his shoulder. "How much her father fought for her" She slipped her fingers in between his.

Zain smiled admiring their peaceful expressions, after so long. Zain sent a prayer above to the Almighty. Their struggles, their pain, their sufferings have finally come to an end. The beautiful future they have dreamt for their daughter will finally come together. All those moments they yearned to spend without worrying about her health, her cancer, those moments were finally here. He sighed moving his eyes towards a sleeping Ayaat. She will finally get her Ahsaan; her perfect complete family. He couldn't wait to see the curves on her face when she finds out the truth. He stepped back out of the room brushing his tears away. The Almighty had heard their prayers. He met Asad's calm eyes closing the door; he turned to find Rashid and Dilshad who engulfed him into a hug. He sighed a breath of relief finding solace in their arms.

"Everything will be fine"

Those were the words engraved on everyone's minds. There was nothing that was going to come in the way of their happiness.

-

Ahsaan stared out of the hospital windows, his mind was polluted with thoughts, his ears were filled with the echoes of his past and present. Where does he go from here? He had lost himself in trying to find his destination, and that's where his inner voice reminded him; you never had a destination Ahsaan. You should've known right from wrong, you should've understood that these were good people. You lived with them, you deceived them yet they did not let their tongues slip in front of you. How were you going to ask for forgiveness after committing unforgiveable sins? The Almighty would not forgive you for misbehaving with your parents. Your parents, they are your parents Ahsaan. He pressed out his tears, his body shook from releasing the pain, a soft whimper left his mouth.

"Ya Allah." He called out to his Lord to provide him comfort, to understand his dilemmas, to release him from this guilt. But he knew, his repentance is not short. His repentance is not complete. A sudden memory flashed before his eyes, when he met that elderly woman in the same hospital corridors, her tears of repentance, her tears of guilt overflowing her eyes, he remembered how he comforted her, how he gave her faith that it will be fine; she needed to seek forgiveness from those she wronged. He knew things were not so easy but he wanted to ask for forgiveness. He'll plead in front of them and then he'll let them be; happy. That's what they were before he entered their lives and that's what they will be when he exits it.

A broken Ahsaan had made up his mind. He knew what he wanted to do, he just needed the courage and strength to face them.

A sudden knock on the door brought him out of his thoughts; he wiped his tears with the back of his arm. He looked back without moving his legs back onto the bed.

"Hey, how are you feeling?" Zain smiled at him carrying a side bag inside. Ahsaan remained silent, he moved his gaze away from him and looked back out of the window. "You're being discharged today. Get changed." He continued ignoring his silence. "Ayaat is doing well" Ahsaan looked to his side, Zain nodded. "Come on, we have to go home."

"Zain. Please." Ahsaan shook his head in a no.

"Please what? Don't you want to go home?" Zain asked.

"I don't have a home." Ahsaan said softly.

"You do have a home. And your parents are waiting for you." Zain looked towards the door, Ayaan and Zuhair nodded. "Ayaat has already been discharged today. She wants to see you. Come on" He placed the bag on the hospital bed and zipped it open. He removed a pair of jeans and a plain white top.

"I can't take any more favours" Ahsaan placed his hand on the clothes.

"This is from a brother to another brother" Zain placed the clothes onto his lap. "This relationship will not change." Zain picked him up and pushed him towards the bathroom. Ahsaan looked back at him. He remembered their conversations about Ayaat. Saala. He in fact did turn out to be his brother in law. Ayaat was his sister.

Ayaat sat against the sofa, her eyes still puffy from the lack of sleep at the hospital over the past week or so. She stared above at her parents while Ayaan narrated everything that happened in the last month or so. Asad didn't want her hearing any of it but Zoya assured him that it was important for her to grasp everything before she came face to face with her brother. Not that she wanted to her to hate him, she wanted her to accept him knowing the truth.

"So what is she, like, dead?" Ayaat blinked, her head felt heavy hearing about everything that happened. Her parents have protected her well. But she was hurt, hurt just thinking about what they must've gone through.

"Listen to me Ayaat" Ayaan looked at Zoya, "Asim is not who you think he is. Asim is Ahsaan. Your brother Ahsaan." He watched her eyes widen, with what sort of emotion he didn't quite know. Everyone stared at her waiting for her to react but she remained frozen, frozen until Asad wrapped his arms around her to give her comfort. He was scared she stopped breathing in shock because of how still she sat. She closed her eyes holding her ears against her father's chest being able to hear his heartbeat; she tried to digest the realities being thrown at her. Her eyes slowly opened swaying over everyone's faces before landing on her mother's face who stood there staring at her. Their Ahsaan was alive. He was with them all these days and they didn't know. Her bonding with him was so strong from the beginning, they shared the same birthdays, their blood groups matched; how could she have been so blind? She watched her mother's eyes soften; they changed from worry to relief as she stared towards the door.

Ahsaan froze being able to feel everyone's eyes on him. But one particular gaze had him breaking before he even set foot inside the house. He looked towards her, hidden in her father's arms, their father's arms, her eyes peeking at him with unshed tears; right that very moment, he knew that she knew everything about him. He would be able to handle everyone's hatred but hers, he couldn't. That was his twin sister, who he shares his heartbeats with, the girl that loved him unconditionally, the girl that trusted him blindly sacrificing everything for him; how was he ever going to answer to her?

He felt his body drift backwards only to hit something, he looked to his side to find Zain standing there encouraging him to go inside.

"I er I can't do this" Ahsaan whispered quietly, his body suddenly threatening to drop him. Zain placed his free hand on his shoulder,

"It will be fine. I'm here with you throughout don't worry. Ayaat loves you, remember that" Zain comforted him realising he was more worried about her hating him. Zain looked up at Ayaat who was still recovering from her surgery; this was the last thing she needed. Her eyes met his momentarily; he pressed his eyes to re-assure her. He felt Ahsaan tense watching Ayaat slowly get up out of her father's arms. Zain didn't have to push him; Ahsaan stepped inside moving closer towards her willingly. Ayaat walked around the sofa without removing her eyes off him, he too walked towards her in a trance. He halted seeing tears overflowing her eyes, his lips quivered staring into her round orbs. She shook her head in a no coming face to face with him; he watched her hand lift towards his face. He closed his eyes feeling her hand against his cheek, his hand wrapped over hers instantly. He opened his eyes, the over pouring love and care from her eyes, for him, blew him away. She wasn't angry. A cry left her mouth as she cupped his face into her hands,

"Ahsaan..." Ayaat whispered, tears flowing from her eyes. A soft whimper left his mouth hearing his name, his real name, from her lips. No deception, no lies... There was no bitterness; she didn't hold any grudges against him. Right this very moment, the only thing that mattered to her was that she got her Ahsaan back, her twin brother. Ahsaan pressed out his tears taking her delicate face into his hands, he held his forehead against hers.

"I I am, I Ahsaan" He cried, his name leaving his mouth as a whisper. She nodded at him; she inhaled excessively, her nose red from crying. He shook his head wiping away her tears, she nodded at him again. "I'm so sorry, I am so sorry for everything" His voice came out broken. He shook his head unable to meet her eyes. He held his head down at her, she lifted his face. Zoya put her arms out towards Asad asking her to pull her in and hug her tight, which he did. He held her tightly in his arms as tears escaped their eyes watching the twins interact as twins after 18 years.

"Ahsaan, no no. Look at me. I told you, please look at me" Ayaat pleaded, he slowly looked up at her, his eyes red. "What did I say to you in the hospital?" Ahsaan shook his head at her, "No no, don't do that. I forgive you. Yes I forgive you. You're my brother, my twin brother. We share the same heartbeats... I don't care about the past. For me what matters is that, I have you, here with me. You have no idea how badly I wanted you by my side since I found out I had a twin brother. You're okay, everything is okay, you saved me. You came back for me" She threw herself into his arms breaking into a sob making him cry along with her again. He wrapped his arms around her tightly shaking his body side to side to comfort her, and himself.

"Ahsaan?" Ayaan called softly. He looked up at him, his eyes brushing over Sofia's face in his arms. Ayaan nodded towards his parents, Ahsaan's eyes immediately fell onto the floor, at their feet. Ayaat looked up at him; she followed his gaze towards their parents. She placed her hand in his and pressed it, he looked down at their hands before moving his eyes to her face, she smiled back at him, dazzling her dimples. Zain laughed to himself. Dimples. Showoff. Ayaat pressed her eyes at her brother, glancing her beloved a quick look, she turned towards her parents pulling her brother behind her. Zoya remained in Asad's arms watching them come towards her and Asad; her hands went over her mouth to control her emotions. Ayaat observed her parents as they both stared at her, it seemed like she was lecturing her parents with her eyes in her brother's defence. She stepped away revealing Ahsaan, his head down, eyes on the floor and his hands beside him. Zoya slowly looked up at Asad, they both blinked at each other.

"I have a committed a sin" Ahsaan started, his voice full of remorse. His parents looked at him, their eyes slowly filling again. Ayaat breathed out a sigh. She glanced at Zain who stood as a rock providing everyone the support they needed just by his presence. Humeira and Zuhair stood in each other's arms both praying silently for the happiness of this family, Rashid smiled at Dilshad; after many darkness filled nights, the bright morning had finally come.

"I I don't know how to ask for your forgiveness" His voice broke, "I am sorry for everything, everything that I have done. I don't know if you'll ever be able to accept me... I'm sorry... I didn't mean to- I' His knees waivered dropping him onto the floor, Zoya gasped her eyes turned wide seeing him fall with a thud, he was so broken. She removed Asad's hand but moved back a step finding him place his head on the floor near their feet. "I'm sorry! Mujhe maaf kar do. I will never be able to forgive myself" He cried. Ayaat held her hands against her chest; she looked towards her father with hope. Zoya instantly fell on her knees; she grabbed his shoulders with her shaky hands and lifted his heavy body up. He was breathless from his crying, his eyes red and puffy. She looked into his blurry eyes, her own dripping endlessly. She shook her head wiping his tears away; she was his mother. No mother can stay angry at their children for too long, she just prayed to the Almighty thanking Him for bringing her son back to her.

"Ahsaan, my bacha" Zoya whispered, Ahsaan fell against her chest instantly clutching her towards him. This was his mother. His mother. He thought he was an orphan without no-one in this world. He thought he might have been an illegitimate child brought into this world and then discarded. He felt ashamed for even thinking such things, his mother was too pure, too righteous; it would be an insult to her motherhood to relate such horrid thoughts to his relationship with her, to name his relationship with her "illegitimate". He was a legitimate child, brought into this world by these two wonderful people. People that he hurt. His heart clawed inside of him again, tearing every bit of his insides with his guilt. Zoya's hand caressed the back of his head kissing it occasionally whispering his name over and over again. Ahsaan tilted his head back silencing his cry feeling someone's hand go over his head, it wasn't Zoya's, the touch was different. He blinked away the fresh set of tears forming in his eyes; he focused his eyes to find Asad kneeling beside Zoya; his face wearing a smile he thought he'd never see. He brushed his fingers through his hair again; right that moment, he knew, his parents had forgiven him.

"We'll forgive you on one condition" Asad's sudden serious expressions scared the daylights out of Ahsaan. His heart dropped instantly. He looked at Zoya who pressed his eyes at him.
"You have to call me Abbu first!" Asad smiled. Ahsaan could hear everyone laughing softly around him.

"No, Ammi first!" Zoya argued, they both looked at him. He admired them both not knowing how to react.

"Come on then" Ayaat stood above them with her hands on her waist, "That's the last time they're arguing over you." Everyone looked at her weird, "What? Mujhe bhool gaye itne jaldi? Nuh uh, aint happening, I remain the favourite child, watch it!" She eyed Ahsaan before winking at him. Asad burst into a laugh, Zoya shook her head at her daughter's antics. Jealous child.
"Ammi! I heard that" Ayaat crossed her eyebrows. Asad held his hand out to her seeing her pout; Ayaat got her knees side hugging her father. The three of them looked at him, his family; all he had to do was accept them as his own.

"Ammi!" Ahsaan whispered, Zoya shook her head with tears in her eyes. He hugged her instantly.

"He'll be mother's favourite!" Ayaan announced. "Like that one" He pointed towards Zuhair.

"Abbu is all mine though" Ayaat hugged Asad tighter.

"Abbu" Zain whispered at Asad, still in Zoya's embrace. Asad brushed his hand over his head kissing Ayaat's forehead. Ayaat smiled widely at him playing her eyebrows; Abbu is all mine. Ahsaan pulled away from the hug and wiped his tears away.

"Come here" Asad pulled him in for a hug. Zoya placed her head on Ahsaan's back and sighed.

Zain smiled at the sight in front of him, he walked around towards Dilshad and took her into his arms. Asad looked over at Zain holding his family in his arms; Zain met his calm, soft eyes. Everything was fine.

-----

"I don't want it. What the hell am I going to do with it?" Ayaat looked at the papers and threw it at Ahsaan. He picked it up and threw it back at her.

"You have it. I don't want it." Ahsaan shook his head. They both looked up at Asad who was pressing his temples in frustration; the twins were testing his patience. He froze hearing the silence, the last ten minutes he had spent listening to them fighting and throwing the piece of paper back and forth. Obviously they both didn't know the importance of the scrunched up document in their hands. He stared at the twins with stern eyes as they both sat on Ayaat's bed with their legs crossed evidently enjoying the sight before them. He exhaled sharply,

"Listen you two. Do you know what that is?"

"Yes of course" They replied in unison.

"What is it?"

"Your company shares" Ayaat replied with her rarest smile.

"And?" Asad talked to his girl who clearly turned into a baby to play with his heartstrings.

"You want to give it to us" She continued nodding along with him; I get it Abbu.

"We don't it!" Ahsaan told him.

"Why?" Asad asked finally giving up.

"Abbu" She fluttered her eyelashes. Zoya laughed from the door. "I don't know anything about that company, architecture is not my thing. That's why I want Ahsaan to have it but he doesn't want it. That's why I'm arguing. I don't want anything. I don't want any money" She pouted innocently.

"Aww, my selfless bacha" Asad sat down next to her, Zoya grumbled at his biasness. "Why don't you want it?"

"You've worked all your life for this. I don't know if I can do what you want me to. I'm going university I want to focus on my studies. That's why Ayaat should take it. For her security, I would want my sister to always be in a strong position in her life" Ahsaan explained.

"Wait wait, you think I won't do well and you want me to take it as a backup?" Ayaat questioned him; obviously she didn't hear anything he said let alone understand it. "Listen brother, I am clever. I will do well okay. I don't need this!" She grumbled, looking back up at her father. Ahsaan face-palmed himself.

"I give up!" Asad admitted defeat looking at Zoya. He grabbed the papers from the bed.

"Abbu, is there any chance I could have DZ Connect under my name?" Ayaat asked innocently, Asad turned around with wide eyes; not so selfless anymore. Zoya laughed shaking her head; she put her hands up and left them at it not wanting to be a part of their craziness.
"You know, just in case?" She dazzled her dimples.

"Stop doing that!" Ahsaan nudged her. Her tactical skills in emotionally blackmailing their Abbu amazed him.

"Doing what?" She asked him innocently. Asad shook his head and walked out of the room. Ayaat sighed staring at Ahsaan.

"What are you thinking about?" Ahsaan moved beside her and leaned against the headrest.

"Couple of months ago I didn't think I'll survive let alone go uni... and now in a couple of weeks, we'll both be starting uni" She looked at him before leaning against his arms, "She loves you bachu!" Ayaat whispered suddenly.

"How long have you known?" Ahsaan whispered back, brushing her head wrap.

"Sometime before you went to meet each other. Sofia is a beautiful girl, both inside and out. I know it'll be hard, but I have faith that she'll forgive you one day! I don't know about Ayaan Chachu though" Ayaat giggled. Ahsaan chuckled hearing her giggle; she was too adorable.

"There'll be no-one like Zain. Does Abbu know the truth?" Ahsaan moved away and looked at Ayaat. She breathed into her hands before slowly looking up at him.

"No" She whispered. "I want him to accept him without knowing about his truth." She sighed heavily.

"What will you do if he doesn't accept Zain?" Ahsaan asked sadly. He regretted asking her as he watched her eyes flash with a mixture of emotions; he jumped forward and embraced her tight. "Hey shhh, don't cry. I'm sorry! Everything will be fine. I hate seeing you cry, you don't look pretty when you cry." Ayaat looked at him and punched his stomach. He grunted holding his stomach before grabbing a pillow attacking her with it.

It has only been a week, but Ayaat had tried everything she could to make sure his absence for the last eighteen years was not felt. She showered him with love, helping him to forget his past and start a brighter future with her, and his family. A family that he had always yearned for. He enjoyed being someone's brother, someone's son, someone's grandchild, someone's nephew... he didn't replace Ayaat or take her share of love, he made a place for himself in everyone's hearts. Or else there would have been an earthquake like WW3 in Khan Villa; Ayaat's jealous side... is not a pretty sight. He had gotten his own nickname from Ayaan, they were already buddies. Ahsaan goes by the code name Romeo, the name Ayaan gave him the first time they met. One of the relationships he will treasure is his with Zain, if it wasn't for him, all this would not have been possible. Yes, no matter what happens, Ahsaan will forever remain Zain's saala and his closest friend.

-----

Zain took in a deep breath and knocked on the door. He was nervous no doubt; Asad had called him to come over. This place was his home; this is where he had spent the last eighteen years. Today, he came here as a guest. He didn't quite know how he felt or how he should feel. He really missed Ayaat, he had only seen Ayaat twice in the last week, how he wished he could have had her in front of his eyes every moment of the day, every day. Well at least he would be able to get a glance of her today he thought to himself. He smiled finding Zoya open the door, she took him into her arms and held him tight; her motherly touch always warmed his heart.

"Come inside beta" Zoya ushered him inside, Zain looked around the empty living room before sitting down. Everything seemed too quiet. He looked up hearing her door open and within seconds, she stepped out of the room. Her smile brightened up the room instantly, her eyes glistened seeing him in front of her. Ayaat was about to run towards him but froze seeing her father come down the stairs. They both stared at the floor trying to ignore each other.

"Zain?" Asad spoke behind. Zain shot to his feet and turned around,

"As salaamu alaikum" Zain greeted.

"Wa Alaikum As salaam. Have a seat." Asad walked around and took a seat opposite him. Zain's eyes remained glued to the floor. He looked up slowly trying to break the silence.

"Is everything okay?" Zain managed to choke out, his heart was beating frantically.

"Yes. I just wanted to discuss something important with you. I hope you didn't leave anything important behind" Asad said softly. Ayaat stared at both of them, their formality raised an awkward silence around them, she was finding it hard watching them sit there.

"Jee kahiye!" Zain looked at the floor waiting for him to talk. Zoya passed some documents over to Asad.

"Well... I know you got a place at NYU" Asad started, Ayaat's heart stopped beating for a moment. She wasn't going to like this. "Me and Zoya want you to go and continue your studies there. They're specialists in what you want to study and I want you to get the best of education. This is once in a lifetime opportunity and we do not want you to miss this opportunity." Asad was looking into Zain's eyes now. "We've sorted everything out for you, you decide whether you-"

"Thank you" Zain spoke with gratitude. "Thank you for thinking so much about me" He smiled at Asad. Ayaat stepped back feeling her heart sink, she tried real hard to keep her tears in. Her father wanted to send him away.

"So you'll be going?" Zoya asked quickly.

"Whatever you both decide will be in my best interests. I will go" Zain replied to Zoya. His eyes fell on Ayaat; he removed his eyes from her pale face to the floor.

"That's great. I have booked your tickets to go back to New York with Abbu. But he lives quite far from your university; we've sorted out an apartment for you. Abbu and my Aapi will be in touch with you regularly, they'll be over all the time and you can go stay whenever you like." Zoya explained.

"Are you okay with this?" Asad asked getting up, Zain too got up.

"Of course. Thank you" Zain smiled at him. Asad passed him the envelope. They remained silent for a few moments, with Zain staring at the envelope and Asad's gaze on Zain. Asad coughed to get his attention back to him. "I'll just take your leave!"

"Zain" Ayaat called from behind, he halted in his tracks. He turned around to find her pacing towards him. "Abbu... How... come?" Was all she managed to let out.

"NYU is the best option for him, their degrees will-" Asad looked into his daughter's eyes; she was going to burst no matter what he told her.

"But..." Ayaat whispered watching him come towards her. She looked at Zain.

No matter how distanced we are, whatever trials we face, one thing will never change... you only belong to me.

They stared at one another remembering their promises and their faith; they will give every test to be with each other. Today might not be their day, but one day, it will be. They are already one, and no matter what happens, they will remain so.

Zain pressed his eyes at her, reassuring her and comforting her. He shook his head in a no to stop her from crying. Ahsaan watched from the door; how can anyone separate these two lovers? Any person's heart will ache separating these two; their love is pure yet powerful.

"Okay" Ayaat whispered before looking at her father, she stepped forward and hugged him tight. Asad looked at Zoya who indicated with her head to talk to her. Asad shrugged his shoulders helplessly.

Ayaat couldn't watch him leave; she stepped away from the hug and headed for her room.

"Ayaat baby, listen to me. Me and your Ammi want to talk to you about something beta." Asad spoke behind her. Ayaat turned around and looked at him.

"Abbu can I talk to you later? I'm just really tired and I wanted to lie down." Zoya walked around and held Asad's arm. Zain gathered himself before turning around to leave.

"Can I come in?" Zain stumbled back seeing the woman at the door who was about to knock. Everyone turned around hearing her voice. Ahsaan's arm wrapped over Ayaat's shoulder trying to stop her from bursting into a cry.

"Chahat ji" Zain spoke shocked. He had completely forgotten about her. He tried so hard to contact her but she had disappeared the last month or so. He had left his number with the male nurse but he doesn't recall giving an address.

"I know you left me your number. But I wanted to do this face to face" Chahat spoke determined. Asad and Zoya exchanged looks; who was she?

"Thank you for coming. Let's go outside and we can discuss it further. I have a few questions" Zain stepped forward,

"I have to apologise to everyone here. I have wronged them too." Chahat gave Zoya a remorseful look.

"Who is she Zain?" Zoya asked from behind.

"Just someone who has some answers. This is not the right place Chahat ji; can we discuss this somewhere else?" Zain pleaded. Everyone was confused.

"No Zain. Everyone has a right to know. I want everyone to know the truth." Ayaat shouted from behind. Everyone's gaze moved towards her and then back to the woman; what the hell was going on?

"But I don't!" Zain told her but her expressions did not change.

"Would someone tell me what is going on?" Zoya barked worriedly.

"I have come to ask for your forgiveness..." Chahat walked towards Zoya holding her hands.

"For what?" Zoya whispered.

"For stealing something so precious to you. I'm sorry, I don't know why I did what I did. I erm I gave your son to Tanveer!" She cried falling to her knees in front of Zoya who stared at her with wide eyes. She pushed Asad back knowing he would lash out at her.

"You gave my son away to Tanveer?" Zoya repeated. Ahsaan tightened his hold on Ayaat.

"Please forgive. I cannot live with this guilt, I have committed a sin. My God will not forgive me. My children are suffering for the mistakes that I have committed." She held Zoya's knees. "Please forgive me, please punish me. I cannot live..." Chahat cried. Zoya closed her eyes and remained silent for a moment taking in everything Chahat was saying.

"I think Almighty is already punishing you Chahat. Haan, you have committed a mistake. But... I have my son back again. I have nothing against anyone." Zoya picked up a torn Chahat, "I forgive you, and I pray that Almighty removes all the pain from your life and showers you and your family with happiness" Zoya smiled. She was a woman herself, she understood Chahat's pain. She had suffered along with her all these years. Asad stared at Zoya's back in disbelief; he felt a sense of pride, his wife was one of those rare women God created to show everyone the real meaning of mercy and forgiveness. She forgave the woman that wronged her so easily. She suffered for 18 years because of this woman; there was not a night that didn't go by without Zoya calling out for her son. Chahat held her hands up at Zoya with tears streaming down her face. Zoya shook her head and wiped her tears before taking her into a hug.

"Never allow anyone to play with your conscience Chahat." Zoya advised, Chahat managed to nod in Zoya's hold. She looked towards Zain,

"I'm so sorry beta" Chahat apologised.

"Chahat ji. Please stop crying. You have nothing to be sorry for. I didn't want to see you cry. I'll drop you off, aap chali ye" Zain turned towards the door.

"Stop Zain!" Ayaat called from behind.

"Ayaat please." Zain whispered without turning around.

"Zain?" Chahat called from behind. He breathed out sharply before turning around slowly. "I know you know now. I know I should've told you everything that morning. I know you have a lot of questions for me... I don't know how to tell you," Her knees wavered; Zoya supported her to the sofa.

"Know what?" Zoya asked.

"He is not her child." Chahat pressed out her tears. Asad blinked at her.

"Who's child?" Asad questioned.

"Tanveer's!" Chahat said in one breath. "He thinks that he is Tanveer's child but he is not." Asad fell back against the sofa, Zoya fell from her knees on to the ground, she leaned against the sofa. It took her a moment to register whatever she had just heard. Ayaat sighed against Ahsaan's chest staring at her father's shocked state.

"Aunty. The reason Zain wanted to meet you was to know about his past, about his Ammi" Ayaat told her watching Zain lean back against the wall and close his eyes.

"Zain knew?" Zoya asked breaking out of her trance. "He isn't Tanveer's child... then what, Tanveer was pregnant, I mean how?" She was shocked beyond words. She looked at Ayaat questioningly realising she knew as well.

"Tanveer's child was born dead" Chahat told her...

The hospital corridors were filled with shrieks and desperate cries of mother's to be as they were pushed across the corridors into the theatres for delivery. Every delivery was special. This specific day, there was an extra special delivery in Bhopal Emergency Centre. It was the day an Aslam Khalil was born.

"Ammi, you are there right? Please stay with me. Ammi!" Latifa Aslam Khalil was rushed down the same hospital corridor that had delivered millions of other babies before this. Yet, like others, this delivery was going to be extra special; another child was going to be born.

"Almighty, please protect my daughter!" An elderly lady held her hands up in the air with tears in her eyes. "Please protect her, you have taken everything away from us, please protect this child" She prayed earnestly.

"Mrs Khalil, press this" The nurse held an object in front of her to squeeze to ease her pain and indicate her level of pain. Latifa moved her hands in the air trying to reach for the object the nurse asked her to hold but she couldn't find it. She grunted in pain.

"Mrs Khalil has lost her eyesight, she is blind!" Another nurse told her. The nurse holding up the object grabbed hold of Latifa's hand against her chest before placing the object into her hand. She held in her emotions trying to support her in every way possible.

"Major Saab!!!" Latifa screamed holding onto the bed, the contractions were slow but her pain was shooting off the pain scale. "Major Saab!!" Latifa called out again and again repeatedly despite being out of breath. Her mother held her hands up in the air being able to hear her calls.

"Aunty, would you like to come inside?" One of the nurses asked the elderly woman.

"No beta, I'll stay here. She'll call me when she needs me and I'll be by her side. No-one can comfort her except the Almighty!" The elderly woman smiled at the nurse before chanting her prayers.

"Who's Major Saab?" The nurse asked out of curiosity placing a cup of water next to her.

"Her husband..." The lady answered.

"Where is he?" The nurse asked quickly.

"He passed away 6 months ago. Lieutenant General Ibrahim Aslam Khalil, the pride of our nation was killed in action." She spoke with pride; her son was an honourable man. "My son. My grandchild will be the son of a martyr, honest and noble just like his father, loving and caring like his mother." She spoke with tears in her eyes. "Latifa calls him Major Saab, not just out of respect but her love was above anything else. He could never get her to call him by his name." She smiled sadly.

"This child really will be special. His parents are extraordinary" The nurse smiled placing her hand on her shoulder.

"Latifa is special. The respect he had for her was beyond anything imaginable. He didn't consider his job as worthy. Despite being blind, she was the perfect daughter, perfect daughter in law and the perfect wife. He was so happy when he found out she was pregnant but he was posted in an emergency." The woman sighed.

-

"There's an emergency case in ward 9 Saniya" Shouted Chahat from the corridor, she had stopped passing by an elderly woman and listened as she spoke about her daughter in law and her late son.

"I'll just be back" Saniya comforted the old lady rushing towards the ward. Chahat sighed before running towards the next ward having been beeped a few times.

"What happened doctor?" Chahat asked worriedly.

"Patient number 234- Miss Ahmed needs your attention. Is it possible you could take care of her? She needs to be monitored. PND. I must rush; the other wards are really busy. But I don't want to leave her unattended." The doctor asked feeling helpless. Chahat agreed knowing that everyone was going crazy in this department today; it was mad busy.

"Btw doctor, the delivery next door is really special." Chahat smiled remembering the old lady's words, "She's a strong woman, you can't tell she has lost her eyesight" Chahat prayed for the woman.

"I know nurse. She is. She's my patient. I'm going to rush now, I must attend to her. If you need anything else, page Dr Ghosh." The doctor paced out of the room.

"How are you feeling?" Chahat asked the patient who was rocking back and forth like a mental patient. She brushed her hair back but the woman grabbed her wrist, "Ouch! Let go, argh, what is wrong with you?" Chahat tried to remove her grip.

"You need to help me!" Tanveer looked with wide eyes; her fierce looks sent cold shivers down her spine.

"My financial condition was really bad. My children and everything... I gave in" Chahat cried into her hands. Zoya blinked at her trying to digest her words. Asad felt his throat go dry as he tried to listen to the woman in front of him. What kind of games had life played with him? He looked to his right to find Zain standing against the wall; he was so still you couldn't tell whether he was breathing. His wide eyes remained on Chahat's back.

Ayaat's uncontrolled sobs broke everyone's trance; she was deeply hurt by what Chahat told them. She calmed herself before stepping forward towards Chahat; with only one question running through her mind, one question she knew her Zain wanted the most right this moment. Not why she did it, not whether she regretted it, nor how she did it.

"Do you know the whereabouts of Aunty Latifa or her mother?" Ayaat asked trying to keep her voice normal. Her chest shook every now and then as her heart felt like it was bleeding; she couldn't imagine what Zain was going through. She met his teary eyes and nodded. She looked down hearing Chahat sigh heavily.

"That's what I had gone to find out. Fatiha Aunty passed away 16 years ago." Chahat took a long pause. Ayaat stared at her with wide eyes for what was about to come. Her eyes went over Zain's fisted hands against the wall, his body tensed, his bloodshot eyes as wide as it can go.
"Latifa passed away a few years back." Everyone's eyes shot towards Zain who fell against the floor with a loud thud. No-one moved in shock, only Ayaat rushed towards him. She fell onto her knees wincing gliding towards him taking his face into her hands. She felt drops of tears fall onto her hand, only a few drops, she counted them before picking his face up to look at her. She stared into his eyes, both holding each other captive, supporting and comforting each other in silence. She caressed his face brushing his hair back.

"You have grown up to be honest and noble like your father. You are loving and caring just like your mother." Her thumb brushed his tears away effortlessly, holding onto his eyes, she kissed his forehead. "Your parents are extraordinary Zain; they will always remain in your heart. Despite everything, you proved to be your parent's child. Wherever they are, they are proud of you, for the man you have become. Enough tests Zain, enough is enough. You have nothing to prove to anyone. You are justice itself." She whispered into his ears, he knew what she was referring to. "I love you so much Zain, but today my respect for you has surpassed all limits. Not because I know about your parents, but because, you are you!" Ayaat smiled, her words were powerful and impactful to ears witness to this confession. He pulled her in for a hug holding her against his chest. He pressed out his tears, finding solace having her in his arms. He had no family in this world, but Ayaat was his everything. With her by his side, he didn't feel alone. He sent a prayer above to the Almighty for his parents and for Ayaat. Zain slowly opened his eyes and let go of Ayaat, in other circumstances she would complain about him letting her go, but she let go willingly knowing that she had to. Zain met Ahsaan's eyes who saluted him before winking; that little moment warmed his heart. He didn't hold bitterness for anyone, yes he was upset that he couldn't meet his parents, but he didn't hate Chahat. The Almighty was generous dropping him into the arms of Dilshad Khan who had brought him up like a mother. He had no regrets. Ayaat picked him up and helped Zain walk towards Chahat. Chahat couldn't meet his eyes.

"It's okay." Zain whispered picking her up. He placed a soft kiss on her forehead. Zoya pulled him into a hug caressing his head continuously whispering comforting words into his ears.

"You are my son" Zoya declared. "My son" She said proudly. "You are just like your father, and I know he will be damn proud of you. You are a gentleman; your heart is made of gold. Your mother's values runs through your veins and Ammi's upbringing. You are a sweetheart!" Zoya pulled his cheeks making him smile.

"Thank you for coming Chahat Ji. It means a lot! I'll drop you off" Zain offered suddenly feeling rejuvenated.

"You must eat something before you go" Ayaat asked wiping her tears. Zain and her mother, she would never meet anyone as forgiving as them.

"Nahi beta. Your forgiveness means the world to me though I'll never be able to forgive myself for what I have done." Chahat wiped her tears. "My husband is outside beta. I'll be fine. I've written my number down, if you ever need me, I'll be just a phone call away. I know you might not want to see my face after today, I will repent till the day I die maybe then I may be able to face my God" She passed him a piece of paper.

"It's nothing like that. Don't be so harsh on yourself. If you ever need me, you know what do." Zain hugged her. Ayaat watched him with looks of admiration. It takes a big heart to forgive, but it takes even a bigger heart to start afresh with the person who wronged you. The difference between Chahat and Tanveer was repentance. Some people change, some people don't, although all get punished for what they have done. Chahat had gotten her punishment; her true repentance reached the hearts of those she wronged.

"I pray that God grants you the world's happiness beta." Chahat caressed his face before holding her hands up at everyone. "Namaste!" She saluted Zain before walking out of there as everyone watched her retreating figure.

Dilshad who was listening to everything from the staircase came down and walked towards Zain. She caressed his face with a smile on her face, no tears, just a smile. She embraced him with her arms still smiling at everyone, her eyes fell on Asad; he won all the battles Asad, he won. Asad nodded back at her staring at Zain's back.

-----

"Go in there!" Zoya pushed Asad.

"Stop pushing me. I'm nervous" Asad complained. Zoya shook her head.

"Jahapana six packs, who is scared of nothing, is actually scared of talking to his daughter today?" Zoya teased, "Asad, she won't eat you" She pushed him again.

"She's angry at me" Asad pouted.

"No she isn't. She's just upset slightly. You're sending HER Zain to New York and you haven't even told her the best bit yet!" Zoya smiled, Asad pushed her hand away irritatingly.

"She's only mine okay?" The jealous father knocked on his daughter's door before opening it. He sighed finding her sat on the floor against her bed flipping through fashion magazines. He walked in slowly and settled beside her, she looked up at him and smiled.

"Hey, what's up?" Ayaat closed the magazine; she stared at him in anticipation, waiting for him to speak; she could easily read his face.

"Just wanted to see what you're doing" Asad caressed her forehead pulling her head wrap down slightly.

"I wish my hair would grow back quickly!" Ayaat frowned.

"Don't worry, it will" He smiled assuring her. He looked to his side to find Zoya giving him the eyes. He blanked her and concentrated on his daughter. Ahsaan joined Zoya's side seeing her suspiciously standing near Ayaat's door.
"Errm baby?" Asad mumbled.

"Hmm Abbu?" Ayaat smiled. She watched him take an envelope out of his pockets before staring at it.

"Your results were brilliant Ayaat." He started. Ayaat whispered a soft thank you. "I er well, me and your Ammi have been thinking for quite some time now. We think it will be the best thing for you. A fresh start." Asad needed courage to break this news to her. The news was a pleasant one; he still needed strength to accept that he was even thinking of something so outrageous.

"What is it Abbu, is everything okay?" Ayaat asked worriedly.

"Everything is fine baby. I'll let you have a look for yourself" He passed her the envelope. Ahsaan looked at Zoya; she shook her head asking him to wait till she sees it. Realising what it was before Ayaat, Ahsaan poked his mother's arm. She pretended to hit his hand away; You're separating me from my twin?

Zoya: Do you want to go with her?

Ahsaan: Ermm, no, I want to stay with my mother.

Zoya smiled cuddling in his arms. They both heard Ayaat gasp opening the letter.

"WHAT?" Ayaat's mouth fell open. "What is this?" She looked at her father.

"NYU. I've gotten you admission for you to complete your degree there." Asad explained it to her. Ayaat knew what it was; she just wanted to hear it from his mouth.

"You serious?!" Ayaat squealed getting onto her knees. He nodded at her chuckling seeing the excitement on her face taking him into a bone crushing hug, except Asad was the one crushing her in his arms holding her tightly as tightly as possible; How was he going stay without her? How will he let her go? She pulled back and frowned, his fingers brushed her cheek,

"What happened baby?" He asked worried, "Are you not happy?"

"How will I stay without you Abbu?" Her eyes filled up. She sat back against the bed staring at the papers in front of her.

"You won't be alone" He whispered to her feeling his eyes well up along with her. She rested her head on his shoulders, his arms wrapped around her. They both stared at the space in front of them. Zain was going to be with her, she was in safe hands Asad assured himself. No, he hadn't accepted their "relationship"; I mean which jealous, overprotective father would? Even if he did, he'd never admit it to himself. But he knew Zain would take care of her, and her happiness lies with Zain. His happiness was in her happiness. This was the best gift he could ever give her. As for their relationship... Well he'll get to that later. For now, he needed to somehow hold himself together, he was going to let her go and let her explore the world out there, without him by her side. But spiritually, he'll always remain with her. A few months ago, he didn't know whether he'll be able to see this day for her. He felt content knowing that her future was bright; she was going to achieve great things. She needed to be away from here, to get rid of her bitter memories, start afresh; enter the next chapter of her life with only happy memories, without cancer. He didn't want to be someone who was holding his daughter back, creating a ruckus in her life, he didn't want to be reason behind her tears, he didn't want to be the person coming in between her and her happiness. Instead, He chose to be her father.

"I love you Abbu"

Yes. He was her Abbu. And he'll always remain her Abbu.

"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..."

He was a son, he was a husband, he was an uncle, he was a friend but the best feeling was being a father. He could very well be his son's hero, or his wife's Jahapana. But for his daughter, he'll always remain her first love.

He might sometimes forget that. But she will always remind him that when her prince charming comes into her life and wants to takes her away, he'll be the one she needs the most, while she may let go of his hand, but he will always hold her heart forever.

<3

OMG Firstly excuse me will I go fan girl and cry at the same time ( is jumping up and down while crying at the same time)... (Wipes tears) I'm back now