AsYa/Kabhi SS Love In New York COMPLETED

Plot: Asad's sister Zeenat married Anwar against the wishes of the family and settled in New York. And they are having daughter named Usma. Zoyas step mom Razia is behind her to get her married to her brothers son Akram to usurp all the property. Zoya runs away from her house. Zeenat and her hubby Anwar, dies in a car accident suddenly leaving Usma alone. Badi bi is the matriach of Asads family sends him to bring the girl back to her anscetoral house. Asad on reaching New York sees Zoyas perfoming an Indian dance. He gets smitten by her. Usma doesnt want to go to India. Zoya and Usmas paths cross each other and they decide to help each other. Zoya disguises as Anwars sister to stop Asad from taking Usma to India and in turn Usma allows her to be her Phoppi to escape from Razia. But after meeting Asad Zoya too falls for him. Now what will happen?

Chapter Seven - Confessions, Homecoming and heartbreaks galore

Zoya woke up

Zoya woke up to find herself in a secluded area. She looked around to see where she was. She felt totally disoriented. She saw that she was in a cosy bed with white satins and a small window to look outside. She adjusted her face in that window to look outside and Boom what she saw some blue and white coloured smoky atmosphere. She looked around by rotating her head. She was inside a cabin kind of thing, very limited space but not less than a hotel room, then she heard some noises coming from outside. She got up from her bed holding her head and dragged her feet to see what was going outside. She slided the door to find giggling and laughter. She saw Usma laughing all the way sitting on Asads lap and playing something on his tab. She was puzzled. She was with Asad and where the hell she is now? She came behind them and kept her hand on Asads shoulders which made him jolt for a second as he wasn't expecting her. Asad turned back and said "Zoya aap utgayi, kaisi hai aap?, How are you feeling now"Usma now got down from his lap and was busy playing with games in his tab. Asad let her back to the room letting Usma know that they were inside. He closed the door after he entered. Zoya again "Asad hum kahan hai?' yeh konsi jagah hai, muje aisa kyun lag raha hai ki main bohot I m in a secluded area, kuch ajeeb hai, like my ears are filled with air and I cant hear anything properly. It opens up frequently. I m feeling that I m floating. Kyan horaha hai Asad?, hum kahan hai" She just showered a rapid fire of questions to Asad without giving time to him for answering . She shut her up by clamping his hand on her mouth. "zoya please listen to me first, aap aram kijiye, I will tell you everything, pehle aap shanti se baitiye tho sahi" and he made her sit on the bed. She was still looking at her for her answers. He slowly started apke pehle sawaal ka jawab hai, hum private jet man hai" Zoya jaws dropped "dusra sawal ka jawab hai we are flying in mid air and teesra, we are going to India" Zoyas hands automatically went to her mouth. "lekin India tho aap aur Usma jane wale the, phir main kaise" Asad now removed her hands from her mouth, she felt a little shy asking that question and she avoided Asads gaze. Asad held her chin by his hand and lifted her up face to look at him. Zoya could find nothing but his eyes full of love and Asad mischieviously said "ek sardarji ne kaha tha mujse ki main zoya ko bohot narmi se handle karoon" Zoya smiled being caught, she bit her lip and looked sidewards. Asad made her again to look at him and this time he was tracing his fingers along the contour of her lips. She was feeling butterflies in her stomach and her heart skipped a beat. She was shyly looking down Asad softly spoke "maine uss fountain main coin dala" Zoya eyes shot up "kyun" Asad "aap jo kho gayi thi" Zoya "tho aap vahan aye the, maine kitne der thak apka intezaar kiya, phir pata nahi kya hua, ek andhera sa chaa gaya ankhon ke samne, phir muje kuch yaad nahi" Asad "aap shayad iss gale ki chot ki vajah se behosh huyi thi" he pointed at her neck bandage. Zoya looked at it and remembered her wish at the fountain. Zoya fumbled "vo main...main..vahan .. aap muje chodkar chale gaye uss cottage main, lekin jab sham tak apka koi pata nahi chala tho, main socha ki.." Asad cut her off coming closer, zoya was now breathing heavily, "kya socha apne?" Zoya main socha ki apki jaan khatre ho sakthi hai, kyunki apne muje ghar se bhagaya tha, tho main apko talash karne ke liye..." Again cut off Asad he now inches close to her face "kyun zoya , mere liye itni bechaini kyun... , mere liye itni fikr kyun, Kyun aap muje takleef main nahi dekh pati hai, kyun aap muje vo new York tour par lekar gayi thi, kyun mere saath waqt bitaya, kyun zoya, boliye main sunna chahta hoon" Zoyas heartbeat became erratic and her lips were shivering now. She couldn't make to say even one word, looking at her condition. Asad smiled "apko pehli baar dekhte hi mujse aapse pyar hogaya tha, par yakeen nahin tha ki ek din aap bhi mujse... Apko dekhne ke liye mere ankhen taras gayi thi. Sach zoya" He stopped and then looked at her, he saw that she was giving a small smile hearing him and then continued "Zoya bas ek baar kehdo, main vo sunne ke liye taras gaya hoon," he begged her. She saw sincerity in his eyes , she just closed her eyes and then said it "I LOVE YOU TOO ASAD." She opened her eyes to see him looking at her lovingly. He reciprocated "I LOVE YOU, I do Zoya, main apse beintehaa mohabaat karta hoon" They were inches apart from each other. Zoya gave in and she hugged him tightly not even leaving air to pass between them. Asad nuzzled her hair and buried his face there taking her warmth. Zoya too was feeling vibrations all along her body. Both had their eyes closed. They were relishing that hug that they head Usmas knock and her request "Mamu, yeh dekhiye, yeh game over hogaya, muje naya game chahiye" They broke their hug Asad "tho Usma ki phoppi ko Usma ke mamu qubool hai" Zoya shyly replied "jee qubool hai," and they both went to open the door.

In Bhopal, at the Khan mansion

Badi Bi was organizing the welcoming function of her great grand daughter homecoming. Tanveer with her mother were already there to flatter her and faking their concern. Tanveer mother Hasina, pulled her to a corner and advised her "maine kitni baar tumse kaha tha ki Asad ko apne mutti main rakhna , lekin tume kabhi meri baat nahi maani, iss baar jab vo ayega, tho usse kaskar apne pallu se band ke rakhna, samji" Tanveer said "ammi, aap kya soch rahi hai, maine koshih nahi ki, lekin vo kabhi muje bhav deta hi nahi hai, main jitna uski kareeb jane ki koshish karti hoon, utna hi vo muje door bhaag ta hai, muje doubt hai ki vo kahin gay tho nahi hai, maine usse apne husn ki jaal main utar ne keliye short dresses pehne, lekin muje attention dena tho door vo meri taraf dekhta bhi nahi hai, ab main kya karun," Hasina advised "are pagli mard aise hote hai, jaal main phasne ke liye thoda time lagtha hai, lekin ek baar phas gaye tho asani ne nikal nahi sakte, mard aurat ki husn aur ishq main iss kard band jate hai ki, vo humare haathon main katputli banker rah jate hai, ab tumhare abbu ko hi dekhlo, majal hai jo mere khilaf jaye, thoda sabr se kaam lo, Tannu" Tanveer "teek hai, phir se koshish karti hoon." Hasina "vo buddi, ke haath main sara khan khandaan ki bagdor hai aur Asad uksa chabi samj aur abto vo videshi bachi bhi arahi hai, hume pakad aur mazaboot karna padega. Ab jao aur uss buddi ki maddat karo, jhoota hi sahi, lekin unhe yeh lagna chahiye ki Asad ke liye tumhare sivah aur koi achi ladki nahi milegi" Tanveer "muje bhi uss Asad main koi interest nahi hai, lekin nikah kabhi na kabhi tho karna padega, tho phir kyun na isse hi karoon, paisa ka paisa bhi, aur society main naam bhi, aish aura ram se zindagi kat sakti hoon, aur kya chahiye, nikah ke baad vo apne raste main apne raste"

In the private jet

Asad fed Usma and lulled her to sleep. Zoya was taking rest in the room. But actually she was deeply in some thoughts. Asad opened the door to find her head rested against the headboard and with her legs straight, leaning against the pillow, deeply thinking something. He cleared his throat and came and sat beside "aap kuch khayengi," Zoya nodded in negative. Asad held her hands "I know Zoya ki yeh sab aise achanak, lekin agar main yeh kadam nahi utatha tho shayad apko phise kho deta" Zoya looked at him with teary eyes "New York Chodne se phele ek baar abbu se milna chahti thi, par nahi hua, Asad meri abbu, vo akele hai, un shaitano ke beech main, mere ghar se bhagne ka sara gussa meri sauteli maa ab unpar utaregi, teek se khana bhi nahi degi, apko pata hai vo baat tak nahi karsakte, vo paralysed hai, bistar par hai, main.. kya karun unka meri alava iss duniya main aur koi nahi hai, Asad muje unki bohot yaad arahai hai" She cried and launched herself into Asads arms. He took her into his embrace and patted her back and caressed her hair pacifying her. "Dekho zoya muje apke abbu ke bare main pata nahi tha, lekin main vada karta hoon, main unhe kuch nahi hone doonga, bas muje kuch dino ki mouhlat dedo, I promise vo apke saamne honge" Zoya felt his promise so sincere she didn't say anything back but nodded her head giving her approval. Asad asked "apke abbu ki yeh halat kaise huyi, I mean koi accident?" Zoya started her story "muje meri ammi ke bare main kuch pata nahi, abbu kehte ki meri ammi muje janam dene ke baad iss duniya se ruksat hogayi, aaj tak maine unka ek bhi tasveer nahi dekha, mere liye mere abbu hi sab kuch the, meri ammi bhi, phir bad main unki mulalaqat meri souteli ammi se hui, vo pehle bohot achi thi, I mean achi baneka natak kiya tha, thaki vo mere abbu ke good books aye, abbu ne bhi meri liye ammi lane ke vaste, unse nikah kar liya, lekin nikah ke baad dheere dheeer unke bartav main badlav aya, ek din main school se vapis ayi tho maine unhe abbu se jaidad ke bare main poochte hue suna, Abbu ne kahan ki sari jaidad unhone meri naam ki hai, main saari jaidad ki asli waris hoon.iss baat par un dono ki bohot ladayi hui, aur phir jaise hi din beet tha gaya, unhone muje satana shuru kiya, she pulled her sleeve up and showed the burn scar, yeh unki di huyi nishani hai, jab maine unke bhai ke beta Akram ko pattar se mara tha, Akram bachpan se hi bigda hua tha, usse jab bhi mouka milta tha, muje tank karta tha, main hamesha chup rahthi thi, lekin uss din kuch zyadaa hogaya, usne zabardasti muje sharab pilane ki kosish ki jab vo mere saal girah par aya tha, maine uss din usse pehli baar pattar se maara, aur uska sar phod diya, meri souteli ammi ne muje yeh nishan inam main diya, unhone aag se ladki nikal kar mere hathon par rakh diya, uss din main bohot roi Asad, yeh dekh kar mere abbu sahe nahi paye aur gir pade aur phir unki yeh halat hogayi" Asads eyes were welled up with tears now and flowing out like a river. He was experiencing the pain which Zoya wen through. Zoya continued "uss din ke baad, mere abbu ke liye jee rahi hoon, kabhi apne liye nahi jiya, unhone mere schooling rukvadi, lekin Allah mere saath the, mere school ke principal ghar aye aur phir main dubara school jane lagi, main padayi main awaal thi, mere principal kuch shak hogaya issliye unhone mujse akele main baat ki, maine sab kuch unhe sach batadiya, unki maddat ki vajah se maine college bhi poora kiya, unhone Moulavi saaab ko iss baat main shamil kiya, aur phir jail jane ki dar se, unhone bhi muje tank karna band kardiya, saalon beet gaye, aur phir achanak ek din, vo mere paas Akram ka rishta lekar ayi, maine saaf inkar kardiya, lekin unke mansoobe kuch aur hi the, phir majboor hokar muje apna ghar chodna pada, uske baad ki kahani tho apko pata hi hogi" Asad sat there with teary eyes hearing her sad story. He softly said "muje pata nahi tha zoya ki aapk itni takleef seh chuki hai, lekin main vada karta hoon, aage zindagi main apko koi takleef nahi hogi, main apko hamesha khush rakhunga, now please smile that dimpled one please." Zoya hearing that flashed her dimples. Asad caressed her dimples slowly and then leaned against her, she was moving backwards, he gently closed the distance and placed a sweet and soft kiss on her dimples. Zoya relished the touch of his lips on her cheeks. She had entwined her fingers with Asads and her grip becme strong on his hand, when he kissed her. He felt her grip tight and smiled that thinking the effect he has on her. He pulled apart and got up to go, he felt a tug at his hand, he turned to see that Zoya was asking him to stop.

In Bhopal, Khan mansion

BadiBi was ordering around everybody to arrange the things in order, She didn't want to leave any stone unturned when Usma comes to her ansectoral house for the first time. Added she was going to announce something to the whole society as it was a grand occasion too. "pata nahi Usma ati hi hogi, aur kya kya kaam baaki hai, are Shajhaan Usma ka kamra tayyar haina, kuch choot tho nahi gaya" He replied "jee bilkul tayyar hai Badi bi, baby ko acha lagega." Badi bi "hmm aur mitayiwala, uska kya" "jee uka bhi intezaam hochuka hai," "sara Bhopal ko aaj maine niyota diya hai, iss jashn main, issliye kuch bhi chootna nahi chahiye samje, muje pal pal ki khabar dena" "jee bdi bi" Badi bi "suno tanveer yahan aao, muje tumse kuch baat karni hai" Tanveer smiled from ear to ear fakely and went to her." Jee boliye badi bee, kya maddat karun apki" Badi bi "subah se mere pair main dard horaha hai, thoda daba dona, subah se kitne sare kaam, thoda aram ke liye bhi waqt nahi mila" Tanveer's fuse blew away "vo badi bi ammi bula rahi hai, main abhi ati hoon, aap yahan baitiye" She made Badi bi sit on the settee and was going to go" are kahan jaa rahi ho Tannu, main bhi tho dekhoon mere honewali bahu ke haath ka jadoo, tumhari ammi se bad main mil lena, yeh lo baam , ab malish kardo, " she shoved that baam into Tanveer hands and Tanveer was looking like a fool. She unwillingly sat there and took badi bi legs all of sudden which made her yell "are tannu malish kar rahi ho yah phir mere pair ukhad rahi ho" Tanveer mumbled "irado tho thodne ka hai, kya karun ek baar asad se mere nikah hojaye, phir dekhna buddi main tumhara kya haal karti hoon" She immediately smiled when Badi bi looked at her. Tannu was kept massaging her legs for the time being.

In the private jet

Asad felt a tug at his hand "Asad aap muje India lekar jaa rahe hain , lekin kis rishte se, kya kahenge aap apne ghar walo se, ki main koun hoon, apke saath mera kya rishta hai?" Asad saw her questioning eyes. She was really asking the fact what is he going to say about her to Badi bi, he cant all the way say that he loves her and wants to marry her, but he still needed to say something to convince his grandmother." Asad said main janta hoon Zoya ki aap yeh kyun pooch rahi hai, lekin kya aap mujpar bharosa karti hai, I mean do you trust me completely and unconditionally?" Zoya nodded. Asad told he had applied for her Indian visa as she was engaged with him and now has to travel to India for the rest of the wedding functions as the wedding is going to be in India. He arranged for this private jet as last night some goons had attacked again to taker her away and they had to leave New York soon. Zoya was baffled hearing all theses revelations. Zoya asked "lekin embassy wale man gaye?" Asad "main Asad Ahmed Khan hoon, I have influences here too, but I didn't use it really I brought the hotel owner to support me plus remember the old lady in that cottage, I gave her reference too. Thoda mushkil tha, magar hogaya, issliye uss din aane main thodi der hogayi, ab aage kya yeh sochna hai," at that time the jet passed through thick clouds and experienced turbulence and Asad lost balance and fell on Zoya and both were lost in each others. They came so close together and their lips almost brushed both of them felt their body heating up. But Asad did maintain his gentleman attitude and kissed Zoya on her forehead quickly moving his head away and zoya closed her eyes in contentment.

The Homecoming

After a tedious 24 hour journey the jet landed at Bhopal airport. The trio got down and was welcomed in a very grand manner. They walked and reached upto the arrival. Usma felt like she was loved. Usma was welcomed with flowers, sweets and gifts, after she is great grand daughter of Ayesha Ahmed Khan. Zoya was surprised seeing such grand arrangements. Soon her eyes fell on a old lady standing with a walking stick in her hand and wearing glasess with a hanging chain. She had an attitude about herself and Zoya noticed it and whispered in Asads ears "kya yehi Hilter nani hai?" Asad "Zoya chup, inhe pyar se Badi bi kehte hai" Zoya mumbled "sorry" Asad was hugged by Badi Bi and Usma maintained a distance from her as it was really difficult for her to lauch into her arms as soon as she met her, because as a kid she needed more convincing. Badi bi looked at Usma and said "shakal aur surat se, Bilkul choti zeenat hai yeh" She extended her hand to keep on her but Usma withdrew and tugged onto Zoya. Asad saw that Usma really needed to be convinced. He took her in his arms to assure her. Badi bi asked "yah koun hai Asad, tumhari saath ayi hai kya, kya Usma ki nanny hai, America main tho aise hota hoga, bacho ko tho nanny dekhbal karti hai" Usma retorted "yeh meri phoppi hai, and she launched into zoyas arms from Asad. Asad saw that he had to manage the situation somehow. So he quickly said "ghar chalke baat karte hai" He was about to go his hand was snaked by someone. He knew it was not Zoya but taken aback seeing Tanveer. She smiled "Hello Asad, kya jane se pehle ek baar bhi, mujse milkar nahi gayi, apko pata hai, main apka intezaar main sookh kar kanta ban gayi hoon," she tried to battle her eyelashes at him. He saw Zoyas expressions on seeing this, he quickly disentagled his hand from her and said "yeh kya behudgi hai Tanveer, aisa sabke samne tamasha mat banao, tum achi tarah se jaanti ho ki muje yeh sab pasand nahi hai" He walked ahead a little took Usma from Zoyas hands and signaled her to walk along with her. Zoya was stil confused over Tanveer reaction and Asad told her to ignore her.

The Celebrations

Badi Bi had arranged for a jashn inviting each and every honorable household of Bhopal. Badi bi was announcing that Usma is going to be half legal heir of all her property along with her grandson Asad. She also said she has now an important announcement to make later in the evening. Asad had come in a black suit with a red hanky in his pocket with a white shirt beneath and Usma had been given one of the most prettiest dresses, nevertheless she was happy and Zoya was dressed simply in white kurta and a yellow pyjama, but yet she was looking stunning in that simple attire. Tanveer was draped in a heavy lehenga and adorned with jewellery from top to bottom. Her lips were stained with the most irritating shade of lip stick and he eye shadows were too heavy that altogether she was looking like a chudayil. Seeing her Usma pointed at her and told Asad "muje tho vo chudayil lagti hai" Asad signaled her with his finger on his lips to shut up. She obeyed but giggled. Asad was standing with Zoya and he was mesmirised to see her simple and yet elegant, she had wore the dupatta around her neck to conceal her bruises. Her face was shining and her eyes were sparkling. Asad couldn't take his eyes off from her. Badi bi now announced that the time has come for the important announcement she has to make today. She proudly tagged Tanveer and pulled her to side and announced that today her grandson Asad will get engaged to her family friend's daughter Tanveer. Tanveer's dirty mind was very happy. Hearing this Zoya almost shocked, her eyes started to well up and she simply left the celebrations scene leaving a shocked Asad as well. Hasina was also smirking thinking that her plans are set in motion. Asad wanted to run behind Zoya now but was stopped by Badi bi, "kahan jaa raho Asad, tumhari sagaai ka elan hua hai, aur tum gayab hogaye tho sagaai kaise hogi" Asad was very angry at Badi Bi, firstly she didn't tell him about her plans and now all of a sudden his engagement knowing well that he doesn't like that Tanveer a bit. Asad said "par Badi bi aap ne muje poocha nahi, meri sagaai hai aur muje pata hi nahi" Badi bi "are Asad ab pata chal gaya na, tumhare abbu ne Tanveer ke abbu se tum dono ke nikah ka vadaa kiya tha, ab kya tumhare marhoom abbu ki baat bhi nahi rak sakte" Asad "par badi bi iss tarah achanak, main tayyat nahi hoon, aap please yeh sab abhi band kijiye" Badi bi "sorry Asad, lekin ab elan hochuka hai, aur ghar ki izzat ka sawal hai, tho tumhe yeh mangni karni padegi". Usma was comprehending everything what was happening, Firstly she didn't like Miss Tanveer at all since she had a tiff with her in the morning when she came. Flashback at the airport "Usma was enjoying in Asads arms and Tanveer wanted to talk to him privately. Usma pouted and Asad denied Tanveer. Tanveer blamed Usma for taking away Asads time from her "Ate hi, Asad ko mujse cheen liya, aur uska waqt bhi". Usma replied back "yeh mere mamujaan hain, aur aise inpar haq jatanewali aap koun hai?" Tanveer "mera inse nikah honewala hai, aur jaldhi main tumhari mumani banungi" Usma "par bani tho nahi naa, aur kabhi banogo bhi nahi," she said the last part mumbling and inaudibly. Flashback ends She thought to teach her a fine lesson.

Next chapter: Where is the engagement ring? Mayhem following

Chapter Six - Making a wish at Bethesda Fountain - I wish for nothing but Asad.

Next day morning at the cottage

Asad woke up to see Zoya still sleeping and heard knock at the door. He opened the door to find the old lady with coffee and sandwiches. He took the tray and thanked her. She asked how was his wife. He sheepishly replied that she is still sleeping and the old lady stretched to look over his shoulders. She shook head and lef them. Asad was seeing a sleeping Zoya and was admiring her innocence, beauty, divinity. He took her wrist and kissed them on the injured part. She stirred in sleep but slept again due to fatigue and loss of blood. It was like he was seeing his dream come true in front of his eyes. He suddenly got up and took his jacket wore it and left outside. He told the old lady something and she nodded. Zoya woke up after sometime, seeing herself in a totally alien environment, she started looking around for any clue, then suddenly she remembered how Asad was with her last night and glimpses of him saving her from the washroom, both of them getting down the balcony, then after that she knew she warned him of the dog, but after that she found herself here. What must have happened? W here is Asad ? Did he come to know about everything? My identity? A lot of questions were raising in her head. She clutched it hard with both her hands as is she had a headache. Right then she saw an old lady entering. Zoya asked "aap kon hai? Aur main yahan kaise? Mere saath koi tha?" Old lady smiled "your husband has gone out to do some urgent and important things and had conveyed that he will return by evening, till then he told you to take rest here, I am here, this is my house?" Zoya "husband uh?" Old lady, "I guess you are pretty disoriented now, take some more rest, you really need it, but before have this soup, its really good, I had prepared putting herbs, may be you will get rid of your fatigue and don't worry he will come soon" Old lady kept he soup and turned away. Zoya asked "I was with him in this room last night?" Old lady smiled "yes dear you were in this room with your husband and I must tell you he loves you so much, the way I saw him concerned for you yesterday made me remember my good old days whe I was young and my blissful married life. Your are really luck to have him, now please lie down for sometime, I will come after sometime to give you a sponge bath." She went out. Zoya "Asad told he is my husband? Is he playing with me like I played on him? Is this some sort of tit for tat game.? She thought. All the day she stayed there and waited for him but he didn't come and when he didn't turn up she started to get worried. She tried for his number but it was switched off. May she should go looking for him but where, if she went ,she would be caught and then there is no third escape from her step mom and Akram. She was confused now "what if something happened to him, she remembered all her moments with Asad during their New York tour, she remembered how Asad said sweet things to her last night while saving her."She resolved that she will go finding for him may be his life is in danger since he had helped her to escape. She stood up put a shawl around her head and held it with her teeth covering almost her face. She sprinted towards the door without even informing the old lady who was shouting at her and asking where she was going.

Zoyas House

"Mumani, main apki baat manke aaj tak zoya se tameez se peshani koshish kit hi, lekin ab pani sar ke upar se jaa chukka hai, yeh dusri baar aisa hua ki, vo bhaag gayi, hamai ankhon main dhool jhouk kar, aur hum haath malte rah gaye," Razia "fikr mat karo Akram beta, main jald hi uska pata laga lungi, kahan jayegi, yeh shahar chod kar, koun hai uska iss duniya main hamare siva, thoda din kahin guzaregi phir jab akal tikhane ajayegi, tho vapis bhi ajayegi, mulle ke doud masjid thak, samje."

At the cottage

Asad returned back to find zoya is not there, he panicked. The old lady said that she ran out without saying anything to her inspite of calling her. Asad now more worried, did she knew that I have come to know about her identity that she hid from me? is she feeling guilty for having played upon me? Why the hell did she leave inspite of his telling her to wait. He looked at the application his hands and crashed down on his knees. Now where will I go and find her, If I wait here, anything happens to her, if her stepmom takes her away again, he couldn't think of losing her again. He held his head in both hands and bent down. "yah Allah ab kahan doonde main unhe?" The old lady softly kept her hand on his head "So you both are engaged and going to be married soon" Asad looked up at her and saw that she had caught his lie. Old lady smiled and said "Son I did see that how much you love her, last night how you kept yourself almost awake by sitting in that chair, every hour to see whether she was comfortable, go and get your love, its not late, Go son and don't forget to wish at Bethesda Fountain, whatever you wish is granted by the angel there and she gives him a coin. Put this into the fountain and make a wish, this coin is the last remembrance of my loving husband who left for heavenly abode leaving me behind. Now I give this to you, along with my blessings too. Go son, don't make it late." Asad before leaving said "if by chance she returns ask her to wait for here itself" Old lady assured him. Asad looked at the coin the old lady gave and remembered Zoyas words at the fountain one day ago. "May be its hard for you to believe but when you find yourself really helpless and all the doors are closed, then perhaps you should try it, you know when you seek something it should bewith sincerity not for testing whether it will work." Asad ridiculous. Flash back ends

At the fountain

Zoya first went to Usma house and then tried his phone number, but then it was switched off. She said to Usma its really dangerous for her to stay here since she had been found out by her step mom and may be her life will also be in problem and she cant risk it now and also told Usma that by chance if her Asad uncle returns tell him that she would be waiting at Bethesda Fountain for him. Usma hugged her and kissed her too. Zoya was standing at Bethesda fountain staring at the gurgling sound of the splashing waters, last time one day ago when both were there Zoya as a guide told him that his fountain fulfilled wishes of the people who come here and throw coins into it. Flashback starts Asad simply brushed it off "stupid, aisa kuch nahi hota hai" Zoya "then you should definitely try once" Asad "why should I try, I don't believe in it, its all just ways to attract tourists nothing more" Zoya "may be but the coins here are taken for charity only, so their blessings will be there, many people's wishes have been granted by the angel here."Flash back ends. Zoya searched for a coin but alas her fingers were running all over her body to search something then finally her hands stuck at her neck chain. She just snatched the chain from her neck which made a deep cut on her neckline, blood was flowing in a perfect line, soon her white attire was dripped in red color. She pulled it out to see a gold coin, the same gold coin given by her abbu which she had wore on her neck chain as a pendant. She looked at one glance, closed her eyes "I wish nothing but Asad" and threw the coin as far as she could. And after hearing its splashing noise she opened her eyes, she waited there all the evening, it became night now, still no traces of him. She was already weak but now more blood loss was causing her dizziness. Soon she felt black out in front of her eyes. Asad was searching for Zoya everywhere now, he even went to her house and found secretly that Zoya was not there. He had doubts on Akram, so he had followed him too, but in vain. Zoya was not with him either. Asad desparately put his hands in his pocket. "kahaan ho zoya tum" He felt the coin given by that old lady and her advice to him. He wasted no more time and went straight to Bethesda fountain, he was standing right opposite to where zoya was lying unconscious on the ground. He closed his eyes and remembered Zoyas words again Flashback "May be its hard for you to believe but when you find yourself really helpless and all the doors are closed, then perhaps you should try it, you know when you seek something it should be with sincerity not for testing whether it will work." Ends. Asad close his eyes and whispered "agar yahan koi shakti hai, tho usko aaj sabit karna hoga ki vo hai, agar meri mohabbat paak hai,saaf hai, tho muje meri zoya zaroor milegi" He threw the coin into the fountain and opened his eyes. He was now unknowingly hoping and believing what he wished comes true, he had started to believe in the wishing fountain now. Yes Zoyas words came true, when you are really helpless, you start believing in some thing which you don't and hope that it comes true because you were sincere in making that wish. Asad stood there with his hands on his pocket unknown that zoya was on the other side lying unconscious. He walked away after some time spending there.

Usmas house

Really being tired he returned to Usma who was now impatiently waiting for him. As soon as he came home Usma launched herself in his arms and started crying and Asad pacified her and asked what was the matter. Usma in between her sobs said Zoya had come and she told that she would be waiting for him at Bethesda Fountain. Asad stunned that Zoya came looking for him and unknowingly he was in the same place where Zoya was waiting for him.

At the fountain

Asad and Usma were now recklessly searching for Zoya shouting her name all throughout the park. Bethesda Fountain is located inside Central Park and hence its vast and not easy to search a person. Asad and Usma having searched at almost places reached the fountain again. Usma "are yeh tho wishing fountain hai, mamu pls ek coin dijiye na, main coin dalungi, aur wish karungi ki phoppi mil jaye, simple" Asad smiled sadly at her innocent words, he too did something an hour before here, only he knows how hopeful he was now coming back to this fountain that he will get to find his Zoya. He gave her a coin and thought let her wish too, may be childrens wishes are heard fast. Usma closed her eyes and wished "angel please give me back my zoppi" Asad looked at her with a "what was that look?" and threw the coin with all might, The coin flew through the air in a parabolic style and without falling inside the fountain waters it landed right on the other side of the fountain. Usma "mera coin pani main nahi gira, iska matlab muje zoppi nahi milegi" she said in a chidish voice. Asad hugged her and said "aisa nahi kehte, zoya mil jayegi, hum vo coin dubara phekenge, chalo" Usma ran ahead of him to search the undropped coin. She stumbled over something while running, fell flat on her stomach and was crying now. Asad quickly ran to her and there he saw Zoya lying on the floor, unconscious with blood all over the neck. Asad both panicked and relieved at the same time to see Zoya. He pacified Usma and both of them returned to Usmas house carrying Zoya with them.

Usmas House

Asad tucked Zoya in bed, carefully bandaged her neck and decided to stay with her all night. He called for a doctor too. Doctor examined her and told that she has lost considerable amount of blood and needs to take complete rest for a good recovery. She is very weak now. He asked Usma to pack her things. Although she agreed he knew that it was done half heartedly. He needed to speak to the little and make her comfortable before leaving New York. Asad saw Usma fingering her parents photos, albums, etc and keeping it in her bags. He came upto her and sat down with her. He pulled Usma to his lap and kept his chin against her cheeks. "Usma, dekho, main janta hoon, ki aap India nahi ana chahti hai, lekin main apse ek vada zaroor karta hoon, apko vahan koi takleef nahi hogi, sab apse bohot pyar karege, apko apne palkon bar bitayenge" Usma asked "Hitler Nani bhi?" Asad couldn't guarantee about her and he sighed "Ah unhe manana sabse mushkil baat hai" Usma "kis baat ke liye manana?" Usma asked innocently buttoning her eyes. Asad smiled seeing her face "Zoya ko hum leke tho jaraha hai, par dadi ko kaise manaye iss bare main soch raha hoon" Usma "Don't worry mamu tabto main India zaroor chalungi, uss hitler nani ki chutti karne, mere hote hue, aap pareshan mat huyiye, main hoon na, main uss hitler nani ko samjaungi ki app phoppi se kitna mohabbat karte ho" She kept her small cute hands on Asads cheeks. Asad "yeh hi tho problem hai Usma, unhe mohabbat naam se chid hai" Usma "eh, kyun" Asad "unke jawani main, vo kissise beintehaa mohabbat karti thi, lekin phir unhe dhoka hi mila," Usma "Haww, phir?" Asad "phir kya, phir unki shaadi hogayi, bache hogaye, bachon ke bache hogaye, lekin aaj bhi mohabbat lafze se chid thi hai" Usma "tabto Hilter nani ka zaroor kuch karna padega" She kept her fingers under her chin and tapped it thinking. Asad "chup shaitan ki bachi" and he pulled her into a bear hug and they were giggling. They heard some noises coming and went out to see what was happening.

Some goons had broke in and they were taking and unconscious zoya with them on their shoulders. Asad baffled at the sudden attack and then it emereged into a fierce battleground. Asad was successful in saving Zoya from them and called the police and got hem arrested. He decided before it gets too late, he should now leave to India with Zoya and Usma.

Next Chapter : Confessions, Homecoming and heartbreaks galore.

Chapter Fifteen: The final showdown

Usma House

Everybody were at breakfast table. Zoya brought Gaffur on a wheelchair. Gaffur was more ecstatic and cheerful than his past days. Slowly he was regaining his strength too and he was showing gradual improvement in his vital functions. But Asad and Zoya's marriage was still in the melting pot. Everybody was waiting for Badi bi to arrive. Badi bi came with Usma on her hips. She placed Usma on her chair and she took the seat. Everybody eyes were glued on her only as if she was a show piece item. Badi bi asked "aisa kya dekh rahe ho tum sab, kya main koi item lag rahi hoon?" Gaffur stifled a laugh and Usma giggled. Asad was jaw dropped, while Zoya turned away her head laughing. Badi Bi ordered "chalo shuru karo, nashte ke baad muje ek ehem faisla lena hai" Asad immediately knew which was the decision that she was talking about. Even Zoya was too nervous. Gaffur was uncertain. Asad started "Badi bi main..." Cut off by Badi bi "Asad, maine kaha na nashta ke baad, tho nashte ke baad" She started eating her breakfast and Usma too accompanied her. Asad and Zoya were just playing with the food and were not interested in eating but rather they wanted to talk to Badi bi about their marriage and convince her. Badi bi stopped in between "kya hua tum dono khana kyun nahi kha rahe ho, kya aasmaan tood pada hai, yah tum dono bhoogaartal pe ho?" Asad and Zoya immediately started nibbling something as they didn't want to earn displeasure from Badi bi. Usma again giggled.

Zoya was sitting opposite to Asad and in between Badi was sitting. Asad saw Zoya nervous and wanted to relax her, so he thought of playing footsie under the table. He lifted his leg and stretched to reach Zoya's and he started caressing her legs with his toes. Zoya was still tensed and her eyes were set on Badi bi only looking pathetically at her. Asad thought " why the hell she is not responding to my call" Asad immediately got a whacking from Badi bi "Asad yeh mera pair hai" Asad immediately withdrew his foot embarrassed and mumbled sorry. "Badi bi vo muje khujli ho rahi thi pairon main, issliye main, I was helping myself with the legs of the table in scratching" Badi bi pressed her lips to suppress her laughter. Zoya was embarrassed that Asad took such a step in a serious situation and was glaring at Asad for doing this stupidity and being caught red handedly by badi bi. Asad eyed a sorry to her.

Asad and Zoya just had something from their plate, and was waiting for Badi bi to finish her breakfast to hear her epic decision. Badi bi washed her hands and wiped her mouths with the towel. And now she announced "maine faisla liya hai ki" everybody looking at her with glued eyes and open mouths , she repeated "maine faisla liya hai ki agale do din ke andhar main, Usma aur Asad vapis Bhopal jayenge.. " cut off by Asad "Badi bi ...aap aisa nahi kar sakte hai" Badi bi "tum hamesha mere poori baat sune baigar beech main tang adate ho" Asad "jee kehiye badi bi" Badi bi "tho main kya keh rahi thi" Asad "vo vapis jane ke bare main" Badi bi "haan, hum vapis jaa rahe hain, do din main aur do din main yahan Asad aur zoya ka nikah karne ke baad, kyunki Zoya ke abbu Bhopal tak safar nayi kar payenge iss halat main" Then only Asad aur Zoya realized that badi bi was actually playing them and they were fooled. Gaffur laughed whole heartedly, "Ayesha tumhara yeh purana tareeka hai, sabko akhir waqt tak suyi ke nok par rakh kar phir asli baat bolna, gayi nahi tumhari yeh adaat" Badi bi had tears in her eyes "tumhe abhi bhi sab kuch yaad hai Gaffur" Gaffur "main tho kuch bhoola hi nahin tha, lekin abto vo sirf haseen yadein banker reh gayi hai, jisse kabhi kabhi main yaad kar leta hoon" Badi bi "Gaffur muje maaf kardo, maine barson pehle tumhe galat samja tha" Gaffur " galat tho main bhi tha, muje tumse baat karna chahiye tha, jane se pehle, shayad hum apni mohabbat ke liye lad nayi paye aur halaton se samjhouta kar liya tha, lekin saalon baad humhari vo adhuri prem kahani ko poora kiya Asad aur Zoya ne, muje Asad main vo purana Gaffur aur Zoya main vo jawan Ayesha dikh rahi hai, lekin fark sirf itna hai ki hum ne kabhi apni mohabaat ko haasil karne ke liye, inki tarah ne lade, aur yeh dono, ek dusre ke liye kuch bhi kar guzarne ko tayyar hai" Badi bi "Kyun Asad agar main nahi mani tho tum Zoya ko leke bhag gaye hote na" Zoya replied "nahi badi bi aisa mat kahiye, unhone hamesha aapki izzat ki hai, aur kaha ki vo apko iss nikah ke liye raazi karenge, unke zehen main aise khayal kabhi bhi nahi aya tha, shayad hume thoda aur ladna padta agar aap nahi mani hoti tho, aur hume yakeen tha ki hum apko mana lete, lekin gharwalo ko takleef deke hum dono ek zindagi manzoor nahi tha Badi bi" Asad said "main vo galat nahi dourahata jo aapi ne kiya, lekin apni mohabbat ke liye zaroor khada hota, main uska haath kaise chod sakta hoon" Badi bi felt so proud of Asad and Zoya, she called both asad and zoya and half hugged them together each one on one side. Badi bi said "aaj muje apne bachon par naaz hai" Asad and Zoya entwined their fingers at the back of Badi bi indicating that they will be there for each other always and forever and looked into each other eyes resting their heads on Badi bi's chest. Gaffur's heart overwhelmed with emotions and he was crying at the scene in front of him. He was seeing his Zoya safe and in right hands, after all that is what a father wants when he gives his daughter away in marriage.

Zoya's mehndi

Everything was decided on super fast basis and Gaffur had arranged the best of the wedding planners in New York to manage Zoya and Asad's wedding. It was Zoya's mehndi today. Zoya was wearing a lavishly designed outfit with gold works in it and with contrast choli and a matching dupatta. But she chose to keep her make up minimum and jewellery for name sake. She wore the wedding ring, the bangles which Asad had got her and the anklets which Asad presented her and a matching necklace and ear rings. She simply breath takingly beautiful on her mehndi day. Asad was banned from the area totally as it was a ladies function. He seated himself in a distant position from where he could see his zoya being adorned with mehndi. He called her to say that she was looking very pretty today and he cant wait for tomorrow to come and make her his forever. Usma was holding the phone for Zoya. Zoya blushed hearing Asad's statement over the phone and smiled shyly looking at a distant Asad. Finally mehndi function started, mehndi cones were filled and zoya was seated between a swarm of ladies who were singing and dancing on mehndi songs, teasing zoya and finally the designer finished her job of adorning Zoyas hands and feet. The designer teased "are banno kahin aur lagana hai kya mehndi tho ab batao, main bohot busy mehndi wali hoon, ek baar chali gayi phir mushkil se milti hoon" Zoya blushed but thought of something. Zoya had already told the designer to etch Asads name artistically in her hands so that its difficult for him to find out.

Finally the function was over without much hustle fustle, Zoya showed badi bi her mehndi which had come out very well. Badi bi teased her with the deep red color saying about how much Asad loves her and all. She was all red like tomato. "ruko idhar main abhi Asad ko bhejti hoon, vo ladka subah se tumse milne ke liye betaab hai, aur haan kaal ka poora din aap dono ek dusre ko nahi dek sakte, samji" Zoya nodded in obedience Badi bi "aur haan no cheating,main jaanti hoon ki tum good girl ho, lekin phir bhi muje mere pote par koi bharosa nahi hain" Zoya laughed and she lovely cupped her cheeks "asad abhi ajayega"

Zoya was waiting for Asad and after sometime he came, Zoya was so happy to see him that she hugged him tightly without leaving a gap between them. Asad too held her tight and inhaled her scent and buried his head at the crook of the neck and kissed her hairs. They broke apart and zoya spoke "Badi bi ne kaha hai ki, hum kal poora din ek dusre nahi mil sakte" Asad "kya, lekin mainto apko dekhunga" Zoya "shhh" be a good boy, Asad vaise bhi Badi bi ne kaha tha ki unko apne pote bilkul yakeen nahi hai" Asad pouted "kya badi bi aisa kaha" Zoya "hmm" Asad "lekin main apko dekhe baigaar kais ek poora din katunga" Zoya whispered "Asad bas kal k din ki hi tho baat hai, phir hum hamesha ke liye ek hojayenge" Asad "muje uss pal ka besabri se intezaar hai Zoya" Zoya asked Asad to find his name in her mehndi, she was so sure that he will not but Asad being architect he found out but faked ignorance asked Zoya to ask for some gift, she said she will ask it when the time comes and let it go now. They both stood against the moonlight in each other embrace. Soon Suma came running and said Badi bi has called them below.

Since all the guests were gone and there were only family people left, Badi bi requested Gaffur to sing a ghazal to cherish the past once more and also to celebrate zoyas happiness. "gaffur aaj ek ghazal hojaye, aaj tho humari zoya ke haath main asad ke naam ka mehndi lag gaya hai, kal uska nikah hai, aur vo tumhe chodkar chali jayegi, aaj uske liye ek ghazal..hojaye, vaise tumhare jane ke baad maine bhi ghazal suna band kar diya tha" Zoya was surprised to know that her abbu could sing ghazals "abbu aap ne kabhi bataya nahi ki aap ghazal gaa sakte hai" Gaffur replied in a broken tone "ghazal tho kabka choot gaya tha, aaj phir se purane din yaad agaye, aaj main meri Zoya ki ruksati aur usse ek nayi khushal zindagi milne par, aaj main apna yeh nagma suna raha hoon." Gaffur sang one of the saddest ghazals and indeed that night was a truly teary night especially for Gaffur and Zoya. Badi bi listened to Gaffur's ghazal and enjoyed it after a long time.

The Day of Nikah

Usma was given the duty to spy upon Asad whether he was trying to meet Zoya and she did her job wonderfully. Asad for the first time felt that Usma was really iriritating. "Mamujaan, aaj aap mumani se nahi mil sakte, yaad haina, phir baar baar apke kadam uss taraf kyun jaa rahe hai" Asad tried to bribe Usma by giving her he favourites but Usma did not budge "Hilter nani ka hokum hai, bhala himmat hai kissi main usske khilaf jaye, aur agar apne mumani se milne ki koshish ki, tho main Badi nahi se shikayat kardungi, phir apka nikah cancel" "Are meri maa aisa ghazab mat karna, main zoya se nahin miloonga, khush" Usma "good boy" She kissed his cheek and he mumbled "shaitan ki bachi, ek baar nikah hone do, phir main tumhe bhi dekh loonga" Usma "kuch kaha apne" Asad "nahi tho"

All the gents were seated in one room and the ladies in another room. Zoya was not brought now. There was stills some more time. Asad was finding ways to have a glimpse of zoya but he failed miserably due to Usmas continuous threats. Asad found that Usma is not lingering around him for the past one hour. She had disappeared somewhere. Asad finally got a chance to meet Zoya. He was going to enter the room to see her as his bride but then stopped his feet at the door and remembered Zoya's last night talk about how it was considered a bad omen for the boy and girl to meet before their marriage. He just kept his hand on the door and felt her and left from there without meeting her.

Zoya was brought down by Badi bi and some of the ladies holding a chaddar over her head in the ladies room. Zoya was nervous and tensed. It could be seen on her face. She was fidgeting her dupatta and was sweating too. Her lips were quivering and her hands were shaking. One of her hands were fisted as though she held something securely in it. Badi bi noticed the changes in Zoya who was pretty alright an hour ago when she went to check on her. Badi bi asked "Zoya, kya baat hai, tum pareshan ho, kuch der pehle to sab teek tha, ab kya hua, muje batao, main tumarhi bhi to dadi hoon" Zoya looked at her.

The nikah ceremony

Asad was very impatient, eagerly waiting for all the ceremonies to be over and to be with. At that time somebody came shouting that bride refused to marry "Dulhan ne qubool nahi hai bol diya" Asad was swept away from his feet hearing it. His mind wandered into thoughts "why will Zoya refuse marriage, there is something serious, otherwise Zoya will not refuse like this." He immediately rushed to the ladies room breaking all the rules, he saw a totally devastated Zoya sitting and crying. Her beautiful face had tears stains both we and dry. God knows how much time she was crying. Asad came upto her and asked what happened why she was crying. She shoved a crushed letter into his hand and ran away from there immediately before anyone could stop her. Asad opened the letter and read it:

"agar tum Usma ki zindagi chahti ho, tho Asad Ahmed khan se yeh nikah thoda do, aur seedha hamare paas chali aao, hum tumhara, tumhare abbu ki purani office main intezaar kar rahe hai, agar tumne aane main jadli nahi ki to hum Usma ki lash tum tak pohuncha denge, samji" -Apka khatim Akram

Asad clenched his fists and his jaws twitched. He wanted to kill that bas***d for once and for all. He repented for letting him go off easily at Zoya's house. He asked Gaffur about his old office and picked the address and immediately left the venue.

Gaffurs old office

Usma was slapped and tortured by Akram. She going on crying and the suddenly a voice yelled was heard. "Meri Usma ko haath lagane ki himmat kaise ki tumne" Akram "oh tho aap ayi hai Zoya ke badle main, lekin maine to Zoya ko an eke liye kaha tha" he clicked his tongue "kabhi bhi meri baat nahi sunti hai, apko pata hai main usse kitna pyar karta hoon" Badi bi shouted "apni gandi zubaan se meri paak bahu ka naam mat lo, kamzad insaan, ek choti si mazoom bachi ka sahare lekar tum zoya ko pana chahte ho, kabhi nahi, main yeh nahi hone dungi, meri hote hue tum aisa kabhi nahi kar paoge" Badi bi just raised her walking stick and whirled it over suddenly. Akram did not expect it all of a sudden, he got hit on his head and he fell down. Badi bi "abhi bhi iss bude badan main itni taqat hai ki vo meri bachi ko bacha sake" She started untying Usma and freeing her. Usma "Badi nani iss aadmi ne muje mara" Badi bi was pacifying her that she was attacked from behind by Razia "rassi jal gayi magar bhal nahi gaya" Badi bi fell unconscious on the floor. She too was now tied along with Usma. Soon Zoya came running there seeing both Badi bi and Usma tied, she vehemently pleaded with Razia, "Allah ke vaaste ammi aap unhe chod dijiye, main apke naam sare jaidad likhne ke liye tayyar hoon, lekin please unhe chod dijiye" Razia agreed for that "Akram jaldi se jaidad ke kagzaat lao, isse pehle ki zoya rani apna irada badal de" But Akram had other intentions "Mumani, aap vaise iss umr main itne sare paise lekar karenge kya, nahi khud ka parivar hai, nahi aulad hai, aur nahi tum an jawan ho ki kissi aur ke saath zindagi guzar sako, issliye sara jaidad maine apne naam karne ke soch liya hai, aur saath main Zoya bhi" He laughed evily. Razia perplexed at his plan "yeh tum kya keh raho Akram, maine itne barson tak yeh sab aise chodne ke liye nahi mehnat ki hai, aur aaj tum keh raho ki, tum apne naam sara jaidad karva raho ho, main aisa bilkul nahi hone dungi, harkis nahi, mat bhoolo Akram ki tum jahan ho meri vajah se ho " Akram said "apne apne matlab ke liye muje istemal karna chaha, isme mera koi faydaa nahi tha, mumaanijaan" Zoya said "dekha ammi, apke apne bhanje ne kaise apke peet chura bhouka hai, sari umar apne uski tarafdari ki, apne usse itna sar chadaya ki ab vo apke kandhon par baitkar, apke kaan kat raha hai, dekhiya ammi, burayi se kuch haasil nahi hota, apne muje ek dardnaak bachpan diya aur abbu ko bhi teek se nahi rakha, agar apne mere saar par ek ammi banker haath rakha hota, tho aaj apke paas kuch na hote huye bhi sab kuch hota, abhi waqt hai ammi sambhal jayeye, apne behakte huye kadmo ko rokiye" Razia was ashamed hearing Zoya's words. Razia "muje maaf kardo beta, main galat thi, lekin ab tumhare saath kuch galat hone nahi doongi" She told Akram to release everybody and let them go but Akram orderd Razia to be tied and she was going on shouting. Akram "vah zoya rani, tum tho bohot hi siyani baat kar rahi ho, ab thoda siyani ka kaam bhi hojaye, agar tum iss bachi aur iss buddi ki jaan bachana chahti ho tho, in kagaz par sign karo, varna mere ek ishare par, vo jo vahan khade haina, unke goli ka nishana teek unpar lagega."

He smiled devilishly showing his black ugly teeth. Zoya flinched seeing him. Zoya sat down and took the pen and she started to sign the documents one by one with shivering hands and dripping tears. Everybody including Razia was telling not to sign but she continued. She reached towards the last pages and she saw the title Nikahnaama. Zoya immediately stopped signing Akram "kya hua zoya rani, ruk kyun gayi" Zoya "akram yeh main nahi sign karungi, tumhe jaidad chahiye tha, tho maine sab kuch tumhara naam kar diya hai, lekin yeh nikahnama iss par main sign nahi karungi," she tore the nikahnama with her hands and threw it on Akrams face. "ab inhe sab chod do, maine sare papers par signatures kar diya hai" While Akram was checking the papers she moved onto untie Usma, she had almost done that Akram caught her by her throat "itni asani se nahi meri jaan, nikah nahi hua tho kya hua, suhaag raat tho mana sakta hoon" Zoya now got alert. Zoya warned Akram.

Akram menacingly approached Zoya. Razia shouted "khuda ke vaaste Zoya ko chod do, usse kuch mat karo, tumhe jaidad mil chukka ab to usse chod do" Badi bi slowly got into her senses . She too started yelling seeing Akram manhandling Zoya. Zoya was pulled by her hair, and she was dragged to the other room by Akram. Zoya was crying and retaliating but everything in vain, Akrams grip was too hard for her to resist. Usma by the time loosened her hands and was free now. She untied Badi bi and Razia and immediately the trio went to save Zoya. But Akram had locked the door. The threesome was banging the door telling him to stop But Akram threw Zoya over the bed and she fell flat on her belly. Akram pulled her dupatta and seized it almost tearing her choli a little. Zoya now kept both her hands on her chest in order to evade Akram's evil eyes. She was yelping, crying, shouting. She heard Badi bi's Usmas and Razia voice outside the door. She wanted to let them in but she could approach the door, the biggest obstacle being Akram. Zoya was taking one step back with Akram taking one step ahead. He was showing his black ugly decayed teeth and his evil laugh. Zoya had enough she started throwing things at him which she got on the way, a vase, a painting, a glass, a pen stand, a table weight but Akram was ducking everything. Zoya ran out of resources. She was really tired and didnt have any energy left in her to fight Akram. She was gasping for breath and was panting in short breaths "Dekho Akram mere paas mat ana, agar Asad ko pata chala ki tumne mere saath yeh kiya hai, tho tumhari khair nahi, agar muje kuch hogaya tho Asad tumhe maaar dalenge, tum unki gusse ko nahi jante ho" Akram "band karo apna yeh bakwas aur usse batayega koun, usse kuch pata nahi chalne wala, ki tum kahan ho, ek baar mere saath guzaro tho phir vapis uske paas chali jana, vaise bhi ek raat ke baad tum mere koi kaam nahi ho" He tried to pull zoya, zoya slipped away again. She went to the other side of the wooden cot while Akram was on the other.

By the time Asad had reached the venue and came there hearing the wailing noises. Soon he was informed that Akram was with Zoya inside the room and he was trying to force him upon her. Asad couldn't take it anymore he pushed and banged the door but it was of no use. Asad took a few steos back and came running and just kicked the door and it fell down to broken pieces to witness a helpless and forlorn Zoya on the floor to be towered by Akram. He caught hold of Akram's throat and raised him in the air and just smashed him onto the ground. Meanwhile Zoya covered herself with the bedsheet there. He just kicked his stomach with his legs umpteen times, punched on his face, broke his teeth, and he smashed his head against the wall. Akram fell down unconscious. Seeing him unconscious the rest of the goons fled from the scene. Asad rescued everybody and was going out. Razia told "ek minute". She went inside and brought the property papers which were signed by Zoya. She tore the papers and threw it away. Zoya had already fainted and hence Asad picked her up. And soon everybody left for house. Akram was arrested by police and taken away.

After the nikah at Zoya's house

Asad and Zoya nikah was over with the blessings of everybody and Zoya was taking rukhsati from her mother and fathe, though they were her foster parents, she couldn't feel but happy for this occasion. Razia had changed altogether. Now she could see a devoted wife and a doting mother in her. Zoya was standing in front of Razia with tears in her eyes Razia hugged her and said "meri kahi huye baton ko hamesha zehen main rakhna Allah tumhe khush rakhe" They way she made her dress for her nikah and gave a motherly advice to her before her marriage. Zoya remembers Razia telling her "main jaanti hoon ki zindagi bhar maine tumhe ek maa ka pyar nahi diya, lekin aaj tumhara nikah hai, issliye tumhari ammi hone ken ate aaj main tumhe kuch naseehat dena chahoongi, dekho zoya aaj ke baad, tumhara har kadam tumhare shouhar aur uske parivar ke bhalayi , bhetari aur unke khushi ke liye hoga, ab vohi tumhara parivar hai, tum job hi karogi, unke izzat aur khushi ko saamne rakh kar karogi, apne abbu ke naam ko roshan karogi, kabhi apne maayke walon ka saar jhukne nahi dena, ab tum uss parivar ki izzat ho, ab tumhe uss ghar ko ek gharonda banana hai, apne pyar se, apne yakeen se, apne apnepan se, kabhi tumhe aisa lage ki tumhe ek maa ki zaroorat hai, tho main hamesha tumhare saath hoon, yeh yaad rakhna" Zoya was teary eyed hearing all this. Razia hugged Zoya and kissed her forehead and then led her to the hall Flash back ends. She called in broken voice "ammi" Razia "Zoya" and cried on Razias bosom for sometime and said "ammi abbu ka khayal rakhiyega" and Razia said "apne abbu ka fikr mat karo Zoya, main unka acha sa dyan rakhungi, maine jaan liya hain Zoya ki zindagi bohot choti hoti hai, aur hume apne zindagi ke liye khud zimmedaar hote hai, agli baar jab aogi, tum dekhna tumhare abbu kaise dono tango par khade hote hai"

She then moved on to a Gaffur on a wheel chair. She called "abbu" Gaffur became emotional "Zoya, jaa rahi ho sasural apne abbu ko chodkar" Zoya "aap kahe tho main yahi New York main ruk jati ho" Gaffur laughed a bit "main to mazak kar raha tha, ek na ek din, betiyon ko apna ghar chodkar jana hi padta hai, apne abbu ka ghar chodkar apne shouhar ke ghar main jaa rahi ho, uss ghar ko khusyion se bhar na, jaise tumhe meri zindagi khushiyon se bhar di thi, tumhare abbu tumhe bohot miss karenge beta, kabhi kabhi bulana yah phir mujse milne ana, kehna tho yeh chahiye ki tumhe apne sasuraal main mayke ki yaad bhi na aye, itna pyar mile, lekin kya kare Zoya, tumse hum itna yar jo karte hai, aaj muje jalan ho rahi hai ki tumhare pyar main aur bhi hissedaar agaye, mere alava" Zoya pouted "abbu," Badi bi told "Gaffur tum chinta mat karo, Zoya tho humare ghar main raaj karegi, aur hum sabke dil main bhi, aur vo zamana gaya, abto modern zamaana hai, zoya aap dono milne beech beech main ayegi, nikah hogaya iska matlab yeh tho nahi haina ki vo apne maa baap ko bhool jaye, khaas kar tum jaise abbu ko tho bilkul nahi, jisne sari zindagi sirf Zoya ke liye bitaya" Gaffur and Razia "hume khushi hai ki Zoya aapke ghar ki bahu hai, humhe yakeen hai ki usse vahan koi takleef nahi hogi" Gaffur took Asad's hands in his and said "tumhare shukriya kaise ada karoon beta Asad " Asad "nahi nahi abbu, beta kehte bhi hai, aur shukriya bhi maang rahe hai" Gaffur hugged him and said "Zoya ka khayak rakhna" Asad nodded.

At the Bethesda Fountain, once again

Usma said since she was back, she show Badi bi the places of interest. And after seeing everything once again they were in front of that famous fountain. Badi bi asked "are tum muje iss fountain ke saamne kyun lekar ayi ho Usma, aise kya khas baat hai isme, aise bohot sare Bhopal main bhi tho hai" Zoya giggled and Asad stifled his laugh. Usma beamed "iss fountain main coin dalkar wish karne se wish poori hojati hai" Badi bi "eh, aisa bhala hota hai kya, kabhi kissi ka maanga sach hua hai kya" Usma gave a devislish laugh and said pointing at Asad "haan hua haina Badi nani, mamu ne issi fountain main coin dala tha aur mumani ko wish kiya tha, aur unhe vo mil gayi" Asad and Zoya got embaraased at her comment. Badi bi "chup badmash ruk main abhi batati hoon tumhe" she ran behind Usma. Asad said "vaise Usma ne sach hi tho kaha" Zoya eyes widened hearing that "lekin aapko tho isme koi yakeen nahi tha" Asad "jab aap kho gayi thi, aur koi raasta nazar nahi aya, tho maine yahi coin phekar apko maanga tha" Zoya couldn't believe what Asad told "really" Asad "hmm" Zoya "aur" Asad "aur kya aur aap mil gayi" Zoya "vaise maine bhi fountain coin dala tha, aur sirf aur sirf apko manga tha" now Asads eyes widened on hearing that "acha par apne kabhi bataya nahi muje" he now was playing with Zoya's loose locks. "haan uss waqt mere paas koi coin nahi tha Asad, jo tha vo bas ek gold locket tha abbu ne bade pyar se diya tha muje kabhi maine ussi locket ko iss fountain main dalkar apko manga tha" Asad was surprised at her revelation and saw that he was indeed one of the luckiest persons to have Zoya in his life. Asad called Zoya and Zoya "hmm" Asad "chalo aaj phir se coin dalkar wish karte hai" Zoya "seriously" Asad "yes I m serious" Zoya "aaj hum apne liye nahi mangege, hum tho sab kuch milgaya hai, ek dusre ka saath, ek pyara sa parivaar, ek nanhi si Usma, ek pyar karni vali Badi bi aur kya chahiye" Asad "tho batao aaj kya mange" Zoya "aaj hum un sari crazy lovers ke liye wish karte hain jo yahan aake coin dal kar sache dil se apne mohabbat ko mangege, unki dil ki murad poora ho, Zoya aur Asad ki tarah" Asad smiled at her wish, it was selfless, pure and innocent. Both Asad and Zoya wished and threw a coin in the fountain.

Badi now came running after Usma who just made her take a round of the fountain. Usma said "chalo coin dalte haina badi bi, mamu coin please" Asad gave her a coin smiling at her antics. Usma said "Badi nani aap first" She closed her eyes wished something and threw the coin, the coin got stuck somewhere instead of falling inside the waters. Usma "offo Badi nani yeh kya kiya apne, mamu one more coin please" Asad gave her a second one and said "iss baar coin fountain main hi girega naa" Usma "don't worry mamu, iss baar teek pani main hi girega " and she wished and threw it and this time it fell inside the waters. Badi bi "chalo kissika tho wish poora hoga, vaise apne kya manga Usma" Usma replied very bravely "vo Badi nani mere class main ek ladk hai Jalal Hussain, bilkul akdu, lekin muje bohot pasand hai, issliye maine yeh wish kiya ki meri dosti usse hojaye" Everybody stunned at Usma's wish. Asad said " no way Usma vo apka New York nahi hai, vo Bhopal hai, aur phir jab tak aap poora 30 years ki nahi hojati no boy friends" Usma pouted Asad acha 25" Usma twisted her mouth to the other side Asad "acha 21, isse kaam nahi karunga" Usma smiled and said "you are the best mamu in the world "and kissed him" Zoya and Badi bi's jaw dropped. Zoya "Asad aap usko bigaad rahe hai" Asad "nahi bigedegi, vo meri bhaanji hai, I wil take care of it" Usma sitting in Asads arms asked "Badi nani apne kya manga" Badi bi sighed "ab main iss umr aur kya magoongi, kya karen coin tho pain nahi gira, ab yeh sab meri mangne thodi hota hai, aaj kal bache bhi zindagi ko enjoy karne ke baad in sab ke bare main sochte hai" Usma "phir bhi batayiye na" Badi bi "maine yeh manga tha ki jaldi phir se par dadi ban jaun" Asad dropped Usma down hearing this and Zoya hid her face. And the coin which Badi threw fell at this moment in the water unknown to all of them.

Everybody was returning after the wish making scene Zoya tagged at Asad's hands. Asad "what" Zoya" vo mera ek wish rah gaya, yaad hai mehndi vala din ka" Asad "oh haan batayiye kya chahti hai aap" Zoya cleared throat "vo main..." Asad had folded his arms across his chest and standing waiting to hear her wish Asad "jadli kijiye Badi bi bula rahi hai" Zoya "vo main chahti hoon ki..." Asad "ki" Zoya "vo main.." cut off by Asad "aap bakri tarah main main karna band karengi aur wish batayenge please, jaldi kijiye flight ka waqt horaha hai" Zoya again cleared her throat and said in one breath "main chahti hoon ki hum apne suhaagraat private jet mein manaye" and she left it and stared at Asad for sometime to see his reaction. But before she could comprehend her lips were claimed by Asad and she was in a passionate kissing session. Badi bi came to call them and closed her eyes. Usma said "are nani yeh New York hai, yahan yeh sab chalta hai, chaliye"

At the airport

Everybody went to see off Badi and Usma at the airport. Asad had cancelled his and Zoya's tickets as per the Zoya's wish to have her ahem ahem in mid air and told Badi bi that Zoya wants to spend 1 day more in New York since she is leaving NYC forever now. Badi bi got the message that love birds want to have sometime for themselves and hence she too didn't object. Badi bi said to Asad "jald hi vapis ajana, apna kaam khatm karke, vaise abto main kabb main haddi hoon, hmm chalta hai chalta hai, muje bhejkar enjoy karne ka plan hai, haina Asad" Asad was red like a tomato like being caught red handed and Zoya his herseld behind him. Asad said "aisa kuch nahi hai, apke peeche peeche hum bhi ajayenge" Badi bi "Chalo teek hai flight ka waqt hogaya hai, yaad rakhna do budi ankhen tumhara intezar kar rahi hai Bhopal main" Asad " jee, jaldi ajayenge, aap bhi apna khayak rakhiye." She kissed both Asad and Zoya and bid farewell.

Zoya woke up from her sleep after having a weird dream and screamed "nahi" Asad woke up and said "ab kya hua begum sahiba, kuch bura sapna dekha kya" Zoya "Asad kahin badi bi ka manga sach tho nahi hoga" Asad "oho tho apne humhare bache ko sapne main dekha" Zoya "bacha nahi bache vo bhi judva bache" Asad smiled at her dream and looked at lovingly at her Zoya asked "what" Asad kept on inching closer to her and zoya was backing off. Asad whispered "agar aap aise hi karengi tho judva chodiye, ek ka bhi door door thak koi chance nahin" Zoya loudly "oh no" Asad huskily "oh yes" Zoya a little low tone "no" Asad seductively "yes" Zoya a competely toned down "nahi" Asad whispered "haan" Zoya now almost succumbed "haan" Asad "is it a haan" Zoya nodded and Asad came on top of her and covered them with the duvet for a second round of love making of their first night. As the jet roared in high skies, the jet's cabin were filled with moans and screams of the two love birds.

Finally I have completed this SS, this was the last chapter and I have given indeed a long update. Please leave your comments and likes. And let me know how did you find it.

Chapter Two - You stole my heart

Farooqui Mansion

Zoya quietly sneaked out of her room at the middle of the night and checked whether everyone are asleep. She went to Gaffurs room for one last time before leaving and saw him sleeping. She just kissed his forehead and touched his feet. Two drops of tears fell on his feet. He stirred in sleep but didn't wake up. Zoya proceeded towards her room and tied all her dupattas together and made a rope like thing and tied it to the balcony railing. She took some hard cash, her credit card, then all her IDs and certificates etc which were essential along with some clothtes which mainly consisted o tops and jeans only. She quickly thrust everything inta back pack and slowly descended through the rope. She reached down and took almost one last view of her big house and walked towards the gate. Seeing her going out the watchdog barked which made Razia alert. She got up switched on the lights and went to see what was happening. She found the dupatta rope made my Zoya and concluded that she has ran away. She immeditaly took the phone "Ladki bhaag gayi, jitna jaldi hosake apne admiyon ko sheher main failado, muje Zoya kissi bhi keemat par chahiye, zinda, samje"

A Hotel room

Asad had just landed in New York Airport and checked into a hotel room since it was night time. He decided to visit Usma in the morning. The hotel manager had given ultra luxury room to Asad since he was a premium customer. He was invited to a function down in the hall, where the hotel owner's daughters marriage reception was going on. Hotel owner had personally come to invite him to become a part of the function. Asad obliged and said that he will change his clothes and definitely attend it.

On the road

Zoya was now running hither and thither to save herself fromRazia's men as she knew that barking of the dog had surely alerted Razia of her escape. She did not want to fall into that trap again. She saw a dance troupe entering a hotel and ran and joined them in the crowd. She heard the troupe manager discussing that at the eleventh hour where they will go for the main dancer who was supposed to entertain the party tonight. "What are they going to say to their client? Zoya thought for a minute and poked in. The manager asked "who are you?" Zoya said "that's not important,, but I can help you with the dance, I guess your main dancer hasn't come, so can I perform?" Manager "but we need an Indian dancer" Zoya said "don't worry, I know Indian dance" Manger nodded and paid her some money in advance. Zoya being in need took it from him. Zoya went inside the green room and changed herself into kashmiri attire.

Downstairs in the Banquet Hall

The hotel owner introduced the newly weds to everybody and said that there is going to be a small cultural evening tonight. And the dance starts. Zoya was sitting in the middle along with some ladies around and the song "bhoomro bhoomro, shyam rang bhoomro" was playing in the background. Asad entered the hall at that moment and froze at the entrance when he saw Zoya performing. She was animatedly doing the dance steps with her eyes and hands which were beautiful because of small round alta mark and red coloured finger toppings. It made her hands so beautiful and her eyes was the most mesmerizing ones. Asad was nudged by other incoming guests to give way and he shifted close to the stage now. He could almost see Zoya in front of him. He was staring at her for how long he didn't know that he did not realize that Zoyas performance has come to an end. And he snapped out to find that zoya is nowhere. He went and asked about the green room and proceeded. By that time Zoya was spotted by Razias goons and were finding her by forcefully opening all the rooms. Zoya was still in the green room not knowing what to do. She peeped through the key hole to find the goons outside the green room door. Zoya held her breath and quickly turned and stood against the door. Then her eyes fell on something. After sometime, the goons saw a sardarji coming out the green room and asked whether he had seen a girl in kashmiri attire. He denied having seeing any girl there. Goon thought she had again outwitted them. Sardarji proceeded in the opposite direction and frequently looked back at the goons whether they are following and bumped into something rock hard. Sardarji opened eyes to meet a handsome man holding by the waist. Sardariji blinked eyes. Recovering quickly Asad said "Maaf kijijye Sardarji, Aap teek tho haina" Sardar nodded and adjusted his pagadi. Asad for some unknown reason got vibes that he has met him before. He said "yeh aankhen, maine pehle kahi dekhi hai" in the mind. He turned to see that Sardarji had gone. Asad proceeded towards green room and saw the troupe manager there searching for the same girl. Asad asked "vo jo ladki jisne bahar hall main perform kiya tha.. vo kahan hai, main unse milna chahta hoon." Troupe manager replied "are main bhi tho unhe hi doond raha hoon, pata nahi andhi ki tarah ayi aur toofan ki tarah chali gayi, muje thank you bhi bolne ka ek mouka nahi diya" Asad "vo apki troupe member nahi hai?" TManager "jee nahi, muje unka naam thak pata nahi" Asad sighed "koun ho tum, kahan se ayi ho? aur pehle hi nazaar main, main dil aur dimag par chagayi ho, I think you have stolen my heart"

Next Chapter: Helping Each Other

Chapter Eight: Where is the engagement ring? Mahem following

Celebrations Continued

Asad was forcefully dragged by Badi Bi to take position beside Tanveer and everybody was clapping now acknowledging their engagement news. Usma saw Shajahan going with a cake to the centre where Asad and Tanveer were standing. Asad was not at all interested and stood there with a indifferent face. He was fearing that what Zoya must be doing now, he had brought her to India promising happiness and now what he is doing. Usma tagged him suddenly and winked at him. Asad saw her mischievous eyes and concluded that she is upto something. She pulled him down to whisper something in his ears. Asads eyes came out hearing that and gave a look "will that work". Usma blinked to assure him that it will work. Asad said he first needed to talk to Tanveer before their engagement. Tanveer was elated that Asad called her to a private meeting. Badi bi also gave permission. Tanveer and Asad went outside to the garden. Usma gave him a thumbs up and he winked.

In the garden

Tanveer was standing expecting that Asad may say "I love you to her" finally. She was battling her eyelashes and Asad was preparing himself for the drama. Asad finally said "dekho Tannu muje pata hai ki tum iss sagaai se bohot khush ho, lekin sagaai se pehle main tumsse ek sach batana chahta hoon, jo aaj tak mere aur Badi bi ke beech hi tha, yeh sach sunne ke baad tum faisla karna ki tumhe yeh sagaai karna hai ya nahi" Tanveer's expressions changed, she asked faltering "Kaisa sach" Asad amused at her bewildered expression slowly said "vo kya hai ki muje beech beech main doura padta hai" Tanveer now serisouly "kis chees ka doura" Asad bit his lip slightly to hide his smile to see Tannus face and said "pagalpan ka" Tanveer "kya tum pagal ho" with a what the hell expression on her face. Asad got what he wanted from her, he played along. "magar Tannu tumto mujse bohot pyar karti hona, to main pagal hoon isse tumhe koi fark nahi panda chahiye" Tannu "lekin main pagal nahi hoon, ki ek pagal se shaadi karun, are yeh kya zabardasti hai, main kyun ek pagal se shaadi karungi, aur koi ache ladke nahi hai kya Bhopal main, vo tho ammi ne zor diya tho main man gayi, muje koi shouk nahi hai, ek pagal ke saath apni zindagi bitane ka" Asad happily from inside "tho aap mujse pyar nahi karti hai," Tannu "bilkul nahi, vaise ek na ek din nikah karna tha, tho aapse kyun nahi yeh soch kar maine haan ki thi, lekin nikah ke baad apke pagalpan ko bhi jhelna padega, yeh baat pata nahi thi" Asad again very very happy "tho kya aap yeh baat andhar aakar Badi bi se keh satki hai" Tanveer "Kyun nahi, main koi dar nahi kisika yeh meri zindagi ka sawal hai" Asad "tho chalo andhar"

Inside the house

Asad and Tanveer came back and saw commotion in the celebrations going on. Tanveer saw her ammi Hasina saying to Badi bi "are badi bi angooti gayab hogayi tho koi baat nahi, apne sagaai ka elan kardiya bas yeh kafi hai, sara Bhopal main koi nahi hai jo apke kahe huye lafz ko na mane. Angooti ka kya, angooti to bad main bhi to dali ja sakti hai, aaj sara Bhopal jan gaya hai, ab angooti kar rasm sirf ek rasm banke rahe gaya hai, aur apke liye dusri angooti khareed na koi badi baat nahi hai" Tanveer went and tagged her "Idhar ayiye, muje apse kuch kehna hai" Seeing Hasina dragged by tanveer Usma stepped in "are moti, apki beti ki sagaai ki khushi main yeh cake tho khalijiye" and she offered a cake piece to her. Hasina was always a bhukkad and will land at any place where free food is served. Hasina told "are tannu rukh na muje yeh tho khane do" and she took the cake from and gobbled it up within minutes. She almost finished swallowing it up in hurry she felt something stuck in her throat. She held her throat and said "are bachao, mere gale kuch atak gaya hai" She created a big scene that everybody came rushing to see what happened. Hasina was on the floor with Tanveer by her side. Tannu was asking again and again what happned but Hasina held her throat and was rolling her eyes. Badi bi asked "are koi hai, dekho Hasina ko kya hua hai, kya cake main kuch tha kya" Usma came there now and said "Are nani, yeh moti bhi na kitna drama karti hai" she winked at Asad and he understood that it was again all her prank. She continued "Ab dekhiye main kaise iss gale main atki hui chees ko bahar lati hoon." She went behind Hasina and told everybody to back off. Then she went some 10 feet back and came running and gave one big kick on Hasina butt. Hasina got a thump on her butt and something fell out of her mouth. Hasina "hayeee main mar gayi" Everybody "hawww sagaai ki angooti" Hasina was confused. Everybodys jaws dropped seeing the ring on the floor.

Badi bi "yeh sagaai angooti tumhare gale main kaise" Usma tactfully said "nani aap ab bhi pooch rahi hai, ki sagaai angooti inki gale maine kaise, main batati hoon yeh moti aur uski beti dono milkar apko lootne ki plan main the, sagaai ki angooti ki keemat dekh kar inki neeyat badal gayi, inhone sagaai angooti apne mooch main chupayi, aur jab maine cake diya, vo cake ke saath angooti bhi nigal gayi, issliye tho angooti gayab hona ka koi dukh nahi tha inhe" Hasina "are yeh badatameez bachi kya keh rahi hai, jhooti kahin ki main kyun angooti gayab karungi" Usma "kyun nahi karengi apki nazar Badi bi ki doulat par jo thi, angooti gayab, aur dusri mil jayegi, haina,moti" Tanveer now retorted "chup bilkul chup, itni si hai aur zubaan dekho kitni lambi hai,meri ammi ne kuch nahi kiya hai, aur haan muje pata nahi tha ki, iss ghar ke log jhoote hai, hum ladki wale hi sahi tho kya hua, humse inhone ek badi baat chupaya hai" Badi Bi "are humne kya chupaya hai Tanveer, ab jobhi hai sach tho yehi hai ki tumhari ammi ne angooti ki chori ki issliye tho angooti gayab hone par bhi koi fark nahi pada unhe, aur kitni asani se dusri angooti ki baat kar rahi thi. Chor kahin ki." Tanveer "jhoot ammi ne nahi apne bola hai, apne sach chupaya hai humse, ki apke yeh pota Asad jinse aap meri sagaai karne wali thi, usko pagalpan ka doura pad tha hai" Badi bi "yeh kya anap shanap bak rahi ho jab tumhari chori pakdi gayi tho usne chupane ke liye mere Asad ke bare main afaye faila rahi ho, sharam nahi ati, Asad ko koi bimari nahi hai, apna jhoot chupane ke liye tum iss had tak gir jaogi maine socha nahi tha, abhi ke abhi nikal jao yahan se, main yeh sagaai thod thi hoon, tum jaise chor logo se muje koi rishta nahi rakhna hai, acha hua sagaai se pehle hi asliyat ka pata chal gaya, varna mere Asad ki zindagi barbadi hojati. Asad ki marzi ke khilaaf jakar main usse yeh sagaai karne par majboor kiya, lekin shayad Allah mere bache ke saath hai, issliye sare sachai sabke samne agayi" Hasina and Tanveer was looking at each other. Hasina said "badi bi apke pagal pote se koi shaadi nahi karega, koi ladki nahi milegi apke iss pagal pote ke liye, taumr kuwara rahega dekhlena, meri beti ka tho ek din isse bhi ache ghar main rishta jodungi, aap dekhte reh jayengi, aur haan hamari bezaati ka badla nahi liya aapse, tho mera naam Hasina nahi, are main tho yeh soch kar iss rishte ke liye tayyar huyi thi ki apke marhoom bte ne mere shouhar se Asad aur Tannu ka nikah ka vada kiya tha, magar muje ab pata chala ki vo vada nahi tha balki iss pagal ladke ko humare sar madne ka ek zariya tha, apko apka yeh pagal pota Mubarak ho,hum chalet hai Khuda Hafiz, Chalo Tannu, are aap yahan khade khade kya kar rahe hai, apni aur bezzati karvana hai kya, chaliye" And Hasina and Co left the function.

Now everybody started talking with each other that Asad's engagement broke and soon it became a grapevine about his madness too. Badi dispersed the function and went to her room. Usma and Asad hified after everybody left. Asad asked "Usma aap ne cake main angooti kaise dali". Then Usma explained how she threatened Shajahan to make him culprit before Badi bi for destroying her favourite pineapple pastry cake and tricked him to hand over the cake tray to her. Then she smartly outwitted everybody in flicking the ring and hid it in the cake and served it to Hasina. Asad couldn't believe that this pea sized brain is a miniature devil's workshop Tum bilkul shaitan ki bachi ho". And ke kissed her on her chubby cheeks. Usma said"ab jayeye aur phoppi ko manayiye". Asad smiled

Zoyas room

Asad entered Zoya s room to see her standing against the window and staring at the black sky. Asad called her "Zoya". She without turning back said "Mubarak ho Mr. Khan, apki sagaai hogayi, muje pata nahi tha ki aaj apki sagaai hai, varna main kabhi apke saath yahan nahi ati, mujme itni himmat nahi thi ki mere ankhon ke saamne aap kissi aur ko angooti pehnaye issliye vahan se chali ayi , I guess function khatm hogaya hoga right, sab chale gaye honge, aap mujse mafi mangne aye honge, ki apko yeh sagaai majboori karni padi etc. Its okay, vaise bhi aaj tak muje kuch bhi nahi mila hai zindagi main, usme ek aur shamil hogaya" Asad shouted "Bas chup karengi aap, jabse aya hoon bak bak, ek baar poori bat nahi sunti ho, meri sagaai nahi huyi," Zoya turned to look at him "kya, sagaai nahi hui, matlab?" Asad said what happned outside and how Usma played a prank. Zoya was happy but she did not show it. She just said "okay". Inside she was feeling that Badi bi was kept in dark in all these fiasco. Asad asked "aap khush nahi ho?" Zoya replied "khush hone ke liye meri sagaai thodi huyi hai apse, main jaise ayi hoon, vaise hi hoon" She turned her head to the otherside towards the window. Asad saw that Zoya was angry with him really and he pulled her by her elbow and got her closer to him. "tho aap mujse naraz hai" he was carasseing her cheeks. Zoya still angry trying to wriggle out. "lekin naraz bhi unse hote hai jinse aap pyar karti hai, right" Asad reiterated now cupping her face and making her look into his eyes. "aap ab bhi naraz hai" Zoya saw that she was letting down her guard but still said "ji haan" Asad "Zoya muje bhi pata nahi tha ki Badi bi aaj aise achanak sabke samne elan meri sagaai ka elan karengi, unhone mujse poocha thak nahi, jitna aap chounk gayi thi usse kayi zyadaa main chounk gaya tha, mera yakeen kijiye Zoya main apke alava kissi se ke saath zindagi bitane ka soch bhi nahi sakta, apne yeh man kaise liya ki main yeh sagaai karunga?" Zoya looked at him and pouted. She said "I m sorry" Asad "its okay, now please smile" Zoya smiled a lit bit. Asad "aisa nahi" he started tickling her and making her giggle. "Asad please, chodiye, aur nahi, mera saas phool raha hai, please, ruk jayena" and she was stopping his hands which where tickling and they were running all over the room with Asad tried to catch Zoya and Zoya jumping over the bed and couch and throwing pillows and cushions at each other.

Usmas room

Usma was looking at her parent's photo and caressing it with ther little fingers. He talked to them "apko pata hai abhi tak Hitler nani ne mujse baat thak nahi ki hai, vo ab abhi naraz hai apse, mujse, hum sabse, muje apki bohot yaad arahi hai, aap kyun muje chodkar chale gaye, muje bhi apni saath kyun leke nahi gaye" "Aisa nahi kehte meri bachi" Usma looked towards the door and found badi bi standing with a doll in her hand. She walked inside and took seat beside Usma. Usma turned her head to the other side "Tho aap muje pyar se Hilter nani bulati hai, muje acha laga sunka" Usma tried to smile but didn't. "yeh gudiya dekh rahi ho, yeh tumhari ammi ki hai, vo bachpan main iss gudiya se bohot khelti thi,aisa khelte khelte muje pata nahi chala ki vo kab jawan ban gayi, aur kab vo badi hogayi, ek din ek usse mujse koi legaya, hamesha ke liye, phir kabhi main usse nahi mili" Usma said "lekin ammi tho hamesha apse milna chahti thi lekin apne kabhi mouka nahi diya" Badi bi "galati hogayi beta, bohot badi galati, maine kabhi tumhari ammi aur abbu ko apne zindagi main vapis aneka mouka nahi diya, main andhi hogayi thi, apne jhooti shaan main maine tumhari ammu aur abbu ki sachi mohabaat ko nahi dekh payi" Usma wiped her tears with her little fingers "mat royiye badi nani, main apse bohot gussa thi, lekin ab nahi, chaliye maine apko maaf kardiya, ab hasiye" Badi bi pulled her into her lap and kissed her forehead. "pata hai tumhari ammi bhi aisi hi thi, mujse naraz to hoti thi, lekin mere aasoon dekh kar, muje maf kardeti thi, tum bilkul apni ammi par gayi ho, apni ammi ki bachpan ki tasveere dekhna chahogi?" Usma nodded. Badi hoisted her and placed her on her hips "tho chaliye aaj main apki ammi ki bachpan se apko vakif karvati hoon". On the way Usma revealed that Zoya was not her phoppi and how they met and how her mamu and zoya fell in love with each other but didn't tell about the prank that she played today. Badi bi was shocked at the revelation but nevertheless decided on something which she kept to herself.

Next Chapter: The test of love

Chapter Four - My Amercian Aunt

A small teaser: Zoya with heavy eyes shadows, blue contact lenses, gaudy lipstick, with golden hair wearing a long flowly outfit with a cigarette in hand sitting in a club.

At a Casino Club:

Asad was wondering why Usma has brought him to this casino. They both stood at the door. The watchmand there were checking for the dress codes and then let duo in. Usma looked around for Zoya and then spotted her sitting on the bar counter in a corner. Usma's own jaw dropped seeing her. Asad asked "kahan hai apki vo American phoppi?" Usma raised her hand and pointed at the figure sitting here. Asad "oh over there, chaliye, milvayiye apni Zoppi se" Usma held Asad's hands and took him to her. Usma squealed "Zoppi". Zoya turned and saw Usma "Hey , honey, how are you?" Asad's did not even imagine in his thoughts that Usma's phoppi will be something like this, heavy eye shadows, blue tinted eyes, eye piercing lip stick color, striking golden hair and above all a cigrattee in between her delicate fingers and that too sitting at the bar counter in a casino. By this time Usma had nudged Asad to do a handshake with Zoya. Asad unwillingly extended his hand for a handshake. But Zoya jerked his hands and hugged him instead "Hai Handsome" saying huskily. Asad pulled out of her hug and maintained a distance. He was very angry,"Usma, aise vahiyat ladki ke saath main tumhe rehne nahi desaktha, tum mere saath India vapis chal rahi ho samji, iss ladki ka nahi koi dang hai nahi koi saleekha." He dragged Usma away. Zoya and Usma was glancing each other "now what". They saw their plan didn't work.

Usmas house

Asad came furious with Usma back. The administrator was waiting for him to sign the papers officially that they have handed over the child to him properly. Asad was signing the papers by this time Zoya returned in sardar attire. Usma went and hugged her crying that she doesn't want to go to India. Asad by the time disposed off the administrator and proceeded towards Usma. Usma was clinging on to Zoya and was reluctant to leave her. Asad seeing her clinging on to sadarji told him "lagta hai, bachi ko apse bohot lagav hai, lekin aap please usse samjaye, ki vo mere saath India chale, yahan uska dekhbal karne wala koi nahi hai" Usma looked up at her for help. She faked her voice and said "saab main apko ek baat batao, vo ladki haina iski phoppi, bilkul nakchadi hai, bigdi hui hai, aur bohot hi ziddi bhi hai, thodisi pagal bhi hai, lekin baby se bohot pyar karti hai, maine khkud dekha hai jab main yahan pe kaam pe tha tho, yeh baat alag hai ki main bhi usse zyadaa pasand nahi karta, kyunki meri naukri uski vajah se hi chali gayi, vo ghar se bhaag gayi aur Anwar saab se muje naukri se bhagaya, aap agar usko patale tho baat ban sakti hai, varna vo ladki apke liye mushkil khadi kar sakti hai, aap ko itni asani se Usma baby ko lejane nahi degi, aap na apne tareeke se usse agar ek NOC lelenge tho..." Asad signaled to stop, "main samaj gaya, vaise iss salah ke liye shukriya Bhim Singh" and he hugged her tightly. Zoya was getting feelings when he hugged her. Usma was giggling. Zoya was rolling her eyes at Usma now.

Usma room

Zoya was changing into her girly attire as it was called a day now. They were going to sleep. Usma said "apko kya zaroorat thi, aisa over drama aur make up karne ki, hamara saara game ulta padgaya, Asad mamu pe koi asar hi nahi hua, maine tho socha tha vo ap par lattu honge phir vo apke saath busy rahenge aur muje lekar jana bhool jayenge, lekin unpe tho apka jadoo chala hi nahi" Zoya said "don't worry baby, pehla impression nahi jama tho kya hua, mera saradarji ka get up ne usko compensate kiya nai, ab Asad mere peeche ayenge NOC sign karva ne ke liye, lekin usse pehle , ek chota sa kaam hai, kya tumhari koi photos hai?" Usma "haan hongi, udhar cup board main" Zoya teek hai, "ab aap so jayeye, main photos dekh loongi" "Knock Knock" Zoya alarmed she was not in her sadar get up. She asked faking voice "kon hai" Asad said "main hoon Asad, kya apse thoda baat kar sakta hoon, abhi agar apko aitraaz na ho tho" Zoya flushed out hearing that, "abhi, abhi muje bohot need arahi hai, tho main sone ki tayyari kar raha hoon, kal bat kare hai, aram se, subah, ji good night ji," she pulled the covers over head and started snoring loudly so that Asad may hear it.

Next day morning

Asad was again knocking on Usma door "Bhim singh," Zoya kept her hand on her head. She opened the door now and saw Asad smiling at her. "Oh God, that smile drives me crazy" she thought. He stretched his neck to see that Usma was sleeping still. He said "thoda baat karna tha apse, kya bait kar baat karein" Zoya said "kyun nahi ayiye" Asad and Zoya sat on the couch. Zoya saw Asad fidgeting with his phone. Zoya "kahiye kya kehna hai?" Asad "vo actually baat yeh hai ki, vo jo haina usma ki phoppi" Zoya purposely "kon" Asad "vohi americawali jiski vajah se apka naukri chala gaya" Zoya "oh acha vo nakchadi ladki, hai batayiye" Asad "vo kya hai ki, aap usse pehle se hi jante hai, tho kya aap mere saath asakthe hai, usse baat karne ke liye, vo kya hai, main in mamle main thoda kacha hoon, aap samaj sakte hai, ki main kal jab usse mila tha, tho kitna uncomfortable hogaya tha, seedhe gale padthi hai vo, aur main usse doori banake rakhna chahta hoon, aap samaj rahe na meri baat" Zoya "jee jee bilkul samaj gaya," but she was hell nervous now, Asad is asking her to go with him to talk to Zoya both being played by her only. She unknowingly said "Yah Allah ab kya hoga" Asad stunned "apne abhi kya kaha Allah, apto sardar haina" Zoya realized her mistake and then quickly corrected "vo kya haina, main anwar saab ke saath bohot salon tak tha, issliye mere mooh se nikal jata hai Allah, par isme kya hai, Allah ho yah Wahe Guru sab ek ka hi to naam hai" Asad patted hardly on her thighs and said "yeh baat tho apni bilkul sahi kahi Bhim Singh" Zoya was having hard time having Asads hands on her thighs. Asad was rubbing her thighs also. "Vaise ek baat batayiye Bhim Singh, apko dekh ke ahi lagta nahi ki aap sardar ho, apke haath kitne mulayam hai, aur aap ka height bhi thoda kam hai, apke ankhen ladki ki tarah hai, aur maine apko kabhi kasrat karte hue nahi dekha, aap kiss kism ke sardar ho, yaar" Zoya quickly got up to stop the convo and Asads hands activities and told "haan main ajaunga, Zoya memsaab se baat karne ke liye, abhi muje thoda urgent kaam hai" Asad "jee bilkul lekin hum dono ka ek kasrat ka completion hojaye, mera bada man kar raha hai, main bhi kasrat ka bohot shoukeen hoon, dekhenge kon zyadaa push ups leta hai" Zoya kept her hands on her face for hiding her embrassment and said "jee main kasrat nahi karta, ab aap jayenge" Asad "koi baat nahi, main sikha doonga, apko, dole shole kaise banana hai, body shody kaise banta hai" Zoya forcibly pushed Asad now out of the room now and closed the door on him and held her breath and stood against the door. Asad "kaisa sardarji hai, sharmeela types, ajeeb hai" and he went away.

At a caf

Asad was waiting for Zoya to come but little did he know that zoya was beside him disguised as sardarji. Zoya asked "Asad saab aur kitna time lagega, ghar par baby akeli hai" Asad "bas ati hi hogi" and said in mind "muje kya pata, raaste main koi casino mila hoga, aur ghus gayi hogi" Zoya was having good time seeing Asads desperation to meet Zoya. She was falling for him unknowingly. She wantd to know more about him and this was the best chance now. She asked "teek hai jab tak vo ati hai, aap muje apne bare main kuch batayiye na, ki apke ghar main kon kon hai, apka parivaar vagera" Asad thought till zoya comes he can also pass time with Bhim Singh "mere parivar main sirf ek dadi hai jisko hum sab pyar se Badi bi kehte hai, aur phir aapi thi, aap to jante hai ki kuch din pehle, hi unki..." Zoya kept her hand on Asad for consoling him. Asad felt her hands so soft but he did not go into that. "abto usma hi bachi hai, aur jab bhi usma ko dekhta hoon, muje meri aapi ki yaad ati hai, aapi bhi bachpan main usma ki tarah thi, bilkul apni ammi par gayi hai" Asad was having tears in his eyes now. Zoya said "are mard hokar rote ho" she wiped his tears with her delicate fingers. Asad again felt something weird in her touch it was not a manly touch and care. Asad looked at her intently. He was getting vibes that he had seen these eyes somewhere and he was not getting the fact where he had seen it. He got the vibes when the sardarji first bumped into him too. Feeling confused he shook away his feelings and saw that Zoya had not yet come. Seeing that enough time has passed and it was time for Zoya to enter, saddarji told "dekhiye Asad saab abto bohot time hogaya, main thoda...(she showed her little finger raised), abhi ata hoon. Tab tak aap intezaar kijiye" As soon as sardarji went Zoya came. This time she hadn't put a gaudy lipstick nor an eye shadow. She simply had her blue contact lenses and golden hair. She was in a jeans and top. "Ys Mr. Asad Ahmed Khan, tell me, how can I help you," Asad saw that he was alone now and saradji had gone at the correct time and he was taking time too to return. He cannot go in search of him now. So he started "see miss Zoya, I guess you are Anwar jijus sister and the only relative of Usma, since I m taking Usma to India, I want that you please sign this no objection certificate, that you don't have nay qualms in me taking her to India, I suppose you got my point." Zoya knowing Asads intentions said "See Mr. khan, you may not know but I m very much attached with Usma and I cannot simply allow you to take her with you without knowing about you properly and I know that Zeenat appi had some relatives in India who never cared for her but all of a sudden now why this affection and love?" Asad retorted "I don't have to prove anything to you but you have to prove me that you are Usmas aunt becoz as far as I know my aapi never told about you in all these years, then all of a sudden, how come you became her phoppi?" Zoya knew that Asad will ask for proof so she had come prepared, she showed the photoshopped snaps of Usma and hers, one or two photos of anwar and hers and also with his appi. She asked "now are you satisfied? Now can I ask something to you? Whats is the guarantee that after you taker her to India she will be happy there, she doesn't want to go? And your grandmother never in her life cared for them , will she be able to give love and affection to this child?" Asad said "may be she is very strict outside but he knows that she has a heart which loves everybody" Zoya retorted "you can convince me but you cannot convince Usma saying this, a child needs love and affection and not hidden emotions" Zoya was tapping her fingers on the table and Asad was having his hands on his juice. Asad "okay, If I assure you that Usma will be fine with me going to India will you signt his NOC?" Zoya "if Usma says she is willing to come with you, then I shall definitely sign this" Asad was looking for sadarji now and Zoya got the point that Asad was looking for Bhim Singh. Zoya said "now I will take you leave and next time we meet make sure Usma is there with you, I will want to hear straight from her mouth that she is willing to come with you. Goodbye Mr. Khan." Zoya went and sardarji came. Asad "oye Bhim singh kahan mar gaya tha, vo akar muje sunarkar chali gayi, main kuch nahi kar paya, tumhe lekar hi kyun aya tha, sahi waqt gayab hogaya" Sadarji "ab muje zor ki lagi tho main kya karoon, vaise bhi yeh mera problem nahi apka hai, mainto sirf maddat karne ke liye aya tha, ab intezaar maine bhi kiya na, ab vo nahi ayi tho main kya karoon." Asad "Chaliye, Usma ghar par akeli hai" Zoya " vaise bhi uss ladki se main nahi mila, varna main apna appa kho deta hai, achi khasi naukri thi" While entering into the car, Zoyas right sleeve tore by getting entangled in the door. Zoya became conscious as her burn scar was exposed now. Asad immediately asked "kya hua" She tried to hide it but Asad saw it. "Bhim singh yeh kya hai, apke haath main yeh nishaan" Zoya was hiding it now from him she felt exposed in front of him. She replied "kuch nahi bachpan main ek hadsa hua tha yeh uska nishan hai" She quickly sat and closed the door to avoid more questions from Asad. Asad came around and sat in drivers seat. Zoya was looking outside to avoid Asad and Asad was staring at the hands. Her arms were not like that of a sardarji at all. It looked womanish perfectly curved and figured and the skin which surrounded the scar was milky white and shining. Asad not able to control his thoughts concentrated on the road.

Asad seeing the video of Zoyas dance

Asad was so much disturbed today after meeting especially Zoya and her reluctance to sign the NOC. He was frustrated and was throwing all the things in his room and he by mistake took theCD and was about to throw it and he stopped. He put it in his lappy and watched her peacefully. Asad was getting a peace of mind by watching her, hat she is somewhere there for him giving him peace of mind though she was not near him. He badly wanted to search her and tell her that he has fallen for her, he loves her. Zoya comes in to give Asad coffee and watches her own dance video and gets dumstruck. How did Asad get that now she wanted to know more. She sat with him, Asad was not aware that she had come, he was so lost in that video. "Koun ho tum, kahan ho tum, kyun mere sapne main aakar muje roz pareshan karti ho?" Asad was mumbling all these ignorant of Zoyas presence. Zoya now got that Asad too had fallen for her. She smiled seeing Asad watching her. She cleared her throat "ehem ehem" Asad jolted up from his seat and quickly switched off the video. Zoya asked "koun hai yeh ladki?" Asad "pata nahi, maine usse ek function main perform karte dekha tha, muje tho uska naam bhi nahi pata hai" Zoya "lekin aap uska video ko kyun dekh rahe hai?" Asad "ek ajeebsa sukun milta hai, usse dekh kar, aisa lagta ki vo yahi hai mere aaspaas, dil ko chain mitla hai, usse dekh kar" Zoya asked "kya aap usse mohabaat karte hai?" Asad shot up "jee, mohabaat?" Zoya "jee haan mohabbat, boliye, ?" Asad "shayad haan, lekin vo sirf ek sapna hai, aur haqeeqat tho yeh hai ki, main usse janta thak nahi, vo kahan rahti hai, kya karti hai, uska naam kya hai, pata nahi dubara kabhi mil paunga yah nahi" Zoya saw that Asad was not in a hope that she meets him again. Though through an unknown identity, she smiled knowing that Asad loves her. She said "fikr mat karo saab, apko apki yeh sapno ki shehzadi zaroor milegi, agar koi sache man se kissi ko chahe tho Allah zaroor sunta hai"

Next chapter: Finally, I found you

Chapter Nine: The test of love

Zoya s room

Zoya was offering her prayers when Badi Bi came to see her. Badi Bi waited for her prayers to finish so that she can talk to her regarding Asad. Badi Bi when heard that Asad loves Zoya from Usma's mouth was shocked at first, then understood situation is very tricky, she didn't want Asad to be another Zeenat. All that now she had is Asad and now Usma too. She didn't want to loose them at any cost, hence she thought to talk to Zoya and test her love for her grandson and if Zoya successfully passes the test, she decided to proceed with their relation. She wanted some sort of assurance that no matter what happens Zoya will not leave Asad. As far as Asad is concerned, Dadi thought she made a choice and forced it upon Asad which miserably failed and now why not give a try to his choice and see what it holds out. Zoya offered her prayers and saw Badi bi. She said salam to her. "Badi bi muje bula liya hota, apne takleef kyun ki" Badi bi said "isme takleef ki koi baat nahi hai, vaise bhi muje tumse kuch baat karni hai, tho mera kaam hai, tho muje hi tumhare paas ana chahiye" She said in a stern tone which made Zoya to stop her counter questions. She said meekly "kehiye na" and she waited for Badi bi to continue the talking.

Badi bi started "tum yahan India main pehli baar ho?" Zoya nodded "jee" Badi bi "Asad ke saath kaise, mera matlab ki tum usse pehle se hi janti ho" Zoya "ji nahi meri unse mulaqat New York main huyi thi" Badi bi "aur pehli mulaqat main tum Asad ke saath uske ghar tak agayi?" Zoya said "nahi nahi aap galat samaj rahi hai, vo baat aisi nahi hain, main Usma ki phoppi nahi hoon.. main apne ghar se bhaag gayi thi aur phir achanak Usma se mulaqat hogayi aur phir main Usma ke saath ghar par... phir Asad aye Usma ko lene aur phir thoda jan pehchan hogaya... actually muje pata nahi tha ki main India arahi hoon, main tho behosh thi na" She stopped and bit her lip that she blurted out that part. Badi bi arched her eyebrows. "Zoya dikhne main tho tum shareef ghar ki lagti ho, aur shareef ghar ki ladkiyaan ghar se nahi bhagti hai" Zoya again convincing "nahi vo main apni souteli maa ki vajah se bhag gayi thi, mere abbu bol nahi sakte, chal nahi sakte, aur meri souteli ammi ne mera nikah zabardasti unke bhai ke bte ke saath tay kra diya, jo ki bachpan se gunda hai, main kya karti, muje bhagna pada, aur kismet ne muje Asad se mila diya" Badi bi "tumhare abbu kya karte hai?" Zoya "vo New York shehar ke jane mane vakil the, lekin bachpan main mere saath ek hadsa hua jiske vajah se vo hamesha hamesha ke liye bistar par..." she stopped sobbing there. Badi bi "mujse sunkar bohot afzoz hua" Zoya continued lekin agar Asad nahi hote tho aaj mera uss akram ke saath nikah hogaya hota, unhone muje bachaya, lekin kuch halat ki vajah se main behosh hogayi aur phir jab maine ankhen kholi tho main Asad ke saath plane main thi." Badi bi saw that Zoya words were genuine. But still she asked "tho Asad ke saath tumhara koi rishta nahi hai, Asad ne tumpar tara kha kar tumhe bachaya, aur India lekar aya haina" Zoya couldn't bring to her mouth that she loved Asad so much instead she preferred to be silent which was noticed by Badi bi. She repeated the question "tumhara Asad ke saath kya rishta hai?" Zoya this time "dosti ka, insaniyaat ka, moh..." Badi bi smiled "teek hai, agar main kabhi tumse kuch mangoongi tho kya tum vo muje dena ka vada karogi?" Zoya "ji bilkul aap kehkar tho dekhiye, main vada karti hoon aap jo bhi mangegi main apko donngi, yeh Zoya ka vada hai" Badi bi in her mind"ladki buri nahi hai, mere Asad ko khush rakhegi, pata nahi iske ghar wale koi bakheda na khada karde" Badi bi said "teek hai main ab chalti hoon" As soon as Badi bi got up Zoya said "muje apse kuch kehna hai,"

Badi bi turned and looked at her and thought may be wanted to say the she loved Asad. Zoya said "vo jo bahar sagaai main hungama hua tha vo sab kuch Usma aur Asad ne milkar plan kiya tha, sagaai thodne ke liye, shayad apko pata nahi hoga, lekin main apse kuch chupana nahi chahti, apko janneka haq hai, aap iss ghar ki badi hai, koi angooti ki chori nahi huyi thi, vo Usma jo cake Hasina bi ko khilaya usme angooti dalkar dedi aur phir Asad ne Tanveer se jhoot bola ki unhe pagalpan ka doura padta hai, taki Tanveer khud se yeh rishta thod de" Zoya stopped. Badi bi was shocked at this revelation but nevertheless she was impressed with Zoyas true nature. For the second time in a span of half an hour this girl has really impressed her. Badi bi asked "Asad ne aisa kyun kiya, kya tumhe pata hai?" Zoya again stumped at this question but diplomatically told "shayad Asad ko tanveer pasand nahi thi" Badi bi "yah phir koi aur pasand hai, issliye?" Zoya "jee" shocked. Badi bi smiled and said "jobhi hua ache ke liye hua, usse yeh pata chal gaya ki mere Asad ke liye Tanveer teek ladki nahi thi, kya agar Asad nikah ke baad pagal hojata to vo tho usse chodkar chali gayi hoti, muje mere Asad ke liye ek aise dulhan chahiye jo zindagi bhar uska haath thame, chahe gam ho yah phir khushi ho, aur mera Asad tho usse hamesha khush rakhega, itna vada tho main kad sakti hoon" She exited saying "ab main chalti hoon"

Asad's room

Asad was going to get Usma's admitted in one of the best schools in Bhopal. He has already talked with Badi bi regarding the same and taken her permission. He was getting ready that Usma came to him and perched upon his dressing table. "Mamu, ek baat batayiye, apne Badi nani se baat ki, phoppi ke bare main" Asad combing his hair said "nahi abhi tak tho nahi, lekin jald hi karunga bas sahi waqt ka intezar kar raha hoon" Usma "mamu aaj school main mera pehla din hai?" Asad "ji nahi aaj hum sirf admissions ke liye jaa rahe hain, interview ache se dena Okay" Usma "hmm vo tho mera bhaiya haath ka khel hai" Asad "main janta hoon, tumhara dimag kitna tez hai" Usma "koi shaque" Asad "ji bilkul nahi" He carried her in her arms after kissing her.

Asad was called by Zoya "vo Usma ne kaha ki aaj uska school main interview hai, issliye yeh dahi shakkar khane se sab kuch acha hota hai" She fed Usma a spoonful of sweet curd and wished her all the best kissing her cheeks. She was about to go Asad opened his mouth too "tabto muje bhi chahiye, main bhi to school jaa raha hoon" Zoya said "lekin test to Usma ka haina, apka thodi hai" Asad "phir bhi muje bhi chahiye, jaldi kijiye late horaha hai" Zoya fed him too with a spoonful and Asad took his own sweet time to take it in his mouth not breaking the eye contact with Zoya and then he took the spoon from her and dipped in the curd and fed her too. Finally Usma said "chaliye mamu der hogayi, aap na phoppi se baad main romance kar lijiye ga, varna aaj mera pehla impression hi kharab hojayega der se pohunch ne se" Asad gave a what look at Usma and Zoya giggled. All this was witnessed by another pair of old eyes. She was happy that Asad found his girl and now the urge to test their love was more, this time she didn't want anything wrong to happen like the last time.

New York

Akram "Mumani kuch pata chala zoya ke bare main" Akram "yehi batane ke liye tho maine tumhe bulaya hai" Ladki ka pata lag gaya, vo Hindustan main hai" Akram "India main, vo India kaise pohunchi" Razia "vo sab chodo, mudda yeh hai, ki ladki hindustan main hain, aur Bhopal sheher main hai, mere admiyon ne khabr diya hai ki, yahan embassy se uska visa sanction hua tha kissi Asad Ahmed Khan ki mangetaar ken ate, muje darr hai kahin Zoya ne uss Asad se nikah na kar liya ho, tab to hamara sara phasa ulta hi pad jayega, jaldi hi kuch karna hoga, hum sabka India jane ki tayyari karo, aur haan uss budde ka bhi ticket katana, akhir ladki ko qaboo main karne ke liye kaam ayega"

At about evening

Zoya was roaming about the house and the telephone rang. She picked up the phone still humming but soon dropped the phone hearing it. She shouted for Badi bi and went running to tell her. She panting and sweating reached Badi bis room. Badi bi was keeping her clothes in her cop board. Zoya shouted "jaldi chaliye Badi bi, Asad aur Usma ka accident hogaya, kissine Lifeline Hospital se phone kiya tha" Badi bi dropped the clothes and proceeded with Zoya and soon reach the hospital, they see that Usma was fine and just having some bruises but where was Asad. Zoya sat with Usma while Badi bi went to speak to the doctor. Doctor informed that Asad's car's brakes failed and crashed against a tree, since Usma was sitting in the passenger seat, she was thrown off but Asad sustained serious injuries particularly to his eyes. His eyes needed to be bandaged for around 15 days or so and then they will remove to see whether he is capable of seeing. Doctor said that there is 5% of losing eyesight and that they can't tell anything about it now. Badi bi went to see Asad as he was in ICU.She looled through the glass window on the door and cried. Then she suddenly got reminded of Zoya. She went to her and gave her permission to meet Asad. She too came and stood at the door and cried for him staring him through the small round window in the door. She kept her hand on the glass like that she was touching Asads face. She saw him with tubes running from all over his body to various machines, some beeping, some silent, some showing some numbers and at last Zoya saw Asads expressive eyes were behind a white bandage. She didn't know what to do but wanted to open the door, go inside and hold him in her arms. Soon she saw a nurse coming to Asads room. She asked whether she can just see Asad for 5 mins by going inside. She promised that she won't disturb him. Nurse seeing her tears agreed and let her in. Zoya went and sat on the stool provided and kept her hand on Asads face. She then held his hands in hers and made him feel her hearbeats and kept it back. She bent down and kissed his forehead and after staring at him for sometime when nurse came in and prompted her to go out she complied with teary eyes.

Zoya went to Badi Bi and asked "Badi bi unhe hosh kab ayega, doctor ne kya kaha?" Badi bi didn't have the courage to tell her that Asad may lose his eye sight yet she told Zoya that doctor had predicted that Asad may lose his eyesight when the bandage is opened. "badi bi, kya Asad kabhi dekh nahi payenge" Badi bi "doctor na aisa hi kuch kaha hai" Zoya just slumped against the wall for support hearing this. She was so shocked that nothing came out of mouth at that time. Badi bi saw the pain in zoyas eyes, even though it was Asad who met with accident, it was Zoya who was more suffering than him right now.

After a week time

After a week Asad was discharged from hospital and was taken home. Badi bi entrusted zoya with all the responsibilities of Asad till his bandage si removed. Zoya used to do all things for Asad now like a nurse, right from giving him bath to feeding him with medicines and food. It had become a routine for her now. But above all, she never missed her prayers, she always did that in right time and she asked nothing but for Asads good and speedy recovery. Badi bi saw that Zoya was indeed perfect for Asad and now she was proud of his choice. She thought to ask Zoya about her engagement with Asad now, but will she agree to that Asad being in risk of losing his eyesight.

Zoya offered her prayers and was now helping Usma with her studies, Badi bi came to her. She asked about asad and she said he was sleeping. Badi bi diplomatically asked "kya main tumse kuch maang sakti hoon, yaad hai tumne mujse vadaa kiya tha" Zoya without any hestitiation said "jee kahiye na kya kar sakti hoon main apke liye" Badi bi "mere Asad se sagaai karogi?" Zoya was swept off her feet hearing this. Badi bi "yah main yeh samjoon ki Asad jo ab andha ho chukka hai tho.." She was stopped by Zoya "khuda ke liye Badi bi aisa mat kahiye, main tho din raat yehi dua karti hoon ki unki aakhon roshini salamat rahe" Badi bi smiled a little. "tho main yeh samjoon ki tumhe yeh rishta manzoor hai" Zoya lowered her gaze in approval. Badi bi "lekin main tumpe koi zor nahi dena chahti chahe tho tum 24 gante ke baad soch samaj kar jawab dena teek hai"

She was going to go "Rukiye, maine soch liya hai, main yeh sagaai karungi, agar apko vada nahi bhi diya hota, tho bhi main yeh sagaai zaroor karti, kyunki main Asad se bohot mohabaat karti hoon, kya hua agar vo dekh nahi paye tho, main unki ankhen banoogi, aur medical science bhi bohot taraaki kar chukka hai, hum unhe ache ache doctor ko dikhayenge, chahe tho main unhe New York leke jaungi, zameen asmaan ek kardungi, lekin har vo mumkin koshish karungi jisse unke ankhon ki roshini unhe vapis mil jaye." Badi bi saw that she truly loved her son. "tho tum Asad se mohabbat karti ho?' Zoya now realized that she blurted out everything in desperation. "ji vo main...main...vo" she was cut off by badi bi "chalo kissine tho apni mohabbat ka ikrar kiya" Zoya blushed and lowered her gaze. Badi bi "ab muje tumhare ghar walo se milna hoga baat age badane ke liye" Zoya immeditaly said "nahi,, aap unse kuch nahi kehengi, maine kaha na mera iss duniya main mere abbu ke alawa aur koi nahi hai, aur abbu iss halat main nahi hai ki vo apse baat kare, main apse vinti karti hoon badi bi, aap unse koi baat mat kijiye, varna... vo muje Asad se alag kardengi" Badi bi saw that Zoya was frightened now and she said "teek hai main unhe kuch nahi bataungi, lekin tumhare gharwalo ke bagair, yeh sagaai kuch teek nahi lag rahi" Zoya said "ek baar sab kuch hojayega, phir main abbu ko samja doongi, vaise vo mujse bohot pyar karte hain, aur mere aankhon main aasoon nahi dekh sakte" Badi bi teek hai jaise tumhari marzi" "Lekin meri ek shart hai, tumhe Asad se kuch ghanto ke liye door rahna padega, koi sawal mat karo, bas yeh mera hukum hai" Zoya though was worried for Asad agreed to it respecting Badi bi'sdecision.

Badi di arranged for a nurse to take care of Asad for the time being. She was giving her some instructions and making her understand something in animated languages. Asad as usual was expecting zoya when the door opened "agayi aap, fursat mil gaya apko mere paas aneke kiye, main kabse apka intezaar kar raha tha, muje apse der sari baat karna hai, idhar ayiye, yahan mere paas."nurse didn't tell him anything but was silent. "zoya vahan kya kar rahi hai aap, muje apki zaroorat hai yahan ayiyie na please" Asad requested again but seeing no response from her he got up from the bed and searched in the air walking with his both hands extended. Nurse saw this "are apko aram ki zaroorat hai, chailye idhar ayiye" Asad asked "Zoya apki awaz ko kya hua" nurse replied "vo muje zukham hogaya hai" Asad "oh, apne dawayi liya?" Nurse "jee, liya" Asad "zoya idhar aao na please, mere paas baito, muje apse kuch kehna hai" now nurse was felling very uncomfortable in Asad's proximity, Asad is assuming that she is Zoya and speaking to her in a lover dovey manner. She looked onto Badi bi and she signaled her to continue. Nurse replied "abhi ati hoon, vo main bas apke garam pani ka intezaam kar rahi hoon." Asad "teek hai" Nurse breathed a sigh of relief. After sometime nurse came upto him and helped him to get up. Asad at one touch of the nurse recognized that something was wrong. He asked her "Zoya apke haath itne badle badle kyun hai, aisa lagta hai ki aak kal aap bohot sara kaam karti hai, yahan bohot naukar hai zoya, aapko sab kuch karne ki zaroorat nahi hai." Nurse looked onto Badi bi and said "hmm". "aap muje kaha leja rahi hai" nurse "vo apko sponge baath dene ke liye" she made him walk supporting him on her shoulders. Asad felt something weird like the nurse was not perfectly fitting into him. Usually when Zoya used to take him, she perfectly came within his arms. Asad again asked "kya aaj sponge bath zaroori hai, aaj rehne dete hai" and he tugged her back and showed that his reluctancy to take bath. Nurse said "tho teek hai, main apko yahi bed main sponge karti hoon" and she led him back to bed and made him to sit. Asad was feeling weird vibes that the lady assisting him was not his Zoya. Nurse tugged his shirt and slowly started to remove it. She was a little close to him and he could sense her scent. When he saw that nurse was unbuttoning him he immediately jerked away her hand and said "aap meri Zoya nahi hai, koun hai aap? Aur yahan kya kar rahi hai vo bhi mere kamre iss tarah se" Nurse looked at Badi bi and she signalled her to go outside and she herself came inside and called him "Asad" Badi Bi "aap, acha hua aap agayi, vo yahan koi ladki thi, jo meri maddat kar rahi thi, maine usse zoya samajta tha, koun thi vo?" Badi bi "are vo votho nurse thi, hospital se ayi thi tumhari check up karne ke liye" Asad "lekin usne check tho nahi kiya" Badi bi "haan usse hospital se call agaya tha, issliye vo nikal gayi" Badi bi "lekin tumne pehchan liya ki vo Zoya nahi hai, kaise" Asad "kyunki main unke rag rag se wakif hoon, mohobbat jo karta hoon unse" Badi bi got what she wanted from his mouth. Asad realized that badi bi tricked him into confessing his love for Zoya. "vo Badi bi main apko sahi waqt par batane wala tha" Badi bi "lekin maine tumhari sagaai pakki kar di hai" Asad "phir se, mujse bina pooche Badi bi" Badi bi "poochoge nahi ladki koun hai" Asad looked away in despair "meri marzi kabhi chalti hai, aap hamesha apna hukum suna ne ke liye tayyar rahti, agar apne barson pehle aapi ko ek baar mouka diya hota vapis aneke liye tho aaj vo hamare beech hoti, aur shayad zinda bhi hoti, lekin aap kabhi nahi samjenge, mohabbat ke mayne kya hote hain, apko sirf apni jhoote shaan aur shoukat se mohabbat hai, jo koi kaam ki nahi hai, main Zoya se mohabaat karta hoon aur main unse hi nikah karunga, aap chahe yah na chahe"

Badi Bi exited the room unable to take Asads accusations, she sat in her study, remisinsing her past. "muje mohabbat ke mayne pata nahi hai" she remembered Asads words. "ab main kya kahoon, mohabbat se muje sirf dhoka mila hai aur kuch nahi, lekin phir bhi main apne sare ahem ko alag rakh kar, tumhari pasand ko apnaya hai Asad, kash tum meri poori bat sunte, tumne sach kahan barso pehle maine agar Zeenat ko ek mouka diya hota tho aaj Usma ke sar par uske abbu ka haath hota, uski ammi ki anchal hoti, maine bohot galat kiya hai, lekin abhi aur nahi. Kal tum ek Naya Ayesha Ahmed Khan ko dekhoge Asad. Kal ka savera hum sab ke liye bohot khush nazeeb hoga, aur kal tumhari patti bhi khul rahi hai. Mujse zyadaa iss pal ka intezaar Zoya ko hai aur muje yakeen hai patti khul ke baad pehle tum apni Zoya ko dekhna chahoge"

Next Chapter: I will never leave your side and I will always hold on to you forever

Chapter Eleven: The Bhopali Tour of Asya

The Next Day after engagement

Asad had forgotten about the gift which he had brought for Zoya which he remembered in the morning. He knocked at Zoya's door as early in the morning. Zoya was still sleeping. After a couple of knocking when there was no response. Asad slightly pushed the door and it was open. He barged inside her room and found her sleeping peacefully with her one hand on her flat belly and the other on the pillow beside her head. Her hands were beautiful indeed, one thing that Asad got attracted at the first instance itself. He slowly caressed her hands adorned with the red mehndi which was really enhancing her colour. "apke haath bohot khoobsurat hai Zoya". He lifted it and kissed them on the back of the palm. Zoya stirred in the sleep and slowly opened her eyes. She saw his face and smiled. "Asad aap yahan, vo bhi subah subah, kya baat hai?" Asad "vo muje apko kuch dena tha, kal maine issliye apko kamre main bulaya tha, lekin kal jo hua usme main yeh bilkul bhool gaya" Zoya "acha kya hai dikhaye" Asad "apne pair dikhaye" Zoya was confused "pair kyun" Asad "aap dikhayengi yah nahi?" Zoya said "teek hai and she pulled her salwar up and showed him her feet. Asad kept the feet on his thighs. He took out a pair of anklets and made her wear it. Zoya "mashallah yeh tho bohot pretty hai Asad" Asad "lekin muje tho yeh abhi pretty laga, kyunki yeh abhi apke paun main jo hai." Zoya "vo tho hai, main hoon hi aisi" Asad smiled at her and asked her show her dimples and she obliged. Asad "aur mere return gift" Zoya "Allah miyaan whats wrong with you Asad, aap return gift ki asha main muje yeh pehnaya, very bad" Asad "vo tho maine aise hi poocha tha, lekin apka mood nahi yah tho maine phir kabhi pooch loonga" and he started to get up only to be stopped by Zoya. "Rukiye, kisne kaha mera mood nahi hai" and she showed mischief in her eyes and she leaned and battled her long eyelashes against his cheeks. And then pulled away. Asad "yeh kya tha?" Zoya "this is called butterfly kiss" saying this she ran outside from the room before Asad caught her and then bumped into Badi bi.

At New York Zoyas house

"Are Akram hamara Hindustan jane ka kya intezaam hua kya? "vo mumani, ek buri khabar hai, hame India ke liye visa nahi mila" Akram lowered his head. "Kya ? visa nahi mila" Akram "vo Indian visas par rok lagaye hai kuch din thak, yahan kuch terrorist attack ki khabar mili hai, issliye bohot hi saqt pehra hai, sanctions sab filal band kar diya hai, khaaskar ki Hindustan visas par" Razia "meri tho kismet hi phooti hai, pata nahi muje yeh sari doulat par raaj karne ko milega, issliye mujse bhi dugne umar ki uss Gaffur miyaan se nikah kiya aur unke mooh boli beti ko bhi apnaya, aur ab unki khatir dari karne ke alawa mera naseeb main aur kuch likha hi nahi hai, panchi tho ud gayi, ab haath ane se raha" Akram "lekin mumani ek tareeka hai" Razia "kya hai bolo" Akram "kya hua agar hum hindustan nahi jaa sake tho, zoya tho yahan asakti hai, vaise vo tho american citizen hai, issliye usko visa ki koi problem nahi hogi" Razia "vo kaise, aur vo kyun ayegi vapis, apni zindagi barbaad karne ke liye" Akram "agar iss budde khoosat ko kuch hojaye tho zoya yahan vapis zaroor ayegi unse milne, aur phir hamara kaam asaan hojayega" Razia "baat tho tumne sahi kahi, lekin vo hamari baat par yakeen kaise karengi" Akram "iska bhi maine haal doond liya hai, vo moin chacha haina, vohi Allahabad vale, unke kuch jaan pehchan vale Bhopal main rehte hain, unse Zoya ka pata lagava kar uss tak yeh khabar pohuncha ne ke liye kehdunga" Razia "kya yeh kaam karega" Akram "abto hum sirf umeed kar sakte hai ki, yeh tareeka kissi bhi tarah se kaam kar jaye, aur yahan rahke hum kar bhi kya sakte hai" Razia "haan bhai, ab hamare bhi kya din agaye hai, ek din vo the, jab meri ungli ki ishara par iss ghar ka sab kuch chalta tha, abto kissi aur ki mohtaj banjayenge" Akram "aisa har kis nahi hoga mumaani, main iss baar zoya se seedha nikaah karunga, tab vo kya karegi, phir tho mera saath hamesha ke liye rehna padega" Razia "zyadaa hawa mat udo, pehle uss zoya ko yahan vapis ane tho do, phir sochte hai kya karna hai"

Bhopal, Khan Mansion

Zoya froze on bumping into Badi bi with Asad stopping behind her right at the moment. Badi Bi "yeh kya hai subah subah, tum dono bhagne ke practice kar rahe ho kya, main bhi ajati hoon, bohot din se na main walking nahi gayi" Zoya was looking here and there and Asad was embarrassed "Ji vo Badi bi, haan hum vo jogging ke liye nikal rahe the, maine Zoya se kaha tha ki in kapdo man jogging nahi hosakta, lekin yeh mane tab na" Zoya was looking at asad liked "what" "yeh chali muje demo dikhane ki vo in kurti aur pyjama main bhi jogging kar sakte hi" Badi bi "tho kya main walking salwar aur kameez main hi karti hoon, isme kya kharabhi hai, chalo Zoya tum mere saath chalo, koi kuch nahi kahega" She was dragging Zoya along with her and Zoya was looking back at Asad and Asad was running hands through his hair. When they reached the entrance "Badi bi" Asad shouted " Ab kya hai, kya tum bhi aa rahe ho" Asad "vo actually main aaj Zoya ko Bhopal dikhane ke liye soch raha tha, Zoya ne kabhi aisa gaon, mela, yeh sab nahi dekha hai, vo tho NY main badi badi imaraten aur bad gadiyan hi dekhi hongi na, Zoya ne kaha tha ki she loves villages and country side, tho main socha ki chalo aaj Zoya ko Bhopal dikha doon" He stopped waiting for Badi bi's reaction. Zoya was all the time looking at him open mouthed, how he framed a story to get her out of this. "Zoya kya tumhe aisa kaha tha, ki tumhe gaon ki nazarein ache lagte hai" Asad was signaling her with his eyes and Zoya was fumbling "vo main .. main haan bohot din pehle kaha tha jab hum dono NY main the, tab, yeh Asad bhi na sari batein yaad rakhte hai, bohot sharp memory haina inki" Badi bi "chalo teek hai, main soch rahi thi, ki maine bhi Bhopal ghoom kar ek arza hogaya, tho main bhi kyun na saath chaloon" Asad coughed and Zoya kept her hand on her face. Badi bi "kyun kya hua Asad, achanak se tumhe khasi agayi" Asa "kuch nahi Badi Bi kuch din se thodi si khasi hai, tho kabhi kabhi... khasi ajatai hai.. aise hi" Badi bi "Zoya chalo, aaj ke liye walking cancel, hum tayyar hote hai, Bhopal jo ghoomna hai, aaj main bohot khush ek arze ke baad main bahar jaa rahi hoon" Zoya "lekin Usma" Badi bi "haan haan usko bhi saath lekar chalengi, aaj bohot mazaa ayega" Asad rubbed his temple with his fingers and Zoya was like "I cant help it"

The Bhopal tour

First of all they all took a cycle rickshaw instead of car since Usma wanted to have a ride in it since she never saw such types of vehicles in New York. So here they go. They saw some historical places and posed for pictures too. Asad and Zoya were always surrounded either by Usma or by Badi bi, and they didn't get a private moment at all. Exhausted due to the immense heat they all sat in the shade of a tree and besides there was some kulfiwala. Badi bi asked "Usma kya tum kulfi khaogi?" Usma nodded. She brought her one. She was fanning herself with her dupatta. Zoya was sitting a little bit away drinking a bottle of water. And Asad had gone to bring aam ka panna for Badi bi. When Asad returned he didn't find Zoya. He asked Badi bi and she said she had gone over to that side showing the direction. Asad went towards the shops there. There all pretty bangles hanging everywhere. Asad eyes was searching for Zoya and he found her in a shop arguing with the vendor over something. "Are bhaiyaa, aap aise kaise keh sakte hai, muje yeh joda bohot acha laga, aur muje yehi chahiye" Behenji yeh kissi aur ne khareed liya hai, vo memsaab ne yahan mere paas bhool se chod gay hai, vo vapis ayengi tho muje dena padega, meri dhande ka izaat ka sawaal, samajne ki koshish kijiye, aise mere paas sirf ek hi joda tha, aap chahe tho doosre dukan main kyun nahi dekti" Zoya stomped her foot in irritation. By the time Asad came "kya hua Zoya itna naraaz kyun ho?" Zoya "kuch nahi" she went from there and Asad talked with the shopkeeper for a moment and then followed her. "zoya meri baat tho suno, please ruk jao" She was not at all hearing that Asad was calling her. She barged into a shop and was checking the items there. She searched for the particular model and alas she dint find anything. "Iske bare main kya khayal hai?" He showed the bangle set which she had selected in the other shop. "Asad yeh tho vohi joda hai jo maine pasand kiya tha, lekin phir apke paas kaise?" Asad "meri hone wali Begum sahiba kuch pasand kare, aur vo usse na mile sawal hi paida nahi hota hai" He said "apna haath aage badayiye" She raised her hands and he lovingly slided the bangles into her thin hands and said "perfect". She raised her hands and tingled the bangles in front of him. He smiled and said "Chalein"

Badi bi "itni der kahan lagai tum dono ne" Chalo chalte hai, kahin ache se restaurant chalte hai aur khana khate hain" After having lunch they proceeded towards the lakeside.Badi bi was exhausted and Usma too tired dozed off in Badi Bi's lap. So she sat on the bench beside the lake and asked Asad and Zoya to go for boating. Finally they got to spend some time together. Zoya viewed at the boats and said this one. Asad "are you sure?" Zoya "pretty sure" Asad "par Zoya muje yeh chalana nahi ata hain" Zoya "but I know na, tho aaj main isse chalaungi aur aap piche baitenge" Asad "no its risky" Zoya "Lagta hai aapko aaj Zoya ki asli pehchan se vakif karvana padega" And with that she raised the accelerator and it sped. Asad was at first shocked at the speed Zoya was driving and caught her tightly not to fall in the lake even though they were wearing floating suits. Zoya was going in rounds and then she made it jump on the water surface. Asad had almost his heart out on his hands seeing Zoya's talent of riding a water scooter. Zoya shouted "mazaa araha hai" Asad "mazaa kahan aa raha sirf dar lag raha hai" Zoya "Asad aap na kuje khaske pakad diye, like this and she put his hands around her petite waist. Asad now loved this ride. He pulled close to Zoya and hugged her from the back tightly. He was looking at her only while Zoya was unaware of this enjoying the ride, her hairs were flying along with the wind and Asad tied them at her back with his hanky as it disturbed his staring session and now he was able to get a clear view of her. And then boom ride slowed down and stopped. "Kya hua zoya rok kyun diya?" Zoya "Asad, time over" Asad oh pata nahi chala" Zoya haan apto muje dekhne main masroof the, tho pata kaise chalta" she winked at him.

Zoya saw coconut water and said "narial ka pani chaliye na please" Asad obliged. "bhaiyaa do nariyal pani dona." NP wala "sorry memsaab yeh ek hi bacha hai" Asad "koi baat nahi hum ek se manage kar lenge" and now he winked at her. They both drank coconut water from that one coconut in the meantime ending in a good 5 minute eyelock session. They were busy in eyelock that they didn't know that the coconut water has finshed. "saab paise" Then only they broke the eyelock. "chaliye bohot der hogaya, Badi bi intezaaar kar rahi hogi" Badi bi was still caressing a sleeping Usma. Asad "isse utao, behcari ko yahan ka dhoop tez laga hoga," Asad picked a sleeping Usma up in his arms and laid her on his shoulders. Zoya was giving Badi bi her hand as support. Badi bi "vohi mera purana ghutno ka dard, kya karoon, budhapa agaya hai, bas main itni dua karti hoon, ki muje kisseke rehem par mat chodna, Allah muje aise hi utale." Zoya "badi bi aap aise baat kyun kar rahi, apko tho abhi bohot saal jeena hai, hamare bachon ko kahani sunayega, koun unke saath waqt bitayega, ek aap hi tho hai" Badi Bi "haan par poti ka mooh tho dekh liya, ab tum jaldi hi par pote ka mooh bhi dikhado" Zoya blushed. Asad was walking slightly ahead so didn't hear this conversation. Badi bi "nikah ki tareeq dekh kar pakki kar deti hoon,ab mujse bhi raha nahi jata hai, jaldi hi tumne apni ghar ki bahu bana loon, aur phir main aram karungi" Zoya smiled shyly.

Their last venue was a pani poori stall. Badi bi proudly said "maina apne zamane main aise hi 25-30 pani poori khajati thi" Asad "aur ghar par jakar, pet pakad kar bait thi thi" Usma "haw yeh pani poori kya hota hai?" Zoya "vo poori haina poori, gol gol vali, use phodkar unke andhar pani bharkar khate hain" Usma "tabto main zaroor try karungi" Asad "Usma but this is very spicy, you will not be able to eat it, and in a week you are going to you new school also" Usma now started whining. Zoya "Asad aap bhi na school jane main ek hafta aur hai, ayse rula kyun rahe ho bechari ko" "Zoya tumhe vo bechari lagti hai, muje to shaitan ki nani lagti hai" Badi bi "Are Asad bachi hai, khila do na, aise baar baar kahan ane wale hai, tum dono yahan ruko main abhi ati hoon, zara haath mooh dokar ati hoon, garmi behaal hogaya hai." Usma was now given a plate of pani poori which she was relishing. Even Zoya had ordered one which she and Asad shared. Suddenly Usma choked herself due to the spicy pani and she started coughing. Asad and Zoya catered to her. Zoya immediately gave her a glass of water and Asad was patting her back. "Kaha than a maine yeh spicy hai, phir bhi apne zid ki, dekh liya natija?" Usma "koi baat nahi mamu, vo kya haina pehli baar hai, agli baar se nahi hoga" Asad "agli baar ki socho mat, main nahi khilane vala tumko" Usma pouted. Asad "acha teek hai, ab naraz mat hona, please, aur yeh baki ka khayengi ki hum khale" Usma "mere liye bas muje aur nahi khana, aap khalijiye". Badi bi came back and she too had some refreshments and they all decided to go back home. This time they opted for horse cart and they came home back.

Badi bi went ahead to press the doorbell while Asad Zoya and Usma trailed behind. Usma said "ab aap dono muje ek acha sa kissi dijiye chaliye" Asad and Zoya both looked at her. "Come on I m waiting" Asad kneeled down as well as Zoya on the other side of Usma. They both brought their lips to kiss Usma. Badi bi called "Usma beta kahan hai aap, chaliye" "Abhi ayi Badi Nani" she ran away at the niche of the time that Asad and Zoya ended up locking their lips which soon turned into a passionate one. Usma winked and closed the main entrance door.

Next Chapter: The Trap is set

PS :I know this is a kind of filler update but still managed to give some asya moments becoz i needed to buy time for the climax now

Chapter Fourteen: Face to Face with my past

Usma House at New York

Both Gaffur and Ayesha meet each other after decades. Emotions overflowed. Ayesha saw a betrayer in him and Gaffur saw the lady who was once his beloved in her. Since Gaffur was not able to speak properly, Ayesha too didn't stay in his room for long. She left the room after a silent exchange of emotions. Ayesha who was once sweet heart of Gaffur was now Badi bi of Bhopal, there was a big change in her status and she cannot let down the prestige of her family by getting carried away in her past, a past which she had left years ago and never looked back. Hatred, despair, pain, anguish, anger everything came back to her by seeing Gaffur. She was reminded of the past, she sat on the rocking chair rocking to and fro recollecting what happened years ago.

Embassy New York

Asad was enquiring with the embassy authorities about the arrival of Zoya Farookhi. He was informed that Zoya had not yet reached New York. On further enquiry, he was informed that if they would get any details of her they will definitely inform him at the earliest.

New York Airport

Asad enquired at New York airport about Zoyas flight details. The airport was already crowded with the kith and kins of the passengers who had still not reached New York. Asad swam across the crowd to reach the counter. The airport authorities informed that the particular flight had made an emergency landing at Heathrow Airport London due a technical failure and all the passengers were shifted to an airport hotel and still are in London only and arrangements are being made to transport them to NYC asap. Asad once again tried Zoyas number, it was not reachable.

Heathrow Airport London

Zoya was irritated and worried at the same time, irritated at the sudden turn of the events and worried for her father, if something happens to him before she reaches him. She couldn't imagine that. Frustrated Zoya encountered the authorities. She was yelling and shouting that its more than 24 hours and they were not able to arrange a flight for her. Her father is ill and she needs to see him as early as possible. Seeing her desperation one of the official with much difficulty arranged a seat for her in the earliest possible flight to NYC. Meanwhile she called to her NYC house from a PCO in airport and nobody picked up and this left her more worried. She tried calling Bhopal too but there too nobody picked up. She dialled Asad's number but call was not getting connected and she could hear the engaged tone. In the meantime the official told that her flight is ready to take off and she had to leave immediately. She left to board the flight. She cursed the time when her phone fell into a artificial fountain in the pandemonium due to the crowds pushing and steering, when she took it out to call Asad to inform him that her flight has been landed at Heathrow Airport due to technical failure. Ultimately phone got short circuited and its mother board blew off and now its useless. After she got stranded for over 36 hours, she was finally in a NYC flight. She was praying nothing should have happened to her father and he should be hale and hearty.

Back at New York, Usma House

Flashback of Badi bi and Gaffur starts simultaneously both recollect their past

Ayesha, was the daughter of a well known barrister in Bhopal and Gaffur was a ghazal singer in the All India Radio. Ayesha was fond of ghazals and became Gaffur's fan and she one day landed at AIR to meet him when she got a chance to meet the Ghazal singer. Ayesha met Gaffur and they instantly started liking each other and started spending time with each other. Gazal singers of that time were paid were meagerly. Ayesha's father happened to know about the affair of Gaffur and Ayesha. He immediately decided Ayesha's marriage. Ayesha was taken aback at the sudden decision of her father, she said she was not interested in this marriage. Gaffur was warned not to meet Ayesha by her father lest he will loose his job at AIR. Ayesha's father was a very influential person of his times. Ayesha tried to commit suicide and then Ayesha's father changed his way of dealing with her and Gaffur. Ayesha was coaxed into agreeing for engagement by her father by telling that Gaffur had cheated her and he took money from him and accepted his offer of a job abroad and in return promised not to enter her life again. He brain washed Ayesha that she should live to prove Gaffur that she is not affected by his betrayal. He told that Gaffur will come to meet her once before he goes to abroad. She can clarify with him if she doesn't trust him. Simultaneously, Gaffur was brain washed by Ayesha's father saying that he was willing to accept him as his son in law provided he proves himself to be worthy of Ayesha and will go abroad for which he will make arrangements and return after a year to claim Ayesha. If then he sees that he is no more a gazal singer who sings for some pennies but a worthy person who can give his daughter all luxuries of a life time, he will gladly give Ayesha' hand in marriage to Gaffur. Gaffur was a gullible and vulnerable person and hence agreed to it trusting Ayesha's father and fell for the trap. Gaffur came to meet Ayesha on the day of her engagement. Seeing her getting engaged with somebody else Gaffur couldn't take it and left the venue without uttering a word thinking that Ayesha was just having a infatuation on him due to his singing ability and nothing more and when it came to practicality she chose a rich person as her life partner rather than him who just gets some cents for singing for 5 mins in AIR. Unable to take the heartbreak, Gaffur boarded the ship leaving India and also his past here.

Gaffur came to NYC as an assistant to a renowned barrister here. Soon Gaffur involved himself in the work to forget Ayesha, impressed by his work, barrister asked him to learn law and he did. Soon he passed his law exams and absorbed into the barrister's firm as his colleague. Gaffur was very much indebted to him for the person he was now. Soon years passed away. Gaffur had become one of the successful lawyers in NYC. One day barrister called him to his chamber and gave his will. Gaffur was swept away seeing the will, he was made the trustee of all the barrister's property till his grand daughter Zoya attained the age of majority. Zoya's was living with her parents in LA and she was barrister;s favourite. She was the only child of their parents who got her after 10 long years of their marriage. Unfortunately, Zoya's mother succumbed to cancer when she was very small and after her mothers death her father took to heavy drinking, soon he too died of chronic liver disease. Zoya was orphaned at the tender age of 2 and all the property which she had was gambled and lost by her drunkard father. Barrister hence brought Zoya to his house and made her the heir of all his property to secure her future and made his right hand Gaffur whom he trusted blindly as the sole trustee and guardian of Zoya and her property. Barrister too died after some months due to old age. Zoya was like a gush of fresh air to Gaffur. Gaffur for the first time took her in his hands and she called "booo" which sounded "abbu" and he without any further thinking decided that he is going to give this innocent child all his love and care and bring her up as his own daughter. From then Zoya was his daughter and he never told her that he was not her father. Zoya loved her father so much but she always felt the need for a mother. And that time he appointed a governess for Zoya, Razia to take care of her when he away with his cases and appearances. Soon Razia eyed the property and one day she suggested to Gaffur that she will essay the role of a mother to the little Zoya and persuaded him to marry her. Gaffur cleared that Razia will be a mother to Zoya and only for that reason Gaffur will marry her and she should not expect husbandly duties from him as he is least interested in them. All that he wants is a motherly care for Zoya. Razia also didn't want anything either except the property as Gaffur was double her age. Soon her true colours came into open with the passage of time and from then Gaffur never had peace of mind. And one day he became paralysed seeing the atrocities met to Zoya by Razia.

Zoya's arrival

Finally the plane's wheel touched the NYC airstrip and Zoya was all the time closing her eyes and praying only to keep her father safe. She after taking her luggage etc came running out of the airport and took a cab and went straight to her house. To her dismay, she found her house locked. She trolled around the house to peep in if somebody was there as she never trusted her mother Razia when it came to her father, she might have locked him up also. But all the windows were closed including the back door. Zoya found a watchman there who was new to her. Watchman told he was new here and was appointed just a couple of days ago. He informed that the inmates of the house left taking all their baggages and belongings. Zoya asked about her father. Watchman informed that he doesn't know about her father. He saw a woman and a young man leave the house just ffew hours ago and he was told to keep them away from this house. Zoya asked who gave the orders to him. The watchman gave a number. Zoya took the number from him and looked at it for some time and asked for his phone. Once the number got connected Zoya started bashing him through the phone left and right without giving any time to the person at the other end to speak. She threatened to take him court if he doesn't tell where her father is. And at the other end it was nobody but Asad. Asad had already recognized her voice and was now at peace that she has reached NYC safely. He was purposely prolonging the call by fighting with her, otherwise he will loose track of her again. Soon Asad reached her house and was standing in front of a screaming Zoya. Zoya's eyes widened seeing him. She at first thought that she was hallucinating and she slapped herself to confirm whether she was not day dreaming. Asad spead his arms wide open and in no time Zoya ran into his arms. He peppered kisses all over her face seeing her safe. They informed each other about the events happened and Asad said that her father is safe and is with him. Asad took Zoya with him to see her father.

Usma house

Zoya ran to see her father. On seeing him she just hugged him with all her might and crushed him. Gaffur was also happy seeing his daughter safe. Gaffur whispered in a low voice "Zoya.. meri... bachi" Non stop Tears were flowing from his eyes. Zoya shot up to look at him. "abbu aap bol sakte hai" Gaffur slightly nodded. Zoya was overwhelmed seeing that her father can speak now. Zoya told blushing "abbu apko pata hai, yeh Asad hai, mere mangetaar, vo sab kuch achanak hogaya ki main apko kuch bata nahi payi, lekin ab sab kuch teek hoga, mera dil keh raha hai" Gaffur nodded in uncertainity. Soon they head a voice "yeh nikah nahi hosakta" All turned to see Badi bi standing there at the door. Asad asked "badi bi aap yeh kya keh rahi hai, kyun nahi hosakta yeh nikah" Badi bi "maine keh diya hai bas, nahi hoga tho nahi hoga, aur koi sawal mat poochna, jaldi hi Usma ke school ka function attend karenge aur vapis challenge Bhopal, acha hoga ki tum Zoya ko bhool jao Asad" Asad "badi bi yeh sab kya hai, aur achanak se yeh faisla, kal thak to aapko humara nikah qubool tha, apko zoya pasand thi, aaj kya hogaya, aaj aise kyun keh rahi hain, aur Zoya ko bhoolna, sawal hi paida nahi hota, abto yeh nikah hokar hi rahega" Badi bi "Asad tum kabse apni Badi bi ke khilaf jane lage, kya zoya ke sangat ka asar hai kya, tum bado ka lihaaz karna bhi bhool gaye" Zoya was standing like a statue hearing all these. Asad "badi bi aap iss tarah zoya ki bezzati nahi kar sakti, kya kiya zoya ne, jo aap iss tarah se usse neecha dikha rahi hai, aur aap janti hai ki hum dono ek dusra kitni mohabbat karte hai, yeh sab janke bavajoot aap yeh sab..muje apse yeh umeed nahi thi"

Gaffur intervened "Ayesha, zara socho, bache ek dusre ko pasand karte hain, aur agar unki khushi agar iss nikah main hai, tho hum koun hote hain unhe rokne wale" Badi bi " Gaffur tum chup raho, tum bol rahe ho, tum, pyar mohabaat ki batein tumhare zubaan se achi nahi lagti, barso pehle tumne muje dhoka diya, aur majboor hokar kissi aur se rishta jodna pada, are tumne hamesha meri doulat se mohabbat ki mujse nahi, aur tumhari iss beti ko aaj main apne ghar ki bahu banao sawal hi paida nahi hota hai" Asad and Zoya both were bewildered at this revelation. Gaffur "agar main tumhare doulat se mohabbat karta tha, tho muje iss tarah se apne aapko sabit karne ke liye yahan videsh nahi ana padta, maine tho tumhare abbu ke kehne par vilayat jaakar apne aap ko qabil bana chahta tha kyunki tumhare abbu ko tumhara nikah ek gazal gayak se karna manzoor nahi tha, issliye unhone muje ek saal ka waqt diya apne aap ko saabit karne ke liye, aur main tumhari abbu ki baat man li, akhir ek baap hone ke nate unhone jo manga vo teek muje teek laga, vo apni beti ko, jisne aaj tak sari aysh aur aram ki zindagi guzari usko ek din chopdi main dekna ek baap ke liye bohot mushkil hoga. Aur jab main tumse milne aya, yeh kehne ke liye ki mera intezaar karna main lout kar aunga tumne kissi aur se sagaai kar rahi thi, aur main bina kuch bole hi, vahan se chala aya, meri kya galati hai, Ayesha, maine tumhe ek ache zindagi dene ke liye, apne aap ko tumhari abbu ki nazar main qabil banana chaha? Dhoka to tumne bhi muje diya, nikah ka vada mujse kar kar kissie aur se nikah kiya, kyunki main ek gazal gayak tha aur tumhe ek achi zindagi nahi desakta tha, mera dil iss qadar toota ki phir uss dil ko ek naya ruk diya meri nanhi Zoya ne jab usne pehli baar abbu bulaya jab main usse iss hathon main liya tha, jo sare duniye ke liye meri beti hai, lekin sach tho yeh hai ki main uska baap nahi hoon, Zoya se mera khoon ka rishta nahi hai, maine sirf usse pala hai, god main khilaya hai, ek baap ka pyar diya hai." Badi bi shouted "Gaffuuurrr". Zoya fainted hearing all these and Asad caught her and took her to the room. Gaffur replied "chillane mat Ayesha chillane se koi faydaa nahi, sachai nahi badlegi, hum dono ko alag kiyaa tumhare abbu ne aur salon baad ab tum vohi galati dourane jaa rahi ho, mat karo Ayesha, yeh gunah mat karo, do pyar karne walo ko alag mat karo, aaj ek baap ki vinti sunlo, barson pehle aise ek baap ne muje apne mohabbat se alag kiya tha, lekin main vo galati nahi karunga, Zoya ko apna lo Ayesha, yeh nikah ke liye man jao, zid mat karo" Badi bi left the room.

In another room

Asad was patting her cheeks and sprinkled some water on her face. She slowly came to senses. "Asad yeh sab kya hogaya, abbu aur Badi bi..." Asad "zoya yeh sab mat socho, koi hume alag nahi kar sakta, main aisa hone nahi doonga, apko mujpar yakeen hai" Zoya nodded. Asad took her to a bone crushing hug and kissed into her hair pacifying her. "don't worry main Badi bi ko mana loonga,sab kuch teek hojayega, everything will be fine" He himself was not sure how he is going to convince his grandmother but for Zoya he needed to be strong.

Usma's school.

Usma , Asad and Badi bi were seated on the dias and the principal were addressing the prayer meeting. He asked to observe 2 minutes silence in their honor. Principal reminisced how Anwar and Zeenat actively took part in all the school activities and their timely intervention as trustees from time to time had also benefited the school. They always were keen to improve the school facilities and the learning modules and Anwar designed a curriculum for the first time which helped children to learn skills too along with bookish knowledge. A book was release in Anwar's memory and was dedicated to him for his publishing and literary works. Principal called Usma, his daughter to release the first edition of the book. The function went on well. Badi bi had completely realized that she had been unfair to Zeenat and Anwar by shunning them off and not letting them to befriend her just to prove that once she was deprived of her love others too should stay away from it. She looked at Zoya who was sitting among the audience in the first row. Usma was showing the book to her and both were very much happy with each other. Badi bi "muje apna pyar nahi mila iska matlab yeh tho nahi ki mere Asad ko uska pyar nahi milega, agar Asad ki khushi zoya hai, tho muje zoya qubool hai, maine Anwar aur Zeenat ko tho kho diya ab, Asad aur Usma nahi khona chahti, main ab sirf unke liye jeeungi, unki khushi main hi meri khushi hai"

Next Chapter : The final showdown