#2 - AsYa FF: Mohabbatein - Part 28 - Page 130 - 31/01/18! A/N Pg 132! - Page 71

Later that night:

Despite her efforts to hurriedly escape them it seemed that no matter how hard she tried to get away Sameer and his friends seemed to get only that much closer. His friend spilling his alcoholic beverage on the docks they were standing on and Sameer holding up a flame which Zoya's eyes were fixated upon and which were the reason behind the beads of perspiration on her forehead. Zoya kept backtracking her steps trying to get away from him and his flame, and his fast-growing sleazy smile but it only grew as did the realization that he had her trapped now, she had no way out, nowhere to go and no one was coming to her rescue. Zoya too was looking all around for help but she was all alone on the deserted beach in the dark hours of the night when generally there was no sign of life anywhere around in Kasauli. Except when she looked to the right she saw Asad standing there and the hope that filled her heart in that moment was inexplainable. It was unimaginable relief. She began to smile through her tears knowing that as long as Asad was around no harm could befall her, her knight in shining armour would always be there to save her from harms way. But just as Zoya spotted him, in her relief she didn't watch out before stepping back and by mistake she stepped off the dock behind herself and began falling into the ocean behind her. Her arms flailed about desperately and looking back she turned towards Asad and held out her hand to him waiting for him to grab it but instead of his readily waiting arms to help him she was met with the coldest look in his eyes she had ever seen, a look of utter disgust and Zoya felt her insides fill with the same disgust and loathing for herself as she saw in his eyes. Like she truly was a cheap girl who deserved the harassment that came her way, that being stalked and harassed by Sameer and his friends was her own fault, she invited that trouble upon herself due to her vulgar' and cheap' dressing and behaviour. She felt herself falling and Asad just stood there watching her angrily and disgustedly as she continued to fall, and just as the scream of Mr.Khan' escaped her lips in her dream, did it in real life too and she shot up in her bed sweating and frightened, her face pale as a ghost from her nightmare which felt unimaginably real. It took all of 3 seconds from the second she screamed to Asad come crashing through her room panicked and worried, followed by an equally panicked Zeenat, Anwar and Dilshad (Aisha was at the hospital).

Zeenat - (fell unto the bed next to her grabbing her ice cold, pale but full of perspiration face and turned it towards her but Zoya's eyes remained unfocused and dazed, she herself remained disoriented) Zoya...Zoya! Zoe look at me, beta..(Zoya looked towards her but her eyes still remained unfocused even whilst Zeenat stroked her hair back) Koi baat nahin, kuch nahin hua. You're safe. You're home. Sirf ek bura sapna tha (but Zoya still remained dazed, her eyes fearful and scared)

Asad - Bhabi..(hearing his voice Zoya's entire body erupted with goosebumps and not because of the usual reasons and the transgressions her heart was committing lately but because her nightmare was still fresh on her mind) paani..(handing her the glass of water he had just run out to grab. Zoya still avoided his eyes afraid to see the same disgust she had seen in them in her nightmare. She didn't know why but the possibility of seeing that disgust in his eyes made her heart ache so terribly. She grabbed the water from Zeenat with shaky hands and chugged it down desperately. Thankfully by the time she finished drinking it she was able to catch her breathe a little and some colour and warmth returned to her skin)

Zeenat - (taking the glass from her and again stroking her hair) Kya huwa Zoya? What's wrong.

Zoya - (shook her head) nothing Aapi it was just a bad dream.

Dilshad - Mujhe yaad hai tumhe pehle bhi aise hi ek bura khawab aaya tha (Zeenat looked worriedly between her and Zoya hearing that) kya baat hai Zoya tumhe aise burre khawab kyun aate hain?

Zoya - (shook her head) it's nothing Phupi. It was just a bad dream I'm sorry maine aap sabko aapki neend se disturb kiya (avoiding eye contact with them all, she hurried out of bed) aap log so jayee. I'm fine...it was just a bad dream. I'm going to go back to bed too. (Avoiding eye contact with all of them she slipped into her slippers and rushed into the bathroom after grabbing a shiny object from underneath her pillow. Feeling a panic attack coming on and she knew that wouldn't go away until she could feel that blade buried sharp in her wrist, and so that's just what she did with her wide, crazed and tear filled eyes fixated on her wrist as she fell to the floor of her bathroom falling apart each blood drop at a time)

Anwar - (seeing Zeenat's crestfallen and worried face, rubbed a soothing hand unto her shoulder) Zeenat don't worry..it was just a bad dream that's all...fikar karne ki koi zaroorat nahin hai. (But Asad just like Zeenat was not so easily convinced. He walked out of her room just remembering back to her strange reaction back at the beach upon seeing those guys, and the very similar nightmare she had once before too, there was just something about her eyes, the haunted look in them that worried him because it was a look he knew all too well. It was the same look that stared back at him each time he looked into the mirror)

Half an hour later - Backyard:

Zoya was tracing and retracing the fresh cut on her arm, her eyes wet, dwelling in dark depression. When suddenly, ironically, the light in her darkness, her knight in shining armour's arm extended forward holding chocolate milkshake from her favourite sweet shop in town. The deliciousness of which she had eaten Asad's ear off boasting about since she had met him. Zoya was stunned. A) because it was 2:00 am and the sweet shop closed at 6 and B) to find Asad by her side when she needed someone the most but was too stubborn to admit it. Finding him by her side lessened her pain, worry and fear from earlier coaxing her into believing that it was just a nightmare but the resemblance it held to reality was uncanny and she knew somewhere deep down Asad did think the same about her (more like he once did)

Asad - the world's most expensive milkshake. Please naa mat kariyega you don't know the strings I had to pull to get this glass full of sugar for you.

Zoya - (stared at him surprised) but...Mr. Khan you didn't need to (taking it from him) how did you?

Asad - (looked around for a chair or something and then tried to analyze the cleanliness of the bridge in the dark but upon not finding anything he took a seat on the small bridge next to her, but he didn't dip his feet into the water like she did) You're welcome.

Zoya - (staring at the milkshake dimly) right...thank you.

Asad - (watching her stare at the cup but not drink from it and the sadness on her face did not gel well with Asad, EVER) (Asad Ahmed Khan's attempt of cheering someone up) pata hai Ms. Farooqui, problems toh sabki life mein hoti hain..par iska matlab yeh thori hi hai ke aap muskurana hi band kardoge

Zoya - (rolled her eye's looking at him even though her dimples threatened to peek out at his dorkiness, although she appreciated him and his effort both regardless of how pathetic and lame they were) meri hi lines mujhe suna rahe hain aap.

Asad - (his dimples too threatened to peek out) haan, lekin iss mein ek addition hai. Woh addition yeh hai ke aggar aap apni problems kissi ke saath share kareingi..toh aapka mann halka ho jayega. (Zoya's sad eyes snapped up to his desperate one's and he gave her a sincere nod letting her know he was here, and that he meant it)

Zoya - Kuch nahin Mr. Khan...I'm fine.

Asad - (sighed, irritated by her stubbornness) okay, let's try that again. What happened at the beach (Zoya looked at him paling again and Asad knew he had struck the right nerve)

Zoya - (stuttering) what'd you mean?

Asad - (frowned) Right before we left you spotted those guys there and your behaviour immediately changed. You were scared and panicked and- (Zoya's eyes darted around desperately, wondering what to say? Should she fess up? It could all be over tonight. All she had to do was say one word to Asad and she knew he would take care of the whole thing, she trusted him too but then again her jeeju's death was still fresh in her mind) is there something I should know. Do you know those guys..are they troubling you

Zoya - (opened her mouth, and the words just fell right out, surprising her too) Nahin..(shook her head) it's just that, mujhe bachpan se aise khawb aate hain..ke ek open ground hai...jiss mein aag laggi hai...aur main uss aag mein phassi hui hoon...charoon taraf bas aag hai (partially the truth) (tears falling from her eyes, her voice breaking) I don't know why Mr. Khan but...(shook her head) wahan beach pe bhi jaise maine behave kiya...woh..that's because of fire not..(and then her voice shook, as she closed her eyes unable to confess, unable to find the heart to put Asad's life in danger) not the boys, they had a bonfire going aur Mujhe aag se bauhat dar lagta hai..

Asad - (frowned confusedly but bought it) lekin aapki zindagi mein kabhi aisa kuch-

Zoya - (shook her head) nahin aur aggar hua bhi toh tab hua jab main bauhat choti thi.

Asad - Haan par kissi ne aapko iske baare mein bataya toh hoga? aapke parents ne?

Zoya - (her sad eyes and sad smile turned to his face, the moment of truth, since meeting him there were countless moments when he brought up her parent's to taunt her, ridicule her or criticize her and in those moments she wanted nothing more than to scream the truth she was gearing up to tell him now and see his ego fall apart, the guilt the shame the embarrassment on his face but she always backtracked not finding him worth it. Today she was telling him not to ridicule or shame him although that would be a side effect regardless but because it felt right) mujhe apne parent's theek se yaad nahin hain..main bachpan se akeli hoon main bauhat choti thi jab maine apni ammi ko kho diya (and she couldn't look at the shock, disbelief, embarrassment and guilt in his eyes nor did she want him seeing her tears so she looked away too as she felt her voice break again) Apne Abbu ka toh main naam bi nahin jaanti Mr. Khan..maine unhe kabhi nahin dekha. Mujhe abhi kuch arsa pehle pata chala ke woh zinda hain...aur yahin India mein..Kasauli mein hain. (Shook her head wiping her tears away, as did Asad too...the guilt eating him up, making him want to drown in a pool of his own shame) main bhi kitni stupid hoon...kuch purani photographs leke unhe yahan akeli unhe dhoondne agayee hoon...Aapi se, Ayaan Aahil..Arsalan bhai sabse jhoot bol rahee hoon..sabse larke yahan reh rahee hoon (and Asad's guilt only grew with each word remembering all the times he made her feel unwelcome, taunted her about living here or made his displeasure of her stay clear) unhe dhoondne ke liye...aur ab tak bas dhoond hi rahee hoon. Main nahin jaanti Mr. Khan ke woh mujhe milleingi bhi ya nahin aur agar mileinge toh mujhe accept kareinge yah (and her heart broke and the tears fell freely as she voiced that very real and very dark fear out loud for the first time)

Asad - (cleared his throat and wiped his eyes) aur aapki ammi?

Zoya - (looked towards him, confused if she was imagining the wetness around his eyes or was it actually there) Ammi bhi mujhe theek se yaad nahin hain bauhat choti thi main jab maine unhe kho diya..(stared hard at the milkshake again) aapko patah hai Mr. khan main kabhi apni ammi ki kabar par nahin gayee kyunki main jaanti hi nahin hoon ke unki kabar kahan hai...kahan dafnaya gaya meri Ammi ko.

Asad - (covered his face with his hand, his jaw tensed and taut with tension, his heartbreaking for the girl next to him unable to imagine how anyone let alone such a pure soul could be given so much grief and that just increased his anger and issues with god. However he took this opportunity to get some answers of his own, answers to questions that were driving him crazy since he first found out about them) so...how are you, I mean..(but Zoya's imploring and encouraging eyes helped him get the words out, fight his battles, as they meshed with his) how are you related to Ayaan and..his family?

Zoya - (smiled) Aapi and me were in the same foster home in the states. She married Ayaan's youngest chachu (Asad frowned, not recalling Ayaan having a younger chachoo, as far as he knew Ayaan's father was the youngest of his brothers) When Aapi and Jeeju got married they legally adopted me and I became a part of their family (sighed sadly as her eyes filled with fresh tears, remembering her desperateness of wanting to be loved but only finding rejection in the hearts of the elders of that family) unfortunately aside from his nephews his family wasn't as accepting and after jeeju's death I just wasn't welcomed there any longer. (Asad took a deep breath to calm his anger, his hatred and annoyance with the elders of that house only mounting. He would crush them)

Zoya - (stared out across Asad's vast property) jaante hain Mr. khan maine yeh baat aaj tak kissi se nahin kahi..kyunki mujhe lagga hi nahin ke koi yeh baat samajh sakta hai..par aaj aapse yeh sab share kiya maine..shayad iss liye kyunki mujhe laga ke aap samajh sakte hain. (Although it made Asad feel special and warm it scared him too and so he retracted the hand that had shot out to comfort her and reassure her that everything would be okay, and instead he got up and silently and stealthily walked away without Zoya realizing because he was a pro at that and as Zoya felt the loss of warmth just as she turned around expecting and needing a hug she was left rather stunned by his coldness)

Zoya - (muttered angrily under her breath, not quite wanting his "expensive milkshake which was still making her smile at his dorkiness) Main Mr. Khan ko kabhi nahin samajh sakti (he could spend thousands, and waste time irritating chefs and employees of restaurants to get milkshakes to do the cheering up and comforting instead of saying it'll be okay' & I'm here' or giving a hug)

xxx

The Next Morning - Asha's Cafe:

Asad walked into the cafe along with Jay, talking "business. However, once they crossed the threshold of the cafe and Jay and Sheila set eyes on one another there was no use of Asad talking because Jay only had eyes for Sheila and she him, their smiles which reached their eyes contagious.

Asad - and lemme know how it turns out k. No more than 5 of you, you Ayaan, Sahil Anand and Roy got it? (Upon hearing nothing he looked towards Jay and found him staring at Sheila with googly eyes and it made him roll his eyes to the millionth galaxy and back)

Asad - earth to Jay (staring at him with a raised and annoyed eyebrow and straight face, his arms crossed against his chest) JAY (Jay snapped out of it)

Jay - Yah...Yah sorry you were saying?

Asad - (shook his head in disbelief) you know what (scratching his head) go...just, go (Jay's smile only magnified, it seemed he could kiss Asad over Shiela in that second)

Jay - You sure boss?

Asad - Yah..(and without wasting another second Jay ran off to Sheila and gathered her in his arms making Asad roll his eyes and mutter an irritated "couples underneath his breath) is Zoya in Sheila?

Sheila - (engrossed with Jay) in the kitchen (and not wanting to see anymore of them being nauseatingly sweet together he walked away to the kitchen, where Zoya was "doing more like "breaking the dishes)

Asad - (walking into the kitchen) it's 10:00 Ms. Farooqui...you ready to go? I have to get back to work by noon (Zoya heard him and immediately began doing the dishes louder, purposely banging them together making him frown. It seemed the louder he got she got twice as louder until he was standing right next to her and she was avoiding looking at him or responding. Asad kind of got the hint that she was mad at him and wasn't talking to him, but he really couldn't think of any reason for her doing so. Finally, when she didn't respond and picked up the dishes and began walking away Asad sped walk ahead of her blocking her path and making her roll her eyes as he began walking backwards before her hurriedly, trying to keep up with her angry and hurried steps.

Asad - did you not hear me? I said Ammi asked us to have lunch with her and Malik uncle at Ada Designs, so we could talk about this charity gig-

Zoya - (speaking in a loud irritated voice) I heard you the first time k. Behri nahin hoon main.

Asad - (frowned) what's wrong with you, aap aise kyun pesh aa rahee hain? Maine kuch ghalat kiya hai kya?

Zoya - (appalled, the AUDACITY of this man) ME! What's wrong with ME! Pehle aap batayee what's wrong with you you EMOTIONALLY CHALLENGED MAN. (But Asad just stared at her dumbfounded not having any idea what she was talking about) main ab tak yakeen nahin kar sakti Mr. Khan ke aap aisa kaise kar sakte hain. (Her hurt eyes immediately filling with tears and her voice breaking) Aap jaante hain Mr. Khan maine yeh baat aaj tak kissi se share nahin ki thi magar phir bhi maine aapse share ki kyunki mujhe laga ke kahin na kahin aap samajh sakte hain (realization sunk into Asad. So that's what she was mad about, it was justified but he wasn't going to explain himself to her...no way. That was against the "rules) par aapne kya kiya? Aap wahan se chale gaye (wiping her tears) good. Aisa kar sakte hain aap, kyunki aapke dil mein seena nahin itna bara pathar hai.

Asad - uhm (scratching his forehead) Ms. Farooqui aap ghalat bol gayeen, seene mein dil hota hai. Dil mein seena nahin hota.

Zoya - (crossing her arms and standing there before him like a stubborn defiant child) whatever. (and then just as quickly anger set in) Fault toh aap nikaleinge hi kyunki aapko sab mein fault nazar aati hai..but strangely aap KHUD MEIN fault nahin dekh sakte (and just as Asad was about to say something she yanked the tray of dishes she had set on the counter back, almost crushing under their weight and began taking off talking as she walked off) please Mr. Khan mujhe aapse koi baat nahin karni..aur aapki koi baat nahin sunni

Asad - Ms. Farooqui meri baat toh - (but he was only met with the sound of the doors of the kitchen banging shut together, and he sighed turning around, but then he nearly jumped startled as Zoya's loud voice returned to the room as did her feisty eyes and angry face)

Zoya - Aap baat kar rahe the main challi gayee aapko kaisa lagga? Bura laga na. Very good. You deserve that! (She was about to leave but she stopped last minute and seeing his crisp white shirt and her dirty hands she couldn't resist. She wiped them on his shoulders leaving his mouth hanging agape in shock and flipped her hair storming out of there. Asad remained frozen in shock for several minutes as he stared down at himself covered in water and god knows what other dirt)

Asad - (shook his head) surrounded by children I swear to god (lucky for Zoya he took comfort in the fact that he had a jacket in the car but in all fairness, anyone else in Zoya's position would be dead meat right about now if they dared to pull such a stunt with him.)

xxx

Pheonix Security:

Asad and Zoya walked up the path to the small security agency office but by the entrance they were met with an important looking man in a suit, evidently the manager whom Zoya spoke with last night.

Manager - Uhm, can I help you?

Zoya - (beat Asad to speaking, something which he was obviously not happy about or in favour of. He side eyed her monitoring her every word) Yes, hello aap yahan ke manager hain (the manager nodded) Sir, hello I'm Zoya we spoke on the phone last night.

Manager - (thought about it) phone, Oh, the girl with the grandfather story (Zoya's eyes lit up as he recognized her but when he called her story, a story with laughter in his eyes she narrowed her eyes at him and looked towards Asad in disbelief expecting some sort of defence from him but she found the same laughter in his eyes as he shook hands with the manager)

Asad - Hi, Asad Ahmed Khan.

Manager - Nice to meet you. Well Mr. Khan you're right on time Raghu Singh, jinke paas hamari facility mein woh training hai...he was just about to go for his lunch break.

Zoya - Uhm..kahan milleinge woh humme-

Manager - He's right out back leading some training exercise (Zoya without saying anything took off, marching determinedly and Asad against his better judgement had to let her go but kept one eye on her nonetheless, not trusting her and generally worrying about her, having no control over his own fears and need to protect)

Asad - waise what kind of services do you offer here?

Manager - Well we provide security personnel's upon contractual basis for any and every need you may have whether it be permanent hiring of security officers as security protocol for individuals or family, or property security, events and parties whatever have you (Asad nodded along). We're actually the largest security agency in Kasauli and provide Security to all the most elite personnels and events in Kasauli including the Sharma's, Khanna's (and he rambled on for quite a bit)

5 Minutes Later:

A pensive and pondering Asad turned the corner of the building to go join Zoya hoping she hadn't gotten into too much trouble but he was surprised to find her crouching by the side wall, spying on the back grounds where Raghu Singh was leading the training exercises holding up a large piece of broken wood. He reached up to her, frowning wondering what the hell she was up to and Zoya jumped.

Zoya - (loud whispered) Mr. KHAN! Kahan reh gaye the aap.

Asad - (stared between her and raghu singh) yeh kya kar rahee hain aap?

Zoya - Shh..Raghu Singh iss waqt udhar dekh raha hai..hum peeche se attack karte hain-

Asad - (grabbed the stick) Ms. Farooqui..hum aisa kuch nahin kareinge. Iss baar aap koi garbar nahin kareingi hum koi scene nahin create kareinge..don't forget all these men are armed and if Raghu Singh is the shooter he could be dangerous. So that means (tossing the wood away) ke aap faltu mein herogiri nahin kareingi..(he turned back around to be met with Zoya's feisty and annoyed expressions)

Zoya - Fine, TAKE ALL THE FUN AWAY.

Asad - FUN? You find this fun?

Zoya - Yah..we're about to catch a real life shooter here.

Asad - potential shooter..don't forget abhi humme sirf shak hai we have no proof.

Zoya - Oh yah (and then the look that Asad was deadly scared of, that determined look which no one could undo but always lead to some trouble returned to her eyes and just before Asad could warn her against doing whatever stupid act she was about too Zoya took off running at full speed towards Raghu Singh and as a result so did Asad)

Asad - (loud whispering) Ms. Farooqui don't. Ms. Farooqui STOP...MS. FAROOQUI (but Zoya paid no heed, she didn't listen., he only rested once she had done what she set out to do, as always, she ran right up to Raghu Singh and pushed him from behind, letting him trip over his own feet)

Raghu - BLOODY BITCH- (Asad and Zoya both stared at him in shock. They came knowing that it could be a long stretch that this was the actual shooter but now that they realized it was him, they stood stunned. Asad's hand clenched into a fist and he saw red, his mind blinded with fury. This man standing right before him in this very second was responsible for hurting his mother and now that Asad knew only God could save Raghu from Asad's wrath. Raghu at first stood surprised wondering who had pushed him and why but then doing a double take of Zoya's face recognition set in and seeing both Asad and Zoya's furious faces he knew that they had put the mystery together and recognized him as the man who broke into their house and shot their mother and so for every patient step Asad took towards him he took one very scared highly frightened one, planning his escape. Boy did Razia owe him for this. Lucky for him and unfortunately for them Raghu remained calm enough to analyze his surroundings and use it to his advantage but Asad was too furious too listen, see or think straight. So, given the exact right moment without warning Raghu turned around and made a run for it. Asad although surprised, ran right after him and Zoya too ran after Asad. Asad was able to catch up to him in no time but again Raghu had taken advantage of his surroundings and so at the exact right moment he jumped over the train-tracks and just as Asad reached there the train came rushing towards him and Asad just barely managed to stay clear of it. He threw out his elbow purposely so Zoya collided into it and fell back and didn't collided into the train and due to the force of rushing to a stop at once he too fell back unto the grass, disappointed.

Asad - (pulled Zoya's hair away from her dace lying next to her on the grass) you okay? (Relieved to see Zoya nod)

Zoya - ab Kya Kareinge Mr. Khan?

xxx

Ada Designs - that afternoon:

Asad - (pacing agitatedly and worriedly) she wasn't scheduled for an afternoon shift? Are you sure? No..nothing to worry about. Thanks Sheila (shut the phone angrily, massaging his forehead angrily)

Dilshad - (trying but failing miserably to hide her smirk) Asad tum itna pareshan kyun ho rahe ho? Woh busy hogi bechari (as expected Asad stomped his food agitatedly hearing that word, his "pet peeve where Zoya was concerned) kitne kaam hain usse..college, rehearsals-

Asad - TOH WOH EK PHONE BHI TOH KAR SAKTI THI NA..LAPARVAYEE KI BHI HADD HOTI HAI. She's 20 minutes late.

Dilshad - (stared at him dumbfounded, hearing the phone in her reception ringing) oh the audacity of her (shaking her head at him she walked out of the room with her sketchpad ruffling his hair along the way angering him further) uff ho mera akdu beta

(But Asad was in no mood to joke, he continued walking angrily in the room trying her cellphone numerous times but she didn't answer and his worry mounted. She did however come running into the room a second later, out of breath and frazzled but by then Asad was too worried to hear her or her explanation out.)

Zoya - (setting her backpack down and pulling out her iPad) MR. KHAN! OMG Mr. KHAN YOU...YOU won't believe what happened, what I saw what I-

Asad - MS. FAROOQUI (Zoya looked up at him in between opening up her iPad to show him something) DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT TIME IT IS!!

Zoya - (looked confusedly to the clock) 3:20...I know I'm a little late but when you find out the reason you'll understand I have a perfectly good explanation for it.

Asad - I don't care what the explanation is! DID BOTH AMMI AND MYSELF NOT TELL YOU THAT LUNCH WAS SUPPOSED TO BE AT THREE- (Zoya was about to speak, baffled by his behaviour) HOW HARD IS IT TO MAKE ONE PHONE CALL AND LET US KNOW WHERE YOU ARE, THAT YOU'RE OKAY AND THAT YOU'D BE LATE

Zoya - (completely taken aback by his random outburst) relax Mr. Khan aap itna hyper kyun ho rahe hain...main sirf 20 minute hi toh late hoon...aur Malik uncle bhi ab tak nahin aye, I'm fine mujhe kuch nahin huwa hai...why are you going so crazy (but she had no idea that her ramblings were only adding to his irritation and worry and that worry was mounting into panic that was about to overflow into verbal vomit any second)

Asad - AGAR AAP KO KUCH HO JAATA I WOULD'VE GONE CRAZY! (His words bounced off the walls and hung in the air for the longest time whilst Asad and Zoya both stood stunned staring at each other. Emotions and their breaths both heavy)

Asad - (averted his eyes from hers as soon as he saw a ray of hope sneaking into it and pressed his fingers into his forehead annoyed at himself for slipping up like that) I mean...aggar aapko kuch ho jaata toh Ammi..Ammi would've been worried..unhe bauhat bura lagta aur..aur aapki aapi ko bhi (Zoya rolled her eyes at his lame rambling attempt to cover up his words) and I...(sighed seeing Zoya staring at him with a raised eyebrow and hand on her lip) what? What is it that was so important you couldn't find a second to call and tell you'd be late for lunch.

Zoya - FIRSTLY Mr. Khan stop acting like there are monsters just waiting outside to grab me and gobble me up each second I step foot outside (in his defence there weren't monsters but one particularly nasty monster, the only difference was he didn't know about him just yet) SECONDLY..yeh dekhiye...I dug further and I found the entire confidential client list of pheonix security woh pehle waali toh sirf ek chota sa glimpse tha this is the entire thing (handing her iPad over to Asad and excitedly smiled at him) here's what I'm thinking at the charity carnival (Asad stared at her with a raised eyebrow and Zoya nodded determinedly) it's going to be a carnival NO questions asked. You just worry about your department in all of this and that's bank rolling the whole thing. leave the fun activities to the masters (popping her collar, Asad rolled his eyes and returned his attention to the Ipad) So at the carnival we invite ALL of these hot shot rich clients of phoenix security, this has multiple benefits ek toh they will make HOPEFULLY generous contributions to our cause unless sab aapki tarah kanjoos hon (Asad rolled his eyes at her necessary need to take jabs at him which she couldn't resist although there was finally a hint of a smile on HIS face which Zoya caught and in turn one grew on her face too for managing to make him smile) ALSO we get Malik Uncle to hire security officers from Pheonix security as "extra safety precaution and especially request for Raghu Singh due to his "hard work and competence this way Raghu has no reason to say no because our names are not mentioned in it and at the carnival we just keep eyes on him and see woh kisse milta hai aur kya baat karta hai if need be you can even corner him and beat the answer out of him, (shrugged) simple

Asad - woh toh theek hai but I don't want to hire security officers from Pheonix security

Zoya - (rolled her eyes, not appreciating her "genius plan being questioned) Why not?

Asad - Because...(setting her iPad down and walking away to the window staring out the window) because they are employees of the Haveli...the...(looked down, a sad smile etched on his face) royal family.

Zoya - (confused) annnddd? You don't like the royal family-

Asad - (snapped) that's right. (Zoya who was further going to make fun of him and his problems stopped, not knowing the half of his issues with the haveli folks but she did see that sadness in his eyes that always broke her heart and so she stopped)

Zoya - Mr. Khan...this isn't about you or me or our personal problems with others this is about catching Phupi's shooter and getting him the punishment he deserves for what he did to her, for what he almost did to us (Asad loved the way that sounded "us) and you never know, any one of these clients could be who hired the shooter (and just like that fear gnawed at Asad's heart, a nasty unsettling settled into his stomach as the realty and possibility of what Zoya said just settled into him. If the haveli people, his fathers family employed security personnel's from phoenix security there was a very fair chance that they could be the one's who hired someone to shoot at his mother and if god forbid...that was real, the fire he'd set to their entire world was unimaginable. As instant fury overtook his senses he punched the wall in anger startling both Zoya and Dilshad who had overheard bits of their conversation and was standing outside worriedly. Had she just made the biggest mistake of her life by allowing her son to fight this election? If someone was after her family, could it be that Rashid was right. Should she hear him out? Both Zoya and Dilshad stood startled and stunned whilst Asad stormed out of her office, bailing on lunch. However, Zoya came to her senses a second later not understanding what had just happened and ran out after Asad. She caught up to him just outside of Ada designs just as he was getting into his car)

Zoya - Mr. khan! Mr. KHAN! Kya huwa!! Aap yun aise...at least mujhe batayee toh sahee..WHAT-

Asad - (held up a hand) Ms. Farooqui...please! I'm requesting you kindly...to please leave me alone for now I have to go. (He then turned his attention to her and Zoya saw how broken he looked and just like that her hand fell away from the door) Please (and she let him shut the door and drive off. She let him go, for him even though she knew better. What she didn't know about was the very FURIOUS Sameer who was standing around the corner and had watched the entire interaction between her and Asad and was boiling with jealousy and rage. Rage which had blinded his senses. He had seen her chase after him, fuss over him and that look of care, concern and love in her eyes which he wanted to see for himself but instead all he got was hate and perhaps it was the biggest mistake Zoya had made in her life because right there and then he VOWED TO GET REVENGE for Zoya's audacity and transgressions, soon)

Khan Mansion - Late that Evening: Zoya rode her bike up the long driveway and parked it around the side of the house before hopping off and grabbing her bag. She checked her watch and muttered an audible shit which caught Asad's attention who was sitting on the steps of the gazebo nearby dwelling in his own fear whether it be rational or irrational. As if his problems with his brother and his father's family weren't enough for one lifetime as is.

Zoya - (muttered) please don't let me miss Mr. Khan's performance please don't let me miss Mr. Khan's performance Allah Miyan please don't let me miss Mr. Khan...Mr. Khan (spotted him sitting there just as she was running into the house, she frowned confused whilst simultaneously altering her direction and began walking towards him instead of the house) don't you have fans to appease?

Asad - (sighed as he felt all his worries and fears falling away the closer she came. His insides filling with worry instead) don't you have a curfew to keep?

Zoya - (rolled her eyes taking a seat next to him on the steps) I tend not to listen to overbearing Jahapanahs who put ridiculous restrictions on just about everything.

Asad - (shook his head, whispering in a low whisper) they aren't ridiculous if you would listen to the news once in a while.

Zoya - (side eyed him, still feeling the sadness and worry emanating off him) how about I listen to something else instead...

Asad - (scoffed) Don't worry...I'm not bailing on the performance...there's still time

Zoya - don't flatter yourself (scoffed at his audacity) god you really have a high opinion of yourself don't you (Asad shrugged but she had managed to make him smile a bit so she was happy about that) I meant this afternoon. You wanna tell me what that tantrum was about? You (looking away hoping he wouldn't catch her lie) you um..left phupi quite worried...(Asad smiled, catching her lie regardless) so you wanna talk about it?

Asad - (shook his head) no. (Zoya sighed, of course. So, they sat silently in a comfortable silence, enjoying the nightly breeze till Asad had something to say) I do wanna say thank you though (Zoya looked towards him pleasantly surprised and unable to hide that surprise) thank you Ms. Farooqui (playing with his rather bruised fingers to avoid looking at her) aap...iss investigation mein itni help kar rahee hain-

Zoya - (grabbed his shoulder in all seriousness confusing him) Mr. Khan please..aap itna normally behave kareinge toh mujhe bauhat ajeeb lagega..mujhe aadat nahin hai na...(Asad looked away shaking his head, way to ruin it Zoya but Zoya was least bothered, her infectious energy only seemed to increase) chaliye issi baat pe ek sher arz hai (Asad rolled his eyes heavenward, wondering what he got himself stuck in) Mere hamnavah na banne humme akele ki adat hai...mere hamnavah na baniye humme akele ki adat hai zubaan ko mishri na banayee humme karele ki aadat hai..shukriya shukriya

Asad - (stared at her with a deadpan, unimpressed face) was that supposed to be funny?

Zoya - (rolled her eyes) tha toh but only people jinne shayari samajh aati hai samajh sakte the, aap nahin aapko sirf kaam ki baatein samajh aati hai toh chaliye kaam ki baat karte hain. I was thinking ke hum carnival arts week se pehle waale friday ko rakhte-

Asad - (cut her off) can't...that's Malik uncles birthday

Zoya - (starling Asad as she jumped in excitement) OOO REALLY are we going to have a big party? And cake!

Asad - (rubbing his ear pointedly and exaggeratedly making Zoya roll her eyes) uhm no he's not 5. We just go for a sophisticated dinner instead.

Zoya - (rolled her eyes repeatedly 10 times) ya khuda WHY AM I NOT SURPRISED...I'm stuck in a land full of ridiculously boring zombie's. Fine then...we won't have the carnival that Friday instead we, as in YOU AND ME will throw him a grand birthday party fit for a king which someone as special as Malik uncle deserves.

Asad - ek kaam karte hain kyun na main sab kaam dhanda chorke event management mein lag jaoon.

Zoya - uhm...sure but no offence you wouldn't get very far, I mean (shrugged) you're quite boring

Asad - Well forget about it Malik uncle doesn't like parties...he likes a quiet sophisticated dinner with just family.

Zoya - SAYS WHO? Are those his words or yours (Asad had no answer) I thought so. Mr. Khan obviously woh khud kuch nahin kahenge he doesn't wanna inconvenience us but I'm sure he would appreciate a party. He has no family of his own. Come on we HAVE to do this for him. Besides I'm not giving you a choice (rubbed her forearm against his) our leather jackets have rubbed off on it (she got to her feet winking at him and Asad sighed, touched by not just her ability to have a solution to everything, the simplest but greatest solution but also the goodness and largeness of her heart and how she ALWAYS managed to care for and put others ahead of herself and her own comfort even now with so much going on in her life between school, work, the arts festival, her performance she took on planning a grand party for Malik uncle just for that one smile and when he thought about all that he couldn't find it in his heart to say no)

Asad fine, fine (getting to his feet too) but that means that the carnival has to be this Friday. Pushing it any further gives Raghu a chance to get away. Can you manage that?

Zoya - (turned around as she walked away, walking backwards facing him now) consider it done.

Asad - and DON'T come to the cafe alone...come with the driver.

Zoya - (yelled) you can't see me but I'm rolling my eyes at you (Asad shook his head smiling at her antics as he pulled out his car keys and made his way to the driveway filled with a long line of his sports cars, getting ready to go to the cafe for his gig)

xxx

continued in next post...

Asha's Cafe:

Zoya's Outfit:

Zoya was taking the back alleyway into the cafe, running to make it in time and not miss Asad's performance because consider her a fan. Little did she know that Asad wouldn't and couldn't sing until he had her face before him. Without her there was no soul to his music. Just as she was running she felt his presence appear behind her, causing her to stop in her tracks, and the hair on her nape stand up. Goosebumps erupting.

S - (voice modulated) I thought I told you not to wander the streets alone at night..

Zoya - (her voice shaking) and I thought you understood that I wasn't taking the word of a rapist and a killer (silence hung in the air. Asad's heart sinking, she thought the worst of him, believed whatever was portrayed in the media. Would she believe the truth about his innocence if he ever had to convince her of it when the media had already painted such a nasty picture of who he was and what he stood for. It was interesting how both of them had sides to their lives, the darkest sides to their lives they wished hidden from one another and yet constantly lived in fear of what the other would think if he/she ever found out)

Asad - (cleared his throat) you believe what they say about me...about us in the media?

Zoya - (her voice betraying her) shouldn't I?

Asad - That's not what I asked. Do you trust me?

Zoya - I...I don't know..(a long silence stretched out between them)

Asad - I...I think you do.

Zoya - Why? Why would you think that?

Asad - Because you've stood there talking to me in a dark-alley for the last 5 minutes without running away or screaming for help. (Zoya's breathlessness grew as she spun around to face him but like a gust of wind he was gone and she was left in a dark alley with her breathlessness. Right then her phone beeped, she opened it to find a message from an unknown number. A rather nasty message.)

"You're mistaken if you think I'm going to let you and him be. I'm going to get my hands on you bitch, and this time when I'm through with you he won't even want to look at you let alone be with you. So, I'd keep the dreams at a minimum, sweetheart.

Zoya's cold hands, numb with fear rushed to delete the message off her phone. She looked left and right frazzled, who the hell was this person and who were they talking about? Was it Sameer? Was he stalking her outside of campus too now? Who was he talking about? Asad? Or was she just being paranoid, it could just be a wrong number or was that just wishful thinking and desperation on her part? Frightened and paranoid she felt like she was being watched again so she turned around and made a run for it inside the cafe using the back door. She entered the cafe at about the same time as Asad did and kept a low profile. Asad's eyes however sought her out and didn't rest, scanned over the entire cafe and every face in it till he laid eyes on her and only tab uski saans mein saans aaya tha. He then ducked his head as he felt a smile forming on his lips recalling the earlier encounter with her which she had no idea about (encounter as S), so now he had an inside joke about Zoya with himself and god knows he couldn't wait to one day hold that over her head. The know it all badass Zoya and all these weeks she had no idea that she and Asad were secretly meeting and talking the entire time. In that moment he realized something else as well, this was the first time in his life he actually wanted to tell someone about himself as "S. He had never wanted to tell his Ammi or Aisha afraid they wouldn't understand but somehow he had faith that Zoya would understand and it would somehow make it all a whole lot easier and a whole lot more worth it. Zoya kept a low profile and reached her favourite spot in the whole cafe, the back window seat whilst Asad made his way over to where Anaya and Azlan were standing and Anaya was visibly nervous. He avoided even looking at the long table the haveli folks had taken over; Maya, Javed, Kajol, Naina, Humeira, Zain.

Azlan Aapi, don't worry everything will be fine..you'll be great! You're a natural. I'm serious waqt aa gaya hai ke aap apna talent dunya ke saath share karein aur ghar mein chupana band karein. Hopefully with you (eyed Asad approaching) he won't suck either

Naina - Seriously Aapi, it's a crime to keep this talent hidden from the world...

Azlan - and generally even if you didn't have talent after that buffoon (rolled his eyes at Ayaan who had set the house on fire with his very outrageous singing and dancing performance of "Razia ghundon mein phas gayee the wink he dropped at Asad spotting him walk in was evident that the song choice was no coincidence) people would consider you the next Madonna

Naina - don't be hating on others just because you don't got talent Khan (Azlan was just about to retort when Asad came over, ignoring Naina and looking only at Anaya)

Asad - (smiled awkwardly at her, not knowing what to do or say, he just stood before her with his hands in his pocket) how we doing over here? (Azlan didn't answer and pretended to be busy on his phone lest anyone suspect that the two were secretly in contact)

Anaya - (kissed his cheek) How are you?

Asad - (smiled a shy hesitant smile at her) I'm good, how are you

Anaya -(sighed) I've been better you know (he nodded) & currently I'm a nervous mess-

Asad - well don't be we're gonna kill it.

Zain - (getting up and walking by to get coffee) just as long as you don't kill us with your high notes it's all good Khan (Asad rolled his eyes at Zain whilst Azlan walked off with him and the house erupted in cheers and applaud, standing ovations for Ayaan who took a very graceful bow. Azlan was the only one "booing)

Asad - you have a song in mind? (Anaya thought about it for a second and then nodded) great let's go get us set up now that Razia's done (Anaya laughed leading the way to the stage)

Anaya - Is Aisha here?

Asad - (froze) uhm...she should be. Why?

Anaya - Why? What do you mean Why? Don't you think it's about time the two of us meet. I mean all of us have met except for me and her and you know (shrugged) I'd like to get to know my sister. (Asad thought about how that might go, and it wasn't looking too good) Whilst they set up an angry and irritated Ayaan followed Zeenat holding two cups of coffee to the back of the cafe where Zoya was already sat. Just as Zeenat extended one cup to a rather grim Zoya Ayaan's hand shot out and he took it falling unto a chair next to the window seat glaring at the haveli folks table by the entrance angrily and muttering under his breath. He could see Humeira desperately trying to catch his eye but he ignored her and the rest of them.

Zeenat- who peed in your cheerios Razia? (Handing Zoya her own coffee now, taking a seat next to her)

Ayaan - (looked to her and then back at them and muttered an angry-) nothing.

Zeenat - K, forget I asked. Well, who peed in your cheerios Zoe? (Zoya tried but failed miserably to manage a smile)

Zoya - no one.

Zeenat - you still upset about your nightmare?

Ayaan - (frowned) nightmare? I thought the nightmares stopped when you started seeing Dr. Ali? (Zoya sighed, feeling a lump of helplessness, despair and deep depression forming in her throat)

Zoya - (shook her head, trying to keep a brave front) they did. Aapi you're just over reacting...my nightmare last night was about (thinking fast) me falling off the stage during my performance (Ayaan snorted as he burst out laughing and Zoya and Zeenat both smacked him just as Anwar and Aahil came over with some more food and drinks)

Ayaan - In that case Zoya...I hope all your dreams come true sis! Cheers. (Zoya narrowed her eyes at him and he continued laughing)

Sheila- Ladies and gentlemen, back on popular demand again this week we have Asad Ah- (she couldn't even get through his name because the crowd which was leading out the front door onto the main street just to catch a glimpse of him or hear him sing went wild. Asad merely strummed his guitar to acknowledge it, and Zoya's heartbeats spiralled out of control. Asad's singing, was her undoing.) Khan (laughed) but this time he will be performing a duet with first time performer our very own Princess Anaya (Zoya's eyes widened as did Zeenat's whilst the house erupted in cheers again, and Anwar and the Farooqui's avoided eye contact with them to avoid answering any questions regarding Anaya or her relationship to Asad. Zoya felt a pang of jealousy and threat and so she tried to raise her head to catch a glimpse of this "princess but there were too many heads blocking her path for her to see who it was)(waited for the cheers and applauses to die down) so let's give them a warm welcome shall we? (And again the house erupted in cheers)

Anaya - (took a deep breath, keeping her eyes closed, pretending she was at home in her room singing for just her girls, her cousins and no one else) Jadon chhad jaave

Naina bhar jaave Hanjuaan da paani vich saada Baida tar jaave(thinking about her life over the past few weeks Aahil's entry, her beginning to fall for Aahil and Aahil's exit made it rather easy for her to bring feel and soul into her voice to match up to Asad too, who was a true Rockstar when it came to such gigs, she watched him awed as he had his eyes closed strumming his guitar, transported to a different world all together, as was the rest of the house band, completely zen just like Asad from the moment the first beat dropped) Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar Hawaawaan sang uddi main Tere utte diggdi o yaar

Asad - (staring at Zoya over the swarm of heads, still zen, completely at peace with himself and his world so long as he had his voice, the sound of music and Zoya with him)Ho gaya rogi Kehte hain rogi

Anaya - Aa tujhe leke chaloon jahaan chale

Asad - Sab jag soye ham jaage
Anaya - Taaron se karen baatein

Both - (Asad smiled a warm encouraging smile at her and Anaya managed to reciprocate it finally managing to enjoy it, and realize what it felt like to be truly alive and not just breathing and letting the days go by which is what life in the Haveli felt like, and the experience brought tears rushing to her eyes)Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar Hawawan sang uddi main Tere utte diggdi o yaar Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar Hawawan sang uddi main Tere utte diggdi o yaar

Anaya - (letting her tears fall freely, and letting her pain flow freely in those tears as she commenced on this new journey in life) Takte takte tutt'di jaave Aas piya naa aave Shaam savere dard anokhe Uthe jiya ghabraaye

Asad - (shaking his head in true Rockstar fashion as he sang) Takte takte tutt'di jaave Aas piya naa aave Shaam savere dard anokhe Uthe jiya ghabraay

Anaya - Mera naseeb tu Mere qareeb tu Rabb di saunh tere jaya koyi nahi

Asad - (his eyes darting to Zoya's rather sad eyes, as he recalled all that she had shared with him last night)sab jag soye ham jaage
Anaya - Taaron se karein baatein

Asad - Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar
Anaya - Hawaawaan sang uddi main Tere utte diggdi o yaar

Both - Woah Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar Hawaawaan sang uddi main Tere utte diggdi o yaar

Asad - (Zoya's still sad eyes as she stared out the window of the cafe, drowning in the magic of his voice panged his heart and he wondered why she was so sad. She seemed fine earlier, was she sad about what happened last night still? Or did something else happen. All that he knew was he couldn't see her sad anything but smiling no matter what even if he refused to accept why that was so. So, spinning on his bar stool lazily, holding the mic close to his lips like a complete freaking Rockstar he sang in a rather slurred voice that immediately struck a chord with one's heartbeat, each word etching unto your heart forever, it etched unto Zoya's heart for sure) Dil yeh chaahe zakhm ho agar tera To dard yoon mujh pe aaye Tere siwa koyi bhi aarzu na ho

Anaya - (following his gaze, her own eyes meshing with Aahil who immediately lowered his eyes guiltily and ashamed, bringing all the pain and ache rushing back to her heart)Ishq tere ch tar main jawaan Saari duniya ton lad main jawaan

Asad - Tu nahi to kuchh nahi hai Tujh pe waari main ho jaaoon

Anaya - Pi jaaoon yeh gham, Pi jaaoon yeh gham, Pi jaaoon yeh gham, Pi jaaoon yeh gham

Asad - Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar Hawaawaan sang uddi main
Tere utte diggdi o yaar Teri meri tich jodi kadi na tu todi mere yaar
Hawaawaan sang uddi main Tere utte diggdi... mmm..(the song ended with Asad pumping his mic in the air, his signature move and Anaya covering her face breaking down unable to take in the euphoria of performing live on stage for the first time ever, her childhood dream come true and Naina ran unto the stage along with Kajol enveloping her in a hug and letting them all be a part of her victory, their tears of both happiness and sadness meshing together. The rest of the hall broke into applauds and cheers whilst Maya joined Kajol, Naina and Anaya in the corner they had walked off to with tears in her eyes too and enveloped Anaya in a tight motherly hug.)

After the Open Mic Night: Everyone else had gone, the cafe a rather disastrous mess like it was after every open mic night was being cleaned up by some hired help and the only one's left were Anaya, Azlan and Asad. Anaya was just saying goodbye to Asad and Azlan was waiting to take her home.
Anaya - (let go of him) thank you for this. Tonight has been the best night of my life..and I-
Asad - (wiped her tears away with his knuckle) it was my absolute honour to perform with you Aapi, and hey..you wanna thank me then text me the time and place of our next gig and I'll be there.
Anaya - (laughed) Will do. But until then you keep your random and unexpected city-wide gigs up and keep those videos coming, and Inshallah Hollywood will be calling you soon.
Azlan - Really Aapi..you too. Pehle iski Ammi aur Aisha Aapi kaafi hain aise khayali pulao banane ke liye, he's arrogant enough as is
Asad - and you're jealous enough as is
Anaya - okay okay (shook her head at their immaturity) sad that Aisha couldn't make it. I was really looking forward to meeting her
Azlan - you know who I was looking to meet (tongue in cheek) your Ms. Farooqui
Asad - (his cheeks flaming red) she's not MY Ms. Farooqui-
Anaya - (confused) Who is Ms. Farooqui? (Azlan was about to say something when Asad but in and began pushing them both out the door his cheeks still flaming red)
Azlan - (loud whispered whilst being pushed out by Asad) iski bhabi ki behen hai...jispe janaab flat ho chuke hain-
Asad - (spoke rather loudly and defensively) I AM NOT-
Anaya - Waah Waah Chote Miyaan...Bade Miyan toh Bade Miyan Chote Miyaan Subhanallah..Bhabi ki behen
Asad - (looked down blushingly) goodnight Aapi
Anaya - (laughed) goodnight (she walked away after pulling his cheek and Asad and Azlan did an awkward head nod whilst Asad's cheeks were still flaming red with all their insinuations.) waise how do you know about this Ms. Farooqui (she eyed him suspiciously as he went on babbling something about how Zain told him and how Zain had been told by Ayaan. About 2 minutes after they walked away to get into their car Aisha came running up the block, out of breathe)
Aisha - OH No no no no no am I too late did she leave?
Asad - (nodded, pointing to their departing car) that's Anaya Aapi. Also..known as the girl..Aahil Farooqui was going to get engaged to (dropping the bomb and then looking towards her stunned, pale face in shock to give her the chance to do the right thing herself before he got into their limo as the driver pulled up and shortly after a visibly stunned and shocked Aisha joined him)

xxx

A few days later - Morning:

Aisha snuck downstairs stealthily early in the morning with her stethoscope, lab coat and bag and attempted to sneak out of the house before Asad got up for his run since after the last words they exchanged she didn't know how to face him because she didn't know what he knew. Did he imply that Anaya was once engaged to Aahil because he knew about her and Aahil whatever she and Aahil were and whatever was left of them now that she knew that the girl Aahil was getting engaged to was no one else other than her own sister. Thinking about the same, she ran to her car and the driver joined her within seconds. She was getting to work earlier to meet with Aahil to have one final conversation with him. What was going to be the topic of that conversation she didn't know yet.

An hour later:

Asad came bounding up the front steps of the house whilst Zoya was rushing out, trying to juggle all her bags and books.

Asad - Did Bhai and Bhabi leave?

Zoya - (nodded) you just missed them (Asad nodded and Zoya held out an envelope for him) this was just delivered for you...it's from IMA? Any idea what it is?

Asad - (shrugged taking it from her and ripping it) what time are we meeting today?

Zoya - I'm free by 4 and then I'm going to the orphanage afterwards...you can just come there when you're done. We can plan the carnival and Malik Uncle's party there...and I can spend some time with my darlings and (smiled brightly) meet Pari.

Asad - (nodded) I'll meet you there when I'm free but it probably won't be till after 6. It's uhh (staring at the envelope, speaking in a rather confused and stunned voice, he was reading it to himself in surprise he didn't even realize when he had begun reading it out loud) it's an invitation for the Arts Festival...they want me to be the opening act of the festival...the official performance of the inauguration ceremony

Zoya - (supremely happy for him) I...WOW! That's great Mr. Khan (giggled walking off) how much did you bribe Principal Mehta to get that invite? (Bounded down the steps and around the house to her bicycle whilst Asad just smiled staring after her and then back at the invitation and then her departing silhouette, the wheels in his brain churning and his heart in a double bind of what to do about the invitation)

xxx

Kasauli Hospital:

Aisha - WHEN! WHEN WERE YOU GOING TO TELL ME THAT THE GIRL YOU WERE GETTING ENGAGED TO WAS NONE OTHER THAN MY SISTER! You knew this I didn't then...then (she just turned her face the other way, crying and Aahil stepped towards her crying himself)

Aahil- I'm sorry..I'm so sorry Aish I-...god I keep screwing this up-

Aisha - (spun around angrily) NO...There is no US you understand me...whatever us there was is OVER...FINISHED...DESTROYED. You destroyed it when you hid the fact that you were getting engaged let alone that you were getting engaged to MY SISTER-

Aahil - Aisha please listen to me...I..I LOVE YOU.

Aisha - (wiped her tears) no...I'm sorry it..it's over. From now on I want you to stay away from me...we're over...whatever this (pointing between themselves) was..whatever was between us it's all over okay. I...I can't do this to my sister. I won't. Please...if you..if you ever loved me..just (rushed to the door of Aahil's office needing to get out and Aahil too hung his head defeatedly)

Aahil - You're going to throw all this away for a sister you've never met?

Aisha (stopped for just a second, thinking on his words for just a second) she's still my sister (and just like that she bailed)

That Evening - Sunshine Orphanage:

Asad - NO PIZZA!

Zoya - PIZZA!!

Asad - I WILL NOT THROW SUCH A FANCY PARTY AND SERVE PIZZA TO 500 GUESTS INCLUDING THE MAYOR OF THIS GOD FORSAKEN TOWN.

Zoya - I DON'T CARE IF THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNTRY IS COMING I'm IN CHARGE OF THE PARTY AND I SAID WE'RE SERVING PIZZA SO WE'RE SERVING PIZZA (the kids stared between Asad and Zoya both who were locked head to head in a furious fight over something as ridiculous and childish as Pizza)

Farida Bi - THAT IS ENOUGH!!! (She stood between them with her hands on her hips staring at both of them disappointedly) Look at you two, kya impression daal rahe ho tum bachon par. (Asad and Zoya both immediately began screaming over one another trying to present their case to Farida Bi who stared at them both even more angrily and disappointedly, till she had had enough) BAS!!!

A minute later:

Asad & Zoya: OW, OW, OW, OW!

Farida Bi: That should teach both of you a lesson now...to NOT fight like children in my orphanage next time! ESPECIALLY OVER PIZZA. Now, we're all going to go inside and enjoy some pizza..and you two (letting go of their ears, pushing them both out into the rain) will sit outside in detention and THINK about your actions and WE will enjoy some pizza inside.

Asad & Zoya - WHAT!

Zoya - Lekin Farida Bi mujhe bhook laggi hai-

Farida Bi - Maybe you should've thought about it before you began fighting with Asad.

Zoya - main! Main lar rahee thee, no way Farida Bi Larayee Mr. Khan ne shuru ki thi..HAMESHA KI TARHA.

Asad - DID NOT!

Zoya - DID TOO!

Asad - (held up a hand to her face) Farida Bi...again no pizza for Pari-

Pari - (innocently) actually sometimes when chutki di orders pizza she and Farida Bi let me have it and when I tell them you said I shouldn't eat Pizza they say I shouldn't listen to everything you say because you're craycray..chachoo what does craycray mean?

Zoya & FaridaBi - SHHH!! SHHH!! (Asad just stared stunned from Zoya who was avoiding him, looking left right, up and down and then back to Farida Bi who had a hand over Pari's mouth)

Asad - (screaming) YOU GUYS said WHAT!!

Farida Bi - (shut the door on their faces) Okay...see you later.

Zoya - (looking like a drowned rat in the rain) NOW LOOK AT WHAT YOU DID. You got us stuck out here in the freezing cold rain without dinner!

Asad - Dear god the catastrophe! You'll miss one MEAL! (Stepping towards her angrily) YOU TOLD MY NIECE I WAS CRAYCRAY!

Zoya Well, (stepping back sheepishly) you know what Mr. Khan, she's going to realize the same thing herself one day so I...I kind of helped her along

Asad - YOU HELPED HER ALONG?

Zoya - Mr. Khan, bachon se kabhi jhoot nahin bolna chahiye

Asad - Oh yah well if that's the deal then I'll clue Pari in on some details about you too.

Zoya - I'm guessing thanks to you and your need to fight with me over every small trivial matter she's going to be filling in those details herself. She probably thinks I'm as craycray as you are.

Asad - YOU ARE "CRAYCRAY! YOU'RE AS CRAYCRAY AS THEY COME!! and what the hell is CRAYCRAY anyways!

Zoya - (couldn't help but laugh) what you look like right about now.

Asad - (shook his head taking a seat) I can't believe you got us in trouble.

Zoya - (took a seat next to him on the steps of the orphanage, getting drenched in the rain) I can't believe Farida Bi gave us detention out in the rain and no pizza. (they sat there on the front steps of the orphanage with no food, getting drenched in the rain like two kids being disciplined, which is exactly what it was)

An hour later:

Zoya - do you remember what we were fighting about? (Asad stared at her in disbelief and Zoya's thoroughly confused and lost face told him that she was actually serious and right then Zoya's stomach did a round hungry rumble and both their eye's widened, Asad stared at Zoya and Zoya down at her stomach and then back up at him and the two of them just couldn't take it and burst out laughing. Asad ACTUALLY chuckled which for him equated to rolling all over the floor laughing but Zoya was actually rolling all over the floor laughing at the situation they were in able to find comedy in their drenched, punished selves and boy was Asad's laughter the sweetest sound she had ever heard. It quickly crossed up to her MOST favourite sound fast crossing the sound of him singing. It made her feel warm and cocooned inside. Hearing their laughter, the doors to the orphanage opened and music blared from inside where the kids were dancing and enjoying the mini pizza party Zoya had organized for them.

Kids - (running outside) DI AND BHAIYA MADE UP!! DI AND BHAIYA MADE UPP! (They began doing a happy dance around both of them whilst they still laughed/chuckled laughing at the whole situation. Asad picked Pari up in his arms shaking his head at the pizza sauce smeared on her lips she was desperately trying to clean, her OCD kicking in, Zoya kissed her cheek and laughed harder seeing Asad cringe and become even more desperate to clean it for her. Farida Bi smiled adoringly at the whole scene unfolding before her. A real picture perfect moment)

Zoya - (pointing to him as he stubbornly wiped Pari's face) Yeh kaisa ladka hai

Asad - (frowned, catching her riff) Yeh kaisi ladki hai
Zoya - (shook her head, slapping her forehead) Iska main kya karoon
Asad - (pinched the bridge of his nose annoyed) Isse main kya kahoon
Zoya - (butted heads with him, smiling) Yeh ladta hai
Asad - (pushed her head back with his own, smiling back) Akadti hai
Zoya - (slapped his shoulder, walking away) Jhagadta hai
Asad - (spun around slapping the back of her head playfully just as she was running off with the kids) Bigadti hai
Zoya - (glared at him angrily) Deewana hai
Asad - (shrugged kissing Pari's cheek setting her down) Deewani hai (the kids all looked towards them excitedly, bopping up and down on their tiny feet eagerly, some of them dancing along to the music along with Zoya)
Zoya - (grabbed Asad by the head and shoved him down on the steps of the orphanage before he could even process what was happening and she herself ran out into the damp grass amidst the still pouring rainfall, turning back around just once to stick her tongue out at Asad before she joined the kids in bopping up and down dancing, carrying one of them on her back, but still she was evidently the biggest kid of them all) Haye haye re haye yeh ladka Haye haye re haye Karta naadaniyaan kyun Poocho to haye Yo! Haye haye re haye yeh ladka Haye haye re haye Karta naadaniyaan kyun Poocho to haye Yo! Kabhi yeh hamse ladta hai Kabhi jhagadta hai Koi paas iske na aana(Zoya grabbed Pari's hand and the two of them lead the way of the swarm of kids that ran up to Asad pushing him back down on the steps of the orphanage just as he was about to get up) Yeh ladka hai Deewana hai deewana, Deewana, deewana, deewana
Asad - (slapped Zoya's head away just as she was running off with the kids again and instead the kids betrayed her and grabbed Asad's hand/began clinging to him whilst running out to the garden leaving Zoya's mouth hanging agape, as he began singing and dancing with the kids, annoying Zoya with his EXAGGERATED expressions, she really wasn't that bad!) Haye haye re haye yeh ladki Haye haye re haye
Karti naadaniyaan kyun poocho to haye Kabhi yeh hamse ladti hai Kabhi akadti hai Karo door se chhedh khaani...Yeh ladki hai Yeh ladki hai Deewani hai deewani Deewani, deewani, deewani Haye haye re haye yeh ladki Haye haye re haye Karti naadaniyaan kyun poocho to haye (Yo) Kabhi yeh hamse ladti hai Kabhi akadti hai, Karo door se chhedh khaani...Yeh ladki hai Yeh ladki hai Deewani hai deewani Deewani, deewani, deewani
Asad - (sitting in the centre of the circle surrounded by all the kids as he was telling them a rather serious story about Zoya and they all seemed to be hanging unto his every word) Iski baatein Yahi jaane(Slapped his head shaking his head, making a very VERY REAL complain even if the kids didn't know it) Koi bhi toh jaane na..
Aisi vaisi Kaisi hai yeh Koi pehchaane na.. (the kids began screaming and running after him, hanging onto his every word as if Asad and Zoya were putting on some skit, which they were, but the kids didn't know that there every word held the truth) Toh bhaago Oh yaaron Kar na de shaitaani (dancing with Pari, whose laughter echoed all around the fields surrounding the Orphanage and it made Asad smile which made Zoya's heart fill with warmth) Yeh ladki hai Deewani hai deewani Deewani, deewani, deewani
Zoya - (pinched Pari's cheek, before lightly punching Asad in the jaw and running off the with the kids) Yeh ladka hai Deewana hai deewana Deewana, deewana, deewana
Zoya - (dancing away from Asad along with the kids whilst he attempted to make a grab for them, sort of like a dance kabbadi) Aate jaate Chhedhe hamko Ke maane na yeh kehna.. Dekho dekho Paagal hai yeh(Laughing hysterically as Asad charged the kids at once grabbing about 5 of them at once underneath his strong arms and spinning them around making them laugh hysterically) Haan bachke zara rehna..
(Watching the site through soft adorning eyes along with the rest of the kids) Yeh aisa
Hai phir bhi Apna isko maana Yeh ladka hai Deewana hai deewana Deewana, deewana, deewana
Zoya - (hugging Farida Bi from the back as the kids surrounded her dancing all around her and Zoya earned a slap from Farida Bi though the smile on her face had never been bigger) Haan haye haye re haye yeh ladka Haye haye re haye Karti naadaniyaan kyun poocho toh haye
Asad - (pushed her away and instead hugged Farida Bi himself) Kabhi yeh hamse ladti hai Kabhi akadti hai Karo door se chhedh khaani Yeh ladki hai Deewani hai deewani Deewani, deewani, deewani (and in the end they were able to let their differences go and come together for the kids, though in all fairness they may have enjoyed making the kids who meant SO much to both of them laugh and smile but the two ended up enjoying much more than the kids and Farida Bi watched them laugh and play, dance with the kids through misty adorning eyes happy that her kids, her two angels were finally able to find some semblance of peace and happiness which they very much deserved, in each other. She just prayed kissi ki nazar na lagge unhe (jo ke lagne hi waali thi!)
Zoya - Yeh ladka hai Deewana hai deewana Deewana, deewana, deewana (and then they spent the rest of the night along the Kasauli beach hanging with Ayaan, Jay, Sheila and other friends of Asad and Ayaan whilst simultaneously planning the carnival, mapping it all out and figuring out all the details.)
The Next Day - Khan Mansion Library:
Asad and Zoya's newly formed "event management company as it seemed was in business. The two had completely taken over the library floors and walls planning both their upcoming charity carnival and Malik Uncle's birthday party. They had a security detail for the carnival mapped out on the ground whilst catering, food, entertainment, guest list etc. had all taken over the large table in the room and every inch of bare wall was filled with similar planning's for Malik Uncle's birthday party.
Asad - great. Yah. I want this done today Prasad. Alright call me with an update. Yah. (He shut his cell phone and then looked over to Zoya) that's the invites done. I've got my PA on it (but it seemed Zoya was too engrossed in whatever details she was was working on to have heard him, as was evident by the bechara end of the pen she had completely chewed up)
Zoya - there's something missing
Asad - (muttered) let me guess...pizza.
Zoya - (heard him) no I've got th- (jumped up excitedly) I KNOW! A fries station.

Asad - (muttered) oh dear god (he didn't bother arguing with her because he knew there was no use. Even if he did deny her she would just use any one of his family members against him because as it turned out his entire family had turned sides since the day she arrived into their lives)

Zoya - sorry what were you saying about the invites?

Asad - (staring at the bulletin wall) I've got my PA handling it.

Zoya - (joined his side) your PA? Does he not have anything better to do? (Just as Asad was about to give her a fitting reply they heard Malik's voice over the TV which caught their attention and Asad turned towards the TV, turning the volume up at once)

Malik - This is the time for all of us to come together. Not next week, next month or next year but NOW. Enough is enough. We must all come together as ONE to save OUR city. So, I plead with you. Please come out and help your brothers and sisters keep their homes, their families, their lives. This charity carnival tomorrow promises not just to save numerous lives but promises you all a good time as well. The carnival is completely safe and sponsored by the police force of Kasauli (Asad couldn't help but scoff, making Zoya narrow her eyes at him) so forego your fears and stop bowing down to bullies. It is time we stand up to them and tell them that we the people of Kasauli are not alone and we are NOT afraid.

Zoya - Dayum Malik Uncle looks good in a suit (Asad narrowed his eyes)

Asad - So the advertisements, posters and bulletins should be up by tonight and word spreads fast here, lets just see how many of them cower and sit at home as always

Zoya - (rolled her eyes) well Mr. My glass is always half empty. I have to go for my rehearsals, are you off to work? (He nodded whilst listening to the news)

Newscaster - in other news, it seems a new drug epidemic has struck Kasauli. Just today the number of hospitalization cases have crossed 20 and we are getting reports that the death toll has crossed 16. The Mayor is blaming the hawks a local gang whose power, influence and crimes in the city have been constantly growing, however this is the most bloodiest act by the gang thus- (Zoya narrowed her eyes and shut the TV at once not liking what was being said about "S and his "brothers on the news. In all fairness, Zoya had absolutely no proof but her heart for his innocence and the media and police probably had sufficient evidence proving his guiltiness to back up those allegations but for Zoya her gut feeling was more stronger than any such evidence)

Zoya - (seeing Asad staring at her with a raised eyebrow and she looked away flushing bright red whilst hurriedly and clumsily trying to gather her belongings) the, news is just depressing (shook her head) Uhm, so did you think about the festival, will you perform?

Asad - (still trying not to smile) I guess you'll just have to see..

Zoya - Well hopefully I'll get to see Rockstar Asad Ahmed Khan in his element again. Perhaps you could give us a preview at Rogue tonight? As a celebratory thank you for a job well done (pointing around the room)

Asad - (walking out of the room, turned back for a second) drinks on you?

Zoya - (shrugged, catching up with him) so long as you're drinking mineral water SURE (she then winked at him before running off and took Asad's heart right along with her)

xxx

Continued in next post...

Tumhi Din Chadhe Tumhi Din Dhale Tumhi Ho Bandhu Sakha Tumhi Tumhi Din Chadhe Tumhi Din Dhale Tumhi Ho Bandhu Sakha Tumhi(Using their combined hands Zoya twirled herself beneath them, repeatedly, she smiled happily and Asad sighed hopefully) Everytime Every Minute Of The Day Tumhi Ho Bandhu Sakha Tumhi Zoya - (stopped before him and smiled devilishly at him) come on, follow my lead! (She began mimicking the dance steps from the actual song and Asad just stared at her with a raised eyebrow like she was kidding him. Didn't she know him but at all. To be more firm and clear that he was NOT dancing like that he crossed his arms across his chest and stood there stoically, resembling a body guard and seeing his stubbornness Zoya couldn't help but start laughing shaking her head at him and it just about made him confess his love for her right there and then because his heart filled with so much warmth hearing her laughter) Tumhi Din Chadhe Tumhi Din Dhale Tumhi Ho Bandhu Sakha Tumhi.

Along with the song Zoya's smile died too. Instead her eyes grew wide and fearful as she spotted something or rather someone across the dance floor. Asad noticed that and whilst everyone else was cheering and hooting excitedly, he turned around to see what she was looking at making Zoya panic even more and grab his hand before he could see or worse, do something about it)

Zoya - Come on (she quickly and desperately grabbed his hand and without looking back ran off the dance floor and further into the carnival. Her heart racing with the fear that Sameer was following her. She didn't stop or look back till she had formed a maze in her path by making abrupt turns between all the rides and games, going in circles ensuring she lost him. She didn't want to imagine what could happen if Sameer came up to her in front of Asad, what she would say to Asad what he would say to her, and then her heart sank with fear what Sameer may try to do to Asad, what Asad would DEFINITELY do to Sameer, unless of course he also agreed with Sameer and thought her to be nothing more than a s**t or a tease. and just like that she fell in her own eyes and not finding herself worthy of him, feeling dirty or cheap she let go of his hand abruptly)

Asad - (walked out from behind her and stood infront of a pale and visibly flustered Zoya with a frown on his face, he stared at her confusedly and suspiciously, something was definitely up with her, she was behaving really strangely these past few days. Well, stranger than normal for Zoya) Okay what just happened?

Zoya - (trying to act all nonchalant but Asad could see right through it, she was visibly shaken up and still looking around all paranoid as if expecting to see a ghost pop up any second) what? I..uh (looked all around, her eyes shined as she spotted an alibi) I wanted to play this game (grabbed one of the guns)

Asad - (crossed his arms staring at her) (drawing it out) really...

Zoya - (nodded her head a little too eagerly) I wanna win that teddy bear (pointed to a life size teddybear hanging from the stand) look how cute it is Mr. Khan...

Asad - (nodded) cuter than you thats for sure.

Zoya - (tongue in cheek) CUTER matlab aapne bhi maana ke maybe uss teddybear ke jitni nahin par main cute toh hoon (if only she knew just how cute he thought she was. Asad looked away embarrassed as she winked at him before turning to the game, he really had walked right into that one. Zoya took her first shot at the moving glass bottles she had to shoot down and Asad raised an eyebrow at her, damn she was even more adorable now to him with her horrible aim, seemed like she was shooting at mars instead. She pouted at him and he looked away not trusting himself and Zoya thought he was laughing at her, she huffed, and a defiant look formed in her eyes as she tossed her hair airily. It was obvious at once that they'd be here all night if they had to, if that's what it took for Zoya to win that teddy bear but either way she wasn't leaving here without it)

Haveli:

Rashid was out in the garden with the gardener, touring the garden, the flowers and the plants and ensuring the gardener did a good job one Rashid was satisfied with because he took an avid interest in the landscape of his Haveli and gardening so he was quite fussy about it. However, his peaceful evening was disrupted when a frantic Razia came running out to the foyer.

Razia - (looking pale and panicked) RASHID MIYAN! RASHID MIYANN! (Hearing her panicked voice and then seeing her panicked face and knowing Razia would never come out running to call him herself she'd find herself too above such basic things and would definitely send a servant to call him he knew it had to be something big and so dropping everything in a second, he went running over to her as fast as he could panicked himself, his heart racing in fear of the worst)

Rashid - Kya hua bhabi sab theek haina? Aap itni ghabrayee kyun hain? Ammi baba-

Razia - (shook her head) woh sab theek hai..magar aap theek nahin raheinge-

Rashid - (frowned) kya matlab?

Razia - Rashid Miyan mujhe abhi abhi Raghu singh ka phone aaya woh wahan uss charity carnival pe gaya hua haina larkiyon ke saath..(Rashid nodded keeping up) Rashid Miyan...ab main kya bataon jo koi bhi iss carnival ke liye zimedaar hai ussne beach ki property sahee tarah measure nahin ki..Rashid Miyan unhone beach ke saath saath kaafi carnival ka intezaam hamari fish factory ke paas bhi kiya docks pe...I don't know poora kar liya ya..karne ki koshish ki par unhone ne ya kissi aur badmaash ne facotry ke bahar zameen toh dig ki aur...(but telling from Rashid's face, it was obvious that he understood where she was going with this) ab mujhe aapko batane ki zaroorat toh nahin hai na ke Raghu ko wahan kya milla jo usne mujhe ghabraye hue phone kiya...ya aggar koi aur wahan se guzra toh usse kya millega..woh jagah toh waise hi aaj police waalon se bhari hui hai kissi ko kuch bhi dikh gaya toh- (and Rashid without wasting another second, without bothering to wash his dirt filled hands turned around and ran down the driveway to his car desperately and panickedly, and Razia wiped the tears of panic from her eyes, adjusting her dupatta and smirking. Ghafoor joined her side, frowning as sternly as ever)

Ghafoor - Kaam hogaya?

Razia - Kaam hogaya. Raghu ne sab intezaam kar diya hai, ab Rashid Miyan bhaagte hue wahan jayenge, uss laash ko phirse dafnane ki koshish mein lag jayenge isse pehle ke koi dekhle, par afsos unke dafnane tak Raghu Asad ko (spoke his name with absolute disgust and vile) wahan le ayega aur aur koi nahin Asad hi Rashid ko woh laash dafnate dekh lega..Raghu aur Rashid ko ek saath dekhke woh 2 aur 2 15 banadega aur aage ki larayee woh dono baap beta lareinge aur koi humpe Dilshad ko goli marwane ke liye shak hi nahin karega.

Ghafoor - (sighed) khuda karre aisa hi ho.

Carnival:

It had been over an hour and yet, Zoya was still struggling to win the teddybear. Her opponents had changed over 20 times and yet she was still there, and Asad was still there leaning against the stand with his arms crossed lazily and an amused smile on his face like he could do this all night. As she lost for the 21st time she looked at Asad and seeing the amused boyish grin on his face she couldn't help but give him a playful shove, well that and she couldn't trust herself for long around that beautiful boyish grin.

Zoya - shut up.

Asad - (shook his head but couldn't help the smile) I didn't say anything.

Zoya - (whined) Mr. Khan...help me! I want the stupid teddy bear..

Asad - I thought it was a cute teddy bear

Zoya - (glared at him) Mr. KHAN!!!!!

Asad - Okay...Okay (shook his head and moved behind her, absentmindedly putting his arms around her shoulder and below her arm he grabbed hold of her gun. He didn't realize the effect his actions were having on her, how she had stiffened in the confinements of his arms even though she wanted nothing more than to melt in them, and it still surprised her that even in such close proximity she was least bit scared or afraid for the first time with a guy.) So what your doing wrong is relaxing your arms too quickly, you need to keep your legs firm and your posture straight even after pulling the trigger and follow through to the end like (but as he closed his arms in closer, his large fingers over her warm tiny ones on the trigger he realized the foolishness of his own actions and once again he couldn't help but wonder how he got himself trapped in such self sabotaging situations. He legit walked into that one yet again. It was as if it was becoming physically impossible for him to stay away from her. Turning his head slightly, he did the mistake of looking into her eyes and she in his and without even realizing it, their heads leaned further into each other, both of them left breathless. Asad gulped nervously as he felt Zoya's ragged breaths wash over him their gazes snagging unto each others' lips. They were about a hairbreadths away from each other and just as both of them got tired of fighting this, whatever this was and give in by just leaning in another cm they were distracted by the sound of fireworks going off as it grew a little darker and they jumped away from one another immediately looking away, feeling like every pore of their body was on fire, especially their lips. And then they refused to look at one another.)

Asad - I uhh...I (shrugged) I'll play you for it

Zoya - (frowned) really? You? Isn't this a little I don't know...too (mimicked him) incredibly foolish, childish and immature for you.

Asad - That's cute. But you better bring your A game if you want to win the bear.

Zoya - Awww, do you want the teddy bear Mr. Khan...

Asad - (lining up his target) Don't underestimate me Farooqui, playing such childish carnival games may not be my scene but schooling you is my scene any-day, everyday.

Zoya - Ok bring it then Jahapanah (Asad shook his head at her, knowing she was acting all badass right-now but she'd be crying in the next 1 minute precisely, and as soon as the game started, Asad skilfully got every single one of his moving targets like if he were a pro, as if he spent his days and nights doing this, which in all fairness he did and Zoya's mouth fell aghast watching him school her, so she began cheating. She began dancing in front of him, in his line of fire. Asad was surprised by how much he was actually enjoying the game, it was like he was getting a chance to relive his lost childhood, thanks to Zoya or maybe it was the fact that he was living his lost childhood with Zoya that was making him feel this alive and this happy. The two played like absolute children, cheating, screaming and fighting. Half the game they were just leaning against each other pushing and resisting each others attempts at sabotage, Asad spent half the game ducking her under his arm making her scream and she spent half the game dancing in his line of fire and consequently they spent half the game shooting the target at each other rather than at the bottles, and Zoya was surprised to see such a childish, playful but absolutely adorable side of Asad. His few bursts of deep throated chuckling was no mercy either. But alas the fun and games had to come to an end and surprise surprise Asad won the giant teddy bear. As he grabbed it, smiling proudly not of this victory but emotional over getting to live some of his lost childhood Zoya smiled brightly and held out her hands.

Asad - (looked to her with his best poker face) what?

Zoya - (frowned) the teddy bear, give it to me.

Asad - NO WAY (pulling the teddy bear behind himself, practically giving it a piggy back ride) get your own teddybear Farooqui (Zoya's mouth fell open in complete shock seeing Asad walk away in complete seriousness, and then to rub it in he turned around half way) come on. Losers buying cotton candy.

Meanwhile on a similar game stand, Ayaan was teaching Naina how to shoot some hoops and win some stuffed animals as well, and Azlan and humeira were sitting around on a bench miserably glaring at the two of them.

Azlan - I mean what the hell does she see in him.

Humeira - (glaring even more hatefully) him, what the hell does he see in her.

Azlan - (sighed) I can see exactly what he sees in her b- (and then his fists clenched angrily at his sides, and anger like he had NEVER felt before filled in his heart as he watched Naina throw her arms around him and give him a tight hug whilst laughing and Ayaan wrap both his hands around her waist it was like someone had set fire to his entire body. He wanted to strangle Ayaan right there and then, and Naina how could she be so foolish. He turned around ready to share his feelings with Humeira but he found her gone and as he looked around he saw her angrily storming off into the night. She too wanted nothing more than to strangle Naina)

Asad walked around smugly, still carrying his teddybear on his back proudly and munching on his cotton candy.

Zoya - You're literally SUCH a child you know that..waise toh sabke dadajaan bante phirte hain aap par yahan kaise bachon jaise behave kar rahe hain?

Asad - (shrugged) and you're a sore loser you know that. You act all badass but a true badass accepts their defeat with dignity.

Zoya - GIVE IT TO ME Mr. Khan! (Asad chuckled again whilst still eating his cotton candy) Okay that's it you know what- (she grabbed the nearest water-bottle she could find and unscrewed the tap) GIVE IT TO ME MR. khan or prepare to get drenched..

Asad - (stared at her appalled and backed away warningly) Farooqui don't you dare-

Zoya - (feigning innocence) what happened Mr. Khan...scared of a little bit of water?

Asad - Ms. (and just as Zoya made a run at him he too backtracked and then began running away too and given his legs were longer he was much faster and it made Zoya growl and in turn him chuckle as she chased him around the park and although his behaviour was completely out of character it wasn't by choice, life had never given him a chance to live so care free, to laugh, to play childish games for no reason and to be happy, not until Zoya had come barrelling into his life uninvited that is)

Asad and Zoya who were too busy engaged in childish games around the carnival were completely unaware of the storm headed their path that was going to turn EVERYONES lives upside down. On the other end of the park Dilshad and Malik too were unaware of the storm headed their path as they lazily strolled around enjoying some ice cream.

Dilshad - par woh sahee toh keh raha hai, we did ruin his life..I ruined his life.

Malik - (sighed) come on Dilshad behen, aap aisa kaise soch sakti hain you know how much Asad loves you.

Dilshad - (nodded) it doesn't change what he said...

Malik - what he said was in anger. I mean how else did you think he was going to react? We anticipated this didn't we-

Dilshad - (nodded) we uh..we did but this..I wasn't expecting to hear that. I mean..I knew Asad had those feelings buried deep somewhere in his heart...I had those feelings buried in my heart and I knew I'd have to hear them someday but it still doesn't make it any easier to hear it.

Malik - (nodded) I understand..but I feel like you're focusing on the wrong part of this...we knew Asad was going to say no, get angry throw a tantrum and act out...but we decided that we wouldn't give in unless he presented a valid reaction and I don't want to or because I said so doesn't count...

Dilshad - (sighed, staring into the distance) I don't know...there was something about the way he said no..that...(shook her head)(remembering something) do you think I should get in contact with Rashid? Ask him what he knows? What he keeps harping on about Asad's life in danger...Maybe he knows something. It wouldn't hurt to hear him out especially if theres a chance Asad is actually in danger-

Malik - (shook his head) you're being desperate. These people will do ANYTHING to gain back power of the city and win those elections and Asad is the one candidate who stands in the way of that and poses an actual threat-

Dilshad - but still...there's no harm in trying right?

Malik - (sighed, shaking his head) fine..if it'll help you sleep better then call him...I'm going to go check on the units till then k? (Dilshad nodded pulling out her cellphone whilst Malik walked off)

Meanwhile a completely drenched Asad and Zoya called a truce as they emptied out the last of their water bottles on each other.

Asad - Okay Okay fine you can have the stupid teddybear (He grinned as Zoya jumped up shrieking excitedly and caught the teddybear as he threw it to her)

Zoya - (hugged it and smiled smugly) he's not stupid, he's cute. (Staring at it) Now, what do we call you? (Asad frowned seriously as he leaned into the ear of the teddybear and Zoya laughed) what're you doing?

Asad - (answered seriously) trying to hear his (straightening up and staring at her with a serious poker face) answer to the question you just asked him.

Zoya - Ha Ha Jahapanah (pulled his cap lower over his face) oo (staring at her teddybear) Jahapanah Junior

Asad - thats a HORRIBLE name. and you know, you called the teddybear cute and if you name him after me then that means you find me cute too

Zoya - conceited much (but she was blushing none the less. Asad was pulling out his ringing cellphone when a thought stuck Zoya) Mr. Khan if you want toh aap..Pari ko yeh teddybear deh sakte hain

Asad - (although touched by her thoughtfulness and care for Pari, and that reflected in his eyes he shook his head) I'll win her another one. Besides...you seem to need it more than her. (Zoya playfully kicked him and he laughed answering his phone) Hello? (and just like that the million-dollar smile disappeared and the characteristic frown, anger at life and everybody in the world, and the stoic and rigid Asad returned replacing the playful one Zoya was adoring just seconds ago) where? Hmm..K..I'm there. Yah.

Zoya - everything okay?

Asad - Yah (shut the phone) that was Jay. He uhh...they have eyes on Raghu.

Zoya - WHERE?

Asad - some abandoned factory down by the docks...

Zoya - Then what're we still doing here, lets go! (She took off but Asad remained rooted to his spot. He couldn't believe he had forgotten the actual reason they had arranged this entire carnival in the first-place, to catch the scumbags who shot his mother and the one who had ordered for his mother to get shot. The same mother who now wanted him to become Mayor of this city. He couldn't believe that he wasn't meant to live his life happily and care freely, playing games and engaging in childishness with Zoya he wasn't that lucky. Instead his life revolved around one misery after another)

Zoya - Mr. Khan!! (Not finding him next to her) COME ON! WHAT'RE YOU WAITING FOR!! (Finally Asad was able to snap out of it and join her in going to finally put this misery behind themselves and as he remembered Raghu and the pain he had caused him and his family Asad's insane anger for Raghu returned tenfold)

His mind numb with fury, blinded by the sight of his mother lying in a pool of blood, left to die As Asad rounded the corner to the factory Raghu was spotted at, he backtracked his steps immediately and put his arm up effectively blocking Zoya's path too and making her come to an abrupt stop. Just as she was about to ask why he had stopped he put a hand around her mouth pulling her into his body unintentionally. Zoya's eyes widened just slightly as his darkened feeling her hot breath on his hand and he abruptly let her go as if on fire, avoiding eye contact with her. He then cautiously and stealthily peeked around the corner and Zoya followed his move. However, that made him even more furious. There Raghu was pacing the entry way to the factory smoking a cigarette casually, like he hadn't just done something terribly wrong. He hadn't just tried to take Asad's mother, the most important woman in his life away from him. He hadn't just tried to destroy Asad's whole world, and with those thoughts running through his mind blocking his ability to calm down and think rationally Asad ran forward taking Zoya and Raghu as he charged up to him, yanking him by the collar, by surprise. Zoya ran after him, depositing her teddy bear to the side of the factory as she saw Asad furiously grab Raghu and the look on Raghu's face as he stared at Asads merciless and furious one, like he could see his death written in Asad's enraged eyes.

Raghu - SAHAB- (Asad whacked him HARD across the face once and blood spluttered from his mouth)

Asad - TERE SAHAB KI TOH- (grabbed him again and shook him hard, his eyes just as red and wild with fury as his face, he looked completely unhinged) BOL MERI MAAN PE GOLI KYUN CHALAYEE!! KISS KE KEHNE PE CHALAYEE BOL!

Raghu - Main kuch nahin jaanta sahab mujhe chor do. (But Asad wasn't hearing it)

Asad - (beating him to pulp) BOL!! BOL MERI AMMI PE GOLI KYUN CHALAYEE BOL!! (Sitting atop him and punching the living daylights out of him, Zoya stood too stunned and frightened by his almost mad behaviour to step forward) BOL ! BOL KYUN CHALAYEE BOL- (but Raghu couldn't speak even if he wanted to, Asad had beat him almost to a state of unconciousness and it seemed either he didn't realize it or he simply didn't care to stop and show him any more mercy than he had shown his mother but thats when Zoya finally pulled herself together)

Zoya - MR. KHAN!! STOP IT Mr. KHAN! CHORIYE USSE (began grabbing his shoulders in an attempt to pull him off but it was a lost cause, Asad's body was a treat on a good day but Asad Ahmed Khan enraged was a force not to be reckoned with) STOP IT MR. KHAN PLEASE USSE CHORIYE! (Crouched on the ground next to Raghu trying to get him to look at her but nothing and no one could get through to him at this point) MAR JAYEGA MR. KHAN! Hum ussi ke zariye phupi ke asli gunegaar tak pahaunch sakte hain! Mr. Khan please!! PLEASE CHORIYE..(and then not knowing what else to say or do she grabbed his face in her hands and turned him towards herself, desperately needing him to look at her, but his unhinged eyes weren't able to focus, still she tried to coax him into listening to her and if nothing at least she saw his bloody fist slowly lowering next to him) mar jayega Mr. Khan aur hamare paas aur koi clue nahin bachega! Hum kabhi nahin jaan payeinge ke phupi par goli kissne aur kyun chalayee

(her eyes were filling with tears of desperation and helplessness, she couldn't bear to see Asad in this much pain, so troubled so lost and yet as overwhelmed as she felt she couldn't help but take a breath of relief as she saw him listen to her words and loosen his grip on Raghu and eventually back off and get back to his feet. As he got to his feet so did Zoya) Please Mr. Khan usko maarne se kuch haasil nahin hoga, hamare paas zyaada waqt nahin hai please usse choriye aur factory ke andar jaake dekhiye shayad aapko koi aur clue mill jaye..woh abhi apne sahab ko bola raha tha shayad ussi se kuch pata chal jaye par please jaldi kijiye hamare paas waqt kum hai. Isse pehle ke koi aajaye please andar chaliye (but Asad spotted Raghu trying to crawl away and still blinded by his anger he almost leapt at Raghu's neck but Zoya grabbed the back of his jacket right before he could wrap his arms around Raghus neck who had fainted out of fear now) PLEASE FOR GODS SAKE MR. KHAN WOH BEHOSH HO CHUKKA HAI!! HUMME USSE KUCH HAASIL NAHIN HOGA!! WAQT BARBAAD MAT KIJIYE MR. KHAN AUR USSE CHORIYE!! JUST LEAVE HIM AND GO (Asad spun around staring at her wildly, and she stared at him sternly not showing him any leniency or cowering under his furious gaze. This was their only chance and she had to get through to him) GO!! (It seemed he finally heard what she had to say and finally turning his back on Raghu began jogging back to the factory entrance as quickly as his brain could allow, he did spin around once just to make sure Zoya was right behind him, needing her more than he ever knew or could care to admit in this moment and he took relief and comfort in the fact that she was) However, if Zoya hoped Asad would calm down and gain some perspective after leaving Raghu behind, her hopes were going in vain because the night was about to take a very dark turn. Asad's feet stumbled in the dark entrance of the factory and he stopped once again, this time paralyzed with shock and unbearable pain at the voice that reached his ears. The voice of the man who had tried to get his mother killed. The voice of his own father. Zoya stopped before him hearing the voice too but she didn't know the extent of it just yet.

xxx

Continued in next post...