Posted:
I am a young published author (I don't mean to boast). I have published 2 books. I have never written a romance though I love reading them. This is my first romance. All comments will be accepted - even rejections (I am used to them).
Index:
Part 1,2,3,4,5: Below
Part 6: https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/post/83455442
To be continued...
Hey guys I thought if I could post all the chapters together it would be easier for all of you so here are all the chapters.
Part 2
Asad did not have to go to work today as it was some bank holiday. Everyone except Zoya was present at the table for breakfast. This worried Asad, he wondered if she was yet asleep. How could he start his day without her laughter and her stupid shers?
"Where is Zoya?" he inquired.
"She must be coming. Why are you so concerned all of a sudden?" asked Dilshad with a smile, even though she knew.
"Nothing, actually she is there every morning so I asked." he explained, though this wasn't the real reason.
Zoya walked in. She was unusually quiet. The Khan family was now so used to her laughter that all of them were worried. Asad even stated that there is an India-Pakistan match today, but Zoya did not flinch.
"Are you okay Zoya? You are unusually quiet today." asked Najma.
"Yes, I am okay." she responded with a fake laugh as Asad dropped a bottle of sauce.
"Allah Miyan! What's wrong with you Mr. Khan? The perfectionist dropping something? I can't believe it." she said, genuinely laughing.
Asad had deliberately dropped the bottle. He knew that she won't leave a chance to make fun of him, and for the first time he wasn't angry at her.
"Ammi, I don't have to go to office today as it is some bank holiday. I have an important meeting at 1 pm, which I have to attend." Asad informed Dilshad.
"Okay." she nodded.
Asad and Zoya helped Dilshad to her room while Najma cleared up. Zoya had to speak to Najma so she told Asad that she is going to help Najma. Dilshad understood and asked her to do so.
"Hey Najma!" exclaimed Zoya, entering the kitchen.
"Hey! You wanted to talk to me right? Is it about yesterday?" she questioned.
"Kind of, yes," Zoya replied, "Sit."
Najma sat down. Zoya started her story. She had revised what she had to say many a time. Zoya told her how last night when Asad put his arm around her, she did not feel like removing it and when he commented on her beauty, she blushed and even though the coffee he had made for her was bitter, she had it as she did not want to hurt his feelings.
"I think you should discuss this with Ammi, she has gone through love so she would know better." said Najma. She knew this was love but she herself did not want to tell Zoya.
"I should discuss this with PHUPHI of all people? I am talking about her son, you know." said Zoya.
"I am also his sister, you know." replied Najma, in the same tone.
"You are also my best friend. Please help me Najma, I really need it." begged Zoya, she had never asked a favour from anyone, but she no other option.
"Okay, my conclusion is that you love Asad Bhaijaan!" giggled Najma.
"I did not expect this from you. I will talk to phuphi after all." sighed Zoya.
Asad came down at 12:30. Zoya was making soup while Najma was getting the tray ready.
"Najma, Zoya one of you go up to Ammi, I have to leave for my meeting." said Asad.
"Zoya, you go up and I'll get the soup." said Najma.
Zoya nodded and went away. This was her golden chance to speak to phuphi.
"Phuphi? I need to talk to you about Mr. Khan." said Zoya, seriously.
"Don't tell me he needs to see a physiatrist, please." joked Dilshad.
"No." replied Zoya and told Dilshad the whole story, she also added what Najma said.
"Najma is right, this is love." agreed Dilshad.
Asad was listening to all of this. He had actually come to bid goodbye to his Ammi. He was shocked and happy. He too probably loved Zoya and therefor cared for her deeply. He needed Ayan, and he needed him pronto.
Zoya blushed. She couldn't believe herself. She had fallen for Jahapana six-packs, but did he love her back?
"I am sorry, I had to ask you all of this and that also abouth your own son." said Zoya, sheepishly.
"Its okay, I can be your agony aunt too." said Dilshad winking.
Part 3
Asad reached the cafe at the dot of 1. Ayan was as usual flirting with some random girl at the cafe. Ayan saw Asad approaching, and told the girl that he would be back in a few minutes. The brothers sat on an other table.
"Assalamualaikum Bhaijaan." greeted Ayan.
"Walaikumusalaam." replied Asad.
"What happened Bhaijaan? What do you want to talk about? I can solve all your problems, except business ones. Is it about some girl?" Ayan threw questions at Asad.
"You won't believe this, but strangely I want to talk to you about a girl, Zoya. She is the one staying at my house." said Asad, with a funny face. This was a weird situation for him.
"Zoya? Is she the same girl that those men were after? The girl who got you stabbed in the stomach? She was also the girl who saved Najma from those naughty boys. She is staying at your house? I've been looking for her! She is so pretty- and rude." Ayan went on.
"Excuse me Ayan, she is MY girl!" said Asad without thinking.
"Your girl?" Ayan was shocked. His Bhaijaan had fallen in love with the same girl he liked.
"I mean I think I love her and she loves me back, I heard her telling Ammi. Ayan please help me with this matter, how should I admit my feelings?" asked Asad and poured out the whole story. Ayans mood was spoilt. His Bhaijaan had spoilt while usually he was the one who cheered him up.
"Poems should help." suggested Ayan.
"Ayan you know I don't like poems." said Asad.
"Then just go ahead and tell her I love you or flirt with her." Ayan said.
"Good idea, I'll try." replied Asad.
"Bhaijaan, I have some important work, so I'll catch you later." Ayan made an excuse to go.
Asad bade him a goodbye and Ayan just went away. Usually, Ayan could sit with Asad for the whole day if he could. Asad, blinded by love did not understand that Ayan was upset. This meeting ended in only 15 minutes. Asad could not go back home this early. He decided to think about what to say to Zoya. He checked online for some poems. He then came up with:
Love can travel miles away
Just like time does during night and day
But as love travels miles apart
It still has a solid place in the heart
As I express thesefeelings I have for you
I hope you have them for me too
Because my life is empty without you...
He was reading out the poem as a girl passed by. The girl thought he was saying it for her, so she came and sat across him and thanked him in a flirty manner. He was confused. He did not imagine that she thought the poem was for her.
"Why are you thanking me?" asked a clueless Asad.
"Thanks for the poem,"she replied with flirty eyes, "I needed just that, my boyfriend just broke up with me."
"I am sorry, the poem wasn't for you. I was just practising,I need to say this to a girl who I love." explained Asad.
"If you want to practice, practice in some private place." she told him in a huff.
Asad felt like laughing. Some girls were so stupid. He had thought the same thing about Zoya when he met her. He was done. He was going to go home and and admit that he loved her.
He drove quite confidently, but then lost all his confidence as he came closer to home. He entered the house to see the women watching a movie. He chose to tell Zoya everything at night.
"Ammi, you should be resting." he said.
"I was getting bored so Zoya suggested that I could watch a movie. I agreed, so Najma and Zoya helped to come here." Dilshad explained.
"Okay, I'm in my room if you need me." he told them.
The women continued to watch their movie. It was soon dinner time. Najma laid out the dinner while Zoya went to call Asad. She too needed help to support Dilshad to the dining table.
Asad was startled to see Zoya at his door. He stammered to ask her why was she there.
"Mr. Khan, I need your help to support phuphi, if you could come out. Dinner is also ready." said Zoya.
"I'm coming and of course I will help you, don't fret." Asad said, in a jiffy to go out.
Part 4
They Helped Dilshad to the table. Everyone ate their dinner in silence. After Dilshad and Najma had gone to bed, Asad decided to go over his lines once and then portray them to Zoya.
He went up to Zoya's room and knocked. Zoya opened the door and was surprised to see Asad there. He bent down on his knees and recited his poem. In the end he added, "Do you love me Zoya?"
He said it loudly enough for Najma to hear. She wanted her Ammi to see this so she started recording them. Asad wasn't aware and nor was Zoya.
"Wow Mr. Khan, I'm impressed. I never knew you were so romantic." stated Zoya.
"Can you please answer my question Ms. Farooqi?" said Asad, irritated.
"Yes Mr. Khan, I love you. Mujhe aap qubool hai!" she exclaimed.
Asad got up and hugged Zoya (mitwa in bg). Najma started clapping. Asad did not pay any heed, but after he was done, he pulled Najma's ear.
"Tamatar? You have been very interested in my life these days. So what, I've just admitted my feelings." he teased, not yet aware that she had recorded everything.
"That was very cute Bhaijaan and Ammi ought to see it. So does Ayan Bhaijaan." said Najma and ran to Dilshads room. Asad and Zoya chased her. Dilshad was lost in her own thoughts when Najma entered.
"Ammi, look at this!" Najma bellowed.
"Tamatar, quiet." Asad said sternly.
Najma became quiet. She was yet scared of her Bhaijaan.
"What do you want to show me Najma? Asad let her." said Dilshad, she knew that Asad wouldn't say no to her.
Najma played the video while Asad and Zoya blushed. Dilshad couldn't control her laughter. Her Asad, her angry and stern Asad had fallen in love with the girl he hated until yesterday.
"Asad? Now will I always see this romantic and fun side of you? Thank you Zoya for removing my son from the shell he had put himself in. Come here you too." Dilshad hugged them both. Najma too joined in. Zoya was elated. She had found her family, a family that she could name her own. She did not mind getting married to Asad, she could go on with her mission and he would help her too.
"I think we should all get some sleep now." said Dilshad with a yawn.
They went to their respected rooms and slept soundly. Asad and Zoya finally got some sleep as their minds were lighter.
Next morning, Zoya called her Jiju.
"Assalamualaikum Jiju!" she greeted.
" Walaikumasalaam! How are you?" He asked.
"I am fine. I have a sher for you" said Zoya.
"Go on." he was used her early morning shers.
"Arz kiya hai, zindagi hai pencil, kismat hai rubber,
I have called to give a good khabar!" she recited.
" Waah Waah! What's the good khabar? Did you find your abu?" he inquired.
"No, not yet anyway. I have a bigger surprise.I am sure Appi will be very happy. You guys just fly down to India as soon as possible." she told him.
"Okay we will come, but at least tell us why. You speak to your Appi." said Anwar, he knew that Zeenat could handle Zoya well.
"Hey Appi! You have to come down to Bhopal anyhow." Zoya instructed.
"Zoe, Anwar is saying that you haven't yet found your Abu, so why are you so excited? Why do we have to come to Bhopal?" asked Zeenat.
"The only him I can give you is that I found my family, but not my Abu. There is no trace of him." informed Zoya, disappointed.
"Okay we will come. Anwar will try and get tickets for tommorow's flight." Zeenat assured, she too was curious about what was going on.
"Thanks Appi! Allahfiz!" Zoya was delighted that her Appi was coming.
Asad had heard her conversation. He was confused. She was looking for her Abu?
"I have found my family but not my Abu? What was that all about? Are you looking for your Abu?" Asad threw questions at her.
"Uh, um, yes?" she stammered.
"Zoya, tell me everything. I assure you that I can help you." Asad said in his usual stern voice.
Zoya say down, " Mr. Khan my Ammi was burnt when I was 3. My abu left me in my cousins hands. My abu just left me Mr. Khan." said a weeping Zoya.
"Why didn't you tell me before? I would have helped in all ways." he said in a concerned voice.
Zoya rested her head on his chest.
" You two love birds don't even spare each other in the morning," teased Dilshad, "Zoya, what have you done to my son?"
"I haven't done anything yet phuphi, but I have to make Akdu Ahmed Khan into Asad Ahmed Khan." she replied.
Part 5
"You will have to work a lot on this Zoya" butted in Najma.
"I know, this is my mission 2" said Zoya, absentmindedly.
"Mission 2? What's mission 1?" asked Dilshad befuddled.
"I meant mission 1, slip of tongue." said Zoya quickly.
"Zoya, this could be mission impossible. Nobody can change Bhaijaan." stated Najma.
"Zoya can do anything, don't challenge me." said Zoya.
"Hello? I am here. You are talking about me as if I don't exist." Asad tried to get his presence felt.
"We know that you are here Mr. Khan. I want you to know what my mission is," said Zoya, " Chalo issi baat par ek sher arth hai,
Sabki zindagi ka koi mission hota hai
Mr. Khan ko bhi apni presence felt karana zaroori hota bhai." (this sher is not that great- I felt Zoya without shers was incomplete so I wrote on myself)
"Waah Waah!" burst out Asad, his ego didn't matter anymore. Everyone looked at him in shock.
"Mr. Khan don't behave so normally. Actually I am used to Akdu Ahmed Khan," said Zoya, "There is a sher arth on this
Mere humsafar na baniye hame akele ki aadat hai
Zabaan ko mishti na banaye hame karele ki aadat hai!"
"Najma, is breakfast ready? I have to leave for office." said Asad.
"Yes Bhaijaan, Zoya you come too" called Najma.
"Ya sure" answered Zoya.
The couple went to the dining table. Zoya started chattering about cricket as usual. Asad did not mind anymore. He was finally living his life.
"Allah miya! There is a match day after tomorrow! Mr. Khan please don't decline, if you don't come, I am taking Najma." Zoya informed.
"You can go. I will also accompany you. Najma can come if she wants to." he said with a smile, wishing Najma would say no.
"Bhaijaan, I have my exams next week, I have to study so you go ahead." Najma understood that the duo needed their privacy.
"We will watch you on television." mocked Dilshad.
Asad and Zoya looked up. Zoya had assumed that since Najma wasn't coming it was their first date. This thought did not cross Asads mind but he then realised that if anyone else saw him on television with Zoya, they would think she was his girlfriend. Not that she wasn't, but it wasn't in their culture to take their fianc out.
"I am not coming." announced Asad.
"Okay okay we won't watch you." Dilshad did not want to spoil Zoya's mood.
"Ammi, you won't watch me, but millions of other people will. I don't want that." he pointed out.
"So? Why do you care about others Mr. Khan?" asked Zoya, "This only is your problem Mr. Khan. I'll give you some advice, just chill."
Asad wanted to chill. He wanted to live, but couldn't change suddenly in front of the world. He had to show them gradually.
"Well, issi baat par ek sher arz hai
Baathon mein ho mithaas, to lagta hai banda nek
Forget about others Mr. Khan and give yourself a shake!" Zoya started again.
"You are right Zoya, I need to give myself a shake," agreed Asad, "I am coming. Book any seats you like."
Asad got up and left. Zoya started talking to some picture.
"I am sorry MSD. Don't worry, I will always love you. I won't ever break my promise. Though I love Asad more than you, your picture will always be my wallpaper. I will meet you day after. Love ya." she had forgotten that her to be mother and sister in law were there.
"Zoya, who were you talking to? Who is MSD?" Dilshad inquired.
"Phuphi don't worry, I was talking to Mahindra Singh Dhoni. You know I love him but I love Mr. Khan more. He was just my crush. He is married and now I am getting married." she put in plain words, Dilshad was relieved.
The kitchen was cleared, Najma left for college, Dishad went to rest and Zoya was left alone. She thought of surprising Asad. She knew he didn't like chocolate but he did like coffee. She decided to make a coffee cake. Zoya was entering entering her password in her iPad when Asad entered. Asad waited for her to finish her dance. He remembered the time when she had set a verbal password in his phone. He wanted to fulfil her wish right away. Zoya did not notice him approaching, he pulled her into an embrace leaving her astonished.
"I am sorry Zoya." he whispered.
"Mr. Khan, didn't you already say sorry? Coffee with apology infact?" she asked.
"I thought you would never forget. Remember you wanted me to say sorry? You had even set a verbal passcode on my phone to teach me a lesson. So now I am saying sorry from my heart. The coffee with apology wasn't enough. I have a surprise for you aswell." he told her.
"Okay, I await it impatiently." she replied excitedly.
He gave her a kiss and departed to his room. Zoya proceeded to search for her recipe.
"Zoe, I will come a bit late tonight. Please inform Ammi, allahfiz, I love you." he informed her.
"No Mr. Khan! Please come early please please." she pleaded.
"I have a meeting Zoya, though I will try my best to be back early." he calmed her.
"Please do. I love you too, Allahfiz!" she gave him a flying kiss.
Both had surprises for each other. Zoya was not so sure about hers as Asad had never told her what he liked, she was left to figure out for herself. On the other hand, Asad was so certain about Zoya's surprise as she expressed her likes and dislikes clearly. He had a few connections so he had arranged a private meeting with Mahindra Singh Dhoni.
Zoya tried her best to not make a mess. She had found the perfect recipe. Even though she tried her best, Zoya was Zoya, she dropped flour all around and lost the sauce (again). She was tidying when Najma came.
"Assalaamwalaikum Zoya Bhabhi." Najma greeted, she had decided to call Zoya Bhabhi from then on.
"Najma! Walaikumasalaam, don't call me Bhabhi, you are my BFF first." Zoya told her.
"I want to call you Bhabhi." insisted Najma.
She was going upstairs to her room to freshen up when she smelt the aroma of the cake.
"Zoya Bhabhi, have you baked something?" she inquired.
"Yes, I have baked a coffee cake for Mr. Khan. You know he doesn't like chocolate." said Zoya.
"Bhabhi, have you lost something this time?" teased Najma, giggling.
"Uh, yes," said Zoya, "I have lost the sauce."
To be continued...
Index
Index:
Part 1,2,3,4,5: Below
Part 6: https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/post/83455442
Zoya was sitting in the yard ogling at the stars, engrossed in her thoughts. She did not realise Asad standing behind her with a cup of coffee. He finally came and sat beside her and coughed. She shifted away from him.
"I am terribly sorry Zoya, actually seeing Ammi in this state was such a shock and loosing her is the fear of my life. I am really sorry I did not listen to you." Asad whispered.
"You really hurt me Asad I mean Mr. Khan, physically and mentally." replied Zoya, in tears.
"I am sorry, I will try my best to compensate, here I made you coffee." offered Asad.
"Thank you, and Mr. Khan, I will soon leave Bhopal. I had actually come here for a mission, a mission that now seems impossible. If I don't finish my mission by a month or two, I will go away." informed Zoya.
"You can stay here for as long as you like, Zoya I don't mind." said Asad.
Zoya was in utter shock. She spat out in her coffee wondering what happened to Jahapana Six Packs. Was he actually asking her to stay? She would have to make sure.
"What did you say?" she asked.
"I said you could stay here for as long as you want." he told her.
Zoya started shivering. It was quite a nippy night. Asad noticed this and wanted to put his arm around her. He did not know why but he had the urge to do so. He slowly came closer to Zoya and hesitantly put his strong and muscular arm around her. Zoya was alarmed, what was Jahapana doing?
"It's quite chilly isn't it?" asked Asad.
"Yes, but I don't feel cold. I am fine" said Zoya, but instead of removing his hand, she rested her head on his broad, manly chest.
"The stars are so pretty, just like you." commented Asad.
Zoya started blushing and for the first time was lost for words. What had this Akdu Ahmed Khan done to her? She managed to mumble a 'Thank you'. They sat there gazing at the stars cozily. They did not even notice Najma who was watching them from behind.
"Bhaijaan finally found his soul mate," she thought, " I always knew that Zoya was the right one for him. Ammi will be elated that Bhaijaan found his love."
Najma did not want to disturb them. She walked away, but unfortunately she tripped over some leaves, breaking the silence. The duo was shaken up and turned around immediately.
"T-tamatar since when have been here?" asked Asad, turning red.
"I just came, it's okay I won't tell anyone. I am happy that you chose Zoya to be your bride. You can tell Ammi yourself whenever you want. Allahfiz." she mumbled and walked away.
"What did Najma just say? That you chose me to be your bride? I don't want to marry you, I don't even want to get married. Yeh nikaah mujhe Qubool Nahi Hai." said Zoya, angrily and she too walked away.
"What is happening?" thought Asad, " Why am I getting attracted towards Zoya? I will have to consult Ayan on this."
He wnt to his room and dialled Ayans number.
"Yes Bhaijaan?" asked Ayan.
"Ayan meet me tomorrow at Cafe Coffee Day. I need to talk to you about something important." ordered Asad.
"Okay, see you tomorrow." said Ayan wondering what Asad wanted to discuss with him.
Asad decided to deal with this tomorrow. He needed to sleep, but how would he sleep with so much on his anything?
Zoya too wasn't getting any sleep. Did Jahapana six packs love her? Did she love him? What was going on? She did not have anyone to talk to. Najma wouldn't understand, but it was was worth a try. She left a message to Najma to meet her after breakfast. Najma was with Dilshad. Najma read the message and told her Ammi everything. Dilshad laughed and said that she knew this would happen one day as even she and Rashid hated each other during college. Dilshad also told Najma that after Zoya talks to Najma, she will tell her everything and she would go personally to Zoya and talk to her.
It was a bright sunny morning. Asad received a message from Ayan that he will be at Cafe Coffee Day by 12 pm.
To be continued...
Hey guys I thought if I could post all the chapters together it would be easier for all of you so here are all the chapters.
Part 2
Asad did not have to go to work today as it was some bank holiday. Everyone except Zoya was present at the table for breakfast. This worried Asad, he wondered if she was yet asleep. How could he start his day without her laughter and her stupid shers?
"Where is Zoya?" he inquired.
"She must be coming. Why are you so concerned all of a sudden?" asked Dilshad with a smile, even though she knew.
"Nothing, actually she is there every morning so I asked." he explained, though this wasn't the real reason.
Zoya walked in. She was unusually quiet. The Khan family was now so used to her laughter that all of them were worried. Asad even stated that there is an India-Pakistan match today, but Zoya did not flinch.
"Are you okay Zoya? You are unusually quiet today." asked Najma.
"Yes, I am okay." she responded with a fake laugh as Asad dropped a bottle of sauce.
"Allah Miyan! What's wrong with you Mr. Khan? The perfectionist dropping something? I can't believe it." she said, genuinely laughing.
Asad had deliberately dropped the bottle. He knew that she won't leave a chance to make fun of him, and for the first time he wasn't angry at her.
"Ammi, I don't have to go to office today as it is some bank holiday. I have an important meeting at 1 pm, which I have to attend." Asad informed Dilshad.
"Okay." she nodded.
Asad and Zoya helped Dilshad to her room while Najma cleared up. Zoya had to speak to Najma so she told Asad that she is going to help Najma. Dilshad understood and asked her to do so.
"Hey Najma!" exclaimed Zoya, entering the kitchen.
"Hey! You wanted to talk to me right? Is it about yesterday?" she questioned.
"Kind of, yes," Zoya replied, "Sit."
Najma sat down. Zoya started her story. She had revised what she had to say many a time. Zoya told her how last night when Asad put his arm around her, she did not feel like removing it and when he commented on her beauty, she blushed and even though the coffee he had made for her was bitter, she had it as she did not want to hurt his feelings.
"I think you should discuss this with Ammi, she has gone through love so she would know better." said Najma. She knew this was love but she herself did not want to tell Zoya.
"I should discuss this with PHUPHI of all people? I am talking about her son, you know." said Zoya.
"I am also his sister, you know." replied Najma, in the same tone.
"You are also my best friend. Please help me Najma, I really need it." begged Zoya, she had never asked a favour from anyone, but she no other option.
"Okay, my conclusion is that you love Asad Bhaijaan!" giggled Najma.
"I did not expect this from you. I will talk to phuphi after all." sighed Zoya.
Asad came down at 12:30. Zoya was making soup while Najma was getting the tray ready.
"Najma, Zoya one of you go up to Ammi, I have to leave for my meeting." said Asad.
"Zoya, you go up and I'll get the soup." said Najma.
Zoya nodded and went away. This was her golden chance to speak to phuphi.
"Phuphi? I need to talk to you about Mr. Khan." said Zoya, seriously.
"Don't tell me he needs to see a physiatrist, please." joked Dilshad.
"No." replied Zoya and told Dilshad the whole story, she also added what Najma said.
"Najma is right, this is love." agreed Dilshad.
Asad was listening to all of this. He had actually come to bid goodbye to his Ammi. He was shocked and happy. He too probably loved Zoya and therefor cared for her deeply. He needed Ayan, and he needed him pronto.
Zoya blushed. She couldn't believe herself. She had fallen for Jahapana six-packs, but did he love her back?
"I am sorry, I had to ask you all of this and that also abouth your own son." said Zoya, sheepishly.
"Its okay, I can be your agony aunt too." said Dilshad winking.
Part 3
Asad reached the cafe at the dot of 1. Ayan was as usual flirting with some random girl at the cafe. Ayan saw Asad approaching, and told the girl that he would be back in a few minutes. The brothers sat on an other table.
"Assalamualaikum Bhaijaan." greeted Ayan.
"Walaikumusalaam." replied Asad.
"What happened Bhaijaan? What do you want to talk about? I can solve all your problems, except business ones. Is it about some girl?" Ayan threw questions at Asad.
"You won't believe this, but strangely I want to talk to you about a girl, Zoya. She is the one staying at my house." said Asad, with a funny face. This was a weird situation for him.
"Zoya? Is she the same girl that those men were after? The girl who got you stabbed in the stomach? She was also the girl who saved Najma from those naughty boys. She is staying at your house? I've been looking for her! She is so pretty- and rude." Ayan went on.
"Excuse me Ayan, she is MY girl!" said Asad without thinking.
"Your girl?" Ayan was shocked. His Bhaijaan had fallen in love with the same girl he liked.
"I mean I think I love her and she loves me back, I heard her telling Ammi. Ayan please help me with this matter, how should I admit my feelings?" asked Asad and poured out the whole story. Ayans mood was spoilt. His Bhaijaan had spoilt while usually he was the one who cheered him up.
"Poems should help." suggested Ayan.
"Ayan you know I don't like poems." said Asad.
"Then just go ahead and tell her I love you or flirt with her." Ayan said.
"Good idea, I'll try." replied Asad.
"Bhaijaan, I have some important work, so I'll catch you later." Ayan made an excuse to go.
Asad bade him a goodbye and Ayan just went away. Usually, Ayan could sit with Asad for the whole day if he could. Asad, blinded by love did not understand that Ayan was upset. This meeting ended in only 15 minutes. Asad could not go back home this early. He decided to think about what to say to Zoya. He checked online for some poems. He then came up with:
Love can travel miles away
Just like time does during night and day
But as love travels miles apart
It still has a solid place in the heart
As I express thesefeelings I have for you
I hope you have them for me too
Because my life is empty without you...
He was reading out the poem as a girl passed by. The girl thought he was saying it for her, so she came and sat across him and thanked him in a flirty manner. He was confused. He did not imagine that she thought the poem was for her.
"Why are you thanking me?" asked a clueless Asad.
"Thanks for the poem,"she replied with flirty eyes, "I needed just that, my boyfriend just broke up with me."
"I am sorry, the poem wasn't for you. I was just practising,I need to say this to a girl who I love." explained Asad.
"If you want to practice, practice in some private place." she told him in a huff.
Asad felt like laughing. Some girls were so stupid. He had thought the same thing about Zoya when he met her. He was done. He was going to go home and and admit that he loved her.
He drove quite confidently, but then lost all his confidence as he came closer to home. He entered the house to see the women watching a movie. He chose to tell Zoya everything at night.
"Ammi, you should be resting." he said.
"I was getting bored so Zoya suggested that I could watch a movie. I agreed, so Najma and Zoya helped to come here." Dilshad explained.
"Okay, I'm in my room if you need me." he told them.
The women continued to watch their movie. It was soon dinner time. Najma laid out the dinner while Zoya went to call Asad. She too needed help to support Dilshad to the dining table.
Asad was startled to see Zoya at his door. He stammered to ask her why was she there.
"Mr. Khan, I need your help to support phuphi, if you could come out. Dinner is also ready." said Zoya.
"I'm coming and of course I will help you, don't fret." Asad said, in a jiffy to go out.
Part 4
They Helped Dilshad to the table. Everyone ate their dinner in silence. After Dilshad and Najma had gone to bed, Asad decided to go over his lines once and then portray them to Zoya.
He went up to Zoya's room and knocked. Zoya opened the door and was surprised to see Asad there. He bent down on his knees and recited his poem. In the end he added, "Do you love me Zoya?"
He said it loudly enough for Najma to hear. She wanted her Ammi to see this so she started recording them. Asad wasn't aware and nor was Zoya.
"Wow Mr. Khan, I'm impressed. I never knew you were so romantic." stated Zoya.
"Can you please answer my question Ms. Farooqi?" said Asad, irritated.
"Yes Mr. Khan, I love you. Mujhe aap qubool hai!" she exclaimed.
Asad got up and hugged Zoya (mitwa in bg). Najma started clapping. Asad did not pay any heed, but after he was done, he pulled Najma's ear.
"Tamatar? You have been very interested in my life these days. So what, I've just admitted my feelings." he teased, not yet aware that she had recorded everything.
"That was very cute Bhaijaan and Ammi ought to see it. So does Ayan Bhaijaan." said Najma and ran to Dilshads room. Asad and Zoya chased her. Dilshad was lost in her own thoughts when Najma entered.
"Ammi, look at this!" Najma bellowed.
"Tamatar, quiet." Asad said sternly.
Najma became quiet. She was yet scared of her Bhaijaan.
"What do you want to show me Najma? Asad let her." said Dilshad, she knew that Asad wouldn't say no to her.
Najma played the video while Asad and Zoya blushed. Dilshad couldn't control her laughter. Her Asad, her angry and stern Asad had fallen in love with the girl he hated until yesterday.
"Asad? Now will I always see this romantic and fun side of you? Thank you Zoya for removing my son from the shell he had put himself in. Come here you too." Dilshad hugged them both. Najma too joined in. Zoya was elated. She had found her family, a family that she could name her own. She did not mind getting married to Asad, she could go on with her mission and he would help her too.
"I think we should all get some sleep now." said Dilshad with a yawn.
They went to their respected rooms and slept soundly. Asad and Zoya finally got some sleep as their minds were lighter.
Next morning, Zoya called her Jiju.
"Assalamualaikum Jiju!" she greeted.
" Walaikumasalaam! How are you?" He asked.
"I am fine. I have a sher for you" said Zoya.
"Go on." he was used her early morning shers.
"Arz kiya hai, zindagi hai pencil, kismat hai rubber,
I have called to give a good khabar!" she recited.
" Waah Waah! What's the good khabar? Did you find your abu?" he inquired.
"No, not yet anyway. I have a bigger surprise.I am sure Appi will be very happy. You guys just fly down to India as soon as possible." she told him.
"Okay we will come, but at least tell us why. You speak to your Appi." said Anwar, he knew that Zeenat could handle Zoya well.
"Hey Appi! You have to come down to Bhopal anyhow." Zoya instructed.
"Zoe, Anwar is saying that you haven't yet found your Abu, so why are you so excited? Why do we have to come to Bhopal?" asked Zeenat.
"The only him I can give you is that I found my family, but not my Abu. There is no trace of him." informed Zoya, disappointed.
"Okay we will come. Anwar will try and get tickets for tommorow's flight." Zeenat assured, she too was curious about what was going on.
"Thanks Appi! Allahfiz!" Zoya was delighted that her Appi was coming.
Asad had heard her conversation. He was confused. She was looking for her Abu?
"I have found my family but not my Abu? What was that all about? Are you looking for your Abu?" Asad threw questions at her.
"Uh, um, yes?" she stammered.
"Zoya, tell me everything. I assure you that I can help you." Asad said in his usual stern voice.
Zoya say down, " Mr. Khan my Ammi was burnt when I was 3. My abu left me in my cousins hands. My abu just left me Mr. Khan." said a weeping Zoya.
"Why didn't you tell me before? I would have helped in all ways." he said in a concerned voice.
Zoya rested her head on his chest.
" You two love birds don't even spare each other in the morning," teased Dilshad, "Zoya, what have you done to my son?"
"I haven't done anything yet phuphi, but I have to make Akdu Ahmed Khan into Asad Ahmed Khan." she replied.
Part 5
"You will have to work a lot on this Zoya" butted in Najma.
"I know, this is my mission 2" said Zoya, absentmindedly.
"Mission 2? What's mission 1?" asked Dilshad befuddled.
"I meant mission 1, slip of tongue." said Zoya quickly.
"Zoya, this could be mission impossible. Nobody can change Bhaijaan." stated Najma.
"Zoya can do anything, don't challenge me." said Zoya.
"Hello? I am here. You are talking about me as if I don't exist." Asad tried to get his presence felt.
"We know that you are here Mr. Khan. I want you to know what my mission is," said Zoya, " Chalo issi baat par ek sher arth hai,
Sabki zindagi ka koi mission hota hai
Mr. Khan ko bhi apni presence felt karana zaroori hota bhai." (this sher is not that great- I felt Zoya without shers was incomplete so I wrote on myself)
"Waah Waah!" burst out Asad, his ego didn't matter anymore. Everyone looked at him in shock.
"Mr. Khan don't behave so normally. Actually I am used to Akdu Ahmed Khan," said Zoya, "There is a sher arth on this
Mere humsafar na baniye hame akele ki aadat hai
Zabaan ko mishti na banaye hame karele ki aadat hai!"
"Najma, is breakfast ready? I have to leave for office." said Asad.
"Yes Bhaijaan, Zoya you come too" called Najma.
"Ya sure" answered Zoya.
The couple went to the dining table. Zoya started chattering about cricket as usual. Asad did not mind anymore. He was finally living his life.
"Allah miya! There is a match day after tomorrow! Mr. Khan please don't decline, if you don't come, I am taking Najma." Zoya informed.
"You can go. I will also accompany you. Najma can come if she wants to." he said with a smile, wishing Najma would say no.
"Bhaijaan, I have my exams next week, I have to study so you go ahead." Najma understood that the duo needed their privacy.
"We will watch you on television." mocked Dilshad.
Asad and Zoya looked up. Zoya had assumed that since Najma wasn't coming it was their first date. This thought did not cross Asads mind but he then realised that if anyone else saw him on television with Zoya, they would think she was his girlfriend. Not that she wasn't, but it wasn't in their culture to take their fianc out.
"I am not coming." announced Asad.
"Okay okay we won't watch you." Dilshad did not want to spoil Zoya's mood.
"Ammi, you won't watch me, but millions of other people will. I don't want that." he pointed out.
"So? Why do you care about others Mr. Khan?" asked Zoya, "This only is your problem Mr. Khan. I'll give you some advice, just chill."
Asad wanted to chill. He wanted to live, but couldn't change suddenly in front of the world. He had to show them gradually.
"Well, issi baat par ek sher arz hai
Baathon mein ho mithaas, to lagta hai banda nek
Forget about others Mr. Khan and give yourself a shake!" Zoya started again.
"You are right Zoya, I need to give myself a shake," agreed Asad, "I am coming. Book any seats you like."
Asad got up and left. Zoya started talking to some picture.
"I am sorry MSD. Don't worry, I will always love you. I won't ever break my promise. Though I love Asad more than you, your picture will always be my wallpaper. I will meet you day after. Love ya." she had forgotten that her to be mother and sister in law were there.
"Zoya, who were you talking to? Who is MSD?" Dilshad inquired.
"Phuphi don't worry, I was talking to Mahindra Singh Dhoni. You know I love him but I love Mr. Khan more. He was just my crush. He is married and now I am getting married." she put in plain words, Dilshad was relieved.
The kitchen was cleared, Najma left for college, Dishad went to rest and Zoya was left alone. She thought of surprising Asad. She knew he didn't like chocolate but he did like coffee. She decided to make a coffee cake. Zoya was entering entering her password in her iPad when Asad entered. Asad waited for her to finish her dance. He remembered the time when she had set a verbal password in his phone. He wanted to fulfil her wish right away. Zoya did not notice him approaching, he pulled her into an embrace leaving her astonished.
"I am sorry Zoya." he whispered.
"Mr. Khan, didn't you already say sorry? Coffee with apology infact?" she asked.
"I thought you would never forget. Remember you wanted me to say sorry? You had even set a verbal passcode on my phone to teach me a lesson. So now I am saying sorry from my heart. The coffee with apology wasn't enough. I have a surprise for you aswell." he told her.
"Okay, I await it impatiently." she replied excitedly.
He gave her a kiss and departed to his room. Zoya proceeded to search for her recipe.
"Zoe, I will come a bit late tonight. Please inform Ammi, allahfiz, I love you." he informed her.
"No Mr. Khan! Please come early please please." she pleaded.
"I have a meeting Zoya, though I will try my best to be back early." he calmed her.
"Please do. I love you too, Allahfiz!" she gave him a flying kiss.
Both had surprises for each other. Zoya was not so sure about hers as Asad had never told her what he liked, she was left to figure out for herself. On the other hand, Asad was so certain about Zoya's surprise as she expressed her likes and dislikes clearly. He had a few connections so he had arranged a private meeting with Mahindra Singh Dhoni.
Zoya tried her best to not make a mess. She had found the perfect recipe. Even though she tried her best, Zoya was Zoya, she dropped flour all around and lost the sauce (again). She was tidying when Najma came.
"Assalaamwalaikum Zoya Bhabhi." Najma greeted, she had decided to call Zoya Bhabhi from then on.
"Najma! Walaikumasalaam, don't call me Bhabhi, you are my BFF first." Zoya told her.
"I want to call you Bhabhi." insisted Najma.
She was going upstairs to her room to freshen up when she smelt the aroma of the cake.
"Zoya Bhabhi, have you baked something?" she inquired.
"Yes, I have baked a coffee cake for Mr. Khan. You know he doesn't like chocolate." said Zoya.
"Bhabhi, have you lost something this time?" teased Najma, giggling.
"Uh, yes," said Zoya, "I have lost the sauce."
To be continued...
Index
Anupamaa
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
4