Asya/KaBhi OS: What She Wants

Drabble, half of it typed on my phone while sleep deprived before my first day back to work. Originally titled When in Rome, That One Day and only my brain knows what else. I wasn't going to post it but I dunno if I will be on IF over the next few days. I had no concept for this, I wrote it as it came to me. If you hate it, ignore it. If it's okay, do let me know. Ignore mistakes; I am going to bed now after being awake for over 24 hours. MWAH! <3

This is not a dedication because it is a shit OS. But Nimra di, love you forever and always!

Asya/KaBhi OS: What She Wants...

Zoya played her fingers on her lap impatiently waiting for the time to pass and for her flight to be announced. She had checked in almost an hour ago, so much for getting here on time. She ended up arriving at the airport 3 hours early. She was one of the first people in line to get checked in when it was time. She threw her head back, why was she so damn nervous. She hated flying; it gave her the worst of jitters. The meeting in Hong Kong was long forgotten and her mind consumed with the documentaries of plane crashes that she may or may not have watched in the past.

"Allah please protect us" Zoya closed her eyes. She jumped hearing the announcement.

"Good afternoon passengers. This is the pre-boarding announcement for flight NY89B to Rome. We are now inviting those passengers with small children, and any passengers requiring special assistance, to begin boarding at this time. Please have your boarding pass and identification ready. Regular boarding will begin in approximately ten minutes time. Thank you."

"Ahmed, why couldn't you give me a direct flight to Hong Kong" She cried taking deep breaths. "Why did you agree to this Zoya? Why do you always have to agree with Ahmed? Why?" Her eyes ran over her left hand, empty hand and she had her answers. She got up picking up her handbag and her laptop case before heading to board the plane where a queue had started. But she went into a different queue. She was flying business class. Not something she could afford but Ahmed insisted that she should have a comfortable flight as he cared about her. And that small thought brought a smile to her face. She smiled passing her boarding pass to one of the male attendants, her eyes ran over his tailored fitted blue suit, his facial structure carved into stone and a twinkle in his eyes. He smiled and Zoya blinked. Straight from a Colgate advert. She smiled sheepishly being led inside towards her seat. Her eyes went over the business class seats; they were so luxurious and so expensive. This was the first time she was flying business and there was obvious differences between these seats and economy seats. Stupid world, they have to separate this too according to class. What a world she lived in. Her eyes fell on the attendant waiting for her to take her seat but she realised she had the end seat and she really wanted to sit near the window so that she could lean against the side of the plane. Yes, though these seats already had the bed things, she was going to fly like she would in economy and she didn't want to lean her head against anyone.

"Is something the problem madam?" The attendant leaned in a bit closer. He smelt good too.

"I wanted the window seat" She made one of those upset faces that never worked anyone but she wanted to try. He nodded.

"I'll try fixing something for you. You take your seat now; I'll have a word with the gentleman that is seating on that seat. If you need anything give me a shout" He bent down as she sat down and smiled at her. Zoya looked at him feeling weird; no one has ever been this nice to her. She nodded mouthing a thank you, that Colgate smile turned wider showing all of his perfectly white teeth. Wow, she needed to wear shades. She breathed out heavily trying to get comfortable in her seat. She didn't feel like she fit in, her eyes went over all the posh suited and booted people coming on board. She looked down at her flowery pale yellow dress and beige heels. She wasn't going straight to the meeting then why should she dress smart? She shook off her thoughts and leaned back against the seat dreading the lift off. She closed her eyes, her hands going over stomach as it twisted and tumbled inside of her that it was making her want to be sick. She felt a strong cologne brush her nose as someone walked past her before making themselves comfortable in the window seat that she wanted. She noticed his hesitation but she smoothly gathered her legs to give him enough space to move in. She didn't open her eyes; she just didn't have the strength to convince this man that she wanted his seat.

"Excuse me?" She heard his voice, his voice was neither soft nor stern, but it was deep and husky. She slowly opened her eyes and blinked at a set of instructions behind the other seat. She slowly looked over at him; her eyes went over his jawline as his jaws clenched together staring at his phone and texting. Her shameless eyes ran down his neck and his black suit. Feeling her gaze on him, he turned to face her. He found her staring at him as if she was examining his whole being. He met her eyes, she shook herself out of it and looked away instantly. Zoya mentally scolded herself finding him catch her looking at him. She bit the side of her lips, her forehead creased and her eyes closed. Whatever she could catch of his face, his facial structure was perfect. His cheekbone was highly defined and his brown eyes were charming. He smiled finding her turn a deep crimson trying to hide her face behind her loose hair.

"Yes sir." The female flight attendant came and leaned over. Zoya moved her head back awkwardly; the flight attendant followed her eyes towards an uncomfortable Zoya and fixed her positioning.

"Can I get a black coffee please?" She heard him ask, his tone was softer.

"Yes of course sir. Anything else?" She smiled at him. Zoya stared at her with wide eyes. She remembered asking for coffee once before the flight took off, the attendant lectured her before walking off. But this woman in front of her, her eyes were glued on the passenger next to her. If she had it her way, she would sit in his lap and ask him if he needed anything. She watched as her eyes turned towards her like she was instructed by him to look at her.

"Do you want anything madam?" She asked in her nicest tone. Now she realises.

"No thank you." Zoya shook her head. Her insides felt like she was going to be sick. The lady smiled and walked away as if her answer wouldn't have affected her anyways. "Oh okay. Fine." Zoya mumbled to herself. She looked over at him and it was his turn to be caught staring at her. He got back to his phone fully aware that her gaze was on him now. Her eyes went over his right hand that had a band on it. He was either engaged or married but it didn't look like a wedding band. She looked away and started fastening her belt nervously. Everyone was chattering, it was such a cheery environment but her head felt fuzzy. She held onto both of the sides of her seat and tensed hearing the announcement for take-off. She closed her eyes and started chanting prayers in a whisper. Her legs crossed feeling the plan start to move. She crossed both of her hands together and held it under her chin before closing her eyes.

"Please Allah, protect me. Protect us. Travel dua... what is it what it" Her knees shook, he watched her closely. He was about to speak but stopped. "In the name of Allah, and Praise be to Allah. Glory unto Him Who created this transportation, for us, though we were unable to create it on our own." Zoya prayed reciting the rest of it in Arabic. Her hand grabbed the armrest but instead held his arm and leaned back as it took off, the name of her Lord refusing to move off her lips. She stopped reciting when all she could hear was her breathing and inconsistent heartbeats; the plane stopped shaking. She opened her eyes slowly and looked around her. She coughed trying to regain composure. She felt his hand move, her head shot towards her grip over his tight muscles. She looked up into his eyes as they looked at her.

"Sorry" She bit the side of her lips nervously. "I hate flying. I didn't want to be here today... I" She froze and then removed her hand.

"It's okay" He said consolingly. "Do you want something to drink?" He asked finding her sweating.

"I am fine thanks" She whispered softly grabbing a hair band from her bag and tying her hair back into a pony tail. She breathed out; he smiled seeing her finally relax. He could see more of her face now; her lips were pink, round and full. She didn't have much make up on; her cheeks were a natural shade of pink over her pale skin. Her eyes were bare; they only had a coat of mascara on her eyelashes that fluttered so effortlessly. He noticed a beauty spot just under her ears. She continually brushed her fingers over that side of her cheek.

"I'm fine" Zoya whispered to herself. But she still felt sick. She placed her hand over her mouth trying to stop herself from pretending to puke just to let it out of her system.

"Are you okay?" She heard him ask her.

"I.feel.sick" She just about managed to say before yanking her seatbelt off and ran towards the toilets. He was taken aback wondering whether he should go after her or not.

"Here is your coffee Mr Khan, can I get you anything else." The hostess smiled placing the coffee down in front of him.

"Thanks Emily. Can you get me another coffee and maybe lime water?" He smiled at her. She nodded dreamily at him before walking off. Zoya came back out of the washroom, her face had gone pale. She looked consciously around her coming back towards her seat trying not to trip in her heels. She watched the male that sat next to her get up and offer his hand to her. She took it without thinking twice and he helped her sit down.

"Are you okay?" He asked her again.

"Much better now that it is all out of me" She laughed nervously. He removed his hand off her.

"Thank you." She pressed her eyes at him.

"Here is your lime water and coffee Mr Khan" The hostess came back.

"It's for..." He signalled his head towards Zoya, she creased her forehead.

"Zoya" Was all she managed to utter.

"It's for Zoya. Thank you Emily." Asad nodded making her sigh again placing the lime juice and coffee on the stand fixed by him.

"Thank you Mr Khan" Zoya thanked him once the hostess left.

"Asad" He pointed towards the drink.

"Coffee I understand but lime water?" She questioned. He scratched the back of his head.

"Ammi says it helps when you feel sick. I couldn't think of anything else." He made a face. Zoya shook her head.

"Thanks Asad." She reached for the water and drank it. He didn't reply, he just watched her.

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Zoya had spent most of the flight reading her favourite novel, Glamour by Louise Bagshawe. She exchanged awkward sorry's and thank you's with Asad while they were both engrossed in their own work. He had been typing away on his laptop occasionally glancing at her to see if she was okay. Zoya put her book away when he heard the announcement to land. She looked over at Asad horrified, he tried to comfort her with his eyes.

"Here we go again" She bit her lips nervously.

"It's okay, don't worry" He shut his laptop and fastened his seatbelt. "Think of something else."

"Erm okay. First thing I'm going to do after we land is eat the biggest meal I have ever eaten in Italian style" She said excitedly while her heart raced, she tried to forget but couldn't.

"What was that book about that you were reading?" He asked her. He put his hand on the armrest and she grabbed it as if it was the most natural thing to do.

"Oh that. Yeah the book is so special..." Zoya started narrating the story to him while he listened to her intently. She didn't realise when they had landed, there was a second when it shook she tried to look away from him but he asked her further questions. She stopped finding him looking at her contentedly.

"Welcome to Rome Zoya" He smiled. She looked around the plane before facing him. That look on his face gave her jitters. Maybe it wasn't meant for her in that way, but she has never had anyone look at her in such a satisfying way.

"We made it." She breathed out.

"Yes we did." She removed her hand from his and gathered herself. She got up grabbing her bag and stood up to exit the plane with him following behind her. She struggled to keep herself steady wrapping her laptop over her shoulder stepping out into the bright airport. She could feel the warm heat radiating from the sunlight through the windows and kiss her skin. It felt so good. She carried on walking to pick up her suitcase so that she could grab something to eat and then board her flight in 2 hours. She waited patiently watching all the suitcases run past her on the machine. She found someone's feet next to her, she raised her glance to find Asad standing next to her. His straight posture, his tailored fitted suit and his overall presence screamed business. He looked like an authoritative figure whose one glance can have you dropping to your knees. This was not the man that helped her on the plane.

"I'm fine Ammi. Yes, just landed in Rome. I'll wrap things up quickly in Hong Kong and come straight to India. Please stop worrying. Give my love to tamater. Bye" Asad put his phone back in his pocket and bent forward to grab his suitcase when his eyes fell on a pair of beige heels. His eyes went up her legs and then that familiar yellow dress.

"Hi" He lifted his suitcase. She clutched onto hers and put it down.

"Hey. You're also headed for Hong Kong?" She asked, "Sorry, just heard you speak to your mother." She bit her lips nervously.

"Ahh yes. You too" He pointed at her like he was accusing of her something.

"Yupp!" She nodded as they both walked along the corridor leading into the main airport. "Where are you headed now?"

"I was going to inquire regarding the status of our next flight. I heard an announcement but couldn't catch it being on the phone." He told her, she followed beside him.

"Oh shoot, don't tell me it is delayed." Zoya pretended to cry.

"Be positive Zoya." Asad smiled. His smile was too die for. She noticed his dimples. She stood behind him whilst he inquired regarding the flight. She was startled hearing him raise his voice. He turned around running his fingers through his hair as she stared him concerned.

"Next flight to Hong Kong in 24 hours. Everything cancelled." Asad informed her.

"Are you kidding me?" Zoya felt her knees give in.

"Believe me, I am in no mood to kid around" Asad walked off. Zoya stared at his retreating back while she clung onto her handbag. He glanced over his shoulder.

"Are you coming?" He asked her.

"Where?" She asked dumbfounded.

"Hotel"

"Hotel?" She repeated.

"You're more than welcome to stay here if you want" He shrugged his shoulders.

"I'm coming" She pulled her suitcase behind her.

"Were you serious about that big meal?" Asad asked passing her a room key.

"Always serious about food." She laughed.

"Would you like to join me for lunch?"

"Meet you down here in 30 minutes" She stepped into the lift.

"Great" He nodded at her watching the lifts close. He stood there for a few moments finally wondering why on earth he invited her for lunch. Looking after her on the plane and seeing that she needed taking care of made him feel responsible for her. They have become plane buddies. What the hell Asad. What is wrong with you?

"Plane buddies?" He questioned surprised at his own thinking. He mocked a laugh going back towards reception. He couldn't deny, he found it endearing when she closed her eyes and chanted the name of her Lord for protection. She chanted in Arabic and in English. She didn't look like a religious person but her heart was pure. Appearance wasn't everything.

Zoya had showered, she needed to get rid of that stench from her vomiting and then the heat was making her sweat profusely. She dried her hair with the towel having changed into a white cotton maxi dress and wedged sandals. She applied a soft pink lipstick to her lips before leaving her wet hair loose. She went over to her handbag and took out her purse with her mobile phone. She glanced at the time on the wall, it has been 45 minutes. She rushed through the door grabbing her hat and locked the door behind her. She exited the lifts placing her beige floppy hat on top of her head to find Asad standing there dressed in a pair of khaki pants and a white shirt with his back towards her. If his business look was sharp, his casual look will have women swooning over him. She coughed to get his attention; he turned around and stopped dead in his tracks.

"I am so sorry, I started showering and then I uh I tried ringing my daadi but my phone isn't allowing any calls to go through. I know she must be panicking I " She removed her hat and ranted on and on. He held his phone out to her. She blinked at him, he nodded.

"Thank you?" She whispered.

"What do you want to eat?" He put his hand out towards the exit, she walked off with him behind her.

"I don't mind" Her eyes ran over the city, "Wow, this is just beautiful" She whispered. It had been years since she has had the opportunity to come anywhere like this. She was too busy handling all the responsibilities at home and taking care of her grandma. She wouldn't have come on this trip if it wasn't for Ahmed. He wanted this contract really badly before their engagement. But, she was glad she took it because this city was breathtakingly beautiful.

"Look at that place, that looks good." He pointed, feeling totally relaxed.

"My first time here, I'll follow you" Zoya smiled dialling the numbers on his phone.

"Mine too." He told her before helping her cross the road; Zoya's eyes went over his hand securely around her while he looked around the busy roads trying to get them both across to the other side. He let go as soon as they got to the other side and opened the door for her. Her heart burst with all sorts of feelings. He was a gentleman in every sense. "Table for two please" Asad informed the waiter before being led further into the restaurant, he pushed the doors to an open space. Zoya froze at the door; her eyes went over the beautifully decorated tables under the trees, the sun shining directly onto the area. She stepped outside and walked to the edge of the restaurant, her hand went over the railings looking at the river flowing effortlessly. The waves reflected the smile on her face. She turned around to find Asad waiting for her at their table. She rushed back towards him; he pulled the chair out for her and then sat down opposite her.

"Even I am stunned" Asad chuckled finding Zoya fall short for words to describe the feelings inside of her. She nodded while he had a look at the menus. She held the phone to ears and almost jumped hearing it ring. Asad looked up at her.

"Daadi, it's me Zoya. How are you? Are you okay?" Zoya held the phone tightly. She nodded listening to her reply while Asad's eyes remained glued on her. "No no, I am fine. Honestly, better than fine. I have asked Sophie to come check on you. I am so sorry daadi. I hate being away from you. I am in Rome; the next flight for Hong Kong isn't till tomorrow. Don't worry I am not alone" She looked up at Asad. "No I haven't spoken to Ahmed; I couldn't even get hold of him before I left. I know daadi. But you trust him, so that means I do. The engagement is next week. Hopefully he will be in a better mood after this contract. I don't know why he has forced me here but hopefully I can get this for him." She sighed trying to hold back her tears. "Your Zoya is strong. And she will be fine. Just keep me in your duas. I will call you again soon. You take care of yourself and do not worry about me. I love you daadi" Zoya almost kissed the phone before hanging up. She met his eyes.

"Thank you" She passed the phone back to him.

"You're very welcome" He took the phone off her. "You're getting engaged?" He coughed, "Sorry I overheard your conversation."

"It's fine. Wasn't exactly talking in secret." She took a deep breath. "Yes I am." She replied.

"Why do you not sound so happy?"

"I am happy."

"Are you trying to convince me or yourself Zoya?"

"Both" Zoya laughed. He was sat confused.

"This contract in Hong Kong... Are you depending on it to get engaged?" He tried to sound casual, but his tone was different. He was shocked that she was marrying such a guy.

"No of course not." She said unsure. Would she still be getting engaged if she doesn't get this contract?

"How did you meet him?" He asked flipping through the menu.

"Asad, do you know what is happening with the menu" She pointed with wide eyes. He suppressed a laugh. "And he is a family friend and my boss. Me and grandma have been alone for a very long time. His mother had seen me at a function and she suggested me to him. He proposed to me and that was that." She shrugged her shoulders.

"Is that what you wanted?"

"Most of my life, everything that I have gotten I neither wanted nor needed. I have accepted everything in my life as my destiny. I have no one but my daadi. I have her responsibility. I do not have the strength or a strong enough mind to fight and want things." She was engrossed with the menu. "Ciao!" She smiled at the waitress. "Numero tre please" Zoya tried not to laugh at her bad italian.

"I'll have the same please. Grazie" He too sounded confused. Zoya nodded at him.

"Grazie" Zoya smiled.

"What do you want Zoya?" Asad focused on her.

"What do you mean?"

"What do you want for yourself?" He asked the same question. Zoya took a deep breath and looked around her. No one had ever asked her what she wanted. She had never thought about it.

"Ahmed..."

"Not what he wants. I want to know what you want for yourself."

"Right now, I want to enjoy Rome" She smiled widely.

"Right okay, will you spend the rest of your 20 hours with me in Rome?" He asked her. Zoya's expressions changed.

"Asad, what are you saying?"

"For the first time in your life you wanted something, and I'm asking you to give me the chance to fulfil your wish." He had this soothing expression on his face.

"But I just said it..."

"Whatever the reason may be, I want to fulfil it."

"Why?"

"Because I'm going to ask you to be my friend."

"Okay."

"Friends?" He put his hand forward. Zoya stared at his hand. She hesitantly put her hand forward but he shook his head.

"It's not going to work if you are unsure about it" He said.
"Do you want to be friend?"

"Yes" she nodded affirmatively taking his hand and he shook it.

"Now can I ask you a question?"

"Yes."

"What on earth did we order and why is it taking so long?" They both stared at one another before bursting out laughing. Asad watched her laugh, so freely. She was absolutely mesmerising. From the moment his eyes fell on her innocent face as she lay back on her seat to her chanting prayers. He had never seen anyone more beautiful.

"Give me your hand, come on" Asad put his hand out towards her.

"It's moving Asad, are you seriously going to jump off it?"

"Yes. Come on" He played his fingers,

"Oh what the hell." She grabbed his hand and they both jumped off the moving tram. "You're going to kill me. I regret it now" She shook her head.

"I'm showing you what it is like to want something and then go get it." He pulled her towards Trevi fountain which people prayed to for love and everything their heart desired. "I don't believe in all of this but they use the money for charity too. Either way. Make a wish Zoya." He took out coins from his pocket and held it in his palm.

"Wish or wishes?" She eyed his hand.

"Whatever your heart desires."

"Can I make a wish for you?" She tilted her head to look at him. He blinked at her.

"Stop thinking about anyone else. Just make a wish for you." He shook his hand. She grabbed a coin and stepped closer towards the foundation before facing her back towards it.

"As your friend, I pray to the Almighty that he fills your life with love, happiness and success" She smiled looking up to the sky. "I don't believe in this either; I have faith in my Lord. And anything I pray for, I pray for from Him. I have asked for enough for myself. Today, I want to pray for you. For your support and kindness. And for your company." She smiled. She threw the coin backwards into the pond. "For charity." She winked walking off.

Asad followed behind her.

"Thank you"

"For what?"

"For your prayer."

"Thank the Almighty" She told him.

They both stopped coming in front of a large building. They both watched as a newly married couple came out with their guests behind them.

"Are you married Asad?" She glanced at his hand. He lifted his hand and looked at the ring before slowly removing it.

"No." He replied with a heavy sigh.

"What's up?" She faced him.

"Nothing" He threw the ring and walked off. Zoya stared at the ring before running behind him. She grabbed his hand to stop him.

"What was that?" She questioned.

"I have been so engrossed in my work, I didn't realise I hadn't gotten rid of that ring."

"Why?"

"Some things are better not knowing" He tried to walk off but she stopped him.

"I want to know" She said softly.

"It's my failed engagement ring." He told her.

"Failed?"

"Let's just say, make sure you want to get married to him when you get engaged" He told her.

"She didn't want to?"

"She was spoilt for choice" He said bitterly.

"Asad... if you were holding onto that ring even after you broke up... doesn't that mean you stilll..."

"It meant something to me even if it didn't for her. It became a habit to wear the ring. And today, I don't want it. So I have gotten rid of it along with every bitter feeling I have for her. I forgive her." He looked her in the eye and smiled. She smiled back at him. "You prayed for me to find happiness. This is my first step towards it."

"Love and success coming up!" She joked. "Why are you going to Hong Kong, you never said." They both started walking along the streets.

"I have a meeting. Important deal. Hopefully it is worth the trip and I can get it so that I can return to India." He explained.

"You're going back to India?" She sighed, he caught her eyes flicker.

"I am from India" He clarified.

"How important is this deal?"

"Not very important if I really think about it. It won't affect me if I do not get it. But it is worth a shot and being the business man that I am, I like to grab every opportunity to expand the business." He smiled.

"I wish I could be as relaxed as you." She said nervously.

"How important is it for you?"

"Ahmed needs it." She didn't want it. "Let's head back to the hotel, I am tired." She put her hand out for a taxi. She paused for a moment.

"How is India?" She asked him.

"It is home." He replied helping her inside. That soothed her heart more than she knew. She was born in India and grew up in New York. She had never got to experience India as she had no one to ever go with. Her daadi and she lived alone. She had no family back home. What she wouldn't do to have the opportunity to go back and pray at her parents' graves, and embrace her parent's home.

"I'll see you in an hour" He smiled at her. She nodded at him and slowly headed towards the lift.
"Zoya?" He called behind her, she spun on her feet.

"Huh?" She signalled her head. Asad shook his head in a no.

"Nothing." He held his hand up at her to wave at her, Zoya smiled before walking inside the lift. She turned around and caught a glimpse of him engrossed on his phone. Such a busy man but still took out the time to show her Rome. That man was special. He doesn't give you his attention for the sake of it; he gives himself, his whole self. He had asked her what she wanted. She wants him to be happy. She had never come across anyone like him. He was a stranger yet her heart felt like she had known him forever. He was that dream away from her reality, that sweet daydream where men like him existed. And a girl like her, had found him. Her reality was anything but sweet. But she has never complained.

She stared at the picture on her phone, Ahmed standing next to her with his arm over her while she awkwardly stared up at his face, his eyes only for the camera. That was the only affectionate moment she had with him. His arm over her claiming his right on her as she had accepted his proposal. And then that day at the office where he desperately pleaded for her to go Hong Kong, in his sweet twisted way, praising her and showing her dreams of their future together. She accepted it. He is the only person in her life that could finally give her the security of a family, of a home. Her grandmother's last wish. How easily she shared all of that with Asad, she had never allowed herself to even doubt her decision about getting married to Ahmed. Why did she sound unsure when she told Asad? Maybe because she knew, he wouldn't judge her decisions. He didn't know her, he didn't know her struggles, he didn't know her well enough to impact her mind. But he did. He impacted her a lot. His caring eyes, protective arms, loving presence, sweet words, everything about him impacted her. Because he was showing it to her. Everything that she was deprived of growing up as an orphaned child.

She got up and changed into a long black flowy dress, the bottom looked like a chiffon skirt. It had a plunge neckline with floral lace bodice. Loose and very elegant for a night in Rome. She had saved it for Hong Kong. But she didn't know whether she would be comfortable wearing it in front of the associates at the after party. She grabbed a lace scarf and wrapped it around her. She tied half of her hair up and the rest she left loose over her shoulder. She was going to make the most of this night in Rome, tomorrow reality will set in. And that dreadful flight that she is crying just thinking about. She took deep breaths and closed the door behind her. She looked up to find Asad, who was as surprised as her finding her coming out.

"Heyy!" He smiled. He was dressed in a pair of wash blue jeans and a black shirt.

"I was just coming down." She watched his eyes run over her making her anxious.

"Are we going somewhere?" He teased.

"I'm going to show you what Rome is like at night." Zoya wriggled her eyebrows. "Stop giving me those looks, you're dressed the same" She pointed.

"I know, come on then. Let's have some fun. Live to the fullest in this one day." Asad held his hand in front of her. This was not the Asad Ahmed Khan he was familiar with. This was a different Asad who wanted to enjoy and cherish this one day with this beautiful girl, allow her to want things and then show her how to achieve those goals. Today, she wanted to enjoy Rome and he was going to show her just how to do it.

"This one day" She placed her hand in his and allowed him to guide her towards the lift and out of the hotel. They caught a taxi and arrived at an outside restaurant, with music and dancing all around. Asad wrapped his arm around her waist and supported her towards a table. He watched as her eyes sparkled watching the ladies dance to the rhythm of the music, their dresses beautifully in sync with their bodies.

"This is absolutely out of this world" She held her hand against her chest. "I have never seen so many happy faces, this environment, all I can hear is their laughter and it's such an indescribable feeling Asad. I really don't know what to say..." She placed her hand over his on the table. Asad placed his other hand over hers and leaned over the table.

"Do you want to dance Zoya?" He grinned, Zoya nodded eagerly. She had let herself free. She wasn't going to stop herself from enjoying every second of this night. He pulled her up, locking his hand around her waist before twirling her towards the group of people dancing. More people joined as the crowd cheered everyone on, dancing and clapping.

"Asad" Zoya's laughter echoed into his ears, her smile reflected back in his eyes. He spun her and she continued to twirl, putting her complete faith in him to guide her and support her throughout their crazy dance.
"This is crazy" She halted unable to stop herself from laughing, she was breathless. His hands went around her waist while he locked the other with hers. Their bodies moved to the music, colliding against each other, wild sensations ran through their bodies but it didn't stop them from dancing into the night.

"I wish I could live this day forever Zoya." Asad whispered into her ears as they both held each other, breathless. Zoya closed her eyes relaxing the tip of her head over his chest. Her hand around his body could feel his every heartbeat. She didn't want this feeling to leave her soul.

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"I am exhausted." Zoya sat back against her seat, Asad nodded in agreement with his eyes going over her hand over his arm.

"Relax, stop shaking. Everything will be fine." He comforted her in his soothing voice. He picked up the laptop with his right hand not wanting to remove her grip from his other hand. He liked the fact that she felt comforted by him, but he was even happier knowing that he could provide her with that comfort.

"Easy for you to say. If you could feel my heartbeats, you would know how fast it is racing right now." She closed her eyes hearing the announcement. "Please protect us Almighty" She placed her other hand over his arm too. "Please protect us" She prayed for them both. She leaned her head towards his shoulder; her brought his arm around and placed it over her head allowing her to hide in his arms.

"Just don't vomit" He teased. Zoya gripped him tightly, he couldn't help but chuckle. He felt her slowly relax in his arms before drifting off to sleep. Neither of them had slept. He was tired too but he didn't want to close his eyes. He didn't want to miss this moment to admire her properly. Who knows where they would go after this trip. This one day of bliss. That one day Asad Ahmed Khan had allowed his heart to allow this girl to become his centre of attention.
"I hope you let your heart to want things, and I hope it gives you strength to fight for it." His thumb brushed over her cheek. Her arms snaked around his arm tightly making herself comfortable on his shoulder. She had fought for the window seat but she wasn't the least bit interested in looking out of it.

"Zoya?" He moved his shoulder. Zoya stirred in her sleep making all sorts of noises protesting to his disturbance. She shot upright hearing the airplane move.

"OMG WHAT HAPPENED?" She panicked before blinking at him with wide eyes.

"Welcome to Hong Kong." He tried to stop his laugh seeing her staring at him adorably. He did feel bad waking her up but they had to depart off the plane. She rubbed her face with both of her hands trying to wake herself up; she had her hair in a high bun dressed in a plain white t-shirt with blue jeans. He thought she still looked mesmerising.

"Let's go" She grabbed her handbag and followed out of the plane behind him. "Let me know how the meeting goes." Zoya smiled as they both walked side by side. Asad was trying to come to terms with them both going their separate ways now.

"Make sure you want that contract with all your heart and then go for it. Be confident." Zoya froze with wide eyes. Asad looked back at her wondering why she stopped.

"Ahmed?" He followed her gaze and turned around slowly. A man in a grey suit stood with a smile on his face and a bouquet of red roses in his hands. Asad controlled his breath seeing her to be fiance in front of him. Zoya took slow steps forward; she met Asad's eyes momentarily. He didn't see the excitement in her eyes that he thought he might see. Ahmed rushed forward and engulfed her into a hug. Zoya's hand remained by her side, her eyes moving back to Asad's face.

"Zoya, babe!" He held her tightly. Zoya blinked a few times.

"Ahmed?" She broke out of her shock. "What are you doing here?" She pulled back.

"Surprise?"

"What surprise?" She snapped. "You said you couldn't come to Hong Kong so forced me on this plane and now you're here." She tried to hold back her tears. She didn't know what she was feeling right now.

"Babe, come on. Not here. Let's go to our hotel room." He grabbed her by the elbow and almost yanked her. Asad hissed, his murderous eyes picturing his hands around Ahmed's neck. Ahmed stopped when his eyes landed on Asad's face.
"Oh Asad Ahmed Khan, what a surprise. Who would've thought I would see you here before the meeting." Ahmed sniggered. Zoya stopped fussing and stared at his face in disbelief.

"We're up against Asad?" Zoya choked. Ahmed looked at her confused before focusing on Asad.

"Surprise Surprise Ahmed. And we meet again. Still sore from the last slap on your face?" Asad smirked. "No wonder you're squirming like a fish. Don't get your hopes high, that contract is mine too." His eyes went over Zoya's distressed face.

"Not if I can help it" He ran his eyes over Zoya in the most lustful way, Asad stepped forward. "See you at the meeting." He dragged Zoya across the airport, picking up her suitcase along the way while Asad stood rooted to his spot writhing with rage. He wasn't going to let Ahmed succeed.

"Babe, calm down. I thought we could do this together. Isn't that way you want?" He faced her, tucking strands of hair behind her ears. Zoya cringed.

"The whole point of me coming was because you couldn't. I left daadi alone for this." She crossed her arms.

"Your daadi has gone to Miami to stay with your khala. Why are you worried?" He caressed her face. Zoya stepped away.

"What?"

"She rang me to tell you when she found out I was coming to Hong Kong too. She told me about your 24 hour stay in Rome. So I came along and thought we could spend some quality time together before our engagement." He placed his hand over her shoulder while his other went around her waist. Zoya tensed. "I have a dress for you, get changed." He whispered into her ears.

"What? I'm going to wear a suit to this meeting, not a dress." She turned around to face him. He went towards the bed and brought the box back to her.

"Babe, you will look hot in this. Try it." He tried to pacify her but Zoya shook her head.

"It's a meeting Ahmed." She raised her voice.

"Mr Xing likes women in dresses" Ahmed told her. Zoya stepped back and looked up at him horrified. Did he just...

"WHAT?" Her eyes went over his face. She was disgusted by what she saw in his eyes. "You are disgusting Ahmed. You brought me here to entice Mr Xing to get you that contract..."

"Not entice, baby... this is for our future." He stepped forward. Zoya put her hand out, tears overflowing from her eyes.

"You are pathetic. This is for yourself. I may be poor, I may be an orphan, I may not have class... but I will not use my body for something like this, not for you, not for anyone." She brushed her arm over her face and grabbed her handbag before rushing for the door. He grabbed her arm.

"You owe me." He seethed.

"Owe you what? You're a filthy man. I don't want to marry you" She removed his grip off her and ran out of the room. She rushed down the stairs trying to stop her tears. How did she agree to marry a man like him? How did she accept such a destiny? Why did she not question herself when she knew she felt nothing for him? She blindly accepted everything he told her. She thought she would be a good employee and a dutiful wife to him. She didn't realise when she bumped into someone and almost fell back. His familiar hands grabbed her waist and held her up. Her lips quivered staring at his worried face.

"Zoya? What happened?" He engulfed her into a hug. "Hey, shhh. What did he do? Are you okay?" He held her tightly against him. His venomous eyes looked up finding Ahmed coming towards them.

"He wanted to use me to win that contract" Zoya cried.

"Zoya?!!!" Ahmed shouted. Asad pulled back from her and held her face in his hands brushing away her tears.

"What does Zoya want?" He whispered. Zoya pressed away her tears.

"I want you to kick his ass and win that contract. I want your success." She said softly.

"A dose of success coming up" He smiled, before slowly pushing her behind him. He stepped forward and grabbed Ahmed by the collar and lifted him into the air. "I would have loved it if she wanted me to literally kick your ass. That would have been so satisfying" Asad breathed sharply on his face before throwing him back.

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"Thank you" Zoya looked up to find him placing a cup of coffee in front of her. She passed his phone back to him having spoken to her grandma. "Congratulations." She smiled watching him sit down in front of her.

"You prayed for my success. So thank you" He placed two tickets in front of her.

"What's this?" She creased her forehead. "Tickets to India?" She looked surprised. He smiled back at her with a nod, his dimple making her heart skip a beat.

"Do you want to explore India with me Zoya?" He put his hand forward.

"Why?"

"Because I want to explore my home with you."

"Home?"

"Rome was special. But, it wasn't enough. I want to spend many more days with you... knowing you, wanting you, and praying for you." He said softly. "Do you want that Zoya?"

"Yes I do." Zoya placed her hand in his and got up. He threw her New York ticket away and wrapped his arm around her waist walking towards the gate for India.

Happiness. Done.

Success. Done.

Love... in process.