Asya Story: Dillon Ka Bandhan Thread II Chapter 23 Page 50 9/1/17 - Page 14

Chapter 19

Zoya felt the life stuck out of her with each passing second as the police took them to the hospital. Tears kept streaming down her cheeks. "Allah miyan, you can't do this to me. Please keep Asad safe," she kept chanting. Dilshad tried to console Zoya but she herself was horrified with the news of her son's accident that she didn't know what to tell Zoya. Reaching the hospital, they rushed inside to find the doctor. "Asad kaise hai? Woh theek hai right? Kya main unse milsakthi hoon?" Zoya asked. "Ek minute, aap patient keh...," the doctor replied. "Main unki biwi hoon, can you just tell me how my husband is?" Zoya yelled. "I am sorry Mrs. Khan, Mr. Asad ka bahut khoon beha gaya hai, hume surgery karni padegi," the doctor told her. "Surgery?" Zoya said shocked. "Ya mere khuda," Dilshad said with a gasp. "Aap please jaldi paise jama kardijiye, hume jaldi surgery karni padegi," the doctor said. "Don't worry about the money, please Asad koh theek kardijiye, please doctor," Zoya pleaded. "We will do our best, aap pray kijiye," the doctor said. "Kya main unne dekh sakthi hoon?" Zoya asked. "I am sorry, we have to take him up to surgery. Aap unse baad mein milsakthi hai," the doctor said. "Nurse, take Mrs. Khan and have her sign the papers," the doctor added. "Ammi, main aati hoon," Zoya told Dilshad and went with the nurse. The nurse handed a few forms that she needed to fill and sign. Zoya filled out everything that she had to but when she had to sign the consent for surgery, she felt her hand shiver in fear. She was scared, scared of losing him. Zoya felt someone place a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see a teary Dilshad, "Allah keh baroose sign kardo beta," she said. "Mujhe dar lagraha hai Ammi," Zoya said honestly. "Mera Asad bahut bahadoor hai Zoya, woh khabhi haar nahi maanta. Tum fikar mat karo, Asad bilkul theek hojayega," Dilshad said confidently. Zoya nodded and signed the papers, and handed the paper to the nurse as she said a silent prayer. "Ammi, main ghar jaakar paise laati hoon, hospital mein pay karna hai," she told Dilshad. "Par Zoya, iss waqt akele. Main bhi chalthi hoon," Dilshad suggested. "Nahi Ammi, aap yehi rahiye. Agar doctors kuch bhi bole, mujhe phone kariye please," Zoya said. "Theek hai beta, apna khayal rakna," Dilshad replied, caressing Zoya's cheek. Zoya nodded and left from there.

Due to the weather, Zoya was having a hard time finding a taxi to get her home. "I was so stupid. Mujhe apni car mein hospital aana tha, police toh chali gayi aur yaha par kohi taxi bhi nahi mil rahi hai," she cursed. The rain was pouring and the wind gusted at more than 40 miles an hour but Zoya didn't care. All she could think about was Asad and that she had to get the money so she could pay for the operation. Zoya started walking, not caring about anything or anyone, including herself. She reached home completely wet, shivering from the cold wind. Zoya had been trying to keep it together at the hospital in front of Dilshad but truth was she was terrified. Nobody had told her about him, she didn't know how he was. She wanted to see him to know that he was alright. Zoya fell to the ground as her tears explained the agony that her heart was going through. "Allah miyan, please Asad ka khayal rakiye. Paata nahi kyun unne khone ka sooch kar mera dil tham sa jaata hai. Main jaanti hoon keh maine aapse bahut complaint ki hai woh akdu hai acche nahi hai but I take it all back. Please!" she cried, as her hands came together in plea in front of her almighty. She recalled that she had to take the money and return to the hospital. Composing herself, Zoya went to her room. Changing into some dry clothes and taking the money she needed, she left for the hospital. Reaching there, she paid the bills needed and found Dilshad in the waiting room. "Ammi...doctors ne kuch kaha. Asad kaise hai?" she asked. "Nahi beta, woh log abhi bhi operation room mein hai. Kuch bol bhi nahi rahe hai," Dilshad said, worried. Zoya closed her eyes trying not to break down in front of Dilshad. "Aap baitiye, kuch nahi hoga Asad koh. Aapne bola tha right keh woh bahut strong hai. Allah miyan unne jaldi theek kardenge," Zoya consoled. "Zoya, hume Najma koh phone karna chahiye," Dilshad said. "Par Ammi, Najma ki tabeyat toh already theek nahi rehti. Hum abhi usse nahi baata the hai," Zoya said, unsure. Dilshad debated and agreed with Zoya that it was better that they didn't inform Najma. A while later, the doctor walked out of the operation room and both the ladies hurried up to him. "Doctor, Asad," Zoya said. "Operation went well. But we have to wait for Mr. Khan to wake up," the doctor replied. "Matlab?" Zoya questioned, confused. "It is very important that Asad agle paanch ghanton mein jaag jaaye. Warna complications badh sakthi hai," the doctor replied as Zoya and Dilshad looked on shocked. "Aisa mat kahiye doctor, Asad zaroor utenge," Zoya said hopefully. "InshAllah," Dilshad added. "I will keep checking on him," the doctor informed. "Kya hum mil sakthe hai Asad se?" Dilshad asked. "Thodi dher mein Asad koh room mein shift kardenge phir aap log unne dekh sakthe hai," the doctor replied. "Thank you doctor," Zoya stated as the doctor left.

After the nurse shifted Asad to his room, the ladies were informed that they could go see him. They both walked in and felt the air suck out of them. A gasp escaped Zoya's lips. There he lay looking so weak. He had a bandage across his head and a cast on his right arm. His hand was receiving glucose and blood. Tears flew down both their cheeks seeing him. Dilshad couldn't see her son this way. She has always seen him so strong and as a pillar of strength. Seeing her son, Dilshad felt her heart bleeding with pain. She felt her eyes fill with tears as she placed her hand on his head. Dilshad told Zoya that she was going to pray and excused herself. Zoya took a seat on the chair next to the bed. She took his hand in his which felt so delicate. "I am sorry Asad, I am really sorry for everything. Main jaanti hoon main bahut bolti hoon, aur messy se khati hoon. Aur aap jaise traditional ladki chathe the main waisi bilkul bhi nahi hoon. But Asad, main puri kosish karongi keh main aapko thaang na karo," Zoya cried. "Aap uth jayiye na please, aap chahe toh mujhpar chilaye, darth dijiye, main kuch nahi kahongi. Par main aapko aise nahi dekh sakthi. Aapko agar kuch hogaya toh Najma, Ammi, aur mera kya hoga? Hum teeno koh aapki bahut zaroorat hai, Just wake up," she pleaded. Hours passed and the two ladies kept praying. Dilshad was reading namaz in the waiting room whereas Zoya sat next to Asad reading duas. It was almost dawn when Dilshad returned to check on Asad. Zoya silently nodded her head negatively telling her that he hadn't woken up. As they waited, Zoya felt his hand move on top of hers. "Ammi, Asad ka haath," she said. Dilshad stepped closer and called his name. "Asad, aankhe kholiye na, please utiye," Zoya requested. Asad could hear her voice calling to him. He wanted to open his eyes but they felt so heavy. His head was pounding like someone was hammering on it. He felt jolting pain run through his whole body. Dilshad quickly went outside and got the doctor. Slowly Zoya saw him open his eyes and felt her heart starting to beat again. "Aap log bahar rahiye, let us check him," the doctor said. Zoya and Dilshad stepped out of the room. "Woh theek hogaye Ammi," Zoya said happily as she pulled Dilshad into a hug. Dilshad too smiled, wrapping her arms around Zoya. "Allah ka lakh lakh shukur hai keh humari dua qubool hogayi," Dilshad said. At that moment, the doctor stepped out of the room and came up to them. "Doctor, aabh Asad kaisa hai?" dilshad asked. "Yeh bahut acchi baat hai keh Asad koh hosh aagaya hai but he needs complete rest. His body is still in shock and he needs to recover from that," the doctor replied. "Aap fikar mat kijiye doctor, main pura khayal rakongi," Zoya assured. "Aap log unse mil sakthe hai," the doctor told them and left.

She opened the door and ran inside, straight into his arms. "Paata hai kitna dar gayi thi main, theek se gaadi nahi chala sakthe the aap. Kitni chot lagi hai aapko," Zoya kept blabbering. Asad and Dilshad smiled at her. "Mujhe chot lagi hai aur tum mujhpar hi chila rahi hoon," Asad said, and Dilshad chuckled. Zoya realized her mistake and broke apart from him. "I am sorry, aabh aap kaisa feel karahe hai?" she asked, worried. "Main theek hoon, bas thoda sir mein dard horaha hai," he told her. "Main doctor koh bolo, main abhi unne bhula keh aati hoon," Zoya said. "Zoya, maine doctor koh already bola hai. Its ok," Asad replied. "Saach mein theek hai right?" she confirmed. "Ammi, aap hi boliye. Paata nahi Zoya itna overreact kyun karahi hai," Asad teased. "Chup raho tum! Bichari bacchi saari raat jaag rahi thi yaha tumare saath baiti thi. Aur itni buri baarish mein tumare liye ghar keh chakkar laaga rahi thi," Dilshad scolded her son. Asad looked at his wife who was feeling embarrassed at the moment. "Ammi, rehne deh. Aisa kuch nahi hai," Zoya said. "Accha Zoya, tum thodi dher ghar jao aur araam karlo. Puri raat jaagi ho," Dilshad stated. "Nahi Ammi, aap chale jayiye. Thodi dher araam karna aur mere liye kuch kapde ladijiye, main yehi change karlongi," Zoya replied. "Lekin Zoya," Dilshad started when Zoya intervened, "Ammi, saach mein main bilkul theek hoon. Aap jayiye," she said. Dilshad stayed with Asad for a little bit and then left as planned.

After a little while, Asad had woke up to find his wife in his favorite form, she was in deep sleep with her head on the bed next to him while sitting in the car. He smiled looking at her as his uninjured hand caressed her cheek. Instantly, Asad realized that she was burning up. "Isse toh bhukar hai," he thought concerned. Asad tried to wake her up but she was too tired. He called the nurse and told her to get some medicines for Zoya. The doctor came and checked her and gave her an injection as her temperature was too high. Time passed and Asad kept checking her temperature. Zoya woke up and found the bed empty. "Asad, kaha chale gaye," she thought scared. Zoya ran out of the room. Each second that he wasn't in front of her eyes, she felt her heart sink. Finding one of the nurses, "Mere husband Asad kaha hai? Thodi dher phele toh room mein the?" she asked. "Mam, aapke husband koh CT scan kehliye le gaye hai. Don't worry," the nurse told her. Zoya took a breath of relief. He was alright, nothing happened, she calmed herself down. She felt someone's hand on her shoulder and jumped in surprise. "Zoya, main hoon beta," Dilshad said. "Sorry Ammi, woh bas Asad keh baare mein sooch rahi thi toh thoda chowk gayi thi," Zoya told her. "Asad theek haina?" Dilshad said, nervous. "Jee Ammi, unne kuch tests kehliye lekar gaye hai," Zoya said and the ladies returned to the room. Soon, Asad came back from the tests. "Ammi, aap Zoya koh ghar lekar jayiye," he said. "Kyun?" Zoya questioned. "Kyun ki aapko bhukar hai," Asad replied. "bhukar?" Zoya said, surprised. "Nahi Asad, main bilkul theek hoon," she added. Dilshad came closer to her and checked her forehead. "Tum theek issliye ho kyun ki maine tume doctor se check karwaya tha. Zoya, tum ghar jao aur araam karlo," Asad told her. "Par mujhe yaha rehna hai," she said. "Mujhe kuch nahi sunna, tum ghar jao aur araam karo," he firmly stated. Zoya pouted as she looked at Dilshad for help. "Asad theek bol raha hai beta. Tum ghar jao aur aaram karlo phir aajana. Tabh tak main yaha hoon, tum iski fikar na karo," Dilshad said. Zoya had no choice but to agree to go home. "Par raat koh main wapaas aajaungi. Aur aapke saath rokungi," she said, stubbornly. Asad nodded with a smile. As she walked out of the door, "pagal hai bilkul," he thought as a chuckle escaped his lips.

Zoya went home and tried to rest for a while. Each time she closed her eyes, all she saw was her unconscious husband. And that scared her. Soon however, the tiredness from the previous day overtook her and she fell into deep slumber. Hours later, when she woke up, the room was pitch black. She took a shower to freshen up and changed into something comfortable. Zoya then made something for dinner, packed some for Asad and her and left for the hospital. Reaching there, Zoya saw Dilshad sitting on the chair reading her book while Asad was asleep. "Sorry Ammi, dher hogayi. Paata nahi kaise itni dher tak sohgayi main," Zoya apologized. "Kohi baat nahi beta. Aabh tumari tabeyat kaisi hai?" Dilshad asked. "Main theek hoon Ammi. Aabh aap ghar chale jayiye aur thoda rest karlijiye. Subhe aajana," Zoya suggested. "Mujhe ghar par dil nahi lagega beta, tumari aur Asad keh bina," Dilshad said, looking at her son. "Ammi, Allah ne Asad koh theek se utadiya na, toh aabh bahut jald bilkul theek hojayenge. Aap fikar na kare," Zoya said, hugging her. They broke apart and smiled at each other. "Asad ne lunch kiya tha?" Zoya wondered. "Ha khaliya tha. Tum usse utakar kuch khila doh, bahut time hogaya hai," Dilshad suggested. "Jee Ammi," Zoya replied. Dilshad went to Asad, recited some duas and placed a kiss on his head. After Dilshad left, Zoya waited for Asad to wake up but due to the medicines, he was still sleeping. When he heard his name being called, Asad sleephisly opened his eyes to see his beautiful wife standing in front of him. "Mr. Husband, uth jayiye! Aapko dinner nahi khana, bahut meinat se banaya hai maine," she teased with a smile. Zoya moved closer and helped him sit up properly. She opened the box of soup she had made and dipped the spoon in it. Asad wanted to eat by himself but he knew that wasn't possible with his casted arm. "Abhi thodi din lagenge tabh tak I am afraid you are stuck with me," she said making him smile. Zoya bought the soup closer to his lips and he took a sip. "Hmmm, that's good," he told her. "Saach? Maine online recipe dekhar banaya tha," Zoya replied excitedly. After feeding him the soup, Zoya took a seat on the sofa to eat her own dinner. Asad silently sat there watching his wife antics. "Main khabhi bore nahi hoti Mr. Khan," he recalled her words as a smile crept up on her lips. "No wonder she doesn't," Asad thought.

Two days later, Asad was discharged from the hospital. Dilshad and Zoya helped Asad get to the bed and made him comfortable. Dilshad had finally informed Najma about Asad's accident. Najma was really upset that Dilshad and Zoya had hidden this from her. She had came rushing home to meet Asad. "Aap logo ne baataya kyun nahi?" Najma asked, troubled. "I am sorry Najma, main tume pareshaan nahi karna chathi thi. Tumari tabeyat..," Zoya said, unsure as her eyes wandered towards Imran, who seemed to be here just for the sake of it. "Meri tabeyat itni bhi karaab nahi hai keh main apne Bhaijaan se nahi mil sakoon," Najma said, angry. "I am really sorry," Zoya told her. Najma just shrugged her shoulders and left the living room to go see Asad. As Imran followed her out, Zoya looked at Dilshad for help. "Don't worry beta, woh bas thoda gussa hai since humne usse baataya nahi," she explained. "But, we were thinking about her," Zoya sulked. "I know, chalo," Dilshad said. "Aap jayiye, main Asad kehliye fruits laati hoon and sabh kehliye chai bhi," she said. Zoya walked into the kitchen and cut some fruits for Asad, and made tea for everyone else. She came into the room to see everyone chatting away. Zoya was glad that Najma was being her normal self with Asad though she was disappointed with her. She served everyone tea and helped Asad eat the fruits. Zoya then gave him his medicines and took a seat next to him. After some time, Najma and Imran were about to leave. "Tum kuch din yehi kyun nahi rehti beta?" Dilshad proposed. "Idea accha hai! Ruk jao na," Zoya requested looking at her friend. Najma though was wasn't sure if she should stay. She knew that if stayed here then her husband and mother-in-law would expect her family to give them money and gifts. Or her husband might leave her here forever, she thought scared. "Nahi Ammi, aaj nahi hoga. Phir khabhi aajaungi," Najma refused. "Kyun Najma, Ammi itna bol rahi hai toh ruk jayiye na," Imran said. "Aaj nahi phir khabhi ruk jaungi," she firmly stated. "Theek hai, apna khayal rakna," Dilshad said as she caressed her daughter's cheek. Najma bid her goodbyes as she hugged her family. As she came up to Zoya, "I am sorry again Najma. I didn't want to hurt you, mujhe bas tumari fikar horahi thi," she told her. "It's okay Zoya, I am sorry keh maine aap par gussa hogayi. Woh bas Bhaijaan keh accident keh baare mein sunkar main dar gayi thi," Najma said. "I understand but don't worry, tumare bhaijaan bilkul theek hai. Aur main unka pura khayal rakongi," Zoya said smilingly. Najma nodded knowingly and the ladies pulled each other in an embrace.

The next morning, Dilshad was walking down the stairs to go to the kitchen so she could make her morning coffee when she saw Zoya going towards the main door. "Zoya, itni subhe kaha jarahi ho beta," she asked. "Good morning Ammi, accha hai aap mil gayi, mujhe laaga keh aap soh rahe honge. Main darga jarahi thi uske baad main office jaane ka sooch rahi thi. I mean it's been three days and office mein log nahi jaante keh Asad hi mere shohar hai toh," Zoya explained, a little tensed about how Dilshad would react that she was leaving Asad alone at home in this situation. Dilshad smiled, "tum fikar mat karo, main hoon na yaha. Theek se jaana aur drive safe," she replied. Zoya grinned, "thank you Ammi, you are the best," she announced pulling Dilshad in a hug. Dilshad giggled at her words as she hugged her back. Reaching the dargah, Zoya pulled the dupatta over her head and walked in. Kneeling down, she felt her eyes moisten recalling the events of the past few days. "Thank you so much Allah miyan. Aapne mere Asad koh theek kardiye. Uss raat main itni dar gayi thi, aisa ehsaas mujhe khabhi nahi hua hai. Mujhe aisa lagraha tha keh meri sans nikal thi jarahi thi jab main Asad koh behosh dekha. Ajeeb haina Allah, jis insaan se main kuch meino phele itni nafrat karti thi, aaj wohi insaan mere liye itne important hai. Paata nahi kabh aur kaise but main Asad se mohabbat...," she stopped as a gasp escaped her lips. Did she just say love? No...can't be! How can she love him? They hate each other...well hated each other and now they are trying to be friends. Then how can she love him? She didn't even know what love was, she thought bewildered. "Main Asad se mohabbat karti hoon?" she questioned herself. "Nahi, aisa kaise hosaktha? I am still trying to understand him and know him," her brain contemplated. "Allah, aapko meri hi life milti hai complicate karne kehliye," she huffed as she got up from the floor. Zoya was in her own world trying to understand what she had just admitted to herself in this holy place. Just then one of the peer baba walked up to her. "Chinta mat kar beti...apni dil ki baat sunna kyun ki wohi Allah ka dikaya hua raasta hai," he told her. Zoya just looked at him confused trying to understand his words. She saw him walk away and stood there. "Yeh Mr. Khan na main jitni pagal hoon, usse aur zyada pagal kardenge," she said and walked out.

Asad felt his head hurt as he woke up that morning. His eyes searched for his wife but the room was empty. "Zoya," he called, assuming she was in the bathroom. When he received no response, Asad called for her again. He saw the door open and his mother walked in, and greeted him. "Good morning Ammi, Zoya kaha hai?" Asad asked. "Zoya toh subhe hi nikal gayi beta. Bol rahi thi keh dargah jaana hai aur phir office bhi," Dilshad informed. "Zoya akeli gayi hai, aapne usse jaane kyun diya Ammi?" he said, bothered. Dilshad smiled at his concern for his wife. "Zoya bacchi thodi na hai Asad. Aur car lekar gayi hai, tum fikar mat karo," she comforted. "Aur office kyun gayi hai? Aap mujhe mera phone dehna please," he asked. Dilshad nodded as she walked to the sofa, picked up his phone and gave it to him. "Tum Zoya se baat karlo, phir main aakar tume ready hone mein help karti hoon," Dilshad told him and left. On the other hand, Zoya parked her car and was heading into office when her phone rang. She saw the name on the screen and smiled. "Good morning!" Zoya said cheerfully. "Tum mujhe chodke kyun chali gayi?" he asked, annoyed. "Asad, main sirf office aayi hoon for some time and you are behaving as if paata nahi main kaha chali gayi," she replied with a chuckle. "It's not funny!" Asad fumed. Zoya was confused at his reaction. "Aap rest kariye, main jaldi wapaas aajaungi," she told him. "Fine," he whined and hung up on her. Zoya looked at her phone as a smile crept up on her lips. Was he missing her? She hoped. "Wah wah, aaj subhe subhe kitna haseen nazara mil raha hai," Zoya heard someone say and her smile faltered as she looked up, to see the person she dreaded the most in front of her. "Tum office mein kaam bhi karte ho ya ladkiyon keh saath batameezi karna hi tumara kaam hai?" Zoya said, frustrated. "Kya Zoya, teen dino baad aayi ho aur itna gussa? And by the way, Mr. Khan bhi pichle teen dino se office nahi aaye hai. Sunna hai accident hua hai, saach hai ya nahi...yeh toh mujhe nahi paata. Shayad tume paata ho," Vijay offered his input. "Mr. Khan ka accident hua hai toh tum unki family se kisiko poochlo, mujhe nahi paata. Now, if you don't mind, get out of my way," Zoya firmly stated. Vijay gave his wicked smile and moved out of her way. Zoya walked as fast as she could from there and reached her cabin. "Yeh Vijay toh peeche hi padgaya hai, kuch karna padega. Asad koh batao? Abhi kaise? No, I can't do that! I will just wait till he is better, phir toh main baata dungi. I can't deal with this any longer," she decided as she took a seat. Zoya took a deep breath. "Right now, I need to focus. I need to find that person who is invading our company," she thought as her hands started their work.

That evening, Zoya returned from work and found her husband struggling with his shirt. "Asad, yeh aap kya karahe hai?" she asked, as she quickly placed her purse and files on the couch and ran up to him. "Shirt nikaal raha hoon," Zoya heard his muffled reply, with his head stuck in the shirt. She smiled at his childishness as she stepped closer. Zoya felt her heart skip a beat, seeing his perfectly toned, greek god like body. She felt her throat go dry as her tongue brushed over her lips trying to relieve the aridity. "Zoya, help karo na," Asad said and she snapped out of her trance. "Yeah, sorry," she said as she helped him remove the shirt. "Aap koh kurta pehena hai?" Zoya asked. "Yeah, that's fine," he replied. As she stepped back, Asad realized that he was half naked in front of her. He could feel the heat rise to his cheeks as hard as he controlled to prevent it. Zoya returned with his kurta and contemplated how to make him wear it. If you don't make him wear it, he is going to stand there looking like that...do you want that? Her brain questioned. Yes!!! her heart cheered. What? No! Shut up, her brain retorted. "I am sorry," she heard her husband say. "Jee?" Zoya said confused. "Tumne bola shut up," he reminded. "I did? I mean kuch nahi," she replied, feeling stupid to have said the last bit of her inner conversation out loud. Zoya moved closer to him and placed the kurta through the head and around his neck. She then placed his hands in their appropriate place. Now comes the hard part, she thought as she pulled the kurta down. Zoya felt her hands tremble as they brushed against his bare body. She has never been this close to him. Seeing her so nervous, Asad felt his body become tense. He looked away afraid that he would do something that might hurt her again. Few seconds later, Asad felt her move away. As she gathered her belongings, "aapki tabeyat kaisi hai? did you take your medications? Aur aap shirt khud kyun nikal rahe the? Ammi koh baatana chahiye tha na, what if you hurt yourself," Zoya blabbered hoping to divert his attention from what had just happened between them. "I just wanted to try myself," he stated. Zoya looked at him with a smile, "aap rest kijiye, main change karke aati hoon," she told him and got out of his sight as fast as she could.

Two weeks passed in a blink! Asad was healing and getting better. Zoya was working to balance office and being there for Asad whenever she can. She was so close to finding out who the person was. Just one mistake, one tiny mistake and she would be able to find that traitor. And Zoya knew that she will find him. She has promised herself that she would do it, for Asad. A smile appeared on her lips thinking about him. She had thought about it a lot and decided that she wouldn't tell him. She can't! Not without knowing how he felt about her. And with Asad, it was hard to know what he was feeling. Yes, things have changed between them. But, did he have feelings for her? Did he...did he love her? Zoya hoped that Asad would tell her how he really felt, if not today then soon, and she will wait for him. Just then, her Skype became activated on her iPad. Zoya smiled as she answered her mom's call. "Kaisi ho beta?" Zeenat asked. "I am fine Ammi!" she replied. "Aur Asad?" Zeenat wondered. "He is getting better. I will go home in a bit and take him to the doctor," Zoya told her. "Yeh toh bahut accha hai," Zeenat stated. "But Ammi, aap kaisi hai? You look so weak," Zoya said worried. "Main bilkul theek hoon. Woh bas dawayi aur chemo ki wajase," Zeenat explained. Zoya observed her mother. She looked so fragile, her skin pale and her lips dry. Her hair was also chopped off as she was losing so much of it. "Ammi, aap saach mein theek haina?" she asked, making sure. Zoya saw her father appear on the screen, "tumari Ammi ka khayal rakne main hoon na. Tum fikar karna chodo aur take care of Asad and yourself," he said. "If it's anything, you have to tell me," Zoya demanded. Anwar just nodded. Before Zoya could speak any further, she saw something come up on her laptop screen. "Ammi, Abu...main aapse baad mein baat karongi. I have to take care of something," Zoya said and ended the conversation.

Zoya couldn't believe it. Few days ago, she has set up a trap in the company computers. Zoya inserted information in the computers and set it up that she gets notified with any suspicious activity. She quickly found the computer where the person was active. Zoya ran out to find the desk. Reaching there, she was surprised but not that much. "Tum? I should have guessed," Zoya said. "What happened?" the person said, frazzled. "Oh please Vijay, act karna hai kissi aur keh saamne karna," she replied, angrily. "Dekho Zoya, tum kabh tak mere peeche padi rahogi," he said. "What nonsense! Yeh kya bakwaas karahe ho tum?" Zoya yelled. The staff started to gather around trying to understand what was going on. "Saach bola toh tume bura lag gaya," Vijay said, acting innocent. "You are sick," she said, disgusted. "Main jaanti hoon keh tum hi ho jisne company keh system mein hack karne ki kosish ki thi. I have proof Vijay...you are finished," she threatened. "I don't know what you are talking about. Maine kuch nahi kiya hai. Kar toh tum rahi ho khabhi mere saath, khabhi humare boss Asad keh saath," Vijay accused. "Apni galti chupane kehliye tum kuch bhi bol rahe ho. Jab se maine yaha job shuru kiya hai, you have been trying to get close to me. Flirting with me every chance you get, I have had enough," Zoya screamed, as her hand reached his face and she slapped him. Vijay was shocked. "How dare you?" he said. As his hand went up in the air, Zoya closed her eyes waiting for the impact. But, nothing happened. Zoya opened her eyes to see her husband who arm was around Vijay's neck. "Sooch kaise liya keh tum Zoya koh haath bhi laaga sakthe ho," he yelled. "Asad, aap yeh kya karahe hai? Chodo usse," Zoya said, scared of what he might do. "Wah...phele toh tum dono chup chup kar sabh karte the, aaj sabh keh saamne," Vijay taunted. Asad let him go and Vijay laughed, believing he was free. The next second, Vijay felt Asad's fist hit his face and he fell to the ground. "Asad, stop it! Aap kya karahe hai?" Zoya said, trying to stop him. But, everything fell on deaf ears. He pounced on Vijay like a hungry lion on its prey. "Biwi hai woh meri, Mrs. Zoya Ahmed Khan," Asad announced, shocking everyone. "Next time, you speak so low about a woman, tum hazaar baar soochoge," Asad said, as he repeatedly kept punching Vijay. Zoya was so scared at that moment. She had forgotten how he reacted when he was furious. "Allah miyan, please stop it!" Zoya screamed. Just then, the police arrived and broke Asad and VIjay apart. Zoya was so glad to see the officials arrive. She saw Vijay who was bleeding profusely from his nose and mouth, his left eye had turned blue. As the police dragged Vijay away, Zoya looked around her colleagues, unsure of how they will react. She heard the hands come together as the room echoed with applause. Zoya couldn't believe it, she smiled thankfully at everyone. As her eyes reached his, she saw his nose flare and his eyes become redder than they already were. Zoya took a step towards him but he turned around and walked out of there.

Hours passed as Zoya went around the city trying to find him. "Aaj hi hospital se theek hoke aaye hai aur paata nahi kaha chale gaye. Phone toh answer karsakthe hai," she said as dialed his number once again. Zoya had even checked with Dilshad but she didn't know where he was either. She searched for him everywhere but couldn't find him anywhere. Zoya returned to the office because she needed her laptop. That was the only way to find him. After a few strokes on the keypad, Zoya sighed thankfully as she ran out of the room again. Speeding through the roads, she reached her destination. Zoya got out, removed her shoes and started to run. Her eyes searched for him as her feet staggered through the sand. As her eyes finally found him, her feet stopped as she gasped for air. Asad was furious after what had happened at the office. He couldn't believe that Vijay had been misbehaving with his wife under his nose, and she didn't even bother to tell him. Why didn't she tell him? Did she not trust him? Was she...No! All these questions were suffocating him from within. So, he left office for some time alone. "Aap samajte keh kya apne aapko?" someone yelled and Asad came out of his thoughts. He turned to see his wife walking up to him. "Zoya?" Asad said, a little confused. "Kitne phone kiye, kabh se pagal ki taara pura seher doond rahi hoon. And, you are sitting here," Zoya said angrily. "Gussa mujhe hona chahiye, and you are yelling at me," Asad replied. "Gussa? Why?" she said, forgetting the scenario at the office. "Are you serious Zoya? Vijay paata nahi kabh se tumare saath batameezi karaha tha, and you didnt even tell me?" Asad yelled. Zoya knew it was wrong to hide it from him but she was going to tell him, only he found out before that happened. "Main...main aapko baatane hi wali thi par..," she tried to explain when he interrupted. "Par kya? It just got erased out of your mind," Asad yelled. "Asad, I am sorry," she said. "Please Zoya, just leave me alone," he told her. As he started to walk away, she wrapped her elbow around his, stopping him. "I know keh I messed up, main saach bol rahi hoon keh main aapko baatane wali thi. Lekin, har baar kuch na kuch hota rehta tha and I couldn't tell you," Zoya explained. "I would have killed him," Asad stated. Zoya could feel the fury run through his veins. "Asad, please. Vijay has been taken by the police. Aabh na mujhe na hi humari company koh uski wajase kohi problem hogi," she said, trying to calm him down. "But, I should have known," he told her. "I know, and I am really sorry," Zoya tried to convince as her hands held her earlobes in apology. Asad closed his eyes, trying to control his anger. He knew that he has always hurt her with his rage. And this time, Asad didn't want to repeat what occurred the previous times. He opened his eyes to see her hopeful cocoa eyes staring at him. His anger vanished and he could feel his heart melting. A smile crept up on his lips, "Fine! Aaj keh baad mujhse kuch nahi chupana," he warned. Zoya sighed, "Thank god aap theek hogaye. Phir main aapse kuch nahi chupaungi," she said with a huge smile on her face.

When Asad and Zoya reached home, Dilshad was worried sick about the two. They both somehow managed to come up with excuses and dodge the situation. Zoya was just glad that all this was over. She was so happy that she had found out who the real culprit was, and Vijay was gotten rid of. Now, his...no, their company was safe. As she got into bed for the night, "Zoya," he called. She looked up at him and he took a seat next to her on the bed. "In the midst of everything, main tume kuch bolna hi bhul gaya," Asad said. "Kya Mr. Khan?" she asked. "Thank you Zoya! Tumne itna kuch kiya company ki safety kehliye. Aaj sabh safe hai sirf tumari waja sa," Asad replied, gratefully. Zoya felt her heart thump with excitement. She grinned, "Aapko thanks kehane ki kohi zaroorat nahi hai. Aap hi ne bola tha na keh yeh company aapki nahi hum dono ki hai. Issliye maine joh bhi kiya, its my duty right?" Zoya stated. Asad had no words but to nod in agreement. The next morning, the staff at the office congratulated Zoya on her accomplishment. "Thank you guys," she said. "Zoya, I am really sorry about everything I ever said about Mr. Khan, I didn't mean any of it," Aanchal said, walking up to her. Zoya giggled, "Aanchal, calm down! It is completely alright. Main Asad ki biwi hoon but I am also your friend. And just for the record, he is not as bad as he pretends to be," she said as she silently laughed. At that moment, Prasad walked out to join them. "Good morning everyone! I know that everyone is excited that the company is secure now, thanks to Zoya. Asad sir would like to throw a party tomorrow night in honor of Zoya and to thank everyone for the hard work towards Dilshad Industries," he announced. Zoya smiled as everyone clapped and cheered.

That evening, Dilshad was overjoyed to hear the news from Zoya. "Yeh toh bahut acchi baat hai, accha kiya Asad," she said to her son who just smiled. "Ammi, you have to help me pick out something to wear," Zoya said excitedly. "I have an idea, hum kal shopping chalte hai and tumare liye ek bahut accha outfit lenge," Dilshad suggested. "I would love that," Zoya replied. Later that night, Zoya was talking to her parents and telling them about VIjay getting caught and that Asad was throwing a party in her honor. She deliberately left out the part about Vijay misbehaving with her and about Asad getting angry because she didn't want to worry them. Zeenat and Anwar were delighted to see their daughter so happy. "Mujhe bahut khushi huwi hai tume iss taara haaste huwe dekhar," Zeenat said. Zoya smiled. "Aabh aapki tabeyat theek haina?" she questioned. "Beta mujhe kuch nahi hua hai. Main theek hoon," Zeenat assured. "Aur waise bhi, mujhe batao keh tum Asad se kabh bolne wali ho?" Zeenat asked. "Tell him what?" Zoya said, confused. "That you love him," Anwar replied casually. Zoya looked at her parents, shocked. How did they know? She hasn't told anyone about it, only her Allah miyan knew. "Aise kya dekh rahi ho?" Zeenat teased. Zoya composed herself, "Aisa kuch nahi Ammi, aap dono kya bol rahe hai," she tried to lie. "Aabh hum se bhi jhoot bologi?" Anwar said. "Aisa nahi hai Abu. I am just really confused," Zoya confessed. "About what?" he wondered. "I just don't know what Asad feels about me. I mean, what if he doesn't like me?" Zoya said, scared. "Zoya, yeh kya baccho jaisi baatein karahi ho tum. Main jaanti hoon keh phele tumare aur Asad keh beech differences the but aabh tume dekhne keh baad, I know keh wohi tume khush rak saktha hai. Aur Zoya, pyaar kohi sauda nahi hota. Pyaar pure dil se karna aur main jaanti hoon keh ek na ek din, Asad bhi tumse utna hi pyaar karega. Aur kya paata, karta bhi ho. Par beta, zaroori yeh hai keh tum Asad se apne dil ki baat bolo. Dil ki baat na bolne se khabhi khabhi dher hojati hai aur waqt humse nikal jaata hai," Zeenat explained. "Tumari Ammi sahi keha rahi hai. Tume apni feelings Asad keh saath share karna chahiye," Anwar added. Zoya thought about it for a minute. She knew her parents were right. How long was she going to hide her feelings from Asad? She has to tell him someday so why not now. Now? No...its late and he is probably asleep. She will tell him tomorrow. Yes, she will tell him at the party, she decided. "Fine, main unne kal bol dungi," Zoya said. Anwar and Zeenat looked at each other and grinned. "That's great," Anwar said. "I am sure keh sabh theek hoga," Zeenat encouraged. "Thank you Ammi! I love you guys," Zoya replied. "We love you too, Good night," her parents said in unison. Zoya smiled to herself as the call ended.

The next day, Zoya left early from work so she could go shopping with Dilshad. They even invited Najma to join them. They were browsing through dresses and Zoya couldn't decide. "Paata nahi kya select karoon. Sabh aise hi hai," Zoya said, dissatisfied. "Zoya, you should buy a sari," Najma announced. "What? No way!" she replied, surprised. "Ha Zoya, yeh idea accha hai. Tum par sari bahut hi pyaari lagegi," Dilshad agreed. "Ammi, main sari kaise samaalogi, I have never worn one," Zoya said. "Main tyaar kardongi, no problem. Aap saris dikhayiye," Dilshad said as an unsure Zoya stood next to her. That evening, Asad was left alone in his room as his wife and mother were upstairs. His mother's instructions were not to disturb them until she said so. He was ready and roaming around in the living room, as his eyes constantly checked the watch on his wrist. As his back was towards the stairs, he could sense her presence. Asad turned around to feel his heart stop, and everything around him become blank. All he could see was his wife who looked ravishing. Dressed in a black sari with a hot pink border, she had her hair pulled back in a bun. Her ears were adorned with matching earrings and the bangles jingle as she fixed the pallu on her shoulder. Zoya felt her stomach twist and turn inside, and her heart was going erratic. She was really nervous about how she was going to carry the sari. Zoya's eyes drifted toward her husband and something in his eyes made her more nervous. She reached the end of the stairs and missed the step. As she fell forward, he ran up to her. His arm went around her waist and Zoya gasped feeling her body burn at his touch. Zoya closed her eyes trying to understand the havoc inside her. "Kaise lagrahi hai meri bahu?" they heard Dilshad ask. They both stepped away and turned to see Dilshad. "Bolo Asad," probed Dilshad. His eyes met hers and he felt like the cat got his tongue. "Woh Ammi...Woh...," she saw him hesitate. "Forget it Ammi, inka kuch nahi hone wala," Zoya huffed as walked past him. "Kya Asad, bichari koh naraaz kardiya na," Dilshad scolded. Asad stood there silently even though he wanted to say that she wasn't a bichari, his heart couldn't.

When he walked out to the parking lot, Asad saw her waiting for him by the car. As he walked closer to open the door, "I can do it!" she told him as Zoya opened the door herself and got in. "This is going very well," he sulked and went towards the driver's side. Sitting in the car, Zoya mumbled to herself. "Akdu na ek number keh akdu hi rahenge. Ek baat bhi nahi bola keh main acchi lagrahi ho ya nahi. I mean I am sure keh main acchi lagrahi hoon but bol dehte toh kya jaata? Aur main sooch rahi thi keh main unse aaj," she debated. Her thoughts were interrupted when she saw him get in. Zoya stared at him then looked away into the darkness. "Zoya, meri baat suno," he tried talking to her. "Nahi karna mujhe aapse baat, infact mujhe aapse khabhi baat nahi karna. Hamesha aapse tareef sunne kehliye mujhe aapko force karna padtha hai. You suck Asad," Zoya whined. "What?" he said, amazed at her choice of words. Asad's lips curved into a smile seeing his beautiful wife pout. He pulled over to the side of the road and stopped the car. Zoya just sat there, looking out the window at nothing in particular. She felt his hand on hers and turned towards him. "Mujhe paata nahi tum itna sabh kaise bol leyti hoon, you know I am really bad with words. Aur aaj jab maine tume neeche aate huwe dekha toh I didn't know what to say, I had no words. But, you should know you look beautiful," he confessed. Zoya's heart skipped a beat as she smiled. His words meant alot to her. She moved closer, her lips brushed against his slightly stubbled cheek. "Thank you," Zoya whispered and her lips touched his cheek in the form of a peck. Asad was shocked. Did she just do that? Or was he dreaming? Zoya went back to her position and winked causing him to blush. A giggle escaped her lips seeing his cheeks turn pink. Asad just shook his head and started driving again.

Reaching the party, Asad came to the passenger side and helped her step out. As they walked inside, Zoya wrapped her hand around his. They both looked at each other and smiled. The staff walked up to them and congratulated Zoya for catching Vikram and saving the company. As Asad spoke to the colleagues and business partners he had invited, Zoya kept stealing glances of her husband. She couldn't wait to tell him. She wanted to tell him how she felt, what was buried in her heart for so long. Right after the party, she will tell him, she decided. The evening was pleasant with the two mingling with the guests. Zoya walked up to her husband and he excused himself from the guests he was with. "Asad, mujhe aapse baat karni hai," she told him. "Ha bolo," he probed. Before she could say any further, they were intervened. "Ladies and Gentleman, hope you are enjoying the evening. I would want to thank Mr. Khan for the amazing party. Aabh main Mr. and Mrs. Khan koh dance floor par invite karna chaunga, I want them to start us off in the celebration," Prasad announced. Asad and Zoya looked at each other a bit surprised. They have never danced before. Asad knew that Zoya loved dancing but him, he can't dance to save his life. "Is he crazy?" he mumbled to his wife. "It won't be that bad, aabh Prasad ne bola hai toh we have to na. Chaliye, we will be fine," Zoya encouraged. Asad was unsure, but when he felt her hand join with his, he felt this new courage erupt inside him. She motioned her head telling him it will be alright. He smiled, as he pulled her to the dance floor. Everyone cheered for the couple as the music started. His left arm snaked around her bare waist and Zoya felt her breath hitch. Maybe this wasn't a good idea, she thought as her heart beat erratically. Her one arm was held in his right hand and the other on his left shoulder.