Naziya Khan had called Azlan to make him understand that whatever happened yesterday should be forgotten. Once the wedding is over, they won't be visiting that place again anyway. But her son shocked her with his response. "Main Rubab se shadi karna chahta hoon."

(I want to marry Rubab.)

The statement hung in the air like the thick heat of the summer night. Naziya’s breath caught in her throat, her astonishment undeniable.

“Dimagh kharab ho gaya hai apka?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she tried to maintain her composure, though her disbelief was evident.

(Have you lost your mind?)

“Kya shadi sirf wahi karte hain jinka dimagh kharab ho?"

(Do only crazy people get married?)

Naziya shook her head, trying to make sense of it. "Azlan, yeh wahi Rubab hai jiski wajah se kal apko itni sharmindagi hui thi aur aap yaha se jana chahte the. Ab achanak se ek din mein aisa bhi kya ho gaya jo apko unse shadi karni hai,"

(Azlan, this is the same Rubab who embarrassed you so much yesterday that you wanted to leave. What changed overnight that now you want to marry her?)

It had indeed happened suddenly, but not today—it started the very day they arrived. That brief eye contact had turned his world upside down, making all the standards he had set for his ideal partner insignificant.

“Ammi, usme aisi koi burai bhi toh nahi," Azlan responded, trying to reason with her.

(Ammi, there’s nothing wrong with her,)

“Kal raat jo hua..." Naziya began, her voice edged with frustration.

(What about what happened last night...)

“Kal raat jo hua agar na hua hota toh ussey reject karne ki ek wajah bataye?" Azlan interrupted, determined to defend his decision. “Achhi larki hai, Khandani hai, aur kya chahiye apko apni bahu mein."

(What happened last night, if it hadn’t occurred, then tell me one reason to reject her?)

(She’s a good girl, comes from a reputable family. What more do you need in a daughter-in-law?)

“Jo humare bete ko khandan ke samne beizzat na kare hume aisi bahu chahiye," Naziya shot back, her pride clearly wounded by yesterday’s events.

(I want a daughter-in-law who doesn’t humiliate my son in front of the family.)

“Woh misunderstanding thi. Aur aap agar unke nazariye se dekhe toh unhone kuch galat nahi kiya tha." Azlan explained, his tone softening as he tried to reason.

(That was a misunderstanding. And if you see things from her perspective, she didn’t do anything wrong.)

Naziya scoffed, unconvinced. "Yeh baat logo se kahiye jo ab tak iss barey mein baat kar rahe hain,"

(Tell that to the people who are still talking about it.)

“Mujhe farq nahi parhta. Main Rubab se shadi karna chahta hoon. Logo ki baat ka kya hai, do din karenge phir bhool jayenge," Azlan stated firmly, his resolve unwavering.

(I don’t care. I want to marry Rubab. People will talk for a couple of days and then forget about it.)

“Azlan, sach sach bataiye, kya woh wakai apko pasand hai ya aap sirf apni ana ke liye..." Naziya looked at her son, her heart heavy with disbelief.

(Azlan, tell me honestly, do you really like her, or is it just your ego driving this decision?)

Azlan’s face hardened, the light in his eyes dimming as he met his mother’s gaze.

“Aap aisa samajhti hain mujhe?" Azlan was hurt that his mother could think such a thing about him.

(Is that what you think of me?)

“Toh phir apko achanak se woh itni achhi kyu lag gayi? Mana ki khandani hai, khoobsurat hai, lekin aaj tak apne jaisi larki ka zikar kiya, waisi toh bilkul nahi." Naziya Khan’s tone was weary; she couldn’t understand her son’s sudden change of heart. Azlan had always been different, difficult to figure out.

(Then why all of a sudden do you think she’s so perfect? I agree she’s from a good family, and she’s beautiful, but she’s nothing like the kind of girl you’ve talked about before.)

Indeed, all the qualities Azlan had ever envisioned in his future wife weren’t present in Rubab.

Yes, she was beautiful, no doubt about it, but Azlan wasn't the type to be easily impressed by looks alone. He valued intelligence, depth, and wisdom—qualities Rubab, in his eyes, seemed to lack. Compared to what he wanted, she came off as immature. And after what happened yesterday, Azlan had every right to be mad at her. And he was. Yet, somehow, just seeing her brought a strange sense of calm he couldn’t explain.

And now, the sudden proposal from Anas—that thought alone was enough to unsettle his heart. Expectations? Ideals? All of it seemed to slip from his mind.

Azlan looked away for a moment, gathering his thoughts. “Ammi, mujhe nahi pata, aap bas mamu se baat karein humare rishte ki nahi toh main abbu se iss silsile mein baat kar lunga."

(Ammi, I don’t know. Just talk to Uncle about our marriage. If not, I’ll speak to abbu myself.)

“Koi sharm haya hai ki nahi? Apni shadi ki baat khud apne abbu se karenge aap?"

(Do you have no shame? Are you going to discuss your marriage with your father yourself?)

“Toh phir aap baat kar lijiye. Yeh mera akhiri faisla hai." Azlan’s words lingered in the air as he walked away.

(Then you talk to him. This is my final decision.)

Naziya Khan held her head in disbelief. This boy was truly different. If Huzaifa were in his place, he would never go against his mother’s decision. Even Shahzain eventually listened to his mother. But Azlan, once he made a decision, stuck to it, and it was always Naziya and Behroz who had to adjust according to his choices.

Naziya Khan sat still for a moment, the quiet of the night suddenly overwhelming. She slowly rose from her seat, moving towards the bed where the old rotary phone sat on the side table. The metal felt cold against her fingers as she picked it up and dialed her husband’s number, her fingers moving quickly over the numbers.

After a few rings, Behroz Khan answered, his voice low and groggy. "Begum, khairiyat? Iss waqt call kar rahi hain aap?"

(Wife, is everything okay? Why are you calling at this time?)

"Apke laad sahab ne kuch bhi khair rehne kaha diya?" She struggled to keep her voice steady, her frustration barely contained.

(Did your beloved son leave any peace for me to call at a normal time?)

"Ab kya kar diya Shahzain ne?" Without missing a beat, he asked. Instantly, his mind gravitated towards his younger son, who had a penchant for finding trouble. The possibility of Shahzain being involved was a reflexive thought born from past experiences.

(What has Shahzain done now?)

"Shahzain ki baat nahi kar rahe hum. Shahzain toh ghar pe Masha'Allah se bohot zimmedari se Hamna aur Rukhsar ka khayal rakh rahe hain apki aur humari gair moujudgi mein." Offended by Behroz's immediate assumption, Naziya quickly defended Shahzain.

(I'm not talking about Shahzain. He’s been wonderfully taking care of Hamna and Rukhsar in our absence.)

"Achha theek hai, usne kuch nahi kiya. Toh konse laad sahab ne meri Begum ko gussa dilaya?" Behroz, realizing his mistake, tried to pacify her.

(Okay, so he hasn’t done anything. So which beloved son of mine has angered you this time?)

"Azlan. Keh rahe hain Rubab se shadi karni hai unhe." Naziya took a deep breath before revealing Azlan's decision.

(Azlan. He said he wants to marry Rubab.)

"Wakai? Mubarak ho, unko bhi koi pasand ayi." Behroz was silent for a moment before he responded, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.

(Really? Congratulations, he finally likes someone!)

However, Naziya's tone turned stern as she responded, "Isme khush hone wali koi baat nahi, hume Rubab nahi pasand."

(There's nothing to be happy about this. I don't like Rubab.)

"Kyu? Riyaz ki sabse choti beti haina? Kya masla hai?" Unable to understand Naziya's point, Behroz asked.

(Why not? Isn’t she Riyaz’s youngest daughter? What’s the issue?)

Naziya hesitated for a moment, considering whether to disclose the incident of Rubab slapping Azlan. But in front of Behroz, she didn’t want to tarnish her family's honor; she had to uphold the respect of her maternal home. That’s why Naziya chose not to mention the incident that happened yesterday.

"Humne apko bataya toh tha hume Noor pasand hai," Naziya Khan spoke in softer voice now.

(I already told you, I like Noor.)

A silence settled between them, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Behroz spoke, "Shadi ke liye larka larki ka ek dusre ko pasand karna zyada zaroori hai. Aur phir apne Noor ke liye koi baat toh nahi ki?"

(For marriage, it’s more important that the boy and girl like each other. Besides, have you made any official proposal for Noor?)

Naziya shook her head, "Aap ajaye tab hum koi faisla lenge. Ek baar aap bhi mil lijiye Rubab aur Noor se."

(When you come here, we can decide. You should meet both Rubab and Noor.)

"Milna kya hai, Riyaz ki beti hai woh, issey barhke kya wajahat chahiye. Aur phir bete ki khushi se barhke toh kuch nahi ho sakta hai." Behroz, brushing aside her concerns, asserted. "Aap Noor ke barey mein sochna band karein toh shayad apko bhi Rubab mein woh khoobi dikhegi jo Azlan ne dekhi." Behroz’s voice was soft, offering a calming perspective.

(What’s there to meet? She’s Riyaz’s daughter. What more credibility do you need? And nothing’s more important than our son’s happiness.)

(If you stop thinking about Noor, maybe you’ll also see the good qualities in Rubab that Azlan has seen.)

Naziya sighed, knowing Behroz had a point, even if she wasn’t ready to accept it just yet. “Theek hai,” she said softly, before hanging up the phone.

(Alright,)

As she sat back, lost in thought, she realized that she would need to have another conversation with Azlan—this time, perhaps, with a more open mind.

•••

Today, there was a flurry of activity in the Shahana Imarath. After all, it was the wedding day. The wedding was taking place at home. The groom's party was to stay in the men's section, while the nikah ceremony would be held in the women's area.

Everyone was running around, busy with various tasks—someone needed to iron clothes, someone else was looking for shoe polish, some were concerned about the food, and a woman was searching for her child.

The kitchen was especially chaotic as they had to prepare breakfast before anything else. Although they had a chef for all three meals, Abeera Phuppo followed a special diet, so Mahajbeen was currently cooking for her. She had two daughters-in-law and two daughters, along with household help, yet she chose to do all the work herself. She wanted to keep her mind occupied, to avoid being consumed by her thoughts.

"Ruby, jao yeh nashta apni Abeera dadi ko de aao." Mahajbeen said as she neatly arranged breakfast on a tray and handed it to Rubab.

(Ruby, take this breakfast to your Abeera dadi.)

"Please hume unke paas mat bhejiye." Rubab responded pitifully while pouring tea, but when Mahajbeen gave her a stern look, she lowered her head in defeat.

(Please don’t send me to her.)

"Konse kamre mein hain woh?" Rubab asked while picking up the tray.

(Which room is she in?)

"Shireen ke kamre mein." Mahajbeen replied, and Rubab nodded before starting to leave. But she turned back again.

(In Shireen’s room.)

"Humare kamre mein kon ruka hai?" Rubab was worried about her room. It held precious things, like her books, and she was afraid that a mischievous child might ruin them.

(Who’s staying in my room?)

"Humara bhoot." Mahajbeen, who had been frazzled since morning, couldn't help but scoff at Rubab's question.

(My ghost,)

This time, Rubab made a fully displeased face and left the kitchen.

"Kya ho gaya, Amma?" Shireen asked gently.

(What’s wrong, Amma?)

"Kaam dekh rahi hain kitna hai? Aur iss larki ko ulte seedhe sawal se fursat nahi." Mahajbeen, now annoyed, started washing the dishes in the sink.

(There's so much work there is, and this girl is asking nonsense questions.)

"Chorein aap, yeh sab hota rahega. Aap thori derr Anisa ke paas chali jaye." Shireen understood her mother’s emotions and softly held her hand.

(Leave it, it’s fine. Go spend some time with Anisa for a while.)

Mahajbeen's beautiful blue eyes were indeed misty at the thought of her daughter’s departure. They had all been so busy ensuring that the wedding was perfect, but now that the day had arrived, her heart ached at the thought of her daughter’s rukhsati. Anisa wasn’t going far—her in-laws were just two streets away—but still, after marriage, things change. Daughters become guests in their own homes.

Mahajbeen wiped her tears with her dupatta and went outside.

•••

Naziya Khan had offered to help Mahajbeen many times, suggesting she let her handle some of the tasks, but Mahajbeen wouldn’t allow her to lift a finger. Exhausted, Naziya finally retreated to Abeera’s room to sit.

Naziya and Abeera were engaged in casual conversation, when there was a knock on the door.

"Ajao," Abeera said, and Rubab entered.

(Come in.)

Seeing Rubab reminded Naziya of Azlan’s words—pretty, well-mannered, and considerate. Naziya had noticed how Rubab ran around the house, always busy helping with one thing or another, not even bothering about her own preparations for the event. Still, Naziya Khan couldn’t accept the fact Azlan wants to marry her.

"Assalam-Alaikum," Rubab greeted as she set the breakfast on the table.

"Larki, tumne mehendi nahi lagayi?" Abeera asked in surprise, noticing her empty hands.

(Girl, why haven’t you applied henna?)

Rubab hadn’t applied mehendi, though there were faint traces of it on her hands, likely from applying it to someone else.

"Time hi nahi mila. Aur jab mila toh sab thake hue the toh kisi se humne kaha hi nahi." Rubab explained as she set the plates and poured two cups of tea.

(I didn’t get the time. And when I did, everyone was too tired, so I didn’t ask anyone.)

"Laga lena tha, mehendi wale hath achhe lagte hain." Now it was Rubab’s turn to be surprised. Just the other day, Abeera had scolded her for wearing flower jewelry during the mayoon, and now she was saying she should have applied mehendi.

(You should have applied it. Henna-covered hands look lovely.)

"Hume bhi bohot pasand hai, khaskar uski khushbu." Rubab said with a bit of warmth, feeling more comfortable now.

(I love it too, especially its fragrance.)

"Aunty, chai," Rubab offered, turning to Naziya. With so many guests around, Rubab was forgetting who's Phuppo, who was Mami, and who's Khala, so she was calling everyone "Aunty."

"Shukriya," Naziya replied with a formal tone, still not fully accepting Rubab. She couldn’t understand how Azlan could easily forget everything and consider marrying this girl.

(Thanks,)

"Dadi jaan, hum jaye?" Rubab asked Abeera.

(Dadi jaan, may I go?)

"Haan, jao,"

(Yes, go ahead.)

Once Rubab left, Abeera turned to Naziya. "Badi pyari bachhi hai, bas zuban ki thori tezz hai. Lekin shadi ke baad khud hi narmi ajati hai larkiyon mein. Maa baap ke ghar hi bachhiya itni shokh aur chanchal rehti hain bas." Abeera said thoughtfully.

(She’s a very sweet girl, just a bit sharp-tongued. But after marriage, girls naturally become more mellow. It’s only in their parents’ home that they remain playful and carefree.)

"Allah har larki ka naseeb achha banaye." Naziya’s heart sank at Abeera’s words. She, too, had a daughter, and thoughts of her future often left her anxious and constantly praying for her happiness.

(May Allah bless every girl with a good fate.)

"Ameen."

"Naziya," Abeera called out just as Naziya Khan was taking a sip of tea, her eyes cast downward. Naziya looked up at her with a questioning gaze.

"Yaha se jab jana, toh koi bhi gila leke mat jana. Bachhi se wakai mein anjane mein hua sab, warna uska maksad kisiki touheen karna nahi tha." Abeera said softly. It was a simple statement, nothing profound, but it opened up a flood of thoughts for Naziya.

(When you leave here, don’t hold onto any grudges. The girl made a genuine mistake unknowingly. Her intention wasn’t to insult anyone.)

Just three days ago, she had admired Rubab’s innocence and playfulness. She had even considered that if Azlan hadn’t made such a long list of criteria for his ideal match, she would’ve proposed Rubab for him. Now, because of one misunderstanding, one mistake, was she really going to let such a good match slip away? Especially when Azlan himself seemed interested, and his happiness lay in this. Naziya finished her tea and decided she would discuss this with Mahajbeen after Anisa’s wedding.

•••

At the wedding, Naziya kept Rubab in her line of sight. Rubab, who had dressed to perfection for the Mayoon and Mehendi, had chosen a much simpler look today. She wore a royal blue, floor-length anarkali that reached her feet, revealing just a glimpse of her jutti beneath. The dress had sheer sleeves, and perhaps that’s why she wore no jewelry on her wrists except for a single ring. Unlike the earlier functions, she hadn’t worn any bangles. Her hair was braided into a neat French braid that fell to her waist, with no other hair accessories. Not only Naziya, but even Nighat and Abeera were surprised by her simplicity.

Given how she had dressed for the previous two functions, they had expected her to choose something more vibrant today, something that would make her look as striking as the bride.

"Aaj aap bohot pyari lag rahi hain." Abeera complimented sincerely, and Rubab’s face lit up with a shy smile. Unlike the earlier functions where the gathering was small and homely, today’s wedding had separate spaces for men and women, but Rubab had dressed more modestly for the larger gathering. Though carefree and playful at home, Rubab always carried herself with grace in front of guests.

(You look very pretty today.)

"Kawariya larkiyan aise hi taiyyar hue achhi lagti haina?" Rubab leaned in slightly and asked. Abeera lightly tapped her head with a laugh.

(That’s how unmarried girls should be dressed up, right?)

"Apki zuban ka lekin kuch nahi ho sakta." Abeera joked. Rubab laughed and moved on, heading toward the room where Anisa was, as she had been assigned to assist her.

(But there’s no hope for that sharp tongue of yours.)

•••

Azlan, too, had dressed differently today, standing apart from his casual look at the previous functions. Since arriving, he had mostly been wearing sweaters and casual pants. But for today’s wedding, he had chosen a traditional black shalwar kameez, paired with a cream-colored shawl.

"Ab Azlan ke liye bhi aap kuch soch lijiye," Abeera phuppo suggested to Naziya, her eyes following Azlan as he walked by.

(You should start thinking about Azlan's marriage now.)

"Hum soch rahe the ki..." Naziya began but paused, checking to ensure no one was nearby. "Hum Rubab ke barey mein soch rahe the," she admitted quietly. There was no harm in seeking advice from Abeera, given she was her elder.

(I was thinking that...)

(I was thinking about Rubab,)

If Naziya’s mother-in-law had been alive, she would’ve consulted her on such matters, but now these decisions rested on her shoulders. She couldn’t seek advice from her sisters-in-law, as she still felt embarrassed after rejecting a good proposal from their side. Behroz Khan had left these matters to her, and Naziya felt it appropriate to discuss this with Abeera phuppo.

"Masha'Allah, yeh toh bada neik khayal hai," Abeera phuppo responded immediately. "Dono ka jod achha hoga, waise bhi Rubab ko dekhiye sabse choti hai phir bhi ghar ko kitne achhe se sambhala hua hai, aur milansaar bhi hai, apke khandan mein achhe se mil jul jayegi,"

(Masha’Allah, that’s a wonderful thought.)

(They make a good pair, and Rubab is the youngest, yet she manages the house so well. She’s sociable too; she’ll easily blend into your family.)

Abeera, who had been complaining about Rubab’s sharp retorts over the past few days, now found herself praising her wholeheartedly, bringing a smile to Naziya’s face.

•••

The entire neighborhood was buzzing with excitement, as the sounds of dhol and fireworks filled the air. The baraat had arrived, and the energy was contagious. Elegantly dressed women were the first to enter, their steps graceful, exuding an air of sophistication. After all, they were from the groom’s side—there had to be a bit of pride. The young men, equally well-dressed and dashing, scanned the scene, as if their style alone would make every girl present swoon. Meanwhile, children, upon entering the mansion, immediately began running around. Some were pulling off flowers from the decorations, while others were showing off their dancing skills to the beat of the dhol.

Rubab, busy with her friends, was serving almond and saffron milk to the guests when she felt a slight tug at her pallu from behind. Turning around, she found a little boy, dressed in a miniature three-piece suit, clutching her pallu with his tiny hands.

"Apko chahiye?" Rubab asked sweetly, bending down to his level. The boy shook his head, his expression serious.

(You want something?)

"Apko woh bula rahe hain," he said, pointing towards the outside.

(He's calling you,)

Rubab narrowed her eyes in confusion. "Kon?" She glanced in the direction he was pointing, then back at him.

(Who?)

"Woh," the boy repeated, though it was clear he didn’t actually know who 'he' was.

(He,)

"Theek hai," Rubab nodded, placing the tray on a nearby table before making her way to the hallway. She noticed someone waiting there—Anas.

(Olay,)

Her mood shifted instantly, annoyance flickering in her eyes. So, it was him who called her out here.

"Apne bulaya hume?" she asked, not moving any closer. Anas stepped forward instead.

(You called me?)

"Nahi, maine Lubna ko bulaya tha," Anas clarified, sensing her irritation. "Shayad bachhe se galti ho gayi..."

(No, actually, I called Lubna,)

(The kid must have confused things...)

Rubab raised an eyebrow, skeptical but wanting to end the interaction. "Hum Lubna ko bhejte hain," she said, although what she really wanted to say was that his behavior was utterly inappropriate. But she decided against making a scene in front of the baraatis. She turned to leave when Anas called out again.

(I'll send Lubna over.)

"Rubab," he hurried after her. "Lubna ko rehne do, bahar kuch aur glass bhejwa do."

(Just send more glasses for the guests, that's all.)

Rubab's frustration quickly turned into embarrassment, as she realised she had misunderstood the whole thing.

"Ji bhejwate hain," she muttered, avoiding his gaze, and quickly walked away.

(Alright,)

At that moment, Azlan entered from the main gate, sent by Anwar for some task. He spotted Rubab heading inside and saw Anas standing not far behind. His expression darkened with distaste. Why was Rubab always talking to everyone? She could scold Azlan over a small misunderstanding, but with Anas, she didn’t seem to put him in his place.

Anas noticed Azlan but didn’t think much of it, turning to leave until Azlan’s voice stopped him.

"Anas," Azlan walked right up to him. Though Anas was a good-looking man, his presence seemed to shrink in front of Azlan’s tall and commanding figure.

"Shadi ka ghar hai isliye koi kuch keh nahi raha, lekin iska yeh hargiz matlab nahi aap ghar ki khawateen se bewajah mukhatib ho." Azlan’s tone was firm, laced with warning.

(It’s a wedding, and no one wants to make a scene. But that doesn’t mean you can just talk to the women of this house without reason.)

Anas didn’t like Azlan’s words. "Woh meri hone wali biwi hai," he said, motioning towards where Rubab had just left.

(She’s my future wife,)

Azlan clenched his fist, glaring at Anas with such intensity that Anas visibly faltered. "Galat fehmi hai apki, unse durr rahiye apke liye behtar rahega," Azlan warned before walking off.

(You’re mistaken. Stay away from her if you know what’s good for you,)

Anas had been a thorn in his side ever since yesterday. Azlan was resolved to speak to Naziya Begum again today. If she kept thinking, someone else might just slip that ring on Rubab’s finger before it was too late.

•••

The nikkah had taken place smoothly, and soon after, the commotion of the rukhsati began. It was the cold season, and the night descended quickly, wrapping everything in its quiet chill.

After the rukhsati, a wave of sadness swept over everyone. Just yesterday, the house had been full of laughter, bustling with energy and excitement. Now, all of a sudden, it felt empty and quiet.

Rubab, since the rukhsati, hadn’t left Mahajbeen’s side. Mahajbeen, too, clung to her, as if drawing comfort from Rubab’s presence.

•••

The next day arrived quietly, with a chill still lingering in the morning air. Despite the sadness from the previous night, Shahana Imarath was now buzzing with a new energy. Everyone was busy preparing for the tradition of taking breakfast to Anisa's in-laws' house, as part of the customary rituals. The women were bustling in the kitchen, ensuring that everything was perfect.

Trays were being filled with fresh parathas, curries, and sweets, while others packed thermos flasks of hot tea. The delicious scent of freshly made halwa spread through the house, bringing some warmth to the otherwise somber atmosphere.

Rubab had been helping alongside the others, carefully arranging plates and making sure nothing was forgotten.

But when she finally got ready and came downstairs to leave with everyone, Raza cancelled her plan.

“Parso paper hai tumhara, aj free ho toh uski taiyyari karo, warna kal phir walime ki wajah se nahi parhogi,” Raza said bluntly, not caring who was around or who could hear him. His words stung, especially in front of everyone.

(You have an exam the day after tomorrow. Since you’re free today, start studying. You won’t get time tomorrow because of the walima,)

Rubab's excitement to be part of the family gathering evaporated. She fiddled with the edge of her dupatta, the embarrassment flushing her cheeks as she lowered her gaze.

"Kya hua hai? Ab tak taiyyar nahi hue kya sab?" Nawab Riyaz asked, coming in just then. He had been waiting outside for a while; the breakfast had already been loaded into the car, but the family still wasn’t ready to leave.

(What’s going on? Is everyone ready yet?)

Riyaz's eyes landed on Rubab, taking in her downcast expression.

"Rubab, chaliye, aap mere sath car mein baithe," he said gently, his voice cutting through the air with calm authority.

(Rubab, come with me. Sit in the car,)

“Abba, inki parhai...” Raza’s voice trailed off as Riyaz waved him away, dismissing the argument with a firm gesture.

(But, Abba, she has to study…)

“Waha bas jayegi, nashta karwa ke ajayenge, akey parh lengi yeh.” Riyaz replied, his tone final. Rubab’s heart lifted as she quickly moved to his side, feeling a sense of relief that her father had come to her rescue.

(She’ll just go for breakfast, and we’ll return right after. She’ll have time to study,)

Raza had no choice but to walk away, and as soon as he left, a small smile appeared on Rubab’s face. “Thank you, Baba,” she whispered gratefully.

Her father placed a reassuring hand on her head, and together, they walked outside.

As they left for Anisa’s in-laws, the house behind them quieted down again. Rubab, happy with the thought of meeting Anisa, had no idea what was about to unfold behind her.

•••

Mahajbeen, Ayesha, and Shireen stayed back to look at the guests. The kothi had become a central hub during the wedding, with people coming and going constantly. Now, with most of the guests departed, it felt oddly still

"Bhabhi, apse kuch baat karni thi," Naziya began softly when they found a moment alone in the sitting room. Mahajbeen raised an eyebrow, setting down her cup of tea.

(Bhabhi, can I talk to you about something?)

She had thought of discussing this matter at her own home, but Azlan had been impatient. He’d come to her room the night before, making it clear that he intended to finalize the proposal for Rubab as soon as possible. Naziya couldn’t understand why Azlan was in such a hurry.

“Kya hua?”

(What’s the matter?)

“Azlan ke liye hume Rubab pasand ayi hain,” Naziya hesitated for a moment before gathering the courage to speak.

(I really like Rubab for Azlan,)

“Humari Ruby?” Mahajbeen blinked, caught off guard.

(My Ruby?)

Naziya smiled, knowing how surprised her sister-in-law would be. “Ji, bhabhi, apki Ruby. Hume toh woh pehli nazar mein hi bohot achhi lagi thi, haan apko Azlan ki taraf se kuch maloon karwana hai toh apni tafteesh karwa lein.”

(Yes, your Ruby. I liked her from the very first time I saw her. Yes, if you’d like to check with Azlan, feel free.)

“Nahi, kaisi baat kar rahi hain aap, Azlan toh ghar ka bachha hai... bas uss din jo hua...” Mahajbeen trailed off, feeling a bit embarrassed.

(No, of course. Azlan is like a child of this house... it’s just that after what happened that day...)

Naziya waved it off with a gentle laugh. “Woh toh galat fehmi thi, hume ussey koi farq nahi parhta. Rubab hume achhi lagi, ab ap bhaijaan se puchke apna jawab dein, aur hum na nahi sunege.”

(That was just a misunderstanding. It doesn’t matter to us. I like Rubab. You just speak with Bhaijaan, but I won’t take no for an answer,)

Mahajbeen sat back, absorbing the news. There was truly no real reason to refuse, after all. Even though the families didn’t meet frequently, they weren’t strangers. In the past three days, Mahajbeen had seen how kind and respectful Azlan was. Given what Rubab had done, anyone else might have made a huge issue out of it, but Azlan hadn’t complained to anyone. The idea of her youngest daughter marrying into a respected family like theirs brought a small smile to Mahajbeen's face. She just needed to speak to her husband.

•••

Rubab, completely oblivious to the events happening downstairs, returned from Anisa’s house in high spirits. The morning chill had faded, replaced by the warmth of moments spent with her sister.

She changed into more comfortable clothes, intending to study, but her mind wandered, and she soon found herself drifting into sleep, completely unaware of the monumental decision being discussed downstairs.

The house, once alive with the excitement of Anisa’s wedding, now felt quieter, yet it held an undercurrent of anticipation—something Rubab was blissfully unaware of.

•••

Rubab was jolted awake by someone shaking her. She blinked, disoriented, and found Shireen standing beside her bed.

“Billi, ab uth bhi jao!” Shireen said, shaking her again, trying to wake her up from her sleepy state.

(Billi, wake up now!)

Rubab quickly sat up, her eyes wide as she reached for the book lying beside her. “Hum... Hum parhai hi kar rahe the,” she stammered, trying to cover up the fact that she had dozed off in the middle of studying.

(I… I was studying,)

Before she could hold on to the book any longer, Ayesha, who had just entered the room, snatched it out of her hands. “Parhai chorho, abhi aur bhi zaroori cheezein hain,” she said with a playful yet knowing smile.

(Forget studying, there are more important things right now,)

Rubab looked between her sister and sister-in-law, her confusion growing. “Kya hua?” she whispered, sensing something unusual in the air.

(What happened?)

Without a word, Shireen handed her a beautiful peach-colored dress, intricately embroidered with silver and gold threads. Rubab's eyes widened as she held it up, admiring the delicate work.

“Yeh lijiye, aur taiyyar ho jaiye,” Shireen ordered her, the tone leaving no room for debate.

(Here, take this and get ready,)

“Yeh kitna pyara joda hai. Lekin taiyyar kyu hona hai?” Rubab asked, her admiration momentarily distracting her from the growing tension.

(This outfit is so beautiful. But why do I need to get ready?)

Ayesha and Shireen exchanged a knowing glance before Shireen spoke casually, “Tumhari mangni hai.”

(You’re getting engaged.)

“Achha,” Rubab said, still lost in the beauty of the dress, but when the words sank in, her smile faded as realization hit her.

(Okay,)

“Kya!?” Rubab asked, looking from Shireen to Ayesha, hoping one of them would tell her it was a joke.

(What!?)

“Aap... aap log mazak kar rahi haina?” she stuttered, throwing the dress away as if it had burned her. The news certainly had.

(You... you all are joking, right?)

“Hum aisa mazak kyu karenge? Wakai tumhari mangni hai. Ab utho aur jaldi taiyyar ho,” Shireen said, picking up the discarded dress and handing it back to her. She then pulled Rubab up, almost forcing her to get out of bed.

(Why would we joke about something like this? It's really your engagement. Now get up and get ready quickly,)

“Lekin aise achanak? Yeh kab hua? Abhi toh Anisa apa ki shadi hui hai aur aap log....” Rubab continued to ramble while Shireen and Ayesha had already taken her comforter away and pushed her toward the washroom.

(But so suddenly? When did this happen? Anisa apa just got married and now you all are….)

•••

“Yeh humari mangni kaha se agayi? Kabse pak rahi hai yeh khichdi aur hume bataya bhi nahi?” Rubab sat in front of the mirror, her confusion evident in her eyes, as Shireen and Ayesha hurriedly helped her get ready. Her complaints continued non-stop.

(Where did this engagement come from? How long has this been cooking, and you didn’t even tell me?)

“Ab khamoshi se baithna tum, Rubab,” Shireen gave her a final warning. “Aur khabardaar itni baatein bahar ki. Mana sab ghar ke hain lekin sharm o haya bhi koi cheez hoti hai.”

(Now be quiet and sit still, Rubab,)

(And don't talk so much outside. It's true that everyone here is family, but some decorum should still be maintained.)

“Toh hume puri baat toh bataiye,” Rubab asked again, feeling utterly lost in all the suddenness. It wasn’t that she hadn’t thought about marriage like other girls. She had her own dreams and expectations about her future partner. But a sudden engagement? It was overwhelming, and she couldn’t understand what had unfolded behind her back.

(So at least tell me the whole story,)

"Hum toh kehte hain inke munh pe tape lagake ghoonghat daal dete hain. Koi puchega toh keh denge humare yaha mangni pe bhi dulhan ghoonghat leti hai." Ayesha suggested as she arranged Rubab's dupatta on her head, making Rubab sulk.

(I say we should just tape her mouth shut and cover her head with veil. If anyone asks, we can say that brides wear veils even during engagements in our culture!)

Once her makeup was done, Shireen stepped back, allowing Rubab to see herself.

The soft peache dress she wore was an elegant ensemble adorned with intricate golden embroidery that shimmered with every subtle movement she made. The heavy embroidery work along the neckline and borders of her dupatta gave the outfit an almost royal charm, yet it was still delicate enough to retain its softness.

Her skin glowing, a light flush enhancing her natural beauty. Her makeup was subtle but flawless—rosy cheeks, lightly kohl-lined eyes that gave her a soft look, and just a hint of shimmer on her lids that made her eyes sparkle with the curiosity that bubbled within her. Her lips were a soft shade of pink.

A delicate maang tikka rested on her forehead, its gold chain blending into her softly styled hair, while the pendant glittered right above her brows, highlighting her features. Her hair was parted in the middle, falling in loose waves down her back, a style that added to her soft and innocent appeal. The gold bangles on her wrists jingled lightly with every movement.

"Arey! Lekin humari mangni ho kissey rahi hai?" The realization struck her suddenly, and she raised her head to look at them, who merely smacked their heads.

(Wait! But who am I actually getting engaged to?)

"Wakai ghoonghat daal dena chahiye," Shireen remarked tiredly.

(Honestly, you should wear a veil,)

"Azlan se ho rahi hai apki mangni," Ayesha replied with a teasing smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

(Your engagement is with Azlan,)

"Ruby taiyyar hui?" At that moment, Yasmine entered the room, redirecting Shireen and Ayesha's attention to her. Ayesha moved closer to Yasmine, explaining that Rubab was ready. However, no one noticed the confusion in Rubab's eyes as she pondered. "Kon Azlan?"

(Is Ruby ready?)

(Who’s Azlan?)

•••

When it comes to studies, I'm Rubab. Honestly aisi neend sleeping pills mein nahi jitna course ki book mein hai😭

Why does it feel like I'm updating after ages? Halaki ig 10 din pehle Taabindagi kiya tha update haina?

And before you all ask, let me tell you, after this, I'll post ALTU, then Taabindagi, and then, Insha'Allah, Tumse Milke. That's the plan. Baki mere mind ko aap sab jante ho, idhar udhar nikal jata hai, mere control mein nahi😭

Khair, how's the update? Vote aur comment karke jana, aise khali peeli parhke jana achha lagta hai? 🤨🤨

-Ufaq