Zoya was sitting on the bed. All the guests had left and she was exhausted. Najma brought her to the room earlier and helped her settle in the position she was in now. She was itchy and uncomfortable. She really needed to change into something comfortable soon.
"Where is Asad? When is he coming?" she thought to herself. When she last saw him, he was saying good bye to the guests. She really was feeling hot, dizzy and very nauseous.
"Najma." Zoya called out.
"Ji Zoy...Ji Bhabi?" Najma entered the room giggling. "I really have to get used to calling you Bhabi" Najma stopped when she saw Zoya. She looked pale and almost out of breath. "Are you alright Bhabi? Let me call Bhaijaan rightaway."
Najma ran out and found Asad helping their mom putting away the gifts all the guests brought.
"Bhaijaan.please come quick. Bhabi is not feeling well."
Asad and Dilshad ran to the bedroom and found Zoya laying in bed, curled up like a baby. She was in visible pain and tears were rolling down her eyes.
"Zoya Zoya are you alright? Zoya...talk to me look at me..Zoya" Asad screamed.
Zoya's expression suddenly changed and she seemed almost calm. Her forehead was sweaty but she was smiling.
"Zoya what happened?" Asad was still in shock from seeing his wife in such a condition.
"I am fine now. But I will be better if you stop gripping my arms so tight. You are hurting me. Now get me some water please. I'll be fine" Zoya said, smiling weakly.
By the time Asad came back with the water, Zoya was having another spasm. She turned paper white once again and was biting her lips to stop from screaming.
Asad almost dropped the glass but collected himself when he noticed his Ammi softly rubbing Zoya's back and soothing her. When she noticed Asad she calmly said to help her take Zoya to the car and then ordered Najma to bring the bag they prepared as well.
It finally dawned on Asad what was happening.
It was the night of Zoya's baby shower and now she was in labor. They needed to go to the hospital as soon as possible because Zoya was going to give birth to their daughter.
I will be a father tonight.
He easily picked up Zoya, who was feeling better now, in his arms. They looked at each other, smiled and then Asad kissed her forehead.
It will be the most special night of their life.
Cricket
