Oho, double update 🤭🎉 enjoy 😁

•••

Zara stood in front of the mirror, her fingers deftly working through her hair as she prepared herself for the day ahead. The weight of the previous night's events hung heavily on her heart, her eyes dull, and her movements slow.

A knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts. Zara took a deep breath, steeling herself before answering. "Ajao,"

(Come in,)

The door opened to reveal Kubra, her face alight with a cheerful smile. "Good morning, Bhabhi jaan, kya haal hai?" She greeted warmly, stepping forward to hug her.

(Good morning, bhabhi dear, how are you?)

"Good morning," Zara replied, her voice soft as she returned the hug. The embrace was a small comfort, a reminder that not everyone was upset with her.

Kubra pulled back slightly, her eyes scanning Zara's face. "Kya hua, Zara? Tum pareshaan lag rahi ho."

(What happened, Zara? You seem troubled.)

Zara forced a smile, shaking her head. "Kuch nahi bas... tumne bhabhi kaha toh achanak ehsas hua ab rishte badal gaye hain."

(Nothing... just... when you called me bhabhi, I suddenly realized that relationships have changed.)

Kubra nodded, understanding. "Koi rishte nahi badle, tum pehle bhi meri bohot achhi dost thi aur abhi bhi. Past mein jo kuch bhi hua hai ussey mat yaad karo, Zara." She gave Zara's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Waise phuppa phuppi nashta leke aaye hain, sab tumhara wait kar rahe hain, chalo."

(No relationships have changed. You were my very good friend before, and you still are. Don't remember whatever happened in the past, Zara.)

(By the way, Phuppa and Phuppi have brought breakfast; everyone is waiting for you. Let's go.)

Zara's heart lightened at the thought of her parents. She followed Kubra out of the room, grateful for the small distraction. As they walked through the house, Zara felt the familiar comfort of home start to seep back in, despite the heaviness in her chest.

Entering the dining area, Zara's eyes immediately found Shahzaib. He was sitting with Burhan engaged in what seemed to be a pleasant conversation. Her father looked content, a peaceful smile on his face as he spoke.

Zara took a deep breath, resolving not to let anyone know the turmoil inside her. She needed to keep up appearances for the sake of her parents. As she approached Minal, who was busy arranging the breakfast, she forced another smile.

"Assalam-Alaikum," she greeted softly, sitting down next to her. Minal turned, her eyes warm with love and concern.

"Walekum-Assalam, kaisi ho?" she asked, placing a gentle hand on her daughter's cheek.

(How are you?)

Zara managed to keep her voice steady and cheerful. "Aap bataiye kaisi lag rahi hoon?"

(You tell me, how do I look?)

"Bohot pyari," Minal said lovingly.

(Very beautiful,)

As breakfast continued, Zara kept her focus on her family. She laughed at Uswa's jokes, nodded at her mother's advice, and engaged in conversation with Kubra and Hyra. All the while, she was acutely aware of Shahzaib's presence, his eyes on her, but she kept her distance, avoiding his gaze.

•••

Unlike the wedding, the walima was not a simple affair. It was his only brother's wedding, and Hayder had made sure nothing was lacking.

As the celebrations wound down, Shahzaib was ready to return to Australia. He had only come for a week's leave, but the fact that he was leaving so soon after the wedding didn't sit well with anyone. Hanif Mirza openly expressed his displeasure.

"Ab tum bas waha ki job chorho aur yahi raho." Hanif Mirza ordered him, his voice tinged with frustration.

(Now you just leave that job there and stay here.)

Shahzaib, Hayder, and Hanif Mirza gathered in the living room, the atmosphere heavy with the impending separation.

"Baba, main contract pe hoon, aise hi quit nahi kar sakta," Shahzaib explained, though he didn't meet his grandfather's eyes.

(Baba, I am on a contract, I can't just quit like that.)

"Job nahi chorh sakte lekin biwi ko aise chorhke ja rahe ho. Abhi tumhari shadi ko 2 hi din hua hai, Zara kya sochegi?" Hanif Mirza asked, shaking his head.

(You can't leave your job, but you are leaving your wife just like that. It's only been two days since your wedding, what will Zara think?)

Before Shahzaib could respond, Hayder spoke, his tone reassuring. "Baba, agar woh job quit kar bhi de phir bhi notice period pe rahega. Aap fikar na karein Zara ka passport ban jaye toh woh bhi Shahzaib ke paas chali jayegi."

(Baba, even if he quits the job, he will still have to serve the notice period. Don't worry, once Zara's passport is made, she will also go to Shahzaib.)

Hanif Mirza looked between his grandsons, his expression softening slightly. "Ab tum log ne sab soch hi liya hai toh main kya kahu. Toh kal hi jana hai?"

(You all have already decided everything, so what can I say? So, you have to leave tomorrow?)

Shahzaib nodded.

Zara was looking at them from the kitchen when Kubra entered the kitchen.

"Zara, tum kyu chai bana rahi thi mujhe keh deti main bana deti." Kubra was in the room with Hyra, and when she came out, the maid informed her that Zara was making tea. So, she went straight to the kitchen.

(Zara, why were you making tea? You could have told me, I would have made it.)

"Chai hi toh hai. Maine tumhare aur Hyra ke liye bhi banayi hai. Socha teeno sath mein baithke piyenge." Zara said quietly, smiling her.

(It's just tea. I made it for you and Hyra too. I thought we three could sit and drink together.)

"Mere aur Hyra ke sath tum baad mein bhi chai pi sakti ho. Filhal Shahzaib ke sath piyo waise bhi kal ja raha hai."

(You can drink tea with Hyra and me later. For now, drink it with Shahzaib since he is leaving tomorrow.)

Zara forced a smile but didn't respond. She continued taking out the cups, her mind elsewhere. Kubra sensed something was off and gently nudged her.

"Kya hua? Shahzaib ja rahe hain iss wajah se upset ho?" Kubra asked, concern evident in her voice.

(What happened? Are you upset because Shahzaib is leaving?)

Zara paused, her hands trembling slightly as she held a cup. She couldn't hold back her feelings anymore and whispers. "Jinke sath rehne se farq nahi parhta unke jane se kya farq parhega?"

(If being with them doesn't make a difference, then why should their leaving matter?)

Kubra was taken aback by Zara's word. "Aisa kyu keh rahi ho? Kya hua?"

(Why are you talking like this? What happened?)

Instantly, Zara's eyes welled up with tears. "Tum log ko Shahzaib ke sath zabardasti nahi karni chahiye thi agar unhe shadi nahi karni thi. Mera talaq itni bhi badi baat nahi thi, logo ki baatein aaj nahi toh kal band ho jati, papa bhi theek ho jate. Main bhi khudko sambhal leti. Lekin ab Shahzaib ka sard rawaiyya mujhe maar dega main uska kya karu?"

(You all shouldn't have forced Shahzaib if he didn't want to marry. My divorce wasn't that big of a deal; people would have stopped talking about it eventually, and Papa would have been fine. I would have managed myself. But now, Shahzaib's cold behaviour will kill me. What should I do about it?)

Zara couldn't bear even those two days. The person whose eyes always reflected love, who was always around her like a beacon of light, had now changed. This change was extremely painful for her.

Kubra couldn't believe what Zara was saying; she stared at her in disbelief.

"Zara, hum mein se kisi ne Shahzaib ko force nahi kiya shadi ke liye tum kya keh rahi... Shahzaib ne kuch kaha hai kya tumse?"

(Zara, none of us forced Shahzaib to marry you. What are you saying... Did Shahzaib say something to you?)

Zara wiped her tears angrily. "Tum apne bhai se hi puchlo."

(Ask your brother yourself.)

Kubra felt a knot in her stomach. She had noticed the tension between Zara and Shahzaib. But she thought Zara might need time to process everything that had happened. Kubra never imagined that Shahzaib had made Zara feel unwanted. But why was Shahzaib acting this way?

•••

The house was quiet, and Shahzaib found himself in the living room, sitting on the couch at late hour.

"Shahzaib kal chala jayega toh ajaungi, aap kyu pareshaan ho rahe hain..." Kubra, who had been talking to Sarim on the phone in the hallway, noticed Shahzaib's solitary figure.

(When Shahzaib leaves tomorrow, I'll come. Why are you worrying...)

"Sarim, main apko baad mein call karti hoon." She ended the call and approached him, her footsteps light on the floor.

(Sarim, I'll call you later.)

"Shahzaib," she called softly.

He looked up, surprised to see her. "Kubra, tum? Ab tak soyi nahi?"

(Kubra, you? Haven't you slept yet?)

"Sarim se baat kar rahi thi. Tum kyu ab tak jag rahe ho?" She asked, sitting down beside him.

(I was talking to Sarim. Why are you still awake?)

"Bas aise hi."

(Just like that.)

"Chalo sahi hai, waise bhi mujhe tumse baat karni thi..."

(Alright, anyway, I needed to talk to you...)

Hayder, who was heading to the kitchen for water, saw them in the lounge and came over. "Tum log itni raat tak kyu jag rahe ho? Shahzaib, kal tumhari flight hai,"

(Why are you both awake so late? Shahzaib, you have a flight tomorrow.) 

"Bhai, main bas sone ja raha tha, Kubra ko kuch baat karni thi." Shahzaib deflected the conversation towards Kubra. Hearing this, Hayder also looked at Kubra to see what she wanted to talk about at this hour.

(Bhai, I was just going to sleep. Kubra wanted to talk about something.)

Kubra took a deep breath, deciding to dive straight into the matter. "Mujhe Zara ke barey mein baat karni thi."

(I wanted to talk about Zara.)

"Uske barey mein kya baat karni hai tumhe?" Kubra's words made Shahzaib defensive. Though Hayder seemed to understand where this conversation was going, he also sat on the single sofa.

(What do you want to talk about her?)

"Zara se shadi karne ke liye tumhe kisi ne force nahi kiya tha. Agar tum khush nahi the toh mana kar dete. Ab shadi ke baad tum Zara ko jaise treat kar rahe ho bohot galat hai." Kubra expressed what she felt. Despite Shahzaib being older, their bond was such that allowed Kubra to straightforwardly call out Shahzaib's wrongs.

(No one forced you to marry Zara. If you weren't happy, you should have refused. The way you are treating Zara after marriage is very wrong.)

"Zara ne kuch kaha hai tumse?" Shahzaib asked.

(Has Zara said something to you?)

"Zara kuch na bhi kahe, hume sab dikh raha hai, Shahzaib." Hayder said. Seeing the matter unfolding, he also thought of discussing it properly. "Main kuch bol nahi raha kyuki abhi tumhari shadi ko zyada waqt nahi hua, lekin tumhare behaviour ne wakai mujhe disappoint kiya hai. Isliye toh nahi manga tha Zara ko tumhare liye ki yaha akey woh aur takleef mein rahe."

(Even if Zara says nothing, we can all see it, Shahzaib.)

(I am not saying anything because it's not been long since your marriage, but your behaviour has really disappointed me. That's not why I asked for Zara's hand in marriage, for her to come here and suffer more.) 

"Aur problem hai kya? Tum toh pasand karte the Zara ko, ab achanak yeh..." Kubra wanted to understand Shahzaib's feelings.

(And what is the problem? You used to like Zara, and now suddenly this...)

"Meri problem yeh hai ki usne kisi aur se shadi karne ka socha bhi kaise. Woh toh achhe se janti thi meri feelings ka, kya Hamshad se shadi karte waqt ussey mera khayal nahi aya-"  Shahzaib expressed his turmoil.

(My problem is that she even thought of marrying someone else. She knew well about my feelings, didn't she think of me while marrying Hamshad-)

"Shahzaib, sharm karo apni biwi ka naam yun kisi aur ke sath jorh rahe ho." Hayder was now angry and immediately intervened. "Uske past mein jo bhi hua ho, woh ab tumhari biwi hai. Izzat karo uski aur apne rishte ki."

(Shahzaib, shame on you for associating your wife's name with someone else.)

(Whatever happened in her past, she is now your wife. Respect her and your relationship.)

Hayder's words made Shahzaib quiet again. Shahzaib couldn't bear Zara's name being associated with someone else. So, when Hayder asked about marriage, he agreed, knowing that if he didn't, Burhan would find another proposal for her, and he didn't want to lose Zara again. But he couldn't forget that Zara hadn't valued his feelings.

"Meri baat dhyan se suno tum, Zara ne wahi kiya jo uski jagah koi bhi larki karti, apne maa baap ki izzat rakhi. Woh toh khud tumhe pasand karti thi, aur abhi bhi karti hai." Kubra tried to explain calmly. Otherwise, Shahzaib's words had angered her too, but now was not the time to get angry; it was time to make Shahzaib understand everything so that he wouldn't ruin his life.

(Listen to me carefully, Zara did what any girl in her place would do. She upheld her parents' honour. She liked you and still does.)

"Lekin usne meri mohabbat ki insult ki thi, mujhe bhi ussey badla lena hai." Shahzaib said in a subdued tone, but his words surprised both Kubra and Hayder.

(But she insulted my love; I need to take revenge on her.)

Keeping his temper under control, Hayder tried to make Shahzaib understand. "Tum bohot galat kar rahe ho. Tumhe maine yeh sab toh nahi seekhaya tha. Aur kis baat ka gussa hai tumhe? Unse konsa tumhare sath koi commitment ki thi ya wada kiya tha jinse mukar gayi aur ab tumne ussey ana ka masla bana liya. Shahzaib, aisa na ho tumhare badle ki wajah se galat fehmi itni barh jaye ki mohabbat hi na bache."

(You are doing very wrong. This isn't what I taught you. And what are you angry about? It's not like she made any commitment or promise to you and then broke it, and now you've turned it into a matter of ego. Shahzaib, don't let your misunderstandings grow so much that love itself vanishes.)

Hayder didn't find it necessary to say anything further. Shahzaib was no longer a child whom Hayder could reprimand by scolding. Shahzaib is grown up, and now he would have to think about the consequences of his actions himself. Hayder told Kubra to go to her room and went to his own room. Now, he could only hope that Shahzaib would realize that what he was doing is wrong and that he wouldn't waste too much time like Hayder had.

•••

The next day, the house was bustling with activity as Ibtisham, Rafey, Uswa, and Shahzaib prepared to leave. Tabu was staying because Hyra's last month had started, and she wanted to be here when baby arrives.

Amid the chaos, Uswa and Rafey's voices could be heard over the commotion.

"Ab please tum India aney ki zidd mat karna, aise baar baar nahi aa sakte hum," Rafey told Uswa, as he put his suitcase in the lounge room.

(Now please don't insist on coming to India again and again, we can't come so frequently.)

Uswa, who was sitting on the sofa, rolled her eyes, "Aap mat ana, Hyra ke baby ke time main toh aungi."

(You don't come, but I will come when Hyra has her baby.)

Rafey's eyes widened in disbelief. "Uswa, Australia do gali chorhke nahi hai. Abhi hum Mohsin ke time aye the, ab Shahzaib ki shadi uppar se tumhe Hyra ke baby ke time bhi ana hai jo shayad 1 2 hafte mein ajaye."

(Uswa, Australia is not just a couple of streets away. We just came for Mohsin, now for Shahzaib's wedding, and now you want to come again when Hyra has her baby, which might be in 1 or 2 weeks.)

"Haan toh mujhse shadi karne se pehle apko sochna chahiye tha. Kar lete kisi Australian se shadi, na kehti woh roz roz India aney ko." Uswa had become emotional. Leaving India was always the hardest thing in the world for her, and it weighed heavily on her heart. Rafey knew this as well; after leaving, Uswa would be upset with him for weeks, repeatedly reminding him how he had taken her away from her family. But Rafey, being who he was, always managed to win her over.

(Then you should have thought about it before marrying me. You could have married someone from Australia who wouldn't ask to come to India repeatedly.)

"Ek toh mujhe shadi ke baad itni durr leke chale gaye, kya mujhe meri family yaad nahi ayegi? Uppar se keh rahe yaha aney ke liye dubara mat kehna."

(You took me so far away after marriage, don't you think I will miss my family? And now you're saying not to ask to come here again.)

"Maine aisa toh nahi kaha," Defensively, Rafey said.

(I didn't say that.)

"Toh kaisa kaha?"

(Then what did you say?)

Meanwhile, Shahzaib, determined to confront Zara, called her into their room. As she entered, he greeted her with a stern expression.

"Kubra se kya kaha hai tumne?" he demanded, his tone sharp. "Ab woh mere piche parh gayi hai ki uski dost ko maine upset kiya hai."

(What did you say to Kubra?)

(Now she's after me, saying that I upset her friend.)

Zara stood there, taken aback by his rudeness. "Maine Kubra se kuch bhi nahi kaha," After replying to Shahzaib, Zara turned to leave again, but before she could, Shahzaib stood between her and the door, not allowing her to leave.

(I didn't say anything to Kubra.)

"Meri baat abhi khatam nahi hui," In a very low but dangerous tone, Shahzaib spoke, leaving Zara staring at him with wide eyes.

(I'm not finished yet.)

"Kya kehna hai kaho, sunn rahi hoon." Zara stepped back and stood by the bed.

(Say what you want to say, I'm listening.)

"Problem kya hai tumhe?" Shahzaib followed her to the bed. Unwillingly, Zara had to look at him.

(What is your problem?)

"Mujhe kya problem hogi? Tumhe problem hai mujhse. Aaj kal toh aisa lag raha hai jaise har kisiko bas mujhse hi problem hai, har kisi ki baat sunne ke liye bas main hi bachi hoon. Jiska jo dil chahta hai akey sunake chala jata hai. Jiska jo dil chahta hai mere liye faisla le leta hai," Zara vented, and Shahzaib listened quietly.

(What problem would I have? You have a problem with me. These days, it feels like everyone has a problem with me. I'm the only one left to listen to everyone's issues. Whoever wants, comes and tells me whatever they feel like. Everyone makes decisions for me.)

"Main kaha tak sabki baatein bardasht karu? Sabki narazgi dekhu, sabko manau, main..." Zara's voice wavered, and she paused to catch her breath. More than anyone else's, Shahzaib's cold behaviour was causing her the most pain, but she couldn't openly express this to him.

(How long should I endure everyone's words, see everyone's displeasure, trying to please everyone, I...)

"Kab manaya tumne mujhe?" Shahzaib stepped closer, standing right in front of her. Zara, who was trying to hold back her tears with her head lowered, looked up at Shahzaib. "Ek baar manao toh,"

(When did you try to please me?)

(Try once.)

Zara was confused by Shahzaib's change in tone and didn't understand what he wanted.

"Tum..." Before Zara could say anything, Shahzaib took her hand and pulled her close to him.

(You...)

"Manao mujhe, yakeen mano main bohot jaldi maan jata hoon,"

(Please me, believe me, I get convinced very easily.)

"Tum kya keh rahe ho?" Zara question, trying to free her hand from him, but instead of leaving her, Shahzaib wrapped his arms around her and pulled her so close to him that now both of them could hear the loud thumping of each other's heart.

(What are you saying?)

"Yahi ki tum mujhe manao. Agar maine tumse apni narazgi zahir ki thi toh kya tum mujhe mana nahi sakti? Agar main tumse tumhare pyar ka bharosa chahta tha toh kya tum mujhe yakeen dehaani nahi de sakti?"

(Just that you should try to please me. If I expressed my displeasure to you, can't you try to make me happy? If I wanted assurance of your love, can't you give me that assurance?)

Zara truly didn't understand how to respond to Shahzaib's sudden change in behaviour. She had genuinely believed that Shahzaib no longer loved her, which is why he couldn't even bear to look at her.

"Main kya karti jab tumne mujhse kaha tum mujhse pyar nahi karte." Zara complained.

(What was I supposed to do when you told me you didn't love me?)

"Mera dimagh kharab hai jo maine tumse shadi ki hai? Mujhe tumse bas thora bharosa chahiye, Zara." Shahzaib said in a tone laced with love.

(Am I out of my mind for marrying you? I just need a little trust from you, Zara,)

"Main jau?" she asked nervously when she couldn't think of anything else to say.

(Shall I go?)

"Kaha jana hai? Naraz main ab bhi hoon, manao. Waise bhi safar mein kisiko khudse naraz nahi bhejte." Shahzaib, it seemed, wanted to leave with all their grievances resolved. He had understood Hayder's point: if resentment creeps into a relationship, it can destroy love, and he wanted to strengthen his love with Zara.

(Where do you want to go? I'm still upset, please me. Anyway, one doesn't send someone on a journey while they're upset.)

"Bahar sab kya soch rahe honge, itna kaam hai..." Zara kept her eyes down, unable to summon the courage to look at Shahzaib.

(What will everyone think outside? There's so much work...)

"Sab yahi soch rahe honge ki tum mujhe proper see off kar rahi ho."

(Everyone will think that you're giving me a proper send-off.)

"Shahzaib..." Zara's eyes widened with surprise. Just yesterday, she had been struggling to endure Shahzaib's cold behaviour, but now the warmth of his love was enveloping her, setting her heart ablaze.

Shahzaib roamed his hand gently over Zara's face, trying to draw out her feelings. "Haan, bolo," he whispered softly. Just then, a knock on the door interrupted them.

(Yes, tell me.)

"Shahzaib, Hyra ki tabiyat theek nahi, Hayder bhai ussey hospital leke gaye hain." Kubra said from the other side.

(Shahzaib, Hyra is not feeling well. Hayder bhai has taken her to the hospital.)

Leaving Zara, Shahzaib went to open the door, Zara walking just behind.

"Kya hua Hyra ko?" Worried, he asked.

(What happened to Hyra?)

Kubra shook her head, her face full of worry. "Pata nahi, Uswa ussey milne gayi thi, woh takleef mein thi, Hayder bhai aur Rafey ussey hospital leke gaye. Tum please mujhe aur aunty ko le chalo, ladies ka rehna zyada zaroori hai waha."

(I don't know, Uswa went to meet her, she was in pain, Hayder bhai and Rafey took her to the hospital. Please take me and Aunty there, it's more important for ladies to be there.)

•••

Hyra was going to the labour room, her face contorted with pain. She held Hayder's hand tightly, her grip showing her fear and vulnerability.

"Hayder, mujhe lagta hai main nahi bachungi." Hyra's voice trembled, tears streaming down her face.

(Hayder, I don't think I will survive.)

Hayder's heart stopped for a second, but he quickly put aside his worry to comfort her. "Kuch bhi mat bolo, kuch nahi hoga. You’ll be fine."

(Don't say such things. Nothing will happen.)

Hyra shook her head, her eyes filled with fear. "Nahi, mujhe bas pata hai main nahi bachungi. Hayder, aap promise kareind aap dusri shadi kar lenge aur khush rahenge."

(No, I just know that I won't survive. Hayder, promise me you will remarry and be happy.)

"Hyra," Unwillingly, a sternness crept into Hayder's voice. The atmosphere was already tense, and Hyra's condition had severely impacted his ability to think clearly. On top of that, this foolish girl was saying such things. Hayder felt his heart in his throat. "Kuch nahi hoga tumhe, tum aur baby dono bilkul theek ho, okay?"

(Nothing will happen to you. Both you and the baby will be absolutely fine, okay?) 

Hyra's pain and fear were almost unbearable to witness. "Dusri biwi achhi ho sakti hai par soteli ma achhi nahi hoti, aap baby ko Uswa ko de dijiyega." She hadn’t listened to Hayder at all.

(A second wife can be good, but a stepmother is never good. Give the baby to Uswa.)

With that, Hyra was wheeled away, leaving Hayder standing there, his heart heavy with worry and guilt. He couldn't bear the thought of losing her, and her words haunted him as he waited, praying for her and their baby's safety.

Soon, other family members arrived at the hospital: Tabu, Arzoo, Kubra, Hanif Mirza, and Shahzaib. The hospital allowed only two people on the floor, so Hayder and Arzoo remained while the others waited in the waiting room.

Rafey had to return home because Uswa kept calling him repeatedly. Uswa wanted to come to the hospital as well, but seeing the crowd there, Rafey convinced her to stay home and assured her that he would take her to the hospital immediately if any news came up.

Hayder paced back and forth, his worry for Hyra evident in his every movement. He hadn't spoken a word since they arrived, his mind too occupied with fear and prayers for Hyra and their unborn child.

Arzoo sat on a bench, her hands clasped tightly together as she prayed silently for her daughter and grandchild.

In the waiting area, Hanif Mirza looked at Shahzaib and asked worriedly. "Shahzaib, tumhari flight?"

(Shahzaib, your flight?)

Shahzaib, trying to keep his own anxiety at bay, attempted a feeble joke. "Shayad baby chahta hai uske chachu thore din aur ruke." he said with a faint smile.

(Maybe the baby wants his uncle to stay for a few more days.)

Kubra was on the phone with Azma.

"Nahi, abhi koi news nahi ayi,"

(No, there's no news yet.)

"Main Sarim ko bhej doon kya?" Azma asked worriedly, sensing the concern in Kubra's voice.

(Should I send Sarim?)

"Nahi, mom, already yaha kafi log hain. Rafey bhi iss wajah se ghar chala gaya. Ap fikar na karein Shahzaib hai."

(No, mom, there are already enough people here. Rafey also went home because of this. Don't worry, Shahzaib is here.)

"Kubra, beta tum apna bhi khayal rakhna. Initial days bohot nazuk hote hain." Azma advised, more concerned about Kubra and wanting to send Sarim so that he could look after her.

(Kubra, dear, take care of yourself too. The initial days are very delicate.)

"Mom, main theek hoon," Kubra reassured her. By then, Shahzaib had come over. She had been standing to the side while talking.

(Mom, I am fine.)

"Baith jao," Shahzaib mouthed, putting his arm around her shoulder and leading her to a bench, handing her a bottle of water. Kubra gave a faint smile, touched by his concern.

(Sit down.)

"Mom, aap fikar na karein, main bilkul theek hoon." Kubra reassured Azma once more before hanging up.

(Mom, don't worry, I am absolutely fine.)

"Kya keh rahi thi?" Shahzaib asked.

(What was she saying?)

"Yahi ki main apna bhi khayal rakhu," Kubra replied, and Shahzaib immediately got worried too.

(Just that I should take care of myself.)

"Kubra, tumhe wakai yaha nahi hona chahiye, main tumhe ghar drop kardu?"

(Kubra, you really shouldn't be here. Should I drop you home?)

"Nahi! Ab tum shuru mat ho jana." Kubra glared at him, making him fall silent.

(No! Don't start now.)

Hearing footsteps, they both looked up to see that Dawar and Uswa had also arrived.

"Kya hua kuch pata chala?" Uswa asked, approaching Kubra. Kubra shook her head.

(What happened, any news?)

"Uswa, tum kyu agayi? Tum log itni bheed kyu kar rahe ho hospital mein?" Tabu looked at Uswa with disapproval and asked. There were already so many people, and now Dawar and Uswa had come too.

(Uswa, why did you come? Why are you all crowding the hospital?)

"Aunty, ghar pe main aur pareshaan ho rahi thi, Rafey bhi nahi maan rahe the lane ke liye, lekin mujhe Hyra ki fikar thi." Uswa explained as she walked over to Tabu.

(Aunty, I was more worried at home. Rafey didn't agree to bring me, but I was worried about Hyra.)

"Yeh sab toh normal hai isme fikar karne wali koi baat nahi. Khamakha tum log darr rahe ho." Tabu's eyes softened as she tried to reassure Uswa.

(This is all normal. There's nothing to worry about. You all are scared for no reason.)

"Main uppar dekhke ata hoon," Dawar said to Shahzaib and went up.

(I'll go check upstairs.)

•••

Hayder was standing alone, Hyra's last sentence echoing in his mind. He couldn't even fathom the pain Hyra must be going through at that moment. Silently, he prayed to Allah for Hyra. She was the closest to his heart. Hyadet had entrusted her to Allah's protection, the safest place he could think of.

Dawar had sent Arzoo downstairs after comforting her, as she had been sitting there without eating or drinking anything. After reassuring her, Dawar came up to Hayder, who hadn't noticed his arrival until then.

"Hayder," Dawar called, placing a hand on his shoulder, and Hayder looked at him.

"Pareshaan mat ho, theek hoga sab," Dawar reassured him. Hayder couldn't say anything, simply nodding in response. What could he say to Dawar? At that moment, he was blaming himself for Hyra's suffering. He had made up his mind: whether it was a son or a daughter, this would be their only child. He couldn't bear to see Hyra in such pain again.

(Don't worry, everything will be fine.)

"Itna waqt kyu lag raha hai? Hayder finally spoke.

(Why is it taking so long?)

"Yaar, waqt lagta hai yeh sab itni jaldi nahi hota. Tum baith jao, tumhare kharhe rehne se jaldi jaldi nahi ho jayega sab." Dawar said. Having gone through this himself a few months ago, he understood what Hayder was feeling, but there was nothing they could do except wait.

(It takes time. These things don't happen quickly. Sit down, standing there won't make it happen any faster.)

•••

After what felt like an eternity to Hayder, a nurse finally emerged from the labour room.

"Congratulations, larka hua hai. Thore complications the but maa aur bachhe dono bohot strong the, aap baby se mil sakte hai—" the nurse began.

(Congratulations, it's a boy. There were some complications, but both the mother and baby were very strong. You can see the baby—)

"Hyra kaisi hai?" Hayder interrupted, his voice tight with anxiety.

(How is Hyra?)

The nurse was taken aback, and then she added. "Woh bhi theek hain. Kamzori aur thakan se behosh ho gayi hain but over all, she is fine."

(She is also fine. She fainted from weakness and fatigue, but overall, she is fine.)

Hayder let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. Hayder silently thanked Allah in his heart that this difficult time had passed and that his Hyra is fine.

"Kya main mil sakta hoon?"

(Can I see her?)

"Aap baby se mil sakte hain. Unki toh abhi dressing karni hai." The nurse continued, glancing towards the nursery.

(You can see the baby. She needs some dressing done.)

Arzoo, sensing his turmoil, gently urged him. "Hayder, Hyra theek hai. Tum jao apne bete se mil lo."

(Hayder, Hyra is fine. Go and meet your son.)

But Hayder shook his head. "Hyra ko hosh ajaye toh... tab mil lunga baby se." Hyra's last words had heavily impacted him, and the thought of facing their child alone was unbearable.

(I'll meet the baby when Hyra wakes up.)

Arzoo, understanding Hayder's feelings, placed a comforting hand on his arm.

She decided to see the baby herself. "Tab tak main apne nawase se mil leti hoon," she said softly and walked towards the nursery.

(Until then, I'll meet my grandson.)

Hayder remained in the hallway, his heart pounding with worry but slightly eased by the nurse's assurances. He couldn't wait to see Hyra, to reassure her and himself that everything was truly okay.

•••

When Hyra finally woke up, the family members understood that Hayder needed to see her first. They told him to go into the room alone.

As Hayder entered the room, he saw Hyra sitting on the bed, looking incredibly fragile. Her hair was tied in a messy bun, and she wore the hospital gown. The baby lay in a crib nearby.

Hayder approached slowly and sat beside her, reaching for her hand. Hayder felt a sense of peace settling within him.

Seeing Hayder, Hyra started crying and threw her arms around him, sobbing into his shoulder. Alarmed, Hayder held her tightly. "Arey, kya hua?"

(Hey, what happened?)

Between her hiccups, Hyra managed to say, "Hayder, yeh bohot mushkil tha,"

(Hayder, it was very difficult.)

Hayder's heart ached at her words. He gently stroked her back, trying to soothe her. "Janta hoon, issi liye toh maa ka maqaam itna aala hai Islam mein."

(I know, that's why a mother's status is so high in Islam.)

Hyra clung to him, her tears soaking his shirt. "Mujhe bohot darr lag raha tha, Hayder, mujhe lag raha tha main mar jaungi."

(I was very scared, Hayder, I felt like I would die.)

"Kuch nahi hua tumko, Hyra, ab tum please aisi baatein mat karo." Hayder cupped her face in his hands, wiping away her tears with his thumbs.

(Nothing happened to you, Hyra, please don't talk like that now.)

Hyra nodded, trying to compose herself. Hayder leaned in and kissed her head.

To distract Hyra, Hayder gently suggested, "Humare bete ko dekho, sab keh rahe hain mujhpe gaya hai..."

(Look at our son. Everyone is saying he looks like me...)

He stood up and carefully picked their baby boy from the crib. As he cradled the tiny bundle in his arms, both he and Hyra looked at their son for the first time. Hayder's gaze softened, and a smile spread across his face. "Mujhe lag raha hai tumpe gaya hai, nose dekho iski tumhari tarah hi hai. Tumhe kya lagta hai?" He again sat beside Hyra and asked.

(I think he looks like you. Look at his nose, it's just like yours. What do you think?)

Hyra nodded, her eyes filling with fresh tears, but these were tears of joy. Hayder then asked, "tum logi?"

(You want to hold him?)

Hesitant, Hyra looked at Hayder, making him chuckle softly. "Don't worry, tootega nahi,"

(Don't worry, he won't break.)

With a gentle and reassuring smile, Hayder handed their baby to Hyra. As soon as she held him in her arms, all her previous fears seemed to melt away. The baby nestled against her, and Hyra felt a surge of love and protectiveness like never before.

She gazed at her son, his tiny features, and his delicate fingers. All the pain, worry, and anxiety she'd experienced during labour now felt like a distant memory. In that moment, she realized that she could go through the same pain all over again for her son. It was all worth it.

"Yeh bohot cute hai." Hyra whispered, her voice full of awe.

(He is so cute.)

Hayder nodded, his eyes shining with pride and love. "Apni maa pe gaya."

(Just like his mother.)

As Hyra continued to gaze at their son, a sudden realization struck her. She looked up at Hayder with concern. "Maine toh Abeer socha tha larki ke liye, larke ka naam hi nahi socha."

(I had thought of Abeer for a girl, but I haven't thought of a name for a boy.)

"Hyzin Mirza kaisa rahega?" Gently stroking her hair, Hayder asked.

(How about Hyzin Mirza?)

A big smile spread across Hyra's face as she looked down at their baby. "Hyzin Mirza," she whispered softly, as if trying out the name.

The baby stirred slightly in her arms, and Hyra felt an overwhelming sense of love and joy. Looking back up at Hayder, she nodded her head.

Hyra then leaned her head against Hayder's shoulder, feeling a sense of completeness and contentment.

•••

Two days later, Mirza house was adorned with a vibrant array of flowers, their fragrance filling the air as the family prepared to welcome Hyra and Hyzin home. As soon as they arrived, a chorus of joyful greetings erupted, everyone eager to catch a glimpse of the newest family member.

The living room buzzed with excitement as family members gathered around Hyzin, cooing and marvelling at the baby’s tiny features. Amidst the bustling scene, Hayder sat beside Hyra on the couch, holding her hand.

Hanif Mirza, holding Hyzin with a proud smile, said, "Hayder, yeh mujhe ab tumse zyada azeez ho gaya hai." Hayder smiled in return. Knowing Hyzin already has everyone wrapped around his tiny finger.

(Hayder, he is more dear to me than you now.)

"Baba, main le loon?" Uswa asked, and Hanif Mirza gladly gave her Hyzin. Her eyes instantly lit up.

(Baba, can I have him?)

"Mera Dimpu," Uswa, unable to resist, leaned in to shower more affection on Hyzin's tiny face. "Yeh itna cute hai main na... main issey kha jau." She exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight.

(My Dimpu,)

(He is so cute, I feel like... I feel like eating him up.)

A three-days-old baby isn't supposed to be smiling enough for his dimple to show. But Uswa swore that she saw Hyzin's dimple. To her, he is her Dimpu.

"Uswa, lao mujhe do..." Arzoo said, extending her arms out. Reluctantly, Uswa had to give Hyzin away. With a sad face, she went and sat next to Rafey.

(Uswa, give him to me...)

"Main kabse keh raha hoon hum apna good news kar lete hain phir tum woh kisiko mat dena." Rafey whispered in her ear, his words drowned out by the commotion surrounding Hyzin.

(I've been saying we should have our own good news, then don't give him to anyone.)

"Choti mami, main le loon,"

(Aunt, can I hold him?)

"Yaar, ab mujhe do mere bhatije ko." Zara and Shahzaib both reached out simultaneously, then looked at each other. Arzoo smiled and placed Hyzin in Zara's lap since she hadn’t been able to visit the hospital to meet him and deserved the first turn. As Zara held Hyzin, she looked proudly at Shahzaib before showering the baby with affection.

(Come on, give him to me, my nephew.)

Shahzaib, with a broad grin, joined in. "Hum konsa alag hain jo alag alag pyar kare Hyzin se..." He spread his arm around Zara's shoulder and gently touched Hyzin's cheek. Zara blushed deeply at his gesture and moved away shyly.

(We aren't separate to show separate love to Hyzin...)

"Mere Mohsin ko bhi uske chote bhai se mila do," In Dawar's arms was his 7-month-old son, who was trying to grab Dawar's phone with his little hands. Shahzaib immediately lovingly took Mohsin in his arms and approached Zara again.

(Someone introduce my Mohsin to his little brother.)

"Dekho, Mohsin, tumse bhi chota insan." Shahzaib joked. Until yesterday, Mohsin was the smallest, but now, in front of Hyzin, he seemed big. Everyone chuckled at Shahzaib's remark.

(Look, Mohsin, even a smaller human than you,)

Little Mohsin also seemed interested in Hyzin as he leaned towards him.

Hyra watched all of this with teary eyes, seeing how many people loved her baby and how he had already become everyone's favourite. She looked at Hayder sitting beside her, who was watching everything, laughing openly at everyone's comments. Silently, Hyra thanked Allah for bestowing her with such happiness that she thought she didn't deserve. She had never thought she would have a husband who loved her so much, an in-law's family who gave her even more love than her own, and now such a precious child. No amount of gratitude to her Lord seemed enough.

As night settled in, Hayder gently rocked Hyzin in his arms. Hyzin spent the entire day in someone's arms, as no one wanted to let him go. And now, Hayder was walking around with his son, feeling an overwhelming desire to keep looking at his precious little boy. He was just so adorable.

"Mujhe toh abhi lag raha hai yeh tumpe gaya hai, iski ankhein dekhi hain tumne kitni badi hai... " Hayder was talking to Hyra as well. But he stopped talking when he saw Hyra not listening to him.

(I feel like he looks like you, have you seen his eyes, how big they are just like yours...)

Putting Hyzin in his cot, ensuring the baby was comfortable. Hayder walked to her and sat beside her.

"Hyra? Kya hua?"

(Hyra? What happened?)

She looked at him, her gaze shifting back to Hyzin momentarily before meeting his eyes. "Kya aap bhi Hyzin ko mujhse zyada pyar karte hain?" Her question hung in the air.

(Do you love Hyzin more than me?)

Hayder paused, understanding the weight of her words. He reached out, taking her hand in his. "Nahi," he said earnestly. "Meri yeh sari khushi tumse hai, Hyra. Tum nahi toh inn sab ka bhi koi matlab nahi. Tumse zyada main kisi se pyar nahi kar sakta."

(No,)

(All this happiness of mine is because of you, Hyra. Without you, none of this would mean anything. I can't love anyone more than you.)

A smile tugged at Hyra's lips, reassured by his words. She rested her head against his chest, feeling the warmth of his embrace. "Lekin main Hyzin ko apse zyada pyar karti hoon," she whispered playfully, making Hayder laugh.

(But I love Hyzin more than you.)

"Achha?" Hayder laughed at Hyra's playful remark and asked teasingly.

(Really?)

Smiling, Hyra lifted her head and shook it gently. Even her happiness is incomplete without Hayder. He's the one who gave her everything that she never imagined. It’s impossible for her to love anyone more than Hayder.

Hayder's heart swelled with affection as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer. "Hyra, I know it is too ealy but... mere khayal se humare liye Hyzin kafi hai." He whispered.

(Hyra, I know it's too early, but... I think Hyzin is enough for us.)

"Kya matlab?"

(What do you mean?)

"Main tumhe dubara iss takleef mein nahi dekh sakta." He told her seriously. He still hadn't forgotten Hyra's pain-filled face and her tears.

(I can't see you in this pain again.)

"Mujhe nahi chahiye ek baby, mujhe toh dherr sarey chahiye," Hyra said immediately. Until yesterday, she was terrified of having a baby. But Hyzin Mirza had erased his mother's fear by his arrival.

(I don't want just one baby, I want lots of babies.)

"Lekin, Hyra, tumne khud kaha yeh kitna mushkil tha—"

(But, Hyra, you said yourself how difficult this was—)

"Mere liye tha na, lekin maine bardasht kiya. Main phirse kar lungi. Mujhe ek baby nahi chahiye." Hyra said stubbornly. Hayder knew she wouldn't budge on this matter.

(It was difficult for me, but I endured it. I can endure it again. I don't want just one baby.)

"Theek hai, hum iss barey mein baad mein baat karenge." Hayder wanted to end the conversation. Besides, Hyra was still recovering, and maybe with time, she would realize herself that Hyzin is enough.

(Alright, we'll talk about it later.)

"Bas maine keh diya wahi hoga." Hyra said in bossy demeanour.

(No, I said it, so it will happen.)

"Theek hai, jo tum kahogi wahi hoga. Ab thora aram karlo." Hayder closed the topic and removed her specs off so she could rest now.

(Alright, whatever you say will happen.)

Hyra smiled at Hayder, feeling the warmth of his love and the joy of their little family. As they held each other close, a peaceful silence enveloped them, broken only by the soft breathing of their newborn son.

Outside, the night sky was filled with stars, a beautiful reminder of the vast universe and the infinite possibilities it held.

•••

Hyra had fallen asleep, and Hyzin was also peacefully sleeping in the cot, but Hayder couldn't sleep. He was looking at Hyra's sleeping figure, remembering a time when he believed his life was complete with just his siblings and grandfather. They were his world, and he thought that was enough.

But then Hyra came into his life, changing everything in ways he never anticipated. He thought back to the day they got married, how her presence slowly but surely warmed the corners of his heart he didn't even know were cold. She brought laughter, love, and an understanding that he had been missing.

Before Hyra, he couldn't have imagined the depth of love he now felt. He realized that her love had completed him in ways he never knew he needed. She had shown him that true happiness was not just about familial bonds but also about the partnership and companionship of a loving spouse.

Hyra, with her patience, kindness, and strength, had brought a light into his life that illuminated everything.

Hayder sighed contentedly, knowing that his life was infinitely better with Hyra by his side. He silently thanked Allah for bringing her into his life, for blessing him with a love so deep and pure.

Hayder pulled Hyra closer to himself and closed his eyes, feeling a different kind of peace today.

And so, their story continued, a tale of love, resilience, and the enduring bond of family. It was a journey of a lifetime, and they were ready to embrace every moment of it.

The End

•••

So yeah, this is the end 🥺 I... don't know what to say, I have lot to say but, right now I'm overwhelmed 😭 I'll see y'all in author's note,

-Ufaq