#2 AsYa FF: 'Mohabbat Zindagi Hai.' *Ch#19 Coming Soon* - Page 31

Eyes... People call them mirror to one's soul but some people are successful in putting a cover over their eyes preventing one to have a glance of their soul. Some do it for cunning malicious purpose however; true eyes are able to see then hidden evil in eyes, while some do to protect their already broken or scared soul. But what if that cover is unable to stop the rays of light coming to through the others eye... You get scared to break apart all over again but light never break a person DARKNESS does. The song ended bringing an end to the mesmerizing moment for people but breaking moment for one. Asad and Zoya parted standing all apart with a slight smile accepting the rounds of applauds. However, Helen wasn't applauding instead was trying to decipher Zoya's face which showed nothing... Zoya moved away from the stage as soon applauds ended. She was walking when she was pulled strongly yet carefully.

Asad came back towards his friends to only witness them grinning. He rolled his eyes getting the reason behind their grins. "Shut those grins of yours... Asad grumbled taking his place. Aman chortled a little after noticing Asad's expression which completely explained that he was annoyed. "Relax... It was a nice dance Asad. You don't need to be annoyed. He coaxed unknown to Asad's real worry. Asad nodded while giving a small smile trying to control the irritation growing inside him. He was now getting irritated if his attention towards Zoya. But wasn't it in human nature to explore the things they find mysterious? Asad excused himself as he saw some guests leaving seems like it was time to leave. Coming near his family he questioned about their departure to which everyone agreed. "Asad where is Zoya? Gaffur questioned observing her absence gathering everyone's attention. Asad looked around to spot her somewhere but didn't saw. "I don't know. She left after the dance. Asad shrugged informing the last time he saw her. Humaira's phone pinged as she turned to see it as a message from Zoya. "Appi's message is here. She is saying that she had some work so she left. She will meet us at home only. Humaira conveyed the message making everyone sigh in relief but Razia shifted uncomfortably. Something inside her was warning her and making those sick feelings rise inside her. Shrugging of it lightly she went with the family but not before bidding bye to the hosts.

Asad looked at the rare mirror of the car noticing the two cars black civics following them from the time they have exited the wedding venue. Beforehand he just shrugged it off thinking it to be coincidence but now it felt weird. The attacks on Zoya flashed in his mind as he again glanced at those cars. He took a turn towards an opposite direction to see them following him making him frown a little. He wasn't a fool to think that they might be following the same track as him. He was pondering over his doubt while driving when his phone began to shrill. Connecting the I-pods he swiped the green icon without noticing the caller ID, his attention was still on the cars. "Stop checking those cars Mr. Khan. Zoya's voice rang through his ears as he turned all attentive hearing her on call. "How do you know? Are you in one of them? Asad asked instead glancing towards his sibling who were talking on some random topic not paying attention to his conversation, which was good for him. "Shut this thing and listen to me. Her irritation was clear in her voice as he hummed asking her to continue. After that intruder incident he has learnt that listening to Zoya as such situations is the best thing.

"Behind these two black cars there are four grey and white cars.

"Yes there are... Asad replied as four of the cars came into his sight as if to show him there presence. As he noticed them he realized they have also been following them since then. But they were scattered round not letting anyone doubt that they are together unlike the two black cars.

"Good now in your way there is a hotel name Paradise. Check in over there under the reservations of Helen Reddy not your own name remembers that. Make sure the elders are with you too. They are also being followed. Everyone stay over there until I call you next. No one shoulder exit from there. Don't call me on your own I will you call you myself. And yes make sure no one other than you and elders get to know the real thing. He heard her patiently making sure that he doesn't come under doubt.

"Okay... Ms. Farooqi wait...? Asad stopped her from cutting the call.

"Yes... She replied, he could feel urgency in her voice.

"Are you being safe Zoya? He asked in concern. After those deadly attacks on her he can't help but worry for her. She is a family member after all. There was silence for a while before a he heard her reply. "Don't worry about me. Nothing will happen to me. He heard her voice removing one worry off him. He picked his phone up before dialing up Rashid's number while keeping a check on his siblings too. He informed him in covered up words informing him about the plan. Thanks to Ayaan that everyone was busy cracking jokes and laughing though he for once caught Humaira looking towards him in concern, he smiled at her lightly easing her.

"Room reservations under Helen Reddy...? Asad talked to the receptionist while other sat their annoyed over their car breaking down all of a sudden. "Your validity mail sir...? He frowned at the validity mail which he definitely doesn't have received from Zoya yet. He cursed the situation under his breath. The phone in his pocket buzzed making him open it immediately. There it is the validity mail right on time. He forwarded his phone towards the receptionist before he turned a little to check on his siblings. The elders have reached and were with the youngsters by now. "Sir Suite number 7605. Here are the keys. Have a pleasant stay sir. He passed a little smile before grabbing the keys and moving towards the elevator. Pleasant...! He snorted at the word, what can be pleasant at such crucial situation. "Any message from Zoya...? Razia asked worriedly making sure no one hears them as they moved towards the lift. He nodded no to only notice tear emerging in her eyes. He side hugged her entering the lift consoling her. "I don't think we will get a mechanic at this time Bhai... I am calling our mechanic by he is not picking the call up. And the hotel management is also unable to arrange one. Ayaan grumbled annoyingly trying to call the mechanic again. "It's 1 a.m. of night Ayaan. No one will pick your call. Asad said leaning against the lift with his eyes closed trying to have some peace.

What is happening in their lives? Never have it happened before that they had to face such situation but now one after another crucial incidents are happening. And top of all every situation involves Zoya and unlocks a new mystery for him. It was like he is playing a game with each level exposing a new danger. He stepped out of the lift along with family entering the suite booked for them. He felt uncomfortable as if someone was watching him. He glanced around to stop at one point where he could see Helen dressed up as a waitress giving him thumbs up. He nodded lightly before he shut the door of the suite. Once entering he looked up at a tensed Razia talking with a Gaffur at a corner while Dilshad poured herself a glass of water. While Rashid was talking on phone with frowns printed over his face, Ayaan, Humaira and Najma have made their way inside one room. "Zoya isn't at home... She never went home the street guard didn't even saw her car... Rashid informed slamming his hand on the table frustrated while Razia's tears now began to spill while Dilshad began to pray. "I told you to stop Zoya from coming here Gaffur. India is not safe for our daughter but you didn't listen to me. Razia cried to Gaffur who stood silently worrying about Zoya only. They have differences amid them but nothing and no one can stop him from caring for his daughter. She is his own blood, his own flesh. "It was Zoya's decision to return Razia not mine. She is a rebel against me how am I supposed to stop her? Gaffur said politely. His voice carried the essence of helplessness which Asad could sense easily. "She would have not come if you would have asked her Bhaijaan. She is a rebel but she never neglects what you say. Dilshad spoke for the first time gaining everyone's attention present in the small lounge. Luckily the room in which Humaira, Najma and Ayaan entered was closed so they couldn't hear what's going on outside. "But it is useless to talk about it now... What had to happen happened...! For now pray for her safety. Dilshad shut off the matter not wanting to dig the past all over again.

Razia sat with a thud on the couch while tears rolling down her eyes. Only one name was running in her mind, Zoya. Asad could not help but wonder what had happened such in the past that until Zoya returned this case never came out in open. He wanted to question but preferred to stay silent noticing Razia's vulnerable situation. He has never seen his B. Ammi crying ever before; she has always been the strongest women according to him. And today watching her crying like this he couldn't help but curse the reason behind her tears. Taking slow steady steps he sat on his knees near her holding her hands in his. "She will be fine B. Ammi. Don't cry like this please...! I don't know much about Zoya but I know she won't like watching you in tears. For her stop crying. Asad pleaded trying to use the emotional card. Razia couldn't help but to let more tears to flow down her eyes. A gut feeling in her told her that her daughter wasn't safe and fine.

Holding Asad's hands she caressed his hairs lovingly. He has always been a reminder of Zoya since the time Zoya left to US. One of the reasons why she loves him more than any other sibling of him, he is her companion from childhood. She has shared everything with him what she hasn't shared with anyone else. Her daughter has given him that position in her life which she won't to anyone else in her life. She had made him her diary. "What was her wording when you asked her about her safety? Razia asked after sometime of composing herself. "Don't worry about me. Nothing will happen to me. Asad ditto copied her words unaware of their meaning. Dilshad swiftly turned her head towards Razia's direction earning the same reaction as she expected. Razia was again at the verge of crying. "Did her... Did she say anything else? Her voice not more than whisper as she looked at Asad hoping to hear what she wants to hear. Asad shook his head confused that what else does she wants to hear. "Gaffur she is not safe. Razia mumbled looking at nothing specific. "Can anyone here tell me what's so unsafe for Zoya in India? What happened in past that you all are so scared for her always? Asad asked out unable to hold himself anymore. He has been hearing this from the time Zoya has kept her feet in India and now he wants to know the reason. Dilshad stayed mum not bothering to answer him up. She knew sooner or later Asad will question it as coincidently every time there is something wrong Asad is present there. He was known to everything before his memory loss after which they have shut this topic for everyone's betterment only. She wanted to tell him the reality about Zoya and everything but she was helpless in front of his health. They had tried to tell him about Zoya once and his reaction wasn't something encouraging.

Asad looked at everyone shocked as no one bothered to reply him instead they were not even sparing him a glance. He was going to blast at them when his pocket buzzed before the shrilling tone of his phone broke the unnerving silence. "It's Zoya. Asad informed and as expected everyone turned towards him. "Put it on speaker. Rashid suggested. "Hello... As soon Zoya's voice echoed everyone took a deep breath hearing assured of her being fine. Asad told about the cars following them till they entered the hotel zone. "I know... Have you gained control over Ammi's tears or is she still crying? Asad chuckled noticing Razia's tear stained cheeks while she hastily wiped them. No doubt Zoya knows her mother quite well. "Give her the phone I will talk to her. As asked Asad transferred the phone to Razia letting the speaker switched on.

"Zoya... Razia called out her name with care and concern evident. Asad looked at her and smiled. If anyone asks him to die for someone other than his blood relation than he will happily die for this woman in front of him.

"First take a tissue and clean those tears of yours. You look scary with them. Everyone chuckled lightly at her statement while Razia wiped her tears.

"Zoya you are safe na...? Razia asked with concern as soon she composed herself. There was silence with no reply from her side. "Zoya... Razia called out again.

"Nothing will happen to me. Don't worry... After what seemed like eternity her reply came.

"I asked are you safe or not? Razia asked adamantly. Zoya's words were twisted that means something was wrong. There was silence again rising worry in her. "Zoya are you safe or not? She questioned again.

"Don't worry they won't kill me. They need me alive to settle the scores. Her reply brought nothing but a wave of anger, sadness and helplessness. Asad frowned hearing her reply. Scores...?? What scores? Who are these THEY...?

"Zoya come over at this place right now... Razia ordered strictly. They heard Zoya snorting in response.

"I am not an emotional like you Ammi. I am not coming there. Now pass the phone to Asad. Her voice carrying the gram as if ordering Razia changing Razia's care into anger.

"Zoya come over here right now... I am getting worried. Razia snapped at her.

"Oh please Ammi! Shut this care of yours, I am not used to it. Where was this care of yours when I was suffering in an orphanage for years!! At that time you didn't get worried than please don't get worried now too. Zoya snapped back opening another Pandora box for Asad. She has been in an orphanage!

"Zoya... Razia whispered in pain while everyone else shut their eyes at the painful memories. Even if they try to forget it they can't because that one incident changed many things in their lives. The call went dead as the phone slipped down from Razia's hands. She blinked her eyes stopping the tears emerging in her eyes. Gaffur side hugged Razia providing her consolation while she silently wiped the tears that escaped from her eyes. Asad stood there noticing them in tension, sadness and pain. What all of a sudden went wrong with his perfect family? That was the only question running in his mind while he was unaware of the answer. He silently glanced towards Razia and his heart torn apart noticing her wiping her lone tear. A ray of disgust passed through him for Zoya, how can she be so heartless to her own mother? What had his B. Ammi done wrong with her?

To avoid this suffocating atmosphere he went inside the room the youngsters went it. He chuckled noticing them fallen asleep with clothes changed. A frown appeared on his face as saw the new clothes they all were wearing. They were their casual clothes but how come they be here. Realizing it must be Zoya who had arranged it he shook his head. At one side this lady shows care for her family and on the second half she becomes a rebellious heartless person. Tugging Humaira and Najma in the duvet properly he turned towards Ayaan who was lying on the couch to only cover him with an extra spare blanket. After giving a quick glance at all of them once again he made his way towards the Al-Mira. As expected there were clothes for him too, sighing he left to change.

Zoya came out of the car and leaned against the car shutting her eyes taking deep breaths trying to calm her own self down. Calling Asad an hour ago turned out to be a bad turn for her. Shaking her head she stood up properly opening the door of the car. She winced a little before shaking her right hand angrily while a few abuses escaped her mouth. Ignoring the pain she was about to sit back again before her own words to her mother and Asad replayed in her mind. "Nothing will happen to me... Slamming the door she growled in irritation. Before she looked up towards the room of the hotel in which her family was. "Bloody words... She muttered under her breath before she took out a handkerchief from her jeans. Roughly tying it on her hand she opened the car door again. Starting the car she sped off dialing Helen's number on her phone. Connecting the Bluetooth she focused back on the road. "Yes Helen it's me Zoya. Listen to me carefully and type it. Pulling down the Bluetooth she ran her hand in her hairs looking at the side mirror she took a U-turn.

Asad opened the door after hearing the knock to only see Helen with a trolley. "Your order sir. Helen said giving him the idea to pick up. Realizing what she meant he let her enter before closing the door carefully. "Everyone is in the room. Asad informed after noticing her looking around. Nodding she turned towards him to give him her phone after opening something on it. Confused he took her phone to only see something typed on it.

"The mess has been cleared Mr. Khan. You can take the family and come back in the cars waiting downstairs for you all. If there is anything else you want to ask then call me else no need... Tell Ammi that yes I am safe now... I will meet her at her house.

From,

Zoya Farooqi.

He read the message from Zoya typed on Helen's phone before he returned it to her. Any question... Nah... He has tones of questions he needs answer of but he can't at this moment at least. Even at a message she used "her house not home. But at least the danger is off them, he sighed in relief. Helen chuckled noticing Asad taking a sigh making him embarrass. Helen was ready to leave when stopped her, "I want to talk to you. She nodded understanding that he wants answers. "Where is Zoya? He asked. Beforehand he had thought that since Helen is here so Zoya would also be around but now he believes she is not here. "I don't know. The last time I saw her she was dancing with you after that she disappeared. Helen replied honestly. She has also been worried for her before Zoya herself called her. "Okay next question... "Am I being interrogated at some police station...? Helen cuts off Asad in between. Asad looked at her before he offered her to sit. "I apologize to make you feel like that... But I need to know what's wrong with your boss. She is the weirdest human I have ever come across. Helen couldn't help but chuckle by the way Asad complimented Zoya. "Don't sweat Mr. Khan I was just kidding. I will answer your questions until I have a true answer about them. Helen said making Asad smile a little. At least there was someone who wasn't ignoring his question and makes him feel like an alien. "You can call me Asad. And don't worry I won't ask questions that would interrupt your privacy with her. Just questions about today. Helen nodded before asking him to start. She has to answer carefully keeping in mind his memory loss.

"Did Zoya knew this beforehand and is because of this reason she gave me chance to blackmail her? Asad kept forward the first question running through his mind from the time Zoya called him to inform about the instructions.

"No she didn't know it beforehand else she would have not let you guys even take a step out of the house. The reason she allowed the blackmail is unknown to me. Helen replied easily. It was so basic.

"Why did you say that Zoya doesn't dances when she dances quite well? Asad questioned curiously. Helen chuckled lightly in response making him slightly confused. What's there to chuckle about...?

"Sorry it was my mistake. Whenever I used to ask her to dance with me or some fellows she would always say that dancing is not her thing. So we all assumed that she doesn't know how to dance. Zoya is quite careful while using words; you never know what she means since her statements always have double meanings. As Helen replied Asad understood why Razia wanted to hear a straight answer because Zoya was carefully dodging the real answer.

"She is rude... Asad muttered under his breath.

"She is realistic. Helen clarified.

"She is clever... Asad charged.

"She is intelligent and smart enough to deal with every situation righteously. You can always use your intelligence on other things too other than business and studies. Helen corrects.

"She takes decision hastily without caring about the side effects. Asad accused as he recalled about her hospital stunt how she got herself discharged.

"Everyone thinks her decisions to be haphazard ones even I use to. But the truth is she takes a decision after putting its pros and cons in front of her. Helen informed leaving Asad pondering what was her thought behind discharging herself.

"She is heartless. Asad recalled how many times she had made Razia cry without caring about her tears.

"She has a golden heart but uses her brain over her heart. Depends with whom she is dealing... Helen replied recalling her weak times when other than Zoya there was no one with her.

"She is a loner... Asad whispered loud enough for Helen to hear. He has always seen her either engrossed in work or sitting alone in silence. Helen smiled sadly. Zoya deserved everything but not the title of a loner.

"You haven't known her yet Asad. She is anything but a loner. Asad looked at Helen to see her pass him a polite smile.

"She is an angry bird... Helen chuckled again hearing angry bird.

"She rarely losses her temper but when she does that it is a disaster. Asad chuckled understanding her statement.

"She is mysterious and secretive... Asad informed.

"She is a private person. Opens up with only a few people... And you are one of them. She wanted to say but stayed quiet.

"She never forgives anyone... Asad recalled how he heard Gaffur conversation about Zoya not forgiving him.

"Depends on what that person has done Mister... Helen was bit irritated by Asad has formed a false image of Zoya in his mind. But she can't even blame him, he has seen in her worst avatars from the time she has returned.

"She doesn't care for anyone but herself... Again Gaffur's teary eyes flashed in front of him.

"You haven't known her that is why you are saying this... She can destroy herself for the ones she loves... Any other possibility of yours can turn out to be true but not this one... Helen protested as memories of her past flashed in front of her eyes. If Zoya would have not been there she would have not been here but in blues.

"You praise her a lot... Smitten by her it seems... Asad expressed chuckling. Every statement of him is answered by her in a praising way. She is a loyal friend of Zoya. Helen smiled before she prepared. "I am just telling you the truth. Nothing exaggerated.

"Yeah right... Asad marked sarcastically rolling his eyes.

"Instead I feel you are too quick in judging her. You have formed an image of her in your mind which is nothing but your mistake. Don't judge a book by its cover Asad, it's a friendly advice. Helen said it out clearly mildly shocking Asad. He looked away trying to avoid Helen's gaze which was accusatory. "Anyways I have to leave. And if you have any further questions about Zoya ask her she won't refuse to answer you. Bye. Saying so she left the way she came with the trolley. Asad sighed as soon he heard the door closing. Boss and her P.A. / friend are nothing but someone who disturbs his mental peace. "Why am I even thinking about it? Shut this thing and get back to home. Enough of this dramatic situation... He mumbled moving towards his parent's room to convey them the message. Everyone took a sigh of relief once they got to know about Zoya's message. "But kids are sleeping... They will ask unnecessary questions... Cannot we let them stay here for tonight? Dilshad voiced out, she doesn't want them to question them unnecessarily, it will raise problem for them. Asad excused himself to receive call of Zoya. He doesn't trust her to talk with Razia again; she was inexcusably rude last time. "Is there some problem again? As soon Asad received the call her voice passed through his ears. Sighing he turned to have a look at Razia who was talking to Dilshad by now. "No there isn't any major problem but there is a little tiny problem. Asad told her about the lie he had used to stay over the hotel and now they are asleep and at this time no cabs or taxis are available to be used as an excuse. "You guys can stay over there. There is no problem in it. Asad heard her replying calmly before the line went dead. Sometimes she is so calm like an ocean but then she acts like a tsunami. "Let them stay here I want to see Zoya so I am going home. I can't be at peace until I don't see her myself. Razia announced her decision ready to leave while Dilshad and Rashid decided to stay back with the kids. Asad had decided to accompany Razia and Gaffur. After what all happened in past few hours he can't let any of his member to be alone specially elders.

"That bloody jerk has tagged you Zoya. Helen entered in the hall in irritation while Zoya chuckled taking a sip from her can letting the cold liquid flow down her throat. "Trust me he thinks of you as a villain. I swear if you wouldn't have asked me answer his some questions I would have punched him then and there for talking about you like that... Helen sat down with a thud besides huffing puffing. Helen turned to look at Zoya who was unnecessarily silent while was continuously cursing Asad. She has been annoyed from the time she has heard him calling Zoya heartless, rude and what not. "Why no reaction...? Helen questioned before she could get an answer she had a look around hall. There were some blood spots with a few cans of beer. She immediately looked at Zoya's can to see it of beer only. Gasping she snatched away the can to receive a glare from Zoya. While Zoya took another can attaching it to her lips making Helen snatch it away from her too. "Stop it Helen... Zoya grumbled trying to snatch the can making her injured hand come in sight. Helen kept the cans away from Zoya reaching out to Zoya's hand full of blood. Zoya snatched away her hand immediately, "Don't!! She warned dangerously making Helen move her back. But her eyes were stuck to her hand which was smeared with blood while there was a napkin tied on it roughly. "What are you up to now Zoya? How come this injury...? Fight?? She asked tiredly. Zoya won't let her touch her injury and she can't sit here idle letting her blood flow. "No... Zoya replied monosyllabically picking the beer can again while Helen didn't stop her this time. "I want a full explanation...Helen demanded stubbornly before snatching away the can again making Zoya groan.

Zoya slammed the can on the table as Helen again tried to snatch it. "Ok fine... I am not drinking anymore... Ask what you want to ask. Zoya screeched sitting up properly while Helen smirked on her success. "Full explanation... Helen demanded again with straight strict face this time. Zoya sighed leaning back opening the knot of her napkin. "One of the drivers of those black cars was ours. The guy with whom we replaced him gained consciousness quite soon. Before I stopped him he just gave this scratch with cutter. End of the story.Helen took Zoya's hand tightly analyzing the so called scratch which was a proper wound. Helen shut her eyes for a moment after looking at her wound which was animalistic. Zoya snatched her hand back looking away from her while she glared at her. "Your "scratch is a proper wound Zoya. What is wrong with you? From the time you have come to India you are changed. You were never this irresponsible. Helen blasted at her annoyed by her irresponsible behavior. Zoya just spared her glance before picking her beer can. Helen gritted her teeth before she threw the can on the floor. "And you are having beer in your house?? Who was that Zoya who told me not even think of drinking in this house since your mother dislikes such habits? Zoya looked at her before she charged back, "I said that don't ever drink in front of any member of this family. They are not here so who will get hurt by my drinking? Helen bit her lips in anger as Zoya charged back at her in anger. "There your mother was crying Zoya for you in worry and here you are sipping beer. How can you be so... She was cut off by Zoya as she herself continued. "Heartless... Right...? Yes I don't care whether she was crying or not. You know why because I was, am and always will be heartless... Helen's anger vanished away as she heard calling Zoya her own self heartless. Her eyes softened as memories as past flashback in front of her, before she said what she always wished to say, "You are not heartless... You never were and you never can. It is a mask you have pulled over yourself Zoya. "You wish... Zoya snorted in reply as she picked a new can of bear opening it up. "How can you be heartless when you nearly destroyed your life just to protect mine? Zoya halted in between hearing Helen's question. Helen saw the annoyance in her eyes diminishing as saw them get uncovered. Before she could even determine her eyes they were again hooded with blankness. Zoya took a few sips turning her back towards Helen while Helen awaited her reply. "There is nothing of that sort. She heard Zoya's voice after sometime. "I never protected your life. It is just your imagination. Zoya continued after turning back to face her. Helen smiled sarcastically, "You won't accept and I can't forget. Anyways I will get the first aid box your hands need to be treated. Zoya nodded letting Helen disappear from her sight. Taking a deep breath Zoya sat back on the couch leaning against it closing her eyes back again as they were before Helen came. The beer cans lost her interest as she searched for peace and cure in the silence.

Razia along with Gaffur and Asad entered the mansion to see Zoya leaned against the sofa with her eyes closed and head thrown back. Her one leg crooked on the table while the other lay straight over the table. She was in a pair of plain black half sleeve t-shirt and blue jeans. Her face was devoid of any tension, worry or anger just peace stayed there. "Zoya... She whispered out in relief as finally a smile made a way on her face. Zoya snapped her eyes open as she felt some movements around. Her hand immediately slid to her jeans where she had kept her gun. Without any movement she stayed immobile waiting for any other movement. "Zoya... Razia called out loud this time watching her opening her eyes. As soon Razia's voice hit her ears she let her hand fall from her gun relaxing her shoulder as she sat up straight. A small smile made its way on her lips as she her mother safe and sound without any injury. Razia took Zoya in an immediate motherly hug while Zoya just patted her back with her free hand. "Good night...Zoya wished after breaking the hug turning on her heels to leave the hall to avoid any further conversation. Razia smiled a little letting her go to only let the blood spots on the floor come in sight. "Zoya stop... Razia shouted making Zoya stop in her steps. She closed her eyes in frustration as she inwardly mumbled few curses. "Must have noticed the blood spots... Damn!! Razia however now noticed Zoya's hiding her hand from her sight. Moving near her Razia faced her back before she looked on the floor to see a tiny spot of blood. "Show me your hand Zoya...Razia ordered while Gaffur moved closer after noticing the blood spots. It wasn't hard to notice them on the off-white marble floor. Gritting her teeth slightly Zoya showed her uninjured hand to only get scolded by Razia. "Don't play smart with me. The other hand... Zoya turned around fisting her injured hand making sure to not let her blood in sight. "Open it... Razia further ordered holding Gaffur's hand tightly. Zoya squeezed her eyes before running her free hand in her hairs messing them up more. "Ammi you don't need to. You know it can have adverse effect on you. Zoya tried to persuade her making Asad frown. He didn't understand why her injured hand will have an adverse effect on Razia. He went and stood by the left side of Razia. "I said open it Zoya... Razia ordered again not removing her gaze from her hand. "Ammi you won't be able to take it... Please... You have haemophobia (fear of blood). Zoya moved her fist back as she saw blood coming into sight due to fisting it. Asad observed Zoya's blood oozing out through her fist and without flinching as she tried to dissuade her mother from discomfort without caring about her own. "She can destroy herself for the one she loves... He recalled his and Helen's convo. As he saw the glimpse of Zoya Helen talked about. "Zoya I said show me... Razia pulled her arm carefully trying to not her in process. Zoya closed her eyes as the warm air hit her fresh wound making her shudder.

Asad flinched as he saw her soft skin harshly torn apart and as an instant his eyes switched to her face to see her bite her lower lip with her eyes closed. He noticed Razia frozen over her spot as she saw the same hands she used to caress and apply lotion torn so brutally. Her upper skin has parted away giving a sight of her flesh and blood. Her skin was displaying the darkest shades of red pouring the essence of wildness. Gaffur eyes tear up as the same hands which use to hold his large palms and try to walk filled with nothing but blood. "Does it hurt a lot Cookie?The words flow involuntarily from his mouth as he eyed her blood filled hand. Zoya opened her slowly hearing the name she once used to dance upon. She looked up at her Gaffur with her red blood shot eyes and for the first time Asad didn't saw hatred in her eyes for Gaffur. "No... She whispered moving her sight back away from him. Asad was momentarily shocked as Zoya answered Gaffur politely else she always mocked him or ignored him. "What did they use? Razia questioned not moving her eyes away from her hand while sweat beads began to appear on her forehead. "Cutter... Zoya mumbled before raising her eyes to meet her mother's eyes. Zoya noticing the sweat beads on Razia's forehead and tried to close her hand to see Razia's hand slowly touching her wound. "Don't do it... You are already sweating... Consequences won't be good... Zoya warned taking her hand away from her reach. Razia cupped her face letting her tears roll down while Zoya gave a tight lip smile holding Razia's one hand. "You use to scream out loud taking the world over your head when even a tiny needle would touch you Zoya... What changed so much Zoya that now this deep cut doesn't even brings a frown on your face...? Razia questioned recalling the Zoya that left from here to US. Zoya's eyes suddenly went cold as her grip over Razia's hand loosened before it got tightened again to only remove her hand from her cheeks. "Life changed, circumstances changed, people changed, and I was forced to change myself. Saying so she moved towards main door ready to leave before she heard Razia's helpless voice. "Don't worry not going anywhere... Just in the lawn.

"Zoya where is the first ai... Helen came out in the hall to see Asad standing there collecting the beer cans. Noticing Helen Asad stood up straight asking does she needs something. Asad saw Helen looking around, probably searching for Zoya. "She is outside, in the lawn. Asad informed. "Asad could you just give me a first aid box... I can't find any in Zoya's room. Helen asked as her gaze again fell on the blood drops. "It's in my room. I will get it. Asad said before he went to his room. After noticing all the things happening he was clear now that Zoya changed aggressively in past few years. Somewhere deep down a desire in him appeared to see the old Zoya everyone used to talk about, the Zoya Helen talked about. He wanted to be one of her selected loved ones, unaware that he was already topping the list in that. Helen saw the disturbing blood drops as she immediately picked some tissues and cleaned them. As she was done she saw Asad coming back with first aid box. She was about to take it as Asad came towards her when Asad moved it a little back. Crooking her brow she questioned him. "If you don't... If you don't mind can I... just go and... treat her wound... Like only if you are comfortable with it... Otherwise it's all cool... Asad fumbled with words leaving Helen in thoughts. "Zoya won't let me touch her wound since far I know her... But maybe Asad can give her a little bit of piece...Helen pondered before nodding giving him the permission making him smile. "Thanks... Asad mumbled making Helen smile in reply. "Don't say it... I know Zoya won't let me touch her wound but maybe she allows you so... Helen winked before she left to her room leaving behind a confused Asad. "Weird girl...Muttering he left to treat Zoya whose wound has clearly disturbed him. He for a second felt like he saw Zoya's lashes wet when Gaffur called her Cookie and now after watching her leave a gut feeling in him was telling him that maybe leaving her alone at this moment will make negative thoughts rise in her. In fact, wasn't it the truth that sometimes the end of such emotional moments result in emergence of negative thoughts.

Asad stepped in the lawn to see Alex in Zoya's lap as she was patting his head slightly while she sat on the bench with her back leaned upon staring at moon. He made his way towards her mentally preparing his self for the protest he was going to face to treat her hand. Zoya was a little startled when she felt some wetness on her hand. She smiled as she saw Alex licking her free hand letting out few slow timid voices as if showing his care and love to her. "You are my only companion in this dark night Alex... She smiled ruffling his hairs while he settled his head in her lap again. "You know the reality Alex don't you? Zoya questioned smiling while Asad found her smiling sadly. He was at a distance observing her and preparing himself when he saw her talking to Alex. From the first day of Zoya's return the dogs have made is crystal clear that Zoya is dearer to them than him. Zoya turned her head a little looking at Alex while he looked at her with his tongue out showing his love for her clearly. "She asked what changed so much Alex... Only if she would have known that what didn't change... Alex closed his eyes moving closer to Zoya feeling the love and warmth from her. Zoya chuckled as Alex moaned lowly hiding himself in her waist. "Only you remained unchanged... Zoya kissed his head smiling. She leaned back again caressing his head while he stayed liked that giving and seeking warmth from her. Zoya flinch a little as she felt her injured hand come in contact with someone's skin. "It is scratched Alex. Not this one... Thinking it to be Alex she took her hand back softly not intending to hurt his feelings. "Alex boy please not this han... Asa... Mr. Khan! She rose up to stop Alex this time but to find Asad sitting there in front of her on a chair. Asad saw her leaning back again ignoring him. Asad took her hand again ready to put anti- septic over it when she pulled it out back again. He groaned as she repeated it thrice irritating him, he was trying to be nice with her but she is being a spoilt sport. "No need to do it Mr. Khan. Zoya spoke for the first time with him making him roll his eyes. He again held her hand and when realized Zoya was about to withdraw it again he held it tightly yet carefully glaring at her. "I am stronger than you... Don't force me to put it out in display because I clearly don't want to. Asad spoke for the first time in sheer irritation with her. Zoya gritted her teeth lightly before digging her nails in his hand which was holding her making him yelp freeing her hand immediately. "You are being stubborn... Asad hissed annoyed by her. On watching her not responding he felt like chopping her then and there only. He pulled her hand roughly holding his tightly. "If you are stubborn then I am father of stubbornness. Zoya huffed at his comment turning his face away from him.

A small smirk appeared on Asad's face as he saw her silent not protesting. He picked the cotton dipped with anti-septic before putting it on her hand carefully. He felt her flinching a little before she tried to pull her hand out. "It hurts... Right...? Asad asked noticing her peeking at her hand as he blew and applied the septic cleaning her blood. Zoya looked into his eyes for a few seconds before she turned her hand back away. "No... He heard her voice after a while making him chuckle amusingly. She was lying and it was clear on her face. "I thought you don't lie? Asad asked picking up a tuser from the first aid box to remove the scratched skin. Zoya held her hand lightly as Asad removed her rugged skin carefully. "I do lie in some cases only... Zoya confessed holding Asad's hand stopping him. "Slow... She hissed as she gripped his hand tightly feeling her skin being burnt. Asad looked at her hold on his hand nodding and understanding. Zoya removed her hand slowly nodding at him to continue as he asked through his nod. He removed the last piece on dead skin from her hand and looked at her face. She was caressing Alex who had probably fallen asleep in that posture only. "It hurts Asad... Asad hand halted in its way as Zoya's voice passed through him as he turned to look at her. She was still lovingly caressing Alex. Zoya lifted her eyes from Alex to look at Asad who was already looking at her in surprise. He surely didn't expect her to confess the truth. Asad saw her passing him a small smile as he tried to overcome his surprise. "I do lie Mr. Khan but unlike others I confess the truth too before it's too late. He heard her, talking to him for the first time properly. But it disturbed him that she was back to calling him Mr. Khan just a second ago she called him Asad but now she was back to the Mr. and Ms. Business. "It's Asad for you not Mr. Khan... Asad muttered loud enough for her to hear. He turned his attention back to her hand as he heard chuckle simultaneously. "Won't that be against your so called rules? She asked with a smirk as Asad for once again glanced at her. Something in her smirk warned him that maybe she knew the truth. "No... Asad answered as he applied the gel on her wound. "Come on now confess the truth... I won't send you to jail... I swear on that... He saw Zoya slightly chuckling noticing him. At one side he liked that she was smiling because of him and for a change was being a joyous soul not angry or annoyed but on the other side he was alert that his drama is going to end. He enjoyed fighting with her and making her irritated. "What truth...? He questioned putting cotton on her hand as she snorted hearing his question. "You don't know?Zoya questioned crooking her brow being suspicious while he shrugged trying to act as an aware guy. "Do you think I am deaf or blind that I didn't hear Humaira cursing you every time and see your routine? Come on I am not fool Mr. Khan... Zoya let her card come out in open making Asad squeeze his eyes shut. Asad looked at her to see her enjoying his embarrassed plight. "You know the truth then why do you want to hear it from me again? Asad asked wrapping the gauze over the cotton taking his own sweet time. "I will feel content... Let me think about proper words... Yes I will get the certificate of my victory by your confession. Your words are going to be evidence of my victory... Zoya neared him checking her hand which was now fully treated and covered. "Thanks... She passed him a smile before leaning back waiting for him to say the words. Asad sighed noticing her unmovable gaze at him as he slumped his shoulders down in defeat. "It was a prank on you. I have no problem with anything of yours other than your reckless behavior. Asad confessed making Zoya smile in victory she woke Alex up asking him to go at his place.

Zoya stood up giving a side glance to Asad moving back inside. "Zoya... Zoya stopped hearing Asad calling out to her but didn't turn towards him. Asad took it as a sign asking him to continue as moved a little forward. Without any further thought he said what he felt he should have asked from a long time. "Can we be friends Zoya?