SS: Abbu EPILOGUE/Page 72 - Page 6

Thank you for all the wonderful comments beautifuls! I would love to reply to everyone individually, but I am such a lazy bum. I really appreciate your feedback! THANK YOUUU! MWAH! If you have any questions or suggestions, do leave them and I will try to solve ittt!

yashasvi_88 - Hey good guess, but that's not what happened. You'll have to wait to find out who Ahsaan is/was I'm not going to give it all away. And thank you lovely. Glad you liked it.

meera.rajeev - Aha, your comment made me smile, all those questions and no answers, I'd be frustrated too. My answers are going to be vague, sorries in advance. Just to confirm Asad and Zain aren't blood related. Wth is tanveer's second name? I made up Ahmed LOOOL! Ayaan and Humeira are happily married, you'll have to wait for every other piece of detail. You guys are close with Ahsaan, but there's a deeper story behind this name. He is/was Zoya's son. I only gave hints; you'll have to wait to see how it uncovers. And yes, how do you like Zain and Ayaat? A very complicated relationship, I feel sorry for the non existent character because we have an over protective daddy here! Thanks lovely, I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'll try and answer your questions in the next few updates.

Rarepearl- GAHHH! You get attached to my work? Why are you joking! I apologise again for my disappearance. I will finish this before I go anywhere don't worry!

I've been waiting so long for you to UNRES! I love your long detailed comments Di! I'm glad you like the new characters. Zain's father is not Asad that's for sure or else Zain Ayaat would be eww loool! And I love the way you understand my work! I'm glad I portrayed the emotions properly; I was worried it wasn't going to make sense. I thought people would question me how Zoya accepted Asad back into her life easily. I'm glad no-one did because I don't have an exact answer just yet apart from the fact that they love each other! Yes Dilshad took Zain, and Asad can't stand him. There is a valid reason for that which I cannot reveal just yet!

I will answer these questions soon! And ENAB has been updated finally! I kept my promise this time!

Thank you sooo much! Love you lotsss <3

AND A LONG UPDATE COMING YOUR WAY!

Thank you for your comments beautifuls! THIS IS A VERY LONG PART! I know I haven't replied individually to any comments, know that I still appreciate them and hence the extra long essay! My hectic schedule is draining me atm! Hope you enjoy this. (P.S. Flashbacks are not in order, I will give you glimpses here and there, they'll become clear in the next few parts!)

Chapter Three

'Do you want to hear his cries?'

'What have you done with my baby?' Zoya yelled, falling on her knees. She held her ears, 'Please give him back to me... Tanveer, I beg you'

'You have left him, don't try coming back... He doesn't remember you anymore' She lied effortlessly.

'You only remember those who you have forgotten Tanveer, Asad will never be able to forget me!!'

'Ouch, so much love. Why did you leave?' She laughed,

'You know very well why'

'Tough luck now darling. Should've gone back to him while you had the chance. He came for you on numerous occasions but you had to be a stuck up little wifey! First leave home for two months and then his life forever' She spread her hands dramatically, ' Leaving a little note behind, I heard him screaming for you, poor Asad waited at the end of that park all night hoping you would appear. Wonderful love story' She clapped,

'Aren't you ashamed of yourself Tanveer?'

'I don't have any reason to be' She looked Zoya in the eye making her gasp, 'Stay away Zoya, or else Asad will end up like your little Ahsan...'

'You wouldn't dare'

'I don't do daring' She blew on her nails, 'It's easy to manipulate vulnerable minds' She walked off whilst Zoya stared at her back. Zoya broke into a bellowing cry, her body shook as she wrapped her arms around herself.

ASADDD' She yelled, her voice cracked. His name echoed against the four walls of the hospital yet no one came to heal her wounds. Her heart was bleeding, yet no one glanced a second look at her. You never cheated me. I cheated you by not trusting you' She cried. Those two months away from each other created such distance between us, and I let her do that. SHE LIED TO ME! She killed our baby Asad. I let her kill our baby' Her hands went over her face as she felt something sharp pierce into her heart. She ran back inside the ward to check on her little girl, she picked her up and wrapped her tight,

'I won't let anything happen to you baby... Ammi will protect you' She shivered, cradling her bundle of life.

He slowly lifted his bleeding hands out to her, his lips formed a tiny smile whilst his eyes blurred. Ayaat's hand remained over her mouth whilst she cried meeting his eyes.

'If someone is running towards you with open arms, you should do the same' Ayaat looked down at her hands,

'You never know when you might end up in their place chasing someone who may never turn around to hug you back...'
Ayaat stepped forward; Asad's eyes glistened with joy. He watched her pace forward before breaking into a run. He watched his little Zoya run towards him, her eyes fixed on him. Asad's heart raced picturing a 6 year old Ayaat running towards him towards his arms. His arms remained wide open as she jumped into his arms.

She leaped into his open arms as he wrapped his arms around her lifting her upwards and spinning on his feet. Her legs curled outwards as her arms wrapped him tight breaking into a sob. Her body shook in his hold seeking comfort from his fatherly hold; she suddenly felt protected. After all these years, she was finally in his arms, how much she had yearned for his love and affection. She slowly pulled away from the hug; his hands caressed her hair before cupping her delicate face. His thumb brushed away her tears, she stared innocently at Asad's comforting face, she familiarised his face capturing it in her heart. She had always imagined what her father would look like but there was never a face that she could relate back to those vivid images. Now that she was staring at him, there is no one else in the world that could've been her father but him. The overflowing love from his eyes made her forget all her troubles. Her father was here, he would protect her, he would solve everything. He would love her and keep her with him forever. Her family was now complete.

'Shhh' Asad repeated trying to stop her from crying. He kissed her forehead,

'Abbu' She whispered, Asad started crying, words refused to leave his mouth. She wiped away his tears; he kissed the palm of her hands.

'One more time' He picked her face upwards pleading,

'Abbu' she said softly before burying her face against his chest, 'you're here now aren't you? You'll never leave us right? Don't leave us' She cried, Asad held her tighter resting his chin on her face,

'I'll never leave my bacha. Abbu is here. I'll make everything alright. Our family will be complete. Have you forgiven your Abbu' He held her face again, she nodded in his hold. 'Please don't ever turn away from me. It kills me Ayaat. You have no idea how much I love you' His lips quivered. 'I'm sorry I was never here for you. I didn't know about you' His voice trailed off, 'You and Zoya are the sole reason for my existence or else your Abbu would've died years ago...' Ayaat held her hands over his mouth.

'You're here now Abbu, me and Ammi; We need you!' She cried again.

'Heyy, shhh. These tears...' He wiped a tear on his finger and held it in front of her, 'are priceless. Don't make your Abbu poor by shedding these. These pierce through my heart like sharp knives' He winced, 'that's how your Ammi used to blackmail me' He joked making Ayaat smile. He pulled her in for another hug,

'I love you beta' He whispered kissing the top of her head. He walked her towards the car and secured her inside before walking around and sitting in the car himself. He reached for her face; he tucked her hair behind her ears and rubbed the dust away.

'Are you okaay?' He asked making sure the car was warm enough for her. He took his jacket off and placed it over her, 'It's pretty dark beta, you should have caught a taxi. It's not safe for you to walk alone'

'I'm fine' She replied tired. 'I think there's a strike on, there were none' She spoke quietly.

'You're fine. That's all that matters' He smiled. 'You haven't eaten anything have you?' She shook her head in a no. He reached for a packet and passed it to her, 'eat!'

'No thanks, it will get messy' she replied.

'It's okaay I don't mind' She took the packet and placed it on her lap. Asad watched as she placed a tissue on her lap before taking the wrap out and eating it slowly bit by bit making sure not to make a mess. Asad smiled at his daughter who had taken after him. He started the car and drove off.

Asad helped Ayaat out of the car and walked her inside. She turned around to find him stop in front of the door. She pulled his hand and dragged him inside.

'Please don't tell Ammi about today' She turned around suddenly begging. 'She's going to get really worried and then scream at me. I don't want to add to her problems...' She went on making Asad frown; how much do they have to go through Almighty. Please give me all their worries and problems.

'On one condition' He smiled,

'Huh?'

'Smile' Ayaat laughed nodding.

'I'll make a move. I'll come in the morning' Asad said.

'Oh, are you not staying?' She apoke sadly. Asad stepped forward and placed his hands over her shoulders.

'I'll come back Ayaat. I don't want to waste any time away from you both. I want to take you both home' He shook his head, 'I can't live without you both' He pressed his forehead against hers. He tapped her nose, 'Come on, get to bed. You look tired' He wiped her face, he watched her nod before walking towards Zoya's room. Asad admired the pictures on the wall once again, he touched their faces, he still couldn't believe how Ayaat looked exactly like Zoya. His eyes skimmed over her childhood pictures; she was so beautiful. He touched her smiling lips on the photo; his heart was yearning to see her baby pictures. He walked back to Zoya's room, the sight in front of him warmed his heart. Ayaat had gotten into bed next to Zoya, her arms wrapped protectively over her mother. Asad sat next to a stool beside Zoya. He held her hand in-between his, he admired her sleeping peacefully. Ayaat half opened her eyes to find Asad staring at Zoya lovingly. She smiled before closing her eyes and slowly drifting off to sleep under the watch of her father.

Ayaat watched from the corner of her eyes as her phone flashed over and over again. She carried on mixing the dough ignoring the impatient caller on the other side.

'Ayaat, are you sure you're okaay with that? Beta bring it here I'll help you' Zoya worriedly looked back from the table. Ayaat turned around,

'Ammi please patience. I said It'll be done. Can you not drink your tea in peace? I have cooked before' She hushed her mother who looked at her lovingly with a small grin playing her lips,

'You haven't eaten anything all morning' Her mother reminded her,

'My breakfast is there. Let me just prepare this and I'll eat' She smiled mixing the dough. Once she was done she cleaned up the mess and brought her coffee on to the table. She sat next to her mother and served her breakfast. She looked behind as her phone started ringing again.

'Are you going to pick that up?' Zoya said annoyed.

'Nopeee' She refused popping the 'p' before biting into her sandwich.

'Ayaat' Zoya made a face,

'Ammi' She looked at her mother, 'Okay fine' She stomped towards the phone,

'He-'

'Why does this girl even carry a phone?' The person huffed on the other side. Ayaat raised her eyebrow at the familiarity of his voice.

'Hellooo?' She breathed out hearing curses being thrown at her.

'Hello, Miss Ayaat Khan?' Zain spoke calmly, Ayaat's eyes opened wide,

'YOU?' She gritted her teeth in realisation. 'How dare you call me now? What the hell do you want?'

'Excuse me' He said sharply at the tone of her voice, he breathed out before apologising, 'Listen, I'm sorry' He spoke forcefully, 'Can you-'

'Sorry for what?' She retorted, 'Sorry for being an ass or sorry for abusing me or are you sorry for being a heartless animal? Zoya looked up, horrified at her tone as she watched Ayaat's nose flare whilst she murdered the cucumber in front of her with the knife.

'You- for my behaviour' He replied, 'hear me out'

'Hear you out like you did when your receptionist told you about my Ammi?' She yelled, 'so no I don't think so' She spoke mockingly,

'What the hell is your problem?' He shouted back, 'I'm apologising, I'm sorry. I don't have time for this' He threw at her,

'Then why did you phone me?' Her sarcastic tone burned Zain,

'To ask you if you wanted your job back' He paused, Ayaat walked towards the door hearing the doorbell, 'But I don't think you deserve it' He said insultingly, Ayaat fisted her hands.

'I don't want to work for you anyways!' She screeched irritated opening the door,

'Maam, I didn't ask you' the man at the door replied,

'I wasn't talking to you' She spoke to the man,

'Huh?' Both Zain and the main replied. Ayaat hung up on Zain making him grumble on the other side whilst she stared at the man in front of her,

'Yes?' She grunted,

'The car is fixed, it was in bad shape' He pointed towards her mother's car. 'Here's the bill' He placed it into her hand, Ayaat looked closely and gasped at the cost,

'What the... Are you sure this is the correct bill?' She creased her forehead,

'Yes maan, you could pay it now or come to the garage sometime this week' He suggested,

'I'll come by th-'

'There's no need for that' a voice came from behind, Ayaat's eyes darted towards Asad who was standing behind the man. 'I told you to send the bill to me' He spoke sternly, Ayaat stood still hearing the sharpness in his voice. There was superiority in his presence she had never witnessed before, she looked at her father dressed in a 3 piece suit exactly like Zain but he seemed more loving. She fisted her hands; why was she thinking about him?

'It's fine Abbu' She spoke quietly, Asad looked at her, Ayaat instantly looked down. He took the bill off her and paid the man.

'Ayaat' He turned to find her walking back inside.

'Ayaat, who were you speaking to like that? How many times have I told you t-' Zoya stopped short seeing Asad walking in behind her and Ayaat's grumpy face.

'What happened?' She whispered, 'Ayaat, I know I threw everything at you so suddenly-'Asad stopped her,

'Ayaat, listen to me. I only paid that off because I want to take up both of your responsibility. That includes any costs. It's not to make up for the past 18 years but because whatever I have is for you two' He held her waist and turned her around, 'sorry baby' he held his ears.

'It's okaay' She spoke sadly, she hugged him before taking her plate of food and walking towards her mannequin. Zoya was surprised that Ayaat had accepted Asad, she was about to plead for her to make up with him. She didn't want her to crave for her father's love anymore, she wanted her to feel secure and only Asad can do that. She wasn't so sure when life was going to betray her, she didn't want to leave Ayaat without assurance.

'What happened? Have I missed something?' Asad asked Zoya sitting down next to her on the dining table.

'I should be asking you' She laughed putting her head forward for him to kiss.

'Last night' He replied. 'But everything was fine then, but now' he looked towards Ayaat,

'I don't know' Zoya was confused, 'Oh yeah, I think someone called from your office, she was screaming at him. Let me ask her' Asad stopped her,

'Zoya, why did she join DZ Connect? You never told me. Was it for finan-'

'No no, not quite that. Her course at university requires her to be in placement for 6 months prior to the start of her course. And then remain with that company for god knows what else' She gazed at Ayaat, 'She's spent all her savings for the course fees on my treatment too. Look at her, her dreams were shattered the day she walked out of her placement yet she doesn't seem to be bothered. All she's worried about is looking after me' She looked at a hurt Asad, 'and no Asad, I've taught her to be independent. She wouldn't ask for your help and I wouldn't recommend imposing it on her either. Let her get used to your presence, that's all that matters right now.' Asad placed his hand over hers. He could very well get her admitted to her chosen university without any nonesense but he knew Ayaat wouldn't appreciate it. She wanted to work for it, he would stand by her.

'Zoya, Come home now' He pleaded softly, Zoya looked at Ayaat walking over towards them,

'Abbu, please give us sometime' She held Zoya's hand as she sat on the table in between them, 'It's been 17 years, no not 17, 18 years' She corrected, Zoya's eyes lit up as she looked at Asad who looked at her confused, I'm not saying I don't want to meet the rest of my family, but it's hard accepting all these changes' Zoya wiped something off Ayaat's face whilst nodding along with her, 'we've lived alone for so long, I don't know how to include anyone else' She held his hand, 'Abbu, our destination is with you, no matter what happens we'll have to come you one day. You understand na?' She spoke innocently, Asad laughed,

'She's grown up Zoya' Asad told her,

'I know I don't like this' Zoya grumbled, 'Asad she doesn't act like my little baby anymore'

'Ammi!' Ayaat pouted, Zoya pulled her cheeks.

'But you're turning chubby like you used to be. Asad suno na, you have no idea how fat her cheeks were when she was a baby, she used to-' Ayaat placed her hands over her cheeks, Zoya watched her from the corner of her eyes whilst Asad watched smiling at the two.

'Zoya, stop picking on her' Asad chided,

'Oho baap beti together now?' She joked,

'Not quite' He smiled mischievously, 'is she ticklish like you Zoya?'

'NOOO' Ayaat shrieked jumping off the table and running out of the dining area. Asad helped Zoya out of the dining room; Ayaat placed her hands on her hips and whistled at the two.

'You two should try out for bollywood movies' She teased. Asad placed Zoya on the sofa and came towards Ayaat. Ayaat ran around the table as he chased her, Zoya laughed watching the two.

Asad that way' She cheered him on,

'Abbu no no no please' Ayaat squealed loudly, as she crouched whilst Asad grabbed her from the back and tickled her. She laughed until her stomach started hurting but he wouldn't stop. Tears were forming from the side of her eyes as she lay on the floor out of breath. Asad picked her up and placed her over his shoulder whilst she kicked playfully.

'Ammi please tell him, I'm so tired' She sighed on his back as she stared at the world upside down. Asad sat back against the sofa whilst Ayaat lay on his lap. Zoya opened the draw next to her and brought out 2 albums. Ayaat turned over and leaned against her elbows as her legs flapped on the edge of the sofa. Asad's hand rubbed Ayaat's back whilst he opened the first album. Ayaat covered her face; Asad's fingers instantly went over her baby picture,

'On the day she was born' Zoya explained,

'So beautiful, how much I wish I could've held you' Asad wished. Ayaat rest her head against his chest.

'When was this?' Asad asked laughing; a 2 year old Ayaat was smouldered in chocolate,

'See can you tell she was going to have OCD like you' Zoya teased,

You make it sound like a disease' He rolled his eyes hi-fiving Ayaat.

'Oh look at that one, the first time she sat down and that one when she took her first step. This one, you'll laugh at' She turned the page, 'First fancy dress competition, she went dressed as you' She said sadly before laughing, 'you wouldn't think she would be into frocks and dresses after this' Asad watched carefully as Zoya narrated their memories wishing he was a part of them. However, he felt like he was living the same moments now through the pictures.

'My princess' Asad said suddenly seeing Ayaat with a crown on, she was starting to look like Zoya. 'What was this for?'

'I won first prize for my collection at my first year college charity event' Ayaat replied excitedly, 'they did a catwalk with all my designs' she said proudly,

'Wow really? Designs? Congratulations' He kissed her forehead,

'Tenkk youuu' She said in a baby voice, with a wide grin,

'So talented mashAllah' Asad spoke truthfully, 'Oh that reminds me we have a charity fashion show in 6 days, DZ Connect is hosting. Have you been briefed?' Asad asked Ayaat knowingly,

'I don't work for DZ Connect anymore Abbu' She sat up ignoring the reason he spoke about it, 'Oh shooot, the designs, Ammi I need your thoughts on them' Ayaat jumped up and gathered her clothes'

'What is this for?' Asad asked,

'Rose Fashion show, the same one you're talking about. I've entered on behalf of Bhopal Orphanage. I compete every year for the children.' She explained whilst organising the clothes.

'And wins' Smiled Zoya proudly,

'And why are you not working for DZ Connect?' Asad got up and stood with his arms crossed. Ayaat turned around; she nibbled the side of the lips,

'I was told clearly that I-'

'And were you not clearly told that no-one can be employed or thrown out without the consent of Asad Ahmed Khan?' He raised his eyebrow; he needed to have a word with his employees.

'Yes but he doesn't want-'

'So no questions. You're coming back, I want you to take head of the fashion show as well' He took his coat off, 'and I'm sure you need experience for that university you applied to' Ayaat glared at Zoya who shrugged her shoulders innocently. 'Look at me, not her. You're coming in from tomorrow. You'll be working under Zain' He spoke with finality.

'Where are you going?' Ayaat asked watching him walk towards the kitchen.

'Make coffee for your catwalk' He replied putting the kettle on.

'No I'll make it' Ayaat insisted,

'No your Abbu will make it today. Taste my amazing coffee' Zoya broke into a coughing fit, 'yeahyeah laugh all you want. I've practised. You prepare' He shooed her away. Minutes later Asad brought 3 cups of coffee on a tray and placed it on the table. He went back and brought a cake he had placed in the fridge the night before. He chuckled seeing the curtains put up, made by her scarves and her portable wardrobe railings.

'Are you sure you want me to wear them Ammi?' She spoke looking at Asad. They both laughed,

'He was an Akdu and he was 18th century but he's calmed down now' Zoya showed all her teeth fluttering her eyelashes. Asad narrowed his eyebrows,

'And I should just throw this over you' Asad remarked,

'Okay okay you two. What's the occasion?' She eyed the cake, she read the message and gasped. 'Omg' she jumped clapping, 'it's your anniversary?'

'Was' Asad sat down and lit the cake whilst Ayaat chirped happily.

He held Zoya's hand and blew it together, 'Forever' He whispered. He cut the cake and bought a slice in front of Ayaat who shook her head in a no and pointed to Zoya. Asad forcefully fed her with Zoya doing the same. The loving couple sat with their arms around each other as they prepared themselves for entertainment.

'You ready?' Ayaat asked,

'Presenting Ayaat Zoya Ahmed Khan's 'Whisper' Collection' Introduced Asad with Zoya clapping cheerfully,

'Ammi it's only me, not your sweetheart Dhoni' Ayaat laughed.' 'Here goes' She warned.

------

'Ammi, no ways! I'm not leaving you' Ayaat grumbled Zoya who was forcing her to go work.

'I'll be fine, just leave me on the sofa' Zoya suggested.

'Tell me that was a joke?' She said seriously, 'Ammi, I'm ready to leave everything but not you in this condition. So please quit arguing' She crossed her arms.

'What's happening here? Ayaat are you ready, I'll drop you off' Asad walked in through the open door to find mother and daughter arguing.

'I'm not going anywhere' Ayaat told her father.

'Don't make me carry you there' He looked at her with the most serious of expressions.

'Tell her I'll be fine Asad' Zoya spoke in between,

'I'm taking her out, surprise' He winked at Zoya making her blush.

'Do I have to? I'll work somewhere else...' Ayaat was nervous about seeing Zain and working under him. He will make her life a living hell in that office. Her face scrunched up; jerk!

'For you' Asad got on his knees ignoring Ayaat and placed a red rose on Zoya's lap. He kissed her forehead and picked her up from the wheelchair and walked out of the door knowing Ayaat would follow, sulking ofcourse. Ayaat grabbed her bag and slipped into her heels. She looked in the mirror and let her hair loose. She sighed heavily before running out of the house. Asad smiled seeing Ayaat running towards the car,

'She'll be okaay, right?' Zoya asked nervously,

'I would never let anything happen to my bundle of life' He smiled confidently.

She blew air kisses towards her parents before stepping into the building.

'Good morning lovely' Alaina rushed towards her with open arms, Ayaat hugged her awkwardly hoping her father hadn't told anyone. She didn't want to be treated any differently. Maybe not, she smiled or else Asad would have asked to get her admitted to university without this experience. He had faith that she could do it on her own. 'Your office is up on 4^th floor with sir's; if you need anything let me know' Alaina showed her office before sitting back on her desk. Ayaat's smile faded looking up,

'You look beautiful by the way' Alaina complimented behind her,

'Thank you' Ayaat smiled widely before heading inside the lift. She entered her office room that was bright and beautifully designed. She smiled seeing it so tidy, she walked over to her desk, her hand brushed the side of the table as she admired the room; maybe this wasn't a bad idea after all. Her chain of thoughts were broken when she saw a red sticky note on top of a load of files; 'I want these checked and amended by tomorrow evening'

Ayaat's face dropped as she picked up the folders,

'Oh my gosh, Abbu said fashion show only right?' She fretted, 'Breathe, you can do this. You wanted to do this right? Okay maybe not work as a PA but Fashion was your dream. This is the only way to make it happen. You will make your Abbu proud' She sighed,

'Oh you're here' Ayaat jumped straight hearing someone's voice, the folders fell out of her hand making all the papers fall out and fly everywhere due to the air-con. She flung around gulping, she stared wide eyed. 'YOU?' Zain grumbled.

'Thought you didn't want to work for us?' He questioned, 'Whatever' He stopped her before she could reply, 'Dictation, 5 minutes, My office' He ordered, 'and coffee' He added,

'Excuse me?' She asked dumbfounded,

'You're excused' He smirked turning around,

'Who the hell do you think you are?' She spoke loudly, he turned around.

'Your boss. And your voice' He moved his hands downwards, 'lower it. You work for me. Learn to follow orders. Talking about orders, you can start off by following that one after the dictation' He pointed towards the floor, 'and we aim for a clean and healthy environment to work in, learn to pick up after yourself' He stormed out of the room. Ayaat turned red with rage; her breathing went heavy, her nose flared.

'Grrr! I hate HIMMM' She told herself as she un-fisted her hands. She got on her knees and started picking up the papers. She looked up to find his head popping inside,

'Oh good you know what level you're on. Coffeee' He looked at his watch, 'now?' He closed the door. Ayaat threw the folders on the desk before placing her bag on the floor and removing her notepad. She rushed towards the door before she halted halfway. She looked to her side to find a huge bouquet on the table with boxes of chocolates on the couch and a huge card. She ran forward and kneeled on the floor; she brought her nose towards the bouquet and sniffed it. She sighed admiring the flowers, she lifted the little card attached to it; With Love From Abbu <3

She opened the card and held it in front of her, a huge smile formed on her lips as she thanked Almighty for such wonderful parents.

'Good luck on your first day baby. Keep smiling; your efforts will give you the sky. I know you will make us both proud. And remember, nothing is impossible. We're always here for you.
With Love Ammi and Abbu.

P.S. We love you <3'

'I love you both so so much' Ayaat cried with joy. She jumped up onto her feet; she had gotten the confidence boost she needed. She smiled before getting ready to knock whatever comes her way. She ran out of the door and stood outside Zain's. She knocked 3 times with the hot cup of coffee burning her hand,

'Come in' She heard someone say softly. Ayaat walked in quickly and ran towards his table. She placed the coffee in front of him; he looked up his from file,

'Sit' He asked, She walked round and sat down. 'You do know how important this charity fashion show is?' He asked,

'Huh? Ofcourse I do' She replied as her hands twisted on her lap,

'You think you can take over and manage all this in what, 5 days?' He sniggered,

'Of-course' She spoke nervously, his presence makes her so shiver; she didn't know why. She wished she could just give him a piece of her mind and bring him back down to earth. Like what the hell does he think of himself? She looked at his smirking face wanting to punch him where the sun doesn't shine,

'Do you have prior knowledge?' He watched her murderous expressions before looking back down,

'Well if you attended your own company shows, you would know that I won it 3 years running' He looked up surprised.

'Oh really?' He raised his eyebrow,

'Yes, now could we get back to you doing your work and allowing me to do mine' She sighed showing him the notepad,

'Right' He jumped off his seat making Ayaat look down and hold onto her seat, she watched as he took his overcoat off to reveal his tightly fitted waistcoat, his figure seemed so perfect. She peeked as he rolled his sleeves up half way before walking around her and standing near the glass windows. He closed his eyes,

'There is no problem out there that cannot be solved with a smile' He remembered telling her. Why was he finding it difficult to apply the same words to his situation? He opened his eyes before pushing the windows open and taking in the breeze of cold air,

'So the theme this year is white and red. The judges have been finalised. I want you to go over the details with the design once-' He turned around and paused at the sight in front of him, he blinked a few times watching her hair dance as the sudden gush of wind blew on her. He watched her lips move as she nervously bit her pen a few times, he admired her features, her eyelashes fluttered innocently whilst she tried keeping up with his voice. She looked up hearing him pause, she looked into his eyes. He found himself getting lost in those light brown orbs, for a moment he saw a glimpse of vulnerability, her overpowering innocence poured from her eyes; her pure soul evidence of the woman she was. Zain felt a sudden pull towards her as his eyes searched her soul for comfort. She tore her gaze away suddenly,

'You were saying...' She coughed,

'Yeah' He shook his head, what was he thinking; she was anything but innocent, 'Come over here' She did as she was told, he revealed some canvases with some designs. 'I got a message that you'll also help with our own collection at the Fashion Show' He looked at her from the corner of his eyes,

'Huh? Really?' She asked confused,

'Just got the memo, you better be good' He said quickly, he bit his tongue in the next moment,

'Excuse me?'

'There's a meeting with the designs team in about 2 hours. I need my schedule for the rest of the day so get going' He walked back towards his seat. He turned his body slightly,

'Sometime today Miss Kh-' He stopped short, 'Ayaat' he sat down. Ayaat ignored his hesitation and walked towards the door, 'the dictation will have to wait' He spoke behind her and get those mails sent out. All the details are on those folders' He spoke without looking, Ayaat stood dumbfounded; he thinks I'm some kind of machine. She nodded before closing the door shut and getting back to work.

'Hello, no no I'm good Abbu' She lied over the phone, 'Thank you for the flowers. Where are you guys?' She asked whilst typing,

'We just had lunch. I'm taking your Ammi to meet your daadi in the evening. I can't hide this surprise from her any longer. I'll send a car to pick you up around 5' Asad told her,

'I have a meeting at 6 so I'll try to be there for half 7ish. Can you text me the address?' She sighed,

'Can't you cancel it? No no, don't worry. I'll pick you up then' He said, 'Are you okay, Ayaat? Please tell me if there is anything wrong...'

'No I'm good Abbu. I'll talk to you later, just going to meet the designs team. Bye' She hung up instantly,

'How do I tell you Abbu? This Zain is a monster! Liar as well! He is torturing me' She wiped her face dropping the last folder onto the ground. She placed her head on the table; Thank God she finished these for tomorrow. She could relax now. She sat upright hearing her phone ring,

'Hello, if the mails are done, meet me in the conference room. And bring the DZ accounts file, I think Alaina left it on the shelf' He put the phone down before she could answer. She placed her hand over her rumbling stomach; she took a sip from her water bottle before pushing herself up. She searched for the file Zain wanted before running out of the door.
'Alaina, could you put these up?' She passed some printouts to Alaina, 'I literally have 5 minutes. Please' She begged.

'Hey you! Take it easy' Alaina spoke concerned, 'have you taken your lunch break?' She came around and took the files off her,

'No I will after this meeting' She replied picking up the receiver, 'Hello, It's Ayaat calling from DZ Connect, have the logo's been sent? No? Ermm, when will they be? No no not to that email. Sir wants them directly to his. Okaay, it's zainkhan@gmail.com. Hello, no no' She waved at Alaina as she walked towards the stairs,

'It's not Zen, it's Zain Khan. Z for Zombie, A for As- Animal, yeah, I for er Igloo, N for er er Nakchare, I meant Newt. KHAN, K for Kill, H for err' Ayaat struggled to think of words; there were many but they were too, unprofessional. 'H for Horse, A for Alien, N for Nasty @gmail.com. Yeah yeah, could you send those before 5? Thanks love. Byeee' Ayaat hung up and passed the phone to one of the passing employees to take it down. She turned around and squealed,

'Are we done there Miss Ayaat?' He spoke scornfully, his hands resting in his pocket. She nodded quietly,

'Let's go' He walked past her, Ayaat hit her head before following him inside.

Ayaat forced herself to stay awake during the design meeting. Yeah sure she was into fashion but she cared about food more. She was hungry and she was tired, there's so much a person can take in one day. If Zain actually wanted her out, he was doing a fine job right now because she wanted run out of this place.

'Is that understood, we need your final designs in 2 days max, it needs to be tried and tested before it goes up' Naeem spoke to Ayaat, 'Pop into the department and have a look at the working collection. I know it's last minute but we'll have to try and get it done. That's all for now' He nodded towards Zain,

'Okay that's all team, good work and now let's get cracking. Ayaat come here' She watched the team leave before walking up to him, 'Have the final submission taken place?' He asked texting away,

'Huh?'

'Competition. Charity Fashion Show? Keep up' He snapped,

'Haan, yeah.' She nodded,

'Give me the list' He put his hand out, Ayaat rushed towards her folder and took out a couple of sheets and rushed back towards him. In her hurry she tripped over her heels and fell over him, Zain became alert as he held her falling body on top of him. Ayaat closed her eyes as she fell stomach flat over his legs, he got up in time to hold her half way up. He turned her over slightly and stared at her tightly shut eyes, his eyes lingered over her lips for a moment. She was only a few centimetres away from his face as she held her breath. She tightened her body in the next moment and buried her face in his chest. He was taken by surprise at first, he closed his eyes taking in her intoxicating scent, he found himself losing his senses. Ayaat shivered feeling slightly light headed; Zain pushed her off him with slight force. He held her by the shoulders and stared at her, Ayaat felt shaken as she blinked a few times. She stood like a statue as she passed him the sheet of papers, he slowly took it and sat down feeling slightly flustered.

'Ahem' He coughed, 'Oh, you're on the list' He told her the obvious. 'Are you sure you'll be able to manage, you'll be competing with professionals.' He taunted,

'I've won 3 times and it's for charity' She gave him blank expressions, he watched her carefully.

'Oh right as you say. Just make sure everything is complete from our side. It is our show, DZ Connect comes first. Please take care that everything goes according to plan' He told her. He faced the door hearing someone knock. 'Come in' He went back to his phone,

'Ayaat, I've brought you-' Alaina was cut short by Zain,

'Oh is that the sandwich I ordered' Zain put his hand out,

'Did you order, oh right no of course you must've' She placed it in his hand, 'take a break now' She whispered to Ayaat before leaving.

Ayaat stood next to him whilst he ate and talked about the fashion show and the next upcoming events. He peeked from the corner of her eyes, she looked bored and tired, he assumed she was just trying to ignore him.

'Are the logo's done?' He asked her,

'Yes sir, they'll be sending those by 5 pm' She replied walking back to her seat finally thinking of a good excuse she was going to use. She picked her stuff up,

'Oh and did you give them my email' He raised his eyebrow stopping her on her tracks,

'Yesss' She replied meekly, she watched him get up,

'Z for Zombie' He took a bite out of his sandwich and chewed taking slow steps towards her, Ayaat gulped. 'A for Asshole, no Animal, I for Igloo, N for Nakchare, no for Newt!' He smirked, 'The last time I checked, alphabet phonetics were something else' He stepped closer whilst she backed up against the wall. Ayaat looked both ways as he closed in on her. He brought his nose close to hers; Ayaat closed her eyes as she took in his scent. Her knees wobbled slightly as her heart threatened to pop out of her, 'Do you want me to continue?' He whispered, Ayaat shook her head in a no. Zain stepped back and looked at her, he mentally scolded himself for scaring her again; he got carried away. She was shaking against the wall; he put his hand forward when her eyes shot open. She walked around him and grabbed the folders on her way out of the room.

Zain ran behind her, 'sorry' He whacked his thigh. Why does he never keep calm when he is around her? He had never scared anyone like he does with her, yes he was a mean boss, but has never taunted anyone so much as her. He brushed his hair back, what the hell was wrong with him. Here he was trying to do what his Chachu ordered but he was making things worse.

'Hello? Daadi, I'll be home early today' He told Dilshad over the phone. He then went to use the office phone, 'Hello Alaina, tell Ayaat the meeting has been postponed till tomorrow. She can go home around 5' He looked at his watch, 'I'm leaving so try and get Naeem to go over the rest of the meetings. Yeah, that's fine' He put the phone down and breathed out a heavy sigh.

'Hello Abbu, yeah? No no I'll make my own way. Okay sorry, the car will be here in 10 minutes? Cool, see you and Ammi there' Ayaat rest her head against the chair, she pressed her eyes shut. Why did she feel so weak under his gaze? He was taunting her all day yet she remained quiet. And the way he closed in on her, it wasn't the fear that made her shiver, it was his growing proximity. Why? Why was she so affected by this monster? She hadn't taken a break all day and neither had she eaten anything. Only a monster like him could look passed all that and make her work like a slave, wasn't she just an apprentice? She opened her eyes slowly to find the bouquet of flowers in front of her; her tensions eased a bit seeing the beautiful coloured petals in front of her. She won't give up on this job, if not for her own sake, but her parent's faith. Her mother had worked way too hard for her to get such a good opportunity; she wouldn't spoil it for anyone. She picked her bag up and walked out of the room.
She strolled past the huge walls on the 1st floor and once again she found herself standing in front of that covered frame. She didn't have to remove the covering; the wind blew the sides of the scarf revealing the woman in the picture. Ayaat was shocked; she stepped closer to find her mother's portrait on the wall. Her father loved her Ammi so much, this place was made after her; she looked teary eyed at the bold writing. Those words were spoken by her Ammi on her first day to college. It all came back to her, her heart warmed up at the sudden realisations. She rushed outside the office to find the driver waiting for her.

'She'll be here any minute now' Asad stepped inside his house with Zoya. She looked around the house with teary eyes; nothing had changed in the last 18 years. It was just as she left it. Asad helped her walk towards the sofa, 'I think Ammi is reading namaaz' He said happily, they looked towards the sudden noise. Dilshad dropped the pot she was holding, Zoya smiled seeing her mother after so long.

'Zoya' She whispered, Asad and Zoya looked closely to find her staring elsewhere. She followed her gaze to find Ayaat standing outside. They both watched happily as she hesitated to enter, she was about to knock when her eyes rushed towards Asad and Zoya. She waved at them both making Dilshad move her reluctant eyes towards Asad and Zoya. Her hand flew over her mouth as she looked at Zoya and then Ayaat. Asad took a step towards Ayaat when his eyes darted towards the person standing behind her. She entered the house slowly before she held her head suddenly. Asad's body stiffened watching Zain's face stare at Ayaat's back, he looked back at a lost Zoya. Ayaat felt dizzy, her eyes blurred and the next thing she knew she felt the ground slip from under her feet. Zain ran forward and caught her just in time. He stared shocked realising it was Ayaat, as a million questions raced through his mind, he hadn't realised Asad watching with careful eyes. Asad looked at Ayaat's drained, pale face before glaring at Zain. His hands fisted beside him as he fumed with anger...

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OMG! This was like 16 pages on Word! I got carried away!

I know there's still a lot of questions left to be answered, patience, I will do in the next few updates! This was meant to be the less confusing part and split into 2 parts but lazy lazy lazy me! I hope I didn't bore you all!

Do leave your comments behind beautifuls, and ignore the mistakes! I am too tired, wrote this on my phone! SKIM READ IT! *hides*

Once again, thank you for your supportive comments. They make me smile! MWAH! <3

'She's grown up Zoya' Asad told her

this ws awesome 😳

,

'I know I don't like this' Zoya grumbled, 'Asad she doesn't act like my little baby anymore'

😆

'Ammi!' Ayaat pouted, Zoya pulled her cheeks.

'But you're turning chubby like you used to be. Asad suno na, you have no idea how fat her cheeks were when she was a baby, she used to-' Ayaat placed her hands over her cheeks, Zoya watched her from the corner of her eyes whilst Asad watched smiling at the two.

'Zoya, stop picking on her' Asad chided,

'Oho baap beti together now?' She joked,

awww❤️

'Not quite' He smiled mischievously, 'is she ticklish like you Zoya?'

'NOOO' Ayaat shrieked jumping off the table and running out of the dining area. Asad helped Zoya out of the dining room; Ayaat placed her hands on her hips and whistled at the two.

'You two should try out for bollywood movies' She teased. Asad placed Zoya on the sofa and came towards Ayaat. Ayaat ran around the table as he chased her, Zoya laughed watching the two.

Asad that way' She cheered him on,