Sorry for the late update. Been too ill! I hope you enjoy this, it was written on my phone and I'm too lazy to even spell check. Creativity is on leave so bear with me. Hope it doesn't bore you guys, it's quite long! Once again thank you so much for your wonderful comments!
Chapter Four
'Ayaat!' Asad jumped forward and pulled her away from Zain's firm grip. Zain watched his open arms and then Asad's worried state, 'what happened Ayaat, beta...' Asad picked up her lifeless body and ran towards his room asking Dilshad to call a doctor. Zain stood at the entrance without blinking; his ears forced his eyes to look over towards the struggling woman. Zoya was flapping helplessly; she forced herself to get up. She stook a forceful step forward only to lose her balance. She found instant support, she stared towards the supporting hands and then at the owner of those hands. Zain stared shocked at Ayaat's spitting image, except she seemed older and mature; this must be her mother. He watched her tearful eyes thanking him before directing him towards Asad's room. He wrapped his arm over her shoulder and took her inside.
'Ayaat, my bacha. Please get up' He caressed her face; he tucked her hair behind her ears. 'Ammi water' He looked back pleading to his mother,
'I'll just bring it' She ran outside the room and brought back a glass of water. Asad took it off her and placed a little on his palm before sprinkling it over. Ayaat's eyes tightened at the sudden coldness to her face, her eyes moved side to side before flying open. Her blurry eyes took seconds before she could finally focus. Her chapped lips reluctantly opened, Asad lifted her head upwards and made her sip a bit of water. Her head fell back instantly. Ayaat's hand pressed her forehead feeling a headache coming her way. Asad removed them and massaged her head himself; he continuously brushed her hair back,
'Don't worry, doctor is coming' He spoke softly,
'I'm fine' She replied weakly,
'Yeah we can see how fine you are' Asad remarked, almost shaking. Ayaat brought her fingers and caressed his hand before placing them in his larger ones. He held her as he watched with wide eyes, she smiled looking at Zoya.
'Tell him I'm fine' She said feeling him shake.
'He over-reacts I know' Zoya rolled her eyes wiping away her tears making Asad do the same. 'Don't scare us like that again' She warned,
'You two seriously' She stopped seeing a beautiful elderly woman admiring her parents banter. She watched the overflowing love pouring out of her eyes for them both before the same eyes fell on her. Her smile grew wider seeing the same love for her, her eyes moved instantly towards the face behind her. Her eyes grew wide seeing his miserable expressions as he leaned against the door away from their little gathering. She rested her tensed shoulders meeting his lonely eyes; her heart melted instantly.
'Doctor is here' Zoya looked up, Asad made space for him to sit down on a low chair near her.
'I'm fine' Ayaat breathed heavily sighing as she looked at everyone's intense gaze on the doctor waiting impatiently; she was so sure the poor doctor was finding it difficult to check her. The doctor looked at Asad,
'She's fine' He smiled, 'I don't think she has eaten anything hence the reason she fainted' He looked at her to confirm his doubts. Ayaat looked down, 'I'm prescribing some vitamins for her weakness and pain killers for her headache' He scribbled some notes down, 'And make sure she reduces her stress' Asad looked at Ayaat peeking at him as he took the prescription off the doctor,
'Thank you doctor' He smiled watching him leave. He then turned towards her, 'What did you eat today?' He questioned realising she lied to him,
'No' He put his hand up before she could reply, 'Rest' He spoke calmly, Ayaat looked at Zoya horrified. He turned his head towards Zain making him stiffen under his gaze. Ayaat looked up to find tension arising between them.
'Outside' Asad breathed sharply at Zain as he walked past him,
'Abbu' Ayaat called from behind, Zain instantly turned around and stared at her.
'Zain!' Asad's voice called from behind, Zain's moist eyes instantly dried up. He watched Zoya carefully before closing the door behind him.
He stood firm on his feet as he stared towards the ground whilst Asad breathed sharply. He looked up slowly with teary eyes; Asad had finally found his family, a family that he wasn't a part of. He was happy for the man in front of him who had spent the last 18 years yearning for his wife. Yes, he had never shown it but Dilshad Daadi had told him about the love of his life. He gazed towards the door, Ayaat was his daughter?
'What did I say to you Zain?' Asad's voice brought Zain back from his thoughts. Dilshad closed the front door and turned around, her eyes turned wide as she ran to Zain's side. Asad put his hand up to stop her from talking,
'I had warned him Ammi, I gave him a chance to rectify his mistake. But what did he do?' He stepped forward. Zain didn't move an inch; he remained staring at Asad without blinking.
'I didn't know...' Zain whispered,
'You didn't know? You DIDN'T KNOW?' His voice rose, he kicked the stool in front of him, 'What do you have to know to behave humanly around someone?' He asked,
'I should be asking you' Dilshad threw at him holding onto Zain, Asad fisted his hands,
'I know what I have to know Ammi, his mother-'
'That's enough Asad' Dilshad stopped him,
'What about my mother?' Zain replied blankly, wanting to hear what else his mother had ruined for him. He wanted to add another reason to the reasons why he hated her already.
'Your mother...' Asad started, disgusted as he pointed his finger at him,
'Asad!!' He looked towards a horrified Zoya being supported by Ayaat, 'What are you saying?' She scolded; Asad walked over to them both and hugged them tight, his body shaking,
'If anything happens to you, I won't live' He repeated over and over again, 'I can't lose you again' Ayaat rubbed his back whilst fixing her eyes on Zain, her heartbeats rising by the minute.
'Asad, is he...' Her voice was faint, she watched him carefully. Asad nodded at her, Zoya walked over to him with the support of Ayaat, she looked at him as he stood there with his head down. He looked up slowly, his eyes red. Zoya's shaky hands reached up to his face, she caressed his face as he stared at the love overflowing from her motherly eyes. Ayaat let go of her mother and stood away wondering what was happening. Asad watched from afar as Zoya accepted the child of the woman who took away her everything.
'I'm sorry' Zain spoke earnestly hoping she would not hate him. The hatred in Asad's eyes kills him every day. He tried so hard yet he ended up doing the opposite. He told him not to hurt this girl yet he did; maybe it's the blood running through his veins. His mother hurt this family and he was doing the same.
'You have nothing to apologise for beta' Zoya held his shoulder for support. 'This was never your fault' She read his eyes, Ayaat tilt her head confused. 'Help me sit down' Zoya asked him putting her hand out to stop Asad from coming forward.
Dilshad caressed Zoya's face cupping it and kissing her forehead.
'Where have you been my child?' She cried, 'You abandoned your Ammi for 18 years. Did you not remember this old woman all these years' She sighed questioningly before looking at Ayaat. Zoya and everyone followed her gaze to a frozen Ayaat.
'What happened 18 years ago?' She spoke slightly hurt trying to take in the emotions pouring out into the atmosphere; she looked at Zain who tore his gaze away. 'Will someone tell me?' She questioned Zoya who looked at her with sad eyes. 'I'm finding this difficult you know that? All these years we were alone, I asked you so many times. I remained quiet in the end accepting that I had no-one but you. And then Abbu came into our life' She looked from Asad to Zain, 'so many questions' She indicated their tension and their relationship, 'My head is bursting. Why are you all hiding all this from me? Ahsaan is not here mama, is this because of that' Asad looked at Zoya with Ayaat bursting into tears remembering their horrifying past. 'If he was here...' She wiped her tears, Dilshad got up and hugged her.
'It's nothing beta' Ayaat returned her hug,
'Your daadi' Asad introduced,
'I know' She said stubbornly as a matter of fact, Asad shook his head smiling. He needed to make up to her. There were so many questions that needed to be answered, how long was he going to protect her from all this. He looked at Zain; he didn't quite know to what extent his mother had scarred them. He looked at Zoya, neither did he, he told himself.
'Come with me...' Dilshad pulled her into the kitchen and made her sit down. She lifted the covered plates and presented Kheer in front of her. 'I was wondering why Asad was asking me to make this' She smiled, 'Zain, come here' She called out, 'Here, eat. I'm sure you haven't eaten anything all day' Ayaat looked up from her bowl,
'He stuffed himself' She spoke under her breath making Zain raise his eyebrow. She rolled her eyes before getting back to her food. Zain watched her eat, smiling at her making delightful noises and sighing. She peeked from her eyes as he looked at her apologetically. She smiled at Dilshad who was brushing her hair continuously.
'Daadi' Ayaat spoke feeling slightly weird using that word, 'What's the story behind these two?' Ayaat looked at her parents on the sofa. 'And is there anyone else I haven't met' She looked at Dilshad with gleaming eyes.
'There's a lot of people you haven't met yet. They'll be over the moon when they see you' Dilshad replied, 'and as for these two. Their love exceeds limits. If one is hurt, the other bleeds in its place. They say hatred gives birth to the deepest of love. It has proven true for them. They couldn't stand each other.' Dilshad laughed thanking the Almighty for bringing them together along with her beautiful granddaughter. Zain looked towards Ayaat as she slipped into deep thoughts. She caught him staring at her, he moved his eyes instantly.
'Naaani'
'Daadi'
Everyone looked up to find a young male run inside followed by Humeira and Ayaan. Behind them, another young girl entered with Najma on the phone.
Ayaan and Najma stopped in their tracks whilst the younger ones greeted Zain. Dilshad and Ayaat walked towards them. Najma stared with wide eyes at Ayaat, her eyes moved towards Zoya who got up with the help of Asad. They both shrieked making everyone hold their ears; Najma ran towards Zoya and embraced her with open arms.
'Bhabieee' She cried with joy, 'I missed youuu' She looked at her face and then hugged her again, 'Thank you so much Almighty' She hugged her tighter. She cupped Zoya's face, 'She is beautiful' She nodded at Zoya before looking at Ayaat making her crease her forehead, 'You both look exactly the same' She shrieked, 'Bhaijaan's wishes had come true. He wanted a daughter just like you' She walked over to Ayaat, 'I'm your phoopie, your abbu's sister' Ayaat took in the information with an eager nod,
'We call her tamater' Zoya laughed,
'Bhabie' Najma chided,
Ayaat hugged her, 'It's nice to meet you... Finally' She looked at Asad with a smile on her face.
'And I'm your Chachu' Ayaan said picking her up and spinning with her.
'Oi Rabart, yahan aajaa' Zoya joked, Ayaan tapped Ayaat's nose before winking at her and walking towards Zoya and hugging her.
'Where did you go Mona?' He spoke sadly, he held her tighter, 'We missed you so so much' He let go. 'What's wrong with you, are you okaay?' He looked at her shaking legs,
'Accident' She shrugged her shoulders,
'Musibat eh?' Zoya smacked his shoulders. She looked at Humeira and opened her arms towards her. Humeira hugged her tight.
'Ayaat beta, meet your brother. Your Ayaan chachu's son' Najma introduced Hussain.
'Heyy' He said taking her hand in his before side hugging her.
'And your sister Innayah' She introduced her daughter. Innayah jumped towards Ayaat and hugged her and Hussain together. She pulled away and looked at Zain,
'Bhaijaan, comeee' Innayah pulled Zain into the group hug. His arms wrapped over Ayaat. She reluctantly placed hers over his back.
'Oiii?! How could you all leave me out?' Hassan entered with gift boxes and dropped them onto the floor. Ayaan face palmed himself,
'Oi daffar, I didn't make you carry them safely so that you could damage them' Ayaan scolded.
'Abbu what's going on?' He brushed his hair back seeing Ayaat, 'Hey don't leave me out' He came towards the group with open arms.
'She's your elder sister, so chill' Zain whispered to Hassan making him frown,
'Hey there beautiful' Ayaat opened her mouth wide before blushing. 'I'm the handsome one out of them all. And his brother' He winked at her nodding towards Hussain before getting into a group hug.
'What's going on here?' Asad crossed his arms. The group split hearing his voice. He put his hand out towads Ayaat and pulled her out from the crowd. 'Come on, I have something to show you' He pulled her hand, she followed slowly. He turned around and looked at her,
'NOOO' She squealed as he picked her up and threw her over his shoulder, 'Abbu, I'm not a child. Let me down. I'm fine. Pleaseee' She pleaded. He pulled her and held her in his arms cradling her. Everyone laughed, she gave him warning eyes, 'Abbu, let me down NOW' She ordered with wide eyes staring above at his loving eyes. She rolled her eyes and folded her arms at his antics, he put her down. He closed the door behind them,
'This room will be waiting for you' He said finally, Ayaat spun on her feet as she looked around the room. She burst out laughing,
'Abbu, I'm not two years old' She giggled as her eyes went over the bright pink walls and furniture. There were enough toys to donate to all the children in the world.
'Are you sure?' He asked confused, 'you look two to me' He grabbed her by the neck with one arm.
'Very funny. This room needs to be changed' She watched from the corner of her eyes as his eyes lit up at the thought of her coming home.
'This was your Ammi's room' He told her, she looked at him confused. 'She came as a guest and made a place in my heart' He grinned widely,
'Bollywoood!' She laughed, she walked over towards the window. She opened the windows and felt the breeze brush her hair making them dance in a frenzy. She turned around towards Asad who was admiring his little girl,
'Abbu? DZ Connect was made for Ammi right?' He nodded,
'We always clashed over clothing. I used to judge everyone by their appearance' He shook his head, 'She was interested in clothes, she believed in creating fashion rather than following. I was supposed to hand over the final deeds to her on our first anniversary as a gift but' His voice cracked, 'I couldn't' He smiled sadly,
'But your love was more than anything you could have given her' She took his hands, 'that place is a witness of your undying love for Ammi'
'Ayaat, that place-'
'I love it Abbu. I'm enjoying it' She lied, 'Nothing is easy, and this fashion show means so much to me and all those charities we're working for. I'm only here for 6 months, I want to make the most of it' She watched his eyes tone down, 'I'm sorry, I didn't mean to lie to you, didn't want you to worry. I busied myself and Zain' She watched him fist his hands, 'is a good boss' She smiled. She hugged him, 'I'll just come' He shook his head and let her go as he looked around the room and face palmed himself.
She looked into the dark sky and sighed heavily sitting on the bench. She looked back at the house, their laughter echoing back in her ears, a lone tear escaped her eyes.
'Is this all true?' She asked softly wiping away her tears. 'I've never dreamt of having so many relations, being accepted was a far cry. This feels like a dream I don't want to wake up from but why am I so restless? Why does it seem like they're hiding something from me?' She breathed into her hands. 'Ahsaan, I have never seen you. Yet the mention of your name has made a relation with me. I don't know why, but I need you.' She looked up into the sky, 'I don't know why but I need your strength by my side. We have our Abbu's protection over us. Why did you leave me?' She looked to her side to find her phone ringing. She breathed out,
'Heyy! I'm good thank you' She smiled, 'You're back? That's great. Yes yes. When? Tomorrow? Really, that's great. See you soon. I missed you' She laughed before hanging up. She closed her eyes momentarily,
'Ahem?' Ayaat's eyes opened wide, she looked up to find Zain standing there. He stared at her before settling down beside her. She looked away moving slightly,
'Coffee?' He held the mug in front of her. Ayaat looked at him surprised, his expressions were calm. Her forehead creased, Zain gazed at her. She shook her head and took it off him. She held it in between her hands staring ahead of her.
'Have you poisoned it?' She spoke smiling,
'I wish' He snorted; 'Daadi sent it' He smiled.
'Why did you lie?' She asked finally looking to her side, he remained silent.
'So I'm not really related to you by blood?'
'Thank the Almighty' He looked up, her mouth opened wide.
'Close your mouth and drink up' He fussed with his phone.
'Why are you being nice?' She asked,
'When was I ever-' He stopped meeting her gleaming eyes. She looked mesmerising as the wind blew her hair behind her as her head remained tilted to one side waiting for him to answer. She was the same girl he had met the other night. The next moment his thoughts were confirmed as he watched her drink her coffee and wiping off her milky moustache laughing. She got up,
'Kaddooos' She turned around to leave.
'What?' He shot up pulling her back,
'What what?' She looked at him innocently.
'You-' He bit his lips, 'Sorry' He looked down, her mouth opened wide.
'Umm for what?' She took her hand out of his hold.
'Listen, don't get-' He looked at her confused face, 'for today and the other day' He turned around and left before she could say anything.
'What was the point?' She rolled her eyes stomping her feet behind him. Her eyes followed Zain's back as he went inside and sat down next to Hussain and Hassan. She leaned against the door before slowly walking towards Asad. She stood next to him before he pulled her to sit on his lap. Dilshad looked towards Ayaat,
'Oh great, you've got a cup. I was about to bring you one before I got busy catching up with Zoya' She smiled.
'No it's okaay' Ayaat replied, her eyes fixed on Zain's face. He avoided her gaze before finally looking at her. Ayaat's hand went up to her throat and she pretended to die. He rolled his eyes before looking away, embarrassed being caught. Ayaat smirked, Akdu really wants to apologise? She rest her arm on Asad's shoulder,
'Daadi, have you seen the room Abbu decorated for me?' She giggled.
'Sorry beta. It's my fault, he said to decorate for a little baby girl. What else was I meant to do?' Dilshad shrugged her shoulders innocently. Everyone burst out laughing.
'Umhh' Asad brushed his hair back, 'She is my baby though' He pulled her cheeks,
'Ouch, stop doing that' She grunted rubbing her cheeks, 'Ammi, this is your fault' she blew her cheeks, pouting. 'Think we should go na?' She looked at Zoya, yawning.
'No go where?' Dilshad cried, 'You're not going anywhere' She wrapped her arms around Zoya who looked at Ayaat. 'I've only just got you back, don't leave me'
'Ammi, they're not going anywhere' Asad comforted her, 'They'll move in soon' He pressed his eyes at her. Zain stared at them before looking at Ayaat's sad eyes. He understood how hard it must've been for her to accept everything.
'I'll drop you off' Asad picked Zoya up and took her to his bedroom. Ayaat waited near the front entrance with Innayah and Hassan.
'So beautiful, where do you live?' He leaned against the wall next to her. Ayaat shook her head,
'Not far' She replied quietly staring at Zain.
'It must be far if I haven't seen you around before. I would never forget a beautiful face like yours' He grinned widely,
'You mean a face like mammi's?' Innayah popped her head in between the two.
'Er why did you have to kill it?!' He chased after her.
Ayaat laughed at the two shaking her head, Zain coughed as he stepped towards her. He handed her a file,
'Meeting at 9 tomorrow' He said looking down. Ayaat looked at the file and then at him.
'You really expect me to come in tomorrow?' She asked him,
'I'm hoping' he looked at her,'I know you know about this meeting Ayaat' he stepped backwards and bumped into Dilshad. 'Sorry daadi, I didn't see you'
'It's okaay' Dilshad laughed rubbing his arm. She put his hand out towards Ayaat who came running. 'Asad told me about the fashion show, I'm so proud of you beta. He is so happy for you' Dilshad smiled looking at Zain, his gaze was elsewhere. 'I don't want to let you go today, but Asad has promised that you'll come soon, right?' Ayaat nodded in her hold as she stared at Zain. 'Zain you pick her up tomorrow morning' She ordered.
'But-'
'I don't-'
'Ah stop' she pointed at both of them, 'you're going towards the same office' She turned around, 'now follow me' She walked towards the kitchen with the two following behind her, sulking. She brought out a covered bowl and opened it in front of them. Both of their eyes lightened up,
'Laddoo' they squealed before glaring at one another.
'Nothing has changed' Zoya whispered into his chest. Asad wrapped his arms around her waist as she placed her feet on top of his. 'I wasn't able to look at it before, you haven't touched anything' her eyes went over the familiar walls.
'I couldn't bear anything that indicated your absence' He placed his cheek against hers. 'I can't bear to separate from you. I am sane again because you're with me' he looked into her eyes. His thumb brushed her bottom lip making her blush, Asad smiled at the familiarity of the colour of her cheeks; she was a newlywed bride at his one touch. He couldn't help but fall for her all over again. He pressed his lips against hers, he brushed his tongue over her lips over and over again, memorising and savouring her taste. Zoya returned the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck. She sat on the bed as Asad fell on his knees. She leaned back against the bed whilst he lay his head on her stomach. They both closed their eyes as tears escaped their eyes.
Asad's fingers trailed her side; Zoya brushed his hair back as they both remained in that position.
'Hey shhh' Asad comforted her as her body shook slightly.
'18 years Asad'
'I know' He whispered back. Zoya slowly got up; Asad brushed his head downwards onto her lap. 'I can't lose you again'
'Hey... You won't' She brushed his cheeks not being able to see his face. He didn't want to lift his head up from her lap. 'You didn't tell me...' He looked up at her; he took her hand and held it against his cheek,
'She came to me, I didn't believe her. Ammi didn't either but she couldn't leave her wandering the streets in her state. I found out on the day she went into labour. I threw the reports in her face. She didn't come home until a few weeks later, she brought the baby with her. She tried faking the reports again. Ammi felt sorry for her. But' he cried, 'I'm not as forgiving as you Zoya. I threw her out. I know but how could I let her live in my house with her lies. Ayaan found her baby stranded in one of the hospitals. Him and Ammi took him in. Idk Zoya, I have this fear that this child will turn into her. Every time I look at him, all I see is her face laughing at me' he dropped his head onto her lap. 'Your promise stopped me from coming to you, looking for you. All I did was wait, hoping and praying that one day Almighty will forgive me and unite me with you. My faith won, our love' His lips quivered as he took her hand and kissed the back of it.
'... Is still strong' She completed. 'I was wrong. It was all my fault, I was blinded and couldn't trust you. I guess my love isn't as pure as...'
'Heyy... It was not your fault. Circumstances were wrong. I'm not so innocent Zoya. Your heart, your eyes seeked answers, answers only my eyes could've have given. I could not give you anything that day. I put my head down in defeat not knowing what secrets my subconscious mind held. I might as well have been guilty. But I am not and this is proof that your love for me was strong and pure' He leaned upwards and kissed her forehead.
He cupped her face, 'no more tears. Everything is fine' He assured her, 'Zoya...' He said softly, She nodded slightly.
'Who's Ahsaan?' Zoya held in her tears, she sighed heavily.
'He-' She looked to her right and smiled to see Ayaan half peeking inside.
'Sorry sorry sorry. Can I speak to Mona BHABIE for a bit?' He grinned. Asad rolled his eyes,
'Yes this definitely did not change in the last 18 years' He got up making Zoya laugh.
'What?' Ayaan asked innocently,
'Don't act now' Asad chided, 'Always ruining our moment' He walked towards the door, 'I'll wait for you outside' he pressed his eyes at her and walked out of the room.
'What's up Ayaan?' Zoya's gaze moved from the door to Ayaan's sudden serious face.
'You might call me selfish bhabie, but I wanted to talk about Zain' He sat down next to her before facing her curious face.
-----
'Ayaat listen' Zoya grabbed Ayaat's hand before she could leave her room.
'What's wrong?' Ayaat sat back down next to her.
'Do me a favour, please don't talk about Ahsaan in front of your Abbu' She pleaded. Ayaat's face turned pale,
'Why?' She asked sadly, 'Haven't you told him already...'
'Ayaat you have to understand that this isn't the right time. Whatever happened...'
'Was that woman's fault' Ayaat got up angrily, 'she killed him. What was her name T, Tanveer' She fisted her hands beside her.
'Ayaat beta, this isn't the time for that. Your abbu will get-'
'You regret telling me don't you?' She looked at her mother's expressions before stepping backwards and out of the room.
'Ayaat?' Zoya called out behind her. She sighed against her pillow; she didn't want to upset her. She had made a promise not to allow any more relations to break and fall. This was the only way to make sure everyone was happy. She had told Ayaat about her twin brother when she was 9 years old. She had grown up knowing about a part of her that had been taken away from her yet she kept strong with the hope that he was walking side by side with her. Whenever she was down, she seeked comfort from Ahsaan, an imaginary soul brother who was always with her. Only 3 years ago she had found out what really happened to him. Zoya had been having nightmares and had accidently let her name slip numerous times. Ayaat wasn't unaware but she waited for her mother to reveal the truth.
'And when I find her, I will kill her. I honestly will tear her apart limb by limb' An aggressive Ayaat cursed in the background. She was so protective of her brother, a brother that never came into the world. If Ayaat looks like Zoya, her temper and her behaviour was exactly like Asad's.
-----
'Zoya!!' Mrs Haleem entered the half open door. Zoya looked up from the sofa and smiled.
'Helena, how are you?' She hugged her before asking her to sit down.
'Who's car is that outside? It's beeping like a storm is about to hit' She laughed.
'I don't know'
'There's a young male dressed in a 3 piece suit. Black hair and Ray-Bans' Helena went on.
'Ohh, oh yeah. Ayaat beta, hurry up. Zain is waiting for you.' Zoya called out to her stubborn daughter.
'I didn't tell him to wait' Ayaat remarked coming out of her room dressed in a simple wait churidar. Zoya looked at her sadly, as beautiful as she looked, she knew why she had worn that suit.
'I'm fine' She kissed her forehead, 'Byeee ladies' She waved at them both and ran out.
'What's going on?' Helena asked suddenly, she got up and put the kettle on. She walked back to the sofa, 'was I right to call Ayaat that day?'
'Yes and no' She breathed out before smiling.
'No no, honestly I really don't know how to thank you. You've done so much for me' Zoya placed brown box on the floor.
'Hey, you've called me a friend and it's my duty to help you' Helena smiled at her.
Zoya placed her hands on her hips and looked at her new home,
'Yes a friend today, yesterday we were strangers. And then this house. I'm indebted to you. I can't even pay I I' Zoya struggled for words.
'Hey shushh. We bought this months ago, and it would've remained empty for years to come. The house next door is big enough for us. If it could come to use, then I would think our decision to buy it was worth it. Pay me? You've said that 10 times now. Live as long as you want, you can pay me with tea and biscuits every day. And if your heart still doesn't find rest, I'll take teenie bit of rent WHEN you work just for the bills. Sit down and relax now' Helena pointed towards the sofa. Zoya walked towards it slowly before feeling dizzy and fainting.
'Not to worry Mrs Khan, you're fine. I've got some great news. You're pregnant. Four months to be precise' The doctor told a dazed Zoya.
'Huh? Four months... But I had no idea.' She replied.
'I know it's unusual but it's not uncommon. So many patients have delayed symptoms. You're absolutely fine, just be extra careful now. I want you to come in next week for a full scan' She told her as she started writing down her prescription. 'Take these twice a day after eating. Once again, Congratulations' The doctor smiled.
'Thank you' Zoya smiled widely. 'Helena, I'm pregnant. Omg Asad would be so happy. We're going to have our own baby. I have to go tell him' Zoya got up and ran towards the door.
'I'm pregnant with Asad's baby'
Zoya halted near the door as Tanveer's voice echoed back in her ears. She held her ears as tears overflowed from her eyes. Helena embraced her tight. Zoya fell on the floor as she sobbed endlessly.
-
'Helena where's my other baby?' Zoya questioned as the nurse took her daughter back to run some tests.
'Aapi, Jeeju. Where's my baby? I had twins. Where's my SONNN' Her voice rose, panic visible in her tone. Tears escaped her eyes yet she remained firm,
'Where's my BABYYY?!!!!!' She yelled, her voice echoed against the four walls. The three people in front of her remained silent. She threw the wires off her and stood up. She went next to them, 'where's my Ahsaan? Please tell me Aapi' Zoya begged pulling her collar. 'Jeeju, please I beg you. I'll never harass you again. Just please give me my baby. I only seen one teenie glance, my eyes are yearning to see him, touch him, hold him. Just one glance I caught Jeeju' She held her finger in front of him, her body started shaking. 'Please give me my baby back!' Her eyes darted to a pair of eyes sneaking through the blinds. Zoya ran outside her ward to find it empty. It was after three days when she finally found out what Tanveer had done to her baby.
Zoya held Helena's hand and pressed it, she looked at her with gratitude.
'You did the right thing; Ayaat needs Asad in her life. I need him, we both need him. I've lost one child; I don't want to lose my family. Aapi and Jeeju don't know yet but they'll be over the moon. They have asked me to join them in New York every chance they got. But I know they're happy, they're happy that I was able to become the independent woman they always wanted me to be. They just never thought I'd be alone'
'How did Asad take it?' She asked,
'He feels more alive than ever before' She smiled widely staring towards the main door, Dilshad stood there with a huge smile plastered on her face.
Zain's fingers tapped against the steering wheel uncontrollably playing beats he himself was unaware of. He looked up to find her stepping out of the house in a white attire. The breeze blew her beautiful black hair as she placed her hand over her eyes to protect herself from the sneaky rays of sunshine. He was angry at her but he couldn't help admire her. These feelings, weird unknown feelings towards this girl was becoming unbearable. One moment he wants to shout at her, physically abuse her for being so irritating yet another part of him wants to caress those rosy cheeks, play with those curly black strands. He had promised himself he'd help her as much as he could, he didn't know why, was it for his chachu or was it because he wanted to? Ayaat sat idly beside him as he stared ahead of him. She watched him shake himself before starting the car.
'You took your time' He taunted her,
'I didn't ask you to pick me up' She retorted,
'No, Daadi did.' He reminded her and himself. 'We have to go see the venue today, but first we have to pick up some files from Dilshad Constructions'
'We've only got half an hour till the meeting' Ayaat looked at her watch.
'You should've thought about that when you ignored all my beeping' He snorted.
'Ohh the meeting is here' She fake cheered as they both stepped out of the car.
'Don't tell me you're going to walk in like that' He pointed to her rolling her eyes.
'You don't look too great either' She looked him up and down before walking towards the building. She heard faint curses being thrown at her making her smile.
'Abbu' Zoya's eyes lit up seeing Asad near the reception.
'Ayaat' He hugged her back. 'You're here for the meeting, right?'
'Yeah' She nodded her head as she watched Zain walk past them. Asad was about to say something when her phone rang, 'Hello, hi? What? Post-phoned till next week? You're telling me now?' Ayaat grumbled, she put her phone back in her pocket.
'Post-phoned' Asad laughed completing his sentence making Ayaat smack her head.
'Heyyy?' Ayaat picked up her phone once again. She watched Asad call her to one of the rooms. She followed behind him. 'You're here? Yeah yeah, come now.' She grinned at Zain before walking cheerfully into the room.
'Do you want anything to eat or drink?' Asad asked her.
'Nope, an old friend is coming to meet me. I thought I'll just quickly do that before we go to see the venue'
'Oh right. That's good. Coming here?' He asked.
'Yeah'
'Oh okaay don't let me stop you then' He put his hands up before sitting down.
'I'll see you later' She chirped,
'Yeah. And why don't you take your friend to see the venue with you' He suggested,
'That's a good idea. Thanks Abbu. I think he'll like that' She smiled before walking out of the room.
'HE?' Asad widened his eyes. He jumped out of his seat and stood near the blinds. He watched secretly as a blonde young male entered the building. Ayaat greeted him whilst he side hugged her. Asad gripped the blinds; remove that hand. His eyes narrowed as he watched like a protective helpless father.
'Ayaat' Zain walked inside the room to find Asad clawing his blinds. He quickly stood upright and straightened himself out.
'The meeting was cancelled I heard' Asad coughed, 'Ayaat is just meeting her friend' he opened the blinds so that they could both see clearly. Zain watched carefully as she laughed openly with the blondie.
'Erm we have to go see the venue. We don't have long till the show. I'll just go talk to her now.' Zain spoke with his eyes fixed on Ayaat.
'Yeah yeah you should go. Stay with her. Yeah you should do that. Few days left now. 'He told him. His face was scrunched up.
'Haan, I'll go' Zain rushed out of the room and walked towards the duo. Asad closed the blinds before peeking quietly; she wasn't marrying him. NO. NEVER.
'Ayaat?' Zain called out making her face palm herself. She turned around slowly whilst Connor held his lips to contain his laughter.
'Yes Boss' She looked at him, fluttering her eyelashes.
'Let's go. We've got a venue to sort out' he ordered.
'But meeting was cancelled. We're meant to go around 11' she said sadly.
'Why waste time?' He spoke seriously. Ayaat sulked,
'No you go. I'm back now. I'll see you real soon. I'll tell you about England drama soon' Connor smiled.
'No but no. Erm why don't you come with us?' Ayaat looked at Zain's horrified face. He narrowed his eyebrows at her. 'Abbu said so' she said flatly. Zain mentally whacked his head against a wall numerous times,
'Let's go...' He gave in, he exited the building with them both following.
'This is Connor' Ayaat introduced once they reached the car.
'Zain' He replied dully opening his car,
'Wha- huh Akdu!' She grunted through the window at his rudeness. She was about to get into the back with Connor when Zain forced his door open,
'Front. Now.'
'But I-'
'I'm not your personal chauffeur Ayaat!' He spoke coldly.
'Connor, you sit inside. I'll just... Yeah' she walked around and sat at the front. Connor kept quiet not knowing what to do or say in such an awkward situation. He forced her a reassuring smile every time she glanced his way.
'You're pretty young to be an owner of such a big company' Connor asked Zain, Ayaat looked the other way. Zain glanced at Ayaat,
'Co-owner. Actually I don't own anything. I'm just taking care of daadi's shares' he replied softly. 'Ayaat's Ammi owns the other half of the shares' He explained. Ayaat looked at Zain in the hope of seeing rough expressions, but instead she was met with happy, soft ones.
'How do you two know each other?' Zain asked, curious.
'College. I loved Indian fashion and wanted to take up a fashion course here. I was forced to join a college here before I could apply for uni and I met this beauty' He sighed. Zain gripped his steering wheel tighter.
'Awww, I haven't met a handsome guy like you before either' Ayaat turned around and winked. Zain glared at her making her sit back properly.
'How was England?' She asked,
'Drama'
'Family?'
'No boyfriend'
Zain burst into a coughing fit halting the car to a stop. Ayaat quickly searched for her water bottle and made him sip from it. She wiped the side of his mouth and rubbed his back; Zain turned his face side wards and looked at her with his watery eyes.
'Are you okaay?'
'Yeah. I'm perfectly fine' Zain leaned back and breathed out heavily. He smiled to himself and shook his head like a maniac as Ayaat watched worried.
'Are you sure?' She asked again,
'Yeahhh. Let's gooo'
-----
'Wow it's coming out beautifully' Ayaat admired the venue.
'Very nice' Connor agreed. 'Love the theme' He twirled. Zain rolled his eyes as he watched them both laugh. He watched as Connor took Ayaat's hand and spun her. They both danced across the room. He cringed as Connor's hand lingered on her waist as her white churidar twirled around her. Connor held her in a typical Shah Rukh, Kajol pose. Zain stood there with his arms crossed. He coughed to bring the two out of their trance. Ayaat tore her gaze away and stood upright. She tried walking past him but he held her arm.
'You never take your work seriously do you?' Zain asked sternly. 'You just like men touching you, dancing with you. I think that's what you should do- Chachu should've never handed you the project'
'Excuse me? I never- I made sure the work was done. Since you've come here, what have you done apart from glare at me? What do you want me to do?'
'I want you to get out of your fairy tale and do some work' Zain held his head; he knew she was right but his heart was screaming at him.
'There is no work' She half yelled putting her arms out to indicate her point. 'I am serious about this Zain. You yourself told me to have a look at the stage. See if there was enough space. I don't know what problem you have with me. If you don't like being around me, then tell me. I'll leave' She looked at him with teary eyes. 'Just don't make excuses to yell at me anymore' Zain looked at Connor who stood quietly behind her.
'I er I'll take a leave' Connor rubbed Ayaat's arm,
'I'll see you tonight' Ayaat said without looking. Zain looked at her angrily.
'To think I crushed on you' Connor spat at Zain before leaving. Zain watched him leave, feeling disgusted.
'You'll see him tonight?' He asked as he stepped towards her.
'What has that got to do with you?' She looked at him with wide eyes.
Zain closed his eyes and stepped back.
'Nothing sorry. Let's go' he punched the air as he turned around and walked out of the venue.
'What the hell is wrong with this guy?' She asked baffled. She needed to stay away from him.
He watched as a crowd of people walked past the blind man that was struggling to cross the road. He wandered helplessly seeking a supporting hand to guide him around the merciless world. He walked over to him and placed his hand out, the man's hand brushed over his before finally holding on to it. A small smile formed on his lips, his face relieved as if death had turned away from him. He looked up with thankful expressions towards the stranger who had shown him mercy. He wrapped his arms over the old man and helped him walk across the road. He had seen an old age centre a few roads away.
'Uncle, do you have a family, a home that.I.could.drop you off to?' He spoke hesitantly not wanting to hurt the man's feelings. The blind man shook his head in a no before looking up into the sky.
'The world is my home. The people are my family' He sighed sadly. His body tensed as he thought about losing his mother. He entered the old age home and registered the man there. He gave his number and details before walking out of there feeling slightly empty. He looked over to his mother standing next to their car across the road. He walked over to her with the thought of not wanting to lose her.
'What happened to your bad boy image?' She smirked while texting away. He pulled his collar up,
'I'm still coool!' He smiled back at her. Shopping done?'
'Yes. Let's go. We have work to do.' She looked up at him with demanding eyes.
'Yes Maam' He saluted her playfully. He was willing to do anything for her. He looked back at the old age home; if she left him, he too would become alone in the world just like the man. He entered his car and started the engine as he waited for her. She looked around the familiar town that disowned her. She was back and she wanted revenge. She looked inside the car,
'Oh sweet revenge, how long I have waited for you. Let's go boy, we have people to ruin' She smirked to herself as she entered the car.
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Do leave your comments behind beautifuls and please ignore the mistakes. Much lovesss xoxo
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