AsYa FF Something Changed Thread#1 (Updated Chp 23 Pg 107) - Page 52

Chapter 20

Zoya was decked off in her black and red sari. The long sleeved blouse was short, but not too short to show off too much of her tummy, and was black with red embroidery on the ends of the sleeves. The sari itself was black and silky, with red borders and the pallu was red with shiny black sequins. It hung off her shoulder, as she had placed it when trying to tie her dori. Asad drank in the sight of her, she looked mesmerizing. He smiled when her cheeks reddened as his gaze on her became more intense. Maybe before, he would have turned away but now, their relationship was different. Even though he thought she probably didn't want him and he was confused, it didn't stop him from advancing towards her, not breaking eye contact.

Zoya inhaled sharply, fiddling with her hands as he approached. He looked tired but as soon as their eyes met he looked as though he just came alive. His stubbly cheeks and expressive eyes captivated her as the distance between them lessened.

When he stopped in front of her, he extended his hands out towards her, and leaned forward. The look in his eyes seemed as though he was asking for permission and Zoya gave the tiniest nod ever to assure him. His arms were basically around her, his head right next to hers, she could feel his breath on her back. She felt her breath hitch and gripped onto her sari as his fingers brushed across her back. Her back was to the mirror, which made it easier to tie the dori, as well as see Zoya's body respond to his touch. She closed her eyes and arched her back unconsciously as his fingers teased the sensitive skin on her upper back. His breath became more ragged, she could feel it. He took the two strings in his hands and tied it, tightening her arched back to its previous position. She felt her hands moving at their own accord to rest on his chest. Asad nearly closed his eyes at her touch. All thought of her not wanting him and his confusion was cleared off. All he thought about was their position. If she didn't want him, she would have pushed him away right?

He continued to tie it, making another knot and a tiny bow. He drew back his head, his stubble grazed against her cheek, and she tightened her grip on him. He was now facing her. He studied her face, her furrowed eyebrows, her parted lips, her heaving chest. She smelled like roses, sweet but delicate. And she drowned in his manly smell. Even after a day at work, he smelled like heaven to her. His faint remains of his cologne, his sweat and just his unique scent indulged her as she took some sharp breaths.

She opened her eyes to find him staring at her, just love written all over his face. Pure adoration. She smiled and leaned in, resting her forehead on his. He cupped her face, eyeing her lips, which were waiting expectantly. Her hands on his chest began moving up slowly. His lips was just a few cm from hers. Then suddenly Zoya remembered her plans and her set up outside. As much as she wanted to kiss him, she didn't want to set everything right in her room. Then her plans would go to waste!

Asad?' she gently said she rested her palm on his cheek.

Mmm?'

I think we should go outside, I have something to show you'

He stepped back, wondering if she really did, or if it was she was uncomfortable with him because she really did not want him.

He nodded and followed her out to the backyard.

He was most surprised to see the back decorated so romantically. The gazebo with candles and a blanket, a few cushions. A table near the gazebo with samosa and coffee. Black coffee. The white curtains she had draped in the gazebo looked even more beautiful as they danced with the wind. And the candles she had lit were enough to be fragrant but weren't overpowering. He was glad so he could still smell her.

But what were her intentions?

She came to his side. So, do you like it?'

Haan, bahut khubsurat hai . But what's all this for?'

Mmm... well actually, I have no idea where what I'm going to say is gonna go, but since I'm outright boldface, I'll just say it anyway.'

He smirked.

Actuallly, this morning, what I said, I think you may have taken it the wrong way. I didn't mean it, I was just joking'

Asad felt his shoulders relax. He knew it. She really did want him, after all. He decided to play with her a bit.

Uhh Zoya, what exactly are you talking about? You said many things this morning'

She literally facepalmed.

Asad! You know exactly what I mean'

No I don't. Can you be more specific?'

She rolled her eyes. Yes she was boldface and spoke as she wished, but that didn't mean she was going to tell him she loved him first or anything. But then he had already told her, hadn't he? Well sorta, anyway.

She walked up closer to him. Woh... when I said I didn't...'

You didn't what?' he probed, taking a step closer to her.

When I said I didn't want to uh... to marry you'

A broad smile plastered across his face, as he put his arms around her waist. She looked down, blushing.

Oh, so your mission was really to get married to me?' he teased.

She playfully slapped his chest.

You know, this morning you gave me the scare of my life when you said that' he said, getting all serious, reflecting on his tormented emotions from the morning.

Zoya looked at him, and saw how pained he looked thinking about it. Im sorry Asad. You know me, I say stupid things. I don't think before I speak. But you know now I didn't mean it right? I really want to spend the rest of my life with you'

He caressed her cheek lovingly and kissed her forehead. You will' he said, confidently.

As if on cue, right then and there a drop of water fell on his lips, and rolled onto her forehead. They pulled back slightly.

Did you feel that' they both asked. And suddenly more and more drops joined their romance. Asad began making his way to the gazebo, his hand holding Zoya's. But he felt something tugging him and turned to see Zoya pouting. Asad I want to stay in the rain'

Zoya, tum beemar ho jayenge'

Nahi, im staying here. I want to get drenched in the rain!' she squealed as she let go his hand and opened her arms wide, welcoming the rain drops.

She had that over fascinated smile on her face, that smile that Asad had fallen in love with. He walked to the gazebo and stood there just looking at his childish Zoya.

Way to ruin a romantic moment' he shouted, laughing.

Arrey this rain is so beautiful. Come out here and see for yourself!' she yelled back.

She continued playing, swishing the water in her hands around. Then she began dancing. She saw Asad chuckling and gave him a rude stare, causing him to shut up.

Her next antic while being overwhelmed by the rain was spinning. She spun and spun, which got Asad scared.

Zoya, be careful!' he called out. Yes, he would still always be very protective, maybe even too protective of his Zoya.

Zoya just stuck her tongue out to tease him and continued spinning.

What happened next was nothing like what the two expected. Zoya made one last powerful spin, as she decided to go spend some time with Asad, but maybe that spin was a bit too powerful. Her pallu came flying right off, revealing her bare tummy, and her sari blouse which was very tight, and showing cleavage. Asad saw this and couldn't help but get taken up in her. He slowly walked over to her, while she fumbled and tried to get her pallu back on but it was drenched which made it hard to do so. She would have to bend down, something which she was definitely not going to do in this situation.

Asad bent and then adjusted her pallu on her shoulder, with himself completely pressed up against her.

Thank you' she said shyly, a bit embarrassed that he had seen her like that.

It's okay, really, don't feel bad. It's just me' he said, intending to assure her and make her feel comfortable. And it worked. She relaxed and melted in his arms, taking him in for a hug.

Asad, I.. I love you'

In that moment, if happiness could have been measured, it would have been the happiest day of Asad's life. He pulled out of her embrace, and held her face gently in his hands. So gently, because he had his world in his hands. The sound of her voice, the emotion in her voice, the love in her words. Nothing could make him happier than the love of his life confessing her undying love for him. He was speechless. He may have known it, but hearing it from the angel herself, and her ways of showing him how much she wanted him and accepted him, he was too consumed to speak.

Zoya knew. She saw the wonder in his eyes as his hands were on her cheeks, holding her face up to his, so they could see each other eye to eye. She saw that spark, that intense gaze that pierced through her eyes. Even though it was raining, she could feel his heat. She could feel him and she could see into his soul. She almost laughed at the amazed look on his face. His gaze, his twinkling eyes and wonderstruck face altogether looked totally adorable yet amusing.

Why are you looking at me like that?' she asked, giggling as she pulled his cheeks.

He sighed and leaned down. Because I love you too.' he whispered these intimate words across her lips, Zoya could feel his warm breath fanning her.

Zoya knew he did, he said so himself. But hearing it from him, specifically directed to her, was just the icing on the cake. She knew that now, nothing else mattered. As long as she had him and his love, they would be infinite.

An eyelock was enough to know that the fun in the rain was over, and now with intertwined hands they walked towards the gazebo. Asad stroked her hand with his thumb while she wallowed in the simplicity of his touch.

____________________________________________________________________________

Chapter 21

The drops of water became more violent as they stamped on the ground. Zoya listened to them rhythmically, knowing exactly when another would sound, as they walked what seemed like a never-ending walk to the gazebo.

Upon reaching, she reached out for a towel she had placed in the gazebo. Picking it up she offered Asad it, who took it and let go of her hands. She was disappointed but this only lasted a second as he turned her so that her back was to him.

I knew it would be a lost case to try to stop you from getting wet in the rain. The least I can do to keep you from getting a cold is to dry your hair' he said softly, taking up her long tresses and gently drying them between the towel.

Zoya tilted her head back, allowing him more access. She was touched by his caring gesture.

And you?' she asked.

Nahh, I don't get sick!' he scoffed.

Oh really!'

Yes, really'

They both laughed as he continued to dry her hair. He noticed some water on her exposed back and moved her hair to one side, as he wiped her back. Then he turned her around, and while she wrung the water out of her pallu, he took the liberty of wiping her arms. Zoya even went to pick up her sari and held it by the bottom and squeezed some water out.

Next she grabbed the towel from him and lightly tousled his wet hair.

Even though you claim you don't get sick, I still think you should dry up a bit in case' He took off his coat, he was still in work clothes you see.

Zoya looked at him astonished at what he was doing and then mouthed ohhh' as she realized. He laughed as he loosened his tie and unbuttoned his top 2 buttons. She wiped the few drops on his face.

Now she was facing him, a bit drier than before and she stared at the handsome man before her. His drenched black pants, and white shirt which clung to him like a second skin. His six packs was visible, not to mention his muscular arms which looked as though they'd burst out from his long sleeves.

What are you staring at, Zoya?'

You'

Wow, just when I thought you couldn't get any more shameless!' he teased and she hit him with the towel. To that tried to grab it.

She looked irritated and well she was really all hot and bothered. So Asad stopped and just swiftly pulled her into him, she dropped the towel on the ground. She was now more pressed up against him more than she could ever imagine. She knew now was the time. Now more teasing, no more interruptions.

With full ownership, she raised her arms and planted them around his neck while he tightened his hands around her small waist. He started to move them gingerly.

Zoya couldn't help but intervene on the romantic moment.

Wait a minute!' she blurted out and she stretched her arm out to her ipad which was laying on the table in the gazebo and tapped the screen.

Tum hi ho began playing.

Asad smiled, proud at how effective she was in planning. She gave him a victorious smile and put her arms around his neck again.

Asad, no matter how much of a gentleman he was and how much respect he had for Zoya, he could not deny his raging emotions and his manly hormones.

Zoya was drenched, her sari clung to her and he felt her curves against him. Her chest was tight against his and he could tell she felt the same heat he did. He closed his eyes and leaned to touch their noses as they danced to such an intimate number.

Zoya's breath took off at an enormous pace, as their proximity got the better of her. He felt her heaving chest and opened his eyes, to find her pressing her eyes shut. She inhaled sharply and her lips parted slightly. Asad used on hand to tilt her chin upward, and she willingly moved her face higher up to meet his. With less than a brush of their lips between them, Asad crammed her even more into him while Zoya pulled him down to close the distance.

The touch of their lips, it screamed pure bliss. No interruptions, no awkward circumstances. No indefinite emotions and no walls in between. It was just the two of them, immersed in their love and the warmth of expressing it.

Asad pulled back and kissed her again, taking her bottom lip between his lips and Zoya sighed into his mouth, feeling the moment slip away from her.

When they broke the kiss , they gasped for air and both chuckled, for they knew they had finally had their first real kiss.

Wow, that's better than that night' she let out in a raspy breath.

That's because we know exactly what we want now' he said matter of factly and lowered his lips onto hers for another short peck.

After a few seconds it ended, with Zoya saying, I always wanted you'

When she said those words, Asad lost grip of his sanity. His love seemed to emulsify and he passionately held her neck while placing his mouth on hers, kissing her, probing her mouth open. Zoya gripped on his collar as she allowed him in, and he deepened the kiss.

Zoya loosened her grip on him, as she melted into him, their kiss seemed just like in fairytales.

Asad smiled against her lips as they parted for air, and then claimed then again gently. After a few seconds, they pulled back, and Zoya rested her head on his chest as his strong arms engulfed her, in a promising embrace.

It had been a while since they had been standing, and Asad motioned for them to sit.

Both ended up lying on the blanket. Zoya's whole playlist of romantic songs accompanied them. Zoya wondered if she should lean on him and Asad thought about putting an arm on her shoulder. They looked at each other and almost immediately began laughing. They knew each other too well. Without further ado, Asad lay on his back, propped up on a cushion and called Zoya to him. She wriggled around until she was close enough to affectionately rest her palm on his chest.

The rain had reduced to a drizzle, and the sky seemed a bit dusty yet it was clear enough to see the stars. The sky was a sight to behold. The moon was shining behind a purplish cloud which made everything look even prettier. The numerous stars were like little jewels twinkling down at then

Waw it's so beautiful' Zoya exclaimed.

You, right?' Asad flirted, giving her a wink.

No, idiot, look' she said as she pointed up to the sky.

Ohh, yeah it really is.'

Haan. Look at how many stars! and Waw Allah miyan! I've never seen such a beautiful moon'

I would agree, but then I've seen you' he said looking at her.

She smiled, even blushed.

Aww Zoya blushes!'

Shut up!' she said as she held his hand which was at his side and laced her fingers in his. This made him pull her closer to him and now her head rested on his chest. She could hear his heartbeat.

Remember that night? Tonight, with all these stars, I'm thinking of that night we saw the meteor shower.'

How can I forget? And remember when we went there after our fight?' he asked.

Of course! Destiny is so unpredictable. That night at the meteor shower, we indirectly made wished for us to fall in love. How crazy!'

And here we are now,... in love' he said, in a funny tone.

She giggled. Do you think if we hadn't wished for that, that this would have still happened?'

Of course. Fate has it that we are together. And I'm sure that the meteor shower was one way of bringing us together. But if that had failed then there would have been some way that I'd find myself to you.' he answered confidently.

How can you be so sure?' she asked curiously.

He turned to his side, to face her. He reached out and lovingly stroked her cheek.

In this life, I couldn't have possibly lived without falling in love with you. Without being with the one person who makes me feel alive, and feel the worth of living after such a life of difficulties. I couldn't possibly be away from the one person who makes me stronger. So even if one way didn't work, another way would have. Allah would have made sure. Because he knows no one is right for me beside you. And I don't want anyone else to be. Because if I can love, it's only because of you. And it's only for you.'

Zoya's eyes got cloudy, tears were brimming and she tried in vain for them not to fall. How could one person be so passionate about her? How could he love her so much?

She hugged him tightly as tears escaped her eyes.

Asad ran his fingers through her hair. Shhh, love don't cry'

Don't tell me what to do!' she pouted as she pulled back.

You know, after saying such beautiful words, how can an emotional one like me not cry. Hmph' she looked at him angrily, and then burst out in laughter.

Meri pagal Zoya!' he crooned at her.

How can you love me so much?' she asked like a little child, her eyes full of wonder.

Because you love me the same' he replied nuzzling her nose.

Mmm. True. You know, I'm not that good at using such poetic and elegant lines like you, but still. When I first met you, I didn't know, I mean I had no idea at all, that I would ever love someone like you so much. In fact I thought it was impossible. But then getting to know you I realized you were the way you were for a reason. And maybe I never actually said it but unconsciously it became my goal to revive that glow in you, to make you happy. And after learning so many things about you, I guess I couldn't help but fall in love with my Jahanpana Six Packs. After all you've been with me through all the difficulties I faced. And this mission SAAJ, like wow I was quite contented with it but I really hoped it could be real. And then when... they confronted us after that night, I realized that hiding something doesn't make it lessen. It actually makes it grow more and grow stronger. And I know I'm talking a whole lot but whatever, you'll listen anyway' Asad laughed and nodded for her to go on.

When I heard you say yes that day, I felt as though a boulder was lifted off my shoulder. The happiness I felt knew no bounds. I was wondering if you said it just to make me stay but I knew that there was something more to us than just that. And that morning when I woke up after fainting, I knew. Asad, I never knew what it was like to look at somebody and see everything I have ever wanted. When I saw you, sleeping next to me tired but yet you wouldn't retire to your room because you cared that much, it warmed my heart. You also respected me, and wouldn't lie on the same bed. When I opened my eyes and saw you there, laid my eyes on you, the first thing I saw for the morning, I just took one look, and I knew there was no going back. That's when I realized I loved you oh so much. And I wish every morning could be like that. Holding hands, greeting the sun rays as we lie together, seeing you first thing in the morning.'

Asad became emotional and Zoya saw a tear slip down his cheek.

She caresses his cheek and wiped it away saying, I may have come to India for a mission, the mission to find my father. But Allah had another mission planned for me, a mission to find love. And I guess I do get what you said. Somehow or the other He would have guided us to each other.'

Everything you have said, jaan, just made me fall in love with you again. And I promise you, every morning will be like that' he whispered.

She smiled. I like the sound of that. "Jaannn"' she giggled as she tried to mock him. He softly laughed and pulled her soft body to him for a hug.

I love you'

I love you too Jaan, I love you too'

Next : Chapter 22