Lovely post and very true! I agree Asad has shown so much development and only Zoya resides in his heart. His love is evolving and growing. We cannot expect Asad to turn into a lovey dovey jhoru ka gulam over night. It is his personality and zoya's also which makes ASYA so unique.
I can see why the apology did not go down with many fans, but Asad's emotions of making Zoya say sorry were also evident. In his mind and heart, he has brought Zoya to a level where he expects her and wants her to be right. Asad has always lived in a self-created "perfect" world and now he wants Zoya to be "perfect" as well. His Zoya.
Billi has played her cards well, and Asad's actions are justified. I would not say that his stupidity is justified but I blame the cv's for that. I am sure we will soon get a big twist: maybe Asad has been doubting Billi (would explain his words and his emotions today and in the past week) or a HUGE redemption track which will further develop Asad's personality, ideals, and ultimately his relationship with his Zoya.
Rashid's entry can go several ways. However, I hope it only helps ASYA. Billi needs to be exposed soon. Hopefully after the fake burn fiasco tomorrow, we start seeing Billi's downfall.
Rashid's entry can help or hurt his relationship with Asad. I have a feeling that maybe history will repeat. Years ago, Raziya framed Rashid for killing Zoya's mom which caused a huge rift of hatred between Asad and Rashid just a few months ago. What if history repeats, but this time Billi frames Rashid for how she hurts Zoya. (Maybe Rashid catches Billi hurting Zoya and when Asad comes to save her, he misunderstands Rashid). Then Ayaan can possibly come and prove Rashid innocent.
Whatever happens, I just hope the story starts moving next week and the subtle developments should be paced up.
Asad is in for a big surprise when Billi is revealed. If he is really clueless about Billi, then he is not trusting Zoya because of who she is (his preconceived notions and Zoya's past actions) however I feel that when Billi hurts Zoya (hopefully by trying to burn her), it won't be the same Zoya. Zoya will emotionally withdraw (due to past memories of the fire) and that's where Asad's redemption comes in. Asad and his love will try to bring Zoya back and Ayaan can help with all this. Another layer will be created if Asad blames Rashid for what happened to Zoya.
This goes back to the Sangeet Song. After the fire, Zoya will be "kaanch ki gudiya" (emotionless), Asad will be the "pind da shera" (his love will always come first for Zoya), and Ayaan will narrate and guide Asad through this. I can't wait to see Asad caring for Zoya.
Looks like I deviated from your post, sorry about that. But I agree, Asad loves Zoya and there is no denying that. Just because he does not react the way we want him to does not mean he does not deserve Zoya. We all keep forgetting that Billi has only brought ASYA close and she will continue to do so. All her acts will come back and bite her and a stronger than ever ASYA will emerge. Just hope cv's pick up the pace next week (now that ipl is over and sj and ksg got their days off as well).
-niki