A Love Lyrical. An AsYa Ts. Last Part on page 5. - Page 3

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Hey Guys,

A big thank you to everyone who read and replied on my TS. Your words mean a lot to me. Now I'm posting the last chapter of this story in two parts. Hope you like it.

This one's for you Choco.

Siss.. Thank you once again.

Love.

Part A.

Asad squinted his eyes to read the classified section of a newspaper in the pale white light coming from the computer screen in the otherwise dark room. He marked another job advertisement and typed the company's name on a search engine to get the details of the job. He minimized the tab and leaned back in his leather chair with a resigned sigh having met with the same result as his previous searches. It had been over a month since he bid farewell to his beloved. Initially he hadn't been able to concentrate on anything around him except for the deafening silence and heartache consuming his soul. Vikram, his mentor and guardian, had been with him at each step urging him to take back the reins of life in his hands rather than give up on the first hardship. Asad had drawn courage and strength from Vikram's relentless support and his love for Zoya to make decisions on how to stand on his own two feet and climb the social ladder which would in turn help him in fulfilling his promise but the following days hadn't been easy on him by any means. He had had to face a lot of negativity and disappointment.

"I see you're making a habit of staying back late." The sudden voice made Asad sit upright and focus on the figure standing at the threshold.

"I was about to leave Uncle." He said reluctantly getting to his feet and clearing his desk.

"Why don't you come home with me Asad? I'm not feeling very well tonight." Vikram knew Asad stayed nights at the office, pushed himself into heaps of work trying to run away from loneliness and the thoughts that tagged along. He understood his feelings very well hence didn't leave him alone for long. Where some quite time was required to ponder and reminiscence the old times, it was of equal importance to indulge in some conversations and enjoy company.

"Do you want me to drive you to the hospital? Or should I call your physician?" He asked worriedly.

"No, no, its nothing serious. Your company and a game of chess will do me good." Asad looked at him apprehensively, looking for signs of ill health and on not finding any nodded his head in agreement. He too didn't want to return to the house that only served as a reminder of the moments he had shared with Zoya.

"How did your interview go?" Not wanting to hurt Asad or impose himself Vikram treaded carefully around him.

"Same as others." He replied disheartedly.

"It takes time for things to shape up. You didn't think i made all this in just few days, did u? It took years of patience, dedication and hard work to reach where I'm today." He consoled him.

"I'm tired of this all Uncle." Asad said closing the drawer forcefully.

"I never said it was easy. You will have to learn to strive my boy. Whenever you feel lost or demotivated just remember the person you're doing all this for and believe me your spirits will soar to new heights everytime." Vikram assured him as they left the hotel.

"Hello Zack." Asad rolled down the window to greet Zack on his way out of the parking lot.

"Hi Asad. I've been trying to locate your office for the past fifteen minutes. How are you?" Zack's face lit up seeing him.

"I'm good, thank you. Was there something you needed from me?"

"Yes. I know I'm very late but.." Zack stopped mid sentence realizing they had company.

"Zack, meet Vikram uncle. He's the owner of this place and just like my father, you can say whatever you want in front of him." Asad assured seeing his hesitation.

"I had to thank you for taking out time for my wedding anniversary celebration. Aaiza has asked me to convey her greetings and thanks as well."

"Your welcome. Please give my regards to Aaiza."

"Asad, I want you to accept this, it's a little token of our appreciation." Zack handed him a cheque.

"No Zack. I appreciate your sentiments but I will not take this. I'm forever indebted to you for your help in making it possible for me to meet Zoya at the airport. Plus we had a deal.." He handed it back.

"Which I never agreed to. Uncle, please help me out over here." Zack said drawing Vikram in the conversation.

"I'm with Asad on this one. You've done your part Zack, it'll be fair to let him keep his side of the deal as well. I'm very grateful for your help son." Vikram said reaching forward to take Zack's hand in his own.

"Please Uncle, it was nothing much. Asad, please come over whenever you get a chance."

"I will. Bye Zack." He pressed on the accelerator and drove away.

"I am not sure i know this person Uncle." Asad frowned at the deep blue business card with fonts in silver italics in his hand.

"You don't. He's Prem Basu, owner of the most successful music label in our country. He is a regular guest at our hotel. He has heard you sing numerous times and was all praises. He wants to discuss some proposal and because you weren't in today, he dropped his card with me." Vikram said playing his next move on the checkered board.

"Proposal? I don't understand why would he want to meet me?"

"Why do you think a music label approaches someone Asad?"

"I'm not a musician Uncle. Just someone who plays random music and I'm surely not looking for an opening in this filed."

"Thats where you're wrong son. You should consider this. Im certain you'll suceed here. Its ur passion afterall." Vikram pointed out confidently.

"There's a surplus of artists here uncle who never make it to the music scene never mind the heights." Asad countered not understanding the point of the conversation.

"Why do you think that is Asad? Not everyone gets an oppurtunity you're presented with. Go for it my boy. Meet Prem and make the best of the situation."

"Im not a seasoned musician uncle. I only write and sing when inspiration strikes. I will be wasting Mr. Basu's time."

"You leave that decision on him. Don't let this golden chance slip from ur fingers son, anyways u have nothing to lose. Only gains. So put all apprehension behind and meet him with an open mind."

"I will if you say." He agreed for his sake.

Two weeks later Asad sat with a lawyer discussing all the terms and legalities in the contract which he was signing with Prem's music company. The only condition he had placed was to not reveal his real identity, at least not now and so they had settled to refer him as 'Leo'.

"Welcome to our team Asad." Prem patted his back with a warm smile.

"Thank you Mr.. Sorry. I mean Prem."

"We should celebrate tonight, what do you say about going out for a round of drinks?" He asked.

"Umm.. Not today. Can we plan something for the weekend?" Asad asked hesitantly not wanting to offend him.

"Very well. Weekend it is then. Asad now that you have signed the contract, I would like you to come to the studios and familiarize yourself with the equipments and the technacalities of recording an album. In the mean time I want you write the eighth and last song for your first album. Okay?"

"Yes. I'll begin working from tomorrow onwards. See you later." Asad shook hands with him and the lawyer. He left the building with a small smile on his lips, in a long time, to share the happy news with his uncle.

Asad crumpled another paper into a ball and threw it on the floor where it joined the rest of the rejected and discarded wrinkled sheets with random quoplets scribbled on it. He raked fingers through his already dishelved hair and groaned in frustration. It had been well over a fortnight since he was trying to write a song but with no luck. All he ended up doing was come up with few random lines which never matched nor rhymed with the others. He was mad at himself and hurt at the turn of events; nothing seemed to be going his way. Asad picked up his guitar and stormed out of the room at Vikram's villa which had now become his abode since he had shifted here on his insistence. He had refused a couple of times but later realizing the practicality of the situation he gave in. Now he ran down the stairs suddenly feeling suffocated inside.

"Leo, come here." Asad skidded to a halt abruptly as Vikram called him. He frowned thinking why he wasn't using his real name.

"Meet our guest Mr. Farooqui." His eyes widened before narrowing into slits emitting fury.

"Hello Sir." He said stiffly thrusting his free hand into his trousers clearly showing no desire for a handshake.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Leo. Vikram speaks very high of you and I'm glad that atleast Zoua made a sensible friend while she was here." The sweet smile on the old man's face and his words sickened Asad but he said nothing.

"Why don't you sing something for us? I would love to hear you."

"No." He replied in a tone which implied no arguments. He was surprised the old man hadn't recognized him but then he shouldn't have because what could you expect from a shallow person who rejected people just on basis of their social status. Asad had one mind to tell him who he really was but he didn't want to embaress his uncle so adopted silence.

"Hello my darling daughter. Your timings are impeccable." Mr. Farooqui said receiving the call on his mobile.

"Why so bitter? You want to know who I'm sitting with right now? I'll tell you anyway. Vikram and your friend Leo. I knew that will catch your attention." He laughed in a tone that radiated mean and evil.

"Because I'm in such a good mood today you can talk to them both. Here." He passed the mobile to Vikram whose gaze was stuck at Asad the whole time he spoke.

"You're in luck today dear because the person you're asking for is right in front of me. Leo." Vikram said.

"Zoya." Asad spoke her name so softly that it felt sweeter than all the endearments she'd ever heard and that was all she needed before the walls surrounding her heart crumpled and she broke out into heart wrenching sobs. His jaw clenched, palm tightened around the guitar until his knuckles turned white and breathing became a hereculean task with his insides ripping apart. Asad's body went stiffer with tension and helplessness on hearing her call out to him.

"Vikram why don't you show me around? I would like to see the sprawling gardens outside." Mr. Farooqui's voice cut through the thick silence that had fallen around the drawing room. Vikram grabbed the chance with both hands and ushered him out hastily.

"Don't cry Jaan. Please." Asad rasped in a broken voice trying to rein in his own spiralling emotions. He needed to be strong for her not show his own weakness. He strummed the strings of his guitar not knowing how to express his feelings in any other way.

"O ho...

Tu aas hai meri

Tu pyaas hai meri

Tu hi dhadkano mein rahe

Tu hi zindagi hai

Tujhse har khushi hai

Tu hi aashiqui dil kahe

Chaahe jitni bhi hon uljhane

Par na dekhun main aansoo teri aankhon mein

Mera dil rou raha hai

Pukaare tujhe ab ye raste meri saanson ke

Tu aas hai meri

Tu pyaas hai meri

Tu hi dhadkano mein rahe

Tu hi zindagi hai

Tujhse har khushi hai

Tu hi aashiqui dil kahe

Na jaane mujhe raaton mein

Tadpaaye yaadein teri

Sone na de mujhe

Sataaye wo baatein teri

Tu wafaaon mein meri, duaaon me meri

Hamesha hi shaamil rahe

Mera dil rou raha hai

Pukaare tujhe ab ye raste meri saanson ke

Tu aas hai meri

Tu pyaas hai meri

Tu hi dhadkano mein rahe

Tu hi zindagi hai

Tujhse har khushi hai

Tu hi aashiqui dil kahe

Bin tere khoye-khoye se

Mere savere huve

Mitt jaayein tere jeevan se

Jitne andhere hue

Tu lehar khushion ki

Tu hi toh hai ujaala

Meri saansein tujhse chalein

Mera dil rou raha hai

Pukaare tujhe ab ye raste meri saanson ke

Tu aas hai meri

Tu pyaas hai meri

Tu hi dhadkano mein rahe

Tu hi zindagi hai

Tujhse har khushi hai

Tu hi aashiqui dil kahe.."

By the time Asad finished the song Zoya's sobs had turned into soft sniffles.

"Always know that I'm there with you. Don't let these physical distances mar our relationship. I'm working hard to fulfill my promise but I need you to stay strong too. Please look after yourself for me. I love you Meri Jaan." Asad's voice dropped down to a hushed whisper on seeing the reflection of Mr. Farooqui by the main door in the mirror on the opposite wall. He placed the mobile on the nearby table and rushed out of the Villa barely managing to nod in the men's direction.

Asad was aware that Zoya hadn't left the country willingly or in good circumstances but talking to her made him realize that she was downright miserable. They had both had to part ways but she was the one suffering more. She had had to leave behind everything and everyone she held dear whereas he was still in familiar surroundings and amongst people he was well acquainted with. Where her pain sliced his heart into tiny pieces and pierced his soul with its shards, it also awakened in him the need and passion to end her misery and claim her as his in front of the world as soon as he could. Thus the following months saw Asad putting in his two hundred percent in everything he did. One of his songs released as a single in between the recording and compiling of the album took the country by storm. People loved the soft romantic number immensely. Leo was in demand by the music producers, song writers and film directors even before his album reached the markets. By God's Grace he reached the dizzying heights of success and fame in the first year itself but that didn't deter Asad from his original mission. He set his plans in motion in the background while working on the next musical projects.

A throng of people walked hastily from shop to shop doing their last minute preparations for New Year Eve celebrations huddled in warm coats and boots, seeking protecting from the ice cold weather. Amongst them was Zoya who matched their pace step to step not in a hurry to finish her shopping list but to escape all the festivity around her. Unlike others she welcomed the sting of the biting cold wind on her neck as she adjusted a bag full of groceries under her arm. It made her feel a different sensation, something other than the all consuming pain in her chest.

The scent of burnt pine logs and vanilla beans welcomed her as she opened the door of her two bedroom studio apartment. It was a temporary abode. Her home was thousands of miles away, in the arms of the only man she would ever love. Zoya padded barefoot to the kitchen and kept the bags on the marble counter before moving around to switch on the coffee machine. She was in the middle of sorting out ingredients for the dinner when the doorbell chimed.

"Are you sure you're not the one bringing these for me Hadia?" Zoya asked her neighbor come collegue come best friend on finding her standing there with yet another bouquet.

"If I were to give you one, it would more likely be a bunch of forget-me-not. Do you know how worried I got when I couldn't find you at the store and nor were you answering your mobile." Hadia said dumping her bags angrily on the side cabinet.

"I'm sorry Hadia, it totally escaped my mind that you were there too." Zoya said softly. She felt guilty for having left her friend behind in her haste to return.

"You'll have to make up for it." She replied walking inside.

"Done."

"Please tell me you're not spending the night here." Hadia asked warily eyeing all the cooking stuff.

"I am."

"Oh that's great. Eesa and I were thinking of staying inside too. We'll join you."

"No."

"Then you can come over. Eesa's friends will be there too."

"No."

"Okay then only the two of us celebrate tonight."

"No, no and no. Hadia please I'll be fine by myself. Infact I need sometime alone." Zoya knew her friend was trying to help and she was grateful for her presence in her life at this point but really all she needed in this moment was solitude.

"Okay but you know where to come if you want some company, right?" Hadia asked stretching on the sofa.

"Yup. Now off you go. Don't forget to take pictures for me." She took her by hand to the door.

"You're pushing me out of your house? "

"I'm not pushing you Hadia just making you leave so that you can get ready for the party."

"It's the same thing."

"It's not."

"Will you really be okay Zoya?" The concern in Hadia's voice softened her heart a bit.

"Yes. You don't worry yourself on my account. I'll be fine. You go and enjoy your night out but remember don't go too heavy on the drinks." Zoya leaned against the door after closing it. She sighed as the carelessly discarded bouquet caught her sight. The first time she had received it was on her birthday. She had been scared and shocked in equal measures because no one knew about her birthday and surely no one was aware of her favouite flowers, not even her parents knew that bit. Later she had questioned the security on the reception but coulnd't gather anything about the anonymous sender. She couldn't bring herself to throw the delicate flowers and so had kept them.

Now it had become customary for her to receive a bouquet of pink roses with a single red rose on every special occasion. Though she was still wary about the sender and his/her intentions, it would be a lie to say that she didn't wait for it. She placed the flowers in the crystal vase she had purchased specially for them.

"Happy New Year Asad." Zoya whispered as the clock striked twelve in India marking the end of another year. A complete year had rolled by since their confession and seperation. The year had passed at an excruciatingly slow pace, each day deepening the wound in her heart a little more. Everything had been a blur for her, from reaching London to adjusting to her new surroundings until that one unexpected call to Asad. The slight tremor in his voice had squeezed her heart painfully. He had lent her courage and support while keeping a check on his own emotions. He didn't complain once over the difficulties he was facing alone, just assured her that he was doing his best to fulfill his promise. Zoya had no doubt he would come for her.

The realization that Asad was struggling just for her sake had forced her to break the spell of agony around her and do what she had come for. She had dived head first into studies and extra curricular activities and excelled in it. It left her with very little to no time for a social life and that was fine by her beacause she wasn't really a people's person. The only time she enjoyed herself truly was during her time at the orphanage she volunteered at. She had first gone there with her Professor to donate the amount collected by students of her university and had felt an instant connection with them, elders and children alike. Thus she had returned a week later with gifts and take away food only to become a part of them. Zoya helped the caretakers as much as she could during the weekends. The kids had formed an attachment with her too. Their warm smiles tugged at her heart. She could very well relate to them and hence tried her best to fill the void made by the absence of their families, if only someone was there to fill the gaping hole in her heart. Today also she was supposed to join them for the fireworks but she had excused and they understood her need to be on her for a while.

"I miss you Asad." A choked sob rose in her throat and her grip tightened on the large glass frame on her lap. It was a collage of Asad's pictures artfully done by her during her lone moments; when she desired no company other than her own and today was one of those days. She curled up on the sofa with a blanket and stared up at the white ceiling blankly, her mind playing the events from the moment she saw Asad to their last kiss at the airport. It was true that memories tortured the soul and not only the bad ones. The moments that once filled your life with love and laughter, later only brought along burning tears, yearning and heartache. After hours of turning and tossing restlessly she welcomed the dark abyss of sleep eagerly, wishing to meet her beloved in the land of dreams where no one could part them.

Zoya sat leaned against a huge canopy tree with her knees pulled up against her chest enjoying the lovely view of river James from her point of vantage. When most people opted to stay indoors or hid under umbrellas, hats and sunglasses to shield their fair skins from catching a burn from the blazing sun she had no such worry. She very much enjoyed the break from the otherwise cold unpredictable weather of London and the small smile playing on her delicate pink lips was testimony to that fact. The tangerine ball of fire was the only thing that filled her dark monotonous life with light and warmth, literally and metaphorically, apart from Hadia and her friends at the orphanage. The glittering blue water of the river and the rolling gardens around her filled her insides with a sense of calm and peacefulness which she found no where else hence she visited here as often as she could. This was her only reprieve; the place which allowed her to think freely, to reminisce her past and to daydream without any hindrance or inhibition. Three years had gone down the lane since she stepped foot on this foriegn land leaving behind everything she cherished. Each day of these years had been nothing short of a trial. She had had to fight, struggle not against anyone else but her ownself that withered and detoriated internally. At last she had done it, for her love. Even the span of time and stretch of distance between her and her beloved couldn't reduce her love or longing an ounce, it only further intensified every passing moment.

Zoya's time here might have been testing emotionally but it had been equally rewarding academically. She had aced in her chosen field of study, passed the final examinations of her degree program with flying colors and secured a job at a fashion house in India. Now she was free to go back but not ready as a hidden fear crept up squashing her wilting hope. God knew that Asad was in every breath she took, her world revolved around him; he was her only reason to live and it unsettled her immensely to ponder over the question that what if he wasn't there waiting for her anymore? She shook her head to disuade her mind from following that depressing path of thoughts.

Zoya straightened up with renewed vigour as Asad's soulful voice filled her ears when she switched on her music player. It reached the depths of her heart and reminded her of his promise, pleading her to not give up on him, on them. She would never give up. So what if he hadn't come for her till now? It proved nothing. She would go back and search for him herself. She wouldn't let anyone come in between them anymore. If anything her time over here had taught her, it was to be strong, confident and determined even in the darker hours. Hence she would fight for what was rightfully hers. She left the park to complete her packing feeling relatively serene at having put her fears to rest.

Part B.

"Pick up. Pick up. Please pick up the phone Asad." Zoya silently pleaded as the line connected but like the previous times there was no answer. She had rushed to the hotel straight from the airport upon arrival in India four days back to meet Vikram and Asad and watch his weekly performance but found none of them. John, her barista friend, informed her that Asad no longer worked or performed there and Vikram was currently out of country. Currently she was sitting in the cafe at their usual spot waiting for her order. The cafe was crowded and bustling with activity but she felt all alone. Not even the aroma of freshly brewed coffee or her favorite biscuits held any appeal for her any longer. Infact the place made her so nostalgic that she made a hasty exit, her order untouched.

The architecture of the newly constructed building left all in awe. It was an amazing amalgamation of modern and by gone years, vibrating with sophistication and deep warmth. Zoya stood there without noticing a thing of her surroundings, everything was a blur except for the metal digging in her palm.

She grasped her necklace tightly trying to block the storm of questions raising in her mind, seeking comfort in it. Today was her first day as a senior fashion designer at a reknowned fashion house, something she had always wanted but she wasn't happy because her dream wasn't fulfilled. Whenever she had imagined this day Asad was always by her side, wishing her luck with a kiss and a hug, but the reality wasn't as sweet. It was only her with nobody on her side, even her parents didn't have time to message her. All her quests for Asad came up empty leaving her perturbed as to where she stood with him but she knew one thing and that was that life distributed bitterness more than it ever did happiness. She expelled all her worries for time being with a deep breath and stepped into the building with her head held high and a smile. What she failed to comprehend were the emblazoned words on the threshold in the same italic font as her pendant. "ZA House of Couture" held the answers to all her doubts and symbolised how beautifully her past had carved itself in her present and future.

Zoya's spirits raised on receiving a warm welcome from her management and collegues. The fashion house was launching its first bridal line this season. All the designers were enthusiastic about it and were putting in their 100 % efforts. The show was just after a fortnight and hence most of the tasks had been covered before her arrival. The one thing still left was matching accessories with the costumes. Zoya happily took up this responsibilty as opportunity presented itself.

"I will not to let you down Aaiza." She said to the Head of Fashion department who insisted on being reffered by her first name.

"I'm sure you'll ace it Zoya." Aaiza said confidently.

"Now that all the points for today's meeting are covered, let's get back to work guys." She said getting up from her chair and picking up her folders.

"Roohi is an intern here and she'll be with you until you are familiar with your surroundings." Aaiza said walking down the corridor with Zoya. They waited for the lift to take them to the top floor where their work stations were situated.

"Thank you for giving me a chance Aaiza." Zoya said sincerely.

"Your welcome." She nodded and walked off.

The small smile of achievement and sense of elation vanished as soon as she opened the door of the office assigned to her. There on the table lay the same bouquet of flowers which she had received all through the three years with the addition of a card. Fear gripped her insides and made her immobile.

"Wow, aren't these beautiful?" Roohi asked excitedly brushing past her.

"Looks like you already have an admirer." She chirped with the excitement of a teenager, which she was.

"Why are you still standing there? Zoya are you alright? Why do you look so pale?" She asked running back to her hurriedly scared she might faint any moment.

"I.. How? Who? These?" Zoya couldn't string a sentence together. What seemed a major over reaction to Roohi was actually the fear of someone keeping an eye over her, no matter where she went. She should tell Asad was the first thought that crossed her mind but for that she needed to know his whereabouts.

"Please tell the reception to not receive anything on my behalf unless I say." She cut short the babbling intern and sent her off to get the files she needed. With shaking hands she picked up the card and opened the envelope.

"Best of luck." The card read. She knew what the wishes were for but it was a little disconcerting to know a stranger was keeping tabs on you. Seeing how charmed her assistant was with the flowers, she decided to give it to her. The card she would keep for any future occassion, which she hoped never arose. With eyes closed she blindly searched for her mobile in her purse and tapped in the password hoping against hope to find an answer to one of her calls or messages.

"Where are you Asad?" Zoya whispered in a broken voice to his picture on her wallpaper on not finding anything.

"I'm waiting for you. Please come back." She pressed the mobile to her chest and breathed deeply till she got her bearings back. The rest of the day passed quickly with her reading, recording, assessing and sketching files.

The delicious smell of food welcomed everyone warmly as they gathered in the canteen for lunch. Zoya was present there too. It had been a few days since she started working at 'ZA House of Couture' and had formed an easy camaraderie with her fellow workers. Everyone was so kind and supportive that she found it hard to decline whenever they approached her for lunch and today was one of those days when she had been enticed to join them on the pretext of a very happening news. Happening it definitely must be, she mused silently looking around her as the canteen buzzed with excitement. Everyone seemed more chipper and energetic.

"Mr. DS is returning." Roohi giggled in response when she raised an eyebrow in question.

"Mr. DS?" She said with a frown.

"Mr. DS. Mr. Dreamy smile. You haven't met because he was out of country. He's coming back after two days for the event."

"Oh." She failed to understand what was so great about this but smiled for her assistant's benefit.

"He has the most dreamy smile ever. When he smiles two adorable dimples dent his sculpted cheeks, his eyes are so expressive, his.." Roohi went on describing the physical attributes of Mr. DS but Zoya had zoned out after the second sentence as a vivid memory of someone with the same features played in her mind.

"Zoya stood under the thick canopy of trees as it drizzled, thoroughly enjoying the beautiful weather. It would have been picture perfect if only she had someone to share this sight with her. With a sigh she observed the nature keenly drawing inspiration from it. So immersed was she in her thoughts that she missed Asad joining her until he blew in her ear from behind startling her. They enjoyed the pleasant atmosphere in a companionable silence, it was always like this between them. They didn't require words to communicate, their eyes and hearts did all the talking. Zoya shook her head as Asad beckoned her to come out under the open sky. Her lips stretched into a smile as he pouted before closing his eyes and spreading his arms out, inhaling the earthly sweet scent of the ground which enveloped the surroundings. Her heart lurched at the heartwarming picture he made. She longed to join him and dance to the tune of pitter patter of the rain. Asad looked at her directly as if reading her mind and tugged at her wrist making her stumble into his hold.

"Asad nooo." Zoya spoke over the sound of cascading water and hid her face in his chest suddenly feeling cold. Laughing he spanned a hand on her waist and entwining the other with her swayed them to the rhythm of the drops. She pulled apart just enough to see him. Asad's azure eyes shone with warmth and affection whereas a dazzling dimpled smile adorned his lips. He was a sight to behold. Picture perfect."

"Earth to Zoya." Aaiza nudged jostling her out of her reverie.

"Hey when did you come?" She asked sheepishly.

"When you were busy dreaming of Mr. A." Her cheeks flushed as Aaiza signalled towards the necklace dangling around her neck.

"I.. I wasn't. I was listening to Roohi telling me about Mr. DS." She fumbled with the words as her friend gave her a knowing look.

"Mr. DS. Whose that?" Aaiza asked confusedly.

"You don't know? He's Mr. Dreamy Smile aka our CEO." Zoya replied.

"Oh." Aaiza replied eyeing the girls with narrowed eyes.

"You've met him right?" She asked unaware of the glare.

"Yes."

"But you don't seem quiet taken with him. Why? Is he not as handsome as these girls said?" She joked not recognizing the pleading looks directed towards her.

"He is. He's my brother." That statement made her eyes widen and mouth drop open. She looked sideways at her juniors and found them fumbling with the cutlery or the food on their plates.

"I.. I didn't know. I'm.."

"It's okay Zoya." Aaiza chuckled thinking of what her reaction would be when she met her brother.

Zoya sat on a high chair near her work station, her face scrunched in concentration as she highlighted the finer details of the last sketch. She had successfully completed all her designs but the real credit went to Aaiza who made it possible for to finish her assignment on time. She had given her ample resources including labour and finance. Zoya's hand stopped midstroke as a gentle breeze carrying the enchanting smell of her love enveloped her. She stared at the huge mirror in front of her as the sensation of being watched rose goosebumps on her body. Asad. Her palm enclosed around the pendant as her heart whispered longingly. There hardly seemed to be a moment when she didn't miss him. Closing her eyes with a cold sigh she tried to divert her mind back to work. She had taken up jewelry making as a hobby during her time abroad. It gave her a challenge to do something new and creative and to direct her energy towards a positive task instead of dwelling over the past or future.

"Wow Zoya, you're too good at this." Aaiza said appreciating the sketch.

"I needed to update you with the events details." She added guardedly noticing the somber expression on her face.

"After all the costumes have been showcased we'll have Leo, The Rockstar, perform for us live. It'll be the first time ever that he appears before the public, so far he has kept his identity hidden, so you can imagine the tremendous hype around this. Only selected media personnel will be allowed to attend to avoid any mishap." All this information only dragged a nod from Zoya making Aaiza pause for a while.

"The other thing is that our CEO has decided to present his designed attire at the event too and he has chosen you to model it."

"What? Are you crazy? How can I do that? I'm not a model. You will have to select someone else because I'm for sure not doing this." Well this bit seeped through her guards and made her react.

"I'm sorry Zoya, I can't help you in this. It's the Boss's order. Anyway you have nothing to fear, I'm here for you na."

"I want to meet the Boss. I will talk to him myself." She said determinedly.

"No use arguing, the decision is final. The conference room number 3 is cleared for us so let's meet there after an hour to practice." Aaiza left the room hurriedly not giving her a chance to retort.

It was the day of the fashion show and needless to say that Zoya was a bundle of nerves. How she got through supervising the first half of it was beyond her. Handing over the responsibilty to a collegue she now made her way to the dressing room to get ready. She rubbed her arms up and down as the feeling of being watched combined with her intuition that something was going to happen, good or bad was left on time to prove but that didn't mean that she didn't think about it. Truth be said she had pondered over the matter in every spare moment. Before she could delve further into it the make up artist ushered her to the dressing room.

An hour later she stood staring at the beautiful bride in the wall length mirror. Zoya smiled as everyone in the room praised her. She couldn't believe the reflection looking back at her was of her ownself. She had to applaud the artists who had done a fabulous job with her hair and make up and not to forget the spectacular dress to make her appear a million bucks because that's how far it all went. She might look pretty but within a storm was brewing, silently promising to wreck everything in its path. The dress was simply every bride's dream. Dream. Desire. Love. Asad. Her heart squeezed painfully as she took in her appearance carefully. She would have dolled up for him just like this on their big day in Red, the colour of love, her love's favorite colour. How unfortunate was she that neither was this her day nor was she accompanied by her love. Her hand involuntarily went to her pendant, a reminder of her time with Asad, something she would never part with till her last breath.

"You're next Zoya. Let's get you to the back stage." Aaiza said breaking her thoughts.

"You look gorgeous Zoya. Your Prince Charming awaits you, impatiently if I must add." She said adjusting her dupatta.

"What do you mean?" She questioned warily.

"Hush. Don't worry too much. Just put one foot in front of the other. Breathe in. Breathe out. Smile and voila, you'll reach your destination. They're announcing your name. Go now." Aaiza guided her to the curtains and left kissing her cheek. Zoya was so caught up in understanding the underlying meaning of her words and her own emotions that she missed the introduction. She was pleasantly surprised to see the romp filled with flower petals and balloons as soon as she set a foot on stage. This must be Aaiza's idea for the final performance, she explained to her thudding heart. She tilted her head up an inch and put up the brightest smile she could without looking fake and walked amidst the loud cheers and flashes.

"We've reached the last and most awaited part of this event. Yes, no more wait." Aaiza laughed as the crowd shouted excitedly.

"Ladies and gentlemen I now present to you all the man behind the biggest musical hits of this decade. Our very own RockStar, the Sensational Leo."

"Meri bechanion ko

chain mil jaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye.."

The melodious voice of Leo echoed throughout the hall and entranced the audience. Zoya's heart stopped beating for a moment as her brain registered the sound. She might not be able to see in the darkness but she would recognize this voice even in unconciousness.

"Mere deewanepan ko

sabr mil jaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye."

What might be just lyrics to others to Zoya it was the sound of love which resonated through her blood bringing her alive.

"Zikr tumhara jab jab hota hai

dekho na aankhon se

bheega bheega pyaar beh jata hai."

Her Love beckoned her in his endearing way to turn towards him, to return to him.

"Main raat din yeh dua karun

tere liye main jiyoon maroon

charon peher tujhe dekha karun

mera jahan ye tujh pe fanaa karun

zikr tumhara jab jab hota hai

dekho na honton pe tera ehsaas reh jata hai."

The audience went crazy seeing the face of the man they admired for his beautiful voice and melodious compositions as the lights switched on. Leo was none other than Asad Ahmed Khan, CEO of ZA House of Couture. What they didn't know was that the inspiration behind all the heart touching lyrics, his passion and reason to live stood there immobile, turned away from him. He covered the distance bewteen them while expressing his emotions to her in the only way he knew.

"Mere har raaste ko

manzil mil jaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye."

Zoya choked on her breath as his voice mirrored her yearning. She squeezed her eyes tightly as he stopped just behind her. Even without touching his warmth and essence, which she craved all these years, embraced her soul. A sob escaped her mouth as he kissed the back of her head finishing the line.

"Asad." Zoya whimpered as he ran his fingers down her arm in a loving caress and entwined them with her hand. She gasped and ducked her head as he stepped in front of her bringing her palm to rest on his heart that beat in sync with hers.

"Bairan hawaain mujhe na jaane

de gayi sada kyun abhi abhi

hai sarfaroshi yeh aashiqui bhi

jaye gi jaan meri is mein kabhi

zikr tumhara jab jab hota hai

dekho na har lamha teri daastaan

keh jata hai."

He placed a finger under her chin to lift her face to his yearning gaze. He sucked in a sharp breath seeing his love up close after a long separation. The last two days he had only seen her on cameras installed in the office.

"Meri har tadap ko sukoon mil jaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye

tera chehra jab nazar aaye."

He sang willing her to open her eyes, to look at him once and open she did. In that moment the world faded for them and so did the madly cheering audience as the song came to its end. All that existed were the two of them. No words were exchanged. Their moist eyes spoke of their anguish, pain, longing and everything they beared without each other in a language known only to their hearts. For how long they stood frozen on that spot was unknown to them and so was the sudden silence that had fallen around or the audience watching their interaction with piqued curiosity.

Asad wiped the lone tear that rolled down Zoya's rosy cheek and shook his head firmly, his eyes promising her the end of the days filled with darkness and despair. The lights went off as he clicked his fingers and the entire roof lit up with hundreds of fairy lights transforming the entire venue into a star studded night.

"I love you Zoya. I've only ever loved you and pledge to love you for as long as I breathe and beyond." Without a moments hesitation Asad was on his knee in front of Zoya with right hand on his heart making her eyes widen in surprise.

"I'm sorry to have made you wait so long. I'm sorry.. for everything." He said in a voice thick with emotions. His heart squeezed in pain everytime he thought of her facing hurdles all alone. He would fight the world if need be but wouldn't let her go away from him, not this time and not for a moment.

"I offer myself to you with a heart which beats only for you and a soul that's incomplete without you. My love for you increases and intensifies every second. I'm yours, for eternity." He confessed his love once again. The intensity of his gaze and words took her breath away. Her hand flew to her mouth as he pulled out a black velvet box from his pocket.

"I'm nothing without you Zoya. You're my only reason to live. I want you as my best friend, my lover, my soulmate, my better half. Will you give me the honor of becoming my wife? Will you be mine Zoya?"

Zoya felt lightheaded and swayed lightly as he spoke. She couldn't believe the day of which she dreamed each night had at last arrived and it was nothing like her dreams. For the first time in her life reality was much more better and sweeter than dreams which were her sanctuary in Asad's absence; the only place where she was allowed to be with him freely. A stunning ring with an emerald gemstone set amidst diamonds sparkled brightly as he flicked open the cover and looked up at her expectantly. Zoya opened and closed her mouth repeatedly trying to form a sentence but it was as if all her senses had deserted her. Seeing him get restless her mind drifted back to the day they had confessed their love for the first time. He had taken her silence as rejection. She didn't want him to think like that again. Only God was aware of how much she wanted to be his, in every sense of the word.

"Yes." She managed to whisper. Asad's orbs which were the color of turbulent waves cleared and shone just like the ocean on a sunny day. The dimples which she adored so much marked their presence as he beamed with delight. He kissed her knuckles after making her wear the ring.

"I love you." He said huskily standing up and drawing her close to himself.

"I love you too." She whispered emotionally.

"I love you both sooo much." An extremely excited Aaiza said taking them both in a surprise bear hug and breaking their bubble.

"Thank you my little one." Asad kissed her forehead and wrapped an arm around her waist.

"Zoya meet Aaiza, my sister. She and Zack have been my rock all these years." He said to a bewildered Zoya.

"Explanations can wait Bhai. You both go now."

"Asaaad." Zoya yelped fisting his jacket as he picked her up bridal style and carried her out of the hall amidst whistles and cheers.

Asad crossed the threshold of his new house with Zoya still in his arms. The living room was bathed in warm shades of gold as he switched on the dimmers with his elbow. He waited for her eyes to adjust to the lighting before making her stand on the floor covered with heart shape balloons. Zoya stared around, her mouth agape with incredulity at the sight in front of her. The whole room was filled with bouquets of flowers and they weren't just any flowers, they were exactly the same ones she always received, pink and red roses.

"Asad..?" She said gesturing towards the flowers, her chest heaving as she strained to breathe. She didn't know whether to cry or smile as nodded his head in reply. All these years she believed herself to be alone whereas the reality was different. Despite all the physical distances between them Asad had found a way to be there for her and even made the important days of her life special, just as he had promised. She turned around to seek some answers but her breath got stuck in her throat on seeing him look at her with an intensity that set her senses sizzle with awareness.

"Don't move Zoya, let me look at you." He said stopping her from turning around. It was now only that he was taking in her appearance. Earlier on he was too fixed on professing his love and claiming her as his in front of the world. She was a vision to see and behold in a crimson red lehenga with gold embellishments and motifs and adorned with jewels. Asad walked towards her in a daze and cupped her face in one palm traced her features so tenderly with his fingers. She gasped seeing fear swirl in the depths of his orbs as if scared she would vanish in thin air if he applied even a little pressure.

"Asad." Zoya whispered his name. His eyes shut as she pressed a kiss on his jaw standing on her tiptoes. He wrapped an arm around her petite waist and pulled her flush against him. He leaned down and kissed the hollow of her neck making her draw a sharp breath. He traced an upward path with soft, gentle kisses making warmth blossom within her. By the time he reached her lips she was dizzy with desire. Asad looked at her lovingly as her cheeks had turned a beautiful shade of red. He tilted her head up and placed his warm lips over hers, unmoving, savoring the moment of being reunited with her on more than one level. Zoya's hand travelled up his arm feeling his muscles and the intricate pattern of tattoos before threading through the hair at the nape of his neck and tugging at them. He obliged and kissed her deeply. Even with there eyes closed darkness evaded them. All they saw were the colors of their love melting away all their agony, worries and pain transporting them to a universe where only they and their love existed.

"I love you so much Asad." Zoya verbalised the only emotion running through her veins as they parted to take in oxygen.

"I love you too Meri Jaan, raised to infinity." He said huskily and sealed it with a kiss; an unsaid promise of their happy beginnings.

Res for Sis, Choco, IBP, Mayur, Asif Bhai, Jass, Chillichick, Annie, PriyaCherry, Abi, V, Anopama, Ammy, Prinky, Binuu, Aju, Muskaan, Allwaysasya, Sasir, San and Fatima for always encouraging me with their comments.